Welcome to Portland, Oregon, a city that prides itself on its eclectic vibe and a strong sense of community. Known for its coffee, craft breweries, and vibrant art scene, Portland offers a unique experience for every traveler. Here’s how to spend a dynamic weekend in the City of Roses.
Day 1: Explore and Indulge
Morning:
- HI Portland Hostel: Check into HI Portland Hostel, nestled in a historic house. This hostel is not just a place to stay but a way to meet fellow travelers from around the world. Enjoy great facilities including spacious bathrooms and a cozy café, all within walking distance to multiple neighborhoods.
Late Morning:
- Blue Star Donut: Start your day with a gourmet doughnut experience at Blue Star. Known for their unique flavors and quality ingredients, Blue Star is a testament to Portland’s culinary innovation.
Afternoon:
- Powell’s Books: Wander through the aisles of Powell’s, the world’s largest independent bookstore. Live by the color-coded system to navigate through various rooms filled with books from floor to ceiling.
Evening:
- Tasty n Alder: Head to Tasty n Alder for a creative and delicious brunch, making it one of the best spots in the city.
- Pints Brewing & Breakside Brewing: Kick off your beer tour with a visit to these local breweries. Breakside Brewing, close to the Pearl District, is famous for its MONSTER pretzel and a wide selection of beers.
Day 2: Art, Play, and Relaxation
Morning:
- First Thursday Art Crawl: Dive into Portland’s vibrant arts scene with the First Thursday Art Crawl in the Pearl District. It’s a fantastic way to experience local art and culture as galleries open their doors to the public.
Late Morning:
- Portland Saturday Market: Explore this open-air market that runs from March through Christmas Eve. It’s perfect for picking up unique jewelry, arts, and crafts.
Afternoon:
- Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade: Relive the nostalgia at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade where you can play classic video games. Check out free game nights on Thursdays for an unbeatable deal.
Evening:
- Deschutes Brewery & 10 Barrel Brewing: Enjoy lunch at Deschutes Brewery in a lively atmosphere next to major shopping areas or explore 10 Barrel Brewing, where the fun names of the beers and the friendly staff ensure a memorable experience.
- Rogue Brewery & Fat Heads Brewery: Continue your beer tour at Rogue Brewery and the soon-to-be-renamed Fat Heads Brewery, each offering a broad selection of unique brews right in the heart of the city.
- Bamboo Sushi: For dinner, Bamboo Sushi offers sustainable seafood in a stylish setting, making it a great spot for sushi lovers.
Day 3: Exploration and Relaxation
Morning:
- Voodoo Doughnuts: Despite the crowds, no visit to Portland is complete without a stop at Voodoo Doughnuts. Grab a box of their creatively topped doughnuts for a sweet treat.
Late Morning:
- Knot Springs: If you’re looking for a tranquil escape, Knot Springs offers a spa experience with a stunning view of Portland. It’s the ideal place to unwind and relax.
Afternoon:
- Base Camp Brewery & Wayfinder Brewery: Wrap up your weekend with a visit to these laid-back breweries. Base Camp hosts the annual Collabofest in March, celebrating collaborations across breweries, while Wayfinder provides a sunny spot to enjoy a cold beer on their elevated porch.
Evening:
- Queen of Tarts Café & Bewley’s Cafe: Relax at Queen of Tarts Café for some delicious pastries or head to Bewley’s Cafe on Grafton Street, a Dublin institution known for its coffee and historic charm.
From iconic doughnut shops to some of the best breweries in the Pacific Northwest, this itinerary gives you a taste of what makes Portland unique. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, indulge in the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this amazing city.
Kat Beyond Borders 