Portland is the ideal destination for travelers looking for a unique Pacific Northwest getaway. Oregon's most populated city has over 600,000 residents and covers 145 square miles. The city features an eclectic collection of restaurants, art galleries, museums, breweries, coffee shops, and more.
Portland is the ideal destination for travelers in search of a unique Pacific Northwest getaway. Oregon's most populated city (609,456) covers 145 square miles and features an eclectic collection of restaurants, art galleries, museums, breweries, coffee shops, and more. The city is also home to the Trail Blazers (NBA) and Timbers (MLS) for sports fans and a captivating nightlife atmosphere that’s perfect for couples and those looking for a good time. Let’s take a look at some other features that make Portland a great option for your next Oregon vacation.
Gardens and Parks
Washington Park is the signature park of Portland, and it offers something for every visitor. It’s located two miles west of downtown and covers more than 159 acres. The park home to major attractions such as the Portland Zoo, Portland Children's Museum, Hoyt Arboretum, World Forestry Center and more.
The Portland Japanese Garden is commonly considered the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of the country of Japan itself. The garden covers more than five acres in the West Hill Neighborhood and features different themed gardens including Flat, Tea, Sand and Stone, Strolling Pond, and Natural.
Forest Park offers visitors the chance to experience the lush wilderness of rural Oregon, without leaving the city limits. It’s located about five miles Northwest of downtown and sprawls out over 5,100 acres. Visitors will have access to over 40 miles of trails that showcase the park's abundant wildlife and vegetation.
Restaurants
OX was rated as the Top Restaurant in Portland by The Oregonian in 2013. It's an Argentinean-inspired grill that serves everything from Cocoa Braised Lamb Shoulder to Squid and Octopus Salad. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it's located downtown in the Eliot Neighborhood.
Imperial is a dining establishment that embodies classic Northwestern culinary traditions combined with owner/chef Vitaly Paley’s personal touch. The menu features dishes such as the 50-Day Dry Aged T-Bone and Water Buffalo Short Rib. It’s found in the historic Hotel Lucia, which is located in the heart of downtown.
Ava Gene’s was named one of the Top New Restaurants in America by bon appetit in 2013. It offers a unique take on traditional Italian food, in a venue with a rock and roll inspired atmosphere. The selection of meals ranges from vegan salads with pumpkin, pecans, currants, and brown butter to pork steak with salsa.
Attractions
Pioneer Courthouse Square is a park located in the heart of downtown. It’s home to over 300 events annually, and commonly referred to as the city’s “living room.” The events at the square include Food Truck February's (held each month), Monday’s on the Mall, and more.
The Portland Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest, having opened its doors in 1892. It features over 111,000 square feet of galleries, which contain 42,000 objects. Attendees will find a variety artwork from all over the word, with the museum specializing in Native American pieces, English silver, and graphic arts.
The Portland Saturday Market is a weekly, open-air market that has been a staple of the community for over 40 years. It consists of 252 booths and over 350 artisans, who sell handmade art, trinkets, foods, clothing, furnishings, and more. The market is located on the River Walk in the historic Old China/Chinatown neighborhood.