Top Rated Attracties in Portland

Get a glimpse of the oriental culture right in the heart of Portland at Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center. Established in 2004, this center works towards conserving and promoting the glorious history of Japanese immigrants in the city. The museum has a vast space dedicated entirely to 'Issei immigration' (first generation). Named after the Japanese term meaning 'descendants', this museum traces the origins and cultural changes that the community has seen through the years. Thriving on donations and the meager admission fee, this museum has maintained its exhibits with great care.

Portlandia flows to the sea as you visit this piece of Rip City's past. Step on board the only remaining operational steam sternwheel tug in the country to learn all about boating while admiring all of the artifacts and exhibits. Take the tugboat tour and hear how old seafarers battled the river currents. If you want to learn more visit their library, the cheerful staff will give provide some interesting bits of information. Visit the gift store and check out the books and nautical themed gifts. The view of the city aboard the ship is an added proposition that Oregon Maritime Museum offers.

Another testament to Portland's cultural diversity, this museum has quite a collection of interesting historical material relating to Oregon Jews. Exhibits focus on Judaism in the state and around the world. In the Footsteps of Columbus is one of the many must-see permanent exhibits here, it narrates an account of the Jews of Greece. Reading material is also available at the on-site library. Many historians, as well as patrons who are fond of cultural experience, are sure to admire the collection at this museum.

Located in the heart of the cultural hub of Portland, Upfor is an art gallery which goes above and beyond simple visual exhibitions to include installations, performances and much, much more. The gallery displays contemporary art in all its forms with a bias towards the new-age digital media. Contextual presentations and performances are organized here side by side with regular installations of sculptures and paintings to create an interactive environment which is both intriguing and unique.

An eclectic, electric live art form is always progressing here. Staged in 8,000 square feet of Portland's Pearl District, Portland Institute For Contemporary Art focuses on getting audiences involved and evolving art into new forms through performance and fusion. Past presentations have included Monsters of Grace, a digital opera, and a benefit with the work of pop surrealist Kenny Schaf. The newer theater always seems to be expanding and raising funds. Members receive discounted admission and other perks.

An odd but fun museum, this place falls into the Escape from Alcatraz category. If you are into cops and robbers, there is a lot to see. Among the most interesting items are the police bike with sidecar, unusual confiscated weapons, historical uniforms and badges. To get a look at old Portland's criminal element, check out the Rogues Gallery. You will be glad the boys in blue are around after you see these characters. Visitors are allowed to click photographs, also interaction with certain exhibits is permitted.