Travel Packages to Portland, Australia

Discover Portland's Wonders

Portland, Australia, is a charming coastal town known for its rich maritime history, beautiful beaches, and stunning natural attractions, including the picturesque Great South West Walk and Cape Nelson Lighthouse.

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Description

Portland has earned acclaim for its vibrant dining scene—CNN even named it one of the "world's best cities for street food"—as well as its renowned coffee culture and the unique, whimsical spirit of its residents. This creativity has led to distinctive phenomena, such as "brew ‘n’ view" movie theaters that serve drinks during film screenings and food cart pods—clusters of food trucks with fixed locations. Many of these food carts have become so successful that they've transitioned to permanent brick-and-mortar locations. To truly experience the city, visit the famous Saturday Market, an open-air event featuring live music, international foods, and locally made crafts. Another great way to spend an afternoon is to bike through Portland, stopping at various craft breweries or popular restaurants along the way.

Useful information

Population:

Metro area: 2.2 million (2024)

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US Dollar (USD)

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Do & See

Breweries

Portland's beer culture dates back to the 1980s when the craft beer movement first began to gain momentum. What started as a handful of breweries has since become a defining element of the city's identity—earning it the nickname "Beervana." Today, Portland is home to roughly 80 (and counting!) craft breweries. A fun way to explore Portland's beer scene is by taking a bike tour that stops at a few local breweries. For those looking to sample a lot in a short amount of time, we recommend Loyal Legion, with 99 local brews on tap, or Apex, where you can taste some of the city's finest craft beers.

Coffee Culture

Dubbed the "home of American coffee culture," Portland knows what it takes to brew the perfect cup. In a 2016 survey of 100 U.S. cities, Portland topped the list, boasting the most coffee roasters per capita and the highest number of cafés. With so many spots to enjoy a great cup of coffee, you might think there's little room for discovery — but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Portland’s coffee scene continues to evolve, with unique additions like Oracle Coffee Company, run by Andy Hurley, the drummer of Fall Out Boy and a self-described "vegan straight-edge anarchist." The choices are endless, but for a glimpse of where it all began, visit the original Stumptown Coffee Roasters location at 4525 Southeast Division Street. Many credit this tiny space with launching Portland’s rise to coffee fame, now a chain with outlets from New York to LA.

Food Cart Pods

Portland earned its CNN-recognized title of "home to the world's best street food" thanks to a unique phenomenon: the "food cart pods." These clusters of food trucks and stalls, which enjoy semi-permanent locations and often feature shared dining areas with tables and seats, offer a diverse array of cuisines. With several hundred food carts, you can find everything from classic Americana burgers to Korean-style tacos. Notable food cart pods include those on Fifth and Third Avenues in downtown Portland, as well as the Portland State University campus. Other popular pods are Cartopia and Cartlandia in Southeast Portland, Prost Marketplace in the Northeast, and Killingsworth Station, among several others.

Forest Park

Portland is home to the nation's largest wooded urban park—Forest Park. A short hike in, and you'll find it hard to believe that civilization is just steps away. With 70 miles of trails winding through the forest and offering views of the Willamette River, you'll often have nature all to yourself. However, you're also likely to run into locals jogging or walking their dogs—expect to be greeted with a friendly "hello." If you have the time, hike up to Pittock Mansion, a stunning French Renaissance-style château that once belonged to Henry Pittock, a prominent publisher and businessman. Today, the mansion serves as a historic house museum open to visitors, offering panoramic views of the city. Another popular destination within Forest Park is the so-called "Witch's Castle"—the moss-covered ruins of an abandoned stone house. Despite its eerie name, there’s no record of witchcraft here. However, legend has it that its original inhabitant was the first person in Oregon to be sentenced to execution for murder in 1859.

International Rose Test Garden

Experience firsthand why Portland is known as the "City of Roses" by visiting its Rose Test Garden, the oldest official rose garden in the U.S. Established during World War I, the garden was originally created as a refuge for roses threatened by bombings and potential extinction. Not only did the roses survive, but they have continued to thrive and bloom in Portland. The garden is open to visitors from April through October, with the peak bloom occurring in June.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Lan Su Chinese Garden, a tranquil oasis in downtown Portland, was built as a gift from Portland’s sister city, Suzhou, China. The garden features decorative rocks imported from China by the workers who helped construct it. Visitors can enjoy guided tours (included in the admission price), explore rare plants native to China, and relax in a traditional tea house. The garden also hosts a rotating array of cultural events and activities.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a gigantic playground for both adults and children. Focusing on natural sciences and technology, the museum features several labs in five exhibition halls – chemistry, paleontology, space, and more. You can also explore the USS Blueback Submarine and a planetarium. The Empirical Café and Theory Restaurant will provide you with refreshments if needed.

Portland Art Museum

Ranked among the most prominent cultural institutions in the Pacific Northwest, the Portland Art Museum features dedicated centers for Native American and Northwest art, alongside rotating exhibitions and permanent collections in its Asian and Modern & Contemporary art wings. The museum also houses two renowned masterpieces: Monet’s Water Lilies and Van Gogh’s The Ox-Cart.

Dining

Afuri

Afuri, a renowned ramen chain from Tokyo, chose Portland for its first overseas restaurant, thanks to the city’s soft water that closely resembles Japan's, even bypassing major cities like London and New York. The chain quickly expanded to two locations, each serving its famous yuzu shio ramen, which features a delicate "chintan" chicken broth. This broth offers a subtler flavor compared to the thicker "paitan" pork broth used in tonkotsu ramen. Afuri’s menu also includes both types of ramen, along with sushi, nigiri, and the popular "chef’s spoons"—miniature samples showcasing seasonal dishes.

Canard

Canard, the highly anticipated sibling restaurant of Le Pigeon, quickly garnered acclaim after its opening in 2018, earning the title of "Restaurant of the Year." Led by renowned chef Gabriel Rucker, Canard is a chic French restaurant that draws inspiration from various global cuisines. Its biggest draws continue to be the innovative brunch offerings and expertly crafted cocktails.

Dirty Lettuce

Dirty Lettuce is a fully vegan restaurant offering hearty and flavorful soul food. If you're into Cajun or Southern cuisine but have a plant-based diet, this place has got you covered. Its menu features a vast array of vegan comfort food, including seitan-based BBQ ribs, Konjac shrimp fries, and other vegan Southern staples.

Gracie’s Apizza

Gracie’s Apizza is a one-person, wood-fired pizza shop in North Portland, serving what many locals and visitors alike claim to be the best pizza in the city. Known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative salads, the restaurant also offers a great selection of affordable wines. Seating includes a few cozy indoor spots and picnic tables in a charming little courtyard. Due to its popularity, be sure to place your order online or arrive soon after they open — they frequently sell out.

Güero

What began as a humble food cart proved so successful that it now occupies a permanent spot in the Kerns neighborhood, along the foodie-beloved Northeast 28th Avenue. Güero initially gained popularity for its splendid "tortas"—generously sized Mexican sandwiches—but it has since expanded its appeal with a laid-back ambiance, quick service, and an impressive selection of tequila and mezcal.

Kachka

One of Portland’s most intriguing restaurants offers a kitschy mock-up of the Soviet Union through an American lens: think old propaganda posters, Khrushchyovka-style wallpaper, and an impressive vodka selection. Experience what Russians call 'salad' by trying the "herring under a fur coat" (no greens, but plenty of mayo), or opt for the full "zakuski" spread to sample a bit of everything.

Le Pigeon

Le Pigeon is one of Portland's most cherished dining destinations, led by the exceptionally talented, two-time James Beard Award-winning chef Gabriel Rucker. This iconic restaurant helped put Portland on the culinary map with its inventive take on French-inspired cuisine. While its foundation is undeniably French (with dishes like the rich beef cheek bourguignon), Chef Rucker is known for pushing boundaries, blending classic techniques with unexpected flavor combinations and global influences. Le Pigeon offers a unique casual fine dining experience. Guests can enjoy an intimate view of the open kitchen from the coveted 10-seat bar, available for walk-ins—though these spots fill up fast. To fully experience Rucker’s creativity, opt for the 5- or 7-course tasting menus, which showcase the chef's versatility.

Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen

Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen is beloved for its expertly crafted yet unpretentious Vietnamese dishes, ranging from "bánh mì" baguettes to Pho soup, and an array of rice and vermicelli bowls. Its late weekend hours make it a go-to spot for post-party meals, so be prepared for a possible wait to be seated.

Cafés

Coava Coffee Roasters

Picking only a few of Portland's many excellent coffee shops and roasteries is an impossible task, but Coava truly does check most boxes: they use single-origin beans, have several spacious, laptop-friendly outlets in Portland, and their coffee, quite simply, tastes amazing. Coava started as a one-man (Michael Higgins) garage roasting and brewing operation, now growing to become one of Portland's most beloved places to get coffee – which is saying a lot.

Deadstock Coffee Roasters

Deadstock Coffee Roasters is a sneaker-themed coffee shop offering both classic and inventive signature drinks in a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. Rather than a fixed menu, you simply tell the baristas your preferences, and they will skillfully prepare it for you.

Måurice

Måurice is too popular to be as quaint as everyone says it is, yet the pace really slows inside this self-described "pastry luncheonette" as you grace your taste buds with one of Kristen Murray's Nordic-French creations. The menu changes daily, so we can't promise you'll get to try those same heavenly creations you've heard others rave about, but we're certain you won't be leaving disappointed.

Pix Patisserie

Pix Patisserie is a charming French-style dessert shop that offers a mouth-watering array of pastries, including macarons, pear rosemary cake, and the award-winning Amelie, a cake made with orange vanilla crème brûlée and chocolate mousse. The patisserie's impressive champagne and wine list has also garnered acclaim.

Proud Mary Cafe

Proud Mary Cafe is a modern Aussie-style café featuring bright wooden interiors combined with exposed brick walls and window-facing counters. This hip café offers a diverse menu, ranging from the sweet, like almond and coconut chia pudding to the savory, with its smoked pork belly sandwich and marinated chicken salad. Vegetarian options are also available alongside a limited selection of cocktails and smoothies.

Salt & Straw

Salt & Straw is a trendy artisanal ice cream parlor renowned for its inventive and unique flavor combinations, such as honey lavender, pear & blue cheese, and arbequina olive oil. Its popularity often leads to lines forming quickly, but a visit is definitely worth it—even on chilly days.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters

One of Portland's most prominent representatives of what's known as the "third wave coffee movement," Stumptown began as a single shop in 1999, only to expand nationwide during the following two decades. Founder Duane Sorenson went many extra miles to ensure that not only the final product but also the process of its procurement were above par. Needless to say, an amazing cup is to be had at any of the iconic shop's nationwide locations.

Sweedeedee

Sweedeedee is a charming café renowned for its delicious breakfast menu and house-baked pies. Be prepared for a wait, as the café is popular and tends to fill up quickly. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely meal, so plan accordingly if you're short on time.

Bars & Nightlife

Barrel Room

Crowd-pleasing events at the Barrel Room happen on Friday and Saturday evenings when their signature "dueling pianos" take place: two performers take turns entertaining guests by playing requested songs. They even host fundraising and holiday parties, mostly in the airy outdoor area, equipped with bars serving drinks and snacks.

Crystal Ballroom

Housed in a historic building over a century old, the Crystal Ballroom is a one-of-a-kind music venue where charm and artistry come together. The grand chandeliers, stunning murals, and unique floating dance floor—which adds an extra spring to your step—create an unforgettable atmosphere. The venue hosts a dynamic lineup of national and international artists, from big names to rising stars, across a wide range of musical genres. Check the Crystal Ballroom’s website to see what’s happening during your visit and catch a show while you're in town.

Expatriate

Expatriate is a hip cocktail lounge offering a unique selection of drinks, including Taiwanese beer and Italian white wine. Although limited, their drink menu is original and sure to please. To complement your beverage, Expatriate serves small bites like James Beard's onion and butter sandwich alongside more substantial dishes such as hot fried chicken strips and their signature Expatriate Nachos.

McMenamins Kennedy School

Housed in a renovated 1915 elementary school, this venue combines history and entertainment, featuring multiple bars, a restaurant, a brewery, a movie theater, and even a soaking pool. Each bar has its own distinctive atmosphere, from the cozy, book-lined Library Bar to the more lively Boiler Room Bar. The Kennedy School hosts live music, events, and movie screenings, making it a fun destination for a laid-back evening or a night of exploring different experiences in one location.

Revolution Hall

Once a high school auditorium, Revolution Hall has been brilliantly reimagined into one of Portland’s most exciting venues for music, entertainment, and socializing. Perched atop the building is the Roof Deck, offering stunning 360-degree views of downtown Portland. Open seasonally from April through October (weather permitting), it’s the perfect spot to enjoy craft cocktails, local beers, and casual bites like bratwurst platters while soaking in the scenery. For more indoor fun, head down to the Show Bar, where you can catch live sports, especially on Monday nights, or enjoy a concert, movie, or comedy show in their state-of-the-art auditorium.

Scotch Lodge

Scotch Lodge is a whiskey-focused cocktail bar that also serves Pacific Northwest-inspired small plates in an unpretentious yet elegant setting. You'll have a tough time choosing from their cocktail menu, which features unique options like the Blade Runner (made with cognac, sweet vermouth, cocoa butter washed-Campari & liqueur d'orange), the Pandan Old Fashioned (featuring tequila), and the Sport Mode (crafted with Japanese gin), among other delicious options.

White Owl Social Club

The White Owl is able to meet anyone's needs for food: vegan burgers feature their signature "impossible patty," but there are also chicken wings and sandwiches for meat-eaters. To complement the food, they offer a variety of house cocktails and a selection of locally brewed draft beers that change daily. Live music is also featured at the bar, making for a fun night out in Portland.

Shopping

Canoe

Canoe stocks stylish and refined objects of everyday use, from elegant stationery to interior decor pieces and various items for the home. You can easily pick out a unique gift here, especially considering that some of the products are exclusively produced for and distributed by Canoe. If something too large to fit in a suitcase tickles your fancy, they offer quick shipping.

Lloyd Center

The Lloyd Center, one of Portland’s main malls, spans three floors and features a range of shops including clothing and apparel boutiques, jewelry and accessories stores, as well as pet and electronics retailers. In addition to its diverse shopping options, the mall houses the Lloyd Center Ice Rink, where visitors can enjoy ice skating. A Regal Cinema multiplex is also conveniently located nearby.

MadeHere

If you're hunting for unique souvenirs or gifts to bring home, MadeHere is a must-visit in Portland. This shop showcases a wide range of locally-made products by artisans, including clothing, home decor, and accessories. You'll also find handcrafted jewelry, sweet treats like locally-made chocolates, and apothecary items such as candles and skincare products.

Monticello Antique Marketplace

The Monticello Antique Marketplace boasts a wide variety of over 100 vendors, ensuring that there's bound to be something that piques your interest. It features an array of vintage clothing, antique furniture, and home decor items. Once you've finished browsing through their selection, be sure to visit their in-house café, where you can indulge in a range of options from savory sandwiches to sweet tarts.

Old Town Music

Located in Southeast Portland, Old Town Music is an independent musical instrument store with a diverse range of music gear, including guitars, basses, drums, amplifiers, synthesizers, and microphones, among other items. They also offer repair services and provide options for trading or selling your own equipment.

Pioneer Place

Pioneer Place is a shopping complex spanning four buildings connected by skywalks and underground passages. Inside, you'll find a range of upscale boutiques and clothing stores, as well as electronics and sportswear shops. In addition to shopping, you can enjoy dining at several restaurants and catch a movie at the local theater.

Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University

The Portland Farmers Market is a non-profit organization that operates five markets across the Portland area, connecting over 200 local growers and vendors with those seeking organic and fresh products. Their flagship market, located at Portland State University (PSU), is not only a hub for local produce but also features live music performances, art exhibitions, and cooking classes.

Powell's City of Books

Powell's City of Books is so humongous that you'll need a map to navigate its many rooms, but don't worry—you can grab one for free when you enter. Spanning an entire city block, Powell's is a true Portland landmark, offering over a million new, used, and rare books. Beyond the shelves, you’ll find a cozy café to relax in, and the unique Espresso Book Machine, where anyone can make their dream of being a published writer come true by printing a hard-cover copy of their work in just a few minutes. Powell’s is more than a bookstore; it’s an experience for any book lover.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

If you want to find out why Portland is known as the "City of Roses," plan a trip for the summer months of July and August, when flowers are in full bloom, the chance of rain is low, and the city hosts a number of outdoor events and festivals. This also means that you should expect the city to be packed with tourists and locals, which also brings higher prices on accommodation. Fall and spring are both slightly more budget-friendly, so if you're not put off by the occasional rain they still make for solid choices. The cheapest time to book a trip to Portland would be winter, the period when most of the outdoor gathering points like parks and gardens shorten their opening hours. If you're a fan of winter games, though, the nearby Mount Hood and its slopes are there for you to enjoy.

Passport/Visa

Citizens of Schengen Area countries, along with Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Ireland, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom, can visit the United States for up to 90 days without needing a visa, provided they obtain an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before their trip. All other travelers must secure a visa before visiting the U.S. In addition, international travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. For the most current information and any updates on entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the U.S. Department of State website or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling.

Portland International Airport (PDX)

Portland International Airport (PDX) is located about 19 kilometers from downtown Portland, and it takes around 25 minutes to reach the city center by taxi. One of the most popular and affordable options for travelers is the MAX Light Rail Red Line, which takes about 40 minutes to get downtown. Other options include rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, airport shuttles, and local taxis. The MAX station is conveniently located outside the terminal, making public transport an efficient choice for visitors.

Public Transport

Public transportation in Portland is efficient, well-developed, and a convenient option for tourists. The city's transit system, managed by TriMet, includes buses, the MAX Light Rail, and the Portland Streetcar. There is no subway in Portland, but the MAX Light Rail connects downtown to key areas like the airport, suburbs, and major attractions. Buses and streetcars complement the MAX, covering the city’s neighborhoods. Travelers in Portland can use the Hop Fastpass, a reusable card or mobile app, to pay for TriMet buses, MAX Light Rail, and Portland Streetcar rides. It offers pay-per-ride options with daily and monthly fare caps, ensuring you never pay more than a day pass or monthly pass. Single tickets (valid for 2.5 hours) and day passes are also available through ticket machines or the app, making it easy and affordable for tourists to get around. The day pass is ideal for visitors planning to use public transport often.

Taxi

There are several taxi companies in Portland, with Radio Cab being one of the most well-known and widely used, offering services throughout the Greater Portland Metro Area. In addition, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Portland, providing convenient alternatives for getting around the city.

Electricity

US standard voltage is 110-115V and the standard frequency is 60Hz. The sockets and the power plugs are of type A and B. Type A plugs have two flat parallel pins, while Type B plugs have two flat parallel pins plus a grounding pin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Portland (FAQs)

- Is Portland safe to visit? Yes, Portland is still a safe city for visitors. However, remember that it is also the largest and most populous city in the state of Oregon, so always use common sense when visiting Portland. Do not leave your belongings unattended or visible in your vehicle, and make sure to lock your car doors and bikes. - Is Portland worth visiting? Yes, Portland is a great place to visit. The city offers an incredible array of restaurants, food trucks, microbreweries, strong coffee culture, as well as many green areas, miles of bike paths, a thriving art scene, and an eccentric character. The best part about Portland is that the city has no sales tax. - How many days do you need in Portland? In order to see and visit Portland's most popular attractions, you will need from 2 to 3 days. More days, if you plan on visiting some of the state's national forests, such as Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. - Are there 2 Portland in the U.S.? Yes, there are 2 Portland in the U.S., one on the west coast in the state of Oregon and another one on the east coast in the state of Maine.

Pharmacy

In Portland, Oregon, the main pharmacy chains include Fred Meyer Pharmacy, Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, and Safeway Pharmacy.

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