Sure, you could order online from Powell's City of Books, but you would miss seeing one of the largest independent bookstores in the United States. With over 1.5 million books in 3,500 different sections, this shop covers an entire city block and offers new, used, rare and out-of-print books. Many come to browse, get out of the rain, drink coffee in the cafe and pontificate. Authors read their works several evenings a week. This iconic store is a Portland must visit.
Summer Saturdays are special in the City of Roses. Not only is the Saturday Market in season, but so is all the beautiful produce that is traded at this farmers market. Spread out in the South Park Blocks near Portland State University, the market features fresh plants, flowers, herbs, breads, cheeses and organic meats. From May through October, the country harvest is brought into the city. Visitors should check out the Oregon History Center while in the area. If you are feeling adventurous, there are many other locations- one for every day of the week.
If you are a fan of rock music then a visit to the Mississippi Records comes most recommended for you. The place has a humble storefront, but nevertheless it beckons visitors and locals with its vintage display and precious vinyl records. As you step inside, you are sure to be transported back into the golden years of rock music; the place has a warm and welcoming vibe, and all of the music paraphernalia around manages to keep your attention locked in. Browse through isles after isles of records, pick up your favorites and do not forget to interact with the owner, if you are looking for something in particular. Their music collection keeps refreshing from time to time, and the focus is always on expanding their ever-popular library to suit the needs of eclectic music fans.
Pearl District will enthrall you with its local legends, thriving art scene and more. Many consider this part of town to be the heart of the art scene since it is home to galleries and boutiques. But the former warehouse district after its urban renewal, is among the best shopping districts in the city. Walk down the cobblestone streets of this neighborhood and take in the sights. Explore its markets, specialty stores, unique boutiques and eateries.
Downtown Portland is the heartbeat of the city and its cultural mishmash will appeal to everyone. Shopaholics will go crazy with its tax-free shopping and foodies will delight in the numerous culinary offerings. From food carts to upscale eateries, there is something for everyone. You will also find eclectic boutiques, branded names, flagship stores and more. Some of the interesting sights are the Pioneer Courthouse Square, Tom McCall Waterfront Park and Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. The neighboring Old Town, Chinatown and colored canvases of the Pearl District are equally fascinating places to explore.
Lose yourself in the world of books as you visit Annie Bloom's, one of the city's beloved independent book stores. Be it romance, fiction, classics, self help or other genres that you are looking for, the store has something for every taste. Besides the international best sellers, the bookstore prioritizes local authors. In addition to books, the store features a variety of greeting cards, CDs and other artifacts that make for great gifting ideas. The bookstore is host to several book reading and review sessions for all age groups and is truly a book lovers' paradise.
Step through the looking glass and enter a world where the bizarre is beautiful at Hoodoo Antiques & Design. This shop boasts an unusual collection of furniture, artwork, light fixtures and collectibles, with a smattering of taxidermy, posters and more. Created using down-on-their-luck antiques and collectibles, Hoodoo's collection is a mass of oddities that have been brought back to life in an intriguing way that goes beyond simple restoration. Unusual treasures and statement pieces that are sure to enliven your home decor are easy enough to find at Hoodoo Antiques & Design; choosing just one of the many on offer is what promises to be the true challenge. The store also offer prop rentals, and can be visited outside open hours by appointment.
Floating World Comics is an exciting bookstore for artists and readers that showcases books that are a treasure to own and read. Curated books that are rare but make for a great read are also available at this store. Art shows held on a monthly basis at the store invites talented cartoonists to share and display their craft. A record store is also housed in the premises and is a great place to find music from across genres.
For those who constantly keep a watchful eye for quirky fashion, a visit to the Upper Playground is must. When you step inside this store, you are sure to be surrounded by vivacious colors, its every wall has graffiti and the selection of clothes and accessories complement the theme of the place. T-shirts are their highest selling items, these come designed with whimsical art and their quality is top notch. Upper Playground also has quite a selection of pullovers and bags, and they also sell footwear. The place boasts of a distinctive character; it's an art gallery that comes with a store or could also be described the other way round. It all depends on what you are here for!
Tender Loving Empire, associated with an eponymous record label, is located on 10th Avenue. A far cry from your run-of-the-mill record stores, this store has an eclectic inventory that features their own records, their line of tees and a huge collection of cutesy, local handicrafts and art pieces which are truly quite adorable. The also offer made-to-order tee-shirts at their screenprinting corner, located on-site. If you're looking for interesting souvenirs to take back home, or just something to decorate your place, even if you want a copy to your favorite Tender Loving Empire album, The Tender Loving Empire Store is where you should be!
Sure, you could order online from Powell's City of Books, but you would miss seeing one of the largest independent bookstores in the United States. With over 1.5 million books in 3,500 different sections, this shop covers an entire city block and offers new, used, rare and out-of-print books. Many come to browse, get out of the rain, drink coffee in the cafe and pontificate. Authors read their works several evenings a week. This iconic store is a Portland must visit.
Artistic Portland is an artists' co-operative and crafts store that is stocked to the brim with handcrafted, original artwork created by local artists and artisans. The store is stocked and staffed by the co-operative's members, offering collectors and casual shoppers a rare chance to browse through artwork created by over 50 local artists, simultaneously granting part-time and emerging artists space to display and sell their wares. Artistic Portland also encompasses workspace where members often host workshops and classes.