Travel article: Visiting Portland

Known for its laid back nature and willingness to embrace the outdoors, Portland is a calm place to visit for those who like to experience something different. With its various parks and growing metropolitan scene, it’s a place for people of all interests to come and relax. It’s a city that’s similar to Austin Texas or Seattle Washington but with a more mature and easy going feel. To really see the city it would be best to have some kind of SUV so that you can bring things with you as you’re exploring all the surrounding areas. Here’s a few things to seek out if you find yourself interesting in having a visit.

Washington Park

In total, Washington park covers an area of more than 410 acres. You could easily spend a few hours there so be sure to pack up your car with plenty of supplies. It hosts a variety of happening things to do in Portland aside from being a place to observe nature. It has a zoo, various gardens, tennis courts, playgrounds and an arboretum. It prides itself in being a one stop place to visit for those looking to get their fix of the outdoors. If you like to be more active, there are around 15 miles of trails that lead to attractions around the area.

Forest Park

Forest Park is connected to Washington park but is notable enough to mention it as a separate attraction. It sprawls over 5000 acres and has 70 miles of trails. Truly massive. It would be categorized as just a natural park and with its sheer size has something for everyone looking to get their nature fix.

Pittock mansion

The Pittock Mansion was constructed in 1909 by the famous publisher Henry Pittock who was active in politics at the time. It still stands to this day and features 46 different rooms on a 46 acre piece of land. The ownership of the property was transferred to the state of Oregon in 1965 and ever since it has remained open to the public. The mansion has a an antique castle feel and sits 1000 feet above sea level which attracts bird watchers far and wide. It’s unique appearance has made it a filming location for various TV shows and films throughout the years. The home lies West of the city and stands amongst the hills there.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

For the somewhat quiet town that Portland is, it’s interesting to note that it has a Chinese sister city, Suzhou. With this comes some Chinese influence within the area that oddly complements well with the forests and natural growth in Oregon. This is mostly seen in the Lan Su Chinese Garden located somewhat centrally within the city. It is often referred to as the most authentic Chinese garden outside of China. It is walled and will really make you feel as though you’ve been transported halfway across the world. When translated into English the garden name means, “ Garden of the Awakening Orchids”. A cool name for a cool place.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park

If you’re looking for something not as isolated outdoors, the Tom McCall Waterfront Park is located more within the city than the other things listed. It spreads across a section of the Willamette River and is somewhat of a replacement to Harbor Drive. Many locals like to take advantage of this space as a place to exercise, saunter along, or just hang out. There are 5 different “zones” that serve different purposes such as having a space for concerts. One of the main gets however is when the Cherry Blossoms bloom with their white and light pink foliage. If you can make it during a time of year when that happens it’s really worth it.

Pioneer Courthouse Square “Portlands Living Room”

Finally, for something to experience within the city, head over to Pioneer Courthouse Square. It’s colloquially known as “Portland’s Living Room” by locals. It serves as a somewhat urban park for residents and visitors with architecture that is great to just sit and stare at. If you look down while walking across the bricks you’ll notice that they have names on them from people who donated to help fund the project. A grassroots effort that keeps the city lively and beautiful.

Overall Portland is a city where you’re supposed to get outside the city lines and see the nature. There is plenty to do within the city as well but the true beauty is seen where you might have to drive out a couple miles to enjoy. If you enjoy nature and some friendly people, Portland might be for you!