When it comes to the concept of sightseeing, Portland is not usually the top of a traveler’s list. Because it is more known for its thriving modern-day culture, Portland’s natural gems are often overlooked by sightseeing travelers.
However, did you know that Portland has a lot to offer when it comes to breathtaking views? With that said, check out the best places in Portland where you can find amazing views
Best Parks in Portland
Portland does not have a shortage when it comes to parks where people can spend the day. From the world’s smallest park to the vast and majestic beauty of the woodland wilderness, Portland certainly understands the importance of integrating nature with the urban lifestyle.
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Mount Tabor City Park
Top of the list is the Mount Tabor City Park which is considered one of Portland’s historic landmarks. What is special about this park is that it is located on an extinct volcano – which is right in the middle of the city.
It provides an amazing view of the city’s skyline but also offers several areas where you can engage in recreational activities such as a picnic area, an off-leash dog park, and several courts for sports.
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Cathedral Park
If you love picturesque areas, then Cathedral Park is definitely a place you should check out. It offers a sprawling green landscape that will make you feel more relaxed and calmer – a stark contrast to the daily hectic life in the city.
Walking under the St. John’s Bridge will allow you to see some of the breathtaking views of Oregon’s forestry, surreal and dreamlike.
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Washington City Park
Another must-visit on your list is the Washington City Park whose amazing sights include the International Rose Test Garden with over 10,000 rose bushes and the Japanese Garden whose authenticity matches that of a real Japanese garden.
Portland Date Ideas
Portland is known for its bustling metropolis and there is certainly no shortage when it comes to places to hang out.
If you want to spend a day with your special someone, check out some of these Portland date ideas you can add to your must-do while in Portland.
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Hiking in Forest Park
As mentioned, Portland has several parks that will awe and amaze you with their breathtaking beauty. Go beyond the typical drinks and explore nature with your special someone by hiking in Forest Park.
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Have Dinner at Portland City Grill
The city is certainly a sight to behold and one of the best seats you can find is at the Portland City Grill. Reserve a table by the window and gaze upon the beauty of the city while you enjoy one of the best meals in Portland.
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Visit the Washington Park
A trip to the Washington City Park is worth repeating as nothing says romance than being surrounded by beautiful rose bushes in the International Rose Test Garden and experiencing the beauty of Japan in the Japanese Garden.
Fun Facts about Portland, Oregon
Check out these fun facts about Portland, Oregon, and learn why it is a place worth visiting.
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Its name was decided by a coin toss.
The founders of this city had a difficult time naming the land they just acquired so they did what anyone in their position would do – they flipped a coin. Whoever won got to name the city and Pettygrove, whose origins can be traced to the area of Portland, Maine, won. Because of this, the city of Portland, Oregon was born.
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It is home to the world’s smallest park.
Mills End Park is considered by the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s smallest park. With a diameter of 0.6 meters, this “park” was supposed to be where a light pole was installed but was instead converted into a park by a journalist by planting flowers in the hole.
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It has a unique slogan, “Keep Portland Weird.”
Brought into the city back in 2003, the slogan “keep Portland weird” garnered popularity among the city’s residents who wanted to promote individuality, local culture, self-expression, and the city’s unique lifestyle.
Areas to Avoid in Portland
While Portland generally has a reputation for being one of the best places to live in the country, it is still a city and it is best to be careful and to keep safe during your trip. For example, locking your bike is a common practice since bike theft happens often enough. Another would be avoiding walking around during the night.
Other than that, Portland is mostly a safe place for travelers and residents alike but again, it is best to practice safety and care, especially at night.
International Travelers to Portland
If you are an international traveler who wants to visit Portland, you will be required to have an ESTA. This requires accomplishing an ESTA application form and submitting it before you visit the US. You also need to answer several ESTA application questions that will determine whether you are eligible for the program.
Just in case you are wondering, ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) allows you to visit any of the states in the US if you do not have a visitor’s visa. Essentially, the program allows travel to the US for either business or pleasure purposes provided that it will not exceed a total of 90 days.
However, before you can apply for an ESTA, you should first check if your country is a member of the Visa Waiver Program. As of now, only around 30+ countries belong to the program such as Australia, United Kingdom, Denmark, and Japan. Therefore, before you proceed to fill up an application, research first if you are country is eligible or not.
The application process is fairly quick, usually taking only around 30 minutes to complete. Meanwhile, the approval usually takes around a minute, though there are certain cases where it might take up to 72 hours.
Once your application has been approved, it will remain valid for two years or until your traveler’s passport expires.
Final Thoughts
Portland is a great and thriving metropolis who has a lot more to offer than its unique and unusual culture and lifestyle. With its amazing parks that offer breathtaking views, Portland should definitely be on your list of must-visit places in the US.
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