Portland, OR Travel Guide

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Whether you call it PDX, P-town, Stumptown, the City of Roses, Bridge City, or simply Portland, you’ll want to visit this vibrant destination in the. Read More

Whether you call it PDX, P-town, Stumptown, the City of Roses, Bridge City, or simply Portland, you’ll want to visit this vibrant destination in the Pacific Northwest for its eccentric locals, its dynamic downtown—resplendent with microbreweries, coffee shops, brunch spots, and book stores—and the sweeping natural scenery that surrounds it, like the sparkling Willamette River and majestic Mount Hood.

Eco-conscious travelers shouldn’t pass up a chance to visit Portland for some of the greenest urban policies in the United States, while food and drink connoisseurs will flock to the city for the best local microbrews and ultra-hip eateries tucked into charming urban pockets throughout the city. Everyone will appreciate the cultural offerings and natural sites. No matter what interests you, T+L’s Portland travel guide has you covered.

With forward-thinking chefs, green urban spaces, and a laid-back sensibility, Portland, Oregon, makes for the perfect getaway. While the sprawling Southeast area is popular for its indie shops and Craftsman bungalows, it’s also home to Division Street, the city’s newly minted restaurant row. The Pearl District remains its most upscale area, with the shopping and luxury lofts to match, while downtown’s creative hub in the West End caters to hipsters at packed cafés and buzzy lounges.

Portland’s climate is mild year-round, but winters bring cloudy weather and lots of rain. Plan your visit in the spring to see rhododendrons, azaleas, cherry trees, and roses come into full bloom amid occasional spring showers, or visit in summer to experience long, dry days and warm temperatures, with plenty of outdoor festivals to keep you busy (there’s the Portland Rose Festival, Oregon Brewers Festival, MusicfestNW, Time-Based Art Festival, and the Pedalpalooza bike festival, to name but a few). Go in the fall if you’re looking for slightly cooler weather, or to experience the city’s many cultural offerings, including musicals, opera, ballet, and the Portland symphony.