Meet Portland

The nation’s craft beer and food truck capital has plenty of unique experiences to offer visitors.
Katherine Lawless

Portland’s progressive local culture, exemplified in its popular slogan “Keep Portland Weird,” attracts visitors from around the world to experience the bustling intersection of craft brewing, international cuisine, leading arts institutions and Oregon’s natural beauty. From brewpubs and foodie finds to art stops and breathtaking scenery, Portland packs a punch when it comes to a trip to the Pacific Northwest.

Portland Beer Festivals

Craft beer aficionados and novices alike will be in awe of the offerings in Portland—and it’s easy to see why the city’s nickname is “Beervana.” Choose from over 70 breweries to find your perfect brew, including Hillsdale Brewery, 10 Barrel Brewing or the legendary Deschutes Brewery. The summer months are full of fermented festivities, including the Portland International Beerfest, Portland Craft Beer Festival, Puckerfestand IIPA Fest, to name a few. No matter what style of pint you prefer, Portland will have it—and possibly a celebration about it, too.

Food Truck Frenzy

While out and about, you’ll have no trouble finding a great bite to eat on the street. Unlike other cities, Portland’s 500 food trucks (yes, 500) are often found in “pods,” referring to clusters of food trucks—known as food carts to the locals—that are regularly in the same spot. You can find favorite pod locations on Fifth Avenue, Third Avenue and near the Portland State University campus.

Food Truck Pod in Portland Oregon
Portland Mercado / PHOTO: Justin Katigbak/Travel Portland

Check Out Portland's Chinatown

Portland’s oldest neighborhood, Chinatown, remains a bustling hub within the city center. Populated by authentic Chinese restaurants, tea houses, the beloved Saturday Market and even a traditional Ming dynasty garden, this cardinal neighborhood of Portland is great for shoppers, art enthusiasts and foodies alike.

Chinatown in Portland Oregon
Portland's Chinatown Neighborhood / PHOTO: Justin Katigbak/Travel Portland

Discover the Portland Art Scene

Also in the heart of the city, you’ll find the Portland Art Museum, home to over 42,000 objects—including an impressive collection of art with roots in Native American and Pacific Northwest culture. One of the newest additions to the museum’s permanent collection is the Modern and Contemporary Art wing, made possible by the acquisition of late New York art critic Clement Greenberg’s private collection of modern art. Between rotating selections of time-based media, sculptures and avant-garde art, this Portland staple is a must-see stop for artists and aesthetes alike.

Fabulous Mt. Tabor Park

It’s no secret Portland has a well-earned reputation for attracting the outdoorsy types because of its proximity to the many beautiful forests and mountains in this iconic geographic region, including more than 200 parks. Just 3.5 miles due east of downtown, nature’s playground awaits at Mt. Tabor Park—a 190-plus-acre greenspace built atop a dormant volcanic cinder cone. Enjoy a stroll around a mixture of trails and footpaths, play a game of horseshoes or check out historic open-air reservoirs amid the mountain’s slopes. The highlight of the park is unquestionably the view of the city skyline and surrounding hills from the mountain summit. Portland’s well-earned appeal as a must-visit destination for food, beer and outdoor enthusiasts alike is merely the tip of the peak. The city possesses unique, yet distinctive quirks that make Portland a great place for those with a good sense of humor looking for a great time—you’ll just have to see for yourself.

Mt. Tabor Park near Portland Oregon
Mt. Tabor Park / PHOTO: Justin Katigbak/Travel Portland

 

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