Portland, Oregon, USA

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Portland, Oregon

Welcome to Portland, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest! Known for its eclectic mix of culture, food, and outdoor activities, Portland is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to go, things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and other essential information to make your trip to Portland an unforgettable experience.

Places to Go

1. Pittock Mansion: A stunning French Renaissance-style chateau that offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.
   • Address: 3229 NW Pittock Dr
   • Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
2. Portland Japanese Garden: A serene oasis in the heart of the city, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and tranquil water features.
   • Address: 611 SW Kingston Ave
   • Hours: Daily, 9am-7pm (April-October), 9am-4pm (November-March)
3. Powell’s City of Books: The largest independent bookstore in the world, covering an entire city block with a vast selection of books and literature.
   • Address: 1005 W Burnside St
   • Hours: Daily, 9am-10pm
4. Voodoo Doughnut: A quirky and iconic doughnut shop famous for its creative flavors and toppings.
   • Address: 22 SW 3rd Ave (and multiple other locations)
   • Hours: Daily, 24/7
5. The Pearl District: An upscale shopping and dining area featuring high-end boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants.
   • Address: NW 10th Ave & NW 13th Ave
   • Hours: Vary by store

Activities

1. Hiking and Biking: Explore the city’s extensive network of parks, trails, and bike lanes, including the popular Forest Park and Waterfront Esplanade.
2. Food Carts: Visit one (or two, or three!) of Portland’s many food cart pods, offering a wide range of cuisines from around the world.
3. Coffee Culture: Experience the city’s renowned coffee scene at cafes like Stumptown Coffee Roasters and Coava Coffee Roasters.
4. Nightlife: Discover the vibrant nightlife in areas like the Pearl District, Old Town Chinatown, and Hawthorne Avenue.
5. Markets: Visit the Portland Saturday Market (March-November) or the PSU Farmers’ Market (year-round) for a taste of local culture.

Where to Eat

1. Grain & Gristle: A farm-to-table restaurant serving seasonal American cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting.
   • Address: 517 SE Morrison St
2. Lardo: A popular sandwich shop offering creative twists on classic dishes, using locally sourced ingredients.
   • Address: 1205 SE Division St
3. Cartlandia: A food cart pod featuring over 30 vendors serving everything from Mexican to Korean BBQ.
   • Address: 8145 SE 82nd Ave
4. Le Pigeon: An upscale French bistro with a focus on seasonal, organic ingredients and creative presentation.
   • Address: 738 E Burnside St
5. Po’ Boy Sandwich Shop: A casual eatery serving delicious Cajun-style po’ boys and other Creole-inspired dishes.
   • Address: 1634 SE Morrison St

Where to Stay

1. The Hotel Vintage Portland: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown, offering luxurious rooms and a rooftop bar.
   • Address: 422 SW Broadway
2. The Heathman Hotel: A historic hotel featuring elegant rooms, a fitness center, and a relaxing courtyard garden.
   • Address: 1001 SW Broadway
3. The Jupiter Hotel: A trendy boutique hotel located in the heart of the city’s arts district, offering comfortable rooms and a lively atmosphere.
   • Address: 737 E Burnside St
4. The Ace Hotel Portland: A stylish boutique hotel featuring luxurious rooms, a rooftop bar, and a lively lobby lounge.
   • Address: 1022 SW Stark St
5. Budget-friendly options like the Hostelling International Portland or the budget inn, Comfort Inn & Suites

Things to Know

1. Weather: Portland is known for its rainy climate, with an average of 154 rainy days per year. Be prepared!
2. Traffic: Portland’s streets can be congested, especially during rush hour.
3. Parking: Parking in the city can be challenging, especially in popular areas like the Pearl District and Old Town Chinatown.
4. Public Transportation: The Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon (TriMet) offers an extensive network of buses and light rail lines throughout the city.
5. Safety: As with any city, take normal precautions to ensure your safety, especially at night.

Transportation

1. Portland International Airport (PDX): Located about 20 minutes from downtown Portland.
   • Address: 9009 NE Airport Way
2. TriMet Bus and Light Rail: A convenient way to get around the city without a car.
3. Car Rental: Several companies have locations at PDX or throughout the city.
4. Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be aware that fares can add up quickly.
5. Walking and Cycling: Portland is very bike-friendly, with many dedicated bike lanes and paths.

Tips

1. Layer up: The weather in Portland can change rapidly, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.
2. Explore on foot: Take the time to explore neighborhoods like the Pearl District, Hawthorne Avenue, or the Alberta Arts District on foot.
3. Support local businesses: Consider shopping at independently owned stores and eating at family-owned restaurants to support the local economy.
4. Stay hydrated: Portland’s climate can be dry, so drink plenty of water throughout your visit.
5. Be prepared for crowds: Popular areas like the Pearl District or Old Town Chinatown can get crowded, especially on weekends.

Additional Information

1. Portland Visitor Information Center: A helpful resource for planning your trip and getting information about the city.
   • Address: 700 NW Davis St
2. TriMet Customer Service: For assistance with public transportation.
3. City of Portland Website: For more information about the city’s services, events, and attractions.
4. Portland Food Carts: A guide to the city’s many food cart pods and vendors.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Portland! From exploring iconic neighborhoods to enjoying delicious food and drink, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Happy travels!