Portland by a Local: The Ultimate Guide to Portland, Oregon

Eat

Portland is home to an assortment of nationally awarded restaurants that offer creativity, diversity, and locally sourced ingredients. Beyond the restaurants with accolades are unpretentious eateries and food trucks that serve up just about any type of food you could imagine with tons of flavor and a low price tag.

Drink

Whether you prefer your drinks in a chic setting or a dingy dive, Portland’s got you covered. Portland has tons of unique bars that offer well-made cocktails and a strong offering of mocktails so those who don’t partake can have just as much fun. Try Scotch Lodge if you want chic and Low Brow Lounge if you want divey.

Get outdoors

Within an hour’s drive of Portland are hundreds of hiking trails and a multitude of cascading waterfalls, climbing spots, and water sports. The nature of the Pacific Northwest has something to offer anyone who visits. Of note, Portland’s summers are absolutely gorgeous and are made for lazy afternoons floating the Clackamas River.

Thrift

There’s a killer thrift scene in Portland. Vintage and thrift shops abound, offering everything from unique furniture to collectible antiques and stylish vintage clothing finds. For those who like to browse, check out Memory Den Vintage Mall in Southeast Portland.

Experience culture

Spend a day enjoying the Portland Art Museum or the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry—especially the latter if you have kiddos. Catch a Broadway show at the Keller Auditorium, or if you’re visiting in the summer months, visit the Portland International Rose Test Garden to see 10,000 rose bushes in full bloom.

Lovely’s Fifty Fifty

Artisanal wood-fired pizza and ice cream in a lively and inviting atmosphere. A family-owned pizza joint that sources ingredients locally. Try their mint ice cream for a refreshing treat!

Burrito Azteca

For those who don’t mind a restaurant with a humble facade, Burrito Azteca dishes up some of the most authentic, cheap, and delicious Mexican food in town. Try their super Azteca burrito, which includes cheese-stuffed poblano peppers—holy moly, it is delicious.

Jinju Patisserie

A locally owned and nationally recognized pastry delicatessen offering croissants, giftable chocolates, and other beautiful creations. I recommend their ham and cheese croissant—it’s to die for. Grab a coffee and expect a wait here—there’s usually a line.

Ox Restaurant

Chic and romantic, Ox dishes up Northwestern food with Argentinean flair. Perfect for a date or precursor to a night out on the town.

Huber’s Cafe

A stylish American café that’s been serving Portlanders since 1879. It’s Portland’s oldest restaurant and is known for its flaming table-side Spanish coffees.