The City of Roses wears many different hats, from foodie dream destination to outdoor lovers’ paradise to hip cultural hub. Portland showcases that diversity in six major neighborhoods, which Portlanders call the “Six Quadrants” in the city’s signature tongue-in-cheek style. Visit the Pearl District for cobblestone streets and boutique shopping, bike to a microbrewery in Central Eastside, or tour the Oregon Zoo and Washington Park in Southwest Portland.
Want to find out more about where to go, what to eat, and what to see in Portland? We’ve rounded up some of our can’t-miss spots.
Things to do outdoors
Situated between two rivers, laced with bike trails, and studded with lush parks, Portland offers scores of opportunities for outdoor fun. The city is also an easy day trip from nearby natural wonders like the majestic Columbia River Gorge to the east and the cliff-lined Pacific Ocean, less than two hours to the west. The area’s mild climate makes it possible to get outside all year round.
- Biking: To tour Portland on two wheels, you can rent a bike through the citywide bike-share program, Biketown, or at one of the numerous cycle shops around town. A favorite ride is the Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade, a leisurely path that traces the Willamette River.
- Hiking trails: Portland boasts an impressive 10,000 acres of parks, from manicured flower beds and culturally themed gardens to green hilltops with panoramic skyline views. Get a taste for urban hiking on the meandering Wildwood Trail in wooded Forest Park, or climb to the top of Mt. Tabor, an extinct volcano.
- Kayaking trips: One of the best ways to explore the city is by water. Paddle around a river island on a guided tour, or set out solo to see iconic landmarks like St. Johns Bridge from a new vantage point.
Portland’s food and drink
It’s nearly impossible not to eat and drink well in Portland, where you can start your day with an artisan latte at Heart Coffee Roasters, pick up pulled pork at Matt’s BBQ for lunch, and finish at a splurge-worthy French bistro like St. Jack.
- Craft beer and spirits: Nicknamed “Beervana,” Portland is packed with brewpubs, tasting rooms, and beer bars. Book a beer tour for an insider’s perspective, or venture out on your own at clusters of breweries in neighborhoods like the Pearl District or Buckman. Don’t skip out on locally made craft spirits, either. You can visit a handful of small-batch producers at Southeast Portland’s Distillery Row.
- Food carts: Knots of eclectic food carts set up in “pods” around town, where you can sample a hodgepodge of delicious eats, from wood-fired pizza to hand-pulled noodles. Food carts also offer some of Portland’s best values, with most dishes coming in at USD 10 or less.
Arts and culture
Portland’s cultural offerings include gallery-lined neighborhood arts districts, institutions like the Portland Puppet Museum that help “Keep Portland Weird,” and beloved music and theater venues. Here are some of the highlights:
- Indie movie theaters: The city is rightfully proud of its numerous independent cinemas, including stalwarts like the Hollywood Theatre, Cinema 21, and the Clinton Street Theater. Catch cult classics, documentaries, and more mainstream options while enjoying a cold beer or a glass of wine.
- The Saturday Market: The massive Saturday Market sets up in Old Town every weekend from April to mid-December. Visit one of the country’s largest open-air craft markets to buy handcrafted goods and gourmet snacks from local vendors.
Travel tip
Leave some extra time before takeoff at Portland International Airport (PDX). There, you can sip a Black Butte Porter beer at Deschutes Brewery or try a decked-out burger at Henry’s Tavern.
Ready to discover all that Portland has to offer? Reserve a room with us, and make Radisson Hotels Americas your home base for adventure.
