Whether you're visiting for a weekend or settling into the city as a newcomer, there's so much to explore in our small, quarky (sorry, “weird”) city. Here's your ultimate guide to making the most of Portland.

By the way, we recently contributed to an article by Redfin comparing Portland vs Seattle.

Obviously Portland is better. Way better.

Exploring Portland’s Neighborhoods

Portland’s charm lies in its diverse and distinct neighborhoods, each offering something unique:

• Pearl District: A blend of industrial past and modern chic, the Pearl District is home to galleries, boutique shops, and iconic spots like Powell's City of Books.
• Slabtown: Nestled near the Pearl District, Slabtown is a rapidly evolving area blending old Portland charm with modern development. It’s home to chic eateries, craft breweries, and unique shops, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic yet contemporary Portland experience.
• Hawthorne District: Known for its quirky vibe, this area is lined with vintage shops, cozy cafes, and live music venues. It’s also a hot spot for food. Some of the Portland’s hidden gems live here like our partners Cubo, Maruti, Khao Moo Dang, and the Waffle Window.
• Alberta Arts District: A hub for creatives, Alberta is famous for its murals, the Last Thursday art walk (Alberta Main Street), and eclectic dining options.
• Sellwood-Moreland: Perfect for families, this area offers antique shops, parks, and scenic Willamette River views. It’s also a growing spot for new bars and restaurants. Check out Smitty’s Taphouse and order from our friends next door at Reverend’s BBQ while you enjoy your brewski.

The Food Scene

Portland’s culinary reputation is legendary, with a focus on farm-to-table dining, global influences, and a thriving food cart culture. Whether you’re a foodie or simply hungry, the city has something for everyone. Below are some standout categories and a few highlights from our Spork Bytes restaurant partners:

• Breakfast and Brunch: Start your day at spots like Jam on Hawthorne or Pine State Biscuits for breakfast sammies that are so big you can hardly take a bite. The jaw pain is worth it, trust us.

• Food Carts: Head to pods like Cartopia or the Hawthorne Asylum (Hawthorne Asylum) to sample everything from Korean bibimbap to authentic Venezuelan arepas.

  Spork Favorites: Explore offerings from some of our Spork Bytes partners:

  • Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen: Known for their flavorful pho and banh mi sandwiches (Luc Lac). They stay open late, and their counter service makes for a quick visit.
  • Tamale Boy: Showcasing the rich flavors of Oaxacan cuisine (Tamale Boy). They've teamed up with Second Profession Brewing to serve delicious local microbrews with Portland's most famous tamales.
  • Laurelhurst Market: A celebrated steakhouse and butcher shop offering mouthwatering meats and upscale dining (Laurelhurst Market). We serve their sandwiches, which can be found when you visit for lunch. Try they Turkey Bacon or the #3.
  • Lechon: Specializing in South American-inspired dishes with bold, vibrant flavors, Lechon has one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city. We highly recommend it for a date night or fancy dinner.

Portland’s proximity to nature is one of its greatest assets. Within city limits, you can explore:

• Forest Park: One of the largest urban forests in the U.S., offering miles of hiking trails (Forest Park Conservancy).
• Washington Park: Home to the Portland Japanese Garden and Oregon Zoo.
• Tom McCall Waterfront Park: A scenic spot along the Willamette River, perfect for walking or biking. A visit here in the springtime to see the cherry blossom trees is an absolute must.

For day trips, consider the Columbia River Gorge for stunning waterfalls or Mount Hood for skiing and snowboarding.

Arts and Culture

Portland has a thriving arts scene. Don’t miss:

• Portland Art Museum: Showcasing diverse collections and rotating exhibitions (Portland Art Museum).
• Live Music: Venues like the Crystal Ballroom and Doug Fir Lounge
• Theater: Catch a show at the Portland Center Stage at the Armory.

Tips for Newcomers

1. Getting Around: Portland’s public transit system, TriMet, is efficient and includes buses, light rail, and streetcars.
2. Sustainability: Bring your reusable bags; Portland is big on reducing waste. Don’t have one? Don’t worry, every store will have a reusable bag for you to purchase, and it might make a great souvenir!
3. Weather: Pack layers and a good rain jacket—rain is a frequent companion here and you'll stick out like a sore thumb if you use an umbrella.
4. Community: Engage in local events and farmers markets, such as the Milwaukie Farmers Market, to connect with the community.

Portland has a way of capturing the hearts of those who visit or call it home. From its eclectic neighborhoods to its incredible food and outdoor adventures, the city truly offers something for everyone. So grab a coffee from a local roaster, dive into the food scene, and let the weirdness of Portland charm you.

Check out the great Portland restaurants we serve here: Spork Bytes.

• Phone - (503) 821-7709
• Email - hellopdx@sporkbytes.com
• Office - 777 NE 7th Ave, Portland, OR 97232
• Google My Business - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JEZJbAY4dLBoXFwk8