Questions for Portlanders - Downtown lodging, dogs, and Keller Auditorium (The Shins!)

It’s the last minute and I’m thinking about making a mid-week trip to Portland to see The Shins. I almost have to, since my boss saw them Saturday in Seattle and was sufficiently blown away to be strongly suggestive that I take time off work and make it happen.

Believe it or not, I’ve never been to Portland. (Well ok, except for that work-related convention where I was stuck in a hotel by the airport with no car, but that hardly counts.) I’m not sure I can find anywhere to put my dog on short notice so I may end up taking him with me. I’m thinking about getting into Portland Wed. afternoon, seeing the Shins Wed. night and staying over to wander around for a few hours Thursday before heading back.

I’d prefer to stay somewhere close enough to Keller that I can walk and don’t have to worry about getting there and parking. Dog friendly is a plus (if not a requirement, but I don’t know for certain yet), and reasonably priced is also good.

Suggestions?

Additionally, assuming I’m stuck purchasing tickets in a block of two - do any Dopers want to see The Shins Wed. night? I had my eye on a set that were dead center, 3 rows back in the orchestra section. They were just over $150 for the pair.