Need a place to put overflow visitors? Coming to Portland and wonder where to stay? Have I found a place for you.

Driving west on Northrup, this is what stopped me in my tracks. The palm trees were wrapped in burlap against the winter chill, then wound with strings of lights. I must remember to go back at night to see the full effect.

Once I got out of the car to snap a photo, I started noticing further detail. Looking down the sidewalk, you can see the line of palms with lush interplanting.

The signage at the entry is understated, but that is about the only subtle touch on this exuberant place.

See what I mean? These bright orange pots can’t help but lure the curious.

That would be me, of course. After this peek through the window, what choice had I but to go inside?

The collection of chairs in the morning room is nothing short of Seussian.

Many shapes, many colors, and a big bowl of colorful candy on each table. What a way to start the day with a smile.

The plantings are a masterful blend of hardy tropicals and hardier tropical-looking natives.

I am tempted to invite a bunch of out-of-town guests, just so we could avail ourselves of The Inn @ Northrup Station. Or maybe even book a staycation and spend a weekend there ourselves. We could take mass transit from the front door and do all the things we seem to put off until “some other day”.