great things to do in portland

Portland, Oregon is known for its unique culture, food scene, and outdoor activities. Here are some great things to do in Portland:

Food and Drink:

1. Visit Voodoo Doughnut: A quirky Portland institution famous for its creative doughnuts.
2. Explore the food carts: Portland has a thriving food cart scene, with over 600 carts serving everything from tacos to Egyptian koshari.
3. Drink craft beer: Portland is home to numerous breweries, including Widmer Brothers Brewing, Deschutes Brewery, and Cascade Brewing Barrel House.
4. Visit the Portland Saturday Market: Every Saturday from March to December, the market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Explore Forest Park: One of the largest urban forests in the United States, with over 80 miles of hiking trails.
2. Walk or bike the Waterfront Park Trail: A scenic trail along the Willamette River with great views of the city and the river.
3. Visit the Japanese Garden: A serene oasis in the heart of the city, featuring beautiful gardens and a teahouse.
4. Hike at Pittock Mansion: A stunning French Renaissance-style chateau with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Culture and Art:

1. Visit the Portland Art Museum: One of the oldest and largest art museums in the country, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world.
2. Explore the Pearl District: A trendy neighborhood known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
3. Check out the street art: Portland is famous for its vibrant street art scene, with numerous murals and graffiti adorning the city’s walls.
4. Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): A popular museum featuring interactive exhibits on science, technology, and industry.

Shopping:

1. Visit Powell’s City of Books: The largest independent bookstore in the world, covering an entire city block and containing over one million books.
2. Explore the vintage shops: Portland is a thrifter’s paradise, with numerous vintage shops and thrift stores throughout the city.
3. Shop at the Portland Flea Market: A monthly market featuring local vendors selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts.
4. Visit the Lloyd Center: A large shopping mall with over 150 stores and restaurants.

Events and Festivals:

1. Portland Rose Festival: A annual festival celebrating the city’s official flower, featuring parades, concerts, and flower displays.
2. Portland Pride Festival: A celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and identity, featuring a parade, concerts, and community events.
3. Portland Beer Festival: A annual festival featuring over 50 breweries, live music, and food vendors.
4. Portland Jazz and Blues Festival: A festival showcasing local and national jazz and blues musicians, featuring concerts and workshops.

These are just a few of the many great things to do in Portland. The city has something for everyone, from foodies to outdoor enthusiasts to art lovers.