About Portland

Portland is known for its vibrant culture, and people flock to be a part of its deep culture. Historically an affordable city for the arts, whether you’re a fan of theater, cultural communities, funky foods, or just being outside, Portland has something for you. The Rose City is the perfect launchpad for activities and adventures of any kind.

Photo Credit: Justin Katigbak, Travel Portland

Why Attendees Love Portland

Eating in Portland

Enjoy a variety of micro restaurants at Portland Food Hall, feast on Irish fare at Paddy’s Bar & Grill, or taste local, organically sourced ingredients at Urban Farmer. For those wanting a quick bite, Break Bread offers multiple Portland-style subs while Voodoo Doughnut, Portland’s iconic doughnut shop, sells inventive offerings with surprising ingredients like bacon and bubblegum. Here are some Portland eats that are nearby our Annual Meeting hotel:

  • Jake's Famous Crawfish, seafood and such - 12-minute walk from Hilton
  • Lechon, South American food - 15-minute walk from Hilton
  • Ringside Steakhouse, upscale steakhouse that's been open for 80 years - 7-minute uber from Hilton
  • Higgins, classy local and northwest sourced ingredients and Oregon wines - 5-minute walk from Hilton

 

Downtown Portland Delights

Activities in Portland

Portland's compact and walkable downtown area offers easy access to green spaces, tax-free shopping, cultural offerings and seemingly endless things to do. Whether you want to spend your time partaking in a wide range of entertainment (theaters, museums, parks, etc.) or want to shop till you drop at major retailers, locally owned boutiques and specialty shops, there are enough activities to keep any traveler busy for days. Simply choose where you want to go and start exploring! 

Credit: Travel Portland 

  • Portland Art Museum: The oldest art museum in the Northwest delights visitors with its permanent collection, sculpture garden and frequent major exhibitions.
  • Powell's City of Books: From humble storefront beginnings in 1971, Powell’s has grown into an iconic Portland destination. Occupying an entire city block, the world’s largest new and used bookstore offers frequent author talks, a rare book room and a coffee shop.
  • Portland Aerial Tram: The Portland Aerial Tram’s cabins rise 500 feet at 22 miles per hour for the three-minute trip from the South Waterfront to Oregon Health & Science University’s main campus, offering views of downtown, the Willamette River and the mountains.
  • Oregon Zoo: Located near downtown Portland in Washington Park, the Oregon Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from 165 species and subspecies. Guests can also enjoy an education center, collection of exotic plants, a historic railway and more.
  • Portland Japanese Garden: The Portland Japanese Garden is a sanctuary, landmark and tribute to the culture ties between Oregon and Japan. With eight distinct and meticulously crafted garden styles, as well as a gallery and learning center, this Portland landmark honors and showcases Japan’s architectural, cultural and artistic traditions.
  • Leach Botanical GardenThe Leach Botanical Garden is a testament to the Pacific Northwest’s most fascinating landscapes, a respite from fast-paced city life. Offering a wide range of features from a pollinator garden to a plethora of native plants and an aerial tree walk, it’s a shining example of Portland’s natural diversity.  
  • Washington ParkWashington Park is one of the oldest, most popular parks in Portland. It features 15 miles (24 km) of trails and more than 400 acres of trees, gardens, playgrounds and attractions.
  • Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)Sitting on the Willamette River in Portland’s Central Eastside, this science museum is a must for any family to explore. With five huge exhibit halls, a slew of interactive exhibits and laboratories, multiple auditoriums hosting films and events, and much more, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s top science centers.
  • Oaks Amusement Park: Oaks Amusement Park is a top destination for carnival thrills and family funThis popular attraction comprises 44 tree-studded acres (17.8 ha) of rides (including classics like bumper cars, a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster), carnival and arcade games, miniature golf, a roller-skating rink, a carousel and a mini-train.
Want to learn more about what Portland has to offer? Visit Travel Portland for more information and guides to the city.