Portland Unveiled: A Traveler's Guide to the City of Roses

Advisor - Gillian Spatz
Curated By

Gillian Spatz

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  • Portland, Oregon

  • Arts & Culture

  • Active Travel

  • Outdoors

  • Green Spaces

  • Local Culture

Multnomah Falls in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge
Curator’s statement

Stepping into Portland, Oregon, I'm immediately captivated by its commitment to sustainability, reflected in the green spaces, cycling-friendly streets and farm-to-table dining experiences. The city's artistic spirit shines through its independent shops, galleries and cultural events, making each corner a canvas of creativity. Whether I'm savoring locally roasted coffee or exploring the diverse food truck scene, Portland's harmonious blend of nature, culture and innovation leaves me with an unforgettable travel experience.

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Where to stay in Portland

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The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection

In the heart of Portland, Maine, this historic hotel features a fun newspaper-theme with rooms and suites styled as writer's offices.

Fora Perks
  • $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • Welcome amenity.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel

Just 10 minutes from all the downtown sights, this riverside hotel offers a peaceful stay and a waterfront restaurant.

Fora Perks
  • $50 hotel / resort credit.

  • Welcome amenities.

  • Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.

The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland

Your heart-of-the-action pick in Portland, with a statement atrium lobby and farm-to-table restaurant.

Fora Perks
  • $100 food / beverage credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

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Things to do in Portland

The Pittock Mansion is a French Renaissance-style château.

Nestled in the lush embrace of the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon, welcomes travelers with its distinct blend of natural beauty, quirky charm and an eclectic cultural scene. From its iconic food carts and artisanal coffee shops to its vibrant arts community and proximity to outdoor adventures, this travel guide invites you to discover the myriad of experiences waiting to unfold in the "City of Roses."

Explore Forest Park

Explore Forest Park, a sprawling urban oasis in Portland, Oregon, boasting a vast network of trails, abundant wildlife and lush greenery.

Admire the Historic Pittock Mansion

Admire the historic Pittock Mansion, an exquisite example of French Renaissance architecture, featuring 46 meticulously designed rooms and an impressive collection of antique furnishings.

Wine Tasting in Willamette Valley

Indulge in wine tasting in Willamette Valley, renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir wines and the perfect pairing of farm-to-table cuisine. It's a wine lover's paradise in the heart of Oregon's lush wine country.

Visit the Portland Art Museum

Visit the Portland Art Museum, a cultural gem that houses a diverse collection of artworks, with a particular emphasis on Native American art from the Pacific Northwest.

Spend the Day at Columbia River Gorge

A scenic reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, forests and mountains​​. Spend a day in the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, a natural haven boasting hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, lush forests and majestic mountains.

Indulge in Portland’s Best Sweets

Indulge in Portland's delectable sweets scene, featuring renowned spots like Salt and Straw for artisanal ice cream and Voodoo Doughnuts for whimsical and creative doughnut creations. It's a delightful journey for dessert enthusiasts.

Explore the Alberta Arts District

Explore the vibrant Alberta Arts District, celebrated for its captivating street art, art galleries and lively cultural scene.

Outdoor Adventures on Mount Hood

Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures on Mount Hood, where you can enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area. It's a year-round playground for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Hang out in Pioneer Courthouse Square

Hang out in Pioneer Courthouse Square, a vibrant community space in downtown Portland that serves as a hub for various events, gatherings and cultural activities.

Embark on a Food Tour of Portland

Embark on a flavorful adventure with a Food Tour of Portland, where you'll join a guided exploration of the city's diverse culinary scene, savoring a wide array of delicious dishes and discovering the unique flavors that make Portland a food lover's paradise.

Sample Portland’s Best Brews

Sample Portland's Best Brews and immerse yourself in the city's thriving craft beer culture, where you can enjoy a diverse selection of locally brewed beers, from IPAs to stouts, in a vibrant and friendly atmosphere.

Explore the haunted history of Portland

Delve into the eerie and intriguing past of Portland as you explore the haunted history of the city. Join a guided tour that unveils the paranormal tales and ghostly legends that lurk within its historic streets, offering a spine-tingling adventure for those seeking a different perspective on Portland's history.

Places to eat & drink in Portland

Petite, low-key Italian restaurant and grocery serving housemade pastas & seasonal entrees.

Kann
A much-anticipated restaurant by James Beard nominee Gregory Gourdet, offering a unique Haitian meets Pacific Northwest menu.

Langbaan/Phuket Café
Renowned for its Thai cuisine, this restaurant is a project of chef Akkapong Earl Ninsom, a James Beard Award nominee.

Berlu
Contemporary Vietnamese tasting menus by chef Vince Nguyen, a James Beard Awards semifinalist.

Republica
Located in Portland's Pearl District, this restaurant offers a Mexican-forward tasting menu and has received acclaim since its opening.

Lovely’s Fifty-Fifty
Known for its creative pizzas with toppings like foraged flowers and locally sourced ingredients.

Eem
Offers an exciting take on Thai barbecue, along with a variety of frozen cocktails.

Le Pigeon
This spot features innovative fine dining in a relaxed setting with a 5-course tasting menu by James Beard Award-winning chef Gabriel Rucker.

Luce
An Italian restaurant known for its excellent food and wine, housed in a small dining room without reservations.

Screen Door Portland
A Southern-inspired restaurant is famous for its mouthwatering comfort food and craft cocktails, located in a cozy dining space that embodies the welcoming spirit of the South.

Dirty Lettuce Portland
A chic vegan eatery celebrated for its innovative fusion cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, nestled in a bustling urban setting.

Portland's unique character, where sustainability meets creativity and nature coexists with urban flair, ensures an unforgettable journey. Whether you find yourself exploring the serene tranquility of Forest Park, savoring farm-to-table cuisine at local eateries, or immersing in the city's vibrant music and arts culture, Portland leaves an indelible mark on the heart of every traveler. So, pack your bags and explore the wonders of this Pacific gem, where every street corner holds the promise of a new adventure.

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, San Diego's Top Kid-Friendly Attractions and Eateries. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Portland.



Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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