Portland has a quirky charm to it that travelers remember forever. Locals advocate for the oddities that make the city unique. Its motto is “Keep Portland Weird” and with 90 distinct neighborhoods, the city is woven together like a diverse tapestry of art and culture.
Way out west, Portland is a fun-filled destination with a rich history. An amass of entertainment, restaurants, and natural beauty, the Oregon city continues to win the hearts of tourists from everywhere. Here are seven ways to experience the cultural beauty of Portland this fall.
Embrace Nature At Portland Japanese Gardens
The Portland Japanese Gardens is a symphony of nature and magic. It’s been recognized as the most beautiful and authentic garden outside of Japan. This fall, the garden is celebrating its 60th anniversary with plenty of events and installations to explore. Art created by acclaimed Japanese artist Takahiro Iwasaki can be found throughout the garden this fall. It’s also an incredible place to see the changing autumn leaves before winter comes.
Take Your Tastebuds Around The World In 82 Dishes
Travelers can take a tour around the world during the city’s premier food festival. From October 21 to November 5, visitors can enjoy cuisine from everywhere at Around The World In 82 Dishes. Over the course of the weekends, visitors can get stamps on their food passports as they try the different international vendors featured at the festival. The event kicks off with a brisk 5K run on the 21st.
Shop Portland’s Saturday Market
With over 150 booths selling arts, crafts, and local goods, the Saturday Market is a must-visit when in Portland. The market was established in 1974 and happens every Saturday in the Old Town/Chinatown neighborhood. The Saturday Market is a great way to experience the local charm of Portland. You’ll find a little bit of everything for sale including plants, jewelry, food, and more.
Explore The Streets Of The Cultural District
Portland’s cultural district covers a total of twelve blocks. With incredible museums, concert halls, and historic architecture, the district is a treat for art lovers. Travelers can learn more about the region’s history at the Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Historical Society Museum. There are scenic parks to explore like Keller Fountain. Powell’s City Books is the city’s largest bookstore and of course the Saturday Market every weekend.
Fall In Love With Words At SLAMLANDIA
SLAMLANDIA is an open mic night happening in Portland every third Thursday of the month. The event fosters a safe space for poets and creatives to express themselves and share their work. For the traveling wordsmiths and lyricists, SLAMLANDIA is a great event to pop into this Fall if you’re visiting the city. Get your snaps and stanzas ready for a night of spoken word magic.
Bike Down Wildwood Trail
At 30.2 miles long, Wildwood Trail is America’s largest forested, urban trail. The immersive nature hike can be broken down into five parts. It can be explored by bike or on foot, giving travelers space to explore for hours. There is so much to see in this expansive world of forest and green. Travelers will also find Pittock Mansion hidden off the trail. The French chateau provides amazing views of the city from above.
Enjoy Dance Delicacy At The Oregon Ballet Theatre
The Oregon Ballet Theatre has shows all year long for travelers to check out while in Portland. The ballet is dedicated to expression and it shows in the perfected crafts of its students and performances. This fall, the ballet will feature Swan Lake as well as a performance of The Nutcracker later in December.
