Article Overview
Portland, the largest city in Oregon and the second-largest in the Pacific Northwest, is a relaxed metropolitan area known for its remarkable fusion of history and contemporary architecture. Often referred to as the “City of Roses,” Portland is also celebrated for its vibrant arts and music scene and boasts one of the highest concentrations of zines and independent publishers in the United States.
Mill’s End Park, measuring only 2.5 feet in diameter, holds the title of the world’s smallest park. However, Portland features an abundance of significant green spaces, including Washington Park and Mt Hood. The city is home to the highest number of microbreweries globally and is famous for hosting an annual “World Naked Bike Ride”.
With its exciting reputation as the “Beer and Food Cart Capital of the World,” the city attracts approximately 8 million visitors annually. Should you be planning to join this crowd soon, it is essential to familiarize yourself with these charming neighborhoods to determine the best place to stay during your visit to Portland.
Downtown Portland
As the central urban area of Portland, the Downtown neighborhood is situated along the banks of the Willamette River. This historic waterfront location features numerous galleries, award-winning restaurants, unique shops, and a lively atmosphere, making it one of the city’s premier attractions. The Portland Art Museum, a standout destination, is home to an impressive collection of Asian and Native American artifacts, along with various temporary exhibits. Another significant site, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, commonly referred to as “the Schnitz,” is a historic venue that showcases numerous local and national artists and serves as the home of the Oregon Symphony. Director Park, a recent addition to the city center, has transformed a former parking lot into a vibrant space featuring a fountain, a café, and ample outdoor seating – special events frequently occur here.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Notable Mentions: Lan Su Chinese Gardens, Skidmore Fountain, Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland Saturday Market, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
Old Town Chinatown
Old Town Chinatown represents the original downtown district of Portland and is its oldest neighborhood, comprising some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and exceptional entertainment options. The most renowned of these historic attractions is the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Constructed using materials specially imported from China, this garden is celebrated as one of the most authentic Chinese gardens in the United States. If you happen to be visiting during the traditional Chinese New Year, be sure to partake in the festivities or enjoy a calming tea at the two-story pavilion that overlooks the scenic pond – your experience here is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Additionally, the Portland Saturday Market, which began in 1974, is the largest arts and crafts fair in the country, featuring a multitude of art displays, live performances, and an open-air market on weekends. Be sure to try a doughnut from the iconic 24-hour Voodoo Doughnut – a local favorite.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Steel Bridge, Broadway Bridge, Burnside Bridge, Oregon Nikkel Legacy Center, and Pine Street Market.
Pearl District
The Pearl District, renowned for housing the largest theater company and an extensive collection of art galleries in the city, is the ideal destination for exceptional shopping and delightful dining experiences. Once a warehouse area, its cobblestone streets and charming lofts provide a unique living environment. Art enthusiasts will find this neighborhood particularly inviting on the first Thursday of each month, when most galleries remain open late, offering a self-guided tour through various free exhibits. However, the district’s main attraction is Powell’s City of Books. Universally adored by locals and visitors alike, this historic bookstore spans five levels of new and used books and occupies an entire city block, making it the largest establishment of its kind in the world.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Broadway Bridge, Jamison Square, The Fields Park, Oregon Jewish Museum, Planet Granite Portland Gym, and Center for Holocaust Education, and North Park Blocks.
Lloyd District/Convention Center
The Lloyd District serves as the home to the renowned Oregon Convention Center, drawing sports enthusiasts and avid shoppers alike. This area features the state’s largest shopping mall and the Moda Center, which is the official venue for the NBA Portland Trail Blazers. Additionally, the Moda Center and Oregon Convention Center are known for hosting some of the most spectacular concerts in the region, including the annual Crafty Wonderland. The Lloyd Center also accommodates an ice rink, allowing visitors to practice their skating skills on the same surface once graced by former U.S. champion Tonya Harding. A common activity in the district includes taking a ride on the Portland Streetcar Central Loop line – board at the Convention Center Stoppage for a scenic tour of the city’s premier restaurants and attractions.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Portland Winterhawks Hockey Club, Portland Farmers Market, Eastbank Esplanade, and Holiday Park.
Nob Hill/Northwest Portland
Commonly known as “The Alphabet District” because of its alphabetically named east-west streets, Nob Hill features an abundance of local attractions, cultural institutions, and entertainment venues. However, the star attraction of this neighborhood is its adjacent Forest Park. Home to over 100 bird species and 60 mammal species, this expansive wilderness area, centrally located within the city, draws nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers to explore approximately 70 miles of trails. Hiking along the Wildwood Trail, visitors can discover the 1936 Witch’s Castle ruins and continue to ascend a 0.5-mile upward trail leading to the century-old Pittock Mansion. Lastly, make sure to take advantage of Portland’s lack of sales tax – there is hardly a better place for tax-free shopping than Northwest 23rd Avenue.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium and Museum, Wallace Park, Willamette Heights, Portland Japanese Garden, and Oregon Zoo.
