Portland is a hip, urban hotspot with national accolades for its cuisine as well as a vibrant arts scene, great theatres and funky shopping districts inspired by the creative spirit of the city.

Portland is a vibrant and laid-back city inhabited by eco-conscious residents who ride bikes everywhere, to and from work, restaurants, school, theatre – urban commuting is just one element of the city’s booming bike culture. Get a taste for the food scene at some of the more than 500 food carts. Serious culinary talent cook in these small mobile kitchens, which are located in ‘pods’ all over the city. Try every waffle, taco, and plate of poutine within the International collection.

The city is dotted with small squares and parks offering coffee shops and an urban city feel. The most prestigious being Pioneer Square where recently the awards ceremony for the international games were held. Make sure you try to test the Squares acoustics which has a bizarre amplification effect.

A new crop of urban wineries is producing wine inside city limits, and you can visit their tasting rooms to try numerous vintages, while Distillery Row is home to six local distilleries making everything from whiskey and gin to rum and aquavit. Since you’re in ‘Beervana’, don’t miss taprooms at some of the cities more than 50 craft breweries, which brew everything from barrel-aged beers to hoppy India Pale Ales.

Shopping is great in the Pearl District, once an industrial area that now holds upscale boutiques and the city’s highest concentration of galleries. Be sure to check out Northwest 23rd Avenue, a stretch inside a residential neighbourhood with big trees and old bungalows that holds clothing shops, shoe stores, and fine restaurants. In North Portland, Mississippi Avenue has a quirky artistic vibe – imagine comic books, a garden store with chickens and a store filled with chocolate, salt, and fresh flowers.

Portland Parks & Gardens

Washington Park – located atop the hills west of downtown, Washington Park is one of the oldest and well-used parks in Portland. Its grounds include the International Rose Test Garden, Japanese Garden, Hoyt Arboretum, Oregon Zoo, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Holocaust Memorial, World Forestry Centre, and the Portland Children’s Museum.

Lan Su Chinese Garden – Covered walkways, bridges, open colonnades and a richly planted landscape frame a small lake, creating ever-changing views. This urban oasis of tranquil beauty was built by artisans from Suzhou, Portland’s Chinese sister city.

Forest Park – Northwest of downtown, this eight-mile ‘forest in the city’ provides respite from urban life and supports hundreds of different bird and mammal species. Enjoy over 70 miles of trails.

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden – This southeast Portland park features nearly 2,500 rhododendrons and azaleas, as well as 94 species of birds.

Mills End Park – at just 24 inches (61 cm) in diameter, this is the world’s smallest dedicated park. Located in the median of a busy street, Mills End was created in 1948 when a journalist planted flowers in the pothole below his office window.

Portland Attractions & Museums

Oregon Zoo – The west’s oldest zoo, located just minutes from downtown Portland in friendly Washington Park, is home to 2,200 animals.

Portland Art Museum – Founded in 1892, the museum is noted for its Native American art. extensive permanent collection, outdoor sculpture garden and special exhibitions.

Oregon Historical Society – Across the verdant park from Portland Art Museum, this institution introduces visitors to Oregon’s intriguing past with an impressive collection of artefacts and artwork.

Museum of Contemporary Craft – One of Portland’s oldest treasures, this museum houses more than 1,000 craft objects.

Oregon Museum of Science & History – This hands-on museum features fun exhibits, the Northwest’s largest planetarium and the USS Blueback, a decommissioned U.S. Navy submarine.

World Forestry Centre Discovery Centre Museum – Located in Washington Park, this interactive family-friendly museum educates visitors about the wonder and beauty of forests both in the Pacific Northwest and around the world.

Pittock Mansion – This historic estate, perched above downtown, was the home of Portland’s pioneers Henry and Gorgiana Pittock from 1914 to 1919. The mansion offers a glimpse into the city’s history and boasts idyllic views from its manicured gardens.

Experience & Explore

How Can We Help?

  • North America Travel Service
  • The Kennedy Building,
    48 Victoria Road,
    Leeds, LS11 5AF
  • GET DIRECTIONS
Join our newsletter

Get updates on the latest offers, news, events and more.