The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Portland, USA

Experience the eclectic charm of Portland, where local bites and artisanal vibes collide.

22 April 2023

"Portland is a city that truly has it all for tourists. From the diverse food scene, to the stunning outdoors and beautiful city attractions, every visitor will find something to love. The unique neighborhoods of Hawthorne and Alberta provide an eclectic and vibrant atmosphere to explore, while the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood offer incredible natural landscapes to experience."

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Tasty n Alder, famous for their fried chicken and waffles or cast iron frittata.
  • Visit Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore spanning an entire city block. Get lost in their extensive collection and grab a coffee at their in-house cafe.
  • Walk through the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Admire the intricate architecture and serene landscape.
  • Have lunch at Lardo, known for their creative sandwiches such as the "Pho' French Dip" and "Pork Meatball Banh Mi". Don't miss their hand-cut fries.
  • Visit the Portland Art Museum and browse through their vast collection of art spanning centuries and continents.
  • End the day with dinner at Pok Pok, a renowned Thai restaurant featuring dishes like fish-sauce wings and spicy papaya salad. Enjoy a cocktail at their Whiskey Soda Lounge next door.
  • Hotel recommendation: The Ace Hotel, a trendy boutique hotel in the heart of downtown with unique decor and amenities.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures

  • Start the day with a coffee and pastry from Stumptown Coffee Roasters, a local favorite. Grab a picnic lunch to-go for later.
  • Hike through Forest Park, a vast urban forest with over 80 miles of trails. Take in the stunning views of the city from Pittock Mansion.
  • Spend the afternoon at the International Rose Test Garden, with over 10,000 roses of 650 varieties. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the fragrant blooms.
  • Have a picnic lunch at Washington Park, a massive park with multiple attractions including the Oregon Zoo and Portland Children's Museum.
  • Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) to learn about science and technology through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.
  • End the day with dinner at Tusk, a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant featuring vegetarian small plates and delicious cocktails.
  • Hotel recommendation: The Jupiter NEXT, a modern hotel with stylish rooms and a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the city.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Portland, United States by plane is by flying into Portland International Airport (PDX). Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest operate flights to PDX from major cities across the United States.

Car

Driving to Portland, United States is an excellent way to explore the Pacific Northwest region. You can take Interstate 5 (I-5) south from Seattle or north from San Francisco, depending on your starting location. The drive to Portland takes about 3 hours from Seattle and about 11 hours from San Francisco.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no passenger train services that operate to Portland, United States. Therefore, train is not a recommended mode of transportation to get to Portland.

Boat

Traveling to Portland, United States by boat is not a convenient way of transportation. However, there are some cruise lines that operate seasonal routes to the city, such as Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. The cruise ships dock at the Port of Portland, which is located in the city center.

Bus

One of the best ways to get to Portland, United States by bus is by taking the Greyhound bus service. Greyhound operates daily services to Portland from several cities in the United States, including Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Greyhound buses arrive at the Portland Bus Station.

Destination

Portland

Welcome to the city where everyone has a beard, yet somehow still manages to look unique. Portland is where hipsters go to retire and be cool.

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Portland's Quirky Charms: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Portland, United States offers a perfect blend of vibrant city life and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. Explore the enchanting Washington Park with its stunning Japanese Garden and world-class zoo. Immerse yourself in the city's quirky culture, indulge in delicious local food, and embark on scenic adventures along the Columbia River Gorge or the nearby Oregon Coast.

Sweet Escape: A 3-Day Romantic Trip to Portland

Portland is a splendid city in the United States that offers amazing romantic experiences to travelers. Couples can take a stroll through the enchanting Lan Su Chinese Garden, indulge in exquisite dining at award-winning restaurants, and explore the beautiful downtown area while hand in hand. With an array of elegant hotels and plenty of entertainment options, Portland is perfect for a romantic getaway.

Four Days of Family Fun: Portland's Quirky Adventures

Embark on a family-friendly adventure in Portland, United States, filled with captivating sights and activities for all ages. Explore the enchanting Oregon Zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with a variety of animals. Discover the interactive exhibits at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry or take a scenic hike through Forest Park for an unforgettable nature experience that the whole family will treasure.

Explore Portland's Culture and Nature on a Budget

Portland offers a thriving art, music, and food scene on a limited budget. Take advantage of the city's free and low-cost events, such as exploring the incredible local parks or visiting the Portland Art Museum on its free admission days. Savor the unique cuisine at the city's food truck pods and local breweries, which offer affordable dining options.