There are 2 "real" Marriotts and a slew of CYs, RIs, FFIs, etc. in the Portland area.

The Marriott City Center is newer to the Marriott family, and we have not stayed there. We've stayed at the Downtown Marriott and had fine experiences, including an upgrade to the Presidential Suite, during a summer Blues Festival in the park across the street. We loved sitting on our balcony and listening to the music. I don't recall much about the Concierge Lounge except that there is one.

What's best for you depends on what you want to do in Portland. Most of our business (at conventions) seems to be at the Doubletrees on Hayden Island, so downtown isn't a good location for us. There is a nice new Courtyard on the Columbia River 5 mins. or less from the Interstate, where we stayed two weeks ago. It worked great for us, but if you want to stroll around downtown after dinner, or want nightlife, it's not a good bet.

I would AVOID the FFI at the airport, which is really grungy. We moved out after one night last summer (one of those arrive at 3am body time deals) to the CY just down the road , where we got the same rate for a much nicer room and real breakfast in the restaurant. But there's no real reason to stay around the airport except when you get in really late or are leaving very early.

If you're into good beer, Portland is a wonderful place! There are scads of microbreweries.

And don't miss a chance to make the drive out the Columbia River Gorge at least to the Dalles - amazing scenery.

There are plenty of PDX FTers who could give you more extensive local info than I can. You might want to post a separate question on the travel forum (and hope! )

Have fun!