PORTLAND

What to do

  • Noteworthy
  • Worth the detour
  • Must see

Portland is a dynamic metropolis located in Oregon, in the northwestern United States. Known for its eclectic culture, green spaces and numerous microbreweries, Portland offers a diversity of neighborhoods, each with its own personality and unique attractions. As you stroll along, keep in mind that the city is famous for the quality of its coffee, so coffee shop breaks and tastings are welcome!
 

DOWNTOWN

Downtown and the surrounding area represent the heart of Portland, around Old Town, on the west bank of the Willamette River. It's a large, pleasant area that can be explored on foot, juggling moods and cultures.


PIONEER COURTHOUSE SQUARE

Often referred to as “Portland's living room”, this public square hosts numerous events throughout the year, a true meeting place.


PORTLAND ART MUSEUM

The oldest art museum on the West Coast houses a vast collection of works ranging from Native American to contemporary.


POWELL'S CITY OF BOOKS

Explore the world's largest independent bookstore, a veritable paradise for book lovers located in the heart of the Pearl District. In the surrounding streets, numerous contemporary art galleries and local designer boutiques will enhance your discovery.


PITTOCK MANSION

A little way from the center of town, just a stone's throw from numerous parks, this magnificent historic mansion built in 1914 offers panoramic views of the city and, on a clear day, Mount Hood from its terrace.
 

THE EASTERN SHORE OF THE WILLAMETTE RIVER

The other side of the river is home to a number of eclectic neighborhoods, more remote but easily accessible by public transport


ALBERTA STREET

To the north, the avenue is famous for its art galleries, colorful cafés and unique boutiques. Every last Thursday of the month, local artists exhibit their work outdoors, accompanied by music and street performances.


ANTIQUE ALLEY

A concentration of antique stores offering a variety of collectibles and curios, for thrift enthusiasts.


SOUTHEAST HAWTHORNE BOULEVARD

This colorful pedestrian street is home to vintage boutiques, independent bookstores and cafés.


MISSISSIPPI STUDIOS

Looking for a lively evening? Discover this intimate concert venue, renowned for its quality live music programming.


OAKS AMUSEMENT PARK

Located south of the city and ideal for late afternoons, this historic amusement park offers several rides and attractions with old-fashioned charm.
 

GARDENS AND PARKS

Sometimes nicknamed the “City of Roses” because of its many blooms in the summertime, Portland is home to countless green spaces that rival each other in beauty throughout the city.


LAN SU CHINESE GARDEN

Change scenery and head for China! With its exotic plants, winding paths and adorable pagoda-like teahouse, this little green space is sure to make you fall in love.


PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN

This is said to be the most beautiful Japanese garden in the world, outside Japan! As beautiful in spring as it is in autumn, this five-hectare park is vast yet intimate. It is located within the immense Washington Park, which is a perfect extension to the walk.


INTERNATIONAL ROSE TEST GARDEN

Washington Park is also home to an entire section dedicated to roses, which bloom between April and October, depending on the species. There are currently 10,000 groves representing over 650 varieties! roses, qui fleurissent selon les espèces entre avril et octobre. On recense actuellement 10 000 bosquets représentant plus de 650 variétés !


MOUNT TABOR PARK

Take in the sights and sounds of this ancient volcano from a height difference of around 130 metres. The slag cone has been landscaped for walkers, offering an impressive cut through the volcanic rock. With only six cities in the USA boasting their own volcanoes, this is a must-see for volcano enthusiasts! The park offers hiking trails for all levels and a breathtaking view of the city.


FOREST PARK

One of the largest urban parks in the United States, with a total surface area of over 2000 hectares. It offers miles of hiking trails shaded by a lush forest, particularly seductive in autumn.


Portland is a city where every neighborhood tells a different story, offering visitors a multitude of experiences to discover. Whether you're an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or a gourmet in search of new flavors, Portland has something to offer for every type of traveler.

 

NEARBY


MULTNOMAH FALLS

Multnomah Falls is just a forty-minute drive from downtown Portland. The site is accessible by a moderately difficult hike, but can also be approached by car and parked nearby. Fine and powerful, the superb two-tiered waterfall cascades down a total drop of 186 meters.


HOOD RIVER & THE FRUIT LOOP

A little further east, on the banks of the Columbia River, we discover the small town of Hood River. It's a friendly stop that allows you to encounter local life and its cultural heritage. Explore the fascinating collections of the Museum of Ancient Aircraft and Automobiles and the town's abundant galleries.

But the real must-see is Hood River Fruit Loop, a unique itinerary of farms, breweries, vineyards and orchards in the fertile valley. The route forms a loop of some 56 kilometers, ideal for discussions with producers and tasty tastings.


MOUNT HOOD

The immense Mount Hood is less than a two-hour drive from Portland and only an hour from Hood River. It was named by Captain George Vancouver during his explorations, after a British admiral.

This stratovolcano can be recognized by its snow-capped peak, which dominates the entire region and can be seen from Portland and Vancouver on a clear day. Once there, the hiking trail winds around the volcano.

The Timberline Hotel on the slopes of Mount Hood was the setting for Stanley Kubrick's famous film The Shining.

Location

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