The Pearl District, formerly an industrial hub, is now peppered with art galleries, handmade crafts and artisanal cafes. It's a mecca for young creatives, entrepreneurs and bearded baristas alike. Likewise, Hawthorne District is home to a plethora of quirky fashions, funky coffeehouses and eccentric bars. If you're visiting in February, drop by the PDX Festival for a much-needed shot of jazz in cool basement venues around the city.
Portland's gastronomic landscape is second to none, with a thriving locavore ethic of artisanal farm-to-fork restaurants, iconic craft breweries and vineyards galore. Bringing together all the best culinary moments is one of our favourite events in the city, Feast Portland, which takes place every September outlining a number of talks, testers and masterclasses from foodie creatives across the city.
Of course, the picture of Portland wouldn't be complete without a nod towards the great outdoors. The city itself is home to leafy parks (Washington Park and the Japanese Gardens are our favourites), while further afield are farms and ranches to visit for a stroll or lunch. Alternatively, visit the 80-mile long forested canyon in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area for walking and biking along well-marked trails. Come winter; skiing, snowshoeing and other adrenaline-fuelled snowsports take centre stage.
