Why Portland International Airport (PDX) Is Among the Best in the World
Some airports are just better than others. In our completely unbiased opinion, the Portland International Airport – PDX – is one of the best in the world. Here’s why:
Getting There Is Actually Fun
Portland is a famously bicycle-loving city, so it’s probably no surprise you can ride your bicycle to and from the airport. The city has a network of multi-use paved trails that connect you to the bike path alongside Marine Drive, leading directly to the airport. Grab a map online or at the airport info desk. If you’re traveling with a bicycle and need to reassemble it upon arrival, PDX has you covered: there’s a bicycle work station with tools attached on the airport’s lower level. A bike rack is adjacent to the work station, and another is located at the opposite end of the airport near baggage claim. Moreover, a little-known fact for motorcycle riders is that you can park a motorcycle for free at Portland Airport in a covered, secure, and well-monitored lot just outside baggage claim. This gives you further incentive to pack light!
The Famous PDX Carpet
Even people who’ve never been to Portland know that the airport’s tacky ‘80s-looking blue-green carpet is, for whatever reason, a beloved hipster icon. Portlanders cherish it. Socks, shoes, t-shirts, and handbags are made to resemble it. Some people even get tattoos of the carpet or dress up as it for Halloween. The carpet even has its own Twitter and Facebook accounts. A few years ago, when the Port of Portland announced its plan to remove and replace the old airport carpet, the unexpected depth of passion locals felt for this carpet came to light. Suddenly, everyone who passed through the airport felt compelled to take a photo of their feet with that carpet in the background before it was lost forever. At one point, you could even purchase small sections of the old carpet to keep at home. While it has since been replaced with a new, similar but slightly less vivid carpet, locals have begrudgingly accepted the change. Nevertheless, “foot selfies” remain a mandatory rite of passage.
Local Flavor
Airport shops and restaurants often tend to feature generic chains, but Portland’s airport is more like a microcosm of the city. One of the first things you see upon entering the airport is a large sign for Stumptown Coffee, a Portland landmark. Next to that is the airport satellite of the beloved Country Cat restaurant for those who didn’t get their fill of fried chicken and biscuits during their visit. There’s also an outlet of the much-adored Blue Star Donuts. In addition to the obligatory fast-food options in the food court, you’ll find a couple of mobile food carts—ever so Portland. If you’re reluctant to leave the city’s famous craft beer scene (or you want an immediate introduction upon arrival), you’re in luck, as the airport hosts three outposts of Oregon craft breweries: Deschutes, Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB), and Laurelwood.
Not Your Average Airport Shops
If you have a long wait for your flight, the locally flavored shops at PDX include Made in Oregon (just what it sounds like), Tender Loving Empire (a charming artisan gift shop and record label), and, of course, the world-famous Powell’s Books. Have more time? Why not catch a movie? The excellent nonprofit Hollywood Theater offers a free screening room where local filmmakers’ short films play on a constant loop. Overall, the airport serves as a fantastic introduction to the city or a lovely way to keep the Portland vibe alive as you prepare to leave.
The Practical Stuff
Finally, PDX offers several practical advantages: it’s small and seldom crowded. With direct flights available to destinations like London, Amsterdam, New York, Frankfurt, Iceland, and Maui, you’ll find it easy to travel. Notably, the airport is situated very close to the city center—if cycling isn’t your style, you can generally reach the airport in less than 30 minutes by car. Alternatively, you may take the MAX light-rail train ($2.50; $1.25 for ages 7-17 and over 65), which deposits you right at the bottom of the escalator up to the departure hall—just about as convenient as it gets. Additionally, you’ll enjoy free, fast Wi-Fi throughout the airport and several quiet areas to work. And did we mention the carpet?
