Portland is hands down one of my favorite US cities to visit. I’ve been there four times to date, even spent a month ‘living’ there, and can’t wait for my next trip back. There’s just so much to do, see, and eat!
Sure, you can say the same for any other major US city, but Portland has a vibe that can’t be duplicated anywhere else. People flock to Portland, for their incredibly diverse foodie scene and creative culture.
Not to mention, the number of green spaces and nature on the outskirts of the city—where else could you drive 20 minutes out of the city and be surrounded by top-notch waterfalls and lush greenery? Let’s face it, Portland is a must-visit kind of city.
Let’s talk about the best Portland neighborhoods to visit now. There are so many pockets of uniqueness in this city, with each neighborhood possessing its own charm and personality. Limited on time and wondering which Portland neighborhoods are the best ones to visit? I’ve got you.
In this post, I’m sharing 8 of my favorite Portland neighborhoods that will satisfy first-timers and return visitors alike. Read on to discover my favorite things to do in these Portland neighborhoods!
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Chances are if you’re visiting Portland, Oregon for the first time, this is where you’ll start off to find your bearings: Downtown Portland.
This neighborhood is compact, super walkable, and brimming with things to do for first-timers in PDX. You’ll also have access to the riverfront, where you can soak in amazing views of the Willamette River and all the colorful bridges that connect the city!
In addition to the Downtown Portland area, I’ll break down these seven other unique neighborhoods in Portland to visit:
- Mississippi Avenue: a down-to-earth, funky and edgy neighborhood filled with music, art, shopping, and an awesome food cart pod
- Alberta Arts District: boasts some of the most avant-garde arts and community elements in Portland, featuring art galleries, murals, shops, great little cafes, and bars
- South East Burnside: this is where the nightlife is, where a good concentration of brewpubs and bars are
- Pearl District: where the warehouse district’s past meets the future
- NW 23rd Avenue: Portland’s best-known shopping street with both independent shops and national chains
- 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)
- SE Division Street: a modern neighborhood w/ block after block of must-see and must-eat spots
Table of Contents
1. DOWNTOWN PORTLAND
Portland’s compact, walkable downtown offers easy access to great food, green spaces, cultural offerings, and best of all… lots of tax-free shopping!
If you’re looking for brand names, Downtown is the place for you. There are also bookstores, gift stores, indie boutiques, and vintage and thrift shops.
Here are some highlights of what to do in the neighborhood:
Explore Portland’s Food Cart Pods
Portland’s food cart scene is one of the things that first made me fall in love with the city. Instead of hunting down one specific restaurant, you can wander into a cart pod and let your stomach decide. One person can get Thai food, another can grab tacos, and someone else can order hand-pulled noodles… all without anyone having to compromise.
Downtown Portland is home to several great food cart pods. In the heart of downtown, you’ll find carts clustered around Pioneer Courthouse Square, including local favorites like Bing Mi, known for its savory Chinese jianbing crepes, and Fried Egg I’m In Love, which serves some of the city’s most beloved breakfast sandwiches.
Near Portland State University, the PSU Food Cart Pod is a convenient stop if you’re exploring the South Park Blocks or the Saturday Farmers Market. You’ll find a little bit of everything here, from Thai and Mexican to Indian cuisine.
For one of the largest concentrations of carts downtown, head to Midtown Beer Garden. This lively gathering spot features dozens of food vendors serving everything from Korean tacos and Asian fusion rice bowls to Egyptian street food and hand-pulled Chinese noodles. There’s plenty of seating, making it a great option for groups who can’t agree on what to eat.
If you’ve heard longtime Portlanders talk about the old Alder Street Food Pod (closed a few years back), much of that spirit lives on at Cart Blocks near the North Park Blocks. Several former Alder Street vendors relocated here, making it a good place to experience a piece of Portland food cart history.
👉 Pro Tip: If you’re visiting with a group, food cart pods are one of the easiest ways to keep everyone happy. Some of my favorite places to eat in Portland are at food cart pods. Cheap, spontaneous, comforting, and delicious!
Portland Saturday Market
Operating since 1974, the Portland Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the nation. On a sunny weekend morning, this is one of my favorite places to wander with absolutely no agenda.
You’ll find local artists selling everything from handmade jewelry and pottery to quirky prints and woodwork, plus plenty of food vendors when hunger inevitably strikes.
Once you’ve had your fill, grab a coffee and walk along the waterfront. Portland feels particularly Portland here—street musicians playing, cyclists cruising by, and people sprawled out on the grass whenever the sun decides to make an appearance.
If you pass by the “elephant ear” food stand, try one! It’s basically a huge slab of fried dough dipped in cinnamon sugar. YUM!
Pioneer Courthouse Square
There’s always something going on here, as it’s the most-visited spot in town. It hosts ~ 300 events each year, including a farmers’ market on summer Mondays, free concerts, movies, and a grand holiday tree-lighting party. Before you head to Portland, check out what events are taking place, you might find something cool.
Get Your Bearings On A Walking Tour
If you like learning about the history and culture of your travel destinations, try a taking a walking tour. Get to know more about the quirkiness of Portland as well as the history of the city. There are lots of walking tours, many of them focusing on a different theme. Check out some of these fun options:
- Intro to Portland Small Group Walking Tour
- Portland’s Only Underground Donut Tour
- A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland
Powell’s City of Books
A book lover’s paradise & the largest used and new bookstore in the world! Open 365 days a year. Occupying an entire city block, the City stocks more than a million new and used books. Be sure to go to the top floor and visit the rare book area.
Portland Japanese Garden
The Portland Japanese Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It features five distinct garden styles, as well as a tea house and cultural center where cultural demonstrations (like the tea ceremony) are held.
Blue Star Donuts / Voodoo Donuts
If it’s your first trip to Portland, you’ll probably hear about Voodoo Doughnut. While I think it’s a bit overrated from a taste perspective, the quirky donut shapes, wild toppings, and iconic pink boxes have made it one of Portland’s most recognizable food experiences.
For me, the better donut is Blue Star. Their brioche-style donuts are richer, more flavorful, and generally more memorable than anything I’ve had at Voodoo.
If you’re looking for donuts with creative flavors, go to Blue Star. If you’re looking for a classic Portland photo op and a bucket-list food stop, Voodoo is still worth seeing at least once.
My recommendation? Visit Voodoo for the novelty, then get your actual donut fix at Blue Star.
Go Tax-Free Shopping in Downtown
If you’re here for the tax-free shopping benefits, come to this neighborhood to do your shopping. Downtown has the Apple store and the Nike Store, as well as lots of national retailers, outdoor brands, indie boutiques, and other cool specialty stores.
If you’re into thrifting/reuse fashion, there’s a Buffalo Exchange here that’s a lot of fun to browse around (you never know what you’re going to find).
Pine Street Market
Food hall with tons of good dining options, as well as a Salt & Straw location. 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.
Portland City Grill
Super cool spot on the 30th Floor of the Bancorp Tower. They have a delicious happy hour menu, great ambiance, great views of the city, and a live piano player situated smack dab in the center of the room with bar seating all around it. It’s the whole package: lunch/dinner, a free show, and the views.
Just tell the security guard downstairs you’re heading to the restaurant and take the elevator up to the 30th floor.
See The Cherry Blossoms Bloom
If you’re lucky enough to be in Portland during cherry blossom blooming season (mid-March to early-April), head to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, located next to the Willamette River. From there, go towards the Steel Bridge.
Even if nothing is blossoming, it’s still a relaxing place to be. The riverside park is a very popular spot to get your physical activity on–you’ll see lots of people jogging, walking, rollerskating, skateboarding and cycling. You can also get a great view of the boats on the river, making it a good spot to have a picnic lunch.
Ground Kontrol Arcade Bar
A Portland staple! Who can say no to an arcade bar with all the classics such as pinball, Pacman, Paperboy, Soul Caliber, 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 is actually in Old Town Chinatown but it’s walkable from downtown.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Lan Su Chinese Garden is one of the most thoughtfully designed spaces in Portland and a rare example of a traditional Chinese scholar’s garden outside of China.
It was built in collaboration with artisans from Suzhou, Portland’s sister city, using authentic materials and design principles rooted in Ming Dynasty garden traditions. Every element here is intentional, from the placement of rocks and water features to the way the pathways guide you through different framed “views” of the garden.
Inside, you’ll find winding covered walkways, quiet courtyards, koi ponds, pavilions, and tea houses, all arranged to create a sense of calm and reflection in the middle of the city.
That said, it’s a relatively small space, and you can comfortably walk the entire garden in under 20 minutes.
The real value comes from slowing down and taking it in. If you have time, I highly recommend joining one of the free guided tours included with admission. The guides do a great job explaining the symbolism behind the design choices and how each section of the garden is meant to represent harmony between nature, architecture, and human life.
There’s also a tea house on-site where you can sit down and enjoy a traditional tea service, a nice way to extend your visit for a more immersive experience.
Farmers Market at PSU
Every Saturday (8:30am–2pm) and Sunday (9am-2pm), downtown’s South Park Blocks transform into the city’s largest open-air grocery market.
The Portland Farmers Market at PSU (Portland State University) features 140 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.
Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the Pacific Northwest. It features a nice collection of art, including works by local artists, as well as rotating exhibits.
The Portland Art Museum recently completed a major expansion that adds new galleries, public spaces, and the striking Mark Rothko Pavilion connecting the museum’s historic buildings.
Even if you’re not someone who spends an entire day in museums, the redesigned campus feels much more approachable than before.
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 own the place serve up amazingly tender stews, curries, meat plates & other Caribbean offerings. It’s hands down one of my favorite places to get a plate of comforting stewed chicken.
WHERE TO STAY IN DOWNTOWN PORTLAND
Downtown Portland is going to be where the majority of hotels are. Here are a few modern boutique hotels we really love:
- Woodlark – Mid-century modern touches everywhere you look, an amazing gym, and even more amazing aesthetics. This is probably my favorite Downtown Portland hotel, ever. The property location could not be more convenient.
- Royal Sonesta Portland – modern botique hotel with a bit of old-fashioned flair!
- Sentinel, a Provenance Hotel – Elegant hotel with upscale linens, premium decor, and cushy bathrobes for your stay!
- Kimpton Riverplace Hotel, an IHG Hotel – Eco-friendly hotel adjacent to the Willamette River and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Pricier, but the convenient location is well worth it!
Search for the best deals on downtown Portland hotels here!
2. ALBERTA ARTS DISTRICT
If someone gave me 90 minutes to explain Portland’s personality, I’d probably take them to Alberta Street.
This Portland neighborhood is a hodgepodge of independent coffee shops, murals, breweries, vintage stores, sidewalk art, and quirky gift shops. It’s all packed into a highly walkable stretch of Northeast Portland with a fun local vibe, which is part of why I keep coming back whenever I’m in town.
Last Thursday Art Walk
Once a month, the diverse neighborhood puts on a lively street fair called Last Thursday, which is a spinoff of the Pearl district’s “First Thursday” event.
This event is where musicians, performers, and local artists line Alberta Street displaying their talents and goods while tons of artwork is showcased in and around surrounding galleries, bars, and restaurants.
If you’re ever in Portland on a Thursday, this is an event not to be missed!
Check Out Street Art
The Alberta Arts District is teeming with colorful murals and graffiti covering many of the buildings. Take a stroll down Alberta Street and see what you can find!
It’s a long street, so if you’re on the hunt for street art and murals but crunched on time, start your walk from Tin Shed Garden Café and head towards Pine State Biscuits to Clary Sage Herbarium (0.7 miles).
You’ll find lots of murals covering building walls, utility boxes, and alleyways throughout the district. The artwork changes regularly, so even repeat visits feel different. I’ve walked this stretch multiple times and always seem to notice something new!
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. It’s a great people-watching spot too!
Bollywood Theater
Bollywood Theater is a tapas style / Indian street food restaurant. Very different fare from your average American Indian restaurant!
If you decide to try it, go for the bhel puri and kati rolls. The paneer kafti rolls are noted to be a flavor rush! This is a great option for lunch or dinner, but go early (5 pm) or late (after 8) to avoid the rush.
Salt & Straw
After eating your brunch/lunch/dinner, head on over for some truly delicious ice cream. Salt & Straw spotlights fresh, local ingredients in handcrafted, small-batch ice cream. They’ve got pretty creative flavors, such as pear with bleu cheese, Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper, and honey lavender.
If you’re not into all that, don’t worry, they have normal flavors that pack a punch as well. If you’re lost, just follow the aroma of the waffle cone wafting through the air.
Great Notion Brewing
You’re in Portland, so you’ll need to speckle some beer stops into your daily itinerary. If you’re in the Alberta District, check out Great Notion Brewing, located next to Pine State Biscuits.
They’re known for their iconic Blueberry Muffin Sour beer. Known for their innovative sours, stouts, and IPAs, they’ve expediently staked their claim in Portland’s robust craft beer scene. In addition to beer, they’ve got a full menu of quality pub food.
Local Tip: If you have a big group of friends and are looking for a place to eat that doesn’t have hours of wait time, breweries are a great option due to their ample and casual seating indoors/outdoors.
Stroll and explore the neighborhood
Allocate some time to walk and browse; take in what the neighborhood has to offer. There are so many unique shops on this street, ranging from independent craft shops to shoe stores, and gift/stationery stores to sticker shops.
That’s what is so great about Portland, the walkability and discoverability of the neighborhoods are never-ending.
My favorite shop in the Alberta Arts District is Clary Sage Herbarium, a small, intricately decorated shop selling various oils, herbs, and natural remedies (so quintessentially Portland, perfect for browsing).
Search for the best deals on Portland hotels in the Alberta Arts District now!
Read More: 35+ Affordable, Unique, and Off The Beaten Path Things To Do in Portland
3. SOUTHEAST BURNSIDE
Technically part of the Kerns and Buckman neighborhoods, East Burnside has so many restaurants, bars, music venues, vintage stores, and late-night hangouts packed into a few blocks that it feels like its own destination.
This is one of my favorite areas to spend an evening because you never really know what kind of Portland experience you’re going to get. One minute you’re browsing vintage clothing stores, the next you’re eating ice cream, catching a live show, or sharing drinks on a packed patio.
The crowd is a little bit of everything: skaters coming from Burnside Skatepark, concertgoers heading to nearby venues, vintage shoppers carrying bags of thrifted finds, and locals meeting friends for happy hour. If you’re only exploring one neighborhood east of the river, this is a strong contender.
Some ideas to get you started on your exploration of SE Burnside:
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.
Laurelhurst Theater
This charming cinema offers $4 second-run movies. Enjoy some Pizzicato pizza and local beer while you watch good flicks. After the movie, take a stroll down foodie row stretching north and south of East Burnside.
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… the flavors are pure creativity! They’ve got innovative, ethnic, and 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. They have other locations throughout Portland as well.
Rontoms
Walk in during happy hour between May and October, and pretty much every social demographic under age 40 is gathered on the back patio. A good place to begin your bar crawl!
Voicebox Karaoke
End your bar crawl night breaking out into song. Located in the historic Buckman neighborhood in Southeast Portland, Voicebox Karaoke offers private karaoke suites, a full bar, and an awesome food menu.
Burnside Skatepark
Even if you’ve never stepped foot on a skateboard, Burnside Skatepark is worth a quick stop. Tucked beneath the Burnside Bridge, this legendary skatepark is considered one of the most influential skateparks in the world.
The interesting thing? It wasn’t originally built by the city. In the early 1990s, local skateboarders began building ramps and other features beneath the bridge, transforming what was essentially an abandoned space into a community gathering place.
The project eventually gained support from the city and became one of the first internationally recognized DIY skateparks in the United States.
Today, skaters from around the world still make pilgrimages here to ride the bowls and transitions that helped shape modern skatepark design.
WHERE TO STAY IN SE BURNSIDE
- Jupiter NEXT – Features bright, modern rooms; guests can enjoy a private garden retreat with picturesque city views.
- Lolo Pass – Modern boutique hostel with 8-bed or 4-bed rooms. Perfect for bachelor/bachelorette parties or other groups of single people!
Search for Portland hotels in SE Burnside now!
4. NORTH MISSISSIPPI AVENUE
North Mississippi Avenue is one of those streets where it’s almost impossible not to stop every few blocks.
You’ll find coffee shops spilling onto sidewalks, breweries filled with locals, live music venues, vintage stores, food carts, brunch spots, and enough places to eat that you’ll probably wish you’d arrived hungry. The entire neighborhood is incredibly walkable, making it one of the easiest places in Portland to spend an afternoon without any real itinerary.
My favorite approach? Grab a coffee, start walking, and see what catches your eye.
Make sure you have room in your belly before heading over!
Gravy
Go here for brunch, but make sure you get there early! Gravy is a popular morning eatery known for their sausage gravy, platter-size hash browns, and overwhelmingly huge portions. In a good way!
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.
Explore the ReBuilding Center
The ReBuilding Center is a nonprofit organization that sells reclaimed building materials and supplies. It’s a great place to find unique items for your home or DIY project.
Prost Marketplace
One of Portland’s most popular food cart pods sits right next to Prost!, making it easy to pair German beer with whatever food you’re craving. You’ll find everything from Texas-style barbecue and burgers to Greek food, Mexican specialties, and vegan bowls.
This is one of my favorite places to bring indecisive groups because everyone can order something completely different and still sit together.
And then there’s Prost!, the best place in the city for German beer on tap. Not feeling like German food fare? They allow you to bring in food from the carts just outside their doorstep!
Mississippi Studios and Bar
Mississipi Studios is a local favorite for live music venues in Portland, also with a very notable beer garden! Sit inside or out in their large covered outdoor space with a fire pit. They show silent black and white horror films in the evening in their massive outdoor area.
The attached bar, Bar Bar, is tons of fun too — it’s a popular bar and restaurant that serves up burgers, fries, and other comfort food.
Interurban
Opened in 2011, Interurban is the second bar from Dan Hart and Chris Navarra in Portland.
Mustache-twirling gents and mounted antelope heads keep the spirit of 1910 alive! Sample pre-Prohibition–style cocktails alongside hand-dipped corn dogs. They also have amazing food on weekend mornings.
5. THE PEARL DISTRICT
The Pearl District is where Portland’s industrial past collides with its modern, design-forward personality.
Former warehouses have been transformed into lofts, galleries, breweries, coffee shops, and some of the city’s most sought-after restaurants. You’ll still spot old brick buildings, railroad tracks, and loading docks tucked between sleek condo towers and outdoor patios.
Of all Portland’s neighborhoods, the Pearl feels the most polished. It’s easy to spend half a day wandering without a plan, popping into bookstores, design shops, coffee roasters, galleries, and breweries as you go.
If you’re the type of traveler who likes walkable neighborhoods with plenty of places to browse, snack, and people-watch, you’ll probably enjoy the Pearl.
“First Thursdays”
If your visit happens to line up with First Thursday, rearrange your schedule. This is a monthly event where art galleries stay open late, local artists showcase new work, and the streets fill with people drifting between exhibits with a glass of wine in hand.
Even if you’re not particularly into art, it’s one of the easiest ways to experience the Pearl’s creative side while rubbing elbows with the locals.
Shop at the boutiques and high-end stores
The Pearl District is known for its high-end shops and boutiques, offering everything from designer clothing to handmade jewelry. It’s a great place to find unique and upscale items.
Need a coffee break? Don’t miss Sisters Coffee Company in The Pearl District!
Andina Restaurant
I first visited Andina for a birthday dinner and still remember it years later, which is saying something considering how much food I eat while traveling.
The restaurant helped introduce many Portlanders to modern Peruvian cuisine and remains one of the neighborhood’s most iconic dining destinations.
If you’ve spent the day hopping between food carts and breweries, Andina makes a great excuse to dress up a little and enjoy a slower, more memorable meal.
Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House
Deschutes is one of those renowned breweries in all of Oregon. If you’re beer tasting in the Pearl District, Deschutes is a great place to start!
You can expect good beer and good food! They have multiple locations throughout Oregon (in Roanoke, OR, Bend, OR and even the PDX airport).
Aside from Deschutes, the Pearl District is home to a variety of other breweries and distilleries, such as 10 Barrel Brewing Portland or Von Ebert Brewing + Kitchen. Take a tour and learn about the brewing and distilling process, and of course, sample some of the products!
WHERE TO STAY IN THE PEARL DISTRICT
- The Mark Spencer Hotel – A very charming boutique hotel located 1 minutes’ walk from Pearl District.
- The Hoxton – brings a design-forward, European-style stay right into the Pearl District.
6. NW 23RD AVENUE (NOB HILL)
If the Pearl District feels polished and modern, NW 23rd feels like Portland’s front porch.
Tree-lined streets, historic homes, cozy coffee shops, neighborhood pubs, independent boutiques, and sidewalk patios give the area a distinctly local feel. It’s one of the few neighborhoods in Portland where I can happily spend hours doing nothing more than walking around!
While you’ll find national retailers near the southern end of the street, the farther north you go, the more local the experience becomes. The side streets are worth exploring too—some of my favorite discoveries here have been cafés, bakeries, and shops I stumbled upon while wandering away from the main drag.
While walking around NW Portland, I’m sure you’ll be fantasizing about living here–I know we were….
Go Shopping
NW 23rd is one of Portland’s best streets for shopping, especially if you enjoy browsing your way through a neighborhood rather than heading straight to a mall.
You’ll find a mix of national brands and locally owned businesses selling everything from clothing and jewelry to home décor, gifts, specialty foods, and outdoor gear.
Some of my favorite stops include Schoolhouse, a Portland-based lighting and home goods company known for its timeless Pacific Northwest-inspired designs, and Tender Loving Empire, a fun shop showcasing products from local artists and makers.
If you’re willing to venture a short drive away, the Adidas Employee Store is one of Portland’s best shopping secrets. Best part? Nearly anyone can get in!
Just download the Adidas app and join the club for access. Once you’re inside, most merchandise is discounted around 40–50% off retail prices, making it a fantastic place to stock up on athletic wear, sneakers, and workout gear.
Breakside Brewery
Breakside Brewery is a few blocks away from 23rd in the NW Slabtown district.
If I only had time to visit one Portland brewery, Breakside would be high on my list. Their beers consistently win national awards, but what keeps me coming back is that they also make excellent food.
Grab a flight, split a few appetizers, and call it lunch.
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.
International Rose Test Garden
I know “rose garden” doesn’t sound particularly exciting on paper, but trust me on this one.
The International Rose Test Garden is one of Portland’s most iconic attractions for a reason. Thousands of roses bloom across terraced gardens overlooking downtown, Mount Hood, and the surrounding hills.
If you’re visiting between late May and early September, the fragrance alone is worth the trip. I ended up spending far longer here than I expected, simply wandering the pathways and taking in the views.
Best of all, admission is completely free.
The International Rose Test Garden, located in Washington Park, is 2 miles away from NW 23rd. You can take the bus or grab a Biketown bike to get here.
WHERE TO STAY IN NOB HILL
- Inn at Northrup Station – This retro style inn/hotel may look quirky as heck, but it’s much-loved by almost everyone who stays there!
7. HAWTHORNE BOULEVARD
Eclectic is the norm on Hawthorne Boulevard, one of Portland’s most character-filled streets.
Vintage clothing stores sit next to old-school record shops, neighborhood coffee houses, quirky gift stores, tattoo parlors, bookstores, cocktail bars, and restaurants serving everything from Thai food to pizza.
The longer you spend here, the more random and wonderful the neighborhood starts to feel.
When Papu and I spent a month living in Portland, our Airbnb was just off Hawthorne Boulevard. Because we were there for more than just a quick weekend trip, we got to experience the neighborhood the way locals do (grabbing coffee in the mornings, wandering into shops we hadn’t noticed before, and taking evening walks after stuffing our faces with an XL pizza at Apizza Scholls).
What I love most about Hawthorne is its unapologetic character. While some Portland neighborhoods have become more polished over the years, Hawthorne has held onto much of its independent spirit.
The best way to experience Hawthorne isn’t by rushing between attractions. Give yourself time to wander. Pop into a vintage shop, browse a bookstore, stop for a coffee, grab a drink, then keep walking.
There are seriously so many shopping, drinking and eating options! Explore a few of my favorite spots below.
Go Secondhand / Vintage Shopping
Hawthorne is the first place you should go if you’re looking for vintage clothing or antique home goods.
Notable vintage/consignment shops include House of Vintage, Focus Group, Buffalo Exchange, Crossroads Trading Co, Lounge Lizard, Magpie, and Red Light Clothing Exchange.
And this is just the tip of the iceberg! With these shops alone, you’re sure to find yourself buried in hours of shopping once you begin.
Bagdad Theater and Pub
One of the coolest historic buildings in Southeast Portland, Bagdad Theater first opened in 1927 and is instantly recognizable thanks to its ornate Moorish-inspired architecture and glowing marquee.
Today, it’s operated by McMenamins and combines a movie theater, pub, and gathering space all under one roof. This is a view-and-brew-style venue, meaning you can enjoy first-run movies while sipping local craft beer and snacking on burgers, pizzas, and other pub fare.
After the show, don’t rush out just yet. Head to the Backstage Bar hidden behind the movie screen for a game of pool, or grab another drink at the adjoining Bagdad Pub and soak in the vintage atmosphere.
Seven Virtues Coffee
Seven Virtues Coffee is one of those neighborhood coffee shops that makes you want to linger longer than planned. The café is known for serving carefully sourced coffee from around the world, with a focus on supporting farmers and promoting ethical trade practices.
If you’re looking for a souvenir that won’t collect dust, their freshly roasted coffee beans make an excellent gift to bring home!
Coava Coffee Roasters
Portland takes its coffee seriously, and Coava Coffee Roasters is one of the city’s most respected names in specialty coffee.
What started as a small local roastery has grown into a Portland institution known for sourcing high-quality beans and roasting them with precision. The industrial-chic cafés are bright, spacious, and ideal for a morning caffeine stop while exploring the neighborhood.
If you like coffee, stop in and give them a try! You’ll quickly understand why Coava has developed such a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Farmhouse Thai
Portland might actually have one of the strongest Thai food scenes outside of Los Angeles, and Farmhouse Thai is one of the restaurants that proves it.
If you’re expecting traditional Thai food, this is not what you will get. You’ll get Thai food with the utmost flair! The restaurant is known for its colorful, beautifully plated dishes that look almost too pretty to eat (but thankfully taste just as good as they look).
Try the slow-braised short ribs and the crab fried rice. Worth every penny…
Khao Moo Dang
Before visiting Portland, I never would have thought to seek out Thai-style breakfast and brunch, but Khao Moo Dang completely changed my mind. At this point, I’m ready to eat Thai food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
Named after a popular Thai pork dish, this cozy restaurant specializes in comforting rice and noodle dishes topped with roasted pork, crispy pork belly, and other savory additions. The menu is inspired by the casual street food and breakfast stalls commonly found throughout Thailand, offering flavors that are harder to find at typical Thai restaurants in the US.
At this point, I’ve been here 5+ times, and every single time the food has been nothing but excellent and comforting.
Apizza Scholls
Hands down my favorite NY-style pizza spot in all of Portland!!!
If you’re serious about pizza, Apizza Scholls deserves a spot on your Portland itinerary. Frequently ranked among the best pizzerias in the city, the restaurant takes inspiration from classic East Coast pizza while maintaining its own distinctly Portland identity.
The crust manages to be both chewy and crisp, with just enough char to add flavor without overpowering the toppings. They only sell whole pies, which might seem like a lot of pizza at first, but after your first few bites, you’ll understand why locals willingly wait for a table and why visitors make special trips across town to eat here.
Hawthorne Asylum
Despite its slightly spooky name, Hawthorne Asylum is one of Portland’s most welcoming and family-friendly food cart pods.
Located in the heart of Southeast Portland, this bustling gathering spot brings together dozens of food carts serving everything from tacos and burgers to international specialties and inventive desserts.
On warm evenings, the atmosphere is especially lively, with locals, visitors, families, and friend groups filling the communal seating areas and creating the kind of casual community vibe Portland does so well.
8. SE DIVISION STREET
Portland’s newest restaurant row, Division Street, is where locals and tourists alike come together to enjoy the shops, restaurants, and friendly neighborhood vibe.
Out of all the Portland neighborhoods we’ve explored, Division Street is the one where we could actually picture ourselves living. It’s walkable, leafy, full of independent businesses, and somehow manages to feel both lively and relaxed at the same time.
The neighborhood is so clean, green, and inviting! Not to mention, it’s one of the most bike-friendly areas of the entire city. The variety of shops, cafes, and bakeries is enough to keep you here for hours.
That combination of neighborhood charm and excellent food is hard to beat.
Stroll and Shop
Take a stroll down Division Street to check out what all the independent shops are selling. There’s a good variety of shopping to be done here, including stationery shops, clothing stores, record stores, tea shops, and more.
Tight Tacos
Okay, they certainly don’t beat tacos straight from Mexico or California, but the tacos and burritos at Tight Tacos are pretty darn good. They serve authentic Mexican street tacos using handmade tortillas and flavorful marinated meat.
The al pastor burrito is super jam-packed with meat, perfect for hungrier travelers looking to refuel.
Lauretta Jean’s
If you’re a pie person, this place belongs at the very top of your Portland food list.
Lauretta Jean’s serves some of the best pie I’ve had anywhere, period. The crust is impossibly flaky and buttery, the fillings are rich without being overly sweet, and there always seems to be a seasonal special tempting me away from my usual order.
Back when I first started visiting Portland, you could pretty much stroll in after dinner and expect to find whatever pie you wanted. These days, the secret is definitely out. On my last few trips, they’ve sold out of most pie flavors before their closing time.
Now, if I know I want pie later that night, I’ll stop by in the late afternoon (before dinner!) and snag my slices first.
My personal favorite is the Blueberry Victoria, which somehow manages to combine the best parts of cake and pie into one glorious dessert. If you are a fan of blueberries and textures and see it available, just order it.
St. Honoré Boulangerie
I’m always on the hunt for good French bakeries that transport me back to Paris, and this little neighborhood bakery delightfully does the job.
The bakery specializes in traditional French breads, pastries, sandwiches, and café fare, all made with techniques that feel refreshingly authentic.
Whenever I visit, I make a beeline for the pastry case. The kouign amann is wonderfully caramelized and buttery, while the raisin roll has become one of my favorite under-the-radar bakery finds in Portland.
Little Beast Brewing Beer Garden
Little Beast Brewing Beer Garden is an amazing farmhouse-style beer garden featuring all kinds of ales located on Division Street in Portland! This cozy brewhouse is literally located in an old cottage home.
The beer tastes great, the atmosphere is warm and casual, and their beer garden, which spans from the front yard all the way to the back of the property, is shaded by trees, provides coverage from the elements, and allows dogs!
It’s the perfect way to spend a late afternoon on Division.
ARTIFACT: CREATIVE RECYCLE
I discovered Artifact on my most recent trip to Portland, and it immediately became my favorite secondhand buy/sell/trade shop! Artifact sells both fashionable used clothing and stylish used furniture.
They tend to have more vintage styles like a lot of the traditional vintage shops on Hawthorne Blvd., but at a fraction of the cost. The affordability of the items sold here still blows my mind!
Olympia Provisions SE
Olympia Provisions helped put Portland on the map for artisan charcuterie, and it’s still one of my favorite places for a snack break between meals. The menu features house-cured meats, thoughtfully selected cheeses, sandwiches, pickles, and plenty of local beer and wine.
If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates cured meats as much as I do, this place can easily turn into an unexpectedly long lunch.
Their charcuterie boards are excellent, but don’t overlook the sandwiches (the beef tongue pastrami Reuben is particularly memorable).
The spacious patio makes it an easy stop on a sunny Portland afternoon.
WHERE TO STAY NEAR SE DIVISION
- Bluebird Guesthouse – This charming guesthouse provides a continental breakfast each morning, a garden, and quaint guestrooms!
- Tiny Digs Finlandia House –
- Evermore Guesthouse – All rooms at this guesthouse feature a private bathroom, some rooms have private outdoor patios. Bath robes, free toiletries, and a continental breakfast is included!
OTHER UNIQUE PLACES TO STAY IN PORTLAND, OR
Tiny Digs – Hotel of Tiny Houses
I swear, every time I walk by the lot where these charming tiny houses are located, I feel an extreme FOMO! (Fear of missing out, that is.) Tiny Digs offers one of the most unique hotel experiences in all of Portland!
All the guestrooms have different styles and themes, but all come with kitchenettes and memory foam beds. Check out all the different tiny houses you can choose from before settling on one to book!
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