Portland, Oregon has a unique personality that really shines in the autumn. As the leaves change colors the surrounding environment becomes full of lively activities and gorgeous sights. Whether you're a beer connoisseur, outdoor enthusiast or urban explorer, there's always something to enjoy in Portland. Autumn is one of the best times of year to visit The City of Roses, so grab your cheap tickets today!
If you're in the city for an extended weekend, here's how to get the most out of your stay:
Day one: Rent a bike and scope out the city
According to Time Magazine, one of the best ways to see the local sights is to take a spin on a bike. There are a number of places that rent bicycles by the day or even offer guided tours. If you've never been here before, you can get a quick look at each of the neighborhoods and make plans for further explorations. When you need a break, stop by one of the many pubs where you can sip on a local brew. You may even want to head down to Southeast Portland, home to Distillery Row for a classic gin and tonic.
After a long day of riding around town, you can relax at your hotel and prepare for another day of fun.
Day two: Enjoy the scenery
Portland is a city dedicated to preserving the integrity of its green spaces. In the autumn, these areas are full of bright reds, yellows and oranges, so put on your walking shoes and bring a camera. You probably won't be able to visit every park and garden in Portland in just one day, but each offers its own unique foliage and landscaping.
"Learn how to craft a lantern in Lan Su Chinese garden."
For instance, there's Washington Park with it's amazing rose garden, arboretum and forestry museum. Inside the park is the Portland Japanese Garden, which features a strolling pond, a tea garden and a relaxing garden of sand and stone. Throughout the season there will be various events such as a moonviewing party, bamboo splitting demonstrations and special hours for photographers.
In the old part of downtown, you'll find a vibrant Chinatown with delicious food and beautiful architecture. You can also escape from the sounds of city life in the Lan Su Chinese garden, a 40,000 square foot full of orchids and winding paths. Here you can enjoy a tea tasting ceremony, brush painting demonstrations and lantern crafting.
When you need a bite to eat, you don't even have to leave Portland's lively streets. You'll find many tasty dishes being served up by gourmet food trucks.
Day three: Take in some culture
Culture and entertainment blend perfectly together in this city that takes joy in supporting the local arts community. Lovers of literature need to visit Powell's City of Books. According to U.S. News and World Report, the store houses over 2 million used and new books - just be sure to grab one of the free maps on your way in, or you might get lost among the stacks!
Once you've thumbed your way through a few paperbacks, head over to the Portland Art Museum, which is home to over 5,000 Native American works. You'll also find contemporary prints, photographs and sculptures. Then, rest your legs at one of the local movie brewpubs where you can enjoy a recent film while drinking house-brewed beer. It's a cheap date and a unique way to spend your last night in Portland.