(Top Photo) Allow Me, also known as Umbrella Man, is a 1983 bronze sculpture by John Seward Johnson II located in Pioneer Square, Portland’s living room. (PHOTO: Justin Katigbak)
(Bottom Photo) What is now known as the Pearl District was once a wetland and lake fed by streams that flowed down from the nearby hills in southwest Portland. These wooded hillsides provided a natural filter for the streams, cleansing the water as it made its way to the Willamette River. The springs from Tanner Creek flowed into the shallow basin of Couch Lake, now the area surrounding Tanner Springs Park. (PHOTO: Andrea Johnson Photography)
Special thanks to Travel Portland and Travel Oregon for use of select photos throughout this guide. Other credits are listed with photos.
Creative Direction and Editorial Content - The Horswell Collection™ Richard’s Insider Guide to the City of Roses has a strict policy to not accept “advertorial” content and selections within this guide are curated by The Horswell Collection™ with input from its Advisory Council.
Distances to nine sister-cities and other geographical destinations are listed on this whimsical signpost located in Portland’s Living Room, Pioneer Square.
The Downtown Portland skyline beyond Oaks Bottom, a 141 acre floodplain wetland located along the East bank of the Willamette River. It is a popular destination for hiking and bird watching.
Portland’s mixologists create signature cocktails at a number of destinations. Visit page 9 to learn more.
254
Welcome to Oregon
1,943
1859 241 98 11,239
8 362
4,237,256
On behalf of The Horswell Collection™ and its Advisory Council, welcome to both the State of Oregon and the Metropolitan Portland area. The City of Roses and this beautiful state with diversity in landscaping and people is not just a great place to live, but also a destination for millions of visitors to enjoy on an annual basis.
If you are a visitor, already live in the area, or are considering a move, we are here as a service to helping maximize your experience. As a native Portlander and market leader in real estate, I appreciate every opportunity to earn and retain your trust in real estate. In our city, remember not just to live, but to live well.
of Crater Lake (ft) (Deepest in U.S.)
altitutde (ft) (Mt. Hood)
Number of Presidential Electors
Performing Arts
internationally renowned
Enjoy the diversity of Portland’s performing arts community.
Artists Repertory Theatre
503-241-1278
www.artistsrep.org
Challenging artists and audiences with plays of depth and vibrancy in an intimate environment.
BodyVox
503-229-0627
Breathtaking productions rich in imagery, athleticism and humor.
Broadway Rose Theatre Company
503-620-5262
Musicals. Illuminating lives on both sides of the footlights.
Chamber Music NW
503-223-3202
www.bodyvox.com
www.broadwayrose.org
www.cmnw.org
In its 53rd season, CMNW shares the richness of chamber music with Portland audiences.
Lakewood Center for the Arts
503-635-3901
Inspiring and nurturing a love for the theatre arts.
Oregon Ballet Theatre
Oregon’s premier ballet company.
Oregon Children’s Theatre
503-222-5538
503-228-9571
Creating extraordinary theatre for young audiences.
Oregon Symphony
503-228-1353
www.lakewood-center.org
www.obt.org
www.octc.org
www.orsymphony.org
Established more than 100 years ago, the symphony serves more than 225,000 people annually.
Portland Center Stage....................................
PCS inspires the community by bringing stories to life in unexpected ways.
Portland Baroque Orchestra
503-222-6000
Producing fresh and historically informed interpretations of music composed before 1840.
Portland Gay Men’s Chorus 503-226-2588
www.pcs.org
www.pbo.org
www.pdxgmc.org
Aspiring to expand, redefine and perfect the choral art through eclectic performances.
Portland Opera 503-241-1802
www.portlandopera.org
Creating productions of high artistic quality that celebrate the beauty and breadth of opera.
Portland Piano International 503-228-1388
Dedicated to presenting excellence in piano performance.
Portland Symphonic Choir 503-223-1217
Singing the choral masterworks with excellence and passion.
White Bird | A World of Dance 503-245-1600
Presenting established and emerging companies and choreographers.
www.portlandpiano.org
www.pschoir.org
www.whitebird.org
Oregon Symphony
Brahms & Bruch: Romantic Reimaginings SAT, FEB 8, 2025, 7:30 PM SUN, FEB 9, 2025, 2:00 PM MON, FEB 10, 2025, 7:30 PM Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Program:
Brahms: Variations on a Theme of Joseph Haydn Bruch: Scottish Fantasy
Nielsen: Symphony No. 2, “The Four Temperaments” Artists
Christian Kluxen, Conductor Sarah Kwak, Violin
Inspired by a simple chorale attributed to Haydn, Brahms breaks the bounds of his musical imagination with variations that span an ocean of undulating moods. Plus, Oregon Symphony Concertmaster Sarah Kwak captures the high spirits of Highland fiddling in Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy, and music meets psychology in Nielsen’s Second Symphony, the Danish composer’s exploration of human emotions and personalities.
The multi-Grammy Award-nominated Oregon Symphony, led by Music Director David Danzmayr, serves more than 250,000 people annually through live concerts, and education and community engagement programs. The Oregon Symphony is the oldest orchestra in the Western United States. www.orsymphony.org
Portland’s
band, Pink Martini. Photo: Chris Hornbecker Inset Photo | Keller Auditorium: Jim Fullan
Sarah Kwak
Visual Arts & Galleries
“A Fountain of Creativity: Oregon’s 20th Century Artists and the Legacy of Arlene Schnitzer,” curated by Oregon Historical Society Curator, Megan Lallier Barron, will feature works from lauded Pacific Northwest artists—some never shown publicly—that our founder’s mother, Arlene Schnitzer, elevated and celebrated through her work at Portland’s first contemporary art gallery, the Fountain Gallery. The Schnitzer Collection is an exhibition space for FREE and open to the public 3033 NW Yeon Avenue, Portland, OR 97210
Credit - The Schnitzer Collection
The story of acceptance for Northwest art and artists in Portland began with the opening of the now-closed Fountain Gallery in 1961 by businesswoman, philanthropist and art collector - the late Arlene Schnitzer. Portland’s gallery scene has since evolved into a hub coveted by major collectors from around the world.
Laura Russo Gallery NW / Nob Hill www.laurarusso.com
Murdoch Collections NW www.murdochcollections.com
PDX Contemporary Art
Rental Sales Gallery
Waterstone Gallery
FUN FACT
DT / Pearl www.pdxcontemporaryart.com
DT / SW
www.portlandartmuseum.com/rsg
DT / Pearl www.waterstonegallery.com
Oregon has no “Use Tax,” meaning that collectors like Elaine Wynn regularly park expensive artworks like the $142 million Francis Bacon triptych “Three Studies of Lucian Freud” for public viewing in museums throughout the state before they reach their final destination.
Owned and operated by Oregon artists
Contemporary emphasis on glass
Contemporary art
Northwest and internationally-established artists
Contemporary artists with strong and independent voices
Showcase of Northwest contemporary and modern art
An experience in curated themes and hands-on library
Nick Blosser, James Lavadour, Masao Yamamoto
Northwest artists
Artist owned
Sidebar
The Northwest School was an American art movement established in Skagit County in Washington in the 1930’s/40’s. The movement’s early participants, and its defining artists, have become known as “the big four”: Guy Anderson, Kenneth Callahan, Morris Graves and Mark Tobey.
Beer, Wine, & Spirits
WINE
With 1,370* vineyards on 39,531* acres and 995* wineries, Oregon’s grapes that were first planted 50 years ago are now recognized for what has become one of the world’s elite winemaking regions. With 19 designated wine growing areas in four diverse regions, Oregon’s wineries produce wine from dozens of grape varieties.
The Oregon Wine Board - www.oregonwine.org - is a semi-independent Oregon state agency that manages marketing, research and education initiatives that support and advance the Oregon wine and wine grape industry. It is the central resource for learning about Oregon wines.
The Sip 47 wine route winds its way from McMinnville through Forest Grove. Explore the “trip along the road less traveled,” Route 47.
SPIRITS
Portland and other Oregon cities are gaining prominence for craft spirits. There are numerous tasting rooms to explore in the city, most notably along Distillery Row in Southeast Portland.
www.distilleryrowpdx.com
Numbering more than 77 around the state, the Oregon Distillery Trail website provides links to all Oregon Distillers Guild members in addition to a calendar of events. www.oregondistillerytrail.com
Freeland Spirits is Oregon’s first woman-owned distillery. Specializing in gin and whiskey, their Northwest Portland tasting room also offers a full cocktail menu, plus bar snacks, salads and pizzas.
Credit - Ashley Anderson
BEER
Pure water. Hops in abundance. More craft brewers per capita than any other place on earth.
Oregon is home to craft brewing pioneers such as Widmer Brothers Brewing, McMenamins, Full Sail Brewing Co. and Deschutes Brewery. They blazed a trail to this beer-topia, leading to Oregon Craft Beer being the standard against which all other craft beers are measured. Visit the website and learn more: www.oregoncraftbeer.org
The Holiday Brew Fest supports the role of The Square to activate downtown each year with a unique seasonal celebration under the 75-foot Tree.
www.pdxholidaybrewfest.com
The Stoller family established its property in 1943 and the vineyard 50 years later. Over the last 29 years, it has patiently transformed the 400-acre property into the largest contiguous vineyard in Oregon’s Dundee Hills. www.stollerfamilyestate.com
* 2023 Oregon Blue Book
Events
Diverse events happen throughout the year in the City of Roses and beyond. This is a sample seasonal list of activities.
Winter
Holiday Lights Metro Dec Portland’s Christmas Ships, The Grotto, Portland International Raceway, Peacock Lane, ZooLights
Portland Jazz Festival ............... DT...................Feb ..................... Bringing world-class jazz to the Pacific Northwest.
Spring
Cinco de Mayo DT May
Rose Festival Metro May-Jun
Tulip Festival Woodburn Mar-May
Summer
Portland Guadalajara Sister City Association (PGSCA) presents the 37th annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta.
Celebrating over 115 years, the Rose Festival was named the World’s Best Festival in 2007 and 2011.
Over one million tulip bulbs and with 145,000 annual visitors.
Oregon Brewers Festival DT June The Oregon Brewers Festival is the quintessential celebration of craft beer.
Highland Games Gresham July Family-friendly event with music, athletics, dancing and cultural activities.
MusicFest NW DT Aug
Oregon Renaissance Faire ...... Canby ............June ...................
MusicfestNW is a two-day, two-stage festival featuring some of the biggest and best acts in live music.
Hosting a re-creation of a 16th century European village for 13 days of merriment.
Oregon Zoo Concerts SW Jun-Jul-Aug In 1979, the Oregon Zoo became the first in America to host a summer concert series.
Oregon State Fair Salem Aug
Showcasing the best of Oregon, complete with attractions, concerts and competitions.
Waterfront Blues Festival DT Jul The Waterfront Blues Festival has been bringing the best of the blues to the Northwest since 1987.
Fall
Oktoberfest Mt. Angel Sept
One of the longest standing, best-loved folk festivals, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2015.
The Rose Festival CityFair at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
Museums & Attractions
Since 1962, the Oregon Zoo elephant herd has inspired millions of visitors to appreciate and care for wildlife. Now, the zoo has completed its most ambitious project to date: Elephant Lands. This visionary habitat provides a world-class home for the elephant family and an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry - inspiring curiosity through engaging science.
Oregon History Museum
503-222-1741 www.ohs.org
The state’s premier historical arm since 1898.
Oregon Maritime Museum
503-224-7724 www.oregonmaritimemuseum.org
Explore the last operating sternwheel steam tug in the United States.
Oregon Zoo
503-226-1561 www.oregonzoo.org
The wildest place in Oregon. Enjoy 64 acres and the Oregon Zoo Train.
World Forestry Center
503-228-1367
www.worldforestry.org
Educating and informing people about the world’s forests and trees, and environmental sustainability.
Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm
Through January 19, 2025
Portland Art Museum www.portlandartmuseum.org
Comprised of recently rediscovered photographs from Paul McCartney’s personal archive, more than 250 pictures invite visitors to intimately experience The Beatles’ meteoric rise from British sensation to international stardom. At a time when somany camera lenses were turned toward them, McCartney’s perspective from the inside out brings fresh insight into the band, their experiences, the fans, and the Beatlemania phenomenon. Through these photographs, along with video clips and archival material, visitors can witness the dawn of the “British Invasion” that fundamentally transformed rock and roll music and American society.
(Above) the Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta, a 15-block community event on NE Alberta Street between 15th and 30th Avenue from 6 -9 p.m. www.lastthursdayalberta.org
Portland is known for its vibrant nightlife culture.
Old Town Nightlife District www.oldtownchinatown.org
Eclectic mix of the kitsch, the cool, the hip and the hot.
Revolution Hall www.revolutionhall.com
Revolution Hall is a state-of-the-art concert venue in the heart of Southeast Portland.
Rontom’s 503-236-4536 www.rontoms.net
Concert venue - also presents free concerts every Sunday.
Roseland Theatre 503-224-8499 www.roselandpdx.com
One of America’s premier showcase venues.
Nightlife
MIXOLOGY
Visit any local lounge for an ideal cocktail experience with some of Portland’s finest [and quirkiest] bartenders.
Huber’s
Established in 1879, Huber’s is Portland’s oldest restaurant. In addition to specializing in a traditional turkey dinner, it also has the distinction of being the No. 1 purchaser of Kahlua liqueur in the United States. Kahlua is a key ingredient in Huber’s specialty cocktail, the Spanish Coffee. Great for a late night happy hour.
Multnomah Whiskey Library
From the bartender who creates the perfect cocktail or combs the shelves for a rare bottle, to the chef offering a thoughtfully curated menu - it undertakes to honor a collection of spirits through education, shared experience, and classic hospitality.
https://mwlpdx.com/
Teardrop Lounge
Pioneering the cocktail renaissance since 2007, Teardrop Cocktail Lounge offers lovingly made libations in the heart of Portland’s Pearl District. From a profound respect for the classic to the adventure of unique flavor combinations, ours is a perpetual quest for the new frontier of the cocktail.
www.teardroplounge.com
The Driftwood Room at hotel deLuxe
Now known as the hotel deLuxe, the sun parlor off the lobby was transformed into the dark lounge coined The Driftwood Room. An “Elizabeth Taylor” cocktail is a must and a favorite of Richard’s to offer at his events: Champagne in the most elegant glass possible, a dash of Rothman & Winter Crème de violette, garnished with an Amarena Cherry.
Spanish Coffee at Huber’s
foodie
kann opened its doors in 2022 and was quickly recognized by Eater and The New York Times as a “Best New Restaurant”; Esquire named Kann the #1 “Best New Restaurant in America.” Langbaan is now the 2024 Outstanding Restaurant James Beard Award Winner.
The Revolutionists Location Online
kann SE www.kannrestaurant.com
Portland’s Food Revolution started in 1993 with the arrival of several notable chefs who promoted fresh Northwest ingredients to a national audience. A media “fam” tour sponsored by Travel Portland in 1994 put the city on the map by hosting notable food reporters to sample regional cuisine. The honor roll of that original tour included Chefs Philippe Boulot, Mark Gould, Greg Higgins, Chris Israel, Bill King, Marcel Lahsene and David Machado. Richard co-produced the media tour during his internship with Travel Portland.
Known For
Haitian cuisine meets Pacific Northwest bounty.
langbaan .............................................. NW............................ www.langbaanportland.com .................................... “back of the house”Thai / James Beard 2024 Winner
Jake’s Famous Crawfish .................. DT ............................. www.jakesfamouscrawfish.com .............................. A downtown Portland landmark for more than 110 years.
Ringside SW www.ringsidesteakhouse.com
Sayler’s Country Kitchen NE www.saylers.com
Skyline Restaurant NW www.skylineburgers.com
The Old Spaghetti Factory SW www.osf.com
Recognized as the leader in Portland steakhouses since 1944.
75 years of great steak. Take the 72 oz steak challenge.
Serving up burgers and shakes since 1935.
Gabriel Rucker | Le Pigeon & Canard
Photo: David Reamer
Vitaly Paley | Portland Restaurant Pioneer
Gregory Gourdet | Founder/Chef of kann and James Beard Award winning author
Neighborhoods | Fun Info
NEIGHBORHOODS
Portland has an active coalition of neighborhoods managed by the City of Portland Office of Neighborhood Involvement.
To find out information about neighborhoods that are highlighted in the map, visit: www.portlandoregon.gov/oni
DIRECTION
Streets running North-South are typically numbered. Streets running East-West are typically named.
North - West of N. Williams, East of Willamette River and North of NE Killingsworth
Northeast - North of Burnside, East of N. Williams.
Southeast - South of Burnside, East of Willamette River
Southwest - South of Burnside, West of Willamette River
Northwest - North of Burnside, West of Willamette River
Sampling of Famous Portlanders
Art Alexakis, member of Everclear
Jean M. Auel, author, “Clan of the Cave Bear”
Ward Cunningham, inventor of wiki
Matt Groening, creator of “The Simpsons”
William Hurt, Academy Award-winning actor
Peter Jacobsen, PGA professional golfer
Thomas Lauderdale, musician, Pink Martini
Courtney Love, musician and actress
Chuck Palahniuk, author, “Fight Club”
Linus Pauling, Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Damon Stoudamire, former NBA player and coach
Sally Struthers, actress, “All in the Family”
Linus Torvalds, organizer, LINUX operating system kernel
Gus Van Sant, filmmaker
Will Vinton, Claymation animator
Lindsay Wagner, actress, “The Bionic Woman”
Downtown Portland city blocks are 200 x 200 feet, twice as small as other major metropolitan areas. They were originally thought to have created more valuable real estate with street corners.
Walking Score - Find out about the walking score from your home: www.walkscore.com/OR/Portland
Tallest Building - Wells Fargo Center at 546 feet built in 1972
City Area - 145.09 square miles
#10 Best U.S. Cities for Public Transport - WalletHub 2019
#19 Best Places for Business and Careers - Forbes Magazine 2017
About 17 city blocks in Portland equal one mile.
Be sure to pronounce the street Couch like “Cooch,” and the Willamette River “Will-AM-ett.”
Oddities & Finds
Voodoo Doughnuts
LA Times calls this downtown doughnut shop an International Tourist Attraction.
Portland Aerial Tram
Connecting the South Waterfront to the Oregon Health & Sciences University campus, the tram travels 3,300 feet and a vertical distance of 500 feet.
Rocky Butte
There are over 150 routes which vary in difficulty and type for rock climbers at this favorite NE Portland destination.
Last Thursday
Visit the Alberta Arts District for a different interpretation of art and performance/ Enjoy last Thursday each month on Alberta: www.lastthursdayalberta.org
Food Carts
Portland has over 500 that are organized into pods. www.foodcartsportland.com
Darcelle XV Showplace
Portland has the longest running cabaret of female impersonators west of the Mississippi, the late Darcelle XV served as emcee for each show and holds the Guiness Book of World Record crown as the world’s oldest drag queen performer. Drag superstar Poison Waters now leads the ensemble cast in weekend performances. www.darcellexv.com
Shanghai Tunnel Tours
Sailors and others deemed fit to work on the high seas were drugged and shanghai’ed from Portland saloons in the early 1900’s and taken to the seaport through a network of secret tunnels now accessible via tour.
Presidential Home
Saturday Market
The longest continuously operating outdoor market in the United States located under the Burnside Bridge. www.portlandsaturdaymarket.com
Powell’s Books
Founded in 1970, CNN rates it as one of the 10 coolest bookstores in the world. www.powells.com
World Naked Bike Ride
Each June, over 9,000 participants ride in what is believed the largest of its kind of the world. www.pdxwnbr.org
U-Pick Fresh Fruits
Watch for advertisements in Summer and Fall for an opportunity to pick fresh fruits at any number of local farms.
Farm Co-Ops
Organics to You delivers farm-fresh products to homes throughout the city on a weekly rotation schedule.
Newberg is the location of 31st President of the United States Herbert Hoover’s boyhood home.
Farmer’s Markets
There are seven farmer’s markets that operate in the city. www.portlandfarmersmarket.org
Myrtlewood
Other than Oregon, this wood is only found one other place - Israel.
Willamette Meridian Stone
Stark’s Vacuum Museum
Over 300 historical vacuums are showcased in Starks downtown/NE store. www.starks.com
Astoria Column
A “crowning monument” in a series of markers constructed between St. Paul, Minnesota and Astoria.
All land surveys in Oregon and Washington are referenced to this point, which is accessible off NW Skyline Boulevard.
The Portland Metropolitan Urban Growth Boundary is outlined in dark blue.
URBAN GROWTH BOUNDARY
Under Oregon law, each of the state’s cities and metropolitan areas has created an urban growth boundary around its perimeter – a land use planning line to control urban expansion onto farm and forest lands. Metro is responsible for managing the Portland metropolitan area’s urban growth boundary.
Every six years, the Metro Council must review and report on the land supply in the Urban Growth Report. Metro prepares a forecast of population and employment growth for the region for the next 20 years and, if necessary, adjusts the boundary to meet the needs of growth forecast for that 20-year period.
Did you know? Metro is the only regional government authority of its type in the United States. www.oregonmetro.gov
Around Oregon
Oregon’s geographic diversity makes it one of the most interesting states to travel around. From the desert and mountain peaks to lush forests and jagged coastline, there are many ways to explore the state. Some points of interest include:
Columbia Gorge Discovery Center www.gorgediscovery.org
Inspiring appreciation and stewardship of the Columbia River Gorge
Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center www.columbiagorge.org
Bringing to life the human stories and natural history of the gorge.
High Desert Museum www.highdesertmuseum.org
135 forested acres of animals, artful exhibits and meaningful history.
Oregon Coast Aquarium www.aquarium.org
A world-class marine educational attraction.
Oregon Garden www.oregongarden.org
Featuring the only house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in Oregon.
Pendleton Round-Up www.pendletonroundup.com
One of the 10 largest rodeos in the world.
Richardson’s Rock Ranch ................................... www.richardsonrockranch.com
World-famous agate beds and a chance to dig an Oregon thunderegg.
Sea Lion Caves www.sealioncaves.com
Part of the Oregon/Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve.
Wildlife Safari www.wildlifesafari.net
A drive-through animal park on 600 acres.
(Right) The Oregon Coast Aquarium’s Passages of the Deep exhibit allows the visitor to literally immerse themselves in the ocean realm that exists right off the Oregon coast
Oregon’s Seven Wonders
Visit the seven wonders of Oregon www.traveloregon.com/7wonders
1) Mt. Hood - Home to a total of six ski areas.
2) The Oregon Coast - All of Oregon’s coastline is public.
3) The Columbia River Gorge - A national scenic area.
4) Painted Hills - Millions of years of history revealed.
5) Smith Rock - A climbers paradise - thousands of routes.
6) The Wallowas - Nicknamed the Alps of Oregon.
7) Crater Lake - Take the 33-mile loop on Rim Drive.
HINT
www.oregonguidebook.com
the late Gerry Frank was a proud fourth-generation native Oregonian with deep roots in the retail, restaurant, political, civic and business activities of his state. This nonagenarian and his family have either witnessed or long been a part of Oregon’s amazing history.
$16.95 web | $19.95 retail
Outdoors | Fall
Fall is considered by many to be a favorite season in Portland. The sun shines into September and the changing colors of the leaves has unique character in each neighborhood. Here are some popular activities to appreciate.
Art in the Pearl
Art In The Pearl®, Portland Oregon’s annual Fine Arts & Crafts Festival, occurs every year on Labor Day weekend. The 28th annual festival will take place over Labor Day weekend in the Pearl District’s North Park Blocks. The Festival is free and requires no tickets for entry. Art In The Pearl has been named one of the top 10 Arts and Crafts Festivals in the country (source: Art Fair Source Book). The festival fills the Northwest Portland Park blocks with art, theater, music and hands-on activities for people of all ages.
Beavers vs. Ducks Civil War Football Game (September 7, 2024)
Check college football schedules to view Oregon’s favorite game, the annual Civil War between Oregon State University and the University of Oregon Ducks.
Fruit Loop Hood River
The Hood River County Fruit Loop is just an hour away from Portland. Located in the national scenic area, the Columbia River Gorge, and the nation’s largest pear-growing region, this is one of the few places that offers the complete experience of growing, producing and enjoying fruit and wine. After touring fruit stands, vineyards, alpacas and lavender farms, spend some time at one of the local hotels and take part of the many varieties of wine and micro beers Hood River County has to offer.
Japanese Garden Moon Festival Moonviewing, or O-Tsukimi, is a Japanese festival that takes place when the moon is full in autumn. At this romantic garden event, lantern-lit paths, performances of Chado, and samples of tea and sake await visitors while the sounds of the shakuhachi, or Japanese bamboo flute and the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed musical instrument, drift through the Garden.
Pumpkin Patch
For over 50 years, The Pumpkin Patch is a lot more than pumpkins! June through October, visit this family farm, the fresh produce market, the Patio Cafe, the Pumpkin Cottage Gift Shop and the fall corn maze on beautiful Sauvie Island. Certified sustainable by The Food Alliance.
Springwater Corridor
The Springwater Corridor is the major southeast segment of the 40-Mile Loop which was inspired by the 1903 Olmsted plan of a parkway and boulevard loop to connect park sites.
Wildwood Trail
Wildwood Trail is a six mile loop located near Portland in Forest Park that offers the chance to see wildlife and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and trail running and is accessible year-round.
HINT
Limousine tours of Oregon’s wine country on Thanksgiving weekend are popular. JMI Limousine offers a tour of some of the region’s finest wineries - Archery Summit, Domaine Drouhin, Soter Vineyards, and Domaine Serene. Allow a minimum of six hours to tour three to four wineries. More information is available at: www.portlandlimos.com/wine-tours
(Above) The Pendleton Round-Up, which occurs each September, is one of the 10 largest rodeos in the world. | Photo: Jon Laptad
Portland’s Japanese Garden
Outdoors | Winter
During the Winter Season, attention of residents and numerous visitors to Portland focuses around the activities on Mt. Hood. The iconic Timberline Lodge, built in the late 1930’s as a Work Progress Administration (WPA) project during the Great Depression, was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1937. It also served as the exterior of the Overlook Hotel in the Stanley Kubrick movie, “The Shining.”
Ski Area Location Online
Mt. Bachelor ..................................................... Bend ........................................................................ www.mtbachelor.com
One of the largest ski areas in the Pacific Northwest, with 3,683 acres and a 3,365 foot verticle drop.
Mt. Hood Meadows Mt. Hood www.skihood.com
Mt. Hood’s largest ski area that offers challenges for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Mt. Hood Ski Bowl
Mt. Hood / Government Camp www.skibowl.com
Billed as America’s largest night skiing area, Ski Bowl also offers numerous Summer activities.
Timberline
Mt. Hood / Timberline www.timberlinelodge.com With nearly a 3,000 verticle drop, Timberline operates year-round with the Palmer Snowfield.
HINT You can find out more about skiing in Oregon at www.skioregon.org
HINT
Palmer Glacier on Mt. Hood is named for Oregon Pioneer Joel Palmer. Silcox Hut sits at 7000 feet elevation and is considered Oregon’s highest hotel room.
Additional information can be found at www.timberlinelodge.com
(Above) Timberline Lodge at New Year’s Eve. (Right) Snowboarding on Mount Hood.
Outdoors | Spring
Spring brings a canopy of blooms to the City of Roses. From Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the array of activities is impressive.
Bonneville Lock and Dam
The Lan Su Chinese Garden encompasses an entire city block. The 80,000 square foot garden surrounds the 8,000 square foot Lake Zither.
https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/bonneville/ Bonneville Lock and Dam is located 145 river miles from the mouth of the Columbia River and about 40 miles east of Portland, near Cascade Locks, and North Bonneville, Wash. Visitors enjoy diverse activities including the fish hatchery, Bradford Island Visitors Center and fish ladders, two powerhouses, fishing and picnic areas. Spring is the ideal time to visit with rhododendrons in full bloom at the entrance to the facility.
Kell’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
The largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration on the West Coast.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
This Chinese garden is the most authentic of its kind outside of Shuzou, China.
www.kellsportland.com
www.lansugarden.org
Pearl District................................................................................................................................................................... www.explorethepearl.com
Explore the Pearl District’s delightful boutiques, restaurants and open spaces.
Portland Spirit www.portlandspirit.com
Enjoy a Willamette River cruise on a 150-foot yacht with three public decks, two of which are enclosed.
Vera Katz Eastside Esplanade www.portlandoregon.gov/parks
Enjoy the cherry blossoms of Tom McCall Waterfront Park from across the river along a 1.5 mile path.
Willamette Jet Boats www.willamettejet.com Glide past spectacular river-front homes on your way to the magnificent Willamette Falls, stopping just yards from the cascading water.
HINT
Public tours will be offered intermittently, as staffing allows, at Bradford Island Visitor Center and at Washington Shore Visitor Complex. For the most up to date information on tour offerings and times, please visit their website or call our Visitor Centers at (541) 374-8820.
Outdoors | Summer
(Ab0ve) A view of the Columbia Gorge and Vista House on the Columbia River Scenic Hightway from the Portland Women’s Forum Memorial. (Right) Oregon Caves National Monument located in Cave Junction is one of the few marble caves in the world. www.nps.gov/orca
Portland’s Summer season offers exceptional opportunities to explore both the city and the state.
Destination
Description
Online
Bridge Pedal Bike route on Portland’s many bridges blog.bridgepedal.com
Columbia River Scenic Highway ......... Waterfalls, hiking and magnificent vistas ........... www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/crgnsa
Crater Lake Explore the deepest lake in the United States www.nps.gov/crla Deschutes White Water Rafting Great rafting for the entire family www.riverdrifters.net/deschutes
Hellgate Jetboat Excursions Jet down the wild and scenic Rogue River www.hellgate.com
Hood to Coast .......................................... 197 miles, 1,050 teams of 12 runners each .......................... www.hoodtocoast.com
Independence Day / July 4 Fireworks and the Waterfront Blues Festival www.waterfrontbluesfest.com
Wallowa Mountains The Alps of Oregon www.traveloregon.com/cities-regions/the-wallowas
HINT When not exploring over 319 miles of bike paths in the Portland area, visit one of two casual dining restaurants situated directly on the water of the Columbia River. The Deck: www.thedeckpdx.com Island Cafe: www.islandcafepdx.com
Average Highs/Lows (c)
Parks
The Frank Beach Memorial Fountain (above) in Portland’s International Rose Test Garden was dedicated in 1975 and designed and built by Portland Artist Lee Kelly. It was a gift from the Beach family in honor of Frank Beach who was said to have christened Portland the “City of Roses” and first proposed the idea for the annual Rose Festival.
A sampling of the most popular parks that residents and visitors enjoy.
Forest Park NW www.forestparkconservancy.org
Over 5,100 acres and 70 miles of recreational trails minutes from the heart of downtown.
Hoyt Arboretum
DT/SW www.hoytarboretum.org
A 187 acre refuge with 12 miles of hiking trails and 1,400 species of trees.
Laurelhurst Park SE www.portlandoregon.gov/parks
A 26 acre park that includes a lake and sporting facilities.
Mt. Tabor SE www.oakspark.com Portland is one of four cities in the United States to have an extinct volcano within its boundaries.
Peninsula Park.................................................. N ................................................. www.portlandoregon.gov/parks
A community center with pool and manicured rose gardens.
Tom McCall Waterfront Park DT www.portlandoregon.gov/parks The 30 acre park stretches along the Willamette River in front of downtown.
Tryon Creek State Natural Area SW www.tryonfriends.org Oregon’s only state park located within a major metropolitan area.
Washington Park
DT/SW www.washingtonparkpdx.org 159.7 acres including Oregon Zoo, Japanese Garden and Rose Garden.
Willamette Park SW www.portlandoregon.gov/parks On the Willamette River, this park features a boat dock and canoe launch.
Simon and Helen Director Park sits atop 700 covered parking spaces and includes the light display titled “Mercurial Skydance.” The artwork was provided by the City of Portland’s Percent for Art Program.
Council Crest is the highest point closest to downtown Portland at 1071 feet above sea level in the Tualatin Mountains (West Hills). Streetcar service began in 1906 and an amusement park occupied the site from 1907 until 1929. It is now a park and popular viewpoint. Richard’s Windermere Realty Trust Portland Heights Office is located on SW Vista Avenue, and is the “highest” real estate office in elevation in Portland.
Shopping
Portland is known for its shopping appeal by visitors from around the world. With zero sales tax, both major brands and locally-crafted items are available with a diversity of retail options.
DESIGNER SPECTACLE
Portland’s downtown retail core offers numerous local specialty and internationally-recognized brands. Nordstrom contains Chanel, Dolce & Gabana, and Gucci Boutiques while Louis Vuitton recently expanded its Pioneer Place store. Mario’s, which also operates a boutique in Seattle, offers a couture shopping experience in its Fox Tower location.
(Inset) Pioneer Square and shoppers during December’s exciting holiday season. Mall
Bridgeport Village SW / Tigard www.bridgeport-village.com
Stores include
Saks Off Fifth, Mario’s 3.10
Cascade Station NE / Airport www.shopcascadestation.com Ikea, Best Buy, HomeGoods
Clackamas Town Center SE / Clackamas www.clackamastowncenter.com
Macy’s (Good for Walking)
Columbia River Outlet Mall E / Troutdale www.premiumoutlets.com/columbiagorge Coach, Adidas, Pendleton
Portland Thunder Arena Football www.portlandthunder.com
503-773-4235 | Portland OR | MODA Center
Portland Timbers MLS Soccer www.timbers.com
503-553-5555 | Portland OR | Providence Park
Portland Trail Blazers NBA Basketball www.nba.com/blazers
503-797-9619 | Portland OR | MODA Center
Portland Winterhawks WHL Ice Hockey ................. www.winterhawks.com
503-236-4295 | Portland OR | Rose Quarter
Rose City Rollers Roller Derby www.rosecityrollers.com Portland OR | Multiple Locations
University of Oregon Ducks Football www.goducks.com 1-800-WEBFOOT | Eugene OR | Autzen Stadium
HINT For a complete guide to sports throughout the State of Oregon, visit the Oregon Sports Authority, the state’s sports economic development arm for nearly two decades. https://www.sportoregon.org/calendar
Bicycling
Portland is known as a bicycle-friendly city. In addition to numerous streets that have bike lanes, there are also many trails to explore. The City of Portland offers great resources online including an interactive map as well as suggested best rides around the city ranging from 11 to 51 miles. www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/34772
Golf
There are many notable courses around Oregon including Pumpkin Ridge that is a popular tournament course and Bandon Dunes (pictured above) which is home to five of the best golf courses in America according to Golf Digest. A list of Portland golf courses is available at: www.oregongolf.com/courses/portland/
True links courses are rare. To have five of the best in the world at one resort is a privilege. Everything at Bandon Dunes on the Oregon Coast has been created with the golf experience in mind. Golf Magazine notes that Bandon Dunes is one of the 50 best golf courses built in the past 50 years. Off the links, six restaurants and lounges provide the fuel and a variety of accommodations -- from single rooms to spacious four-bedroom cottages -- offer a peaceful escape where guests can relax, rest and revive.
Golf Magazine Top 100 Public Courses in U.S. Pacific Dunes – No. 19; Bandon Dunes – No. 44 Old Macdonald – No. 66;
Trails – No. 38 Sheep Ranch – No. 80
Swimming
Portland and its surrounding areas include a number of outdoor and indoor aquatic facilities. Popular facilities include North Clackamas Aquatic Park and the Sellwood Pool that host thousands of guests each summer. VillaSport in Beaverton is a new athletic facility with several swimming pools. www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/38284
Tennis
In addition to Portland Tennis Center and St. Johns Racquet Center operated by the City of Portland, METRO offers indoor tennis at the Glendoveer Tennis Center. Stafford Hills Tennis Club is a newer facility accepting memberships. For public tennis courts, Portland Parks offers a complete list. www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/52167
Private Club Facilities
The Horswell Collection™ is a concierge referral to Private Client resources for detailed information about membership at the region’s private athletic, golf and social clubs.
(Above)
Bandon
Important Information
Oregon’s
Governments | Registration Information
State of Oregon
www.oregon.gov
Business Registration www.filinginoregon.com
Department of Motor Vehicles / Registration ....................................
503-299-9999 .............................
www.oregon.gov/ODOT/DMV/ Jobs www.worksourceoregon.org
Oregon Liquor Control Commission - Server’s Permit 503-872-5000 www.oregon.gov/olcc/
Oregon State Health Department - Food Handler’s Permit Info www.public.health.oregon.gov/
Oregon State Marine Board - Boating License ........................................................................................................ www.takemefishing.org
Metro - The Regional Government www.oregonmetro.gov
Multnomah County www.multco.us
Washington County www.co.washington.or.us
Clackamas County www.clackamas.us
Yamhill County ....................................................................................................................................................................... www.co.yamhill.or.us
City of Portland www.portlandoregon.gov
Parks & Recreation
503-823-7529 www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/ Police
503-823-3333 Water
Lewis & Clark College
www.portlandoregon.gov/water/
Arrivals
AIR
The Port of Portland operates Portland International Airport (PDX), Hillsboro Airport (HIO), and Troutdale Airport (TTD). In addition to a number of commercial airlines, private FBOs Atlantic, Global and Hillsboro serve charter and business jet needs. PDX had the distinction of receiving Travel & Leisure’s Survey as America’s Best Airport in 2021.
TRAIN
Opened in 1896 and rebuilt in 1996, Portland’s Union Station is a hub for AMTRAK. The first Metropolitan Lounge on the West Coast for firstclass sleeping car passengers is located in the terminal. Routes include Cascades, Empire Builder and Coast Starlight. HINT: Buy a coach ticket to Seattle, but sit and enjoy views and convivial conversation at a table in the train’s dining car. Laptop plug-ins available.
BUS
The Greyhound bus station was located directly across from Union Station and sat on the land formerly occupied by The Hoyt Hotel, an iconic homage to the 1890’s that included Gracie Hansen’s Roaring 20’s Nightclub and the original Hooterville Cannonball train engine used in the 1960’s television show Petticoat Junction. Bus service is now located within Union Station.
Utilities | Communuications & Internet Services
[There are a number of providers throughout the Metropolitan Area] XFinity
“She Flies With Her Own Wings” Adopted by the 1987 Legislature as the Oregon state motto.
‘Oregon is an inspiration. Whether you come to it, or are born to it, you become entranced by our state’s beauty, the opportunity she affords, and the independent spirit of her citizens.’
