A mecca for culture, green space, and artisans of all kinds, the city of Portland is easy to get to know. Here are some great insider tips to help introduce you.
1. Portland may very well be the beer capitol of the world.
Beer has always been a local favorite here, and now it has reached a new level of sophistication. You’ll find intriguing craft beers on nearly every corner. Some of our favorites are Ecliptic Brewing, Lompoc Brewing, Hopworks Urban Brewery, and Cascade Brewing & Barrel House.
2. The best way to discover the craft beer scene is with a tour.
Portland’s burgeoning craft beer movement is so exciting even locals appreciate guidance. Fortunately, some great local craft brew tour companies are ready to show you around. Brewvana offers several fun themed tours like the Mississippin’ Walking and Belgian Style Beer. Portland BrewBus offers educational guided bus tours with souvenir diplomas.
3. The next craft movement is happening on Portland’s Distillery Row.
“The Row” features eight distilleries under one roof so you can easily sample an amazing lineup of handcrafted spirits, brandies, and liqueurs on a weekend afternoon. Don’t miss New Deal Distillery’s Hot Monkey Vodka and new Ginger Liqueur.
4. Meet you at McMenamins
. It’s hard to believe that McMenamins started as a simple bar in 1983. Today McMenamins handcrafts its own beer, wine, cider, spirits, and coffee. Locals love its mix of lively brewpubs, concert venues, and movie theaters where you can enjoy a pint while you watch a movie, sporting event, or comedy act.
5. Stop and smell the rhododendrons.
Thousands of rhododendrons, azaleas, and companion plants provide a magnificent array of color each spring and early summer at the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. Looking for something special to do on Mother’s Day? Look no further!
6. Put on your readers and discover Powell’s City of Books.
This independent bookstore covers an entire city block with more than one million new, used, and out-ofprint books, DVDs, and gifts. If you have somewhere else to be, set the alarm on your phone, because you will definitely lose track of time.
7. Asian elephants and Sumatran orangutans are locals too.
Located in Washington Park, the Oregon Zoo is known worldwide for its elephant breeding program and conservation efforts. In fact, it is home to dozens of endangered species. Beyond beautiful beasts, the zoo has a great special events calendar that includes summer concerts.
8. Saketini Saturdays at Saké One are an amazing deal.
If you know nothing about Saké, Saké One is a great place to start. The tours are informative; the tasting flights are fun; and on Saketini Saturday, held once a month, you can learn how to mix Saké cocktails.