 |
Portland, Oregon is a city known for its beauty and the convenience of being close to several natural attractions. Mountain terrain, ocean, and desert all surround Portland, and that makes this urban city stand out from the norm. Portland is home to close to 250 parks and public gardens, as well as the nation's largest urban wilderness, and the world's smallest park. A high amount of precipitation keeps the Portland area green year-round. In addition to unique weather and parks, Portland, Oregon is home to great shopping, wonderful eateries, and plenty of outdoor activities such as the Oregon Zoo and the Grotto.
 Those into shopping and sightseeing will be pleased with what Portland has to offer. The Pearl District is Portland's premier shopping district and it's just a short walk or streetcar ride from the downtown Portland area. In the Pearl District, historic industrial buildings have been changed into various restaurants, retail stores, art galleries, and spas in. After shopping, relax at one of the quaint sidewalk cafés or enjoy the fountains in Jamison Square Park. Shoppers will be glad to know that the more than 100 city blocks of shops, restaurants and galleries are open seven days a week, year-round.
The Portland Oregon area is home to many restaurants, but what sets it apart is their uniqueness. Portland is known as one of the best beer cities in the world, so it's no wonder some of their restaurants are also breweries. The McMenamins chain is at the forefront of a unique dining experiencing. Pioneering the 'pub theater', McMenamins makes it a point to have a great time, whilst enjoying some local brews. Customers can catch a cult flick or a relatively new release at either one of their locations.
Those looking for a more refined dining experience should definitely visit Genoa, which was highly rated in a Zagat survey for food and service. This Italian restaurant has no menu, but the waiter will gladly read you that evening's menu offerings at the beginning of the meal. Those looking for seafood should check out the waterfront location Salty's Grill. Salty's serves Northwest cuisine and its prime waterfront views of the Columbia River are something to behold. Once you're finished eating a delicious meal, it's time to work off those calories by engaging in some of Portland's outdoor activities.
 The Oregon Zoo allows you to venture through different lands, all the while not leaving Portland! Located only 5 minutes from the downtown Portland area, the Oregon Zoo is something that the entire family can enjoy. One of the more popular features of this zoo is its African Rain Forest exhibit. Here you can travel through tropical areas surrounded by the sounds of birds, monkeys and other creatures. Be sure to check out the savanna area to gaze upon the giraffes, rhinos, and hippo. To cool off, be sure to visit the tundra of Alaska to see musk oxen, wolves, grizzlies, and owls adapt to the cold climate. Looking for a quieter excursion? Look no further than The Grotto.
 The Grotto is a serene oasis in the middle of the city, and is located among 62 acres of botanical gardens. The Grotto is a renowned Catholic sanctuary, and it offers a place of peace and quiet reflection. Visitors here will experience the sights of over 100 beautiful statues and shrines nestled among flower-lined pathways. Towering above the pathways are large fir trees. Visitors will also enjoy the peaceful reflection ponds, and spectacular cliffside vistas.
In November, Portland is a popular city for fall foliage lovers. The city offers several fall foliage drives and hikes in or near the metropolitan area. Many people enjoy the beautiful drive that the Columbia River Highway offers. The fall foliage along this route is so well known that many commercials are filmed here. The highway scenery consists of a background featuring maples and cottonwoods. However, it's not just the leaves that are great to look at, the road alone is beautiful. Featuring ornate stonework it follows the Columbia River as it cuts a steep canyon through the Cascade Mountains to allow for great views of including cliffs and waterfalls.
Portland, Oregon is a beautiful city that features attractions that everyone can enjoy. From great shopping and deliciously unique restaurants to exotic animals and serene gardens your visit to Portland, Oregon will be a pleasant one.
For Portland, Oregon hotel rates begin your search here or you can read more about the Portland, Oregon area and look for hotel rates at the Best Western Hotels of Oregon website. To receive more Portland, Oregon information or to read more about Portland, Oregon attractions and to look for visitor guides visit the Portland, Oregon Tourism site at www.travelportland.com.
|
|
