Why visit Portland
Natural Sites
From the majestic Cascade Mountains to the winding Willamette River, one of Portland’s biggest selling points is its proximity to enchanting natural wonders. Whether you wish to plan a day trip or join us on tour, your path will lead you to raw, untouched beauty like you’ve never seen before. Here are a few ways our travellers have connected with nature just outside of city limits.
Mt. Hood
Explore the grand landscape of this region outside Portland and take in the soaring forests, stunning waterfalls and gorgeous hillsides. The crowning snowy peak of Mt. Hood contains eleven glaciers and is a consistent favourite of skiers and snowboarders. Experience the power and grandeur of Mother Nature here.
Columbia River Gorge
This spectacular river canyon runs 80 miles long and up to 4,000 feet deep. The Gorge’s use as a major transportation corridor can be traced back thousands of years, starting with the Native American people who would travel along it to trade at Celilo Falls. While touring the Gorge, you’ll also pass by the Bonneville Dam and learn about its fascinating hydropower.
Willamette Valley
Encounter this storybook natural site once known as the “promised land of milk and honey” for pioneers who followed the Oregon Trail. This lush land contains some of the most fertile agricultural soil in Oregon along with several vital waterways, including the Willamette River. Chart the course of Lewis and Clark and take in the bucolic splendour found here.
Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation Area
Stretching along the Oregon Coast is this natural phenomenon and major attraction. The Oregon Dunes are a result of millions of years of wind and rain erosion, with some sandy mounds towering up to 500 feet above sea level. If you’re a science fiction fan, you might be interested to know that these dunes served as inspiration for author Frank Herbert to write his novel, Dune.
Neighborhoods
To fully immerse yourself in Portland’s quirky vibe, many visitors opt to take a tour of one (or several) of Portland’s neighbourhoods. From historic streets dotted with Victorian homes to ultra-modern blocks that offer high-end dining and shopping, this metropolis’ overall spread is a delight to explore. The question is – where do you want to go first?
Lloyd District
Across the Willamette River you’ll find this area of the city – a hub for many of Portland’s entertainment events. See the Trailblazers’ home court at the Moda Centre, peruse the shops at the Lloyd Centre, or hop aboard the Portland Streetcar Central Loop to access the city’s most notable eastside sites. This is an exciting district we recommend touring.
Downtown Portland
Easily walkable and compact in size, the heart of the city is found in downtown Portland. Enjoy some tax-free shopping, stroll through the sprawling green spaces, or, indulge in something sweet (the iconic Voodoo Doughnut is located here). Get a sense of Portland’s unique flair here.
Pearl District
This chic section of Portland transformed itself from an industrial warehouse district to a place where the well-heeled flock. Enjoy perusing stylish boutiques, visiting world class art galleries and savouring a meal at sumptuous eateries. Be sure to stop at Powell’s City of Books – it’s the largest bookstore in the world and a treasured gem for visitors and locals alike.
Northwest Portland/Nob Hill
Combining historic Victorian homes with trendy boutiques, cafés and galleries, this is one of Portland’s most charming and welcoming neighbourhoods. Much like the other well-known Nob Hill in San Francisco, this area of the city is complete with narrow streets and plenty of turn-of-the-century architecture to admire. After touring the Pearl District or perusing downtown, hop on the Portland Streetcar and visit this charming area of the city.
Things to Do
Between its access to fairy-tale-like natural wonders, inviting neighbourhoods, and enticing shopping and entertainment, there are plenty of ways to occupy yourself while in Portland. Whether you enjoy history or prefer the bustle of the city, your personal desires for a good time will be fulfilled. We recommend putting these places on your “must-see” list.
Portland International Rose Test Garden
It’s said that Portland largely acquired its moniker as the “City of Roses” from the inception of this very garden. In 1915, a citizen convinced the local government to set up a rose test garden to preserve the species of European roses that might be devastated by the bombings from WWII. As the garden grew, so did the interest in roses amongst the people of Portland. Today, this green space is abloom with thousands of these romantic flowers.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
In the heart of downtown you’ll find this zen-like space. Considered an authentic Ming Dynasty garden, it’s covered in walkways, flourishing greenery and quiet nooks. Enjoy strolling through the tranquil grounds before enjoying a cup of tea in the teahouse.
Pittock Mansion
Originally home to publisher Henry Pittock and his wife Georgiana Pittock – the founder of the Portland Rose Society – this stately “mansion on the hill” is one of Portland’s more impressive historic treasures. After sitting vacant for several years in the early 60s, the estate was lovingly restored and transformed into a public space and historic house museum. If you want panoramic views of the city skyline, the Willamette River and the Cascade Mountains – the mansion is the place to visit.
The Portland Art Museum
With a massive collection of more than 42,000 notable pieces of artwork, this museum will leave you awestruck. The Portland Art Museum has garnered international attention as it’s considered one of the oldest and most impressive in the country. While taking a tour, be sure to head over to the Jubitz Centre for Modern and Contemporary Art to see even more astounding paintings, sculptures and installations.