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Discover Portland
Portland isn't just a city; it's a state of mind. The unofficial motto 'Keep Portland Weird' is a living, breathing ethos you'll encounter in the world's largest independent bookstore, Powell's City of Books, and in the vibrant, ever-changing ecosystem of food cart pods like Cartopia on SE 12th and Hawthorne. This is a place where urban creativity and Pacific Northwest nature are inseparable, where you can sip a world-class craft IPA in the Pearl District and an hour later be hiking through the towering Douglas firs of Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States.
Nestled between the snow-capped peak of Mount Hood and the rugged Oregon coast, Portland offers a unique duality. You can spend a morning in contemplative silence at the Portland Japanese Garden, considered the most authentic of its kind outside Japan, and an afternoon browsing the indie boutiques and art galleries of the Alberta Arts District. The city's identity is built on fierce independence, from its legendary microbrewery scene and third-wave coffee roasters to its thriving community of makers and artists, all set against a backdrop of lush, green parks and bridges spanning the Willamette River.
Why Visit Portland?
A Culinary Playground Beyond Restaurants: Portland's legendary food cart pods are culinary micro-neighborhoods. Sample authentic Thai street food at Nong's Khao Man Gai, innovative Korean-Mexican fusion at Kim Jong Grillin', or decadent maple bacon donuts at Voodoo Doughnut, all from walkable clusters of carts.
The Craft Beverage Capital: With more breweries than any other city on Earth, Portland is a beer lover's paradise. Tour the industrial taprooms along the Eastside Ale Trail, savor a rare sour at Cascade Brewing, or explore the urban wineries and distilleries producing world-class Pinot Noir and craft spirits.
Unparalleled Access to Nature: Within the city limits, explore over 80 miles of trails in Forest Park or the serene Hoyt Arboretum. A 90-minute drive takes you to the dramatic Columbia River Gorge for waterfall hikes or to the slopes of Mount Hood for year-round skiing at Timberline Lodge.
A Mecca for Indie Culture and Shopping: Discover more than just books at the labyrinthine Powell's City of Books. Hunt for vintage treasures on Hawthorne Boulevard, find unique handmade goods at Saturday Market (the largest continuously operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the U.S.), and explore the artist studios in the Central Eastside.
Architectural Beauty and Urban Gardens: Admire the city's iconic cast-iron architecture in the Skidmore/Old Town district and the panoramic city views from the historic Pittock Mansion. Find tranquility in world-class gardens like the International Rose Test Garden and the Lan Su Chinese Garden, an authentic Ming-style scholar's garden.
A Welcoming, Progressive Vibe: Portland's culture is defined by its inclusivity, environmental consciousness, and bike-friendly streets. Experience this through its robust public transit, friendly neighborhood coffee shops, and community events that celebrate everything from pedal-powered parades (Pedalpalooza) to urban foraging.
Portland ist Bekannt für
Bereit, Portland zu entdecken?
Portland Neighborhoods
Pearl District
Once a warehouse district, the Pearl is now Portland's chic, upscale neighborhood with converted lofts, high-end boutiques, and acclaimed art galleries. The vibe is polished and walkable, centered around the lush Jamison Square park and its popular fountain.
Highlights:
Best for:
Alberta Arts District
Funky, creative, and bursting with local color, Alberta Street is the heart of Portland's indie art scene. It's lined with eclectic boutiques, mural-covered buildings, cozy cafes, and some of the city's best farm-to-table restaurants.
Highlights:
Best for:
Hawthorne District
A quintessential Portland neighborhood with a bohemian, laid-back vibe. Hawthorne Boulevard is a long strip of vintage clothing stores, quirky gift shops, historic movie theaters, and popular cafes, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and visitors.
Highlights:
Best for:
Nob Hill (Northwest 23rd)
An elegant, historic neighborhood known for its beautifully preserved Victorian homes, trendy restaurants, and chic shopping along NW 23rd Avenue. The area feels both sophisticated and neighborhoody, with a vibrant street life.
Highlights:
Best for:
Top Sehenswürdigkeiten
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Always carry a light rain jacket, even in summer. Portland's famous 'drizzle' can appear at any time, but rarely ruins plans.
- •Download the 'Trimet Tickets' app for easy, cashless payment on all buses, MAX light rail, and streetcars. A day pass is $5.
- •For the best food cart experience, head to pods with communal seating like Cartopia, The Asylum, or Prost! Marketplace.
- •Skip the long line at the original Voodoo Doughnut downtown. The location on NE Davis Street almost always has a shorter wait.
- •Portland is a 'no sales tax' state, so the price you see is the price you pay. This is a huge perk for shopping.
- •When visiting popular spots like the Japanese Garden or Pittock Mansion, book timed-entry tickets online in advance, especially on weekends.
- •Don't jaywalk. Portland police do enforce pedestrian laws, and locals generally wait for the 'walk' signal.
- •Take advantage of the city's bike share system, BIKETOWN, for an affordable way to explore the many bike-friendly neighborhoods and bridges.
- •Tipping is standard: 15-20% at sit-down restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and a few dollars for food cart service if there's a tip jar.
- •If you're driving, be aware that many downtown streets have confusing 'No Right Turn on Red' intersections. Pay close attention to the signs.
Portland Food Scene
Portland's food scene is fiercely local, innovative, and accessible. It's defined by farm-to-table freshness, culinary fusion born in food carts, and a 'no rules' creativity that has made it a destination for food lovers. The city takes its coffee, beer, and donuts as seriously as its fine dining.
Must-Try Dishes
Food Carts & Street Food
- • Nong's Khao Man Gai (Hainanese chicken rice)
- • Bing Mi! (Chinese jianbing crepes)
- • Matt's BBQ Tacos (Texas-style brisket in a tortilla)
Most pods are cash-only or prefer card, but it's good to have some cash for smaller vendors. Look for pods with covered seating.
Pacific Northwest Fine Dining
- • Le Pigeon (innovative French-inspired tasting menu)
- • Canard (casual sister to Le Pigeon, famous for steam burgers)
- • Langbaan (award-winning Thai tasting menu in a hidden back room)
Reservations are essential and often book up weeks in advance. Set alerts on Resy or OpenTable.
Brewpub & Casual Eats
- • Deschutes Brewery Portland Pub (black butte porter & pub fare)
- • Screen Door (Southern comfort food & epic brunch)
- • Tasty n Alder (wood-fired shared plates)
Brewpubs often don't take reservations for small groups. Be prepared for a wait, which you can pass in the taproom.
Coffee & Sweet Treats
- • Coava Coffee (single-origin pour-overs)
- • Blue Star Donuts (brioche-based, gourmet donuts)
- • Pip's Original Doughnuts (mini, hot, fresh chai & honey donuts)
Skip the franchise coffee. Portland's third-wave roasters like Heart, Stumptown, and Water Avenue are destinations in themselves.
Beliebt bei
Best Time to Visit Portland
Spring
Spring is lush and green, with blooming cherry blossoms and rhododendrons. The famous Rose Festival happens in late May/early June. Rain is frequent but interspersed with sunny, mild days.
Pros:
- + Beautiful blooms in parks and gardens
- + Fewer tourists than summer
- + Comfortable temperatures (10-18°C)
Cons:
- - Unpredictable, rainy weather
- - Higher river levels can limit some Columbia Gorge hikes
Summer
Portland's summer is glorious, with long, sunny days, low humidity, and warm temperatures. This is peak festival and outdoor dining season. The city is at its most vibrant and crowded.
Pros:
- + Consistently dry, sunny weather (up to 27°C)
- + All outdoor attractions are in full swing
- + Night markets, outdoor movies, and festivals
Cons:
- - Peak tourist crowds and higher prices
- - Popular restaurants and attractions require advanced planning
Autumn
Crisp air, changing leaves, and the return of the famous 'Portland drizzle.' A beautiful time for forest hikes as vine maples turn gold and red. The harvest season brings fresh produce and wine tasting.
Pros:
- + Stunning fall foliage, especially in Washington Park
- + Harvest season for apples, pears, and wine grapes
- + Shoulder season deals on accommodation
Cons:
- - Increasing rain as the season progresses
- - Shorter daylight hours
Winter
Wet, gray, and mild, with rare snow in the city. A cozy time to explore museums, bookstores, and breweries. The nearby mountains (Mt. Hood) offer excellent skiing just 90 minutes away.
Pros:
- + Indoor cultural scene thrives (museums, theaters)
- + Skiing and snowboarding on Mount Hood are easily accessible
- + Few tourists and lower hotel rates
Cons:
- - Frequent overcast skies and rain (avg 6°C)
- - Very short days (sunset around 4:30 PM in December)
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Vergleiche Preise für Züge, Busse und Flüge nach Portland
Gib deine Abfahrtsstadt ein, um Preise zu sehen
Aktivitäten in Portland buchen
Warteschlangen überspringen mit vorgebuchten Touren und Attraktionen
Day Trips from Portland
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
30-60 min by car east on I-84
A dramatic river canyon lined with countless waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning vistas. The Historic Columbia River Highway is one of America's most beautiful drives.
Mount Hood
90 min by car east on US-26
A year-round adventure destination centered on Oregon's tallest peak. Visit the historic Timberline Lodge, ski in summer, or hike through wildflower meadows.
Oregon Coast (Cannon Beach)
90 min by car west on US-26
Experience the rugged, misty beauty of the Pacific Northwest coast. Famous for its dramatic sea stacks, long sandy beaches, and charming coastal towns.
Portland Budget Guide
Portland is moderately priced for a major U.S. West Coast city. While accommodation can be costly, its lack of sales tax, affordable food cart meals, and free attractions like parks help balance the budget.
Budget
$70-100 per person for budget travelers (hostel, food carts, public transit)
per day
Mid-Range
$150-250 per person for mid-range (hotel/Airbnb, mix of casual restaurants, some attractions)
per day
Luxury
$350+ per person for luxury (boutique hotels, fine dining, private tours)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Stay in neighborhoods like Hawthorne or close-in Eastside for better hotel/Airbnb value than downtown.
- •Eat at food carts for delicious, filling meals often under $12.
- •Take advantage of free attractions: hiking in Forest Park, exploring Powell's Books, visiting public parks and gardens.
- •A Trimet day pass ($5) is a steal for unlimited bus, MAX, and streetcar travel.
- •Many breweries and distilleries offer free or low-cost ($5-10) tasting flights.
Portland Hidden Gems
The Grotto (National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother)
A 62-acre Catholic sanctuary and botanical garden built into a cliffside, featuring a serene marble cave shrine, peaceful forest trails, and stunning views from its upper level.
It's a breathtakingly beautiful and tranquil space, often overlooked by tourists. The botanical gardens are immaculate, and the elevator ride up the cliff offers a unique perspective.
Mill Ends Park
Officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's smallest park, this 2-foot diameter circle in a median on SW Naito Parkway.
It's a whimsical piece of Portland's quirky character. Locals treat it as a true park, with its own 'festivals' and tiny decorations maintained by a dedicated community.
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
A stunning 9.5-acre garden surrounding a lake, home to over 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and other plants, with picturesque bridges and waterfowl.
While the Japanese and Rose Gardens get the crowds, this is a local favorite for a peaceful, postcard-perfect stroll, especially in peak bloom (April-May).
The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium and Museum
A bizarre museum/store hybrid filled with oddities, creepy artifacts, and interactive exhibits celebrating the strange and unusual.
It's the physical embodiment of 'Keep Portland Weird.' A fun, offbeat, and slightly spooky stop you won't find in any other city.
Council Crest Park
The highest point in Portland at 1,073 feet, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city, Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams.
It's less crowded than Pittock Mansion and offers a more sweeping, unobstructed vista. A popular spot for sunset picnics among locals.
Portland Culture & Customs
Portland culture is a blend of progressive values, environmental stewardship, and a fierce pride in localism and individuality. The 'Keep Portland Weird' mantra encourages small business support, artistic expression, and a generally laid-back, polite, and inclusive atmosphere. Outdoor activity is woven into daily life.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Recycle and compost diligently; Portland takes its sustainability seriously.
- •Be patient and polite in lines, especially at popular food carts and coffee shops.
- •Respect personal space and a generally quieter public demeanor compared to other U.S. cities.
- •Don't litter, and always clean up after your dog.
- •Tipping is expected for table service (15-20%), bartenders ($1-2/drink), and food carts with tip jars.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Portland
Do I need to rent a car in Portland?
Not for exploring the city core. Portland's public transit, walkability, and bike shares are excellent. A car is highly recommended, however, for day trips to the Columbia Gorge, Mount Hood, or the coast.
Is Portland safe for tourists?
Portland's core tourist areas are generally safe. Like any city, practice standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and secure your belongings. The Old Town/Chinatown area can feel sketchy after dark.
What's the deal with the food cart pods?
Pods are curated clusters of food carts, often with shared seating. They are permanent fixtures, not temporary markets. Each pod has its own vibe and mix of cuisines. They are a central part of Portland's dining culture.
How do I get around between the different neighborhoods?
Use the Trimet system (bus/MAX/streetcar) with a $5 day pass. The MAX light rail connects downtown to the airport, the Eastside, and the suburbs. The bus network is extensive. Rideshares and the BIKETOWN bike share are also great options.
What should I pack for a trip to Portland?
Pack layers and a waterproof jacket or shell, regardless of season. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. In summer, include sunglasses and sunscreen. In winter, a warm coat, hat, and gloves are needed, especially for mountain trips.
Can I visit the waterfalls in the Columbia Gorge year-round?
Yes, but access varies. Spring offers the most powerful flows. Summer is most crowded. Some trails may be closed due to fire damage or winter ice; always check the USDA Forest Service website for current conditions before you go.
Is Portland a good destination for families?
Absolutely. Highlights include the Oregon Zoo, OMSI (science museum), the Portland Children's Museum, easy hikes in Washington Park, and the interactive fountains at Jamison Square and the Salmon Street Springs.
What's the best way to experience Portland's craft beer scene?
Take a guided brewery tour, or create your own crawl in a dense brewing area like the Central Eastside or along N Williams Avenue. Most breweries are taproom-focused, offering flights so you can sample a variety of styles.
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