The Lewis and Clark Expedition camped in the area now known as St. Helens on their way to the Pacific Ocean in 1805. However, it wasn't until the 1840s that the first permanent settlers arrived and established the community as a river port called Plymouth. Despite the early nod to the New England town, the community was soon renamed St. Helens for its magnificent view of Mount St. Helens. It was officially incorporated as a city in 1889.
Today, St. Helens is known for embracing the Halloween spirit during its month-long celebration of themed decorations and events, which help draw in numerous tourists each fall. St. Helens was also the filming location for Stephanie Meyer's “Twilight” movie adaptation, and it served as the backdrop for the 1998 Disney film “Halloweentown.”
Whatever your reasons for visiting St. Helens, it's important to find the right accommodations that allow you to immerse yourself in everything this wonderful community has to offer.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Saint Helens, OR?
Given St. Helens' penchant for all things Halloween, October is naturally the best time to visit. The city comes alive with events like “Spirit of Halloweentown,” Halloween trivia nights, haunted houses, the St. Helens Police Trunk or Treat, and Halloween Storytime. Even with so much happening around town leading up to Halloween, hotel rates are surprisingly affordable. Just be sure to book your room in advance, as area hotels tend to fill up during major events.
If you can't visit in the fall, spring is the next best season for exploring St. Helens. High temperatures hover around 60 degrees from late March through early May. Come prepared with extra layers though, as average lows dip down around 40 degrees at night.
Although summer attracts more crowds to the area, you can't beat the warm weather and endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors. Average highs only hit 82 degrees during the warmest month of August, with lows dipping into the mid-50s. If you're the type who avoids heat and humidity, St. Helens provides a pleasant summertime experience no matter which recreational activities you prefer.
There aren't many people who visit St. Helens during the winter, but thanks to rock-bottom hotel rates from November through early March, you might consider a wintry getaway to the Pacific Northwest. St. Helens only averages 2-inches of snow each year, but nearby Mount St. Helens is covered in it, creating an idyllic environment for winter hiking. There are also plenty of indoor attractions, shopping destinations, and dining establishments worth checking out if you need to head inside to warm up.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Saint Helens, OR:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Saint Helens, OR. Analyze these charts to calculate the best time to book a room in Saint Helens for your upcoming travels.
What About Luxury Hotels in Saint Helens, OR?
4 Star Average Prices: $138.56
Hoping to splurge on more upscale amenities during your trip to Oregon? You have a few great options
Best Western Woodland Inn places you close to Clark County Fairgrounds and Woodland Motocross Park. The comfortable guest rooms feature LCD TVs with satellite programming, well-lit desks, mini fridges, hair dryers, and toiletries. Free newspapers are also available upon request. Featured amenities at this hotel include a complimentary full breakfast, an indoor pool, a spa tub, a fitness center, a lobby fireplace, ticket assistance, and a 24-hour business center.
Holiday Inn Express Vancouver North Salmon Creek is an exceptional accommodation with a gorgeous indoor pool that might make it worth the extra drive to Saint Helens. Amenities include a spa tub, a fitness center, a 24-hour business center, free newspapers, laundry service, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Guest rooms feature 42-inch LCD TVs with cable, high-speed internet access, shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, work desks, mini fridges, and microwaves.
Best Western Plus Battle Ground Inn & Suites is a highly rated accommodation with a 24-hour business center, event facilities, a fitness center, an indoor pool, a spa tub, free Wi-Fi, and a TV in the lobby. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily. The spacious guest rooms feature 42-inch flat-screen TVs, satellite programming, mini fridges, microwaves, shower/tub combinations, designer toiletries, and hair dryers.
Are There Any Affordable Hotel Options Near Saint Helens, OR?
3 Star Average Prices: $129.32
Budget-minded travelers will be happy to know that St. Helens and surrounding communities have plenty of affordable accommodations to help you afford your getaway.
Motel 6 St. Helens OR is a no-frills roadside lodging with a friendly staff and plenty of parking. On-site amenities include a 24-hour front desk, an ATM, a meeting room, ticket assistance, complimentary wireless internet access, pool tables, and karaoke. The modest but modern guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs with cable programming, microwaves, workspaces, shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and toiletries.
Located about 5 miles from the center of St. Helens, Lewis River Inn in nearby Woodland is an affordable option worth considering. The highly rated inn features a garden and terrace, complimentary Wi-Fi, free newspapers, a 24-hour front desk, ample parking, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Guest rooms feature 40-inch flat-screen TVs, cable programming, coffee makers, mini fridges, microwaves, shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and toiletries. Pet-friendly rooms are also available.
If you don't mind staying a little farther out, book a room at Value Motel in Vancouver, Washington. Located within 10 minutes of Portland Expo Center, Value Motel offers a 24-hour front desk, designated smoking areas, a picnic area, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of on-site parking. The guest rooms are basic, but feature wood furnishings, showers or bathtubs, complimentary toiletries, and phones with free local calls. Microwaves and mini fridges are available upon request.
