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Local Attractions

A list of sightseeing locations in and around Portland, Oregon is provided below. For additional visitor information, visit travelportland.com/visitors/.

Local Events in or near Portland

Annual Seaside Fireworks Display Street Fair
July 4, 2008. Seaside is approximately 1½ hour drive from Portland.

Oregon Bach Festival
July 2008. Since 1970, the Oregon Bach Festival celebrates the music and legacy of J.S. Bach in an unequalled environment of performance, discovery, and community, in the refreshing early summer of the Pacific Northwest. Perhaps the most expansive and critically acclaimed platform for Bach’s music in America, the Festival forges connections between people through a love of great music. Meet the key people who make it happen, and read the story of how the OBF came to be.
Additional Information: www.oregonbachfestival.com

Waterfront Blues Festival
July 3 – 6, 2008. Join blues fans from throughout the world at the 2008 Safeway Waterfront Blues Festival, presented by First Tech Credit Union, July 3 to 6, 2008, on the banks of the Willamette River at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The 2008 festival will feature more than 120 performances on five stages.
Additional Information: www.waterfrontbluesfest.com

Local Attractions

The Pearl District

The Pearl District
Historic industrial buildings have been transformed into hip retail storefronts, restaurants, galleries, lofts and spas in Portland's premier shopping district. The Pearl District is a nationally renowned destination for fine dining, more than 60 home furnishings stores, and art and one-of-a-kind boutiques. After shopping, relax at one of our picturesque sidewalk cafés or enjoy the fountains in Jamison Square Park. More than 100 city blocks of shops, restaurants and galleries are open seven days a week, year-round. Easily accessible, The Pearl District is only a short walk or streetcar ride from downtown Portland; accessible via US-26/I-405 (Exit 2B) and the Burnside, Broadway and Steel Bridges.

Willamette Valley Wine Tours
The Willamette Valley, Oregon's leading wine region has two-thirds of the state's wineries and vineyards and is home to more than 200 wineries. It has been recognized as one of the premier Pinot noir producing areas in the world. The Willamette Valley is a huge and varied appellation that includes six sub-appellations; Chehalem Mountains, Dundee Hills, Eola-Amity Hills, McMinnville, Ribbon Ridge, and Yamhill Carlton.
Additional Information: willamettewines.com

Portland Saturday Market

Portland Saturday Market
Located 1.5 miles from the Doubletree. Stroll down row upon row of local handcrafted items and homemade foods. The Portland Saturday Market-open Sundays too-is the nation's largest open-air crafts market. Talk directly to the artists and learn about their creative styles and products. Rain or shine, the market is open Saturday (10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) from March through Christmas Eve. Portland Saturday Market is located in Portland's historic Old Town. Take the MAX to the Skidmore Fountain stop. Make a $25 purchase and receive a free TriMet ticket or a two hour parking validation at any Smart Park garage.
Location: S.W. Ankeny & Naito Parkway
Phone: 503.222.6072
Additional information: www.PortlandSaturdayMarket.com

Museum of Contemporary Craft

Museum of Contemporary Craft
Located 1.4 miles from the Doubletree. Since 1937, the Museum of Contemporary Craft has been a hub where people connect creatively, professionally and socially through craft. With its important collection, dynamic exhibitions, thoughtful publications, provocative programs and events, and access to exceptional objects that one can purchase and take home from the Gallery, the Museum promises to revitalize your relationship to craft. Here, the public is welcome to engage in a museum experience that offers multiple pathways to explore excellence in contemporary craft, inspiring an ongoing conversation in which the expert, novice and curious visitor can all participate. Admission to the museum is free. Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
Location: 724 N.W. Davis Street
Phone: 503.223.2654
Additional information: www.contemporarycrafts.org

Portland Spirit

Portland Spirit
Located 2.58 miles from the Doubletree. The Portland Spirit welcomes you aboard the Northwest's premier dining ship. Daily lunch and dinner cruises offer a perfect opportunity to surround yourself with unmatched views of the Portland skyline.
Location: 110 S.E. Caruthers Street
Phone: 503.224.3900 | 800.224.3901
Additional information: www.portlandspirit.com

International Rose Test Garden

International Rose Test Garden
Located 3.65 miles from the Doubletree. Visit one of the largest and oldest rose test gardens in the country - for free. The International Rose Test Garden, just minutes from downtown Portland in Washington Park, has 7,000 rose bushes, spectacular views of the city and an onsite Rose Garden Gift Shop (call for hours). The garden is open daily, 7:00 a.m. to 9: p.m. During summer, visit in the early evening when it's cooler and less crowded. Additionally, Peninsula Park Rose Garden has 6,500 rose plantings and is located in North Portland; and Ladd's Addition Garden, which features 3,000 roses, sits in the historic Southeast Portland neighborhood of the same name.
Location: Washington Park | 400 S.W. Kingston Avenue
Phone: 503.823.3636
Additional information: www.portlandparks.org/gardens/introsetestgarden.htm

The Grotto

The Grotto
Located 6.34 miles from the Doubletree. A peaceful oasis in the midst of the city, The Grotto is set among 62 acres of botanical gardens. As an internationally renowned Catholic sanctuary, The Grotto offers a place of peace and quiet reflection for all people. More than 100 beautifully sculpted statues and shrines are nestled among flower-lined pathways winding under towering firs. Peaceful reflection ponds, spectacular cliff side vistas and award-winning architecture offer inspiration for all who visit this natural gallery in the woods. Gardens are open daily and pen year-round; hours vary.
Location: Sandy Boulevard at N.E. 85th Avenue
Phone: 503.254.7371
Additional information: www.thegrotto.org

Lloyd Center Ice Rink
Located 0.05 miles from the Doubletree. Enjoy indoor ice skating at the Lloyd Center Ice Rink, located in Oregon's largest mall. The ice rink is a fun place to skate and build memories. Those who don't skate can shop tax-free at the mall's 200 stores or enjoy a meal in the food court, which overlooks the rink. On Friday and Saturday nights, 7:30-10:00 p.m., the rink offers "Rock and Skate," featuring a live DJ ($6 per person, including skate rental). Lloyd Center is located in "Fareless Square," making it easily accessible by MAX light rail. Public skating every day; call for times.
Location: Inside Lloyd Center Mall, Lower Level
N.E. Ninth Avenue at Multnomah Street
Phone: 503.288.6073
Additional information: www.lloydcenterice.com

Portland Classical Chinese Garden

Portland Classical Chinese Garden
Located 1.15 miles from the Doubletree. Transport yourself to ancient China as you enter Lan Su Yuan. The Portland Classical Chinese Garden is a harmonizing blend of water, architecture, stone and poetry set against a richly planted landscape. Overlooking the lake, the Tao of Tea teahouse features more than 35 teas and Chinese snacks. The garden is open April-October, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Location: Northwest Third Avenue at Everett Street
Phone: 503.228.8131
Additional information: www.portlandchinesegarden.org

Oregon Historical Society

Oregon Historical Society
Located 2.16 miles from the Doubletree. In the heart of Portland's Cultural District, the Oregon Historical Society houses treasures of the Northwest, a priceless collection that tells the story of Oregon from its earliest people to the present day. Visit the interactive exhibit, Oregon My Oregon, see exquisite paintings in Oregon Art and learn about the Battleship Oregon in the Hayes Maritime Gallery. Exhibits are designed for visitors of all ages, with artwork, artifacts, photographs, audio/visual presentations and hands-on displays for children. The Oregon Historical Society Museum Store is Portland's premier spot for distinctive Northwest gifts, including jewelry, artwork, books and games.
Location: 1200 S.W. Park Avenue
Phone: 503.222.1741
Additional information: www.ohs.org

Portland Art Museum

Portland Art Museum
Located 2.10 miles from the Doubletree. Find out why the oldest museum in the Northwest, the Portland Art Museum, is internationally renowned for exciting art experiences. Located in the heart of downtown's cultural district, the Museum's campus includes an outdoor sculpture court and historical interiors. Tour the world and travel through history in magnificent permanent collection galleries, six stories of modern art and special exhibitions.
Location: 1219 S.W. Park Avenue
Phone: 503.226.2811
Additional information: www.portlandartmuseum.org

Pittock Mansion

Pittock Mansion
Located 4.29 miles from the Doubletree. Experience the charm of a lost era as you learn about Henry and Georgiana Pittock and the beautiful estate that symbolizes the growth of Portland. Admire remarkable antique furnishings and fine arts set in a 1914 National Historic Register property. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a sweeping view of mountains, rivers and the city. The mansion is located five minutes from downtown Portland off West Burnside Street. Open daily: June-August, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission charged.
Location: 3229 N.W. Pittock Drive
Phone: 503.823.3623
Additional information: www.pittockmansion.org

Portland Japanese Garden

Portland Japanese Garden
Located 3.8 miles from the Doubletree. Nestled in the scenic west hills of Portland, the Japanese Garden is a haven of tranquil beauty which has been proclaimed one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. Encompassing five and one-half acres and offering five separate garden styles, the Garden includes an authentic Japanese Tea House, meandering streams, intimate walkways, and an unsurpassed view of Mt. Hood. Open daily, April 1-Sept. 30, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Open Mondays at noon.
Location: Washington Park Portland
Phone: Information 503.223.1321
Additional information: www.japanesegarden.com

World Forestry Center Discovery Museum
Location 5.65 miles from the Doubletree. All new hands-on, interactive exhibits that are fun for the whole family are waiting to be explored at the Discovery Museum. You can get harnessed in and hoisted up 45 feet to see a bird's-eye-view of the forest, or take a wet-free raft ride in Class IV rapids. Climb underneath the forest to see the life below, or try your smoke jumping skills! Round out your adventure with video journeys to Siberia, China, South Africa and Brazil to learn about trees of the world. Come explore, discover and grow at the Discovery Museum! Museum and gift store open daily, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Five minutes from downtown Portland by Hwy. 26 or MAX light rail.
Location: Washington Park -- 4033 S.W. Canyon Road
Phone: 503.228.1367
Additional information: www.worldforestry.org

Portland Children's Museum
Located 5.63 miles from the Doubletree. Visit Portland Children's Museum and let your creativity run wild with hands-on exhibits and art studios for children and their families. Dig into the fun in the Dig Pit. Tile a roof or landscape a garden in Building Bridgetown. Make a Splash in Water Works. Enjoy a live performance or sculpt a unique creation from clay. Paint your face, put on a costume and take center stage! Open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Washington Park -- 4015 S.W. Canyon Road
Phone: 503.223.6500
Additional information: www.portlandchildrensmuseum.org

Oregon Zoo

Oregon Zoo
Located 5.64 miles from the Doubletree. Trek through the tropics amid the sounds of birds, monkeys and other creatures. You're not in West Africa; you're in Portland at the zoo's African Rain Forest exhibit. After you've survived the steamy tropics, dry off in the savanna, where giraffes, rhinos and hippos graze. From the tundras of Alaska to the coastal waters of Peru, you can travel around the world in an afternoon. Open daily at 9:00 a.m.; closing hours are seasonal. Admission charged; children two and younger free. Five minutes from downtown on Hwy. 26 West, or take MAX light rail.
Location: Washington Park -- 4001 S.W. Canyon Road
Phone: 503.226.1561
Additional information: www.oregonzoo.org

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
Located 2.20 miles from the Doubletree. Imagine a place where you can journey to the outer reaches of the galaxy, feel the power of an earthquake, climb aboard a real submarine, uncover a fossil, enter the world of virtual reality, or travel the globe in a five-story high IMAX® domed theater. You also can enjoy a view of the city while dining at the OMSI Market Café or find the perfect gift at the Science Store. With more than 200 hands-on exhibits, there is something for everyone in the family. Touch, explore, question and discover at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), located on Portland's waterfront. Open year-round; hours vary.
Location: 1945 S.E. Water Avenue
Phone: 503.797.4000
Additional information: www.omsi.edu

Historic Oregon City/End of the Oregon Trail

Historic Oregon City/End of the Oregon Trail
Located 17.5 miles from the Doubletree. Experience the adventure of the 2,000-mile Oregon Trail odyssey at the End of the Oregon Trail Center, gateway to the Historic Oregon City experience. Living history storytellers, the "Bound for Oregon" digital experience and exhibits bring the founding of Oregon to life. Ride a sternwheeler to mighty Willamette Falls, view native rock carvings, historic houses and take a trolley ride. Some activities are seasonal, please check their Web site. Admission is charged. Take I-205, Exit 10.
Location: 1726 Washington Street, Oregon City, OR 97045
Phone: 503.657.9336 x114
Additional information: www.HistoricOregonCity.com

Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum and The Captain Michael King Smith Educational Institute History
Dreams of flight have captured the imaginations of children and adults alike for centuries. Captain Michael King Smith had a fascination with flight that began in childhood and continued throughout his short life. Captain Smith’s fierce dedication and passion for flying led to his dream of an aviation museum unlike any other – a living museum that celebrates aviation’s rich history, honors the patriotic service of our veterans and offers enlightening educational programs in aviation. The Museums are open every day, including weekends, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: 500 NE Captain Michael King Smith Way, McMinnville, Oregon 97128
Phone: 503-434-4180
Additional Information: www.sprucegoose.org

Regional Areas of Interest

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Columbia River Gorge is a popular recreation area 16 miles east of Portland, Oregon. The area offers outdoor activities including hiking, biking, golf, whitewater rafting & kayaking, windsurfing & kiting. Events include a weekly wine tasting, summer concert series, theater productions, and 4th of July festivities.
Additional Information: www.crgva.org

Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is the second-tallest year-round waterfall in the nation. The water of the Falls drops 620 feet from its origin on Larch Mountain. The falls are about 45 minutes east of Portland near Bridal Veil and Benson State Park.
Additional Information:  http://trips.stateoforegon.com/multnomah_falls

Beacon Rock
Beacon Rock is about 1 hour east of Portland along the Columbia River. Beacon Rock is the core of an ancient volcano. The mile-long trail to its summit provides outstanding panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Additional Information:  http://www.parks.wa.gov/parkpage.asp?selectedpark=Beacon%20Rock

Bridge of the Gods
Not far from Multnomah Falls is Bridge of the Gods.  It is a a steel truss cantilever bridge that spans the Columbia River between Cascade Locks, Oregon and Washington state near Stevenson. The Port of Cascade Locks charges a $1 toll for cars to cross the bridge. Additional Information: http://www.portofcascadelocks.org/bridge.htm

Crown Point:  Vista House Museum and Overlook
The Vista House was built in 1916 as a place to enjoy the scenic Columbia Gorge. The building now houses a museum, gift shop, and display of historic and geologic points of interest in the Gorge. Vista House is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm in the summer. Additional Information: http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_150.php

Bonneville Dam
Bonneville Dam is located 40 miles east of Portland in the Columbig River Gorge, where it functions as a hydroelectric power generator and includes lochs for river navigation. The dam features fish ladders to help salmon traverse the dam on their journey upstream to spawn. Admission to the visitor’s center is free. Additional information:  https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/op/b/tours.asp

Timberline Lodge at Mount Hood
Timberline Lodge features summer downhill skiing and snowboarding, as well as hiking and great views of the dormant volcano. Scenes from the movie “The Shining” were filmed using the exterior of the Timberline Lodge. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-547-1406. Timberline Lodge is about a 1.5 hour drive from Portland.

Oregon Beaches
Oregon’s coastal beach towns, Seaside and Cannon Beach, are play in the sand and surf favorites.  Explore tidal pools, build sand sculptures, and walk along the seashore. Both towns are approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Portland. Additional Information:  www.cannon-beach.net and www.seasideor.com  

Astoria
Astoria, Oregon is the place to go for history. Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is about 2 hours northwest of Portland. Visit the Fort Clatsop museum where Lewis and Clarke overwintered after reaching the west coast. Fort Stevens State Park includes the historic Civil War-era fort that guarded the mouth of the Columbia River. Learn its history, explore abandoned gun batteries, hike nature trails, and visit Oregon beaches and lakes. Pick up a guide at the Astoria Chamber for $2 to learn about films shot on location in Astoria, which include Goonies, Short Circuit, Kindergarten Cop, and others.
Additional Information: www.oldoregon.com

Tillamook
West of Portland 2 hours is Tillamook, home of the best cheese in the Pacific NW. Tour the famous cheese factory and taste their award-winning cheeses and more than 30 flavors of ice cream.). Visit the Tillamook Air Museum housed in a World War II era blimp hanger.