City Center is more centrally located, and close to great mass transit as well as lots of places to walk to. However, the other hotel has a nice view of the river and, on that rare clear day, Mt. Hood et al.

Definitely agree about taking a trip out the Gorge, not necessarily all the way to The Dalles, but at least to Multnomah Falls. Take the old highway (rather than I84) at least one way for some great scenery. Just keep going East on Stark street for downtown, and follow the road.Then take I 84 back to Portland. In the other direction, you can get from the Marriott to the ocean (Cannon Beach or Seaside) in a bit over an hour. Just head West on Sunset Hwy ( featured in an Ann Rule book and movie).