Top Rated Attractions in Portland

Relief columns grace the formal entrance of this solemn site located at the south end of the Japanese Memorial at Waterfront Park. Haiku-engraved broken stones and 100 cherry trees line the walk. The plaza recalls the 110,000 Japanese-Americans who were put in internment camps during World War II, and the broken stones represent the broken dreams of these people. Although the stroll or bike ride is a sobering journey, the year-round beauty of the memorial is a testament that we may still learn from our mistakes.

Sparkling in the sunlight or reflecting overcast skies, you can spot this landmark from nearly every viewpoint in the City of Portland. Built by U.S. Bancorp, the flashy rose-colored skyscraper has been affectionately dubbed "Big Pink." With 43 floors shooting into the downtown sky, it is Portland's tallest high-rise. Crowning the skyline, the structure can be seen from Council Crest in the southwest, Mount Tabor in the east and Overlook Park in the north.

The Waldo Block is a historic building constructed in 1886. It is situated in Downtown Portland and displays an Italianate style of architecture. It became a part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

Fans of romance have to visit this working railway station and work of art. Look for the landmark clock tower peeking out from the silhouettes of the northern bridges and follow it to the brick station that fairly oozes history. The historic station still handles train traffic as a main terminal of the Pacific Northwest.

Butters Gallery, operating since 1988, contains unique and beautiful artwork from both local and international artisans. The gallery is family owned and run and has become known in the area as a well-respected place for paintings, glasswork, metal sculptures, prints and more. Each piece is exquisitely displayed without color or other objects distracting your view. A walk through the gallery allows a quiet and reflective time. Displays are ever changing, as each month the gallery chooses a new artist's work to exhibit. One trip is never enough to enjoy Butters Gallery.

Established in 1979, this artist-owned gallery is committed to bringing the Portland area fresh art that reaches the culturally diverse. Local artists' works are displayed at the gallery, including such innovative contemporary work as the incredibly vivid watercolor paintings by Barbara Black and colored lithographs by Jana Demartini. Special exhibits are held year-round, and patrons can call the gallery for show times. Be sure to visit during the First Thursday Gallery Walks.