Writer was hosted.
In the heart of Portland’s vibrant Alberta Arts District lies Cascada, the city’s first underground thermal springs and spa hotel. This adults-only retreat with its lush botanical and modern aesthetic offers a unique and upscale experience that creates the perfect environment to unwind and recharge.
Shortly after its opening in March 2025, I spent two days at Cascada, immersing myself in its accommodations, pools, spa services and the surrounding neighborhood.
Whether you’re a local wellness seeker or visiting Portland for a girlfriend getaway, here’s why you should plan time here!
Overview
Located 15 minutes from downtown Portland, Cascada boasts 100 guest rooms alongside five rejuvenating thermal pools, a sauna, steam room, full-service spa and fitness center. This self-care haven sits in the Alberta Arts District, a vibrant community where cultures and ethnicities mix to create unique, and walkable, venues for art, food, shopping and entertainment.
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Pros
- 5-Star Accommodations
- Amazing Spa and Thermal Bath Experience
- Amenity Rich Guest Rooms
- Magical Location
- Day Passes and Monthly Memberships (you don’t have to stay here to experience it)
- High Quality, Eco-Friendly Products (used in spa services and available to purchase)
- Safety First: all guests wear colored wristbands which provide controlled access to and within the property; safe neighborhood for wandering, even as a solo female
Cons
- Parking: street only until the parking garage is completed mid-2025
- Not Downtown: requires car, Uber or nearby public transportation
Amenities
Wellness Venues
Hotel guests have free access to all venues and are provided spa wear: slippers and turkish robes. Those not staying at the hotel can purchase day passes in blocks of 3 hours. All guests pay for specific fitness classes and spa services. Check the website for the most current pricing or to learn more about the monthly memberships.
- The Sanctuary: silent space with 3 vitality pools, a cold plunge, sauna, steam room and ice fountain
- The Conservatory: social space with 82-degree pool and day beds
- Secret Garden (coming summer 2025): outdoor thermal pool experience
- Fitness Center: gym with cardio and weights
- Additional Fees:
- Spa Services: massage, facials and couples treatments
- Fitness Classes: strength training, yoga and Pilates
What to Expect in The Sanctuary
Venture beneath the surface at Cascada to discover a haven of saunas, mineral thermal springs, and a range of soaking tubs. Tailor your experience for optimal wellness – a recommended detox sequence includes sauna, cool shower, and the warm ambient pool. The underground atmosphere is peaceful, with low lighting, gentle water features, and enforced silence. For guest privacy and undisturbed relaxation, cell phone use is not allowed.
The Sanctuary underground hydrothermal spa was really the highlight of my stay. During my two-night stay, I had only planned to use the space once, but ended up soaking after my flight (great cure for jetlag) and again the next evening. The baths of varying temperatures (thermal, hot, ambient and cold plunge) are a cure for aching muscles. The low light and enforced quiet truly allow you to decompress and relax.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Bring your own swimsuit and soak alone: while you can bring a companion to soak, the experience is best enjoyed solo to limit outside conversation.
Accommodations
These 5-star minimalist-designed guest rooms come outfitted with amenities you’d find in an apartment. You can choose from 3 room types: studio, suite with balcony and 2 bedroom suite. Rooms start at $324/night.
All rooms have:
- All-access pass to the thermal pools and gym
- Full service kitchenette including refrigerator, oven/microwave combo, dishwasher, coffee maker and a mini-bar with items from local purveyors
- Washer and dryer
- Organic wool-and-cotton all natural mattresses
- Bathroom with large rain shower or soaking tub and Cascada brand botanical body wash and shampoo
- Blackout curtains
- Big screen TV
- Safe to lock up valuables
- Free WiFi
Dining
Alberta Coffee on the first floor has the usual assortment of caffeine-inspired beverages and a cold case with buy-and-go snacks and sandwiches. Options include local favorites including protein pudding, Japanese egg salad and nutrient-rich beverages.
In-hotel dining currently includes two options, with a third restaurant planned when the Secret Garden opens:
- Alberta Coffee: Coffee, breakfast and a grab-and-go 24/7 case.
- Terra Mae: Buzzy main restaurant blending Portuguese and Japanese fusion dishes serving dinner Wednesday through Saturday evenings from 5pm. Reservations recommended.
Alberta Street has lots of walkable restaurants nearby. I enjoyed the food truck across from the hotel as well as Pine State Biscuits, a popular breakfast and lunch spot.
Getting There
The newly-renovated Portland International Airport is only 20 minutes away (4.3 miles) and Uber or Lyft service is readily available to and from the hotel.
Read More
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The post CASCADA: Portland’s Underground Wellness Wonder appeared first on She Buys Travel.
