Explore the Portland Japanese Garden:
Nestled in the heart of Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Often considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, this peaceful oasis spans over 12 acres and is divided into several distinct garden styles, including a Formal Garden, a Tea Garden, and a Sand and Stone Garden.
The garden’s natural beauty and calm atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature. With meandering paths, stunning views of the city, and traditional Japanese architecture, the Portland Japanese Garden provides a tranquil environment to relax, reflect, and enjoy the changing seasons.
Whether you’re wandering through the meticulously landscaped spaces or participating in one of the garden’s seasonal tea ceremonies, this is a place where you can slow down and appreciate the finer details of nature. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for a unique Japanese-inspired souvenir or tea set.
Biking the Willamette River Waterfront Trail:
Portland is a bike-friendly city, and the Willamette River Waterfront Trail offers one of the best ways to explore its scenic beauty. The trail runs along the Willamette River, stretching for several miles and connecting many of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Rent a bike or take a leisurely ride on your own and follow the winding path through lush parks, waterfront views, and under iconic bridges like the Steel Bridge and the Hawthorne Bridge. Along the way, you’ll pass popular spots such as Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where you can stop for a picnic or simply enjoy the vibrant urban atmosphere. The path also leads to Tilikum Crossing, a car-free bridge that adds to the charm of Portland’s sustainable city planning.
Biking along the river is a great way to see both the natural beauty of the area and Portland’s modern architecture. Plus, if you’re in the mood for a post-ride treat, there are plenty of cafes and food trucks to choose from along the trail.
Indulge in Portland’s Food Truck Scene:
Portland is a food lover’s paradise, and no visit to the city would be complete without diving into its world-famous food truck scene. With over 600 food trucks scattered throughout the city, you’ll find a culinary landscape that spans across the globe—from gourmet tacos and Korean BBQ to vegan donuts and artisanal coffee.
The Voodoo Doughnut truck is an iconic Portland experience, famous for its quirky flavors like the Bacon Maple Bar and the Portland Cream. For savory bites, head to Cartopia, a popular food truck pod that features a variety of trucks offering everything from fried chicken to wood-fired pizza.
Portland’s food trucks are often gathered in “pods”—informal collections of trucks that form mini outdoor food courts. Some of the best-known pods include The Alder Street Food Cart Pod, The 5th Avenue Food Cart Pod, and The Mississippi Food Truck Pod. Each one offers a wide variety of delicious options that allow you to sample multiple dishes from around the world without ever leaving the city.
The food truck scene is also deeply tied to Portland’s emphasis on sustainability and local ingredients, so you can enjoy your meals with the satisfaction of knowing they’re crafted with care for the environment.
