Take in all of Portland’s natural beauty
If you like waterfalls, check out the stunning 620-foot, two-tiered Multnomah Falls in the Columbia River Gorge, the tallest waterfall in the state.
You’ll also enjoy a nice drive down the Historic Columbia River Highway, which will take you past several other waterfalls, including Horsetail Falls, Triple Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Latourell Falls. Just take Exit 35 on I-84 and enjoy the winding roads and spectacular views. You can end your waterfall tour with a fantastic photo opportunity at the Vista House.
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Visit the Portland Japanese Garden for a nice tranquil stroll. A 12.5-acre oasis in Portland's Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden features eight distinct Japanese garden styles. It's known as "the most beautiful and authentic Japanese garden in the world outside of Japan.”
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Restaurants that have our hearts
1987 NW Kearney Street
During the 2021 snowstorm, Quenton and Ryan hiked a mile through the snow to Cafe Nell, where they celebrated Valentine’s Day masked up, fireside, inside an outdoor yurt — all while a fight broke out on the street. It was still worth it.
303 SW 12th Avenue
Quenton and Ryan's first date spot (known as Zeus Café at the time) when Quenton was moving to Portland.
219 SW 9th Avenue
Quenton and Ryan ordered from Thai Peacock almost weekly during COVID, and it wasn’t until three years after living in Portland that we finally ate there in person. To this day, it’s still one of their regular go-to restaurants.
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111 SW 5th Avenue, 30th Floor
Sitting high on the 30th floor of “Big Pink,” Portland City Grill serves up jaw-dropping views alongside steaks, sushi, and strong cocktails. It’s a perfect mix of fancy and fun. Ryan used to work in this building, so we can promise the elevators are reliable!
525 SW Morrison Street, 15th Floor
Departure is a rooftop restaurant with futuristic, high-end airline energy. With Pan-Asian flavors and skyline views, this is our go-to spot for birthday dinners. For those staying in the Nines, Departure is on the top floor!
Brunch, Coffee, or a Good Book
1981 W Burnside Street
Whether you're a fan of savory or sweet, there's something here for everyone. The vibe of Hunnymilk is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying a relaxing meal while sipping on a delicious coffee.
1131 NW Couch Street
2337 E Burnside Street
Famous for their fried chicken, brunch, and all-day menu, the restaurant combines Southern food traditions with Northwest values, focusing on local, fresh, and delicious food.​​
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1005 W Burnside Street (flagship location)
3723 SE Hawthorne Boulevard
A renowned independent bookstore chain whose flagship store occupies an entire city block with a full street-level coffee shop. It offers a vast selection of books, including hard-to-find and out-of-print titles, and features author events and a rare book room. Grab a book and relax with a cup of Junior's Roasted coffee.​
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Have a drink at some of Portland’s most iconic bars
110 NW Broadway
Home to Portland’s largest LGBT bar, with regular drag shows, a live DJ, and 40 screens playing music videos throughout the night.
1124 SW Alder Street
Known for its extensive and diverse spirit collection, particularly whiskey, with over 2,000 bottles spanning various regions and distillation traditions. The library also offers a range of other spirits, cocktails, and food, and is known for its upscale, clubby atmosphere with high ceilings, warm wood, and vintage elements. Reservations required.
235 SW 1st Avenue
Founded in 2021, this haunted mansion-themed cocktail lounge offers an interactive mixology experience. Guests can explore the manor, learn about Dr. Raven's experiments, and create their own "elixirs" using ingredients from the bar. The bar is known for its spooky atmosphere, unique cocktails, and interactive elements like a "skull room" and themed food items. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are preferred.
