Let's get weird in Portland! :)
Portland is a fun destination within the Pacific Northwest. It is packed with delicious food, interesting sights, beautiful scenery, and great entertainment! We have spend many weekends exploring this city, and have comprised this list of 15 things to do in Portland (in no particular order... they are all awesome)!
1) Munch on some unique donuts from Voodoo Donuts!
We visit this cash-only establishment every time we visit Portland... It simply doesn't get old because 'good things come in pink boxes' :)
2) Gorge yourself in a scrumptious brunch at the Tin Shed or Tasty n' Sons.
Restaurants in Portland know how to make a tasty brunch! We can definitely recommend the Tin Shed and Tasty n' Sons. These are well worth the waits, and make sure to try the biscuits. YUMMY!
3) Sip on some delicious coffee at one of Portland's coffee establishments!
Seattle and Portland both have delicious coffee establishments. But I must admit, as much as it pains me to say, I had the most amazing americano I have ever had in Portland. A few of our favorite Portland roasters are: Stumptown Coffee, Case Study Coffee, and Heart Coffee.
4) Bust your belly with some laughter at Al's Den
We love comedy! Al's Den hosts comedy nights and it's the perfect place to spend an evening full of laughter. If there isn't something happening at Al's, check out https://www.portlandmercury.com/events. We have been able to find many other comedy and live music events using that resources.
5) Get lost for hours in Powell's Books
Besides REI, this has to be our second most visited store on the planet. We love perusing the endless selection of books... mainly in the travel section :)
6) Head to Deschutes Brewery - Portland Public House or funky bar
Deschutes Brewery - Portland Public House has a nice atmosphere and a plethora of delicious beers on tap. If you want a more unique drinking experience, check out Creepy's or the speakeasy -- the bible club (We love speakeasies) :)
7) Explore the Columbia River Gorge
If you are looking for outdoor adventure close to Portland, we would suggest checking out the Columbia River Gorge. Ride along the Historic Columbia River Highway to immerse yourself in some pacific northwest beauty. We have explored several of the falls within this area. If you are into waterfalls, we have enjoyed Oneonta Gorge, Latourell Falls, Tunnel Falls (unfortunately area affected by the 2017 eagle creek fire), and Multnomah Falls.
8) Spend an evening at Kennedy School
Ever dream about going back to school and spending time in detention? No...? Me either! But the McMenamins Kennedy School is a portland gem! This is an old elementary school that has been renovated, and now houses a movie theater, restaurants, and unique bars aptly named Detention and Honors Bar.
9) Sip tea at Lan Su Chinese Garden
Another place that can be enjoyed rain or shine is the Lan Su Chinese Garden. This garden is located in downtown Portland, however, it did make us feel like we had been transported back to China. If you visit, stop by the tea house to enjoy some delicious tea.
10) Take a stroll within Forest Park to the Witch's Castle
If you are wanting to walk through a forest and don't want to travel to far...head to Forest Park, and perhaps take the easy stroll to the Witch's Castle.
11) Eat an excessive amount of food from food trucks
Portland has an amazing food scene! To enjoy a unique food experience, head to one of this unique food establishments :) A whole box of food trucks can be found between 9th and 10th Avenues on Washington Street. One of our favorites is The Grilled Cheese Grill!
12) Try a La'ssant at Nola Doughnuts
We eat a lot of donuts when we visit Portland. In fact, I think we each eat at least 3 donuts when we visit (...good thing we live in Seattle). Nola Doughnuts may make the best doughnuts we've ever had... Definitely worth stopping by after a long stroll through Powell's Books.
13) Hike the Trail of Ten Falls Loop
A little over an hour outside of Portland is Silver Falls State Park, home to the Trail of Ten Falls. This is a wonderful, easy 7.8 mile loop that showcases several stunning waterfalls. Definitely worth the visit anytime of the year, rain or shine! When we hike it... it was pouring! Didn't dampen our mood or enjoyment, just our clothes! :)
14) Venture out to Mount Hood
Mount Hood can be enjoyed anytime of the year! During the summer, there are seemingly endless amount of trails scattered throughout the Mount Hood National Forest. We enjoyed the wildflowers on McNeil Point in May! When winter hits the pacific northwest, the mountains become a winter wonderland! Mount Hood winter adventures include snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and cross-country!
15) Get coffee at Tov Bus!
To enjoy an unique coffee drink in a funky bus, head to Tov Bus! Their 'cozy yum yum' drink may be one of the best autumn drinks I have ever had. Yum!
Enjoy your adventures in Portland!
