“Whether you are an avid reader or just enjoy browsing titles, Powells City of Books is a must see. "...the largest used and new bookstore in the world, occupying an entire city block and housing approximately on million books." powells.com”

“At 5,200 acres, this is the largest park within any U.S. city. It gets very popular in summer, especially on week- ends, so if you want to check it out be prepared to embrace the crowds. See Witch's Castle under Hikes. ”

“When His Excellency Nobuo Matsunaga, the former Ambassador of Japan to the United States, visited Portland Japanese Garden, he proclaimed it to be “the most beautiful and authentic Japanese garden in the world outside of Japan.” The Garden sits nestled in the hills of Portland, Oregon’s iconic Washington Park, overlooking the city and providing a tranquil, urban oasis for locals and travelers alike. Designed in 1963, it encompasses 12 acres with eight separate garden styles, and includes an authentic Japanese Tea House, meandering streams, intimate walkways, and a spectacular view of Mt. Hood. This is a place to discard worldly thoughts and concerns and see oneself as a small but integral part of the universe. Born out of a hope that the experience of peace can contribute to a long lasting peace. Born out of a belief in the power of cultural exchange. Born out of a belief in the excellence of craft, evidence in the Garden itself and the activities that come from it. Born out of a realization that all of these things are made more real and possible if we honor our connection to nature.”

“I could spend a whole day at OMSI, easy. Between the Exhibits, the Planetarium and IMAX theater, the submarine tours, and the excellent waterfront location and café, this is one of my favorite stops in Portland. The view from the East Bank across the river to Portland downtown is one of the best, and it is fun to walk the East Bank Riverwalk. You can make a nice riverfront loop by crossing one of the bridges, going down the West Bank waterfront, then coming back across a different bridge to rejoin the East Bank Riverwalk. There are also the Hawthorne docks where you can get down to the river. OMSI is great for grownups and kids alike. Take a look at their listings for special events, like the Maker's Faire, and adult only "after dark" evening programs where you get to mix science and some of your favorite adult beverages often catered by local craft brewers, vintners and distilleries. Seeing a movie in the IMAX theater is an amazing experience. Great in summer or on those long rainy winter days!”

“A sandstone home of two of Portland’s iconic pioneers with breathtaking views. Join a guided tour of the inside of the mansion or just enjoy the 46 acres of lush grounds around the property. ”

“An old elementary school turned restaurant/bar/theater/hotel? What’s not to be intrigued about? Bring $5, a bathing suit, and a towel and you can even pop in the soaking pool for a swim, beer (or wine) in hand! If you aren’t familiar with the McMenamjn brothers, they have over 60 locations in the NW - most of which are quirky, unique spots similar to this. Good beer, cheap 2nd run movies, and a cool atmosphere are a plus, the wait for service can be kind of a drag from time to time, though.”

“Community supported since 1888, Oregon Zoo provides exceptional experiences to more than 1.5 million visitors a year to inspire them to create a better future for wildlife. From education programs to on-the-ground conservation efforts, the zoo is working to save species regionally and worldwide. The Oregon Zoo is community-funded through visitor admissions, public funds from Metro (a Portland-area regional government) and charitable donations to the Oregon Zoo Foundation. The 64-acre Oregon Zoo is located in Portland, a city and surrounding metropolitan area of more than 1.5 million people”

“No visit to the Rose City, Portland, would be complete without a trip to Washington Park and the Rose Gardens. The park boasts over 10,000 rose bushes, around 650 varieties. The roses bloom usually April through October, with peak times in June. Lovely paths wind all through the roses, and the view from their over Portland to Mt. Hood on clear days is truly spectacular.”

“Amazing hilltop park that's actually an extinct volcano! Beautiful woods with amazing views of downtown Portland, Mt. Hood, and surrounding areas. Catch the adult soap box derby once a year.”

“Enormous and beautiful local park with lots of beautiful spots to picnic and play. ”