I should specify… Portland, Oregon. I’ve not yet made it to Portland, Maine but I’d love to see the beautiful Victorian homes and try some yummy blue crab one day! Another time…
Although the majority of Portland’s climate may be gray, those that live there are treated with the most beautiful summers: the landscape is lush and green, every outdoor activity imaginable is at your fingertips and the city comes alive with a new event nearly every week.
Spending a weekend in Oregon’s hippest city is a guaranteed good time!
WHERE TO STAY
Edgefield
You guys. Edgefield is SO RAD. If you haven’t stayed at a McMenamins hotel (they’re all super cooky!) Edgefield is by far the coolest one. With eight on property bars, multiple restaurants, an outdoor saltwater soaking pool, a 20-hole golf course, a full service spa and concerts on the weekend, this is basically an adult Disneyland. Stay in a private room or spend a bit less and stay in the hostel, this historic one-of-a-kind hotel is one of the most entertaining places I’ve ever stayed.
WHERE TO EAT
Being in such close proximity to rural farms, Portland is filled with fresh farm to table food. Menus are ever changing as the seasons come and go and the feeling of having a home cooked meal is present in many restaurants throughout the city.
Screen Door: This is one of the most popular brunch spots in town. Be prepared for a wait though! Even on weekdays this homey breakfast eatery has a line out the door. Definitely worth it 😉
Pine Street Market: This is Portland’s first food hall and one of my favorite spots to enjoy a meal. The market features nine of Portland’s best chefs and purveyors encompassing everything from Japanese food to Mediterranean food and not to mention an outstanding cup of coffee from Brass Bar.
Food Trucks: With a selection of over 600 food trucks, Portland has earned a reputation for best street food by more than one source. This is a great way to try your fair share of yummy food on a budget!
Voodoo Doughnuts: This odd doughnut shop has come a long way since it first popped up on the map. Voodoo Doughnuts has stores in four states but the original shop can be found in Portland. It may be a very popular tourist destination but when in Portland do as the Portlanders (real word?!) do! Try a maple bacon bar, dirty old bastard or the signature voodoo doll complete with a pretzel stake through the heart.
WHERE TO GO OUT
Portland is the home of craft beer and urban wineries. There’s no shortage of social spots to enjoy a beverage!
Bushwhackers: For bar food, beer and country line dancing, this is the place to be. They have free line dancing lessons Tuesday – Saturday at 7:30pm! Seriously, it’s a blast. Even if line dancing isn’t really your thing, it will be once you’ve visited Bushwhackers.
White Owl Social Club: A hip and trendy spot with yummy signature cocktails, craft beer and vegan goodies. They host movie nights, local bands, beer fests, bike shows and a slew of other fun events depending on when you pop in!
Breweries: Portland is arguably the brewery capital of the world. Depending on what you fancy, pop into a few of these craft beer hubs for a tasting or a tour. From Belgian to British and hoppy to sour, Portland has just about everything covered. Start with checking out Occidental Brewing Company, Royale Brewing and Kells Brewing.
WHAT TO DO
Powell’s City of Books
Welcome to one of my top five favorite bookstores in the world… Powell’s City of Books! It is the largest used and new bookstore in the world with nine color-coded rooms, 3500 sections and over one million books. There is something for everyone in this book jungle and allowing yourself to get lost here for a few hours is time well spent. Powell’s is a landmark and a must see when in Portland!
Portland Water Front
Take a stroll through Tom McCall Waterfront Park where you’ll find those jogging, skating, picnicking, children playing in the fountains and everyone enjoying the downtown riverfront view. This park is home to many events including the Portland Rose Festival, the Oregon Brewers Festival and the Waterfront Blues Festival.
Hiking
Nature defines Portland. Whether it’s a twelve mile hike in the Gorge or a leisurely stroll through the park, everyone is sure to take advantage of the golden months of summer in Oregon. If you’re looking for a challenging hike in the forest look at the many trails in the Columbia River Gorge. If you’re looking for something a bit more recreational there are numerous nature walks in the Portland area.
Wine Tasting
If you don’t mind venturing outside of the city a little bit then make your way over to Oregon wine country for some wine tasting. The Willamette Valley was awarded Wine Region of the Year in 2016. With more than 500 wineries, the Willamette valley has made a reputation for itself through its world-class pinot noir. If wine is your thing then take a day to let loose and enjoy some vino!
The cobble stone streets, great music, laid back attitude and eco-friendly lifestyle are some of the special qualities that make this city tick. Visiting Portland, Oregon is the ultimate relaxing getaway simply because the best things to do here are eat, socialize and enjoy the great outdoors. A city like this reminds us to enjoy the simple things and be mindful of our footprint. That’s where the real happiness is. 😉