2026 Travel Portland Visitor Guide

seaside is for

Years from now you aren’t going to remember doing errands, school drop-offs or the feedback from Tuesday’s meeting. You’ll remember what you did for fun. So bring your crew to Seaside. Fly kites, ride bikes, take hikes, and rent a paddle boat that looks like a swan. Do all the things and take lots of pictures. So when you think back on that perfect time together you can text photos back and forth and re-live it all over again.

A tribute to nature and the thrill of discovery, The Ritz-Carlton, Portland is your ultimate urban retreat for luxurious relaxation and exceptional experiences. Whether staying with us or visiting for a time, savor exquisite dining at Bellpine on the 20th floor, featuring stunning views of the city and Cascades. Unwind at Meadowrue, our forest-inspired bar and lounge, or rejuvenate at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Celebrate unforgettable events and special occasions in over 17,000 square feet of elegant event space. The Ritz-Carlton, Portland invites you to experience the history, landscape, and vibrant spirit of one of America’s most beautiful destinations.

For details and reservations, scan the QR code, visit ritzcarltonportland.com, or call 971-900-4500.

©2016 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C

Mark your calendar for these annual festivals and events only found in the Rose City.

Don’t miss any of Portland’s must-see places, from a year-round farmers market to a historic mansion tucked in the hills.

This is your insider’s guide to the city’s six fabulous “quadrants.”

Pick up your new favorite things from Portland’s many special shops and markets.

Unforgettable parks, gardens and rivers are easy to find and accessible year-round.

Explore popular attractions and the central city with these maps.

Beloved food carts and buzzy bars are just the beginning of an unforgettable Portland food experience.

the natural beauty and diverse communities near and around

Learn how to get around, navigate PDX airport and pack for the weather. Find inspiration,

and soul at myriad museums,

clubs and rowdy sports

PORTLAND RESTS ON traditional village sites of the Multnomah, Wasco, Cowlitz, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Bands of Chinook, Tualatin Kalapuya, Molalla and many other Native American tribes. In the 1800s, Oregon tribes were forcibly removed and white settlers occupied 2.5 million acres of tribal land, including what is now Portland. Today, Portland’s urban Native population includes nearly 70,000 people from almost 400 tribes. Connect with Indigenous community at places like the Portland Art Museum and the Center for Native Arts and Culture s ( p. 66 ), and A Bead Source ( p. 77 ).

LAND COMMITMENT

Look for highlighted text throughout the guide for some of Portland’s offerings in these categories:

Find Peace Within

PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN has been proclaimed as the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan. A peaceful journey into another world is just minutes away from Downtown Portland and located in Washington Park.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

JAMIE CATTANACH is a Floridaborn writer now based in Portland, where she landed in 2019 after years of cross-country wandering. She lives near Alberta Park with her greyhound, Aspen.

AARON LEE is a commercial photographer who artfully captures moments and emotions through the interplay of light and shadows. Born and raised in NE Portland, he has a deep affinity for helping the local community.

MARINA MARTINEZBATEMAN (they/them) is an equity and communications consultant who moved to Portland in 2014. They live in Rockwood with their family and can usually be found somewhere on the east side making friends.

REBECCA NGUYEN is a Vietnamese American calligrapher and illustrator creating art inspired by food, community, and everyday moments. You can find her at random restaurants around the city eating and doodling.

MIKA RANE is a Mexican American illustrator and artist who grew up in Mexico City but has fallen in love with PNW moss, banana slugs and coffee. You can find her in the forest, foraging for mushrooms with her kids and partner.

MATT WASTRADOWSKI is a Portland-based travel writer and author who loves covering the great outdoors, the Pacific Northwest’s craft beer scene and regional history.

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THE TO-DO LIST

From only-in-Portland events to beloved cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone — year-round.

COMPILED BY

ELLEE THALHEIMER

WINTER

Lunar New Year Celebration

Feb. 17–March 8, 2026

Usher in the lunar new year at Lan Su Chinese Garden with lion dances, moon gazing, performances and a spectacular Lantern Festival.

Portland Jazz Festival

March 5–14, 2026

This two-week event presented by PDX Jazz brings world-class music to multiple venues, featuring jazz masters, up-and-coming artists, free community shows and public conversations.

Jon

Batiste and his band

Light Up the Night

The Portland Winter Light Festival is electric.

BY MARINA MARTINEZ-BATEMAN

WINTER TRAVELERS MIGHT anticipate a colder, darker visit, but if you time it right, you can catch the brightest time of year. For two weekends in February, the Portland Winter Light Festival (pdxwlf.com) illuminates the evenings with warmth and shining color. This citywide project is the brainchild of the Willamette Light Brigade, which illuminates the Morrison Bridge year-round with colorful lights chosen by the public.

During the festival, that bright spirit spreads through the rest of the city, which transforms into a palette for playful expression through copious colorful LEDs, video, projection and even fire! While major performances and events center around a few hubs, including Pioneer Courthouse Square and the World Trade Center, there are hundreds of art installations throughout the city, with storefronts and property owners hosting projects by Portland’s best and brightest new and established artists.

The festival is free and family-friendly. Many exhibits are interactive, some are educational, and many people join the festivities in homemade illuminated costumes.

Portland Winter Light Festival

SPRING

Portland Dining Month March 2026

The city’s top restaurants offer three-course meals at a deliciously affordable price. Choose between two different price points and dozens of culinary genres.

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta May 1–5, 2026

At Oregon’s largest multicultural festival, try regional Mexican dishes, peruse open-air stalls and watch traditional folk dancing.

SUMMER

Portland Rose Festival May 22–June 7, 2026

During this annual celebration, parades fill the streets and jovial crowds gather at the waterfront for carnival rides, food, dragon boat races, live music and more.

Pedalpalooza (aka Bike Summer) June 1–Aug. 31, 2026

Join these grassroots rides with themes like Fancy Mondays, Funky Safari and the crown jewel, the World Naked Bike Ride, when thousands of birthday-suited cyclists take to the streets.

Portland Pride July 18–19, 2026

Join a rollicking party of LGBTQIA2S+ revelers and their allies gathered downtown to celebrate identity and love with a parade and waterfront festival.

Since 2022, Pioneer Courthouse Square has brought a stacked roster of legendary musicians to this public-square-turned-outdoor-music-venue in the heart of downtown Portland.

PDX Adult Soapbox Derby

Aug. 15, 2026

Gather with thousands of people to watch fully grown adults hurl themselves down Southeast Portland’s Mt. Tabor in homemade, gravity-propelled vehicles.

FALL

El Grito

Sept. 15–16, 2026

Oregon’s largest celebration of Mexican Independence Day also honors the state’s diverse Latine community. Enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine, live music and dancers and educational booths.

Portland Retro Gaming Expo

Oct. 9–11, 2026

One of the world’s largest conventions celebrating classic video and arcade games, this weekend-long event is jam-packed with panels, historical exhibits and tournaments.

Portland: City of Books

Oregon’s biggest single-day literary event celebrates stories every November.

BY EMILLY PRADO

EACH NOVEMBER,

THOUSANDS of enthusiastic attendees gather downtown (rain or shine) for the Portland Book Festival. The one-day literary celebration boasts an action-packed, all-ages, multigenre agenda featuring panels, pop-up readings, story times, writing workshops, an enormous book fair and delicious food cart fare.

Hosted in such idyllic venues as the Portland Art Museum, Keller Auditorium and The Old Church Concert Hall, the festival has grown immensely since its 2005 beginnings as a beloved writer-founded event called

Wordstock. Led by Literary Arts since 2015, this cherished event has only grown stronger, featuring national literary stars, local legends and emerging youth writers alike. Recent author attendees have included Tommy Orange, Cheryl Strayed, Mosab Abu Toha, Renée Watson, Danez Smith and Willy Vlautin. Since 2022, the festival has also offered “Cover to Cover,” a series of community-curated events that extend the festivities over several days in exciting and innovative ways. Think literary trivia, bilingual cuentos, pajama party story time, poetry karaoke and more. literary-arts.org

Curiosity Unbound

Whether you are exploring thrilling exhibitions, experimenting in hands-on labs, touring the USS Blueback submarine, or gazing at the stars in our planetarium, let your curiosity lead you through the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. Experience science-fueled fun for all ages!

Hopscotch

Preparetobe delightedbyall Portlandhastooffer.

ATTRACTIONS

TOP OF THE CHARTS

Hoyt Arboretum

Explore this free attraction in Washington Park — with 12 miles (19.3 km) of hiking trails and 2,300 species of trees and shrubs, it’s a living tree museum. 4000 SW Fairview Blvd.

Not to be missed: 10 of the city’s greatest hits.

BY ELLEE THALHEIMER

Pioneer Courthouse Square

Known as Portland’s “living room,” this brick-lined park is a leading outdoor venue, hosting 300 events annually, including weekly free live music and movies in the summer. 701 SW Sixth Ave.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

This Suzhou-style garden fosters an appreciation of Chinese culture, art, architecture and nature. Enjoy the serene pavilions and koifilled ponds. 239 NW Everett St.

Fun with the Fam

These interactive attractions are designed with kids in mind.

ONE OF PORTLAND’S most popular family-friendly attractions is undoubtedly the Oregon Zoo . Kiddos go nuts for a slide in the shape of a wooden log, zoo tours by train, a carousel and unparalled Pacific Northwest animal exhibits. Food highlights include elephant ears (the fried dough kind, of

The Portland Aquarium

course) and velvety soft-serve ice cream. 4001 SW Canyon Rd.

Fun for all ages, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) invites kids to see movies on a giant screen, wonder at the universe in the planetarium, tour a real submarine and visit immersive exhibitions,

including an earthquake simulator. 1945 SE Water Ave.

A Portland gem for more than three decades, Northwest Children’s Theater & School not only presents multiple mainstage productions annually but also offers a regular cinema calendar. 1000 SW Broadway

Southeast Portland’s Oaks Park is a top spot for carnival thrills and family fun, with a bevy of rides, games and mini golf. Don’t miss the historic roller rink — the largest on the West Coast. 7805 SE Oaks Park Way

Self-described “public joy creator” and visual artist Mike Bennett converted a former bank in St. Johns into the whimsical Wonderwood Mini Golf (7410 N Chicago Ave.); next door, Wonderwood Springs (8811 N Lombard St.) is a café serving breakfast and lunch, as well as hosting live performances and events; and downtown, the new Portland Aquarium (603 SW Broadway) is a fantastical, immersive and educational art installation, featuring more than 100 of Bennett’s signature cartoon animals.

Portland Farmers Market

Every Saturday (year-round!), the South Park Blocks on the downtown Portland State University (PSU) campus transform into the city’s most celebrated outdoor grocery, featuring more than 200 vendors serving up hot food, fresh produce and more. 1803 SW Park Ave.

Powell’s City of Books

It’ll come as no surprise that this Portland institution is the world’s largest independent bookstore. Filling an entire city block, its selection of approximately 1 million new and used titles spans nine rooms across four bustling floors. 1005 W Burnside St.

Continued on p. 22

KeepingPortlandWeird

Explore fantastical oddities and meet real creepy-crawlies.

BY MARINA MARTI NEZ-BATEMAN

THE PORTLAND INSECTARIUM is part zoo, part museum and 100% dedicated to arthropods (bugs, if you’re casual). Peruse exhibits of pinned insects and living displays, and if you’re feeling brave, maybe even handle a live mantis. The Insectarium is all-ages, but the toys, games, books and activities on offer make it a particular draw for kids. 5429 N Moore Ave.

The Zymoglyphic Museum is the world’s only institution devoted to the study and display of art and artifacts from the Zymoglyphic region — a place that exists only in the mind of artist Jim Stewart. Made from found objects, Stewart’s pieces are sorted into historical periods and displayed above his garage. The space is open each second and fourth Sunday of the month from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 6225 SE Alder St.

The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium is a one-of-a-kind art gallery, museum and gift shop featuring interactive art for all six senses, focusing on cryptozoology — the study of mythical creatures. You’ll also find novelties, gags, gifts and unique oddities. 2234 NW Thurman St

PORTLAND ART MUSEUM LEVELS UP

Discover the renovated and expanded PAM campus.

BY ISABEL LEMUS KRISTENSEN

THE PORTLAND ART MUSEUM

The Portland Art Museum has long been the beating heart of downtown’s cultural district, and its newly completed renovation and expansion project cements it as one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier arts and culture destinations.

Visitors are now welcomed by the stunning glass Mark Rothko Pavilion (the artist grew up in Portland), which connects PAM’s two historic buildings and creates a seamless path through its revamped galleries and spaces. Increased access is at the center of the museum’s transformation

with the addition of elevators, widened sidewalks, genderneutral bathrooms, and an open-air pedestrian passageway between the Park Blocks and Tenth Avenue.

On view in 2026: Three hundred major new acquisitions from Jeffrey Gibson, Ugo Rondinone and Carrie Mae Weems, among others, as well as special exhibitions featuring the colorful works of David Hockney and Australian Indigenous art from Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria.

Additionally, the new Black Art and Experiences gallery

features rotating exhibitions, including performance art and installations by Nick Cave and Lisa Jarrett. Museum admission is free on the first Thursday of each month.

1219 SW Park Ave.

Continued from p. 21

Portland Aerial Tram

Arrive by transit, bike, foot or car, and travel 500 vertical feet (152 m) from the South Waterfront to Marquam Hill aboard the iconic silver tram. Marvel at panoramic views of the city skyline and — on a clear day — Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens. 3303 S Bond Ave.

Pittock Mansion

A visit to this 23-room mansion in the West Hills offers insights into the lives of early Portland moguls Henry and Georgiana Pittock, plus stellar views of the city. Tickets grant you a public tour of the structure; access to the grounds and surrounding Forest Park is free. 3229 NW Pittock Dr.

Portland Japanese Garden

Set in the scenic West Hills, this authentic Japanese garden features a teahouse, ADAaccessible paths, and a free shuttle to the hilly entrance.

611 SW Kingston Ave.

Portland Japanese Garden

Accessible Adventures

Portland is a city for everyone — with accessibility woven into its fabric.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

THE CITY’S WELCOMING energy extends to Portland International Airport (PDX), where a 24-7 sensory room offers travelers a calming, restorative space.

Throughout the city, public transit — TriMet buses, streetcars and light rail trains — is equipped for visitors with disabilities, with features like wheelchair lifts, braille signage and audio ticketing booths. Use these transit options to reach one of many Portland attractions designed with accessibility in mind.

In Portland’s West Hills, the 23room Pittock Mansion (3229 NW Pittock Dr.) pairs downtown skyline views with a look at life in the early 1900s. The mansion is partially

The Grotto

This Catholic sanctuary is an especially popular spot during the Christmas season. Amble along a flat, forested path to view Nativity scenes and brilliant light displays while enjoying live choral performances. 8840 NE Skidmore St.

wheelchair accessible, and the surrounding grounds feature wide pathways amid modest rose gardens that bloom in late May and early June.

Lan Su Chinese Garden (239 NW Everett St.) occupies a city block in the Old Town Chinatown neighborhood and is awash in verdant landscapes, pavilions and covered paths. A wheelchairaccessible route meanders through the walled garden, and admission is free for caregivers accompanying visitors with mobility needs.

Get a new perspective on the city from a Portland Spirit cruise (1010 SW Naito Pkwy.). Spacious

International Rose Test Garden

Located in Washington Park, this is the oldest public rose test garden in the United States — with 10,000 roses and stellar Portland city skyline views via ADA-accessible paths. 400 SW Kingston Ave.

vessels depart from downtown and offer year-round cruises on the Willamette River. The first (fully enclosed) floor of each boat is wheelchair accessible. Sensory kits are available, as are printed narration guides.

Unleash your inner child at the whimsical Hopscotch (1020 SE 10th Ave.), where more than a dozen galleries are filled with immersive, interactive art pieces, including a glowing ball pit and the Quantum Trampoline — where video projections mirror your movements. Navigate the space with walkers, wheelchairs and motorized scooters.

NEAR ME NOW

A free app for exploring Portland like a local.

Find

places

within an easy stroll or roll.

EXPLORE LIKE A local with this mapbased guide to Portland events, food carts, attractions, stores, restaurants and hidden gems — curated by a team of real, live city experts. No ads, no paid content and no AI.

Across six geographical sections, or “quadrants,” Portland’s attractions and businesses are clustered in 90+ neighborhoods. Explore some of our favorites.

NORTHWEST

NORTHWEST PORTLAND IS A study in contrasts, from swanky shopping and dining to ensconcing nature hikes just minutes away. This quadrant contains Forest Park , a vast urban forest laced with trails; the Bird Alliance of Oregon Wildlife Sanctuary ( 5151 NW Cornell Rd .) and Pittock Mansion ( 3229 NW Pittock Dr. ), where local history pairs with epic views. On the more

metropolitan side, the Pearl District features stylish shops, art galleries and Powell’s City of Books, one of the world’s great bookstores. In Nob Hill (also known as “Northwest”), you’ll find striking Victorian architecture and more top-notch shopping. Old Town Chinatown offers Portland history, iconic landmarks and — March–December — the Portland Saturday Market ( more on p. 28 ).

OLD TOWN CHINATOWN

The city’s original downtown, this entertainment district and streetwear shopping hub, situated on the west side of the Willamette River with easy access to downtown and the Pearl District, puts you in the heart of the action.

Caffeinate at sneaker-themed Deadstock Coffee (15 NW Fourth Ave.), then line up at Voodoo Doughnut (22 SW Third Ave.). On pedestrian-only Ankeny Alley, Kaizen Sushi (40 SW Third Ave.) specializes in chef’s choice omakase. Arcade and pinball fans won’t want to miss Ground Kontrol (115 NW Fifth Ave.), with 120 machines plus food and drinks. Feeling spooky?

Raven’s Manor (235 SW First Ave.) serves up eerily good drinks in a haunted mansion setting. Find a square-block retreat in the city at Lan Su Chinese Garden (239 NW Everett St.), with landscaped native Chinese plants and trees, plus a traditional tea house. Shop elegant fashions while sipping tea at Barnes and Morgan (131 NW Second Ave.) or cozy up with wool blankets from Pendleton (210 NW Broadway).

End the day with an unequaled drag experience at Darcelle XV Showplace (208 NW Third Ave.), which set a world record for the longest continual drag show (48 hours) in 2023.

Portland Sat urdayMarket

THE LARGEST AND longest-running open-air craft market in the United States, Portland Saturday Market ( 2 SW Naito Pkwy. ) embodies the spirit of the city with its hundreds of eclectic local vendors. Every Saturday from March through December, find chainmail jewelry, henna tattoos, high-end pottery, oil paintings, crocheted baby clothes, pet portraits, artisanal liquor and more in the rows of craft stalls. Be sure to check out the street performers who pop up to entertain

market-goers, and listen to the bands playing on the main stage. The market also hosts events like Pugapalooza, where pugs, dressed to the nines, compete in a pageant, and Crafternoon, where local artists lead free workshops. While you can find the famous PDX Original Elephant Ear at the food court, there are also plenty of options from around the globe.

L

PEARL DISTRICT

I

S R D

LOADING DOCKS AND cobblestone streets hint at this former warehouse district’s past, while stylish bars and gleaming lofts point toward the future. Escape into Arden (417 NW 10th Ave.) for seasonal Northwest fare accompanied by fine wines, or savor traditional hand-pulled Chinese noodles at Frank’s Noodle House (122 NW 10th Ave). At Revolvr (604 NW 13th Ave.), rustic chic menswear strikes a perfect Pacific Northwest balance.

The Pearl boasts some of Portland’s best art galleries and a decadesold tradition: First Thursday, when galleries stay open late and local artists showcase their work streetside. Stop into Hello from Portland (120 NW 10th Ave.) for Stumptown-specific mementos, or find your next read at the expansive Powell’s City of Books (1005 W Burnside St.). Catch a performance at Portland Center Stage (128 NW 11th Ave.) to round out your time in this artsy area.

The Yo Store

NOB HILL

OLD PORTLAND charm abounds in this walkable neighborhood between the Pearl District and Forest Park ( 4099 NW Thurman St. ), with its 70 miles (113 km) of hilly trails. Set the tone for your day at Sterling Coffee (518 NW 21st Ave.), founded in 2009.

Share a meal with friends at Phuket Cafe (1818 NW 23rd Pl.), which serves traditional Thai food in a stylish cocktail bar. With a menu full of French classics, St. Jack (1610 NW 23rd Ave.) spotlights local farmers and champions seasonality. Savor bold Chinese flavors at Bing Mi Dumpling & Noodle Bar (2572 NW Vaughn St.).

Northwest boasts great shops like The Yo Store (935 NW 19th Ave.), with its colorful selection of women’s, kids’ and home goods, and Spero Park (2285 NW Johnson St.), a boutique of vintageinspired women’s clothing emphasizing size inclusivity and sustainability.

NORTHEAST

PORTLAND’S LARGEST QUADRANT

boasts striking architecture, historic theaters and eclectic neighborhoods. If you’re coming to Portland for a big event — like a Trail Blazers game at the Moda Center, a concert at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum (300 N Ramsay Way) or a conference at the Oregon Convention Center — you’ll likely visit Northeast Portland.

This quadrant is also home to top-notch restaurants, bars and noteworthy sights like The Grotto, not to mention the first stop for many visitors: Portland International Airport (7000 NE Airport Way).

Salt&Straw

ALBERTA ARTS DISTRICT

Rejoice in breakfast-all-day at Proud Mary (2012 NE Alberta St.), an Aussie-run café with an internationally-influenced menu and an intense dedication to coffee. Visit family-run Bole Ethiopian Restaurant (915 NE Alberta St.) for a variety of delicious vegetarian and meatcentric dishes. Enjoy a Northwest spin on Basque pintxos at Urdaneta (3033 NE Alberta St.), or try Gabbiano’s (5411 NE

30th Ave.) for decadent Italian American bites like fried, marinarafilled mozzarella shooters.

Each month, Last Thursday on Alberta Street (15th Ave. to 30th Ave.) features openings at many of the district’s art galleries while venues and bars host live music. Try inventive ice creams at Salt & Straw (2035 NE Alberta St.), or see a show at the Alberta Rose Theatre (3000 NE Alberta St.)

or Alberta Street Pub (1036 NE Alberta St.).

Relax at the outdoor soaking pool at nearby McMenamins Kennedy School (5736 NE 33rd Ave.), or browse the vintage jerseys and snapbacks at Laundry (1723 NE Alberta St.). For the witchy at heart, let the orca mural guide you to the ideal tarot deck and a plethora of crystals at Psychic Sister (1829 NE Alberta St.).

CULLY

Long before Portland was “Portland,” this area was a Neerchokikoo village, home to the Chinook people. Today, Khunamokwst Park (5200 NE Alberta St.) is a great place to explore native plants. Visit Portland’s only Native-owned coffee shop, Bison Coffeehouse (3941 NE Cully Blvd.), where fresh pastries like flaky bacon and green chili biscuits and lemon olive oil cake are made every morning. Stop by Khao Niew Lao Street Food (4579 NE Cully Blvd.), a popular Lao restaurant and beer garden.

Pop into Jump Jump Music (7005 NE Prescott St.), a crate digger’s delight for R&B and soul treasures, or relax at Bosk (3746 NE 42nd Ave.), a plant and record shop with a hidden spa.

LLOYD

Across the Willamette River from downtown, the Lloyd neighborhood contains the Oregon Convention Center (777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) and the Moda Center (1 N Center Court St.), home to the NBA’s Trail Blazers and the WNBA’s Fire — both reachable via MAX Light Rail and the Portland Streetcar. Head to Twisted Croissant (2129 NE Broadway) for the

scrumptious, flaky pastry in all its iterations. Taste Tickler (1704 NE 14th Ave.) is a long-running teriyaki shop and sandwich joint using artisanal bread to craft traditional subs, as well as unique options like spicy bulgogi and kimchi chicken. For rooftop city views, enjoy happy hour at the Metropolitan Tavern (1021 NE Grand Ave.).

Near the Oregon Convention Center, Lloyd Center (2201 Lloyd Center) offers one of Portland’s largest shopping centers and an indoor ice rink. A few blocks away, Broadway Books (1714 NE Broadway) features plenty of tantalizing new and used titles.

HOLLYWOOD

Start the day with freshly made vegan doughnuts at Doe Donuts (4110 NE Sandy Blvd.). At Xiao Ye (3832 NE Sandy Blvd.), the “first-generation American” menu includes masa and mochiko flour madeleines, while Indonesianinfluenced food and beverages await at Gado Gado (1801 NE Cesar E. Chavez Blvd.). As the neighborhood’s namesake, historic Hollywood Theatre (4122 NE Sandy Blvd.) screens first-run and revival films.

Moda Center

Wedgehead

Flip through 21 pinball games at Wedgehead (3728 NE Sandy Blvd.), which pulls from a collection of 150 machines of all eras. Sip and savor eclectic vinyl and live DJ sets at Sonder, Listening Bar (1925 NE 42nd Ave.), or find local art and gifts at Moments Have You (1724 NE 40th Ave.).

Lilac Days 2026 Friday, April 18th-Sunday, May 10th 10am-4pm daily

Admission is $10 adults, children 12 and under free.

A N D Y S

SANDY

Portland’s urban grid rule breaker, Sandy Boulevard stretches diagonally from the Central Eastside almost all the way to the airport. For the spiritual and secular alike, one-of-a-kind sanctuary

The Grotto (8840 NE Skidmore St.) offers 62 acres (25.1 hectares) of gardens and peaceful respite, adorned in fall and winter by rich leaf color and holiday lighting, respectively.

The quirky Cameo Café (8111 NE Sandy Blvd.)

combines eclectic grandma decor with a Korean twist on the greasy spoon; don’t miss the truly huge Acre Pancakes. For heart-warming and filling bowls of Vietnamese soup, try Mekha Restaurant (6846 NE Sandy Blvd.), a local favorite.

28TH AVENUE

You can’t miss the striking art deco façade of the Laurelhurst Theater (2735 E Burnside St.). It’s been a pub theater for 25 of its 102 years and anchors this restaurant-heavy area. Dinner options include modern Thai at Paadee (6 SE 28th Ave.), fresh pasta at Montelupo Italian Market (344 NE 28th Ave.) and German currywurst at Stammtisch (401 NE 28th Ave.).

At Güero (200 NE 28th Ave.), wrap your hands around acclaimed tortas stacked high with carnitas,

Side Yard Farm owner Stacey Givens

braised beef or refried beans. Open ’til midnight, Moon Pocha (28 NE 28th Ave.) embodies the spirit of Korean nightlife; don’t miss their signature Daepo cocktail. Mikiko Mochi Donuts (300 NE 28th Ave.) serves up fresh-made glutenfree, dairy-free, nut-free mochi doughnuts.

OLOFragrance

Fragrance (234 NE 28th Ave.) offers unique scents blended on-site.

42ND AVENUE

This charming area is surrounded by a patchwork of homes and small farms. See farm-to-table dining in action at the Side Yard Farm & Kitchen (4800 NE Simpson St.), a queer womenled urban farm and kitchen that hosts events and summer bike-in movie nights.

Find botanical gifts and great coffee at Queer Plants Café (5027 NE 42nd Ave.), owned and

operated by a trained chef and an avid gardener. Tiny Moreso Café and Treat Shop (4520 NE 42nd Ave.) proves gluten-free and vegan can be delicious and indulgent. Adorned in bright red, yellow and green, Caribbean Spice (4516 NE 42nd Ave.) offers a wide array of Afro-Caribbean ingredients. Belt your lungs out at Spare Room Lounge (4830 NE 42nd Ave.), a former bowling alley turned bar and music venue, complete with karaoke and bingo nights.

BEAUMONT

This neighborhood features a central “main street” that’s home to several beloved local businesses.

Recharge at the airy Prince Coffee (4523 NE Fremont St.) for caffeine-infused drinks and English muffin breakfast sandwiches, or visit Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai (4759 NE Fremont St.) for the best of those two delights. Balance your sugar rush at Dirty Lettuce (4727 NE Fremont St.), a purveyor of vegan soul food, or Grand Central Baking (4440 NE Fremont St.), where scratchmade bread and pastries are taken to the next level. While most Beaumont shopping is practical, don’t miss boutiques like The Arrangement (4210 NE Fremont St.), founded in 1980, and Pacific Holiday (4443 NE Fremont St.) for new and resale fashions.

SOUTHEAST

IF YOU’RE SEARCHING FOR PORTLAND’S BEST-KNOWN ATTRIBUTES — hip, artsy, quirky, foodie — you may find yourself in Southeast Portland. It’s home to some of the city’s liveliest neighborhoods and food and drink hubs, like Hawthorne, East Burnside and the Jade District. But there’s more to this quadrant than craft cocktails, food carts and coffee shops. Families will enjoy exploring the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and seeking thrills at Oaks Amusement Park (7805 SE Oaks Park Way). Farther out, find refuge in peaceful parks like Mt. Tabor and Powell Butte (16160 SE Powell Blvd.) and charming, walkable neighborhoods.

CENTRAL EASTSIDE

Take the kiddos to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) (1945 SE Water Ave.), where enormous halls bring science to life with hundreds of interactive displays. Immerse yourself in interactive art at Hopscotch (1020 SE 10th Ave.), where kids of all

Delicious Donuts

ages will enjoy installations like laser graffiti, a huge ball pit and the Quantum Trampoline.

Start early to try Delicious Donuts (12 SE Grand Ave.); this family-owned shop sneaks under the radar yet often sells out before noon. After making its name as a food cart, Nong’s Khao Man Gai (609 SE Ankeny St.) expanded into this cozy spot where other Thai specialties

accompany the eponymous chicken and rice. Known for its sumptuous charcuterie, Olympia Provisions (107 SE Washington St.) also serves a mean brunch. For live music, try The Get Down (680 SE Sixth Ave.). Find a locally made trinket or an imported delight at Cargo (81 SE Yamhill St.), which fills a historic warehouse with curated finds and mini-shops from Portland brands.

Bagdad Theater

HAWTHORNE

Spanning 43 blocks, this walkable street is full of vintage shops, boutiques and dining. Do a little jig at Hawthorne Theatre (1507 SE 39th Ave.), a bustling all-ages music venue. Or catch a flick at McMenamins Bagdad Theater and Pub (3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd.), one of the city’s many view-and-brew cinemas.

Savor French toast, biscuit breakfasts and boozy brunch drinks at The Hazel Room (3279 SE Hawthorne Blvd.).

Enjoy a gluten-free Thai buffet with plenty of vegan options at

MONTAVILLA

About 5 miles (8 km) east of downtown, this charming neighborhood features shops, tasty treats and a historic movie theater. Open since 1948, the Academy Theater (7818 SE Stark St.) offers second-run flicks and slices from neighboring Flying Pie Pizzeria (7804 SE Stark St.).

Ya Hala (8005 SE Stark St.), founded as a deli counter in 1999, has grown into one of the city’s most beloved Lebanese restaurants. With a focus on Thai-Chinese food, noodles and seafood, Yaowarat (7937 SE Stark St.) should not be missed.

Find preloved kids’ clothes and toys at Beanstalk (8021 SE Stark St.). Make a uniquely Portland fashion statement at Union Rose (8029 SE Stark St.), a women’s boutique stocked exclusively with locally made wares. Another only-inPortland experience awaits at

Zuckercreme

BELMONT

A few blocks north of Hawthorne, Belmont stretches to Mt. Tabor Park (SE 60th Ave. and SE Salmon St.), where you can enjoy views from atop one of Portland’s four extinct volcanoes.

Savor vegan dim sum at Jade Rabbit (2304 SE Belmont St.), tuck into Mexican classics while sipping generous margaritas at Taquería Los Puñales (3312 SE Belmont St.) or kick back

with European small plates and cocktails at Foxtrot (3244 SE Belmont St.).

Portland institution Movie Madness (4320 SE Belmont St.) doubles as a museum and offers obscure films and movie rentals. Escape to a time when video games (not to mention Skee-Ball and Whac-A-Mole) only cost a nickel at Wunderland (3457 SE Belmont St.).

Artifact

DIVISION/CLINTON

Film buffs should plan two stops here:

The Tomorrow Theater (3530 SE Division St.) pushes the boundaries of cinematic storytelling, incorporating at least two distinct art forms concurrently 24 nights each month. First opened in 1915, the Clinton Street Theater (2522 SE Clinton St.) screens indie and revival films and has hosted the world’s longest run of the Rocky Horror Picture Show, every Saturday night since 1978. Classic dive bar Reel M Inn (2430 SE Division St.) serves some of

Portland’s best fried chicken. Visit Better Days (3551 SE Division St.) for cold foam coffee, delicate pastries and pressed bagel sandwiches, or savor super fresh seafood at Jacqueline (2500 SE Clinton St.).

Shop for vintage treasures at Artifact ( 3630 SE Division St.) or art and zines at Secret Room ( 3225 SE Division St. ), and don’t miss Third-Eye Books ( 2518 SE 33rd Ave. ), Portland’s first Black-owned bookstore. End the night with gelato from Pinolo ( 3707 SE Division St. ).

FOSTER-POWELL

Pan-Asian bakery An Xuyên (5345 SE Foster Rd.) is a neighborhood favorite, serving banh mi, pastries and, if you’re lucky, spring rolls. For good vibes and a generous happy hour, head to Bruno’s (6258 SE Foster Rd.) — known for delicious cocktails, steak frites and a stacked chicken sandwich. Satisfy your sweet tooth next door at St. Francis Ice Cream (4515 SE 63rd Ave.) with creative vegan and dairy scoops and gluten-free cones.

Outdoor adventurers will want to peruse the impressive selection of new and consigned gear at Foster Outdoor (6615 SE Foster Rd. ). Don’t miss the verdant vibe at Larkspur (6317 SE Holgate Blvd.), a “magical plant shop” that also features local art and botanical curiosities. Dancers should check the schedule at Tango Berretin (6305 SE Holgate Blvd. ), where frequent social dances (not just tango!) often open with lessons for beginners.

WOODSTOCK

This walkable strip is home to Viking Soul Food (4422 SE Woodstock Blvd.), serving hearty Scandinavian fare like meatball lefse, and Cloud City Ice Cream (4525 SE Woodstock Blvd.), purveyor of some of Portland’s best scoops, or satisfy nearly any craving in your group with a visit to The Heist Bar & Food Carts (4727 SE Woodstock Blvd.), an expansive pod centered around a former bank and featuring ample indoor and outdoor seating.

Find a picnic’s worth of snacks at Otto’s Sausage Kitchen and Meat Market (4138 SE Woodstock Blvd.), a fourth-generation, family-run shop. Red Fox Vintage (4528 SE Woodstock Blvd.) houses a collection of goods from several secondhand vendors.

St. Francis Ice Cream

NORTH

PORTLAND’S SO-CALLED “Fifth Quadrant” is a lively patchwork of commercial districts, natural spaces and some of the city’s most charming neighborhoods, including St. Johns , Mississippi , Williams and Kenton . “NoPo” also boasts striking landmarks and attractions, like the historic St. Johns Bridge and the Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area — the largest protected wetlands within an American city, where you can see beavers, otters, turtles and deer. Near the district’s northern edge, you’ll find the Portland Expo Center ( 2060 N Marine Dr .) — home to some of Oregon’s largest events — and the Portland International Raceway ( 1940 N Victory Blvd. ), which hosts Indycar’s Grand Prix of Portland.

BY

Mississippi Studios

MISSISSIPPI

Along this stretch of great shops, restaurants and bars, you can hunt for rare records at Mississippi Records (5202 N Albina Ave.), get lost in the eclectic mix of antiques and novelties at Flutter (3948 N Mississippi Ave.) or treat yourself at queer-friendly adult toy shop SheBop (909 N Beech St., Suite A). Hungry? Food carts surround a German pub at Prost! Marketplace (4237 N Mississippi Ave.), and Rangoon Bistro (3747 N Mississippi Ave.) offers Burmese bites like lahpet (fermented tea leaves) and chickpea-based tofu. Keep the night going and catch some live music at Mississippi Studios (3939 N Mississippi Ave.).

WILLIAMS

A few blocks east of Mississippi, Williams bustles with great food and drink. Warm up with coffee and cocktails at Either/Or (4003 N Williams Ave.) before chowing down Southern style at Eat: An Oyster Bar (3808 N Williams Ave.) or trying Thaimeets-Texas-barbecue at Eem (3808 N Williams Ave.). Next door, shop for vintage finds at Circle Round (3808 N Williams Ave.) or gender-neutral clothing at Monochromatic (4026 N Williams Ave.). Or craft your own Portland souvenir while enjoying local beer and wine at DIY Bar (3522 N Vancouver Ave.).

ST. JOHNS

At the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, leafy St. Johns exudes small-town charm with lots of locally owned shops, pubs and cafés. Pack a picnic blanket for an afternoon in Cathedral Park (N Edison St. and Pittsburg Ave.), beneath the picturesque St. Johns Bridge. Find your next read and your next knitting project at Two Rivers Bookstore, which shares space with Weird Sisters Yarn (8636 N Lombard St.), or shop handcrafted ceramics, textiles and candles at Lyko Slow Goods (7413 N Lombard St.). Fuel up with glutenfree Korean fare at Yuginong (8539 N Lombard St.), then head to The Fixin’ To (8218 N Lombard St.) — a “respectable dive bar” with a full slate of arcade games.

KENTON

Right off the MAX Light Rail Yellow Line, Kenton welcomes you with its unmissable Paul Bunyan statue (N Denver and N Interstate Avenues). For caffeine and breakfast sandwiches hearty enough for the hungry, hit up Posies Bakery & Café (8208 N Denver Ave.), where parents can linger thanks to a dedicated kids’ playroom. Catch a band at The Off Beat (8440 N Interstate Ave.), a new all-ages venue, get your art fix at the Oregon Contemporary (8371 N Interstate Ave.) and shop for handmade ceramics at Mantel (8202 N Denver Ave.) or vintage vinyl at Speck’s Records & Tapes (8216 N Denver Ave.).

SOUTHWEST & SOUTH

MOST VISITS TO Portland include some time in bustling, walkable Downtown, which boasts a high concentration of hotels, shops, restaurants and attractions. To the west, Goose Hollow is home to Old Portland architecture and soccer matches at Providence Park, while Multnomah Village provides small-town vibes. In the West Hills, Washington Park comprises many green spaces and attractions, including the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden.

Minutes from downtown, the South Waterfront district is where you’ll find the Portland Aerial Tram and Tilikum Crossing, a car-free bridge spanning the Willamette River.

DOWNTOWN PORTLAND

Downtown Portland is the colorful center of the City of Roses. Its many hotels and central location make it a great place to stay, while small blocks and plentiful public transportation options make exploring a breeze. Enjoy attractions like the Oregon Historical Society (1200 SW Park Ave.) and the renowned Portland Art Museum (1219 SW Park Ave.). Tax-free shopping runs the gamut from design-focused Canoe (1233 SW 12th Ave.) and boutique Frances May (521 SW 10th Ave.) to high-end brands at Pioneer Place (700 SW Fifth Ave.) and Union Way (1022 W Burnside St.). Come

mealtime, head to Flock Food Hall (921 SW Oak St.), where you can peruse a global smorgasbord ranging from birria tacos to Hong Kong–style dim sum, or Dolly Olive (527 SW 12th Ave.) for heartyyet-healthy Southern Mediterranean fare (Think Italian with a twist.).

For a classic Portland experience, enjoy seafood at Jake’s Famous Crawfish (401 SW 12th Ave.) or combine city views with happy hour deals at Portland City Grill (111 SW Fifth Ave.), 30 floors up. Still thirsty? Visit The Cart Blocks (770 W Burnside St.), where a double-decker bus houses a pub, or The Green Room (1124 SW Alder St.) for a refined cocktail.

GOOSE HOLLOW

Just west of downtown — and far removed from its history of plank roads and literal geese — Goose Hollow blends historic architecture and modern flourishes.

Visit Gilda’s (1601 SW Morrison St.) for a hearty bowl of pasta or Goose Hollow Inn (1927 SW Jefferson St.) for a Reuben and a pint. Sip classic cocktails at the Driftwood Room (729 SW 15th Ave.), a Portland landmark since 1954, then join enthusiastic soccer fans at Providence Park (1844 SW Morrison St.), home to the Timbers and Thorns. Or get in the game yourself at Mox Boarding House (1938 W Burnside St.), where you can pair tabletop adventures like Dungeons & Dragons with elevated bar bites and booze.

MULTNOMAH VILLAGE

Just 6 miles (9.7 km) south of downtown, quaint streets evoke small-town life. Dining options range from Portland classics like Fat City Cafe (7820 SW Capitol Hwy.) to the food carts at the French Quarter (3518 SW Multnomah Blvd.). Finish your village visit by shopping at Switch (7863 SW Capitol Hwy.) for shoes and clothes, Thinker Toys (7784 SW Capitol Hwy.) for kids’ fun or Annie Bloom’s Books (7834 SW Capitol Hwy.) for family-friendly books and gifts.

PHOTO BY KALISA VEER/UNSPLASH

Portland Aerial Tram

SOUTH WATERFRONT

This sliver of a district is dominated by new highrises and defined by an attraction that rises above them all: the Portland Aerial Tram (3303 S Bond Ave.). Reach the tram via Portland Streetcar or MAX Light Rail; this neighborhood is very well connected, transit-wise. In fact, it boasts the country’s only bridge dedicated to light-rail, buses, bicycles and pedestrians — no cars allowed. The striking Tilikum Crossing (trimet.org/tilikum) connects the South Waterfront and Central Eastside districts and offers great downtown views and nighttime illumination. Refuel with hearty stews and patacones at Amora Ecuadorian Bistro (2823 SW 1st Ave.) or fine Lebanese food at Al-Hawr (3500 S River Pkwy.).

A 15-minute light-rail ride from downtown, Washington Park (explorewashingtonpark.org) offers a zoo, a rose garden, an arboretum and an authentic Japanese garden, all bordered by the urban wilderness of Forest Park.

FOR THE KIDS

Polar bears, river otters and lions all draw crowds to the Oregon Zoo (4001 SW Canyon Rd.). But the biggest stars are the Asian elephants, who enjoy a state-of-the-art habitat that lets visitors see them up close.

Forests have never been more interesting, thanks to the World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum (4033 SW Canyon Rd.), a dramatic wooden building where visitors get a bird’s-eye view of the trees and learn about sustainability.

Washington Park

A Community of Destinations

The Rose Garden Children’s Playground (1700 SW Sherwood Blvd.) dazzles with slides, giant castle structures, ramps, bridges and swings.

GARDENS GALORE

Get to the root of Portland’s Rose City moniker at the International Rose Test Garden (400 SW Kingston Ave.), where peak bloom season runs from late May to September. The

multi-tiered grounds amaze yearround with stunning views of Mt. Hood and Portland’s skyline. Striking paths lead you to the Portland Japanese Garden (611 SW Kingston Ave.) with its eight unique gardens set among cherry trees and Japanese maples.

Nearby Hoyt Arboretum (4000 SW Fairview Blvd.) is a botanic garden, nature education hub and tree museum with miles of trails for exploration.

SOLEMN MEMORIALS

The curved black granite wall of the Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial (4000 SW Canyon Rd.), inscribed with the names of 800 Oregonians who died or went missing in action, was inspired by the famed monument in Washington, D.C.

The Oregon Holocaust Memorial (SW Washington Way and Wright Ave.) spurs quiet reflection with its scattered bronze casts representing victims’ belongings and a wall engraved with quotes from survivors.

NOTE: Parking at Washington Park is extremely limited. The best ways to reach the park are MAX Light Rail, a free shuttle and the bus.

FOOD & DRINK

CLAS SIC Portland Plates

These iconic Rose City restaurants serve the best, from home-style cooking to elegant eats.

BY EMILLY PRADO

START YOUR MORNING with a tall stack of flapjacks, fried eggs and a steaming cup of joe at Fuller’s Coffee Shop (136 NW Ninth Ave.), a charming, no-frills diner revered for its dedication to lunch counter service and classic, allAmerican fare. Opened in 1947, patrons can still hop right on up to any open stool.

Murata Restaurant (200 SW Market St.) is a family-owned downtown establishment that’s been serving traditional Japanese cuisine from fresh sushi sets to rich tonkatsu ramen, delicate squid, chewy natto and comforting bowls of ochazuke since 1988. Diners can opt for bar or dining room seating, or try to snag the often-booked private tatami rooms.

Hà VL (2738 SE 82nd Ave., Unit 102) keeps things simple: Two or three mouthwatering soups rotate daily. From bún moc (peppery pork balls) to mì quang (turmeric noodle soup), all have contributed to multiple James Beard Award nominations, and most tend to sell out by noon.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY

PHOTO BY THOMAS

Noshin theCity

The true romance of having a little treat before having another little treat.

BY MARINA MARTINEZ-BATEMAN

AT ICE QUEEN , an ever-changing paleta case awaits you at the Southeast storefront. Each paleta, a handcrafted work of art, echoes owner Rebecca Smith’s rich Latine heritage. If you like sweet and spicy, get the mangonada — juicy mango mixed with sour chamoy and a hint of chili. 2012 SE 11th Ave. Charcuterie is the main course at Cheese & Crack Snack Shop. Its signature “cheese and crack” plates pair international cheeses with housemade rustic butter crackers, plus a baguette, oatmeal cookies and a variety of dipping sauces. Their famous soft-serve is also a fan favorite, with a variety of topping options, including a chocolate hat! 22 SE 28th Ave.

Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, Goodies Snack Shop is a snack-focused market that marries the nostalgic flavors of childhood with today’s hottest tastes. Although snacks are their specialty, you can also pick up pantry staples like ramen, coffee and tea, as well as travel-friendly K-beauty products. 139 NW Second Ave.

Savor the glory

Thecity’srosterof renowned chefs and eateries continues to expand.

FROM EXQUISITE PASTRIES TO seasonally focused pizza and impeccable cocktails, Portland’s James Beard Foundation–recognized establishments are must-visits.

Sophisticated yet unpretentious, Scotch Lodge — a 2025 finalist for Outstanding Bar — excels at whiskey-centric libations, and its innovative bites menu is also top-notch. Don’t pass up the dill pickle–flavored fries and fried brie sticks. 215 SE Ninth Ave. #102

Langbaan, with its elevated small-plate Thai tasting menu, clinched the 2024 Outstanding Restaurant Award. Langbaan translates to “back of the house,” where the intimate 24-seat restaurant is tucked behind the adjoining Phuket Cafe. Sit at the bar to watch chefs plate stunning seasonal dishes like Hokkaido scallop-topped kanom krok and black cod papaya salad. 1818 NW 23rd Pl.

Among Portland’s James Beard semifinalists, Han Oak (511 NE 24th Ave.) serves upscale renditions of familiar Korean classics like kimbap and hot pot that change out based on the chefs’ whims.

At Lovely’s Fifty Fifty (4039 N Mississippi Ave.), sourdough pizzas come with unexpected, elegant arrangements of foraged flowers, fresh greens and wild mushrooms; leave room for dessert — creamy, homemade ice creams vary with the seasons.

OK Omens (1758 SE Hawthorne Blvd.) indulges wine lovers with oyster happy hours and seafood plates, while Le Pigeon (738 E Burnside St.) delights with French-inspired bites like seasonal terrines and profiteroles.

ENOUSDININ G FROMTHE

I N D I G

Savor fry bread tacos and mezcal cocktails at Portland’s only First Foods restaurant.

BY ELLEE THALHEIMER

CHEF ALEXA NUMKENA-ANDERSON

learned to cook from her grandmother on the Yakama Reservation in Washington state. “She told me, ‘Making fry bread is a feeling.’ Javelina embraces that style of cooking; it reflects my Indigenous experience.”

After attending Le Cordon Bleu culinary school and working in fast casual and fine dining, Numkena-Anderson opened Javelina (4636 NE 42nd Ave.) with her husband in 2025. Javelina is Portland’s only First Foods restaurant, serving Indigenous foods eaten before European contact, such as blue corn someviki. This traditional Hopi dish features masa steamed inside a corn husk with huitlacoche (a corn fungus delicacy), cacao chili sauce, and

a maple-braised duck leg.

H E A R T

The menu also elevates Indigenous ingredients like manoomin, a wild rice. Traditionally hand-harvested in the Ojibwe and Anishinaabe custom, it’s the star of the Sun Bowl, which includes Mayan-influenced sikil pak sauce, heirloom beans, puffed amaranth, and tribal-caught salmon.

Javelina sources ingredients from wild foragers and local farmers and also "gives the Native populations around Portland the opportunity to know these foods. That is a powerful act of caring for ourselves and our families.”

For a fine-dining experience, Inisha, Javelina’s reservation-only, prix fixe sister restaurant in the same space, is open on Tuesday nights.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

Crafting Community

withaGeekyTwist

This brewery creates a welcoming space for gamers and non-gamers alike.

ELLIOTT KAPLAN AND Jess Hardie started homebrewing a decade ago, eventually bringing their small-batch ales and lagers to Dungeons & Dragons game nights with friends. They enjoyed marrying their love of craft beer and tabletop games so much that in 2023, along with Dana Ebert, they opened TPK Brewing Co (5051 SE Hawthorne Blvd.), serving many low-alcohol beers, creative cocktails and nonalcoholic offerings alongside South American dishes from En Vida DLC.

At the two-story, familyfriendly pub, plants drape from exposed beams, and a brick oven’s fire keeps the place cozy year-round. A full-time staff of professional gamemasters

PHOTOS BY THOMAS TEAL

runs various tabletop roleplaying games (“Total Party Kill” [TPK] is a D&D term, after all), but Kaplan affirms all are welcome, “even if gaming isn’t your thing.”

Rip City? More Like Drip City!

Three standouts in beanbrew-obsessed Portland.

BY MARINA MARTINEZBATEMAN

The owners of Kalesa Coffee explore their heritage through a unique menu featuring popular Filipino flavors like ube and coconut, and specials inspired by desserts and drinks from the Philippines. They also partner with local bakers like The Kalat House so you can enjoy a sweet treat with your brew. 722 N Page St.

Tov Coffee, which once occupied an iconic double-decker bus, now serves up Egyptian-inspired coffee in a cozy space full of Mediterranean flair. If you want the authentic Egyptian/Turkish coffee experience, stick around — brewing time is 8 minutes, so kick back and enjoy the atmosphere. 3639 SE Hawthorne Blvd.

For the owners of Kilo D’Cofi, cafecito means community. Drawing inspiration from their upbringings in Zacatecas, Puebla, and South Central Los Angeles, they pride themselves not just on their ethically sourced Mexican beans or their prized pan dulce, but on their Mexican hospitality. Their famous Cookie Cortado is only available for limited hours on weekends; make sure to get there early. 600 SW Pine St.

ILLUSTRATION BY MIKA RANE

ILLUSTRATION

The Perfect Pour

Sample Oregon’s worldfamous wines at urban wineries and stylish bars.

Now on Tap

Sip your way through Portland’s legendary craft beer scene.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

ENSO Winery serves pinot noir, rosé and other housemade wines — crafted with grapes from Pacific Northwest vineyards — in an airy tasting room. Pair your pour with a refreshing menu of light bites. 1416 SE Stark St.

Amaterra sits in Portland’s forested West Hills and crafts its acclaimed wines with cutting-edge techniques — all of which pairs well with vineyard views and a regionally inspired food menu. 8150 SW Swede Hill Dr.

Seven Bridges Winery sources grapes from throughout the Pacific Northwest for a variety of French-inspired pours, such as petit verdot, cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay. 2303 N Harding Ave.

Pairings Portland Wine Shop & Bar takes a playful, pop culture-inspired approach; some flights are chosen to line up with astrology signs, while another pays homage to the cult classic film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. 455 NE 24th Ave. —MW

Sip old-school and cutting-edge lagers on a sun-kissed patio at Wayfinder Beer. The brewery’s globe-trotting lineup of lagers (along with a handful of IPAs and non-alcoholic taps) pairs well with a sandwich-focused menu that includes burgers and bánh mì.

304 SE Second Ave.

When Ground Breaker Brewing opened in 2011, it was the first dedicated gluten-free brewery in the United States. Sample the small-batch ales and lagers alongside a lineup of gluten-free pupusas from Salvi PDX, which runs the brewpub kitchen.

2030 SE Seventh Ave.

Get familiar with Portland’s craft beer scene at some of the city’s best taprooms. The English-inspired Horse Brass Pub (4534 SE Belmont St.) has been pouring a curated selection of craft brews since 1976, and Belmont Station (4500 SE Stark St.) has spotlighted new breweries and regional stalwarts since 1997.

Occidental Brewing Co. has built a loyal following in the St. Johns neighborhood with an easy-drinking lineup of German-inspired brews — including a balanced pilsner and a hefeweizen that sports notes of banana. The house IPA, meanwhile, bursts with citrus and floral flavors. 6635 N Baltimore Ave.

FLAVOR PDX

Follow your appetite to distinctive eateries, global bites, and brilliant kitchens that locals love.

The Joel Palmer House Restaurant, Inc. 600 Ferry St.,

Dayton

In the heart of Oregon wine country. Fine dining, wild mushrooms, and the world’s largest Oregon-focused wine list. joelpalmerhouse.com

Mama Mia Trattoria | 439 SW 2nd Ave.

Classic Italian downtown Portland spot serving scratch-made pastas, sauces, and traditional dishes that highlight local and Italian wines with a menu that’s 90% gluten free.

mamamiatrattoria.com

Lansdowne | 1639 NW Marshall St.

Lansdowne’s new Northwest Portland location, opening early 2026, features elevated dishes by Chef Martin Pfeifer in a space celebrating good food and good people. lansdownepdx.com | @lansdownepdx

Alma | 5237 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Alma is Chef Vedran Jordan’s Balkan kitchen, where childhood memories, family recipes, bold spices, and Adriatic warmth meet Portland’s hyperlocal, seasonal Paci c Northwest ingredients.

almapdx.com | @almapdx

PIZZA KAT | 2174 W Burnside St.

PIZZA KAT is a neighborhood favorite o ering New York style pizza with local ingredients and vegan/gf options, plus cocktails and ice cream in a lively setting.

pizzakat.com | @pizzakatpizza

Tipsy Scoop | 3987 N Mississippi Ave.

A playful ice cream “barlour” serving boozy, cocktail-inspired scoops alongside non-alcoholic avors for kids and non-drinkers, perfect for family dessert stops in Portland.

tipsyscoop.com

The Rose Cityembraces creativity and talent.

Portland Art Museum

CULTURE

IndigenousArts inPortland

Celebrate the rich diversity of art, culture and

PORTLAND IS HOME to the one of the largest urban Indigenous populations in the United States. You don’t have to go far here to engage with Native arts and culture.

The NAYA Family Center organizes Native-made marketplaces, its annual Neerchokikoo Powwow in September, culture nights, and pop-ups with local entrepreneurs and artisans. 5135 NE Columbia Blvd.

At its Center for Native Arts and Cultures, the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation empowers Indigenous communities and artists through grants, fellowships, exhibitions, film screenings and free

monthly tours. 800 SE 10th Ave.

The Native-owned and operated Quintana Galleries features a diverse collection of First Nations, Native American, Arctic and Mexican art online or by appointment. quintanagalleries.com

The Portland Art Museum’s Native American art collection includes thousands of objects representing the experiences of some 200 Indigenous cultural groups. Its 21st-century acquisitions include work from such prominent artists as Wendy Red Star (Apsáalooke), Will Wilson (Diné) and Julie Buffalohead (Ponca). 1219 SW Park Ave.

Portland Chinatown Museum

Past, Present & Future

These institutions illuminate Portland’s diverse history and set its course forward.

BY ELLEE THALHEIMER

OREGON HAS BEEN HOME to people of Asian descent for more than 175 years. The Portland Chinatown Museum (127 NW Third Ave.) shares stories and artifacts from the city’s historic Chinatown with intricate displays of everyday objects, clothing and dramatic vignettes. A few short blocks away, the Japanese American Museum of Oregon (411 NW Flanders St.) preserves the history of Japanese Americans in the Pacific Northwest and illuminates

such harsh realities as their internment during World War II.

Also within walking distance is another cultural space honoring Portland’s diverse history: The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education (724 NW Davis St.) encourages intercultural conversations and explores the history of discrimination in the region and the legacy of the Holocaust through the lens of Oregon survivors.

Curtains Up AWESOME ATHLETICS

Experience Portland’s eclectic onstage magic.

BY AMY LAM

Built in 1917, the Keller Auditorium is a cultural cornerstone, renowned for hosting Broadway hits and performances by the Oregon Ballet and Portland Opera. Have a little time before or after a show? Head across the street to the decorative fountains at Keller Park, a playful and refreshing urban oasis.

222 SW Clay St.

While Kickstand Comedy is best known for hosting the wildly popular summer Comedy in the Park (see p. 16), its black box theater is home to the city’s best improv, stand-up and variety shows. The nonprofit prides itself on being a hub where local comedians can experiment, get weird and get laughs. 1006 SE Hawthorne Blvd.

Housed in a centuryold church, Portland Playhouse is a community space focused on sharing diverse works. From classics to contemporary plays and musicals, the theater’s intimate setting creates an immersive and memorable connection between audiences and the story unfolding before them.

602 NE Prescott St.

Portland’s sports teams are a whole vibe.

PORTLAND FIRE An epicenter for women’s sports, Portland can’t wait to champion its new WNBA team. Almost a year before the inaugural season (starting May 2026), eager fans reserved over 10,000 season tickets. Moda Center, 1 N Center Court St.

PICKLES The fervent fan culture is half the fun each summer, when college athletes come to town to play woodbat baseball for the Portland Pickles. Each game is an accessible, joyous, family-friendly affair, and the mascot is quite literally a giant pickle! Walker Stadium, 4727 SE 92nd Ave.

ROSE CITY ROLLERS Fans pack into The Hangar at Oaks Park to see smart, tough women, girls and gender-expansive individuals compete at roller derby — a full-contact, fast-paced sport played on quad roller skates. 7805 SE Oaks Park Way

TRAIL BLAZERS Portland has seen lots of famous NBA players over the decades: Clyde Drexler, Bill Walton, Scottie Pippen and Damian Lillard among them. But regardless of the team’s roster, Rip City energy is always high thanks to fan-friendly competitions and mascot antics. Moda Center, 1 N Center Court St.

THORNS Women’s soccer fans in general and, in particular, the Rose City Riveters (the die-hard Portland Thorns FC supporters’ group) have plenty to cheer about. Since joining the National Women’s Soccer League in 2013, the Thorns have won two NWSL shields and three championships. Providence Park, 1844 SW Morrison St.

TIMBERS It doesn’t matter if you’re an avid soccer spectator or a novice; watching a Portland Timbers game is always a thrilling — and, for some, a religious — experience. Wear green and gold and sit with PTFC super fans in the Timbers Army section for nonstop chanting, drumming and flag waving. Providence Park, 1844 SW Morrison St.

PRESS PLAY

Listen to some of Portland’s stunning new sounds.

Mel Brown at Jack London Revue

Aminé

Genre: Hip-hop

Album: 13 Months of Sunshine

Vibe: Cocktails, soul food and dancing at After Ours

Portland’s Heart and Soul

Oh Rose

Genre: Indie rock

Album: Dorothy

Vibe: Cinematic, witchy and ’90s reminiscent

Albina Music Trust (various artists)

Genre: Soul

Album: Soul Assembly

Vibe: Dinner date and a stroll on NE Alberta

Keeks

Genre: Experimental hip-hop/R&B Album: Gwendolyn

Vibe: Femme-empowered rap meets soulful slow jams –JM

Experience music from the city’s Black community at these integral venues.

THE HISTORY OF black music in Portland mostly centers on jazz clubs and an array of jazz musicians, including Esperanza Spalding, Dave Frishberg, Mel Brown and Jim Pepper. Today, standout figures

from Portland’s younger hip-hop, soul and R&B scene are breaking out and putting the Rose City on the map — from mainstream and mainstream-bound hip-hop stars like ILoveMakonnen to local soul fixtures

Live From Portland

Soak up local music and touring acts at these vital venues.

BY JENNI MOORE

Zyah Belle and Blossom to jazzinformed acts like trumpeter Farnell Newton and instrumental quartet Greaterkind.

The Jack London Revue is one of the city’s last-standing dedicated jazz venues. The downtown, speakeasy-style club hosts local residencies, plus soul, R&B and hip-hop touring acts. 529 SW Fourth Ave. Mississippi Studios

Conveniently attached to the expansive Bar Bar restaurant (and bar), this intimate venue welcomes locally beloved and internationally acclaimed acts. 3939 N Mississippi Ave.

Revolution Hall

This high-school-turnedperformance-venue regularly hosts celebrated stars of comedy and music. The Roof Deck Bar offers a stunning view of the downtown skyline and is a mustvisit from April to October. 1300 SE Stark St.

Bought by drummer Tyrone Hendrix and Monica Mast in 2022, Alberta Street Pub is now Oregon’s sole Blackowned music venue. The vibes here are relaxed and familial; music goes down in a small showroom behind the bar or on a sprawling patio fitted with twinkle lights. 1036 NE Alberta St.

Nearby, Alberta Abbey hosts events from all-ages concerts (produced by local nonprofit Friends of Noise) to open mics, art fairs and benefit shows. 126 NE Alberta St.

Additionally, visit the Albina Music Trust (albinamusictrust. com) — a community archive dedicated to the restoration of musical culture from Portland’s historically Black neighborhood — for a schedule of its special musical events. –JM

The Get Down

In addition to attracting touring bands, this state-of-the-art sound space is also home to the local ballroom scene and hosts regular drag events. 680 SE Sixth St.

McMenamins

Crystal Ballroom

This historic venue has a musical legacy of presenting major touring acts since the 1960s. Its smaller Lola’s Room hosts DJed dance parties and seated performances. 1332 W Burnside St.

Come Out Tonight

Enjoy the hottest queer nightlife in the Rose City.

BY JAMIE CATTANACH

Peacock PDX

The self-described “super gay” bar welcomes with drag shows, queer open mics, queer comedy shows and dance parties. Alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverage options are available, plus gluten-free and vegan bites. 1400 SE Morrison St.

Back2Earth

Dancing is awesome — duh — but it’s not the only thing queer people get together to do. At Northeast Portland’s Back2Earth, gather for craft nights, bingo, Dyke Nite, Hikers Happy Hours and more (including dancing). 3536 NE MLK Jr. Blvd.

Darcelle XV Showplace

Darcelle’s legendary drag queen legacy lives on at the Showplace, which hosts four drag shows a week (plus Sunday brunch, of course). 208 NW Third Ave.

Local color

Tax-free shopping means more goodies in your bag!

LOCALLY MADE TREASURES

Take home something special from our backyard.

BY MARINA MARTINEZ-BATEMAN

IF YOU MAKE only one stop for Portland souvenirs, MadeHere is it. This large, gallery-like shop stocks around 8,000 products — from soap to satchels, home goods to hot sauce — from nearly 200 local artisans. 40 NW 10th Ave.

Founded by musicians, Tender Loving Empire is a pastel paradise of creative creature comforts that began as a record label. Its six Portland-area stores feature products from over 700 makers who craft in a multitude of mediums, from piano to paint to pasta. Multiple locations

Tender LovingEmpire

Crafty Wonderland hosts multiday, ticketed spring and winter markets at the Oregon Convention Center, and offers a year-round selection of local arts and crafts at its stores in the Alberta Arts District and downtown.

Amity Artisan Goods serves as a hub for marginalized artists from diverse backgrounds who live and work by their motto, “Together we are stronger.”

Located on the MAX line downtown, this store is packed with beautiful goods from a variety of cultures and experiences. 962 SW Morrison St.

A Diversity of Thrift

In a sea of secondhand stunners, these shops stand out.

SOUTHEAST HAWTHORNE

Boulevard has long been the epicenter of secondhand shopping in the Rose City, and these three shops offer the best of the best.

House of Vintage is a vintage mall with more than 60 independent dealers in a 13,000-square-foot (1,208 sq m) store. It specializes in vintage clothing, shoes and accessories, but you’ll also find a variety of home goods, furniture, art, pop culture ephemera and collectibles. 3315 SE Hawthorne Blvd.

I Want Seconds started as a pop-up in the owner’s

garage that became a vibrant love letter to Portland’s fat community. Secondhand clothes start at size 14/XL and go up as high as possible for all genders. This affirming space is also a well-known favorite of several local drag stars. 3204 SE Hawthorne Blvd.

Midtowners Market is a community-centered vintage and maker market that focuses on hosting new vendors and artists. This welcoming space fosters collaboration in the maker scene. 1736 SE Hawthorne Blvd. —MMB

Go treasure hunting in Portland’s local shops, and nd just what you’re looking for.

Alchemy

Jeweler | 1022 NW Lovejoy St.

Portland’s premier jewelry store, Alchemy o ers ne hand-crafted collectibles and one-of-a-kind treasures. Visit their showroom and workshop in the Pearl District. alchemyjeweler.com

Crafty Wonderland 2022 NE Alberta St. | 808 SW 10th Ave.

Crafty Wonderland is your go-to place for handmade local goods. Find amazing gifts and souvenirs that represent the best of Portland’s creative community.

craftywonderland.com

Tender Loving Empire | 412 SW 10th Ave.

Handmade Goods. Records. Step into our gift shop, a year-round maker’s market featuring 500+ local and indie makers. Find us at other stores on NW 23rd, Hawthorne, and PDX Airport.

tenderlovingempire.com

Paci c Holiday | 4443 NE Fremont St.

Paci c Holiday is where Portland’s stylists, designers, and musicians shop for secondhand clothing and accessories. Spend the day strolling the historic Beaumont district.

paci cholidaypdx.com | @paci cholidaypdx

Tattoo 34 | 4035 SE Hawthorne Blvd.

A welcoming, unique tattoo shop focused on custom and ash tattoos, and quality artistry in a beautiful, inclusive space, with walk-in days Wednesday and Sunday.

tattoo34pdx.com | @tattoo34pdx

Tracee’s House of Whatever 2475 SE 30th Ave., Unit 103

Tracee’s is your one-stop-shop for souvenirs, gifts, novelties, toys, specialty candy, or WHATEVER! Tracee’s is proud to feature local PDX artists on consignment! @tracees-house-of-whatever

TOP-SHELF LOCAL BOOKSTORES

ThirdEyeBooks

PORTLAND’S INCLUSIVE LITERARY scene thrives thanks to our bustling creative community, book lovers and sellers, and the spectacular indie stores that bring them all together. It’s no wonder Powell’s City of Books (1005 W Burnside St.), the largest independent bookstore in the world, picked an entire city block to call home. Here are a few other favorites.

Third Eye Books

Accessories & Gifts

This literary hub centering Black authors and stories was Portland’s only Black-owned bookstore when it opened in 2019. Offering vibrant children’s books, tarot decks and anti-racist reads for all ages. 2518 SE 33rd Ave.

Always Here

This proudly worker-owned bookstore exclusively stocks queer books and works by queer

and trans authors. Shop their gift selection of cozy socks, radical stickers and cute mugs. 4555 N Williams Ave.

Rose City Book Pub

What’s better than a cozy bookstore? A stellar bookstorebistro-bar with a menu full of classic café fare. Be sure to check out the robust events calendar and celebrated local author collection. 1329 NE Fremont St.

Grand Gesture Books

This queer, Black woman–owned bookshop specializes in romance novels and books all about love — platonic, diverse and inclusive. Find your next favorite read and don’t forget to snag a mural selfie. 814 SW 10th Ave.

Vivienne Culinary Books

Delightful cookware, indie food magazines, and new and rare cookbooks share shelf space in

Get lost in the stacks at these beloved independent shops.

BY EMILLY PRADO

this inviting storefront curating all things culinary. Browse the stacks and stay for a cooking class. 2724 NE Alberta St.

Literary Arts Bookstore

Sunlight streams into this new bookstore from beloved local nonprofit Literary Arts. Enjoy a small but impressive literature selection, café seating and a modest coffee shop menu, plus ongoing author events and community readings.

716 SE Grand Ave.

INDIGENOUS INGENUITY

From beauty to beads to basketball shorts, shop small and promote Native entrepreneurs.

BY JAMIE CATTANACH

Back to the Basket

Grand Ronde tribal member Troy Douglass manifested his love of the game in this sleekly curated basketball boutique. Buy, sell or trade memorabilia and new and vintage apparel (including pre-owned sneakers!). 3405 SE Hawthorne Blvd.

Coral Story Beauty

Founded by Morning Dove Barranger (above) of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of Montana, this chic-yetapproachable oasis in the heart of

bustling Southeast offers organic skincare, makeup, accessories and professional beauty services. 3370 SE Division St.

A Bead Source

This beloved standby for committed crafters — or those interested in perusing the company’s collection of greeting cards, tarot and oracle decks — has been open for more than 30 years. Browse glass and stone beads, freshwater pearls, Native American regalia supplies and sterling silver jewelry. 15831 SE Division St.

InternationalRoseTestGarden

Portland’sparks andgardens arecalling.

FOUR SEASONS OFFUN

There’s no bad time to enjoy the outdoors around Portland.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

WINTER SPORTS

When the snow piles up, Mt. Hood — Oregon’s tallest peak — turns into a winter wonderland, about 70 miles (113 km) from Portland. Try cross-country skiing at Trillium Lake, take the family tubing at Mt. Hood Skibowl (87000 US Route 26, Government Camp) or hit the slopes at one of the mountain’s five ski resorts.

SPRING BLOOMS

Hike among wildflowers at Tryon Creek State Natural Area (11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd.) and stand under fluttering cherry blossoms in Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park (98 SW Naito Pkwy.).

SUMMER PICNICS

Unfurl a blanket and soak in the summer sun at scenic picnic spots around Portland — including Council Crest Park (1120 SW Council Crest Dr.), which boasts sweeping city views, and Jamison Square (810 NW 11th Ave.) — home to a kid-friendly interactive fountain.

FALL COLOR

Find vibrant fall foliage in the Japanese maple trees at Hoyt Arboretum (4000 SW Fairview Blvd.), throughout the Portland Japanese Garden (611 SW Kingston Ave.) and in downtown’s South Park Blocks.

Parks Across Portland

Escape into nature — relax and explore urban forests, colorful gardens and other scenic sites.

MORE THAN 200 PARKS and gardens pepper the city of Portland, where forests, ponds and skyline views provide the perfect backdrop for picturesque picnics, lazy afternoons and romantic nights out.

Forest Park

Willamette River. N Edison St. and N Pittsburg Ave.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

One of the city’s most photographed sites is Cathedral Park, which sits at the base of the emerald-hued St. Johns Bridge in its namesake neighborhood. A new dock, installed in 2024, makes it easier than ever to take a dip or launch your kayak in the

Peninsula Park has been a North Portland institution since 1909 — and recalls the city’s stately past through lantern-style streetlights, stone pillars, an ornate fountain and the community’s oldest public rose garden. 700 N Rosa Parks Way

Summit an extinct volcano at Mt. Tabor, where more than 5 miles (8 km) of trails climb to the top of a cinder cone. Catch your

Dance party at Peninsula Park

breath while admiring views of the downtown skyline and Mt. Hood. SE 60th Ave. and SE Salmon St.

Spend a quiet afternoon strolling through Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden in the Eastmoreland neighborhood. The garden houses more than 2,500 rhododendrons — which turn vibrant hues of white, purple and pink between late April and early May — as well as azaleas and other plants that dazzle all year long. 5801 SE 28th Ave.

Get an up-close view of the area’s incredible biodiversity at Leach Botanical Garden, which borders Johnson Creek in Southeast Portland. The park is home to about 2,000 species of plants. Use the elevated walkway, known as the Aerial Tree Walk, to savor it all. 6704 SE 122nd Ave.

Studded with native trees, Laurelhurst Park covers 32 wooded acres (13 ha) near the Belmont neighborhood in Southeast Portland. Visitors can

walk around a spring-fed pond and let dogs run off the zoomies in an off-leash play area. SE Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. and SE Stark St.

Just northwest of downtown, Forest Park measures 8 miles (13 km) at its longest point, covers a whopping 5,200 acres (2,104 ha) and is among the largest urban parks in the United States. Soak it up along more than 80 miles (129 km) of trails. forestparkconservancy.org

Into the Woods

Local hiking trails showcase forests, skyline views and urban beauty.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

WHEREVER YOU ARE in Portland, you’re never far from hiking trails that show off our urban forests.

Tryon Creek State Natural Area ( 11321 S Terwilliger Blvd. ) is Oregon’s only state park within a major city — offering creekside views, springtime wildflowers

and more along 8 miles (13 km) of gently graded footpaths.

More photo-worthy sights await at Council Crest Park ( SW Council Crest Drive ), one of the highest points in Portland. A nearly 6-mile (10 km) round-trip trail ascends the forested West Hills

before emerging at the sweeping summit.

Less than an hour east of downtown, a dozen miles (19 km) of trails head past thigh-high ferns and in the shadow of old-growth Douglas fir at Oxbow Regional Park (3010 SE Oxbow Parkway, Gresham).

Multnomah Falls + the Columbia Gorge Waterfall Corridor

Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s most visited natural attraction, drawing more than 10,000 visitors each day and offering just 250 parking spaces. The best way to enjoy it is to plan ahead. Booking a tour, shuttle, or e-bike lets you soak in the scenery without parking headaches, traffic, or permit stress.

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area features more than 90 waterfalls cascading down basalt cliffs into the Columbia River, with the Historic Columbia River Highway, built in 1915, thoughtfully designed to showcase these landscapes while preserving their beauty. Reserving an e-bike is a fun, low impact way to explore this delicate ecosystem, with daily availability and advance bookings at ebikemultnomahfalls.com.

Just 30 minutes from downtown Portland, Multnomah Falls requires seasonal timed entry permits for visitors arriving by car. Traveling by bike, shuttle, or guided tour does not require a permit and helps protect this treasured place for future explorers.

For shuttles and guided tours, visit waterfallshuttle.com.

ON THE WATER

Here’s how to have fun on the Willamette River all year long.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

THE WILLAMETTE RIVER — pronounced Will-AM-it — runs north-south through Portland, splitting the city in two and offering all kinds of fun, from summertime swimming holes to year-round wildlife-watching.

In spring and summer, grab a rental kayak or stand-up paddleboard from local outfitters and paddle around Ross Island — where you might spy hawks, mallards, great blue herons and other birds soaring overhead.

Bring your swimsuit and cool off in summer with a dip along quiet stretches of shoreline throughout the city. The Kevin Duckworth Memorial Dock (Eastbank Esplanade, between the Burnside and Steel Bridges), across from downtown, provides eight swim ladders and hosts a swimming hole that’s protected from passing boaters on the Willamette River. South Waterfront Park (S River Dr. and S Montgomery St.) sits at the foot of the Hawthorne Bridge near downtown and provides

PHOTO BY DUSTIN PATTISON

swimmers with a gentle grade and sandy shoreline. Before you head to the water, though, stay safe by knowing your limits, staying out of the water when it’s windy and limiting your time in chilly water — especially in May, June and September.

You can also enjoy the river while taking a pedalpowered tour with Paddle Pub Portland (paddlepub.com/ portland), relaxing in a floating hot tub from Yacht Tubs (yacht-tubs.com) or going for an adrenaline rush on a fast-paced tour with Willamette Jetboat Excursions (willamettejet.com). Throughout the year, the Portland Spirit (portlandspirit. com) offers sightseeing tours

In the Saddle

See Portland’s sights from people-powered vantage points.

WITH MORE THAN 400 miles (644 km) of bike lanes, protected paths and low-traffic streets (aka neighborhood greenways), Portland is home to a world-class cycling community.

Start your journey with Biketown, which provides more than 3,000 e-bikes and scooters at over 240 stations. The city has route suggestions for all skill levels — many of which travel past flowering gardens, hug the Willamette River waterfront and visit leafy parks.

Multiple fun group rides crisscross the city throughout the year. Make nearly 10 river crossings during August’s annual Providence Bridge Pedal, and enjoy our friendly neighborhoods on car-free roadways during Portland Sunday Parkways events in spring and summer. Between June and August, Pedalpalooza features hundreds of themed rides. –MW

The Wine Spa | 1517 NE Broadway Vinotherapy takes center stage at The Wine Spa with grape-infused massages, facials, and wine- lled soaking tubs. The only wine spa in the U.S., it was named one of Time’s World’s Greatest Places in 2025. winespapdx.com I @winespa_pdx

Hopscotch | 1020 SE 10th Ave. | 833.477.9229

Explore this immersive art-driven experience that inspires curiosity, connection, joy, and play. Go beyond your day-to-day reality and discover why Hopscotch was named one of USA Today’s 10 Best Immersive Art Experiences, and why PBS said it is a must-do bucket list item for Portland.

letshopscotch.com | @letshopscotch

Peak Tours and Transit | 503.208.4768

The passionate locals of Peak Tours and Transit o er ve-star sightseeing tours and small-group shuttle service in Portland and the Paci c Northwest, delivering unforgettable journeys. PeakToursAndTransit.com

From PCT backpacking to climbing Mt. St. Helens to moonlight snowshoeing on Mt. Hood, Rare Earth Adventures o ers unique experiences in the PNW and beyond. rareearthadventures.com

Squatch Out is a retail and adventure guide center in downtown Stevenson, WA. O ering outdoor gear and tour bookings, visit soon! squatchout.co Rare Earth Adventures 121 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale

Experience the Columbia River Gorge like never before. From tree to tree on our zipline tour to the Aerial Park, e-bike rentals, and axe throwing. zipnskamania.com

Kayaking in the Tualatin Valley

From the ocean to the mountains — it’s all within reach of Portland.

Downright Gorge-ous

Wide-open vistas, forests and waterfalls await in the Columbia River Gorge.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

HEADING INTO THE Columbia River Gorge (hood-gorge.com), roughly 30 miles (48 km) east of Portland, you don’t just leave the city behind — you immerse yourself in a real-life fairy tale.

Start by peering into the heart of the Gorge at the Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint. Nearby, Vista House at Crown Point shows off natural landmarks from atop a basalt outcrop overlooking the river.

Lace up your hiking boots for a closer look. Watch for native and migrating birds from along 8 miles (13 km) of trails that traverse the Sandy River Delta. Farther east, the 2.5-mile (4 km) Horsetail Falls Loop passes three thundering waterfalls.

Make your trip a car-free adventure. The Columbia Gorge Express connects Portland to Cascade Locks, Multnomah Falls and Hood River. The open-air Gray Line Waterfall Trolley stops at six waterfalls. And the Sasquatch Shuttle stops at several popular sites.

The best trips to the gorge are car-free!

Making Mountain Memories

Find fun in Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory (mthoodterritory.com).

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

SANDY

Make this your first pit stop as you head out of Portland. Stroll the Old West-inspired city’s downtown core; grab a snack at a local eatery, like the long-running Joe’s Donuts ( 39230 Pioneer Blvd .); enjoy wide-open views of Mt. Hood from Jonsrud Viewpoint Park (15652 Bluff Rd.) and pick up gear from a local outfitter for your adventures on the mountain.

THE VILLAGES AT MOUNT HOOD

Collectively, the communities of Rhododendron, Zigzag and Welches comprise the Villages at Mount Hood. They host several roadhouses; the Sandy Ridge Trail System (62700 E Barlow Trail Rd., Brightwood), popular among mountain bikers; and the fascinating Wildwood Recreation Site (65670 US 26, Welches), where underwater panels offer up-close views of spawning salmon every autumn.

Beyond the Vine

Quench your thirst adventuring through Oregon’s tastiest valley.

GOVERNMENT CAMP

This cozy community — about 60 miles (96.6 km) southeast of Portland — makes a fine starting point for mountain adventures. The iconic Timberline Lodge ( 27500 E Timberline Rd., Government Camp ) is home to the area’s highest-elevation ski slopes; Mt. Hood Skibowl ( 87000 US 26, Government Camp ) offers the nation’s largest night-skiing area.

THE TUALATIN VALLEY (tualatinvalley.org) sits at the northwestern edge of the Willamette Valley, where Portland’s suburbs give way to patchwork quilts of bucolic farmland and the Coast Range foothills — creating ideal growing conditions for some of Oregon’s bestloved wines.

Sip your way through Burgundian-style vines at Árdíri Winery and Vineyard (35040 SW Unger Rd., Cornelius), paired with stellar patio views of the Chehalem foothills. Apolloni Vineyards (14135 NW Timmerman Rd., Forest

Grove) produces signature pinot noir and several Italian-style wines — including the region’s only estate-grown sangiovese and pinot grigio.

Besides 40 wineries (and counting), the valley is home to two national trails; paddle through the Tualatin River Water Trail, or pedal past bridges, exquisite views and gentle elevation with the Banks-Vernonia State Trail After exploring the area’s eight nature parks, hit up one of two dozen breweries where thirsty travelers can imbibe everything from beer to sake and cider. —MW

ROAD T R IPPING

Get out of town and live like a local with these delightful jaunts.

BY MATTHEW WASTRADOWSKI

Sauvie Island

SAUVIE ISLAND

Just northwest of Portland, Sauvie Island is the largest island in the Columbia River — offering a mix of family farms, harvest festivals each fall, public beaches for sunbathing, and forest and wetlands hosting more than 250 species of wildlife.

ST. HELENS AND SCAPPOOSE

Further up the Columbia River, watch for bald eagles, herons and other waterfowl while paddling amid the marshes of Scappoose Bay, or follow an old logging route while cycling the Crown Zellerbach Trail (columbiacountyor.gov). Afterward, refuel at The Lodge Carts (51875 SW Old Portland Rd.) in Scappoose, where 11 food carts offer global eats and desserts.

GRESHAM AND TROUTDALE

At the eastern edge of the Portland region, Gresham (greshamchamber.org) and Troutdale are idyllic gateways to the Columbia River Gorge that offer plenty to love on their own. Gresham’s Main City Park (219 S Main Ave.) boasts leafy walking paths and the Gresham Japanese Garden, while Troutdale invites you to lounge along the Sandy River in several riverside parks. Enjoy a flat hike through the Sandy River Delta (Thousand Acres Road, Troutdale) and treat yourself with sweet eats at Sugarpine Drive-In (1208 E Historic Columbia River Highway, Troutdale).

Coastal Treasures

Plan a getaway to the rugged Oregon Coast — just two hours from Portland.

Cannon Beach is beloved for its inspiring galleries, creative culinary scene, resident elk herds and downtown boutiques. Enjoy miles of coastal hikes at Ecola State Park, grab a craft beer made with local ingredients at Public Coast Brewing Co. and savor panoramic views of Haystack Rock (a monolith and wildlife habitat) from the Stephanie Inn Dining Room

The historic fishing town of Astoria sits near the mouth of the Columbia River and retains its retro charm with a brick-lined downtown, family-friendly attractions (like the immersive Columbia River Maritime Museum), plenty of fresh seafood and community-minded craft breweries — including Buoy Beer Co.

Pick up a souvenir along Seaside’s bustling Broadway corridor, rent a bicycle for an easy ride along the Seaside Promenade (which parallels the Pacific Ocean), paddle the quiet Necanicum River or ride the mountain bike trails at Klootchy Creek Park. —MW visittheoregoncoast.com

YOU’VE DECIDED TO visit Portland! Excellent choice — now let’s help you plan. Get around using TriMet, Portland’s efficient and accessible public transportation system, or hop on a bike, e-scooter or adaptive bike. The freshly renovated Portland International Airport will immerse you in the best of the city before you even step outside, and our packing list will prepare you for any season.

PDXSOAR S , LITERALLY

BREATHE IN THE PACIFIC Northwest at the newly renovated Portland International Airport (PDX), where live greenery, regional flourishes and its famous patterned carpet await. The best of the city is incorporated into its inspiring design — with free Wi-Fi, tax-free shopping, local vendors, craft brews, spirits and beloved food carts, plus an easy light rail connection to downtown.

With its major redesign wrapping up in 2026, PDX endeavors to embody the Pacific Northwest with what its designers call “an immersive forest experience.” You can’t miss the changes in the main terminal, where a majestic ceiling arches overhead with undulating curves and nearly 50 skylights — much of it lined with sustainably harvested Douglas fir. Closer to ground level, dozens of living trees evoke Portland’s urban parks and create a relaxing leg of your journey. Learn more at pdxnext.com.

Reasons to get to PDX early

Chill Spaces: Decompress in comfy lounge chairs surrounded by hanging plants before your flight. Stretch out in the stadium seating or order one of 96 brews at the all-ages beer hall complete with kids’ play area.

20+ Shops and Eateries: Visit local retailers for handmade gifts like leather goods and American wool blankets, pick up coffee beans and local spirits, and get in one last Portland meal – all with no sales tax.

PDX Microcinema: Catch some short local flicks at the Hollywood Theatre’s free 22-seat microcinema located just past security in the airport’s C Concourse.

THE FRIENDLY FOLKS

AT THE Portland Visitor Center (1132 SW Harvey Milk St.) downtown are ready to help make the most of your trip. Designed with physical mobility in mind, the Visitor Center offers expert (and free!) Portland travel guidance. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on major holidays.

Maps, brochures and magazines abound, along with sensory bags that include noise-canceling headphones, emotional processing cards, fidget toys and Portlandspecific items to help visitors navigate their surroundings.

Team members will happily recommend a favorite arcade, new

restaurant or timely event, or whip up a custom itinerary just for you.

Don’t speak English? No problem: The center has translation tools to make communication a breeze.

PACK FOR PORTLAND WEATHER

IN TEMPERATE PORTLAND, spring sees flowers bloom as early as March, with rainy mornings and clear, brisk evening skies.

Summer is primarily warm and sometimes hot, with low humidity and rare rain before cooler temperatures arrive in September. Summer evenings are long, with the sun setting around 9 p.m. in June and July.

Fall in Portland begins with mostly mild weather and partly sunny skies. Rain showers become more common toward mid-October, when leaves start changing color.

Winter brings frequent rain showers and mostly cloudy skies. Temperatures remain mild by North American standards, and significant snowfall is rare, though winter storms occasionally bring the city to a halt.

Packing Checklist

Check off the things you’ll need for your trip! Whenever you’re visiting, layers are always a good idea.

Portland Public Transport 101

The MAX Light Rail (trimet.org/max) is the heart and soul of the city’s public transportation system. It Includes more than 90 stations and stretches for 60 miles (96.6 km), connecting the city, airport and greater Portland region.

The Portland Streetcar (portlandstreetcar.org) serves downtown, the Pearl District and the Nob Hill neighborhood on the west side, as well as Lloyd and the Central Eastside. The TriMet bus system (trimet.org/ bus) covers the city and its suburbs thoroughly and offers low fares, friendly drivers and wheelchair accessibility.

Biketown (biketownpdx.com) operated by Lyft, offers e-scooters and e-bikes rentable by the minute, including adaptive bikes (adaptivebiketown. com). Lime also offers e-scooter rentals; download their app to unlock a scooter. Be sure to wear a helmet and ride only in the bicycle lane.

Lyft and Uber both operate in Portland. If you’re exploring beyond city limits, you might want to rent a car.

Portland

3 EASY WAYS TO PAY

·Your TriMet transit pass – called a Hop Fastpass – is valid for the dates listed on the pass.

Tap, tap, tap! Be sure to tap the card on a designated card

1. Contactless Credit/Debit Card TAP your card on a Hop reader to purchase an adult fare.

·Your TriMet transit pass – called a Hop Fastpass – is valid for the dates listed on the pass.

· Tap, tap, tap! Be sure to tap the card on a designated card reader each time you board the MAX light rail, streetcar or bus.

·Card readers are located at either end of MAX light rail platforms. Buses and streetcars have card readers located inside.

valid is $75. ·If you lose an Adult TriMet hours or $5.

· Your pass is valid on buses, MAX light rail and streetcars in the city of Portland.

For information on routes, schedules or instructions in other languages, visit www.TriMet.org

Remember to TAP! If you do not have a valid pass, the first offense is $75.

2. Smartphone

·If you lose your pass, the fare for an Adult TriMet ticket is $2.80/2 hours or $5.60/day.

TAP YOUR LOCATE the green Hop reader located at either end of a MAX light rail station. on the black lower reader until the screen checkmark. You’ll confirming you

TAP to buy an adult fare with your credit/debit card in your mobile wallet.

3. Hop Card

TAP YOUR PASS LOCATE the green Hop reader located at either end of a MAX light rail station. on the black lower section of the Hop reader until the screen shows a green checkmark. You’ll also hear a chime confirming you are good to go.

Buy a hop card from vending machines at MAX stations or at the Portland Airport.

Tap & Ride

Need help? Call or text us at 503-238-7433 (RIDE) between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. daily.

DOWNTOWN & OLD TOWN CHINATOWN

1. AC Hotel Portland Downtown marriott.com/pdxar

2. The Benson Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton bensonhotel.com

3. The Bidwell Marriott Portland marriott.com

4. The Clyde Hotel Portland by Kasa theclydeportland.com

5. Courtyard by Marriott Portland City Center marriott.com/pdxpc

6. Dossier dossierhotel.com

7. The Duniway, a Hilton Hotel hilton.com

8. Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown embassyportland.com

9. Heathman Hotel heathmanhotel.com

10. The Hi-Lo hi-lo-hotel.com

11. Hilton Portland Downtown hilton.com

12. Hotel deLuxe hoteldeluxe.com

13. Hotel Lucia hotellucia.com

14. Hotel Vance, Portland, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel hotelvance.com

15. Hotel Vintage Portland hotelvintage-portland.com

16. The Hotel Zags thehotelzags.com

17. The Hoxton, Portland thehoxton.com

18. Hyatt Centric Downtown Portland hyatt.com

19. Hyatt House Portland Downtown hyatt.com

20. The Mark Spencer Hotel markspencer.com

21. McMenamins Crystal Hotel mcmenamins.com/ crystal-hotel

22. Moxy Portland Downtown moxy-hotels.marriott.com

23. The Nines thenines.com

24. The Paramount Hotel portlandparamount.com

25. Park Lane Suites & Inn parklanesuites.com

26. The Porter Curio Collection by Hilton theporterhotel.com

27. Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront marriott.com/pdxor

28. Portland Worldmark Waterfront Park clubwyndham. wyndhamdestinations.com

29. Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown RiverPlace marriott.com/pdxri

30. The Ritz-Carlton Portland ritzcarlton.com

31. RiverPlace — a Kimpton Hotel riverplacehotel.com

32. Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown sonesta.com/portland

33. Sentinel Hotel sentinelhotel.com

34. The Society Hotel thesocietyhotel.com

35. Staypineapple Hotel Rose, Downtown Portland staypineapple.com/hotelrose-portland-or

36. University Place Hotel and Conference Center uplacehotel.com

37. Woodlark Hotel woodlarkhotel.com

NORTHWEST & PEARL DISTRICT

38. Cambria Hotel Portland choicehotels.com

39. Canopy by Hilton –Pearl District canopy.hilton.com

40. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Portland – Pearl District hamptoninn.hilton.com

41. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & SuitesNW Portland ihg.com/holidayinnexpress

42. Inn @ Northrup Station northrupstation.com

43. La Quinta Inns & Suites Portland NW wyndhamhotels.com/ laquinta

44. Residence Inn by Marriott-Pearl District marriott.com/pdxpd

45. Silver Cloud Portland silvercloud.com/portland

LLOYD

DISTRICT & CENTRAL EASTSIDE

46. Courtyard Portland Downtown Convention Center courtyard.marriott.com

47. Crowne Plaza Downtown Convention Center ihg.com/crowneplaza

48. District Hotel by OYO oyorooms.com

49. DoubleTree by Hilton Portland doubletree.hilton.com

50. Eastside Lodge eastsidelodge.com

51. Hotel Eastlund hoteleastlund.com

52. Hotel Grand Stark palisociety.com

53. Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center hyattregencyportlandocc. com

54. Inn at the Convention Center innatcc.com

55. Jupiter Hotel & Jupiter NEXT jupiterhotel.com

56. KEX Portland kexhotels.com

57. Motel 6 Portland Downtown motel6.com

58. Quality Inn Downtown Convention Center qualityinnportland.com

SOUTH WATERFRONT

59. River’s Edge Hotel riversedgehotel.com

Find more places to stay in Portland:

Portland Visitor Center

CITY CENTER

Portland Visitor Center

MAX Blue Line (Hillsboro/Gresham)

MAX Green Line (Clackamas/PSU)

MAX Red Line (Airport/Beaverton)

MAX Orange Line (Portland/Milwaukie)

MAX Yellow Line (Expo Center/PSU)

Portland Streetcar NS Line

Portland Streetcar A Loop

Portland Streetcar B Loop

portland region map

Washington

Washington

Oregon

Oregon

LEGACY REIGNITED

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