Portland, Oregon is a vibrant and unique city located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Itʼs known for its quirky culture, incredible arts district, beautiful natural surroundings, diverse food scene, and eclectic shopping opportunities. A visit to Portland means plenty of things to see and do. Portland: It has everything that makes a location a true destination.
The Arts
Portlandʼs Alberta Arts District is one of the quirkiest cultural areas in the whole city. About 20 minutes outside downtown, Alberta Street offers a multitude of experiences you wonʼt find elsewhere in the city. You can grab a cocktail at a bar on the roof of a renovated vintage gas station — it doesnʼt get much quirkier than that! The district is a work of art in itself, with nearly every building graced with boldly painted, tasteful murals. The best art galleries in the district include the Blind Insect Gallery and the Alberta Street Gallery. For a blend of modern and traditional artworks, the Portland Art Museum (PAM) in downtown Portland on SW Park Avenue is an itinerary must. The museum is home to over 42,000 works of art, including infamous pieces by such recognizable artists as Rembrandt and Monet.
The Great Outdoors
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, Portland has no shortage of options. The city is surrounded by forests, mountains, and rivers, making it the perfect place for hiking, biking, and fishing. One popular destination is the Columbia River Gorge, which is just a short drive from the city and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape.
The Foodie Scene
Foodies will love Portland’s diverse and innovative food scene. The city is home to a wide variety of cuisines, including farm-to-table restaurants, food carts, and craft breweries. Portland is also known for its coffee culture, though, with many independent coffee shops scattered throughout the city, including Barista, which has multiple Portland locations including one in the Alberta Arts District.
The Shopping
For those interested in shopping, Portland has a number of unique and independent stores. The Pearl District is home to many galleries, boutiques, and artisan studios, while the Portland Saturday Market is a great place to find handmade crafts and locally made goods.
Overall, Portland is a charming and welcoming city that offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in art, the outdoors, food, or shopping, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see. Portland: It has everything that makes a location a true destination.