Sure it's a smaller West Coast destination, but Portland
doesn't suffer from an inferiority complex. Forget about walkable, this city is
'bike-able.' Portland Oregon is comfortable in its own shoes and doesn't strive
to be the San Francisco or Seattle. Portlander's are an accepting lot and a
non-judgmental group where you are encouraged to "be true to
yourself."
Some cities are built on silver and other's are built on
gold-- but Portland, Oregon is a gem with a certain 'visit-ability' where
everything's right at hand or within quick access. It's an easy town to figure
out and simple to navigate from the funky vibe of the Alberta Arts District, to
the city’s posh Pearl District
and out as far as the stunning Silver Falls State Park. Nestled against
the picturesque backdrop of Mt. Hood- Portland, Oregon is not only a haven for
the micro brewery scene-- but also serves up some of the world's most renowned
wines.
Getting There:
Flights into Portland's International Airport (PDX) are a
straight shot and wide open... Fly US Airways while the getting is still good--
and before they are swallowed up by American Airlines.
Once you arrive, for only $2.50pp you can take the TriMet's MAX Red Line light
rail that will drop you off literally feet from your hotel in the city center. The
TriMet does a great job providing peace of mind, even conducting random security
sweeps before you board. However if you are dragging carry-on luggage, be prepared
for an arduous trek through the lengthy airport-- you may want to consider checking your bags so
you can pick them up at the baggage claim which is closer to the light rail
boarding area. Once there-- consider a seven day pass on the TriMet or simply
hop one of the ubiquitous cabs that prowl the city streets, as rates usually
never rise above ten dollars a ride.
Staying there:
In the Lloyd District, on the east side of the Willamette
River is the sparkling-- Hotel Eastlund. This brand new boutique property is appreciative
of all things intimate and luxurious... Their room have tight, modern feng shui
that is softened up through the use of textured throws, headboards and nice
finishing touches that lend to an unparalleled sense of comfort. and thoughtful
of all the essential amenities... including free Wi-Fi and personal service.
Within steps of the Oregon Convention Center and Portland’s
Moda Center, Hotel Eastlund is easily accessible by Portland Streetcar as well
as the MAX light rail system, making the property the perfect base camp point
for exploring all nooks and crannies of the city. Hotel Eastlund is so new,
however, that most taxicab drivers don't even know it's completed and have
trouble finding the entrance so allow for some time waiting for your cab to
arrive.
Hotel Vintage
Portland
However, the ideal launching pad for any extended
Portland stay is the exclusive, yet pricey Hotel
Vintage. Being centrally located in the heart of downtown grants you the
flexibility of walking-- or use of their onsite bicycles-- to Portland's most
vibrant downtown destinations... like Pioneer Courthouse Square, Pioneer Place
mall, Powell's Books and the Pearl District.
Everything you need for unforgettable Portland travel
experience is right here in this stylish, urban retreat that has been a
mainstay of the city for generations. Hotel
Vintage offers you the best of everything including gourmet food, leisure
activities in their gaming area, and of course-- luxurious accommodations.
Whether you choose
to stay at the property be sure to take in some outstanding dining at their Pazzo Restaurant. The Pazzo Restuarant is
arguably one of downtown's finest restaurants and a bastion of good eats for
Portlanders and visitors alike.
Things to Do:
Willamette Valley
Wine Tour
The Evergreen Escape's shuttle van will meet your party
right outside your hotel... Then you will be whisked away on an enchanting tour
of the Willamette Valley, home to home to many of the regions award-winning
Pinot Noir wines. Your conversant guide will enlighten you with rich history of
Oregon wine country and why soil is ideal for handcrafting world class Pinot
Noir. Bring out your inner wine
connoisseur on this half day-- all things grape-- (or should I say, great) expedition. evergreenescapes.com
Portland Saturday
Market
Every Saturday, under the Burnside Bridge Portland hosts
one of the largest craft markets in all of the Pacific Northwest. Get there
early and enjoy the festive atmosphere and energy as the local vendors prepare
for a day of brisk sales. Located in historic downtown feature the highest
quality arts and handmade crafts. If you looking for a few one of a kind gifts
to bring home to the family and friends, this is the place to find them. portlandsaturdaymarket.com
The Washington
Park Area- hosts numerous activities for the entire family to experience.
Below are just a sampling of family fun:
Stop! And smell...
If the park's Japanese Gardens aren't enough to excite
the visual senses-- all you need to do is cross the road and discover why they
refer to Portland as, 'The City of
Roses.' As you descend into the bountiful array of rose varieties, you will
immediately be greeted by the flower's
potent fragrance. Photo opportunities are never ceasing and the Portland International Rose Test Garden will be appreciated by all ages.
Hoyt Arboretum
Take a stroll around the trails of the Hoyt Arboretum,
featuring a collection of trees and perennial display gardens. Kids will
delight in the exploration of the raw nature of the Pacific Northwest as they
meander through groves of humongous trees. hoytarboretum.org
The Oregon Zoo-
Children's excitement is palpable, literally when they are here-- their feet do
not touch the ground. Be the hero parent by taking the kids to this wonderful
zoo. oregonzoo.org
Dining There:
Embrace life's unexpected delectability with a Breakfast at Tasty and Sons
-
Dominating Portland’s popular brunch scene, the two Tasty restaurants serve up
an eclectic and innovative menu--. The flavorful culinary collision of
their signature dishes are simply scrumptious. The small plate servings are
meant for family-style sharing. The restaurant's Bloody Mary's are the perfect
antidote to a late night out. www.tastynsons.com
Natural
Selections
Go meatless in one of the city’s most funkified and
beatnik neighborhoods--the Alberta Arts District. Chef and owner Aaron Woo
conjures up his sophisticated 'mostly vegan, and completely vegetarian' menu
featuring only the freshest of Oregon’s produce. Trust me, seats in this
intimate of a setting are coveted... so book your reservations now, or there
will be little opportunity dining at this wildly popular (but expensive)
vegetarian restaurant.
Trifecta Tavern and Bakery
It must be named Trifecta-- 'cuz they nail it right
-- one, two and three-- Where else can
you find an appetizer consisting of American ham on hot rolls covered with drizzled honey
alongside raw oysters on the half shell? This mash up blend of bistro, bakery
and bar-- is a do not miss anytime you visit Portland. A strong old school cocktail
and wine approach complement the wide array of comfort food available in this
Eastside gem of a restaurant.
No comments:
Post a Comment