Discover Portland, Oregon
Have you dreamt of a city where art, cuisine, and culture collide amidst a backdrop of verdant landscapes and urban sophistication? Welcome to Portland, Oregon! Downtown Portland, the heart of the city, encapsulates a perfect blend of artistic flair and modern amenities. Imagine waking up in a cozy studio in North Portland, sunlight streaming in as you sip on your artisanal coffee. Portland’s neighborhoods, each with its unique character, beckon you to explore. The trendy Mississippi and Alberta Art Districts burst with galleries, boutiques, and venues for the music enthusiast.
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Three Fun Facts about Portland
Food Truck Paradise
Portland is renowned for its food truck scene. The city has a diverse array of food carts offering various cuisines, from gourmet donuts to international street food. The food truck culture is deeply ingrained in the city’s culinary landscape, contributing to its reputation as a foodie haven.
Forest Park – Urban Wilderness
Portland is home to Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Covering over 5,100 acres, Forest Park offers a lush and expansive natural retreat within the city limits. It features numerous trails for hiking, running, and biking, providing residents and visitors with a unique blend of urban and natural experiences.
City of Roses
Portland is often referred to as the “City of Roses.” This nickname originated in 1888 when Georgiana Burton Pittock, a prominent citizen, encouraged the planting of roses and the establishment of the first Rose Festival. Today, Portland’s International Rose Test Garden is a popular attraction, showcasing over 10,000 rose bushes of approximately 650 varieties.
Must See Attractions
Oregon Zoo
Zoo
The Oregon Zoo is a popular attraction known for its conservation efforts and diverse collection of animals. It provides visitors with an educational and engaging experience in a beautifully landscaped setting.
International Rose Test Garden
Nature & Parks
The International Rose Test Garden captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty. It boasts over 10,000 rose bushes representing hundreds of varieties and stands as a testament to the city’s well-deserved moniker, the “City of Roses.”
Powell’s City of Books
Shopping
Powell’s City of Books, a literary landmark in Portland, is a book lover’s paradise. It spans an entire city block and houses an extensive collection of new and used books that draw bibliophiles worldwide.
The Grotto
Nature & Parks
The Grotto is a serene sanctuary against towering fir trees and lush gardens. It features a stunning outdoor chapel and a peaceful meditation space, making it a tranquil retreat for reflection and spiritual contemplation.
Columbia River Gorge
Nature & Parks
The awe-inspiring Columbia River Gorge is famous for its windsurfing scene—maybe give it a whirl? Even if you don’t, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore and waterfalls, like the majestic Multnomah Falls, to discover.
Oregon Coast
Nature & Parks
Ready for some ocean air? The Oregon Coast is less than a two-hour drive, and 363 miles of public coastline are waiting for you. Whether you explore the tide pools, spot some whales, or relax with the sand between your toes is all up to you!
Lakes Near Portland
Trillium Lake
National Forest Development Road 2612, Government Camp, Oregon
Nestled in the shadow of Mount Hood, Trillium Lake is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying stunning mountain views.
Distance from Portland: 60 miles
Activities: Kayaking, boating, swimming, ice fishing, picnicking
Timothy Lake
NF-57, Sandy, Oregon
Situated in the Mount Hood National Forest, Timothy Lake offers a serene boating, fishing, and camping setting.
Distance from Portland: 80 miles
Activities: Fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating
Hagg Lake (Henry Hagg Lake)
50250 SW Scoggins Valley Rd., Gaston, Oregon
Located west of Portland near Forest Grove, Hagg Lake is a reservoir surrounded by lush forests. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, and picnicking in this scenic area.
Distance from Portland: 35 miles
Activities: Boating, fishing, picnicking, kayaking
Fishing Spots Near Portland
Estacada Lake
Just 33 miles from Portland lies Estacada Lake, a serene 150-acre reservoir on the Clackamas River. You won’t need a boat to access the water here—there’s a fishing dock and an ADA-accessible fishing platform. Imagine hooking trout, steelhead, chinook, or coho in these peaceful waters.
Fishing: Dock, kayaking, shoreline
Species: Trout, catfish, bass
Willamette River
If you’re yearning for riverside fishing, venture to the banks of the Willamette River that winds through Portland. The Willamette offers many fish species, but it’s especially known for its bass population.
Fishing: Shoreline, kayaking
Species: Salmon, steelhead, catfish, bass
Columbia River
The Columbia River isn’t exactly a secret, but there are spots along its majestic flow that not every angler knows about. Find your own cozy nook along this mighty waterway, and you might hook a sturgeon or walleye.
Fishing: Shoreline, kayaking
Species: Sturgeon, walleye, salmon, steelhead, shad
Best Hiking Trails Within One Hour of Portland
Wahclella Falls Trail
Wahclella Falls Trail, Cascade Locks, Oregon
Craving a quick nature fix? You’ll love the Wahclella Falls Trail. This easy two-mile hike will lead you to an awe-inspiring waterfall perfect for those Instagram snaps!
Distance: Two miles
Type: Out & back
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 94 m
Time to Complete: One hour
Wildwood Trail and Leif Erickson Drive Trail Loop
Leif Erikson Germantown Trail Head, NW Leif Erikson Dr, Portland, ORegon
Are you a bit more adventurous? Gear up for Forest Park, where 80 miles of trails await. Want to combine history and scenery? Find your way to Pittock Mansion for some breathtaking views of Mount Hood.
Distance: 4.5 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 139 m
Time to Complete: Two hours
Dogwood Wild Cherry Loop Trail
Dogwood Trailhead, Dogwood Trail, Portland, Oregon
Located in the scenic Tryon Creek State Natural Area, the Dogwood Wild Cherry Loop Trail offers a delightful 2.5-mile loop that showcases the area’s rich biodiversity. This relatively easy trail winds through a beautiful forest of Douglas firs, bigleaf maples, blooming dogwoods and wild cherries in the spring. The gentle terrain makes it accessible for families and casual hikers, providing a peaceful retreat with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the serenity of nature.
Distance: 2.5 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 154 m
Time to Complete: 1.5 hours
Best Golf Courses Around Portland
Eastmoreland Golf Course
2425 SE Bybee Blvd, Portland, Oregon
A true Portland gem, the historical Eastmoreland isn’t just old school—it’s like a history lesson with each swing. Opened in 1917, this course has hosted the 1933 and 1990 U.S. Amateur Public Links. Its challenging, narrow, tree-lined fairways will keep you honest and your game sharp!
Holes: 18
Design: H. Chandler Egan
Best For: Historical charm
Notable: Hosted major amateur events
Riverside Golf & Country Club
8105 NE 33rd Dr, Portland, Oregon
If exclusivity is your thing, Riverside might be your swing. Although it’s a private club, it’s worth mentioning because its course requires a savvy strategic approach. And don’t be fooled by its shorter length on the scorecard; this course packs a punch!
Holes: 18
Best For: Exclusive experience
Location: Close to the airport
Tip: Bring your tactical A-game
Heron Lakes Golf Club
3500 N Victory Blvd, Portland, Oregon
Fancy a quick round before or after work? Heron Lakes is where you need to be. Just 15 minutes from downtown, and with the Great Blue and Greenback courses offering options for serious and casual golfers, it’s perfect for squeezing a game into your busy schedule.
Holes: 36
Best For: Accessibility and variety
Location: North Portland
Tips on Renting a Vacation Property in Portland
Research Neighborhoods
Portland has diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character. Research the neighborhoods to find one that suits your preferences regarding atmosphere, proximity to attractions, and safety.
Book in Advance
Portland is a popular destination, so booking your vacation rental well in advance ensures you have a broader selection of properties and better prices.
Verify Location
Use maps and other resources to verify the vacation property’s location. Ensure it’s conveniently located for your planned activities and in a neighborhood that aligns with your preferences.
Inspect the Property upon Arrival
Upon arrival, inspect the vacation property for any issues and report them to the host immediately. This can help avoid disputes over damages later on.
Frequently Asked Questions about Portland
Portland does offer waterfront vacation rentals that provide stunning views and a serene atmosphere. These properties often feature decks or balconies overlooking rivers or lakes, adding a picturesque flair to your stay.
Absolutely! Whether you’re looking for a historic cabin with a private outdoor hot tub or a contemporary condo with shared spa facilities, various options offer a relaxing soak after a day of exploring.
Vacation rentals with pools can be found throughout Portland, especially in suburban areas or high-end condominiums. Filter your searches on rental platforms or inquire directly with property management services to pinpoint these refreshing gems.
Yes, Portland is home to pet-friendly vacation rentals, so you can bring along your furry friends. Some may provide dog beds and toys, and it’s common for such accommodations to charge additional fees to cover extra cleaning.
For a touch of luxury, look for rentals offering amenities such as hot tubs, full gourmet kitchens, and downtown proximity. Suites boasting historical charm combined with modern comforts can elevate your stay to the next level.