It appears that Portland is still experiencing its renaissance. In recent years, sleepy Portland has awakened; neighborhoods that were once unseemly are bustling; the restaurant and dining scene is one of the best in the country; and its relaxed pace of life - often depicted on television's “Portlandia” - has become a source of envy for many. A short 2.5 hour drive from Seattle, Portland, Oregon is the perfect getaway destination; a place where you can escape from the familiar, while also experience the creature comforts indicative of the Pacific Northwest. If you haven’t been lately, check out Portland’s historic West End. Just south of the Pearl District and adjacent to downtown, the West End is home to great hotels, fabulous restaurants, and lovely boutiques. Especially if you live in Seattle, a Portland getaway is calling your name.
SLEEP
Sentinel Hotel: The historic Sentinel Hotel, recently remodeled and rebranded, is the best place to stay in the West End. Guest rooms are being remodeled top down, so be sure to request top floor accommodations. If you are lucky enough to get a terrace room on a clear day, you can enjoy the city view while warming up next to your personal fire pit. Be sure to grab a drink or two at Jackknife, the beautiful wood paneled bar adjacent to the lobby.
Ace Hotel: Ever the mainstay for budget travelers and hipsters, the Ace Hotel was one of the first brands to grace the West End. Home to Stumptown Coffee and Clyde Common restaurant, it’s a great home base no matter what kind of traveler you are.
EAT / DRINK
Maurice: An exquisite pastry shop on Oak Street. Make a quick stop for something sweet, or linger for a delicious savory lunch.
Blue Star Donuts: This place really doesn't need much of a description. They are delicious. Go.
Little Bird Bistro: Technically just beyond the West End, Little Bird Bistro is the younger sibling of James Beard award winning Le Pigeon. If you enjoy french fare in an intimate, dimly lit setting, Little Bird Bistro should not be missed.
Bamboo Sushi SW: Great sushi in the heart of the West End. Fun spot for lunch or dinner with amazing signature rolls like the Green Machine!
Multnomah Whiskey Library: If you happen to know someone in the know, this members only bar is the neighborhood hot spot for a cocktail.
SHOP
Odessa: Small boutique carrying a nice selection of Isabel Marant and vintage denim.
Alder & Co: Great shop that has a little bit of everything. Think gifts, clothing, jewelry and home decor. Much of what they sell is locally made and expertly sourced.
WM Goods: Lovely selection of apothecary and home goods, many from local artists and designers. Clothing selection represents a nice mix of indie labels, such as No. 6, M.i.h., Nili Lotan and Jenni Kayne.
Frances May: Men’s and women’s clothing boutique featuring designer labels such as Acne, Nomia, A.P.C., A Piece Apart, Rachel Comey, Raquel Allegra and more.
Powell's Books: Just beyond the West End (by a short block), Powell's Books is a must visit on any trip to Portland.
ON THE SIDE
Portland Farmers Market: Every Saturday the Portland Farmers Market takes over the park blocks near Portland State University. One of the best farmers market I have ever been to, you can get pretty much get anything here. Depending on the season, my favorite things to buy at the market include artichokes, berries, mushrooms, tomatoes, and peaches. In late spring, you can often buy beautiful peonies in shades of color that you don’t normally see.
Portland Art Museum: The Portland Art Museum, while small, has a lovely permanent collection and is often selected to showcase excellent rotating exhibitions.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): If you are in Portland with your kids and it is raining, take them to OMSI, they will love it. Get there early before it gets crowded.
International Rose Test Garden (Portland Rose Garden): Portland is unofficially the City of Roses, so naturally, the city is home to a spectacular Rose Garden. If it is a sunny day and you have a hour to kill, it’s worth checking out.
DETAILS
Oregon has no sales tax, so you automatically save when you spend!
Take the train! You don't need a car to navigate Portland.
LOCALE
Whats to Come:
Troncones, Mexico ★ 05.16
read. share. travel. repeat.
W A N D E R L U S T