3 Free Things to Do Outdoors in Portland

Now that the weather is warming up, it’s the perfect opportunity to make the most of the gorgeous city of Portland. When you don’t feel like spending a ton, but you still want to have some outdoor fun, check out this list of three free things you can do in Portland.
Forest Park

For all of the hikers and bikers, Forest Park is the nation’s largest urban wilderness and it’s waiting for you to explore its 5,000-acre nature wonderland. If you’re in the mood for some relaxation in a quiet woodland area, Forest Park is going to impress you.

The Grotto
This 62-acre Catholic sanctuary is worth checking out, simply because it’s one of Portland’s oldest and most iconic tourist attractions. Visitors can stroll through the woods all while experiencing an outdoor art gallery.

Hoyt Arboretum
If nature is your thing, you’ll love the more than 1,000 species of trees as well as the variety of plants from all seven continents. There are even over 12 miles of trails for your nature-loving heart to explore!

Local Outdoor Attractions Near Your Portland Apartment

You don’t need us to tell you that you live in one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. That’s why we’ve put together a few of some of the top outdoor attractions near your apartment. Now that the weather is warming up, be sure to check out these amazing outdoor locations that are sure to impress. If you didn’t have any plans this weekend, you sure do now!

South Park Blocks

SW Park Avenue, Portland, OR 97204

Extending down from city park into beautiful downtown Portland, you’ll find South Park Blocks. Known as Portland’s “living room,” this outdoor park features historic sculptures and incredible plant life.

Leach Botanical Garden

6704 SE 122nd Avenue, Portland, OR 97236

If you love the beauty of the natural world, especially one-of-a-kind gardens, then head to Leach Botanical Garden where you’ll find a 16-acre sprawling outdoor nature park that features over 2,000 different plant species.

Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Portland

For some of us, breakfast is the be all and end all. What’s not to love? From waffles to mimosas to scrambled eggs, breakfast can be one of the most delicious parts of the day. Luckily, Portland has some incredible places to grab a bite to eat. We put together a few of our favorites. From the best drinks to crispiest waffles, here are a few restaurants to check out soon.

 

For the Best Bloody Mary’s

If you love your breakfast drinks then, Cafe Broder is the place to be. This Swedish restaurant is known for their top-notch brunch menu, but their Bloody Mary’s alone are worth the trip.

2508 SE Clinton Street, Portland, OR 97202

 

For Delicious Waffles

When you really just want waffles, no restaurant does it better than The Waffle Window. Imagine savory and sweet Belgian-style waffles with a caramelized crispy coating. Are you hungry yet?

3610 SE Hawthorne Boulevard, Portland, OR 97214

Stunning Hikes Near Your Portland Apartment

There’s a lot of things to love about Portland and the hiking trails are certainly one of them. We’ve put together some of the best hiking trails near your apartment that are sure to make the perfect outdoor excursion the next time you want to try something new.

Opal Pool-Cedar Flats Hike

This water-level hike is open year-round and is only a 120 minute drive from your apartment. You’ll be able to explore some of the trails near an old mining town located in an ancient grove of cedars.

Cooper Spur Hike

A 120 minute drive will allow you to spend the day hiking to Mount Hood’s highest trail hike. You’ll discover beautiful views of the Eliot Glacier and over 6.4 miles of gorgeous views.

Dog Mountain Hike

This trail will soon be open in March, so be sure to mark your calendars. A 75 minute drive will take you to a popular trail that features incredible wildflower displays!

Here’s Where to Have Your Valentine’s Day Brunch

Here in Portland, people really care about their brunch. What’s not to love? When you gather around your loved ones for amazing food and delicious drinks in such a spectacular city, it’s not hard to see why. Why not put a Valentine’s Day brunch on the calendar this February 14? Here is one brunch hotspot that will help you do just that. If you didn’t have plans for the Big Heart Day, you sure do now.

 

Look no further than Salty’s Waterfront Seafood Grill. You’ll find everything you’re looking for and more during this month of love. Seriously, with waterfront views overlooking the Columbia River, it really doesn’t get much more romantic than this. Be sure to check out their special menu as well as make a reservation. Brunch not so much your thing? They’re also serving up a special dinner so be sure to mark your calendar for whatever works best for you and your sweetheart.

Where to Watch the Super Bowl This Year in Portland

It’s okay if you’re in it just for the halftime show. It’s okay if you’re in it just for the commercials. When it comes to the Super Bowl, everyone has their reasons for showing up on game day. Make your Sunday Super Bowl festivities that much better by heading to one of these Portland hotspots.

 

Aladdin Theater is hosting one of the biggest watch parties in all of Portland. Located at 3017 SE Milwaukie Avenue, this watch party event is absolutely free. Enjoy $4 drafts and pizza offering throughout the evening. Doors open at 2:30 pm.

 

The Goodfoot Lounge is projecting the big game on a 14-foot HD Projection Screen, so really, what more can you ask for? There’s even exceptional food and drink options to make sure your tummy stays satisfied all evening long. The Goodfoot Lounge is located at SE 29th & Shark. Doors open at 3:00 pm.

Go Here for Your Next Night Out in Portland

From hipster bars to swanky dance clubs, Portland seriously has it all. Looking to have a fun karaoke night? You’ll find it here. How about a delicious cocktail at a fancy hotspot? You’ll find that and so much more. Looks like it’s time to grab your pals for a night on the town.

 

Holocene | 1001 SE Morrison Street, Portland, OR 97214

When you’re ready to hit the dance floor, then take your pals out to Holocene, a premier dance club unlike any other. With two levels, live bands, DJs, techno music, and more, you won’t find a better dance party in Portland.

 

Dirty Night Club | 35 NW 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97209

Ready for a night out like you’ve never experienced before? Dirty Night Club is ready to give you a night you won’t soon forget. Dance under floor-to-ceiling colored lights and sip on delicious drinks from a full bar.

Grab Your Ugly Holiday Sweater this Weekend

There are plenty of amazing events in Portland, but if you’re looking for something fun and exciting to do this weekend, you’re going to love what EastBurn has in store for you. Get into the holiday spirit by heading over to the annual Ugly Sweater Party at this local Portland hotspot! When it comes to ugly sweaters, trust us, the uglier, the better!

 

The EastBurn Ugly Sweater Party will take place December 17, 2016, at 10:00 pm and you can purchase your tickets, which are only $5, at the door. Make sure to leave the little ones at home with the babysitter as this is a 21 and up event.

 

You’ll have the entire night to spend dancing around in an ugly sweater, hanging out with some really cool Portland folks, and enjoying delicious drinks and food at EastBurn. Featuring a lineup of musicians, you’ll even have the chance to dance the night away.

Dining out in Portland on a Budget

Image result for luc lac portland

Sometimes you just want delicious food without spending a ton of money. Luckily, dining on a budget doesn’t mean you have skip out on a great dinner, especially when you live in Portland. The next time you make dinner plans, be sure to check out one of these amazing budget-friendly restaurants near your apartment.

 

Enat Kitchen  | website

This casual hotspot in Portland serves some of the best Ethiopian food in town. Offering classic Ethiopian fare as well as a lunch buffet, this is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat without breaking the bank. There are plenty of vegetarian options as well.

 

Luc Lac | website

When you’re in the mood for Vietnamese cooking, this should be your next destination. Offering pho, banh mi, and other Vietnamese favorites, you’re sure to find authentic cooking here. You’ll also find great cocktails and happy hour specials that will keep you coming back for more.

Top Holiday Attractions in Portland

Image result for holiday ale festival portland

When you live in Portland, you can be sure that there is always a lineup of fun things to do. Looking for the best holiday attractions this holiday season? Grab your pals and mark your calendars because here are a few places you definitely need to add to your list.

 

Oregon Ballet Theatre

One of the top-rated ballet companies in the region and the nation, the Oregon Ballet Theatre is the perfect location for getting into the spirit of the holidays. Head out to see holiday classics like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. For ticket and venue information, go here.

 

Holiday Ale Festival

This is a Portland holiday tradition and it’s one you need to see to believe. This annual outdoor event will take place from December 2 through December 6 from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Dress warm as temperatures will most likely be on the chilly side.