Portland Oregon: What to Know About this Iconic West Coast City
With its astounding natural beauty and its many exciting attractions, Portland, Oregon is one of the most beloved cities in the entire West Coast. Home to vibrant art galleries, renowned breweries, and plenty of opportunities to explore nature, Portland is a paradise of sorts for anyone looking to experience a vibrant city life while also exploring the outdoors. Consider this your comprehensive guide to discovering all there is to know about Portland and its charming yet sometimes quirky culture.
Brief History of Portland
Located in Northern Oregon, Portland is the state’s largest city and one of the country’s most iconic West Coast destinations. It was founded in 1845 and was originally known as one of the foremost centers for trading and trade routes in the Pacific Northwest. Over the next 150 years or so, the city experienced tremendous growth and development, especially in the mid-1900s as it became a major shipping port. In modern times, Portland is known for its progressive culture and its growing popularity among millennials who are drawn to its culture, art, and technology scenes.
Portland Oregon’s Most Popular Attractions
One of the most remarkable things about Portland is its richness of attractions. From vibrant breweries to iconic parks and gardens, the city truly has something for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions you’ll definitely want to check out when you visit Portland:
- Portland Japanese Garden: Considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is a 12-acre haven of tranquility located in the heart of Washington Park. The garden is filled with a variety of plants from both Japan and the United States.
- Washington Park: At more than 400 acres, Washington Park is the largest park in Portland and boasts miles of trails for hiking and biking as well as a wide variety of gardens and attractions.
- Oregon Zoo: Spanning 64 acres, the Oregon Zoo is one of the country’s most beloved zoos and features over 2000 exotic creatures. Among its many unique exhibits is “Pacific Shores,” which showcases many marine creatures native to the Pacific Northwest.
- Columbia River Gorge: Located only 30 minutes outside of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Oregon. Visitors can explore its trails and take in its stunning scenery.
- Powell’s City of Books: Occupying an entire city block in downtown Portland, Powell’s City of Books is the largest independent bookstore in the world. With more than 68,000 square feet of books, it’s no wonder that Powell’s has become an essential part of any visit to Portland.
- The International Rose Test Garden: Situated within Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden boasts more than 7,000 varieties of roses from across the globe.
- Oregon Museum of Science and Industry: The ever-popular Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) offers visitors hands-on learning experiences with interactive exhibits across various themes. It also features a 3D IMAX theater.
- Portland Saturday Market: If shopping for unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods is on your agenda when visiting Portland, then be sure to check out the iconic Portland Saturday Market. Every Saturday throughout April through December, this outdoor market takes over much of downtown Portland near Waterfront Park.
And last but certainly not least is a unique experience that many consider an essential part of any visit to Portland: a Portland haunted history tour! Led by local tour guide Sara Eberlein, this popular tour brings you across some of Portland’s famously strange spots—including a few haunted ones—to explore everything from breweries to theaters along with some folkloric tales. Get ready to be spooked and also learn more about the strange history that can be found around Portland’s most iconic spots! To find out more or to book your tour, go here: Portland Oregon Haunted History Tour and Pub Crawl.
Enjoying Food & Drink in Portland
No trip to Portland would be complete without trying some of its celebrated food and drink offerings – from exciting global cuisines to unique craft beers and signature cocktails. Here are some must try spots for grabbing a bite or drink in the city:
- Maurice: Located in downtown Portland near Powell’s Books, Maurice has earned consistent praise from locals and visitors alike for its inventive New American cuisine. Be sure to try its divine carrot cake.
- Ataula: Ataula, founded by renowned Spanish chef José Chesa, proves that Spanish cooking can be as chic as it is hearty with its precise yet flavorful dishes. There are plenty of small plates available as well as an interesting selection of Basque wines.
- Tasty n Alder: With its focus on seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, Tasty n Alder offers Portlanders a chance to enjoy innovative American cuisine with a strong Pacific Northwest influence.
- Rainbow Tavern: This Northeast Portland spot offers guests a glimpse into classic tavern culture with its delicious bar eats, good beers on tap, lively conversations with strangers – plus movie nights on Thursdays.
- Rum Club: If you’re looking for a good time accompanied by a delicious rum cocktail, then Rum Club is the place to be. This monthly power hour takes over Hawthorne District’s ever popular Rum Club for a night.
- Loyal Legion: For lovers of craft beer and cider, Loyal Legion offers up over 100 different varieties each day! Whether you want to sip on something nostalgic or try something new and exciting, Loyal Legion has something for everyone.
- Hale Pele: Named after one of Hawaiian volcanoes, Hale Pele creates volcano inspired craft cocktails using careful molecular mixology techniques.
Exploring Nature Near Portland
Often heralded as one of America’s greenest cities due to its commitment to sustainability and protecting nature, it’s worth noting that there are plenty of nature spots to explore nearby as well. Here are some excellent nature spots near Portland:
- Multnomah Falls: Located about 20 miles outside downtown Portland or about 30 minutes away by car, Multnomah Falls is perhaps the most popular outdoor spot near Portland. The breathtaking 611-foot tall waterfall makes for an unforgettable sight.
- Mount Hood: At around 11,000 feet, Mount Hood is Oregon’s tallest peak and provides a breathtaking backdrop for any adventure around the area. There are plenty of ski slopes at Mount Hood Meadows as well as hikes if you’re up for exploring.
- Columbia River Gorge: The Columbia River Gorge separates Oregon from Washington as one of the country’s iconic natural wonders. There are plenty of trails around various parts of this majestic gorge for hiking enthusiasts.
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