Property
Travelers frequenting B&B’s often do so for the opportunity to observe a bit of their hosts in action. At Rosse Posse Acres, a working elk ranch with about 85 elk, there’s lots to see: the elk, the petting farm, the Ross daughters, and the family pet wallaby, “Tucker.” Proprietors Alan and Brenda Ross enjoy showing them all off, and invite you to feel like family during your stay.

Location
Rosse Posse is located in Molalla, OR, a rural area with a population of about 7,000. To get there, drive about an hour southeast of Portland. Near the farm is the Molalla River Corridor, which offers up lots of outdoor fun, including fishing, swimming, biking and kayaking, and horseback riding. You can also dive out of a plane with Skydive Oregon, Inc., if you need even more of an adrenaline rush.

Sleeps
2-4 in the single guest room of the B&B, which is on the first floor of the Ross’s 4,800 sq. ft., six-bedroom colonial house they built in 2004. The bedroom, with private adjoining bath, features a luxurious king bed, DSL connection, TV, telephone and alarm clock. The owners can roll in two cots for the kids, but don’t have a crib.

Highlights
Where else can you croon over a baby pet wallaby that loves to be swaddled in its blankie? But wait, there’s more! A petting zoo of pygmy goats, turkeys, bunnies, and chickens awaits in the barn. And if you feel so inclined, the Ross’s invite you to them assist with the farm’s daily chores: feeding the elk, grooming the miniature donkeys, even gathering eggs from the assorted hens. But when you’re ready to relax, count on there being a deck chair with your name on it, so situated as to offer awesome views of Mt. Hood.

Good to know
If you’re a smoker, expect to take it outside, as this is a smoke-free household. Just don’t try to get friendly with the elkherd beyond the fence while you’re out there, no matter how much bugling they do if you visit during the fall mating season. Be sure to stock up on elk meat and jerky when you leave, as the Ross’s sell it right off the farm.

Contact
www.rosseposseacres.com

Written by Sheri Bell-Rehwoldt

Property
The Inn at Northrup Station is a hip, all-suite boutique hotel that adds considerable funk to Portland’s trendy Nob Hill neighborhood.

Location
Situated on Portland’s Streetcar line, it’s a hop or jump to area theaters, shops, museums, and good eats. So take advantage of the hotel’s free onsite parking and traverse the city the way the locals do. The wheelchair-accessible streetcars are clean and bike-friendly, and welcome service animals.

Sleeps
Junior suites include two queen beds, executive suites include two king beds. Connecting rooms available. All suites feature two cable TVs, free Wifi access, and mini kitchen complete with fridge, microwave, dishwasher, and dishes.

Highlights
In a word, The Inn at Northrup Station is cool. From the artsy, colorful fixtures, furniture and carpeting, to the luxurious sheets, to the big glass jars of lollypops in the lobby, this home-away-from-home puts the “F” in fun.

Good to know
There’s no on-site restaurant, but the hotel serves up an ample continental breakfast that should please all. Think make-your-own waffles, pastries, yogurt, boxed cereals, fruit, even fresh juice. Be sure to get complimentary streetcar tickets from the front desk. Call hotel directly for best rates and theater upgrade packages.

Contact
www.northrupstation.com

Written by Sheri Bell-Rehwoldt