Hello all,
I'm arriving in Portland, Oregon on 12-May and have 3 days. I'm absolutely sure that it's a beautiful place though not as popular as California or an LA. What are some of the experiences that will make it a memorable stay?
I'm a nature lover. I do hike/trek. I love food and would love to try different cuisines. What are some of the places that locals know and would highly recommend?
Many thanks in advance.
Portland is a pleasant city, and I think living there would be pretty good, however it's pretty low-key for the average tourist. Powell's Bookstore certainly, the Japanese Garden up in Washington Park, and a trip out to Astoria. But the best excursion is out to the Columbia River Gorge ... it's pretty spectacular in places.
If the weather is good and you have a car, I would spend most of your time outside of Portland. Like Ian already pointed out, its a very very pleasant city to live in (I lived really close to Portland for a year), but in terms of attractions it is rather low-key indeed. Besides the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood would be my "must see" destination and its lovely for hiking. And if like me you like Stephen King, visiting the Timberline lodge is a must.
Hello,
I am glad you are making over to see the beautiful city of Portland. I highly recommend the aerial tram ride and eating at one of the Food Trucks. My favorite is The Whole Bowl. They make the best veggie, rice and bean combos, extremely satisfying. When I am in Portland I like to walk around Downtown and visit the Pioneer Square. Sometimes the walk can be quite the hike, with all the hills and taking in the the sights of the inner city can be such an amazing experience. I hope whatever you choose to do, that you have a good time.
Thanks amandee210. Yes, it's surely helpful. I can already see myself munching at the food truck and taking long walks at dusk in and around the city.
That's very gracious of you Nathalie. Thanks for sharing all that info. My list of must-dos in Portland is getting longer. Any known jazz bars or clubs that you'd recommend?
East of Portland is the famous Bridge of the Gods @ Casade Locks. This toll bridge crosses the highly scenic Columbia River Gorge.
Yest, Astoria, is worth a visit if you have time. Many colorful houses and older longtime residents speak with a Finnish accent. Lewis and Clark National Historic Park with the recreated Fort Clatsop. Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Stroll on the Astoria Riverwalk. The Cathedral Tree Trail takes you to a Sitka spruce which you can walk into. Eat seafood.
McMinnville, located just south of Portland, is a college town which has a lively downtown.
Wow! Thanks for the info Jingili. What would be some good places to stay? Say $100-150 a night, central from the hub/downtown, easily accessible?
Yay yay!!! thanks so much QuiviraTrail2. Lots of info. I'm excited. Pl suggest some good places to stay, central, not much fuss, easily accessible. BTW does the city transit/ transport reliable? Saves time?
We stayed at the HI Portland Northwest Hostel in a private room ... it was close to town, felt more like a boutique hotels or guesthouse, and was within your price-range.