WASHINGTON — Portland, Oregon’s, appeal is especially evident as D.C.-area temperatures hit the teens.
The Rose City’s average low in January is 36 degrees, while the average high is 47. A beach paradise it’s not, but it’s a welcome departure for numb travelers who need a change of scenery (or a chance to hit the slopes).
Built around the Willamette River, this walkable city loves its craft beer, its edgy cuisine and its artisanal wares. What’s not to like?
Here are some suggestions as you get an itinerary started.
Getting around
Trimet consists of light rail and buses, and is a good complement for those who wish to get around on foot primarily. Uber, Lyft and cabs are also available for those who are looking to stay close to town.
Checking in
Jupiter Hotel (800 E. Burnside St.). Motor lodge turned funky chic. It adds a hipster-esque ambience that could only happen in Portland. And the coolest part? It doubles as an underground music venue called Doug Fir, complete with restaurant, bar and outdoor hangout. It’s dog friendly and perfect for both a good night’s sleep and a good night out. The Jupiter is a 10-minute drive to the airport and less than a mile from Portland’s city center (Jupiter even provides bikes).
The Benson (309 Southwest Broadway). Its décor runs counter to the edgy ambience of a boutique spot, with chandeliers, mahogany doors and a design that stays faithful to its history. (It was built back in 1913.) The amenities are top-notch, and the location puts you close to Pioneer Square and the Pearl District.
Edgefield Hotel (2126 SW Halsey St., Troutdale, Oregon). This hotel, located just east of the city, is part of a family-owned chain in the region, McMenamins. The hotel features an on-site glass blower as well as a theater and music venue. Each McMenamins property offers their handcrafted beer, wine, cider, spirits and coffee.
Hiking and sightseeing
International Rose Test Garden (400 SW Kingston Ave.). Take in the sights and smells of row after row of beautiful flowers — then take a tour of the nearby Japanese Garden.
Multnomah Falls. Without trudging through the unbeaten path, Multnomah Falls is an easily accessible tourist attraction. All 620 feet of this gorgeous waterfall affords visitors the opportunity to experience the magnitude, power and natural beauty of Mother Nature up close. Those who aren’t interested in a lengthy hike can easily access it directly off the road, along a paved pathway.
Columbia River Gorge Trail. One of Oregon’s most famous scenic areas, the gorge — located east of Portland — is the largest national scenic area in the United States. It features scenic picnic spots, several waterfalls and trails for all skill levels. All allow visitors to experience the true magnificence of the Pacific Northwest.
Eating and drinking
Basecamp (930 SE Oak St.). It’s your favorite kind of camping: You can sit at a bar, drink a beer and eat real food. So yeah, it’s actually not camping at all. With two local food trucks parked on site and a great outdoor seating area with mountain views, this brewery is a great place to start your trip.
Stumptown Coffee (four locations). This Portland staple is definitely the place to check out if you’re looking for something inherently Portland and a little more established than a neighborhood joint. But not to worry, it has retained all its neighborhood charm.
Voodoo Doughnuts (two locations). Voodoo is legendary in the Rose City for its offbeat approach to pastries. (“The Voodoo Doll,” for instance, is a raised yeast doughnut filled with raspberry jelly and topped with chocolate frosting and a pretzel stake through the chest.) Get there early: Its line can go out the door.
Deschutes (210 NW 11th Ave.). Their Portland Public House features beer with a taste that is distinctly central Oregon. Deschutes is a popular destination for drinks, a wide menu and a relaxed atmosphere. Over 25 taps feature mainstays, along with seasonal and experimental beers. Complementing the booze are dishes made from local ingredients.
Shopping
Powell’s City of Books (1005 W Burnside St.). If it’s not the best bookstore in the world, it’s easily in the top three. This independent covers an entire downtown city block. After spending hours exploring it, you still won’t want to leave. Shipping back home is offered, in case you lose your mind and buy too much (which you will).
Portland Gear (627 SW 19th Ave.). T-shirts, hats and other fare that’s a cut above what you’d find at the airport gift shop. This relatively new (but distinctive) brand’s flagship store is located near the local soccer club’s home, Providence Park.
Frances May (1003 SW Washington St.). This boutique features up-and-coming independent designers who share its vintage-but-forward-looking sensibility.
Modo Boutique (two locations). This shop mixes vintage consignment with newly curated modern style, along with handmade jewelry, hand-stitched calf leather accessories and more.
WTOP’s Jack Pointer contributed to this report. Read more from Elly on Facebook, follow along on her blog at ByEllyJane.com and on Instagram.
