Travel Portland

Portland is a vibrant, quirky city influenced by the natural and agricultural landscapes that surround it, as well as the creative and independent residents who live here. Apt nicknames include Beervana, the City of Roses, and Stumptown (ask a local why!). Forest Park, Washington Park (home of the International Rose Test Garden and Portland Japanese Garden) and Lan Su Chinese Garden are just some of the outdoor jewels to explore. Portland boasts a fun array of additional must-see attractions, from Powell’s “City of Books” (largest new & used bookstore anywhere!) to Mill Ends park (world’s smallest park!).

Culinary offerings range from street fare at the abundant food carts to fine dining crafted by renowned chefs to brewpubs serving burgers and beers. Almost everything grows exceptionally well here, attracting cooks of all kinds to the plentiful farmers’ markets showcasing local farms and ranches. The region is also known for grape and hop production, so you know the wine and beer here are good! Ryan Reynolds gave a nod to the area’s distilleries when he purchased Aviation Gin; now guests can tour his gin joint and sample cocktails!

If you like a bargain, shopping is Tax-Free in Oregon! Portland’s fun shopping areas include bohemian Hawthorne Boulevard, fashionable Pearl District, trendy NW 23rd and the eclectic Mississippi District – not to mention downtown’s Pioneer Place. You’ll find exciting night life with the sort of fabulous live music, theatre and comedy clubs you’d expect from a cool city like Portland. Plus, this urban oasis is easy to get around – either by walking, public transport or renting a bike.

Portland neighbourhoods are colourful and historic, with Victorian houses and rustic charm reminiscent of the late 1800s/early 1900s. Nine Native American tribes still call Oregon home; their legacy is palpable at Portland Art Museum’s Center for Native American Art, Oregon Historical Society Museum and elsewhere around the state.

Portland’s dry and warm summers with mild springs and autumns make for plentiful hiking, biking and water play opportunities. Winters are usually mild – except on snow-capped Mount Hood, an hour+ from downtown, where snow sports dominate. Other local gems to visit any time of year include the waterfall-laden Columbia River Gorge, Tualatin Valley Wine Country and the scenic Oregon Coast.

Visit TravelPortland.com or your local travel professional for more info. And FYI, British Airways flies non-stop, LHR to PDX!