What To Do In Portland Oregon
The hip, laid-back, friendly city of Portland, Oregon was once known as one of the most dangerous port cities in the world. Seedy saloons and bordellos have long since made way for art galleries and coffee shops, and now Portland is known as a vibrant city of art, music, culture and nature. With an eclectic nightlife, a multitude of parks and a thriving microbrewery scene, Portland has something to offer any visitor.
The Portland Japanese Garden is one of the largest and most beautiful Japanese gardens outside of Japan. It covers five and a half acres and is organized into five distinct sections. The gardens are designed to induce feelings of tranquility and harmony. The trees, ponds, bridges and rock gardens are a must-see.
Despite the name, the Portland Saturday Market is open both Saturday and Sunday. The arts and crafts market is located in Tom McCall Waterfront Park and is the largest continuously operating outdoor market. More than 400 artists sell their wares alongside food vendors. A trip to the Saturday Market is a perfect casual afternoon stroll.
Powell’s City of Books is considered by many to be the best bookstore in the world. Occupying an entire city block and offering more than 1.5 million books, Powell’s is filled with eclectic characters and obscure treasures. It is located in the Pearl District amid stylish boutiques, gift shops, galleries, restaurants and cafes.
As Portland is known as the City of Roses, no trip would be complete without a stop at the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park. The International Rose Test Garden is the oldest public rose test garden in the country and features more than 8,000 roses. For best results, visit in June when the roses are in full bloom.
Pioneer Courthouse Square is situated in the middle of downtown Portland and includes many interesting features and areas to sit, hang out or people watch. There is a cascading waterfall fountain, an outdoor chess table and an amphitheater. The square hosts many acclaimed food trucks and a daily farmer’s market.
In the Tualatin Mountains just west of downtown Portland stands Forest Park, one of the largest urban forest reserves in the nation. Forest Park encompasses more than 5,000 acres of lush greenery and ancient forests. More than 70 miles of hiking and walking trails cater to every ability level while offering scenic views of the Willamette River.
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry boasts a planetarium, a US Navy submarine and interactive educational displays. There are entertaining and educational exhibits for all ages about the environment, energy, health, engineering and technology. Just outside the museum, the USS Blueback is docked for visitors to climb aboard for guided tours.
The Portland Art Museum is the oldest museum in the Pacific Northwest. Its vast and varied collection includes Pacific Northwest art, English silver, Native American artifacts and Asian art. Perhaps the most notable piece is Cart With Black Ox by Vincent Van Gogh. For more information on Portland Oregon and what to do contact us today.