8 Portland staples worth visiting (even if you’ve already been)
Whether you’re from out of town, or looking to rediscover the unique qualities that brought you to Portland, these 8 staples have proven themselves as quintessential pieces of the city’s history. If there ever was a list to point out the highlights of the city, this is it.
Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s City of Books is the largest independent book store in the world with over a million books stocked in store and over 3,500 different sections. They truly have something for everyone and every interest . Their flagship location on 1005 W Burnside St. occupies an entire city block and 1.6 acres of retail space. Get lost in the stacks and find your new favorite book. Take a break and get a cup of coffee or a small snack from the recently opened, Guilder Cafe.
Website: https://www.powells.com/
Pittock Mansion
Built in 1914, this mansion sits just outside of Portland’s city center and has sweeping panoramic views of Portland, the Willamette River, and the distant Cascade Mountains. The home was occupied by members of the family until the late 50s. To prevent the mansion from demolition in 1964, community members and the city of Portland fundraised over $2,023,562 of today’s money and purchased the property to turn it into a public house museum.
Today, Pittock Mansion is open to the public for house tours from 10 AM–4 PM on most days. Visitors can explore the grounds and see the spectacular views for free.
Website: https://pittockmansion.org/
International Rose Test Garden
This is the oldest continually operated test garden for roses in the world. The almost 7 acre property was established in 1917 as a safe destination for European rose hybrids to flourish during WW1. Now, there are over 610 different rose varieties in the gardens, with over 10,000 individual rose bushes. Walking through the terraces, flowering archways, and rows of colorful blooms is a must-do for anyone visiting the Portland area. The garden is open year-round, though if you can, visit between May and September to see the most blooms. Admission is free.
Website: https://www.portland.gov/parks/washington-park-international-rose-test-garden
Portland Japanese Garden
Just a short walk from the International Rose Test Garden is the Portland Japanese Garden. The beautifully curated Japanese Garden covers 12 acres of Washington Park and has 8 distinct garden styles. Immerse yourself in the beautiful plants and intentionally designed pathways to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The grounds include an authentic Japanese Tea House with outdoor seating and a spectacular selection of teas and sweets. On clear days you can even see Mt. Hood.
Website: https://japanesegarden.org/
Multnomah Falls
Just 30 miles from Portland is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest. The iconic Multnomah Falls boasts over 2 million visitors each year and also holds the record for Oregon’s tallest water fall, coming in at 620 feet. The main viewpoint of the falls is just a short distance from the parking lot. Hikers can climb the 2.40 mile, out and back trail to the top of the falls for spectacular views of the gorge.
The onsite Lodge has a restaurant, espresso bar, gift shop, and interpretive center as well as public restrooms.
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/crgnsa/recarea/?recid=30026
Bonus: While you’re on the Historic Colombia River Highway, drive up to Vista House for incredible views of the gorge.
The grotto
A 62-acre sanctuary founded in 1924 that embraces people of all cultures and faiths seeking a place of prayer and meditation. The beautiful grounds showcase chapels, statues, and serene areas to embrace peace and quiet. The main attraction within the grounds is a 50 foot tall cave that houses a replica of Michelangelo’s Pietà, made of Carrara marble. Visitors are allowed to example the upper and lower gardens and the many buildings within.
Website: https://thegrotto.org/
Portland Arial Tram
The City of Portland owns one of the only arial commuter trams in the country. And as cool as that is, what makes this public transit system noteworthy are the unbeatable views offered from the trams cabins. On clear days passengers get city views and beautiful vignettes of both Mount St. Helens and Mt. Hood. The tram goes between South Waterfront and Marquam Hill in a 3,300 linear foot path, rising 500 feet during the four-minute trip.
Please Note: Due to Covid-19, there are temporary rider restriction rules in place. Members of the general public are currently not allowed on the tram. This is expected to be lifted when the threat of Covid-19 is reduced.
Website: http://www.gobytram.com/
Portland Saturday Market
There’s something for everyone at the Portland Saturday Market. Over 258 booth spaces are filled with toys, souvenirs, hand crafted goods, art, and homemade food. Everything at the Market is handmade by the vendor selling it, which means you get the opportunity to meet the artists and fund local business in a face-to-face environment. Visitors and locals alike can return again and again and keep finding new things to fall in love with.
Website: https://www.portlandsaturdaymarket.com/
