Apartment

Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower

Photo gallery for Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower

A cozy living room with a wooden ceiling, a bookshelf, a television, and a door leading to a garden.
Property video
A kitchen with a sink, a coffee maker, and a window with curtains.
A building with a wooden porch, a door with glass panels, and a stack of firewood.
A rustic room with wooden shelves, a bed with a checkered bedspread, a map on the wall, and a hanging clothes rack.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
Set in the mountains, this apartment offers 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, accommodating 2 guests. It features a patio for outdoor enjoyment. Enjoy hiking, biking, and birdwatching in the vicinity, along with attractions like Roseway Theater and Glenhaven Park. The stay is pet-friendly.

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Private garden
    A rare find — relax in the peaceful, private garden space.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Internet
  • Breakfast available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Air-conditioning
  • Patio

Explore the area

View map
Portland, OR
  • Place, Glenhaven Park
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, The Grotto
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Rose City Golf Course
    ‪20 min walk‬
  • Airport, Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.)
    ‪8 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower


Grandpa's Bunkhouse is a stand-alone cabin in our backyard kitchen garden, and it really was our grandfather's. Expect pride of ownership from 3 generations, appointments that speak to family and Pacific Northwest history, and a homestay that is simply a cut above.

AMENITIES
-Kitchen w/ copper farm sink & compact range and refrigerator--We repurposed Grandpa's old-growth fir workbench for the counter
-Coffee maker with wear-ever filter
-Queen bed with linens from LL Bean
-Bathroom with 5-star tumbled stone shower, rain head, skylight
-Vaulted 14 foot yellow cedar ceiling
-French doors open out onto 4-season chem-free (organic) garden
-Mitsubishi mini-split for heating and ac
-Washer/Dryer
-Wireless internet
-Smart TV screen for your devices
-Sustainable chem-free gardens front, back, curbside
-Private covered porch with seating

Our grandparents bought the main house for their retirement, and it has been in the family since 1950. We have enjoyed hosting travelers since 2005 first in our daylight basement studio, Auntie's Hideaway (#724637), and since 2014 in our backyard cabin Grandpa's Bunkhouse (#594594).

We accept most dogs* & cats in Grandpa's Bunkhouse We do not host the following breeds: pit bull, Rottweiler, German shepherd. Also we do not host exotic pets.

Our pet guest fee is by the week. If you have more than one pet or will be staying move than a week please let us know when booking so VRBO can calculate.

We are fragrance free here and ask guests to use no air deodorizers or scented laundry products.

No flames in the studio: candles even if in jars, no smoking/vaping both in the studio and out in front of our home,

LOCATION OFF MAJOR BOULEVARD:
-Easy access to downtown (20 min), airport (10 min) and the Columbia River Gorge. We are 2 blocks off Sandy Blvd, one of Portland's major thoroughfares which makes getting around quite speedy.
-15 minutes from 3 of Portland's Eastside neighborhood districts: the Beaumont, Mississippi Avenue, and Alberta Arts

FELINE ALERT: We have a cat who roams the premises, so we cannot host travelers with allergies.

PARKING: Ample free street parking in front of our home.

BIKE PARKING: Secure (uncovered) tethering for bikes in the backyard.

INTERNATIONAL CREDIT CARDS: There is an additional charge for using international cards. Please inquire.

MORE INFORMATION ON OUR HOME AND NEIGHBORHOOD

We Johnson's are of the mind that life is art, and we've had this property since 1950. So whether you choose our more affordable lower level basement suite with galley and stunning shower (Auntie's Hideaway) or our lovely stand-alone backyard studio with vaulted ceilings (Grandpa's Bunkhouse), expect to walk into charm and history--as well as quality. We are of relatively humble means here, but what we do, we try to do right.

*The Grounds: This home is reminiscent of a Tuscan garden. Between the back beds and the front curbside gardens, your host Jean Johnson, grows much of the family's own organic produce year round.

A flower garden and fountain make for an inviting scene.

*The Neighborhood: We are 10 minutes from the airport and 20 to downtown. Also 3 of Portland's hip neighborhoods--The Beaumont, Alberta Arts, and Mississippi Avenue--are 15 minutes away. We're also on the east side of the city, where it's easy to hop on the freeway to the Columbia River Gorge, which is listed as a National Scenic Area.

We are in walking distance is Noodle Flat, where many of Portland's Asian restaurants line Sandy Boulevard--and Otto's Wood-Fired Pizza packs 'em in nightly. A major grocery is 3 blocks away, as is the historic Fairley's Pharmacy where you can sit at the lunch counter from the 1920s and order malteds made on the old fashion green machines. Annie's Doughnuts is just around the corner, and their fresh French crullers with maple icing are well worth the stroll. And for those interested in meditation, Dharma Rain Zen Center is 10 minutes by car, as is the Grotto.

Espresso and croissants worthy of Portland's food culture are also 10 minutes by car over at Grand Central Bakery as is Black Bird, an excellent unpretentious wine bar.

Our neighborhood is safe to jog in and walk at night. Families with young children grace our block.

Happy trails...We hope to see you soon.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Please do up your own dishes. Then just leave the key on the table. Finally, if you enjoyed your stay in Grandpa’s, please leave a few words of review. Happy trails. The Johnson House, Est 2005
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Tobacco smoking and vaping is not acceptable here, both inside the studio and outside in the yard or in front of our home.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number 14-240877-000-00-HO
Property # 594594vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Portland

Located in Northeast Portland, a neighbourhood in Portland, this apartment is in the mountains and by the sea. The Grotto and Hollywood Theater are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Experiment PDX and Glendoveer Golf Course. Check out an event or a game at Moda Center, and consider making time for Oregon Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed. Relax and indulge in the area's winery tours, or seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails, cycling and ecotours nearby.
Map
Portland, OR

What's nearby

  • Roseway Theater - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Glenhaven Park - 6 min walk - 0.5 km
  • The Grotto - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Wellington Park - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Rose City Golf Course - 20 min walk - 1.7 km

Getting around

  • Parkrose-Sumner Transit Center - 3 min drive
  • Portland Union Station - 20 min drive
  • Portland International Airport (PDX) - 6 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Cameo Cafe - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪My-O-My - ‬14 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower?

As of 26 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower on 30 Nov 2026 start from AU$366, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower located?

Located in Northeast Portland, this apartment building is 0.6 mi (1 km) from The Grotto and within 3 miles (5 km) of Hollywood Theater and Providence Portland Medical Center. Alberta Street and Mt Tabor Park are also within 3 miles (5 km). Parkrose-Sumner Transit Center is 24 minutes by foot and NE 82nd Avenue Station is 26 minutes.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 105 out of 118 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 118 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 118 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 118 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 118 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I stayed here with my cat somewhat last-minute. Jean was an incredible host with the cutest place I’ve ever stayed! I was nervous to stay somewhere on my own as a woman, but I always felt comfortable and safe here. And the shower is no joke, I could’ve stayed in there the whole trip!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Sept 2026
Ha! You make us laugh! But yes, that shower is the bees knees, isn't it? (And so glad you safe staying here.)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jean is a most excellent host. I actually back to Grandpa's Hideaway after a short absence. I would not hesitate to stay there again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2026
Nice to have you back again and glad you found Grandpa's just the thing.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very pleasant host. It's a cute place. The location is very walkable.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Aug 2026
Yes, you're right--Grandpa's does sell itself. Glad you enjoyed your stay with us.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about this place was amazing. Location is quiet and peaceful. Jean was so thoughtful in all the ways to make my stay here truly magical. I would 100% recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jean is simply the best host. Brought us flowers and tomatoes from her garden. Always makes this little place feel like home.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Aug 2026
Hosting your family is always a pleasure. And glad this time it was harvest so we had stuff to share. Come back any time.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very sweet place with an interesting family history and rustic touches. True to its description, including the 5 star shower. Lovely, peaceful garden. Flexible, friendly host. Was exactly what I needed including the location. Would come again. Thanks.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I loved Grandpa's Hideaway! It's exactly what it says it is...an urban cabin! But totally "modern " in terms of amenities. It had everything I needed..Jean is a most fantastic host. The best I've ever experienced in any VRBO I have ever stayed in.I will definitely be back and I recommend to friends......especially those traveling solo.
Stayed 15 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 23 July 2026
Grandpa's and the Johnson clan loved you too! Our welcome mat will always be out for you. Until then, fare thee well.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was fabulous! The place was adorable and had all the amenities!! Jean was a lovely host! I could live there!
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely quiet property with a wonderful host! She went above and beyond in several ways. I loved the water feature, garden and quiet environment. I would return to this oasis any time.
Stayed 9 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 May 2026
And you would be more than welcome to come stay with us again, Sandra. All best, The Johnson Family
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is one of the coziest places I’ve stayed! Jean is an amazing host and learning the story of how Grandpa’s spot came to be is a beautiful story! This spot has thoughtful character. The bed makes for an awesome night’s rest.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 May 2026
Lovely words, Carlie Jo! We're so pleased you resonated with our backyard cabin. All best, Jean & Family
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property is perfect for 1 or 2 people. The washer and dryer were nice to have. Everything we needed or could have wanted was there. We felt very safe being tucked back at the end of the driveway behind the gate. It was very close to the grocery store and other businesses, but yet we didn't get the feeling we were in a busy area. Jean was delightful and always willing to chat if we wanted to. We will stay here again if we ever get to Portland in the future.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 1 June 2026
Thanks for your nice review, Gordy. We're so glad that you folks enjoyed your stay in Grandpa's, and we'd be happy to welcome you back anytime. Jean & the Johnson Family.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay at Grandpa's Cabin was very welcoming and super cozy. It was quiet at night and the bed was comfy. The kitchen was just right and the copper sink was a thing of beauty! The shower was fabulous. Our communication with our host was excellent. Our dog was especially excited about the cool tile floor. Hope to revisit.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Apr 2026
Ditto here, Marcia! You folks were great down-to-earth guests, and our welcome will always be out for you in the future. Best, Jean & Family
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jean is a very friendly host, and Grandpa’s Cabin was clean and comfortable.
The outside of Grandpa’s Cabin
The kitchen - the lights are especially lovely.
Comfortable recliner with a reading lamp.
The bedroom area.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug 2025
Our family was glad to host you Susan and glad you found Grandpa's up to snuff. Indeed, we think we have a pretty nice Portland vibe around here. Wishing you happy trails.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful quiet place, amazing history and very welcoming and sweet host, would definitely recommend and also would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jean was wonderful and so knowledgeable about the area. We thoroughly enjoyed chatting with her, and the cabin was perfect for our stay! Great location, close to everything we wanted to do, super quiet, and very safe.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Oct 2025
Great to host you folks, Dorci, and so pleased you liked Grandpa's Bunkhouse. Cheers!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Enjoy the quaint atmosphere.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Aug 2025
We are glad you folks appreciated Grandpa's Bunkhouse, especially the mini-split that kept you cool during the hot spell.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean, adorable space in a picturesque garden setting. Loved this spot. The hostess was lovely. A great place to stay!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clear communication and clean accommodations. Within walking distance to good cafes and restaurants.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Oct 2025
We are glad you found Grandpa's Bunkhouse to your liking Lisa. On our side, we appreciated the nice care you took of our studio. Many thanks.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing weekend

We enjoyed our stay and was relaxing, definitely will stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Sept 2022
Delighted to host you Theresa. Do come back anytime. Jean Johnson & Family The Johnson House, Est 2005
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Grandpas is in the perfect spot. So much life and so much to do in the area. The neighborhood was beautiful as was the property. Jean is the sweetest person and made the whole experience such a joy.
Stayed 12 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2025
Ahh Sarah. So lovely to host you folks. Glad Grandpa's was a hit for you. Happy trails, Jean & Family
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

June visit

Beautiful surroundings! Nice neighborhood. The cabin was so cute and had all of the amenities we needed available. We had a great stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 July 2025
Hey Janet--thanks for the review. So pleased you folks enjoyed your stay here. It was our pleasure to host you. Jean & Family
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible Vibe!

Very relaxing! Loved the gardens and natural scents!
Stayed 11 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 July 2025
Yes, isn’t our star jasmine lovely in the evening!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute cabin in great location

Really enjoyed my overnight stay and had everything I needed. I really appreciate the ability to travel with my pup. The cabin was very clean, the garden is beautiful and Jean was a delightful host. Will definitely return when visiting friends again.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2025
Thanks for your great feedback, Joanne. We enjoyed hosting you and your furry pal. Our welcome mat is always out when you come this way again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Lovely!

Exactly as described but you have to experience it to fully appreciate this amazing place. This was the ideal home base for our Portland visit and Jean is a delightful host.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 July 2025
Pleased you enjoyed our little scene here, Julie. We think it’s pretty special too…nice yet kinda home-spuny. Best, Jean
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We very much enjoyed our stay at Grandpa’s cabin. It’s very quiet and private yet close to restaurants and shops. We found it to be tastefully decorated and had all the amenities we needed. Our hostess Jean went out of her way to accommodate us and make sure we had everything that we needed. Grandpa’s Cabin will definitely be at the top of our list for future visits to Portland.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Oct 2025
Thanks for your nice thoughts, Greg. The truth is: it takes two to tango and you folks were great guests. Come on back any time. Our welcome mat will be out for you.

About the host

Hosted by Jean Johnson

Host profile image
Host Background: Jean a retired educator & historian, four season chem-free (organic) gardener, and student of ballet & Argentine tango. A native Portlander, she has enjoyed hosting travelers since 2005, helping orient them to the city she knows and loves.

Johnson House Management: Jean Johnson is the host for this family business and lives on site. The Johnson brothers are silent partners and oversee policies and finances.

Why they chose this property

Our home is 2 blocks from Portland's major Sandy Boulevard. Here guests get the best of both worlds: A affordable place to come home to that is has plenty of free street parking and close proximity (15-20 minutes) to four of Portland's newest trendy neighborhoods and downtown. We, ourselves, are what we like to say: on the edge of trendy.

As a result, our family friendly hood is a place where we feel safe walking at night, has plenty of elbow room, and folks are down-to-earth Portlanders.

What makes this property unique

Jean's grandparents from Norway bought this bungalow new in 1950 for their retirement, and it's been in the family since. Expect an artful pride of ownership from three generations.

Indeed, this homestay is all about earthy, artful presentation--from the curbside gardens to the tumbled stone showers to family furnishings and appointments, and we like sharing our world with our guests.

Languages:

English

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