Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest
The city is clean, green, friendly and eclectic. This is Portland, Oregon.
Conveniently located an hour east of the Pacific Ocean and an hour west of beautiful mountains, Portland is a Mecca for tourists and home to many loyal Oregonians.
The summer climate is as close to perfect as you would ever wish to find, with temperatures averaging in the 80s and providing plenty of sunshine. The winters are mild with an abundance of rainfall needed to maintain all of that greenery.
Youll find endless things to experience in Portland, but heres a list of ten things to get you started.
#1: Browse the Saturday Market.
Open Saturdays and Sundays from March until Christmas Eve, the Saturday Market is the largest permanent outdoor market in the United States. Consisting of arts and crafts, handmade articles of all types, artists and musicians, its a happening place to go and buy a one-of-a-kind gift or to simply people watch. The food court offers standard favorites alongside international and vegetarian foods, offering something for everyone.
Check the Markets website for complete hours and days of operation.
#2: Take a break at Pioneer Courthouse Square.
Located downtown, Pioneer Courthouse Square sees over 21,000 people go by each day. Its an outdoor venue that provides entertainment by hosting 300 or so events every year, such as musical and cultural celebrations. Bask in the sunshine on the steps or spend some time looking at the unique brickwork.
#3: Have a cup of coffee.
Portland is home to some of the best coffee around. Youll find numerous chains beckoning, along with tiny coffee stands liberally sprinkled around the city. Try a mocha, a cappuccino, or a double-shot, half-caff, low-fat vanilla caramel latte while youre strolling.
#4: Check out the Pearl.
The Pearl District is an amazing gathering place for art galleries and unique stores. Lined with cobblestone streets, the Pearl is truly a one-of-a-kind visit.
#5: Hit the nightclubs.
Portlands nightlife is always on the move. From discos to comedy clubs to elegant jazz clubs, youll always find plenty to do after dark.
#6: Meander along the waterfront.
Tom McCalls Waterfront Park is a beautiful spot, offering enough photo opportunities for the photographer in everyone. Featuring plenty of cafs in case you work up a thirst, a walk here is a fabulous way to unwind and enjoy the sights of the Willamette River.
#7: Take the kids to OMSI.
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a great way to sneak in some education when your kids arent looking. Located along the banks of the Willamette River, OMSI provides many hands-on opportunities to learn and laugh. While there, be sure to visit the U.S.S. Blueback, a U.S. Navy submarine. Its on permanent display at OMSI, and a tour through it is one youll remember.
#8: Explore the Pittock Mansion.
The Pittock Mansion is an amazing, historical turn-of-the-century home that is open to visitors. The mansion was completed in 1914 and is situated on 46 beautiful acres. See the Mansion website for hours and admission fees.
#9: Ride the MAX.
The MAX train is a light-rail transit system that covers 44 miles in and around the Portland metro area. Hop on and go through the downtown streets, along the freeways to the Portland airport, and even out to the Oregon Zoo.
#10: Catch a basketball game at the Rose Garden Arena.
The Rose Garden Arena is home to the Portland Trail Blazers. Take the MAX directly to the Rose Garden stop and enjoy an exciting game of basketball. You never know what celebrities may show up to cheer on the Blazers!
Enjoy your visit to Portland, and consider making it your home. Its been rated one of the most livable cities in the United States, and if you ask the average Portlander, theyll agree.
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