Sights in Portland
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Pittock Mansion
The grand Pittock Mansion was built in 1914 by Henry Pittock, who revitalized the Portland-based Oregonian newspaper. It's worth visiting the (free) grounds just to check out the spectacular views - bring a picnic.
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Oregon Museum of Science & Industry
The Oregon Museum of Science & Industry, which offers hands-on science exhibits for the whole age range. There's also an Omnimax theater, planetarium shows and a submarine tour (all separate charge).
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Oregon Zoo
Don't miss 'zoolights' during the holiday season, when the zoo becomes a winter wonderland filled with lit-up trees and animal figures. In summer there are concerts on the zoo's lawns. Parking costs $1.
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Classical Chinese Garden
The Classical Chinese Garden is a one-block haven of tranquillity, reflecting ponds and manicured greenery. Free tours are available with admission.
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Shanghai Tunnels
Running beneath Old Town's streets are the Shanghai Tunnels, a series of underground corridors through which, in the 1850s, unscrupulous people would kidnap or 'shanghai' drunken men and sell them to sea captains looking for indentured workers. Tours are available by appointment.
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Hoyt Arboretum
Prettiest in the fall, Hoyt Arboretum is home to more than 1000 species of native and exotic trees and has 12 miles of walking trails. There's also a popular zoo.
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Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Two-mile-long Tom McCall Waterfront Park flanks the west bank of the Willamette River, hosting summer festivals and concerts. The Salmon Street Springs Fountain swarms with frolicking kids in warm weather. Toward the north end of the park is the Japanese-American Historical Plaza, a memorial to Japanese Americans who were interned by the US government during WWII. Across the river is another great walking strip, the Eastbank Esplanade.
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Portland Building
In a downtown devoid of big skyscrapers, the city's signature structure is the emblematic Portland Building designed in 1980 by Michael Graves. A triumph of postmodernism to some but a mine of user unfriendliness to others, the 15-story block had the Neptune-like Portlandia statue added above the front door in 1985 representing the Goddess of Commerce.
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Velveteria
Truly unique is the Velveteria, a treasure trove full of stunning velvet paintings that will make you appreciate the art form; don't miss the 'nudes' room. It's run by a wacky couple who have been combing thrift stores and estate sales for years.
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Portland Art Museum
Excellent exhibits include Native American carvings, Asian and American art, and English silver. The museum also houses the Whitsell Auditorium, a first-rate theater that frequently screens rare or international films.
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Oregon Historical Society
The Oregon Historical Society has temporary exhibits and several objects from Oregon's history on permanent display, there's a research library and a bookstore.
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World Forestry Center
Next door to the Children's Museum, the World Forestry Center, offers similar experiences but with a woodsy twist. Parking is available at both venues for around US$1.
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Children's Museum
Parents can also seek solace at the nearby Children's Museum, a great place to keep kids busy with interesting learning activities and exhibits.
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International Rose Test Gardens
See Portland's famous blooms on show at the International Rose Test Gardens with 400 types of roses and good views.
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