You can tell how well Portland is loved by the plethora of nicknames bestowed upon her: Rose City, City of Bridges, Portlandia and Beervana. Take at least one day to explore this friendly, energetic city that’s cradled between the Willamette and Columbia rivers.
Start in the Pearl District on the city’s west side, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind boutique shopping at stores like Made Here, Canoe, Radish Underground and Frances May. Don’t miss Powell’s City of Books, a labyrinthine book wonderland and the largest independent used and new bookstore in the world.
For lunch, hit the downtown food cart pods — there are more than 500 to choose from in town, serving cuisine from around the globe. Park yourself at Pioneer Courthouse Square — aka Portland’s living room — for excellent people-watching, then take a stroll across the Hawthorne Bridge to the Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade on the east side of the Willamette River.
Spend the afternoon exploring the Alberta neighborhood in North Portland — home to the Alberta Rose Theatre, Salt and Straw ice cream shop and a host of cafes, restaurants and shops.
This is part of an epic two-week road trip to see all of Oregon’s 7 Wonders. See Day 2 or view the full itinerary here.
