Holidays in Portland

Located in Oregon, Portland is a thriving city with beautiful green spaces, a laid-back atmosphere and a thriving cultural scene. From cozy cafes to food carts, from bookstores to art galleries, this progressive Northwest town is full of hidden gems to discover. With great outdoor areas and lots of to see and do, Portland holidays promise to be an unforgettable trip to one of the United States' finest and friendliest cities.

Portland Holidays: Getting around

Portland is serviced by Portland International Airport. It's easy to reach downtown Portland via train, local bus service or taxi. Portland can be navigated by foot, bike or public transport. Visitors may wish to hire a car while in Oregon, as this makes it easier to explore the surrounding area (and with its beautiful state parks, you won't want to miss the region). Situated in the Pacific Northwest, Portland receives heavy rainfall in winter, autumn and spring; making summer the best time to visit. The time zone is GMT-8.

Portland Holidays: Where to start

A great way to start exploring Portland is to visit Portlandia. The second largest hammered copper statue in the US, Portlandia is a huge classical sculpture of a woman with a trident, overlooking the entrance of the Portland Building. Around Pioneer Square, holidaymakers will find a mix of old and new architecture, interesting museums and shops. Head to Pittock Mansion, a perfectly preserved Victorian mansion with a fascinating collection of art and original furniture. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry has many interactive exhibits about technology and earth science that are fun for the whole family. On a sunny day, have a picnic in the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, home to more than 2,500 rhododendrons and other rare plants. The Portland Classical Chinese Garden is another highlight in warm weather. To complete your holiday in Portland, explore the vibrant Mississippi Avenue Arts District, with a wealth of galleries and cafes.