Curator’s statement
Stepping into Portland, Oregon, I'm immediately captivated by its commitment to sustainability, reflected in the green spaces, cycling-friendly streets and farm-to-table dining experiences. The city's artistic spirit shines through its independent shops, galleries and cultural events, making each corner a canvas of creativity. Whether I'm savoring locally roasted coffee or exploring the diverse food truck scene, Portland's harmonious blend of nature, culture and innovation leaves me with an unforgettable travel experience.
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Things to do in Portland
Nestled in the lush embrace of the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon, welcomes travelers with its distinct blend of natural beauty, quirky charm and an eclectic cultural scene. From its iconic food carts and artisanal coffee shops to its vibrant arts community and proximity to outdoor adventures, this travel guide invites you to discover the myriad of experiences waiting to unfold in the "City of Roses."
Explore Forest Park
Explore Forest Park, a sprawling urban oasis in Portland, Oregon, boasting a vast network of trails, abundant wildlife and lush greenery.
Admire the Historic Pittock Mansion
Admire the historic Pittock Mansion, an exquisite example of French Renaissance architecture, featuring 46 meticulously designed rooms and an impressive collection of antique furnishings.
Wine Tasting in Willamette Valley
Indulge in wine tasting in Willamette Valley, renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir wines and the perfect pairing of farm-to-table cuisine. It's a wine lover's paradise in the heart of Oregon's lush wine country.
Visit the Portland Art Museum
Visit the Portland Art Museum, a cultural gem that houses a diverse collection of artworks, with a particular emphasis on Native American art from the Pacific Northwest.
Spend the Day at Columbia River Gorge
A scenic reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, forests and mountains. Spend a day in the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, a natural haven boasting hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, lush forests and majestic mountains.
Indulge in Portland’s Best Sweets
Indulge in Portland's delectable sweets scene, featuring renowned spots like Salt and Straw for artisanal ice cream and Voodoo Doughnuts for whimsical and creative doughnut creations. It's a delightful journey for dessert enthusiasts.
Explore the Alberta Arts District
Explore the vibrant Alberta Arts District, celebrated for its captivating street art, art galleries and lively cultural scene.
Outdoor Adventures on Mount Hood
Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures on Mount Hood, where you can enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area. It's a year-round playground for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Hang out in Pioneer Courthouse Square
Hang out in Pioneer Courthouse Square, a vibrant community space in downtown Portland that serves as a hub for various events, gatherings and cultural activities.
Embark on a Food Tour of Portland
Embark on a flavorful adventure with a Food Tour of Portland, where you'll join a guided exploration of the city's diverse culinary scene, savoring a wide array of delicious dishes and discovering the unique flavors that make Portland a food lover's paradise.
Sample Portland’s Best Brews
Sample Portland's Best Brews and immerse yourself in the city's thriving craft beer culture, where you can enjoy a diverse selection of locally brewed beers, from IPAs to stouts, in a vibrant and friendly atmosphere.
Explore the haunted history of Portland
Delve into the eerie and intriguing past of Portland as you explore the haunted history of the city. Join a guided tour that unveils the paranormal tales and ghostly legends that lurk within its historic streets, offering a spine-tingling adventure for those seeking a different perspective on Portland's history.
Places to eat & drink in Portland
Kann
A much-anticipated restaurant by James Beard nominee Gregory Gourdet, offering a unique Haitian meets Pacific Northwest menu.
Langbaan/Phuket Café
Renowned for its Thai cuisine, this restaurant is a project of chef Akkapong Earl Ninsom, a James Beard Award nominee.
Berlu
Contemporary Vietnamese tasting menus by chef Vince Nguyen, a James Beard Awards semifinalist.
Republica
Located in Portland's Pearl District, this restaurant offers a Mexican-forward tasting menu and has received acclaim since its opening.
Lovely’s Fifty-Fifty
Known for its creative pizzas with toppings like foraged flowers and locally sourced ingredients.
Eem
Offers an exciting take on Thai barbecue, along with a variety of frozen cocktails.
Le Pigeon
This spot features innovative fine dining in a relaxed setting with a 5-course tasting menu by James Beard Award-winning chef Gabriel Rucker.
Luce
An Italian restaurant known for its excellent food and wine, housed in a small dining room without reservations.
Screen Door Portland
A Southern-inspired restaurant is famous for its mouthwatering comfort food and craft cocktails, located in a cozy dining space that embodies the welcoming spirit of the South.
Dirty Lettuce Portland
A chic vegan eatery celebrated for its innovative fusion cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, nestled in a bustling urban setting.
Portland's unique character, where sustainability meets creativity and nature coexists with urban flair, ensures an unforgettable journey. Whether you find yourself exploring the serene tranquility of Forest Park, savoring farm-to-table cuisine at local eateries, or immersing in the city's vibrant music and arts culture, Portland leaves an indelible mark on the heart of every traveler. So, pack your bags and explore the wonders of this Pacific gem, where every street corner holds the promise of a new adventure.
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, San Diego's Top Kid-Friendly Attractions and Eateries.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Portland.