It seems like everyone I know is talking about Portland, Oregon. They either want to move there or they already have. Portland is the capital of "cool" with amazing art and music along with fantastic food! Portland is home base for alternative rock bands, edgy chefs and urban-planning junkies. People who visit Portland will be greeted by friendly, easygoing and happy locals.
When visiting Portland there are dozens of things to try and even more places to visit.
As far ad food goes, do not miss the fabulous food carts–serving Lebanese, Italian, Japanese and Thai treats, among others. There are even Fijian and Transylvanian food trucks. To find out which food trucks you would like to try, visit the Food Carts Portland site. Eating in Portland is an experience within itself. The burgers are made from locally sourced beef and served with kale. The beer is crafted in a microbrewery. And did I mention the coffee? Portland is a coffee lovers paradise. Support the local shops!
The famous "Porklandia"
Looking for a great place to grab brunch? Try Tasty n Alder. They have mouth-watering cast-iron frittatas with butternut squash and Gruyère cheese. Grab a Bloody Mary topped with bacon or jalapenos.
In a city as green as Portland, it is fitting that some of the top attractions are outdoor spots. There are more than 200 parks within the city limits–from marshlands to forests and trails to skateboard parks. In the downtown district, do not miss Director Park. It is Portland's newest park. It features a cafe, outdoor seating and a gorgeous fountain. The park also hosts numerous events during the year. Lan Su Chinese Garden is located in the Old Town/Chinatown district. It has covered walkways, bridges, open colonnades and gorgeous landscapes. Public tours are available.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Director Park
Portland has a reputation for being home of "tree huggers" and understandably so. There are trees everywhere and the parks are so inviting. Forest Park is one of the most popular places to bike, run and dog walking. It flanks the hills on the west side of the city and just 10 minutes from downtown. It is one of the largest wooden urban parks in the United States and filled with more than 70 miles of walking and hiking trails.
Forest Park
For more information on parks and outdoor activities in Portland, visit their Parks & Recreation site.
Portland is very bike friendly, in fact, more than 6% of the city residents commute by bike daily. The city has designated bike trails throughout. While visiting, rent a bike and ride over the bridges. They are all beautiful. There are eight bridges in the city, so enjoy the riveting views and take a bike tour!
Everyone knows that Portland is know for microbreweries. Over 30 to be exact. The beer scene is undeniably awesome. Take a tour of the breweries or attend a beer festival. The city has a passion for excellence and it is apparent in their beer!
Another thing that goes great with beer? Movies! Portland is also home to Movie Brewpubs. For only $3 you can see a movie, sit on comfy couches and grab your favorite draft beer. Why is this not EVERYWHERE?
One of Portland's nicknames is the "City of Roses" and it certainly makes sense. It is home to the International Rose Test Garden. Open from April-October to the public. The tour is free to walk among the luscious beautiful garden of over 7,000 roses. The garden is a must see when visiting Portland.
Now when can I move to Portland??
No comments:
Post a Comment