30 Cool and Quirky Things To Do in Portland, OR

Sick of seeing the same Portland recommendations over and over again? Yes! I am with you in spirit.

At this point in my life, Portland has basically become a weekend trip every other month. Papa’s parents recently bought a house in Camas, Washington (about 20 minutes from the city) so we’re constantly crossing state lines to hang out, eat pizza, and hunt down whatever new bakery PDX locals are raving about.

And after this many visits, I can tell you this much: if you spend all your time at Powell’s, wandering downtown, or checking out the Pittock Mansion and calling it a day… you’re missing the real charm of Portland.

The city has this quirky, slightly oddball personality that shows up in small pockets—neighborhoods, shops, and experiences you’d never stumble into unless someone pointed you in the right direction.

This guide is all about those spots: quirky, unique, and genuinely off-the-beaten-path things to do in Portland that go way beyond the typical tourist checklist.

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

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UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN PORTLAND

1. GO ON A CULINARY FOOD TOUR

If you don’t normally associate the PNW with incredible food, Portland will change that thought of yours instantly.

The food scene here is legit on fire. You’ll find everything from food carts, bakeries, pizza shops, multicultural mom-and-pop spots, breweries, sandwiches, coffee, bars… you name it, this city does it well.

That’s why doing Secret Food Tours’ guided tour of Portland is such a fun way to taste your way through the city without having to plan a thing.

On this tour, you’ll stroll through Downtown Portland and Pioneer Square while sampling dishes that reflect the city’s quirky, internationally inspired food culture—think Japanese-leaning bites, bold Southern flavors, soft salty snacks with optional local craft drinks, a reimagined Asian classic (their “secret dish”), and a seasonal pie that somehow manages to be rich and gluten- and dairy-free.

Along the way, you’ll learn how the food scene became what it is, and why locals take so much pride in sourcing ingredients from their own backyard. By the time you’re done, you’ll understand exactly why this city has been crowned one of America’s biggest food capitals.

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2. EXPLORE PORTLAND BY BIKE

If you really want to feel Portland, hop on a bike. This city is obsessed with bike culture! You’ll find bike lanes everywhere, even in spots where you’d swear a bike lane couldn’t possibly fit.

It’s one of the easiest, safest ways to zip around, and you get to see neighborhoods up close instead of flying past them in a car.

You can rent from a local shop, but the Biketown racks are clutch if you want something fast and commitment-free—just download the app and go.

Plus, you’ll burn off at least a fraction of the pastries you’re inevitably going to eat here.

3. OREGON MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

The OMSI is a fantastic hands-on museum that’s perfect for people who don’t want to just stare at art all day. Here, you can conduct your own experiments in the interactive labs or watch storms form on a giant globe.

With a planetarium, a giant-screen theater, a retired navy submarine, endlessly rotating exhibits, “Science Pub” events, and an “After Dark” event series for those 21 and older, the OMSI is one of the coolest and most interactive museums in Portland.

4. GET LOST IN WASHINGTON PARK

Washington Park is where you go when you want to pretend you’re outdoorsy without committing to a full-on wilderness situation.

You’ve got the zoo, the Japanese Garden, Hoyt Arboretum, the World Forestry Center, the Children’s Museum, and miles of trails if you just want to wander.

My personal favorite? The International Rose Test Garden! It’s totally free, ridiculously pretty, and the type of place where you’ll find yourself taking 50+ photos even if you swear you’re not a garden person.

Bring snacks, bring comfy shoes, and let yourself get lost for a bit.

5. VISIT THE INTERNATIONAL ROSE TEST GARDEN

I know I mentioned it above, but the rose garden deserves a spot of its own here. I CANNOT say enough good things about this iconic rose garden!

It’s absolutely free to visit, which is a huge plus too.

Rows and rows of varieties of roses you didn’t even know existed will greet you, all perched on a hill with a killer view over the city. You can easily spend an hour here wandering, reading the labels, and debating which bloom is your new fave.

It’s in Washington Park and super easy to get to by bus or Biketown bike from NW 23rd.

6. DO A FREE WALKING TOUR

If you like learning about the history and culture of your travel destinations, sign up for a tip-based walking tour.

On my 2nd or 3rd visit to PDX, I did a pay-what-you-wish tour with Secrets of Portlandia and it was such great fun.

Our Secrets of Portlandia tour guide revealed the hidden gems, quirkiness, and rich history of Portland while giving us some pretty relaxing exercise around the city.

7. VISIT THE FARMER’S MARKET AT PSU

Every Saturday, from 9 am to 2 pm, downtown’s South Park Blocks (SW Park & Montgomery) transform into the city’s largest open-air grocery market.

The Portland Farmers Market at PSU features 100+ farmer and vendor stands, making it a great place to browse and buy local produce, flowers, and natural products.

With the many food booths that surround the market, it’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat for lunch!

8. PORTLAND SATURDAY MARKET

Operating since 1974, the Portland Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the nation. Shop and eat to your heart’s content, and then stroll by the waterfront afterward.

If it’s a nice and sunny day, this is the perfect place to sit on the grass, soak up the sun, maybe have a picnic, and watch all the bikes, scooters, and people drift on by.

If you pass by the “elephant ear” food stand, try one! It’s basically a huge slab of fried dough dipped in cinnamon sugar. So good!

9. EAT AT THE CITY’S MANY FOOD PODS

With more than 600 food trucks, food stalls, and tiny kitchens, Portland’s food-cart scene is unrivaled. I often prefer eating at food trucks to going to actual restaurants!

It’s usually cheaper, faster, and equally as delicious as real restaurant food. There are food truck pods dotted all across the city, but a few notable ones you might want to check out are:

Alder Food Truck Pod The Cart Blocks

Opened in 2021, the Cart Blocks comprise a group of food carts that were previously located at the (now closed) Alder Street food cart pod, including Kafta House and Rachel & Rose.

This one’s probably one of the more conveniently located pods, and parts of the surrounding streets have been closed to traffic, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment for urban dining.

Grab a bite and enjoy a stroll through the adjacent North Park Blocks.

Portland State University Food Cart Pod

Located in the south end of downtown, the PSU food cart pod offers Thai, Mexican, Egyptian, and Indian options, along with bento, sandwiches, and more.

At the time of writing, there are about 15 food trucks in this pod, all serving up worldly flavors at an affordable price. For seating, head to the shady, tree-lined South Park Blocks nearby.

Hawthorne Asylum

The Hawthorne Asylum food truck pod sits on what used to be the grounds of an actual asylum. But don’t let the name deter you, they have a great variety of food trucks here.

They also have a fun seating area, featuring a large patio covered by an awning and a communal fireplace, making this food pod accessible during any time of the year.

10. DINE AT THE PINE STREET MARKET

If you’d rather eat a food cart-like meal, but indoors, head to the Pine Street Market. This is an indoor food hall with seven of Portland’s best chefs and purveyors, all under one roof.

Open from early morning to late night every day, Pine Street makes for a great lunch stop for visitors staying in downtown hotels, exploring the Portland Saturday Market, or waiting in line for Voodoo Doughnut or Stumptown Coffee.

11. HAVE A PICNIC AT LAURELHURST PARK

Laurelhurst Park is one of those spots that makes you think, “Wow, Portland really is this eccentric.”

It’s leafy, it’s lively, and there’s always something random happening—last time I was there, I stumbled into a traveling circus setup and a book-trading event happening at the same time. The people-watching alone there makes it worth the detour.

If you’re grabbing takeout pizza from Ken’s Artisan Pizza (which you should 100% try), this is the perfect place to wander over to.

Bring your slice, sit under a tree, and decompress—or walk off the carbs with a slow lap around the pond. Either way, you’ll feel like a local for an hour.

12. EXPLORE HAWTHORNE BOULEVARD

If you want a neighborhood that feels like Portland’s version of Haight-Ashbury (SF), Hawthorne Blvd is calling.

Papu and I stayed at an Airbnb here for a month, and some days it genuinely felt like the entire area was held together by vintage denim, strong cold brew, and unapologetic counterculture energy.

You’ll find curated thrift stores, yummy Thai food establishments, cafés where you can actually hear yourself think, and plenty of locally owned shops that reward slow browsing.

Hawthorne is great for a loose half-day wander. Grab a coffee, shop around, and let the street pull you along.

13. EXPLORE THE HOLLYWOOD DISTRICT

Hollywood District is a lot of quirky fun. It’s not polished, not trying too hard, and absolutely full of character. If you’re into vintage/antique shopping, this area is a must-visit!

Most shops here lean heavily into curated-but-still-affordable finds, so you won’t walk out wondering how a pair of ‘retro’ sunglasses cost more than your flight.

There’s also a bunch of small eateries, old-school bakeries, and random knick-knack stores that are perfect when you’re killing an hour between plans.

14. WALK OR BIKE ACROSS A BRIDGE OR TWO

The Tilikum Crossing Bridge in Portland is the first major bridge in the US that was designed to allow access to everything but cars. You can get across this bridge via public transit, biking, or simply walking.

While on the bridge, you’ll get a picturesque view of the neighboring bridges hanging over the Willamette River. Enjoy a few coffee shops and bars along the way, then return over a different bridge.

15. GO ON YOUR OWN COFFEE-TASTING TOUR

Coffee runs in Portland’s veins. Over the years, it’s gone from a mundane coffee ritual to an art form. That’s great for coffee-loving travelers because there are so many independent coffee roasters to try out! Oh yeah, Stumptown Coffee’s got some real competition now.

During your stay in Portland, check out some of our personal favorites: Barista, Coava Coffee Roasters, Seven Virtues, Water Avenue Coffee, and Heart Coffee Roasters.

16. GO BREWERY HOPPING

Portland’s climate is perfect for growing hops, which is why the growth of craft beer and independent breweries is unstoppable in Oregon. If you didn’t know, Portland is known as one of the best beer cities in the US!

If you’re going to be coffee tasting, you’ll need to make some room to go beer tasting too.

Some of the best brewpubs to start your beer tasting adventures at include Breakside Brewery, Base Camp Brewing, Von Ebert Brewing, Little Beast Brewing Beer Garden, and Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House.

If that’s not enough beer for you, consider joining a brewery tour, where you’ll be shuttled around to some of Portland’s best breweries and not have to worry about drunk driving or drunk biking!

17. GO SHOPPING FOR VINTAGE THREADS

Portland has an awesome reuse culture. With that, you’ll find tons of antique, vintage, consignment and thrift stores throughout Portland. Hollywood Vintage and House of Vintage are two massive retailers of vintage apparel.

And by massive, I mean MASSIVE. If you’re looking for furniture instead, check out Hollywood Vintage, Lounge Lizard, and Artifact. When in doubt, start in SE Portland at Hawthorne Blvd—the mecca of all things vintage.

18. VISIT THE FREAKYBUTTRUE PECULIARIUM

The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium is an emporium for all things odd and inexplicable. But that’s the fun of it!

The pure existence of this mini-museum really exemplifies the city’s slogan of “Keep Portland Weird”. In the gift shop area, you’ll find shelves jam-packed with weird artifacts, gag gifts, and preserved specimens that can best be described as curiosities.

In the Peculiarium itself, you’ll find a variety of exhibits include a nightmare dollhouse, odd drawings, an evil-looking Krampus figure, and even a life-size recreation of an alien autopsy (did someone say photo op?). They also serve fresh chocolate chip bug cookies, edible scorpions, mealworms, and crickets.

At the time of writing, admission is $10 per person, $7 on Tuesdays. Bring a well-behaved pet along and get a free admission. Come in wearing a decent* costume, and get a free admission.

I know, even the discounts are weird and awesome.

19. VISIT CATHEDRAL PARK

Cathedral Park is situated in North Portland next to the banks of the Willamette River in the Cathedral Park Neighborhood. Above the park is St. John’s a beautiful and iconic bridge in Portland. The experience of being here is spectacular.

As you walk beneath the towering cathedral-like footings of the St. John’s bridge, soak in the beauty of the structure. The park also includes a boat dock, boat ramp, picnic tables, and an off-leash area for hanging out with your dogs.

The park is also home to many festivals, concerts, and community events such as the Cathedral Park Jazz Festival.

20. COOL DOWN WITH FIFTY LICKS ICE CREAM

Fifty Licks is by far the best ice cream I’ve had in my life–like, ever. In my opinion, it’s a million times better than Salt & Straw. Yes indeed I said it! I’m smiling, thinking about Fifty Licks now…

They’ve got uncommon yet delicious flavors like Thai Rice, Mango Sticky Rice, Cornbread with Honey Butter, Mochi Green Tea, French Toast, and Banana Pudding. The Banana Pudding and Green Tea Mochi flavors are my all-time favorites there!

If you can’t eat traditional ice cream made with whole milk, you’ll love Fifty Licks’ large selection of non-dairy options.

They have multiple locations throughout Portland.

21. VISIT THE PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN

Considered the most authentic Japanese Garden outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of tranquil beauty in all four seasons. The view of Mount Hood on a clear day only adds to the garden’s effortless serenity.

Expect to spend about 2 hours soaking in the enchanting views at the Japanese garden.

You can even pair your visit to the Portland Japanese Garden with a free public tour led by one of the garden’s expert guides. They’ll lead you through the serene landscapes, providing fascinating insights into the Garden’s history, design, and cultural significance.

That said, the admission price is pretty steep—it costs $22.50 for adults. If you are a senior, student, or youth, you can take advantage of some discounts.

My thoughts on whether the admission is worth it? If you don’t plan on visiting Japan in the near term, then sure, this garden is worth it (especially if you take one of their free tours).

22. FIRST THURSDAYS IN THE PEARL DISTRICT

Calling all art lovers and wine aficionados! Since 1986, Portland’s Pearl District has opened its gallery doors and uncorked its wine bottles on the first Thursday of every month for its aptly named event, First Thursdays in the Pearl District.

At this monthly event, art galleries in the district are open late into the evening for receptions and new show openings. Many of the galleries offer food and drink while the featured artists show off and discuss their work.

The gallery receptions are free and open to the public, and the receptions usually go from around 6pm to 10pm.

Outside, you can usually find the streets packed with artists selling their creations and musicians playing live music on many of the closed-off streets. It’s a good time for sure!

23. LAST THURSDAYS IN THE ALBERTA ARTS DISTRICT

Once a month, the diverse neighborhood puts on a lively street fair called Last Thursday Alberta Street, which is a spinoff of the Pearl District’s “First Thursday” event.

Musicians, performers, and local artists line Alberta Street displaying their talents and goods while tons of artwork are showcased in and around surrounding galleries, bars, and restaurants.

If you’re ever in Portland on the right Thursday of the month, this is an event not to be missed!

24. GET COCKTAILS + A SHOW AT FUNHOUSE LOUNGE

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You can’t find a quirkier place for nightlife than the Funhouse Lounge. After all, it was voted one of “Portland’s Weirdest Bars” by The Oregonian.

This place is an arts-centric, fringe theater lounge located in the Central Eastside of Portland. Some would even consider it a modern cabaret–a place to enjoy some cocktails and grab a bite to eat while being entertained.

And there’s a clown room? If you like weird, this is the place to go.

Throughout the week, you can find a wide array of events, including dance nights, stand-up comedy, burlesque, improv, karaoke, storytelling, bingo, and much more.

25. GROUND KONTROL CLASSIC ARCARD AND BAR

Ground Kontrol is a Portland staple! Who can say no to an arcade bar with all the classics, such as pinball, Pac-Man, Paperboy, Soul Calibur, and Tekken, as well as more modern arcade games?

For those of you who like dancing— yes, there is a Dance Dance Revolution machine there.

This venue is actually in Old Town Chinatown, but it’s walkable from downtown.

26. GO BIKE RIDING AT SAUVIE ISLAND

If you’re looking for a bit of a longer bike ride, consider making a little day trip to Sauvie Island. Just 10 miles northwest of downtown Portland, this is one of the largest river islands in the United States. Since a lot of it consists of farmland and wildlife refuge, it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

On Sauvie Island, you can ride your bike throughout the island, hang out by the beach, go berry picking at one of the many farms, go kayaking, or simply enjoy a sunset with a picnic dinner.

Looking for something completely odd to do here? Head to Collins Beach, where you’ll find a boat that looks like a tagged up UFO. It’ll be located around the 2nd and 3rd parking areas for Collins Beach among the trees and the beach.

27. ENJOY SPRING AT THE WOODEN SHOE TULIP FARM

Every spring, just 32 miles south of the city in Woodburn, you’ll find blooming colors of all kinds splashed throughout the fields.

Every March, the Wooden Show Tulip Festival takes place, drawing in thousands of visitors each year. Daily activities and special weekend activities at the Tulip Festival include craft tents, food, wine tasting, and activities for all ages.

After you’ve enjoyed the tulip fields, check out the gift shop, café, and children’s area (featuring a “cow train” for rides through the fields, rubber duck races, and pony rides). If you’ve missed the spring season, they are still open year-round for wine tasting, farm tours, and more.

Local Tip: If you have more time to explore, turn your drive out here into a day trip and head to nearby Silver Falls State Park or the Aurora Colony National Historic District, which features some of the country’s best antique shops. More on these spots below!

28. AURORA COLONY NATIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICT

Head 24 miles south of Portland for a treasure hunting paradise. At Aurora Colony National Historic District, you can find over twenty shops, many in historic buildings, featuring some of the best antique and vintage stores you’ll ever visit.

Stroll down the streets to enjoy additional small-town establishments, including art galleries, eateries, a candy factory, and a garden shop. While you’re here, visit the Old Aurora Colony Museum for a self-guided tour to learn a little bit more about the area’s history.

29. DAY TRIP TO SILVER FALLS STATE PARK

Famous for its abundance of picturesque waterfalls, Silver Falls State Park is the largest and one of the most popular state parks in Oregon.

Located 60 miles south of Portland in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Silver Falls SP features some truly iconic hikes and sights. It is best known for the 177-foot South Falls, located at the South Falls Day Use Area.

If you have more time to linger here, you should really make time to hike the Trail of Ten Falls, a moderate 7.8-mile hike that features ten waterfalls. This trail lets you walk directly behind four waterfalls, offering an awesome perspective and an even more awesome photo op!

I did this hike with my BFF in July, and the waterfalls were gushing pretty nicely. That said, we spoke to a park ranger, who noted that mid-June is when you really gotta go to experience max waterfall power!

30. DAY TRIP TO COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE

If you only rent a car for one thing in Portland, make it this! The Columbia River Gorge needs either a half-day or a full day (depending on how adventurous you are). It’s certainly not a half-hearted one or two-hour type of situation.

You’ll be scenic driving along a 70-mile stretch packed with waterfalls, lookout points, picnic areas, tiny towns, and random spots you’ll want to pull over for.

Most people stick to the Oregon side (that’s where the famed Multnomah Falls is), but there’s a Washington side too, with quieter trails, wildflower-themed mountain hikes, and its own set of charming small towns to explore.

Hiking and watersports are everywhere out there, but you don’t have to be outdoorsy to enjoy the drive. Even if you never step out of the car, you’ll still get an unbelievable mix of river views, moss-covered cliffs, and that fresh Northwest air that smells like pine and mist.

Need some help deciding what to do when you’re at the Gorge? Here’s our half-day Columbia River Gorge road trip itinerary that features 5+ waterfalls, one epic hike, and endless scenery that can be enjoyed right from the car.

Pro Tip: Start early (you’ll wanna aim to get there by 9am). Parking fills up fast at the major waterfalls. Another benefit of being an earlybird? The morning light will hit the cliffs and waterfalls in a way that’ll make your photos look drop-dead gorgeous without you even trying.

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31. DAY TRIP TO THE OREGON COAST

The entire coast of Oregon is jam-packed with nature parks, rugged coastlines, coastal villages, and equally as breathtaking views. No matter the season, the Oregon Coast is a rejuvenating getaway.

From Portland, the quickest and easiest spot to visit on the coast is Cannon Beach and the surrounding towns. Those iconic photos of the huge triangular rock jutting out of the ocean–yup, that’s located in Cannon Beach.

Cannon Beach and the Northern Oregon Coast is only 80 miles (1.5 hours) from downtown Portland, making it an excellent day trip or weekend trip option. There are a plethora of things to do here, including hiking, lounging on the beach, strolling through farmer’s markets, visiting art galleries, and admiring tide pools full of life.

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WHAT TO EAT IN PORTLAND

Tokyo Sando | Japanese fried chicken sandwiches, pure saucy goodness!

Love Belizean | If you’re a sucker for Caribbean food like I am, then you will have found your pot of gold with Love Belizean. The lovely couple who owns the place serves up amazingly tender stews, curries, meat plates & other Caribbean offerings. It’s hands down one of my new favorite places to get a plate of comforting stewed chicken.

Lauretta Jean’s | Amazing pie, the only place I NEED to go whenever I’m in Portland. Nuff said.

Apizza Scholls | Hands down my favorite NY-style pizza spot in all of Portland. The crust is pure perfection and the toppings are as flavorful as can be. They sell full-sized pies only, but don’t let that deter you–you will finish the pizza because of how delicious it is.

Ken’s Artisan Pizza | Delicious wood-fired oven pizzas that are Italian-inspired with an American accent.

Pine State Biscuits | Biscuits and gravy, highly rated, highly comforting. Need I say more? If you’re wondering what to get, The Reggie (fried chicken, bacon & cheese topped with gravy) and The Reggie Deluxe (The Reggie with an egg) are both to die for.

Tin Shed Garden Cafe | Go to The Tin Shed for breakfast or brunch, but be prepared to wait a while unless you get there early! This place is super popular but worth getting up early for. You can enjoy a cup of coffee in the garden area while you wait. Great people-watching spot too!

Screen Door | Southern food, great drinks, and an easygoing atmosphere. This place is extremely popular, so be prepared for a long wait if you don’t get there as soon as the doors open. You’ve been warned! I waited over an hour the last time I was there. Another strategy is to go for a late dinner, after 8pm.

Fifty Licks | Fifty Licks is by far the best ice cream I’ve had in my life–like, ever. In my opinion, it’s a million times better than Salt & Straw. I’m smiling thinking about it now… They’ve got uncommon yet delicious flavors like Thai Rice, Mango Sticky Rice, Cornbread with Honey Butter, Mochi Green Tea, French Toast, and Banana Pudding. The Banana Pudding and Green Tea Mochi flavors are my all-time favorites there.

Gravy | Go here for brunch, but make sure you get there early! Known for their sausage gravy, platter-size hash browns, and the overwhelmingly huge portions. You’ll probably want to share with a friend as you enjoy bottomless mugs of Cellar Door Coffee. Insider tip: Wednesdays and Thursdays are slowest if you can squeeze in a midweek meal.

Andina Restaurant | “Novoperuvian” cuisine in the Pearl District. I ate there a few years ago for a friend’s birthday dinner and oh, was it amazing. If you’re looking for a change of pace from food pods and food cart meals, Andina is a great option.

Breakside Brewery | Breakside Brewery is a few blocks away from 23rd in the NW Slabtown district. If you’re limited on time or have a beer consumption limit, add Breakside to the top of your list. Not only do they have great beers (Breakside IPA and Wanderlust IPA are iconic), they have delicious brew bites too.

Von Ebert Brewing | Stop in for happy hour for some great brew bites (and of course great beer). Get the burger, any type of pizza, and the truffle oil tater tots. These tots are the best I’ve ever had.

Carioca Bowls | Hot summer day in PDX? Head to Carioca Bowls and cool off with one of their beautiful and delicious acai bowls! Aside from acai bowls, they also sell pao de queijo (cheese bread), avocado toast, and a vegan version of the bean stew feijoada.

Coava Coffee Roasters | Another popular coffee roaster in Portland. There are multiple locations, so you know it’s good.

Khao Moo Dang | Has anyone heard of Thai brunch up until now? (Us neither.) Well, that’s what this restaurant is known for, and oh boy have we been missing out all our lives. Khao Moo Dang is the neighborhood’s Thai style pork, crispy pork belly, rice and noodle joint. Excellent comfort food!

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WHERE TO STAY IN PORTLAND

If you want the easiest public transit access overall: Downtown, Pearl District

If you want the “quirky Portland” feel with good-but-not-perfect transit: Central Eastside, Northwest (Nob Hill), Hawthorne, Mississippi Avenue

• Downtown Portland: Close to many attractions, restaurants, food pods, and shopping; this is probably going to be the best area to stay in if you don’t have a car. You’ll be steps from the MAX Red/Blue Lines, the streetcar, and tons of good coffee/food.
• Pearl District: Where the warehouse district’s past meets the future! The streetcar runs right through here, so getting around is easy even if you don’t want to use buses. You’re also close to downtown, the waterfront, Powell’s, and a ton of breweries and bakeries.
• Mississippi Avenue: a down-to-earth, funky, and edgy neighborhood filled with music, art, shopping, and an awesome food cart pod; one of our personal favorite neighborhoods to stay in!
• Central Eastside: This is one of the best neighborhoods if you want breweries, coffee, and restaurants everywhere you turn. The Portland Streetcar + bus routes make it easy to cross the river without needing a car.
• NW 23rd Avenue: This is one of Portland’s most walkable residential neighborhoods with boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants. You’ll be relying mostly on buses, but the routes here run frequently and connect directly downtown.
• Hawthorne Blvd / Belmont: the counterculture capital of Portland, host to a cool blend of vintage and independent boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars (often compared to the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco, CA). There aren’t many large hotels here — it’s mostly Airbnbs and small inns — but transportation is easy.

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Looking for more Oregon travel tips? Read More:

9 Epic Weekend Road Trips From Portland, Oregon

Things To Do In The Columbia River Gorge For A Perfect Day Trip

The Best Road Trip Stops from Portland To Bend, Oregon

The 8 Best Neighborhoods To Visit In Portland, Oregon

15 Group-Friendly Destinations Perfect for a Friendcation

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