Location: Portland
Top Things to do in Portland
What to do and see in Portland, Oregon (OR): The Best Sights & Landmarks
You’ll wonder why you don’t live in Portland after you’ve visited this laid-back and friendly city. With a reputation for manicured parks, eclectic nightlife, fine micro-breweries and distilleries, and nature that cuts right into the city, Portland’s a Pacific Northwest must-visit. Don’t miss the famous Japanese Garden, one of the largest and most beautiful of its kind outside of Japan.
Restaurants in Portland
1. Portland Center Stage at The Armory
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 193 reviews
Portland Center Stage at The Armory is the largest theater company in Portland that produces fully professional theatrical production for the community, and is one of the 20 largest regional theater companies in the United States. There are two theaters located inside The Armory: the 590-seat U.S. Bank Main Stage and the 190-seat Ellyn Bye Studio. Established in 1988 as an offshoot of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the company became independent in 1994. An estimated 150,000 visitors attend The Armory annually to enjoy a mix of classical, contemporary and world premiere productions, along with the annual JAW: A Playwrights Festival, and a variety of high quality education and community programs. Eleven productions are offered each season, in addition to roughly 400 community events. The Armory was the first building on the National Register of Historic Places — and the first performing arts venue in the country — to achieve a LEED Platinum rating.
Reviewed By acepdx
Portland Center Stage puts on a variety of plays each season, with consistent high quality of production, acting, and selection of material. It's a just right size hall, with accessible food and beverage before shows. If one had to pick a bone, it would be too few restrooms, especially for women. That's a bit of a surprise, as this venue was built relatively recently.
2. Northwest (Nob Hill)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 161 reviews
A grocer from San Francisco opened a store on NW 23rd over a hundred years ago and named it after the uppercrust S.F. neighborhood.
Reviewed By Ginx60
Plenty of nice little boutiques. The southern end of 23rd avenue has big name shops but the northern and has the boutiques. From clothes to shoes to books to paraphernalia. Interspersed with the boutiques are plenty of dining and drinking options. A nice way to spend a few hours with people you care about.
3. Sellwood
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 97 reviews
Neighborhood with a pleasant, small shopping area with dozens of antique shops.
4. Pittock Mansion
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,529 reviews
Built in 1914, Pittock Mansion was a modern home with unique architecture and the latest technology. Experience the story of Portland through the lives of one of its most influential families and get to know the pioneer spirit behind its transformation from “stumptown” to modern, industrial city.
Reviewed By backpacker31 - Boynton Beach, United States
This is a must-see when in Portland. It’s location close to downtown Portland (but feels a world away) makes it a perfect excursion. I took the self-guided tour of the mansion’s interior which was well worth the $12 cost of admission. The (at that time) state-of-the-art household features such as recessed lighting, massaging/spa shower, individually controlled lighting, thermostat, refrigeration room and local/long distance telephone system are incredible. Although most of the household furnishings are not original to the house (or the Pittock family), I found it quite fascinating to learn how they acquired these from other local families in similar sociology-economic circles who lived at the time as the Pittocks. The history of the home’s construction, it’s decline and subsequent abandonment and its massive restoration is amazing. The grounds are lovely and the front lawn has some of the best views overlooking Portland and beyond (on a clear day you can see Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens and more).
5. The Grotto - National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,302 reviews
An internationally renowned Catholic sanctuary set among 62 acres of botanical gardens, offering a place of peace and quiet reflection for all people. More than 100 beautiful statues,reflection ponds, and views offer inspiration to all who visit.
Reviewed By bennyDDDD - Honolulu, United States
Beautiful trilliums are absolutely everywhere, along with every other beautiful flower you can think of. There is a abundance of peaceful places to sit and think, including many catholic sculptures and little cutesy ponds. When I went it was almost empty, I ran into very few people in the upper garden. The admission price is low and I think the price is well worth seeing these upper gardens, as the whole grounds are well maintained and manicured to perfection. The lower trail and grotto are also beautiful and serene, and the little chapel always has it's doors open if you wish to venture in.
6. Pearl District
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,115 reviews
An area of Portland that offers fine dining and businesses.
Reviewed By SkykomishBob - Olympia, United States
We never miss hitting the Pearl St. Galleries when we visit Portland. There are world class artists and excellent local artist as well. Plus there's always Powell Book Store and Whole Foods, both worth spending time enjoying
7. Eastbank Esplanade
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 37 reviews
Reviewed By travgal0766
With half a day to spare before meeting friends, this walk was a jewel. I don't live near a river, so just strolling along taking in the views was enjoyable. Walking across the Steel Bridge was a neat experience, especially when a boat came through and the pedestrian walkway had to be raised. Very cool. The floating walkway on the east side is a fun addition to the trail. I did have to be watchful of cyclists as it was a sunny warm Saturday afternoon. A great urban exercise opportunity!
8. Willamette Valley
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 884 reviews
Best known for its diverse agriculture, this verdant valley is flanked by the Coast Range and the Cascades.
Reviewed By Soccermike1015 - Asheville, United States
Very beautiful area, amazing scenery, tons of wineries and lots of things to do. Be sure to check out the Air Museum before you drink too much wine !
9. Vietnam Veterans Living Memorial
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 40 reviews
Reviewed By MEC15_12 - Sandwich, United States
Having grown up during the Vietnam War it was important for me to stop and visit this memorial while in Portland. As many others have stated I found this to be a beautiful and peaceful living memorial. The gardens and trees are exquisite, the circular walk and bridge allow one to walk in the peace and quiet of the grounds and remember the men and women who lost their lives during the Vietnam War. Along the walk there are beautiful panels broken down into short spaces of time from 1959-1975 that list the names of the fallen as well as what was taking place in towns throughout Oregon while these brave men and women were fighting so far away. Oregon has done a beautiful job remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
10. St. Johns Bridge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 579 reviews
Reviewed By PickyBaer - Portland, United States
This is one of the most famous, loved, and walked bridges in the Portland area. Originally built as the test for the Golden Gate, the gothic spires soar majestically over the road and walkways.
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