There’s just something different about traveling to the American West Coast. Coastal vibes, lush forests and a relaxed way of life give this area a truly distinctive cool factor. While most people think of California when picturing this region, Oregon equally embraces the west coast way of life. Salem is the capital of this beautiful state but, interestingly, it is not the biggest city. That title goes to The Rose City: Portland.

International Rose Test Garden, Portland

Portland, Oregon is a dynamic city that is a pleasure to explore for nature lovers, foodies and art enthusiasts. You will find countless activities across Portland year-round however, the best time to experience this city is in the dry season (approximately late May through September). Visiting during the remaining months is still enjoyable but you’ll see quite a bit more rain during the wet season (approximately October through early May).

I’ve traveled to this fun city multiple times and I seem to love it more each time I visit. To get the most authentic experience of Portland, read further for the places you cannot miss during your own Oregon adventure.

Portland Japanese Garden

The Portland Japanese Garden is a serene escape located in Washington Park, just minutes from the Downtown District. The park opened in 1967 as an authentic Japanese garden and has since developed into a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike. Features of the property include Japanese trees, water fountains and a traditional zen garden. Find tranquility as you wander along the walking paths and bridges. Enjoy the peaceful waterfall, known as Heavenly Falls, while colorful koi fish swim below in the Strolling Pond Garden.

Zen garden, Portland Japanese Garden

Portland Japanese Garden

International Rose Test Garden

Portland is known as The Rose City, and you’ll discover why after a visit to the International Rose Test Garden. Walking through this space feels as though you’ve wandered into a fairy tale. This beautiful property is truly enchanting and is as much of a delight to the eyes as it is the nose. The garden is home to more than 10,000 rose bushes and over 600 varieties. If there was ever a time to stop and smell the roses, now is that moment. Entry to the garden is free however the Portland Rose Society does accept donations to help maintain the park. In addition to the International Rose Test Garden, rose bushes are found all over the city and in the yards of Portland’s classic craftsman houses.

Powell’s City of Books

A trip to Portland must include a visit to the expansive Powell's City of Books. Powell’s is the largest independently owned bookstore in the world and really feels like a city of its own. The book collection at Powell’s is truly impressive and feels limitless. Both new and used books are available for purchase and there is also a cafe here so you can fully submerge in a good read. Be sure to visit the Rare Books Room before you leave!

The Rare Book Room, Powell’s City of Books

Powell’s City of Books

The Grotto

A short drive east away from downtown Portland will take you to The Grotto in the Madison South neighborhood. This outdoor sanctuary is a Catholic place of prayer but is open to all who seek a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. The property has over 60 acres of greenspace and is home to a chapel, gardens and an active monastery.

The Grotto, Portland

Providence Park

Nob Hill is a downtown neighborhood with great local restaurants and shops. It’s also the home of the Portland Timbers, Portland’s MLS soccer team. The stadium, Providence Park, has the perfect blend of hometown feel and professional team flare. If the Timbers are playing during your stay, book tickets to a game! It’s a great way to feel like a local. Before the match, grab a drink at Kells Brewery. This Portland institution is a short walk to the stadium and is where many Timbers fans gather before a match. You’ll find a variety of in-house brews at Kells as well as an expansive food menu.

Food Carts

Portland is home to many fine-dining restaurants but you’d be remiss to visit without experiencing the famous food cart scene. Across the city, you’ll find hubs of food carts serving eclectic fare from all over the world. One of best places to enjoy this casual dining experience is at Hawthorne Asylum in the Hawthorne District. Other highly reviewed food cart hubs include Cartopia (also in the Hawthorne District) and Hinterland Bar & Carts in Southeast Portland.

Ice Cream

The Rose City is also home to an abundance of local ice cream shops to satisfy your sweet tooth. The most famous of these is Salt & Straw which has multiple locations across the city and offers traditional ice cream flavors as well as unique flavors. A smaller ice cream shop worth a visit is Cloud City Ice Cream in Southeast Portland. Cloud City produces small-batch ice creams using local ingredients. For a unique Oregon treat, try the lemon black pepper marionberry jam ice cream.

Cathedral Park

Cathedral Park is a short drive north of downtown Portland and sits long the Willamette River. The most impressive feature of the park is St. Johns Bridge whose substructures have quite the cathedral-like design. In addition to the beauty of the bridge, you’ll find nature patches through the park that are home to local plants and gardens that support native pollinators. This is a peaceful place to sip a morning coffee, read a book or simply enjoy the surroundings.

Nature patch, Cathedral Park

Shop Local

Finding locally-crafted goods in a big city can often be challenging but in Portland, there are numerous artisan shops. Stores offering products from Oregon-based vendors include MadeHere, Amity Artisan Goods, and Tender Loving Empire. Another great way to explore local artisans is to visit the Portland Saturday Market. The market is held on every Saturday along the scenic Willamette River.

Portland Microbreweries

Hopworks Brewery - Powell Mothership, Portland

Finally, make a toast to your excellent adventure at one of the city’s microbreweries. In addition to world-class wine, Oregon has a very impressive microbrewery scene. There are over 80 of these local establishments in the Portland area. Hopworks Brewery - Powell Mothership is an excellent choice for locally brewed beer crafted sustainably. Purchase beer by the glass or order a flight to try a variety of their brews. For a snack, try the Beer Time Pretzels with beer cheese. You can also partake in axe-throwing at Hopworks if you’re looking for a fun challenge.

Bon Voyage!

Welcome to the City of Roses: Portland, Oregon

Portland Japanese Garden

International Rose Test Garden

Powell’s City of Books

The Grotto

Providence Park

Food Carts

Ice Cream

Cathedral Park

Shop Local

Portland Microbreweries

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