My Ultimate 4-Day Portland, Oregon Travel Guide

Exploring my own backyard through domestic travel is something I believe is incredibly important. The world is vast and full of wonders, but there’s so much to discover close to home as well. That’s why visiting all 50 states was the very first travel goal I set out to achieve – and successfully checked off my list.

When a generous invitation gave me and my family the opportunity to visit a new-to-us city in a state we haven’t spent much time in, we jumped at the chance for a few reasons. One big one: Portland, Oregon, and the surrounding areas are known for their natural beauty, and my camera longed to photograph it. 

Portland was even more beautiful than I expected, but not just because of the stunning nature that surrounds you. Known for its diverse food culture, beautiful landscapes, and local artisan shops, Portland’s best asset? Portlanders. The amazing and interesting people who call Portland home took such good care of us during our trip and really helped make this a trip to remember.

The juxtaposition of delicious food, a millennial mindset, stunning nature, and amazing shoppes and museums? Yeah, I’m sold.

Ready to explore all of the sights, bites & more with me as I tour around Portland, Oregon? Here is my Ultimate 4-day Portland, Oregon Travel Guide. 

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Portions of this trip were generously hosted, but as always, all opinions are my own.

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Fun Trip Facts

• Where To Now: Portland, Oregon
• Closest Airport: Portland International Airport (PDX)
• When Did I Visit: May & June 2024
• Nearby “Major” Cities: Seattle is around 3 hours away by car.
• What Transportation Did I Use: We rented a car because of our planned day trip and my camera gear. However, I highly recommend using public transportation or even walking, as Portland is a very green and walkable city. Honestly, it’s one of the best public transportation systems I’ve experienced in America.

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Where to Stay

We have been shifting more to locally owned boutique hotels when we know we’re going to be doing a lot of eating out. And I love a good hotel that has a theme with decor on point. 

Everything about Woodlark Hotel felt like true urban elegance, from the room decor and the beautiful emerald hues to the onsite dining options. The location, nestled between downtown and Burnside, is perfect, putting you within easy reach of some of Portland’s best dining and shopping, including the iconic Powell’s City of Books. 

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A couple more options that were on my list:

Sentinel Hotel

A historic gem in the heart of Portland, offering elegant accommodations in a restored early 20th-century building. Oh, and they have an always available virtual concierge, Paige.

Kex Hotels

A trendy, boutique accommodation in Portland that combines eclectic, industrial-chic design with a lively, communal atmosphere and modern comforts. Oh, and they also have bunk rooms!

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Cliff Notes: Things to Experience

Want the quick list of things I did and absolutely loved? If you want more detail, head to my 4-Day Itinerary. 

Powell’s City of Books: The world’s largest independent bookstore, offering an extensive collection of new and used books across multiple floors and rooms.

Blackfish Gallery: An independent gallery showcasing contemporary art from emerging and established local artists.

West End & Pearl District Neighborhood: A vibrant area known for its eclectic mix of shops, galleries, dining options, and historic architecture.

Alberta Street Gallery: A dynamic arts venue featuring diverse exhibitions and events from local and regional artists.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): An interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and an impressive array of scientific displays.

Planetarium (part of OMSI): A cutting-edge facility offering immersive astronomical shows and educational programs about the universe.

Portland Japanese Garden: A serene, beautifully landscaped garden offering a tranquil escape with traditional Japanese design elements.

International Rose Test Garden: A lush garden showcasing over 10,000 rose bushes and a breathtaking view of Portland’s skyline.

Lake Trillium: A picturesque alpine lake offering scenic views and outdoor activities in a peaceful natural setting.

Multnomah Falls: The tallest waterfall in Oregon, renowned for its stunning beauty and scenic hiking trails.

Parker Orchards: An orchard providing a delightful array of fresh fruit and seasonal produce in a picturesque setting.

Witch’s Castle: A historic, ivy-clad stone structure set in Forest Park, offering a glimpse into Portland’s eerie past.

Portland Sign @ Night: An iconic neon sign that lights up the city skyline, offering a quintessential Portland photo op.

Portland Farmers Market: A bustling market featuring fresh produce, local goods, and artisan treats from Portland’s best vendors.

Portland Art Museum: The oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest, housing an extensive collection of artworks from around the world.

Oregon Historical Society: A museum dedicated to preserving and sharing Oregon’s rich history through exhibits and educational programs.

Mt. Tabor Park: An urban park featuring a dormant volcano, scenic trails, and panoramic views of the city.

Voodoo Donuts: A quirky donut shop famous for its inventive flavors and offbeat atmosphere.

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My 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Feast for Breakfast

The Daily Feast
837 SW 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97205

The Daily Feast in Portland is a colorful diner that takes American breakfast staples and gives them a creative twist. If you’re a fan of chilaquiles, this place is a must-visit. Their version is spot-on, with house-fried corn chips that perfectly hold up against a spicy tomato sauce, topped with avocado, cilantro, and two eggs cooked over medium. I couldn’t resist adding bacon because, well, bacon.

The diner might be tight on space, but they’ve managed to fit quite a few tables and counters, making the most of their cozy setting. Despite the snug quarters, the service is fast and comes with a smile, ensuring you have a pleasant experience even in the bustling atmosphere.

Helpful Tip: Their Iced Chai packs a punch, so unless you need to stay awake for a longer-than-usual time, stick to just one.

Visiting West End & Pearl District

The West End and Pearl District in Portland, Oregon, are must-visit neighborhoods. The West End is known for its artistic vibe, featuring an array of indie boutiques, vintage stores, and trendy cafes, all nestled along its picturesque streets. The Pearl District, on the other hand, offers a mix of upscale galleries, chic boutiques, and a thriving food scene. Both areas boast impressive public art and murals that add to their creative flair. Parking is available in designated lots and on the street, but the best way to explore is on foot.

Literary Paradise

Powell’s City of Books
1005 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209

Powell’s City of Books is a Portland icon, renowned for being the largest independent bookstore in the world. Located in the Pearl District, this literary haven spans an entire city block and houses over a million books across multiple floors. It’s so vast that they even have a computer setup to help you find exactly what you’re searching for – something you’ll be grateful for as you navigate the store’s nine color-coded rooms and more than 3,500 sections. They even have an elevator! We left Powell’s having spent way more than expected, but that’s only because their impressive collection was too enticing to resist.

Helpful Tip: At Powell’s, you might find books in more than one location! For example, a book about a lesbian romance might be shelved in the LGBTQ+ section and in “Romance” which is part of the coffee section.

Lil’ Lunch

Lil’ Shalom
1128 SW Alder St, Portland, OR 97205

Helpful Tip: Seats at Lil’ Shalom are often at a premium, so getting a table might require a wait. If you’re not up for it, consider ordering to go.

More Murals 

If you’re a fan of murals, the West End and Pearl District in Portland have plenty to offer. Murals and street art are scattered throughout these neighborhoods, adding a colorful touch to the urban landscape. Portland boasts over 600 murals citywide, making it a paradise for art lovers. With such a diverse collection, it’s hard to pick a favorite. 

Alberta Arts District

Alberta Street Gallery
1829 NE Alberta St Unit B, Portland, OR 97211

It’s no surprise that Alberta Street Gallery has become a must-visit for art enthusiasts. As an artist collective showcasing high-quality art from 30 local, professional artists, the gallery features a diverse range of mediums, including paintings, sculpture, ceramics, metalwork, photography, fiber, glass, and jewelry. Visitors can explore the original artworks and interact directly with the artists.

Helpful Tip: Not sure how you’ll fit that artwork in your luggage? Alberta Street Gallery offers shipping services to ensure you can easily bring a piece of Portland art home with you.

What’s a’Matta?

Matta at Dame
Pop-up locations

Matta’s food is a fusion of traditional Vietnamese flavors with ingredients found in the Pacific Northwest, showcasing how versatile Vietnamese cuisine truly is. Though their food truck has closed, we caught them during their residency at Dame Restaurant as part of the Dame Collective.

Their dishes bring together classic and recognizable flavors with a bit of swagger. The Dà Lạt, a special Vietnamese fried chicken, featured juicy chicken thighs coated in a perfectly crispy rice flour dredge. We also devoured the Sườn Nướng, grilled pork ribs with a caramelized glaze that struck a perfect balance of sweet and umami.

Unfortunately, their residency at Dame has ended for now, but follow them on social media to find out where they’re cooking next.

Helpful Tip: If you see dessert on Matta’s menu, definitely save room. We had their strawberry sundae and it was a flavor revelation with Kate’s vanilla ice cream, strawberry basil jam, toasted mint sesame seeds, and chili-lime peanuts. 

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Day 2

Baked Goods for Breakfast

Flour Bloom
103 NE Grand Ave, Portland, OR 97232

Our first stop of the day was Flour Bloom in Portland. This New Yorker loves an Italian bakery, so once we knew we were visiting Portland, Flour Bloom was high on my list of places to eat because they bring New York-Italian style treats to the Pacific Northwest, wrapped in a 1970s disco bow. 

Everything we tried was top tier, but the standout for me was their iced chai – perfectly spiced and refreshingly smooth. Their breakfast sammie was also a hit, featuring crispy bacon, a perfectly fried egg, and melty cheese, all nestled between your choice of bread. I opted for a croissant, and it was fantastic – flaky and buttery, rivaling any croissant I’ve had in Paris or Iceland.

But Flour Bloom offers more than just baked goods and beverages. They also sell a variety of plants and locally made goodies, making it a great spot to pick up a gift or something special for yourself.

Helpful Tip: If you order their cinnamon roll, make sure to bring an entire football team with you because it’s bigger than my head. And absolutely delicious. But absolutely massive.

Subs & Dinos & Space, Oh My!

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214

Tyrannosaurs – Meet the Family brings the latest discoveries about these legendary predators to life, challenging our old assumptions. Sadly, Tyrannosaurs – Meet the Family closes on September 8, 2024, but I’m certain whatever takes its place will be just as impressive. OMSI has a history of curating extraordinary exhibits, so there’s always something exciting to look forward to!

You can truly spend an entire day at OMSI. There are ticketed experiences, as well, like the Kendall Planetarium and the USS Blueback Submarine. Plan to check out the exhibitions during the morning and then schedule some ticketed events for after lunch.

The USS Blueback, the U.S. Navy’s last active-duty diesel-electric submarine, offers a fascinating glimpse into life underwater. We had the privilege of touring the submarine with a former Navy man who once served on a similar vessel. His insights made the experience truly special, and it was well worth the cost of admission.

Helpful Tip: If you plan to tour the submarine, it’s best to avoid wearing 5-inch platform boots. While not impossible, it’s certainly easier without them!

The Kendall Planetarium is another highlight, featuring a variety of shows ranging from educational programs like Solar Superstorms to kid-friendly movies and music-themed performances. With 200 seats and a 52-foot domed theater, it’s one of the most advanced planetariums in the Pacific Northwest. We were fortunate to have the planetarium to ourselves, allowing us to enjoy the best seats in the house and a private showing. My kiddo even got a behind-the-scenes look at how the lights work, making the experience even more memorable.

Lunch around America

Lil’ America
1015 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97214

We met up with a friend and headed over to Lil’ America in Portland for lunch. Portland is known for its impressive selection of food trucks, so we had to visit a few pods during our stay.

Lil’ America is a BIPOC and QUEER-led Food Cart Pod. It’s more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s an intentional community hub attached to the Fracture Brewing Taproom. Here, you can savor incredible dishes from various culinary traditions while enjoying award-winning beer and cocktails. They also host community events, drag shows, dance parties, and more, making it one of the coolest food spots around!

We tried dishes from several carts, and let me tell you, everything was amazing. We even found ourselves going back for a second dinner one night – just like hobbits, it was that good! It’s hard to pick just one standout, but Frybaby’s Korean fried chicken with snow cheese was an absolute flavor bomb, perfectly blending sweet, savory, and crunchy in every bite. Their spicy-creamy kimchi mac ‘n cheese is a must-try fusion of southern comfort food with Korean flavors.

Makulít also left a lasting impression. This Filipino-American fusion cart delivered big on taste and personality. Their pulled pork poutine with adobo gravy was rich and generously portioned, and the lumpia? Absolutely unmissable. The friendly folks running the truck made the experience even better – I instantly felt like I wanted to be friends with them.

Helpful Tip: Lil’ America is the perfect spot to visit with friends and family. Grab a dish or two from each cart, and share family-style. You won’t be disappointed!

Magic & Self Care

Seagrape Apothecary
2823 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97232

After lunch, we made our way to Seagrape Apothecary, a welcoming space dedicated to self-care and empowerment. The store is filled with candles, herbs, books, tarot decks, body care products, and so much more. They even have a photo booth, and you know I love a photo booth! You can take live classes and they even host workshops. While you can shop online, I highly recommend making the trip in person if you can.

A Rose By Any Other Name

International Rose Test Garden
400 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205

Helpful Tip: Parking near the Portland International Rose Test Garden is very limited. To make your visit easier, consider taking the light rail, bus, or the free shuttle (available March – November), or enjoy a scenic walk to the park.

The garden originally served as a sanctuary for hybrid roses from Europe during World War I, with the first flowers arriving in 1918. The garden, along with its amphitheater, was officially dedicated in 1924 and includes several sections, such as the Royal Rosarian Garden, the Shakespeare Garden, and the Miniature Rose Garden.

Urban Oasis

Portland Japanese Garden
611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205

Nestled in the hills of Portland, Oregon’s iconic Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden offers a tranquil urban oasis with stunning views of the city and a spectacular backdrop of Mt. Hood. Designed in 1963, this 12.5-acre garden features eight distinct styles, including an authentic Japanese Tea House, meandering streams, and intimate walkways. 

His Excellency Nobuo Matsunaga, the former Ambassador of Japan to the United States, praised it as “the most beautiful and authentic Japanese garden in the world outside of Japan”.

Helpful Tip: To fully appreciate the garden’s peace and beauty, visit a couple of hours before closing for a quieter experience, and make sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views.

Let’s Eat!

Magna Kusina
2525 SE Clinton St, Portland, OR 97202

Growing up and loving traditional Filipino cuisine, I was really excited to try Magna Kusina’s take on using those traditional flavors… with a twist. 

My first impression of Magna Kusina, as soon as I walked in and was seated, was that it was buzzing with energy and packed to the brim. Every table was overflowing with plates of steaming food, and the room was filled with the sounds of people sharing, chatting, and laughing. It felt like I had stumbled into one big, lively restaurant family dinner, where I was welcomed as a special guest.

While the atmosphere is casual and the waitstaff definitely treats you like long-time friends and family, there’s nothing laid-back about this food. It’s intentional and gutsy, packing a punch with bold, complex flavors that hit your taste buds with a mix of salty, sour, sweet, and funky. Every dish is rich and layered, delivering a taste experience that’s as dynamic as the people who serve it.

Helpful Tip: Start with the tuhog, or Filipino street food skewers, and don’t be shy about trying them all. We sampled the chicken BBQ, longanisa (Filipino pork sausage), and sugpo (tiger prawn), but the real standout was the kabute, or mushrooms. They were a hidden gem, packed with umami and practically melting off the skewer.

The sisig was a serious standout. Magna Kusina’s take on this traditional Pinoy dish features bits of pork marinated in soy sauce and calamansi, mixed with onions and chili, and topped with an egg. When it arrives on a sizzling skillet, you get those super delicious crispy bits of pork on the edges and throughout, adding an amazing textural component to the succulent, salty, umami-rich, and fatty dish.

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Day 3

Day Trip To Mt. Hood

Mt. Hood is about 50 miles from Portland, or about two hours depending on the route you take. We left fairly early so we could get breakfast after our first stop, Trillium Lake.

Helpful Tip: You can reach Mount Hood from Portland using public transportation. Take the MAX Light Rail Blue Line to Gresham, then transfer to the Mt. Hood Express (Route 54) for the journey to Mount Hood.

Peace & Reflection

Trillium Lake
Mt. Hood National Forest
Trillium Lake, Oregon 97028

I was eager to find the perfect place to take in the beauty of Mount Hood. After researching the best trails and viewpoints, I found that Trillium Lake offered a stunning perspective of the mountain that was inherently picturesque. Surrounded by trees and enjoying the remoteness of this locale, it quickly became one of the most breathtaking sights I’ve encountered in America. 

Mount Hood, standing at 11,240 feet, is the highest peak in Oregon and a prominent landmark in the Cascade Range. 

Trillium Lake, created in the 1960s by damming a nearby stream, enhances the area’s natural charm with its beautiful reflections of Mount Hood. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and picnicking amidst the stunning scenery. The lake also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and star-gazing, and in winter, it transforms into a popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Its proximity to Mount Hood makes it a perfect base for exploring the surrounding national forest and enjoying a wide range of outdoor activities.

Donuts & More

Packer Orchards & Bakery
3900 OR-35, Hood River, OR 97031

Our next stop was Packer Orchards & Bakery, a family-owned spot that has been providing fresh fruits and homemade baked goods since 1920. They are one of the many potential stops on the “Fruit Loop”, a scenic driving route through Oregon’s Hood River Valley. This route features numerous orchards, farm stands, wineries, and flower farms.

We specifically wanted to visit an orchard in search of the best apple cider donuts, which are my absolute favorite apple orchard treat from the Northeast. 

Helpful Tip: Packer Orchards & Bakery makes their apple cider donuts on an as-needed basis, so if you’re flexible with your timing, it’s worth calling ahead to check if they’re freshly made. However, even day-old donuts were absolutely delicious.

But the bakery offers so much more than just donuts. They sell an array of homemade pies, cookies, and pastries, alongside jars of jams, preserves, and other artisanal goods. They even have an ice cream stand. You can also find fresh produce, including apples, pears, and other seasonal fruits grown right on the orchard. Their shelves are stocked with locally-made honey, syrups, and other treats that make perfect gifts or souvenirs.

You can also enjoy your treats at one of their outdoor tables, which offer an amazing view of the surrounding orchards and the majestic Mount Hood in the distance. It’s the perfect spot to relax, savor your treats, and take in the natural beauty of the area.

Summer Falls

Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Creek in the Columbia River Gorge

Helpful Tip: It’s essential to plan ahead – reservations are required to access Multnomah Falls. Without a timed-entry pass, you won’t be allowed in, so make sure to secure your spot in advance to enjoy this breathtaking experience.

Getting to Multnomah Falls from Portland is easy and convenient with public transportation. You can catch the Columbia Gorge Express, which departs regularly from the Gateway Transit Center in Portland. The bus ride is scenic, taking you along the Columbia River Gorge with stunning views along the way. The express service is affordable and drops you off right at the falls, making it a hassle-free option for those who prefer not to drive. 

Lunch in Portland

Eastport Food Carts
Sadly closed, but keeping this here so you can still find out about the carts

After our day trip to Mt. Hood, we returned to Portland with one goal in mind: finding a delicious lunch, particularly Filipino Spaghetti. All my research pointed to LGM Delicacies, a cart in the now-closed Eastport Food Cart pod. Though the pod is sadly no longer around, the flavors we experienced there are absolutely worth tracking down at LGM’s new location.

The Filipino Spaghetti at LGM Delicacies was the ultimate comfort food, bringing back memories of my Tia Marie’s cooking. This dish is a tasty blend of salty and sweet, with tender noodles coated in a rich, banana ketchup sauce that’s distinctly Filipino. Topped with slices of hotdog, ground meat, and a sprinkling of cheese, one serving could easily feed a family of four!

And I can’t leave out the jumbo lumpia they serve. Lumpia are Filipino spring rolls, typically filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and vegetables, wrapped in thin, crispy pastry. But these weren’t just any lumpia – they were massive, about 8 inches long each! And they were absolutely delicious.

Helpful Tip: Filipino food is known for its sweetness, and if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss their Halo Halo topped with Ube soft serve. It’s a fantastic version of a popular Filipino street dessert and perfect for cooling down after a hearty meal.

Tea & Threads

Barnes & Morgan
131 NW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97209

Barnes & Morgan is a beacon of hope and community in Old Town/Chinatown, Portland. It offers tea, a symbol of hospitality, and threads, a symbol of storytelling. I was warmly welcomed, lingered to savor the experience, and departed with countless stories and a heart full of contentment.

A special mention goes to Amir, the passionate owner, who infuses Barnes & Morgan with his warm spirit and dedication. His deep knowledge of tea, his talent for design, and genuine love for the community are evident in every corner of the shop. I also got to spend a bit of time talking with his mama, and while those stories are just for me, they really warmed my heart and taught me a bit more about why Amir is so passionate about community building.

I enjoyed sampling their impressive tea selection and found my standout favorite: the Blooming Dragon. This brew offered a mix of nutty, floral, and citrusy notes, and it was especially refreshing iced on a hot summer’s day.

Helpful Tip: While this area of Portland faces challenges with homelessness and crime, establishments like Barnes & Morgan are shining beacons, contributing to the area’s revitalization. The community here is eager to share their corner of Portland with you.

Hikes & Witches

Witch’s Castle
Lower Macleay Trail, Portland, OR 97210

Witch’s Castle in Portland’s Forest Park is a historic stone ruin from the 1930s, surrounded by local folklore. Also known as “The Stone House” or “The Witch’s Hut,” legends suggest the castle was once home to a witch who practiced dark magic, giving it its name. Whether you believe in the legend or not, the energy of the site is undeniable.

Just a 5-minute drive from downtown, Witch’s Castle can be reached via two scenic trails: a short half-mile hike from Upper Macleay Parking Lot or a slightly longer 3/4-mile hike from Lower Macleay Parking Lot. Both paths offer beautiful forest views, streams, and moss-covered branches.

Helpful Tip: The parking areas on the street get filled fairly quickly so make sure you check the small parking lots at the start of each hike. They can be easy to miss initially while still in your car.

James Beard Nominated 

Gado Gado
1801 NE Cesar E Chavez Blvd, Portland, OR 97212

If you’ve followed me for even two minutes, you know how important my Indonesian heritage is to me. As a first-gen Indonesian-American, there are so many things I absolutely love about being Indonesian, and the food is a big part of that. So, when I heard that Portland has a James Beard-nominated Indonesian restaurant, I was beyond intrigued. And when I discovered they were offering their interpretation of a “rijsttafel” – a colonial concept where a variety of Indonesian dishes are served to showcase the abundance of the colony – I was curious, but also a bit apprehensive about the authenticity.

Of course, we had to try the rice table. Especially since I hosted a birthday party in Indonesia, where, although we didn’t have a Rijsttafel because of its colonial roots, we did offer a buffet of many Indonesian specialties – similar to what you’d find in a Rijsttafel. This gave me a unique perspective to compare the food, flavors, and overall spirit of the experience.

Helpful Tip: If you have the room, don’t miss a couple of standout dishes from the à la carte menu. The Roasted Trumpet Mushroom & Brussels Sprout dish was salty, umami-rich, with a great texture and a hint of citrus at the end. And the Grilled Citrus Albacore Tuna? That dish was a revelation – tender, melt-in-your-mouth tuna bathed in a stunning, bright blood orange dashi with just the right balance of sweet, heat, and citrus.

Let me say, the food was very good, and the spread was indeed impressive. While I’m mindful of the colonial implications of a Rijsttafel, I do think chef Thomas Pisha-Duffly is doing a wonderful job of honoring his Chinese-Indonesian and Malaysian heritage with this menu. If you go in expecting a fusion experience with Dutch & Chinese influences, you’ll find it to be a delicious meal.

And for a sweet ending, the Orange Cardamom Apple Cider Donuts are a fun little play on Dutch oliebollen and were absolutely delicious. The kaya jam served alongside was a great Indonesian flavor tie-in that really brought it all together.

I have to mention the service as well. The staff at Gado Gado is attentive, knowledgeable, kind, and just so warm and friendly. The spirit of the place took me back to my home in Indonesia, which made the experience all the more special. If you are looking for an absolutely delicious meal, with excellent service, Gado Gado will deliver just that. 

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Day 4

This Little Family Went to Market

Portland Farmers Market
Portland State University
SW Park & Montgomery

Our first stop on our final day in Portland took us to the Portland Farmers Market, held year-round every Saturday at Portland State University. With approximately 9,000 of your closest friends, you can experience some of the best Portland has to offer. The market features around 100 vendor stalls showcasing local farmers, food producers, bakers, and chefs.

While we were there, a trio called Traffyk Jam played live music, including one man expertly playing the melodica – a harmonica-like instrument with a small handheld keyboard that you blow into to produce sound.

Helpful Tip: This market gets busy quickly, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting with breakfast or lunch in mind. Many vendor stalls have long lines, some even requiring signage to manage the queue. While the food is definitely worth the wait, make sure to account for your hunger.

We sampled quite a few goodies, but the standouts for us were the teriyaki chicken skewers from Great Tang and the spinach tamales from Sara Mexican Tamales. Both dishes were reasonably priced, had fairly short waits, and were absolutely delicious.

OMG Shoes

Portland Art Museum
1219 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205

While we were visiting, the Portland Art Museum was undergoing a massive expansion and renovation. This project, set to open in late 2025, will add 95,000 square feet of new or upgraded space, improving access to exhibitions and enhancing the visitor experience. Due to the construction, we were only able to see one special exhibit: Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting-Edge Kicks.

Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting-Edge Kicks explores the intersection of fashion, technology, and culture. The exhibit features groundbreaking designs, highlighting how digital creativity and advanced materials are shaping the future of footwear. Since I am a shoe fanatic, this was such a fun opportunity for us. 

Helpful Tip: With construction expected to continue into 2025, definitely check their website or call ahead to ensure there’s an exhibit you’re interested in seeing. But if the quality of the one we saw is any indication of what’s to come, you won’t want to miss PAM.

Oregon: A History

Oregon Historical Society Museum
1200 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205

Our favorite permanent exhibit was the “Experience Oregon” interactive exhibit, which brings the state’s history to life, detailed sections on Native American heritage, and showcases from Oregon’s pivotal moments, such as the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 

Helpful Tip: Check out the Oregon Historical Society’s website before your visit to explore their online exhibits and plan your route. With three floors of exhibitions and a diverse collection, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Oddities & Ends

The Raven’s Wing Magical Co-Op
7927 SE 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97202

Before lunch, we stopped by Raven’s Wing Magical Co-Op, an employee-owned witch shop located in the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood of Portland, Oregon. Known for its eclectic mix of mystical items and magical supplies, the shop offers everything from crystals and tarot cards to spell ingredients and unique curiosities. In addition to their diverse selection of products, they host both in-person and online classes across multiple subjects, including tarot reading, herbalism, spellcrafting, and meditation.

Lunchland

Hinterland Bar & Food Carts
2216 SE 50th Ave, Portland, OR 97215

We decided to explore another food cart pod, Hinterland Bar & Food Carts, located near Mt. Tabor. With multiple food trucks to choose from and a full bar with both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s an excellent lunch spot. 

Helpful Tip: Grab a table before you order because this popular food spot can get busy quickly. You can also enjoy some drinks from the bar while you wait for your food.

We sampled a bit from each cart and the bar, and our favorites were the potstickers from Thai Panther and the Thai tea from the bar. We also really loved the pizza from Pizza Gold. And on a hot summer day, we really appreciated the indoor seating.

Atop a Volcano

Mt. Tabor Park
SE 60th Ave &, SE Salmon St, Portland, OR 97215

Don’t forget to bring a camera for the stunning cityscape and Mount Hood views. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, hike to the top of the park for the best vantage points.

Helpful Tip: For a memorable visit to Mount Tabor Park, try to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy the park’s tranquility and avoid crowds. 

Secret Party

Han Oak
511 NE 24th Ave, Portland, OR 97232

Tucked away behind a leafy exterior, Han Oak is more than just a dining spot – it’s a heartfelt celebration of Korean family-style dining. Recognized as Restaurant of the Year by The Oregonian and Portland Monthly in 2017 and featured in Esquire magazine’s 2021 list of 100 restaurants “America can’t afford to lose”, Han Oak’s reputation speaks volumes.

The highlight of Han Oak is the Gimbap Party, a dining experience centered around Korean Gimbap. Gimbap, which translates to “seaweed rice”, is often misleadingly labeled as “Korean sushi” due to its visual similarity to Japanese futomaki rolls. However, it’s different from sushi. At Han Oak, preparing your own Gimbap roll becomes a shared activity where you wrap well-seasoned rice in crisp seaweed with a variety of flavorful fillings, from pickled vegetables to tender meats. 

Helpful Tip: You can request additional servings of gimbap ingredients. We found that adding extra egg ribbons, rice, and seaweed made the experience even more enjoyable when we ran low on these essentials.

Han Oak is known for its dumpling nights. Although their a la carte menu is limited, the pork and beef dumplings are a must-try, rich with umami and a tangy kick from black vinegar.

And just when I thought I couldn’t eat another bite: the Bing Soo. This Korean shaved ice dessert was the perfect ending to our meal. Han Oak’s version featured rice milk, strawberry perilla sorbet, rhubarb gelee, matcha powder, sweetened condensed milk, and strawberries. It was delicate, not overly sweet, and offered a really nice balance of brightness and tartness.

Voodoo You Do

Voodoo Doughnut
1501 NE Davis St, Portland, OR 97232

Our last stop of the day was Voodoo Doughnut, because it’s far too iconic to miss. These doughnuts range from works of art to comical confections. For the faint of heart, don’t worry – they have some standard fare, like a classic cake doughnut with chocolate icing. But for the adventurous, they also offer bold creations like the spicy Diablos Rex.

Helpful Tip: This location is open 24 hours, so if you have flexibility in your schedule, definitely avoid peak hours and try to visit off-peak. The lines can get really long during busy times. We went after dinner for a late-night dessert and found there was no line at all, with plenty of fresh doughnuts to choose from.

My favorite was a standard apple fritter, which had a perfect balance of a crispy outside and a pillowy inside, with tender pieces of apple and loads of cinnamon. Each bite was a delicious experience that perfectly captured the essence of what makes Voodoo Doughnut a must-visit spot.

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Closing Thoughts

You’ve reached the end of my Portland travel guide, and I’m already dreaming about the amazing food I had in this fantastic city! I hope this guide helps you plan your own journey to PDX. This city has so much to offer that even a packed itinerary of 4 days felt like it was barely scratching the surface. I was constantly discovering new places to explore, which might overwhelm some travelers (yes, I squeezed even more into my stay than what’s covered here!).

Portland is incredibly family-friendly, inclusive, and brimming with a mix of weirdness and forward-thinking spirit. With its rich history and innovative vibe, it offers something special for everyone. And let’s not forget the food – from food trucks to fine dining, Portland’s culinary scene is a dream come true.

Honestly, the incredible landscape views that surround you in Portland are enough to make me ready to visit again.

Before I wrap up, I want to address a topic that many people have asked me about: homelessness in Portland. It’s important to acknowledge that, at times, it was jarring to see the visible presence of unsheltered individuals throughout the city. This is a national issue that has significantly impacted Portland, where a lack of shelter has made the homeless population more noticeable compared to some other cities facing similar challenges. I made sure to stay aware of my surroundings and kept my belongings secure, but it’s clear that this is a complex issue that the city is actively working to address. But there aren’t any quick fix solutions at this point, which is evident by the state of emergency Governor Kotek issued in 2023. 

The presence of so many unsheltered individuals is a stark reminder of the urgent need for more comprehensive solutions and support systems. While it was sobering to see, it’s also clear that Portland’s efforts to tackle this issue are ongoing. The city’s commitment to addressing homelessness reflects its dedication to creating a more inclusive community.

Portland’s incredible landscapes and unshakeable culture offer a glimpse into its potential for positive change. Despite the challenges, the city remains a place of remarkable beauty and innovation. I hope that as Portland continues to work on solutions for its unhoused population, it can further shine in all the ways it has to offer.

Questions for you:

• If you’ve never visited, what activity are you most excited to check out during your visit?
• If you’ve traveled to Portland before, how similar were our itineraries?
• And if you’re a Portland local, what hidden gems am I missing from this 4-Day Portland, Oregon Travel Guide? Leave me a comment and let me know.

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