Portland, the largest city in Oregon, flows with a colorful flavor all its own. According to the Lonely Planet, Portland is "a haven for activists, cyclists, grungsters, vegetarians, outdoor nuts and dog lovers." By day, many take to the trails of Forest Park, the largest American park within city limits. After the sun goes down, a new vibe takes over the city. While the light is too dim for roaming the wooded trails, outdoor enthusiast can still enjoy many evening activities throughout the city.
Catch Portland's Weird Side
After one night time visit to downtown Portland, it is easy to see where their unofficial motto comes from; locals proudly work to "Keep Portland Weird" by offering eclectic activities not seen anywhere else. Visit the Kennedy School, an elementary school that has been revamped into a hip restaurant, complete with a garden courtyard and movie theater. Trade in your hiking boots for a pair of dancing shoes and catch some hot beats at stylish venues like Crush, Doug Fir or Laurelthirst Pub.
On the Quieter End
If live bands and packed raves are too noisy for your taste, sample some of Portland's more peaceful after dark activities. View hundreds of different plant species that line Hoyt Arboretum's 12 miles of trails. According to the Lonely Planet, the visitor's center closes early, but the park stays open until 10 p.m. For the ultimate serenity, spend the early evening strolling past the cherry trees and koi ponds at the Japanese Garden.
Walking Tours
See Portland from a new perspective--take a tour of the Shanghai Tunnels. On select evenings the Cascade Geographical Society will lead you through the same underground tunnels where able-bodied men were kidnapped to become slaves on ships that were Shanghai-bound.
The industrial neighborhood turned swanky shopping neighborhood of the Pearl District is a lighter alternative to explore. Mixed in with eclectic restaurants and specialty shops are the district's art galleries, many of which stay open late on the first Thursday of the month.
Transportation
Downtown Portland is laid out well for easy walking between venues, with each block offering its own collection of restaurants, boutiques and galleries. A number of shops will rent bicycles, allowing you to quickly navigate through the city. For free public transportation be on the lookout for the Fareless Square, where riders can ride the MAX light rail, bus and streetcars at no charge.
As an eco-friendly alternative, travel downtown Portland in a Pedicab. Sit back and take in the city lights as the driver bicycles you to your destination in a way that is both fun and charming.
Considerations
Healthy meals are easy to find throughout the city--from organic groceries at downtown Whole Foods Market to vegan cuisine at the Blossoming Lotus. Portland has the potential for rain every month, though it tends to be drier in the summers. It's always a good idea to pack extra layers to compensate for the cooler temperatures. With its milder climate, Portland hosts a large vagrant population that travelers should be mindful of when touring the city after dark.
References
- "Lonely Planet: Washington, Oregon & the Pacific Northwest"; Sandra Bao; 2008
- City-Data.com: Portland, Oregon
- Cascade Geographic Society: Home Page
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