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About this guide
As one of the most exciting cities in the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon has vibrant art, multicultural communities, and natural beauty. In short, Portland's thriving metropolis is a dynamic atmosphere that welcomes every traveler with open arms. From mouthwatering cuisine at cultural Black-owned restaurants to green and mountainous landscapes, the city of Portland has it all.
- Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), December to February (off-season), March to May and September to November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Pacific Time Zone (PST)
- Currency: USD ($)
- Noteworthy: Portland Black Film Festival (February), Soul'd Out Music Festival (April), Juneteenth Oregon (June), Portland International Beerfest (June)
- Best for: Outdoor Adventure Seekers, Sustainable Nature Advocates, Craft Beer & Coffee Lovers, Farm-To-Table Foodies, Vintage Novelty Shoppers
Get Away: Getting To and Around Portland, Oregon
By Air
Travelers can book a flight to Portland, Oregon through Portland International Airport. Portland International Airport is a major airport with numerous domestic and international airlines located nine miles from downtown Portland.
By Car
Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to navigate Portland’s well-maintained road infrastructure and grid system. In that, visitors can see diverse neighborhoods, sightsee iconic landmarks, and venture into Oregon’s stunning natural beauty at their own pace.
By Public Transit
The TriMet system—which includes buses, light rail, and streetcars—is Portland’s public transit system. TriMet is great for the eco-conscious traveler and offers an extensive network and reliability. The MAX light rail connects to key parts of the city with buses that serve the entire metropolitan area. In that case, consider purchasing a Hop Fastpass for convenient access to all modes of public transit.
Explore Portland, Oregon on Foot
Take advantage of Portland’s pedestrian-friendly layout to see its vibrant neighborhoods. Without a doubt, downtown Portland is conducive to walking with ample sidewalks and pedestrian pathways to visit iconic areas and soak in the local charm.
Quick facts
Pacific Time Zone (PST)
USD ($)
English
Good For
Sustainable Nature & Outdoor Adventure Seekers
Craft Beer & Coffee Lovers
Farm-To-Table Foodies
Vintage Novelty Shoppers
Keep in mind
- Portland Black Film Festival (February)
- Soul'd Out Music Festival (April)
- Juneteenth Oregon (June)
- Portland International Beerfest (June)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Portland, Oregon
Since March 2017, the Deadstock Coffee & Gallery has been roasting and blending its own coffee blends with an artisanal menu. The cafe and art gallery combo is perfect for a much-needed caffeine boost and a peek into Portland’s sneaker culture.
Founded in March 2019, the Assembly Brewing Co. is Oregon's first Black-owned and Black-run brewery located in the Foster-Powell neighborhood. This 15-barrel brewpub offers a diverse range of house-made brews that perfectly complement their mouthwatering Detroit-style pizza.
The Mexican-Southern Mobile Kitchen Nacheaux creates fusion delights met with rave reviews from locals and travelers across Portland. Co-founded by talented husband and wife duo, Anthony and Stephanie Brown, Nacheaux's name combines 'nacho' with the French-Creole 'eaux,' representing their fusion cuisine.
This Indigenous Mexican woman-owned shop serves up an array of vegan paletas, soft-serve, and other tantalizing recipes. Travelers can indulge in homemade cultural frozen dessert goodness at the Ice Queen in Southeast Portland.
The beautiful Pan-Asian fusion of flavors with a modern vegan twist at Norah should not be missed. The restaurant was named after a traditional dance symbolizing community vitality in Southern Thailand. Co-owners Nan Chaison and Prae Nobnorb infuse their cultural heritage into every bite.
Step into Raven’s Manor for hauntingly charming cocktails and morbidly creative dishes that merge macabre with culinary excellence. Every dish is a deliciously dark ode to the Gothic, from the green-hued Exorcist to the Grilled Cheese of Darkness.
HunnyMilk serves up comfort food with an imaginative twist like blueberry-stuffed sourdough pancake doughnuts. This brunch-forward spot also has whimsical savory items like "Everything" Beignet Benedicts and popcorn chicken & waffles.
Stay
Stay: Places to Stay In Portland, Oregon
This tranquil Urban Garden Oasis is full of abundant light, gorgeous garden views, and upscale amenities. The spacious, single-story layout is wheelchair-accessible with floor-to-ceiling glass, cathedral ceilings, and exposed woodwork.
This entire spacious eco-friendly house has a private entrance and high-speed cable internet. Guests are close to food and nightlife hotspots on Division Street and the Hawthorne district in Portland.
The Portland Eco House is where eco-friendliness meets vegan-friendly charm in the Alberta Arts District. With proximity to popular Alberta Street and easy access to downtown, guests experience Portland's unique local eats, shops, parks, and more.
The Jupiter Hotel is actually two distinctly Portland hotels with inventive yet comforting atmospheres. Both original and NEXT accommodations inspire guests to explore the area and relax after a day in the city.
The rooftop vistas, contemporary art-filled rooms, and acclaimed dining make The Nines Hotel a prime downtown location. Its historic charm, contemporary luxury, and eco-friendly credentials make it an excellent stay for the eco-conscious traveler.
The Hotel Lucia has a rich history in downtown Portland and houses an expansive art collection and modern amenities. It's the perfect choice for a culturally inspired stay for business and pleasure in the heart of the city.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Portland, Oregon
This is the walking food tour made for the quintessential foodie travelers exploring Downtown Portland. Visitors are led through the Pearl District, known for popular local beer, special pretzels, and charming cafes.
Escape on this captivating Oregon Coast tour without the hassle of driving and all the views in Portland. This tour highlights the Pacific Northwest coast's breathtaking beauty as travelers explore Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, and more.
The Portland Japanese Garden recently celebrated 60 years of inspiration, peace, harmony, and tranquility. The serene beauty of the Cultural Village features new garden spaces, classrooms, and the delicious Umami Cafe.
The Willamette Valley Wine Tour includes a gourmet vineyard lunch with a naturally beautiful backdrop. Guests receive door-to-door transport service to up to five wineries in Oregon's wine country.
This Downtown Portland coffee and donut tour showcases the city's fame as the coffee and donut capital of the world. There are craft coffee hotspots and pastries from exclusive local shops.
Take home a unique souvenir at this fragrance design workshop with over 30 raw ingredients, blending techniques, and expert guidance. Guests will learn to craft their own signature scent and take home a custom roll-on fragrance bottle.
The Multnomah Zen Waterfall Scenic Hike is an unforgettable half-day adventure through the awe-inspiring wonders of the Columbia Gorge. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating tales of geology, mythology, and the rich history of the region.
Led by a seasoned professional with over a decade of expertise, these glass blowing lessons are an immersive experience. Guests receive thorough instruction in basic safety skills and craft 2-3 pieces of glass art during the hands-on beginner's lesson.