Portland

Portland is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and there are many must-see attractions to check out. Some popular options include the Portland Art Museum, the Lan Su Chinese Garden, and the International Rose Test Garden. For those interested in nature, Forest Park is a great place to hike and explore. And of course, no trip to Portland is complete without visiting Powell's City of Books, one of the largest independent bookstores in the world.

There are plenty of fun activities to do in Portland, no matter what your interests are. For foodies, the city is known for its food carts and craft breweries. You can also take a bike tour of the city to explore its many neighborhoods, or visit the Portland Saturday Market for local crafts and food. For a more laid-back activity, you can check out one of the many parks around the city, such as Washington Park or Laurelhurst Park.

Portland is a great place for families, with plenty of activities for all ages. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a popular spot, with interactive exhibits and a planetarium. The Oregon Zoo is another must-visit, with over 1,800 animals and a train ride that takes you through the zoo. For outdoor fun, families can visit Oaks Amusement Park, which has rides and games for all ages, or the Children's Museum, which has hands-on exhibits for kids.

Portland is known for its food scene, with many options for foodies to explore. Some popular spots include Pok Pok, which serves up Thai street food, and Voodoo Doughnut, which has creative and colorful donuts. For a more upscale dining experience, try Le Pigeon, which offers French-inspired cuisine. Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of options, such as the vegan bakery Sweetpea Baking Company.

Portland has many unique and vibrant neighborhoods to explore. The Pearl District is known for its art galleries and high-end shopping, while Hawthorne is a bohemian neighborhood with vintage shops and indie boutiques. Alberta Arts District is another great spot, with street art and many restaurants and bars. For a more laid-back vibe, check out Mississippi Avenue, with its quirky shops and cafes.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Portland, no matter what your interests are. Forest Park is a popular spot for hiking and exploring nature, with over 80 miles of trails. The Portland Japanese Garden is a beautiful outdoor space, with traditional gardens and a tea house. For a more urban outdoor experience, check out the Eastbank Esplanade, a riverside path with great views of the city.

Portland has many great options for accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Portland is a popular choice, with its stylish decor and central location. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the Ace Hotel Portland, which has a trendy and hipster vibe. The McMenamins Kennedy School is another unique option, with rooms converted from a former school building.

The best time to visit Portland is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and there are many outdoor events and festivals. However, this is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices. Spring and fall are also good times to visit, with fewer crowds and lower prices, but be prepared for some rain. Winter can be cold and rainy, but there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.

Portland has a good public transportation system, with buses, light rail, and streetcars. The MAX light rail system is a convenient way to get around the city, with stops all around downtown and the surrounding areas. The streetcar is another popular option, with two lines that run through the city center. Biking is also a popular way to get around, with many bike lanes and bike-share programs available.

Portland is surrounded by many beautiful natural areas and small towns, making it a great launchpad for day trips. Some popular options include the Columbia River Gorge, with its scenic waterfalls and hiking trails. The Oregon Coast is another great option, with many charming towns and beautiful beaches. For a more urban day trip, check out Seattle, which is only a few hours away by car or train.