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.
An Oregon tradition, this open-air market is the largest continuously operated outdoor market in the United States and is comprised of tents, booths and sidewalk displays stretches from the Burnside Bridge to the Skidmore Fountain. Every batik wall hanging, tie-dyed T-shirt, papier-mache mask, glass sculpture and wooden trinket box is handmade, usually by the person manning the booth. Ask the craftspeople about their work or commission a one-of-a-kind item. Stroll around and watch magicians, listen to music or nosh on a world of food—from falafel to chowders and everything in between. Credit card acceptance varies from vendor to vendor.
No one would blame you for mistaking the Belmont Station for beer heaven. This charming shop and cafe offers its customers a jaw-dropping selection of over 1200 bottled varieties of beer that are cared for in a manner that ensures absolute freshness and crisp taste. Adjoining the shop is a delightful little biercafe where people can meet over a pint of brew and explore the current brew selection with fellow beer lovers. The cafe serves up a rotating selection of 20 beers on tap alongside delicious Italian-inspired meals from The Italian Market. With such a well-curated and varied selection on offer, you are sure to find something that perfectly suits your taste as you explore new discoveries and indulge in old favorites. Keep an eye on the Belmont Station website and facebook page for updates on beer tastings and special events.
On your way in or out of town, this could be a necessary stop. Located near three of Portland's main roadways (Interstate 5, State Highway 26 and State Highway 217), Washington Square is a convenient place to shop. Saturdays get fairly crowded, but the five major department stores, 100-plus specialty shops and well-kept landscape make it worthy of a visit if you like the mall thing. Be sure to grab a bite in one of the many restaurants.
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.
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.
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.
If you love pampering yourself then Seagrape bath + body is just the right place for you. Exuding aromas, the store has a neat layout that facilitates easy browsing. From essential oils, indulgent bath soaps, aromantic candles, hair products and bath accessories, are all carefully laid out for your perusal. The staff is knowledgeable and always available for assistance.
The outdoor bug is sure to bite you when in Oregon, and before you hit the woods and water, make a stop at Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe. Get kitted out in the most durable of water sportswear and find the right canoe or kayak from their four primary lines. If you're unsure, Alder Creek is also Oregon's largest fleet rental store and the instructors offer lessons to landlubbers. They will even take you on the Columbia River so that you can give the gear a once over. You may not be Lewis or Clark, but you won't be far behind.