Winter Activities in Portland, OR

Winter is such a magical and beautiful time. You’ve just had a wonderful holiday and now it’s time to get into some nonholiday related fun. It’s plenty cold outside but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. All around town the are fun winter activities you can take part in, and even some enjoyable ones you can do at home. Winter is the perfect time to take on certain activities or start on certain crafts. If you’re not sure what to do with yourself this winter, here are some fun winter activities you can try.

Go Ice Skating

Ice skating is a wonderful winter activity that isn’t costly and is perfect for this time of year. You can check out your local indoor and outdoor ice skating rink. Bring your own skates or rent some from the rink. Skate, glide, and slide on the ice with a bunch of other people having a great time. Show your skills or simply cruise around. No matter if you’re a beginner or a professional ice skater having a good time ice skating is where you should be. Not to mention it’s a great workout.

 

New Year’s Eve in Portland, OR

This year is on it’s way out and we couldn’t be more excited. Everyone is getting geared up to bring in the new year and say goodbye to this one. There is so much promise in the new year, plenty of reflection for the year that has passed, and time is running out to make New Year’s Eve plans. Bring in the new year surrounded by loved ones and people with positive energy is always exciting. Take your New Year’s plan to the next level and enjoy all the great events happening in your city to ring in the new year. If you’re thinking of bringing in the new year in a fun and exciting way in the city, here are a few ideas.

Head to A New Year’s Eve Party

There will be tons of people, establishments, and organizations that will be hosting New Year’s Eve parties in and around the neighborhood. Some of these parties will be themed while others will want you to come just as you are. There will be plenty of food and drinks so you can enjoy yourself until the big countdown. Check out Eventbrite to see which parties are going on in your area.

Family-Friendly Fourth of July Destinations

We don’t know about you but July 4th is one of the best holidays because it’s the one night of the year when there are plenty of fireworks displays. If you’re looking for some excitement this Fourth of July, look no further.

 

Waterfront Blues Festival | .5 miles away

If you’d rather stay close to home, then this just might be the event for you. It’s a festival, which means there will be food, good music, and a ton of fireworks. Plus, it’s right along the waterfront, so the views won’t be too shabby either.

 

Oaks Park Fireworks Display | 6 miles away

Head south for a fireworks display at your local theme park! Picnic areas will be first come first serve, so be sure to arrive early and spread your blankets out for the best view. There will be extended ride and roller skating hours, which makes this one of the best family-friendly Independence Day events in the area. Fireworks will start at dusk.

Your Guide to Summer Festivals in Portland

Here are 3 ways Portland is ready to make all of your summer dreams come true.

 

Soar Over the City in June

If you’ve ever wanted to ride in a hot air balloon, then you’ll have your chance at the Festival of Balloons happening June 23-25 at Cook Park in Tigard. There will be plenty of fun though if heights aren’t really your thing. A craft show, carnival, vendors, food trucks, and even a beer garden will help keep you busy.

 

All the Beer You Ever Wanted in July

The Portland Craft Beer Festival is July 1-2 at Fields Neighborhood Park. There will be beer from over 50 Portland breweries along with wine, cider, and more! Oh, and there will be cheese. Get tickets.

 

Get a Little Saucy in August

If you like it hot (your food, that is), then you’ll love the Portland Hot Sauce Expo that’s taking place from August 5-6 at the OMSI parking lot. There will be hot and spicy food vendors, craft beers, eating contests, and more. But trust us. You’ll really want to come for the Chihuahua beauty contest that will take place at 1 pm on Saturday. Get tickets.

 

Exciting Father’s Day Activities in Portland

Wondering how to spend Father’s Day this year? Here are a few ideas!

 

Wine Weekend

Some fathers just really love their wine. If your dad is one of these people, it’s probably a good idea to take part in Wine Weekend. Wine Weekend is an exciting two-day event where over 20 different wineries participate in a celebration of all things wine. From tastings to tours, this is a really great way to spend Father’s Day weekend. There will also be live music, delicious food, and a chance to spend some quality time with Dad.

 

Father’s Day Cruise

Portland’s Spirit cruise ship might just be where you want to have your Father’s Day brunch or dinner. Not only will your dad be able to experience a five-star course, but he’ll have breathtaking views of Columbia River Gorge. Bring your camera. Bring the family. Then, see how many memories you make. Seats are filling up fast, though, so reserve your spot here.

A Festival for Your Memorial Day Weekend Plans

Do you know what your Memorial Day Weekend Plans are? If not, you can spend the weekend at the Multnomah County Fair and Art in the Park Festival which takes place from May 27-29 from Noon to 7:00 pm. It’s a great way to spend the day with your family and have some outdoor fun.

 

There will be plenty to do and see when you get there including activities like camel rides as well as a showcase of wild and rare mammals and reptiles that will delight audiences of all ages. The kids will love Professor Bamboozle and his many magic tricks, so don’t miss one of his many shows.

 

One of the best aspects of the Festival will be the Art in the Park extravaganza, complete with hundreds of vendors, artists, and more! The Multnomah County Fair and Art in the Park will take place at 7805 SE Oaks Park Way right here in Portland.

Here’s How to Get Your Hipster On in Portland

When you live in Portland, the hipster lifestyle is considered normal and we’re just fine with that. You can’t find style like this anywhere else. Here are a few local boutiques and shops that are perfect for when you need to add a little “coolness” to your life.

 

House of Vintage

You’ll want to carve out an afternoon before you head to House of Vintage. Trust us. This huge emporium is filled with jewelry, home goods, vintage clothing, antiques, housewares, and nearly everything else you can think of!

3315 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214

 

Hollywood Vintage

Just want to shop around for clothes? Hollywood Vintage is calling your name. They offer clothing for men, women, and children, so all of your shopping needs are covered. From vintage tees to retro dresses, Hollywood Vintage will help you feel stylish!

2757 Northeast Pacific Street, Portland, OR 97232

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