Hotel and Travel Information

Visa Information for International Participants

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Countries

Travelers from VWP countries must have a current Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and present an e-passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the United States. You may also apply for a visitor (B) visa if you prefer to do so or if you are not eligible for VWP travel.

Non-Visa Waiver Countries

We recommend that you apply for your visa at least three months in advance. Currently there is a mandatory security check period of 30 days for people whose passports are issued from several countries. U.S. consular offices now interview most applicants as part of the application process. Please ensure you arrive at the embassy with all required documentation at the time of your interview. Note that the ION does not intervene in U.S. State Department’s issuance of visas.

Conference attendees requesting a visa letter to attend a conference must:

  1. Submit the visa letter request form using the button below.
  2. Register and pay all conference registration fees BEFORE a letter of invitation will be sent.

Exemptions to this policy apply only to those authors whose papers have been accepted for presentation, company personnel working in the exhibit area or trade associated press.

If the attendee is unable to secure a visa, he/she will need to apply for a refund according to the printed refund rules of the event. Visa letter requests will only be reviewed AFTER you have submitted the visa letter request form for your desired conference.

Request a Letter of Invitation from ION

 

Arriving at Portland International Airport (PDX)

  • Portland International Airport (PDX), is the main airport serving the Portland metro area.
  • The Hilton Portland Downtown is approximately 12–15 miles from PDX

Travel from PDX to the Hotel

MAX Light Rail (Best Budget Option)

  • Direct service from PDX into downtown Portland
  • Runs on the Red Line
  • Station located on the lower level of the airport
  • Follow signs for “MAX Light Rail”
  • Get off at either:
    • Library/SW 9th Ave (closest walk), or
    • Pioneer Square North
    • Both are in the core downtown grid and an easy walk to the hotel.
  • Cost & time:
    • $2.80 per ride
    • 40–45 minutes to downtown
  • Official info & schedules:
    https://trimet.org/schedules/maxredline.htm 

Rideshare

  • After baggage claim, follow signs to the Transportation Plaza / Rideshare Pickup
  • Pickup is located in the designated rideshare zones in the parking garage (Level 1 area)
  • Request ride after collecting luggage
  • Follow airport signage or app instructions to assigned zone
  • Rideshare info:
    https://www.flypdx.com  

Taxi

  • Taxi stand located outside baggage claim (lower roadway)
  • Estimated cost to downtown is $35–$50 depending on traffic 

Pre-Booked Airport Shuttles

Passengers may arrange transportation from PDX with onsite shuttle and ground transportation companies. These are ideal for groups or guaranteed pickup.

Recommended providers:

Local Information

Powell’s City of Books

One of the largest independent bookstores in the world—an iconic Portland experience just minutes away.

Pearl District

A vibrant neighborhood filled with:

  • Restaurants & breweries
  • Art galleries
  • Boutique shopping
  • Converted industrial architecture

Waterfront Park & Willamette River

Perfect for a morning walk or evening unwind:

  • Riverfront paths
  • Views of downtown skyline
  • Seasonal cherry blossoms in spring

Portland Food Cart Scene

Portland is famous for its food cart pods:

  • Dozens of cuisines in one place
  • Fast lunch options near the hotel
  • Great for group dining flexibility

Weather

April in Portland is beautiful but variable.

Typical Conditions:

  • Highs: 55–65°F
  • Lows: 40–45°F
  • Expect: light rain showers and overcast skies mixed with occasional sunshine

What to Pack:

  • Light jacket or coat
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Umbrella or waterproof layer
  • Layers (weather can shift during the day)

Attendee Safety Guidelines

As a general rule, please use common sense when traveling to and attending the conference. If you need assistance at any time, please contact ION at 703-366-2723 or registration@ion.org.

Before the Event: Travel Safety Considerations

Venue Information: Keep the name, address, and contact information for your hotel and conference venue readily available.

Hilton Portland Downtown
921 SW Sixth Avenue
Portland, OR 97204

  • Share Travel Plans: Share your travel itinerary, lodging information, and emergency contact details with a family member or trusted friend.
  • Research Your Destination: Familiarize yourself with local laws, customs, transportation options, and available medical services.
  • Medication Management: Carry an adequate supply of prescription medications in your carry-on luggage.
  • Document Security: Make copies of important travel documents and store them separately from the originals.
  • Identification Protection: Keep identification and travel documents secure and separate from your wallet when possible.

Safety & Local Information

The conference hotel is located in the heart of downtown Portland, within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, cultural attractions, and public transportation.

As with any major urban area, attendees are encouraged to practice normal travel precautions:

  • Personal Belongings: Keep passports, wallets, laptops, mobile phones, and other valuables with you or secured at all times.
  • Vehicle Security: Do not leave luggage, computers, mobile devices, conference materials, or other valuables visible inside parked vehicles. Store items out of sight before arriving at your destination.
  • Conference Badge Security: Wear your conference badge only within conference and event spaces. Remove or conceal your badge when leaving the venue to avoid identifying yourself as a visitor or conference attendee.
  • Hotel Security: Do not write your hotel room number on your key holder, badge, or conference materials.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Be aware of your surroundings and familiarize yourself with the nearest exits and emergency procedures. Consider using a buddy system and exchange contact information with a colleague or fellow attendee.
  • Food & Beverage Safety: Do not leave beverages unattended or accept food or drinks from individuals you do not know.
  • Situational Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking after dark.
  • Walking Routes: Stay on well-lit, well-traveled streets.
  • Late-Night Transportation: Consider using rideshare services, taxis, or public transportation when traveling alone late at night.
  • Getting Assistance: If you need assistance, contact hotel staff, conference personnel, or local authorities.

What to Expect Downtown

Downtown Portland is a vibrant urban center that attracts visitors, residents, and business travelers throughout the year. Visitors may encounter individuals experiencing homelessness and, in some areas, visible encampments. These conditions are present in many major metropolitan areas and may be more noticeable in some locations than others.

The conference hotel and surrounding downtown business district regularly host conferences, meetings, and visitors. Attendees should follow standard urban travel practices, including remaining aware of their surroundings and using well-lit, populated routes when walking.

Emergency Information

Emergency: 911

Hilton Portland Downtown Front Desk: 503-226-1611

Nearest Hospital
OHSU Hospital
3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd
Portland, OR 97239
Emergency Department: 503-494-7551

Nearest Urgent Care
ZoomCare Pearl District
202 NW 13th Ave
Portland, OR 97209
Phone: 844-966-2273

 


Advancing Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT)

 

Contact Us

The Institute of Navigation
8551 Rixlew Lane, Suite 360
Manassas, VA 20109
Phone: 1-703-366-2723
Fax: 1-703-366-2724
Email: membership@ion.org

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