Discovered by Lewis and Clark in 1806, Portland is now home to more than two million people. With its beautiful views, outdoor activities, and charm, it is easy to see why so many people call this city home!
Appreciation of historical sites and constant attention to the preservation of landmarks has made Portland a popular historical destination for tourists. It has become an active seaport and maritime museums and historical homes abound.
The Portland area offers accommodations that are near to outdoor activities, recreation and events, while the Greater Portland area provides rentals that are close to amusement parks, beaches and the area mountains. A visitor will be able to choose accommodation that fits their budget, vacation and style.
Top Attractions in Portland, OR
If you're looking for something totally relaxing, head to the Portland Japanese Garden. It's located just minutes from downtown, but you'd never know it! The Japanese Garden is a meticulously cared for sanctuary. Visitors can take pleasure in their Sand and Stone Garden, Tea Garden, Strolling Pond Garden, and Heavenly Falls. Inside, you will find all sorts of breathtaking flowers and trees. There are even koi swimming around, so you'll really feel like you're in Japan!
For a taste of Portland's history, check out the Pittock Mansion. Home to one of the city's most successful entrepreneurs at the turn of the century, this enormous mansion will give you a great look at what elegant life was like back then. As an added benefit, the mansion lies on top of a hill, so once you're there, you will have an amazing view of the city!
Willowbrook Village is a restored 19th century country village that is comprised of a millpond, grandstand, reproduction schoolhouse and two historic barns with houses.
Splashtown USA is found at Funtown USA and offers the latest in water-park technology with more than 45 rides, pools and slides.
If you want tons of fun, go to Jantzen Beach. Dubbed the “Coney Island of the West", Jantzen Beach offers thrill rides, a fun house, and merry-go-rounds.
About 30 minutes east of Portland, you will find Gresham. Here, you will experience a much slower pace - in addition to plenty of golf courses and even a smaller, quieter amusement park.
Eating Out
There is as diverse array of restaurants in the Greater Portland area. The Casco Bay region offers vegetarian to fresh seafood, picnic tables to elegant, and from traditional New England to creative fare. Maine serves fresh lobster at any of their seaside restaurants. Local restaurants also create their own seasonal brew right on their premises. There are also traditional bakeries and coffeehouses in the city. Nightlife could include walking around the streets of Old Port and visiting original alehouses and waterfront pubs.
Portland Hotels
Because the city has grown so much, you will have your choice of Portland hotels. Portland, OR accommodation offers many characteristic amenities, while the regional bed and breakfasts and inns offer weekend trips and romantic getaways to the coastline. The area's diverse accommodation options include motels and hotels, full service resorts, homes for rental, and facilities for events, conventions and meetings. You can stay along the banks of the Willamette or Columbia Rivers, or you can stay in the trendy downtown area. Whether a visitor prefers a resort at the coastline or an urban setting that is closer to downtown, cheap hotels in Portland, OR can also be found.