Let’s admit it, as fun as Eugene can be at times, we all get a little tired of the same ole’, same ole’. Between school and college life drama, a little vacation seems mandatory for our sanity. Although it’s not easy to make a quick trip to one of the finer sunny vacation destinations, there is a popular, less boring weekend just two hours north! So, when in need of a little adventure, grab a couple of your best girl friends, your best outfits or maybe your adventurous boyrfriend, and hop in the car for a Portland getaway.
The City of Roses offers more than hippies and bad drivers. With a variety of fun, cheap, and out of the ordinary things to do, it’s the ideal city for a few days away from the daily grind of college life
During my travels to Portland destinations, I have compiled a list of my all time personal favorite spots to frequent while visiting:
Jupiter Hotel
The Jupiter Hotel is located in the cultural district right in the heart of Portland. With a completely urban feel and tons of free amenities, this is truly the place to stay for a weekend getaway. All of its 81 rooms are pet friendly and the hotel even offers special pet-designated rooms equipped with accommodations for your furry friends including: dog treats, a dog bed, a leash, toys, and many other comforts to make your pup feel at home. The Jupiter Hotel offers huge deals for last minute stays and even features its best deals on its website to ensure its guests get the most affordable rooms.
Website: http://www.jupiterhotel.com
Food Carts
Arguably the most important question when going on vacation is: “What are we going to eat?” Well, Portland likes to make sure everyone is well fed. Strategically placed food cart “villages” are almost everywhere one turns. With delicious options from Argentinian to comfort food, Portland visitors will find that eating at the food carts is more about the experience than the meal itself. Prices for food cart entries are much lower than their counterpart restaurants, with the quality being equal, if not better.
Website: http://www.foodcartsportland.com
23rd Avenue
Any Portlander knows that this area boasts the best shopping in the entire Rose City. I mean seriously, an entire street full of boutiques seems perfect for us girls! Tons of cute vintage stores will make a gal feel like she is in the middle of the Thrift Shop music video. A college co-ed can make a day out of expanding her wardrobe by shopping til’ she drops. Her favorite male companion can be included by accompanying her and being her personal bag carrier. When finished, the two can grab dessert at the delectable Papa Hayden before heading out on the town!
Voodoo Doughnuts
Okay I know, there was recently a Voodoo Doughnut shop opened in Eugene and it has provided many of us Ducks a sweet tooth satisfaction. But what’s better than visiting the original shop – the hole-in-the-wall store in the middle of downtown Portland that started it all? The original shop sits on the corner of 3rd Ave. and Akeny St. and is open 24 hours. Oh, and don’t be intimidated if the line is all the way around the block – the wait is worth it! (P. S. the original “voodoo doll” donut is my fav! Try it!)
Website: http://voodoodoughnut.com
Trail Blazer Game
A trip to PDX is only complete with a ticket to see the Northwest’s only NBA team play at the Rose Garden Arena. The Blazers have games up to three times a week; making it easy to find a game during your trip. A courtside ticket may cost you a pretty penny and are hard to find on short notice. So find some affordable seats in the nosebleeds to watch the game and take advantage of the jumbo-tron for close-ups. The Rose Garden is considered the loudest arena in the NBA so make sure you come as a #1 fan ready to scream your head off!
Website: http://www.nba.com/blazers/
Salt & Straw
Who doesn’t love homemade ice cream? Salt & Straw Ice Creamery located in Northeast Portland makes handmade cream in a variety of flavors. Best of all, many of their ingredients are local and fresh. Although some of the flavors may seem interesting… they are specially developed to suit anyone’s sweet tooth. Pick a flavor, pick a cone, and start licking! My suggestion: Honey Balsamic Strawberry with Cracked Pepper
Website: http://saltandstraw.com
Pittock Mansion
One of the most historic landmarks in Portland, Pittock Mansion invites you to take a look-see into the life of one of the city’s most elite. The mansion was once owned by the founder of the Oregonian and is now open as a museum. At one of the highest points in the city, the mansion’s backyard overlooks downtown Portland, beautiful forests, and Mt. Hood. You can drive up to the historic landmark or take one of the many hiking trails – either way, this place is definitely a sight to see.
Website: http://pittockmansion.org
Oregon Zoo
Typical, I know, but the furry friends at the Oregon Zoo are totally irresistible! Especially with the new baby elephant, Lily, a trip to the zoo is almost necessary. Pick the sunniest day of your trip, pack a picnic, and head to zoo to see some of the cutest animals around!
Website: http://www.oregonzoo.org
Alright ladies, keep in mind that the city is not limited to the above sights. These are some of my favorites and I encourage you to visit them! However, if you’re planning a Portland getaway, my biggest piece of advice would be… go and explore it for yourself!