I used to have a fantastic list that I gave newcomers to the Portland area of places to see. Here’s a start at a new list with my old favorites.
Within the Metro Area
Powell’s Books | The bookstore so large you need a map…which they provide for free.
Portland Classical Chinese Garden
Washington Park | If you’re from San Diego you can skip the zoo, unless you think the SD zoo is too big. Otherwise, here are a few things to do here
- Oregon Zoo
- Japanese Garden
- International Rose Test Garden (especially May-July)
- The Children’s Museum
- Western Forestry Center
OMSI | Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
Day-trip or part day-trip to the east
Columbia River Gorge One of my favorite places in the world, especially in the fall. Here are some of the attractions within the lower gorge:
- Multnomah Falls
- Crown Point : an amazing vista/overlook
- Bonneville Dam : you can tour the dam, fish ladders, fish hatchery, and see really huge, old, sturgeon, even feed the fish
- Hood River : visit a fresh fruit stand in the fall and get the best apples and pears
- Nearby is the Pittock Mansion
Day-trip or part day-trip to the west
- Drive on Hwy 30 from downtown Portland and see Sauvie Island, St. Helens, a great drive, and end up in Astoria for tons to do
Ack…I want to get this list out for a friend so I’ll publish this and add more info later….
the West Hills
Winery Loop
Portland Aerial Tram
Waterfront Park / East Bank Esplanade
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Vintage Trolley
Portland Saturday Market
Portland Farmer’s Market
Esther Short Park/Vancouver Farmer’s Market
Forest Park
South Park Blocks
Council Crest Park
St. John’s Bridge
you’re a nice friend