Beginner's Guide to Oregon

Southeast Portland Neighborhoods

2006-05-17T21:06:38Z

Eastmoreland
If you like wide tree-lined streets (lots of elms), quiet neighbors, and a variety of house styles, you will like Eastmoreland. If you take a drive on SE Reed, you will want to move here. Average price for homes sold in the Eastmoreland neighborhood in 2005: $318,742

Hosford-Abernathy
In this Southeast neighborhood you can shop at two food markets, walk to see a movie, and have an expanding choice of restaurants. Plus you are within minutes of downtown Portland. Average price for homes sold in the Hosford-Abernathy neighborhood in 2005: $352,254

Mount Tabor
Mount Tabor has sweeping city and mountain views, is close to downtown, has a scenic 195-acre public park, and an easy mix of modest older homes and stately mansions. Mt. Tabor is the only volcano within a major city in the United States. Mount Tabor is a very stable neighborhood and people stay in Mount Tabor once they relocate to the area. Average price for homes sold in the Mount Tabor neighborhood in 2005: $308,541

Sellwood-Moreland
Sellwood-Moreland is located five miles south of downtown Portland on the east side of the Willamette River. The neighborhoods of Sellwood and Westmoreland are combined into Sellwood-Moreland. Sellwood is a showcase for many restored Victorian houses and has a good selection of excellent eateries.Average price for homes sold in the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood in 2005: $318,742.

Sunnyside
Sunnyside begins 28 blocks east of the Willamette River. The lure of this neighborhood is accessibility, locally owned shops that keep the neighborhood creative, and homes with lots of character. It is a young and vibrant neighborhood thanks to having two-thirds of the residents as renters. They are attracted to Sunnyside's access to public transportation and affordable older homes. Average price for homes sold in the Sunnyside neighborhood in 2005: $352,254

Northeast Portland Neighborhoods

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Alameda
Some homes in this neighborhood, particularly those along the periphery of the ridge, have breathtaking views of the Willamette River and the downtown skyline. Its a neighborhood where you will find tree-lined streets, older architecturally significant homes, trendy neighborhood shops, coffee shops, and a high level of community involvement. Average price for homes sold in the Alameda neighborhood in 2005: $423,455

Beaumont-Wilshire
One of the advantages of living in the Beaumont-Wilshire neighborhood is the variety of home styles that are available. South of Fremont, most of the homes were built in the early 1900s and you can find Tudors, Craftsman, bungalows, etc. Also home to Wilshire Park, a 14.83 acre paradise filled with a canopy of mature trees, playgrounds, and picnic facilities. Average price for homes sold in the Beaumont-Wilshire neighborhood in 2005: $423,455

Concordia
You will like Concordia If you like diversity, funky, and art. Note the complete absence of national chains and fast food outlets. Here you can find lots of historic homes (especially on the east side of the neighborhood boundary) that need some TLC. Average price for homes sold in the Concordia neighborhood in 2005: $243,740

Grant Park
Here residents enjoy walking, tree lined streets, and historic homes. Walking in Grant Park means more than taking an evening stroll in the neighborhood. It means that you can walk to the library, restaurants, and even to the food market. Average price for homes sold in the Grant Park neighborhood in 2005: $323,455

Irvington
Many of Irvington's large, historic homes were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. NE Knott runs through the heart of Irvington and is lined with some of Irvington's most beautiful homes. Each year during the Christmas season a group of owners offer open houses to the public that can be toured on horse-drawn carriages. Average price for homes sold in the Irvington neighborhood in 2005: $423,455

Laurelhurst
Laurelhurst is a close-in residential area of 427 acres containing in its 1,817 households a total of 4,549 people (2000 census). 86% of the Laurelhurst residents live in their own homes. Average price for homes sold in the Laurelhurst neighborhood in 2005: $353,281.

North Portland Neighborhoods

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Boise
The city of Portland created the Mississippi Historic District Target Area here to improve public safety, upgrade housing and attract businesses. The city is beginning to see the results. This is one of Oregon’s poorest and most diverse neighborhoods. Changes are happening quickly. People walk to the shops by day; at night, live music can be found at the Mississippi Pizza Pub. Average price for homes sold in the Boise neighborhood in 2005: $269,958.

Piedmont
This is a neighborhood in transition, with new affordable-home developments being built, older houses being remodeled, and the new Interstate MAX light-rail line under construction just a few blocks west. Average price for homes sold in the Piedmont neighborhood in 2005: $221,030.

University Park
Neighborhood has a unique layout and street names thanks to the efforts of Methodists who attempted to open a university here. Boasts Columbia University and the University of Portland. Neighborhood surrounds the University of Portland. Average price for homes sold in the University Park neighborhood in 2005: $192,537

Sources:
www.movingtoportland.net

Portland Restaurants and Entertainment Overview

2006-05-17T21:09:53Z

The one thing I think about when dining in Portland is fresh! Fresh ingredients are key in this Northwest city. The region’s best seafood, berries, pears, cherries, hazelnuts, wild game, and vegetables of all kinds inspire creative chefs in this area to create culinary masterpieces. The seafood is delectable and when I traveled to Portland, this was my absolute favorite part of dining out – the fresh Northwest seafood! Portland has also become well known for its proliferation of microbrews and many wineries are within an hour’s drive as well. Needless to say, there’s no shortage of wonderful places to eat (and drink) in Portland. Check out the following restaurants if you want to experience the best of Portland.

Restaurants: Best of Portland

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Paley’s Place
1204 NW 21st Ave. (503) 243-2403
Vitaly and Kimberly Paley use local ingredients at this excellent, upscale restaurant. Here you will find dishes like roast lamb with white beans, veal sweetbreads with truffle sauce, and duck confit with figs. In addition you will find local vegetables and lots of fresh seafood. Desserts are crafted by an in-house pastry chef, and the service is outstanding. You can enjoy this wonderful cuisine via the front porch, open air patio, bar/bistro, or in one of two dining rooms. Wines are French and Oregonian. You will love this place!

Caprial’s Bistro
7015 SE Milwaukie Ave. (503) 236-6457
Wonderful bistro-style restaurant with an open kitchen, full bar, and private dining room. This is seasonal Northwest cuisine at its finest. Always a lively atmosphere and a list of over 300 wines, many of which line the walls. Owners John and Caprial Pence also offer catering and cooking classes. Definitely upscale dining!

Lucy’s Table
704 NW 21st Ave. (503) 226-6126
Chef Mike Conklin uses fresh produce, seafood, and meats to create signature Northwest dishes such as Goat Cheese Ravioli with Crispy Shallots and Pancetta, Roasted Red Beet and Pear Salad, and Braised Rabbit with Crispy Polenta. The menu highlights American cuisine with Italian and French influences. Lucy’s Place boasts a great wine list, romantic atmosphere, and wonderful desserts.

Besaw’s Café
2301 NW Savier (503) 228-2619
Everyone goes here for brunch! You will love the house-smoked wild salmon scramble, Belgian waffles, and homestyle lunch items such as burgers with bleu cheese, bacon and sautéed mushrooms and Swiss.

Typhoon
2310 NW Everett St. (503) 243-7557
Friendly staff serve up Thai comfort food with rich flavors and intense heat at this upscale Thai restaurant. Chef Bo Lohasawat Kline is an award-winning chef as well. Be sure to try the miang kum, which is a sweet and spicy hors d’oeuvre that has become a signature item on the menu.

Oba
555 NW 12th Ave. (503) 228-6161
The name of this restaurant is Portuguese for “right on!” Chef Scott Newman serves Nuevo Latino cuisine which is a combination of food from South America, Portugal, Central America, Mexico and the American Southwest. Food here is authentic as well as creative. Be sure to try the handmade cocktails (no blenders here!) and some of the world’s finest rums.

Wine Tasting in Portland

2006-05-17T21:12:10Z

It is a well-known fact that Portland is only an hour’s drive from some of the best wineries. However, if you don’t have the time to take a day to drive to the Yamhill County Wineries, visitors in Portland can still take advantage of wine tasting, blending wines, and a touch of the winery at Urban Wineworks which is located at 407 NW 16th Avenue. You can sample Bishop Creek Cellars premium wines and learn about wine through a series wine classes too. Phone: (503) 226-9799.

Land of Microbrews: Breweries in Portland

2006-05-17T21:12:44Z

Portland is also known for their microbrews. Here’s a list of craft breweries that you might want to visit while in Portland.

BridgePort Brewing Company & BrewPub
The Pearl District
1313 N.W. Marshall St.
(503) 241-7179
This brewery is Portland’s oldest. Here you can learn about beer made in the English tradition. Includes on-site bakery, espresso bar, atrium, a two-story main bar with five stainless-steel 300-gallon serving tanks, and a rooftop bar. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to its main location, BridgePort also maintains the BridgePort Ale House.

BridgePort Ale House
Hawthorne District
3632 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.
(503) 233-6540
Here visitors can sample the brewery’s popular brews which include: Blue Heron, Ropewalk Amber Ale, India Pale Ale and Old Knucklehead. Cask-conditioned ales, which are drawn from a firkin (a small English-style keg), can also be ordered here. Enjoy lunch and dinner menus and brunch on weekends.

Laurelwood NW Public House
Northwest Portland/Nob Hill Neighborhood
2327 N.W. Kearney St.
(503) 228-5553
Located in a Victorian-era home, here you can find seven Laurelwood brews and one seasonal beer on tap. Located in Portland’s Nob Hill neighborhood, this satellite pub has the same full menu (excluding breakfast) as the original Laurelwood Public House & Brewery.

The New Old Lompoc
Northwest Portland/Nob Hill Neighborhood
1616 N.W. 23rd Ave.
(503) 225-1855
This is the “New” Old Lompoc since 2000 under the ownership of Don Younger, owner of the legendary Horse Brass Pub. Brewery is located in a 1912 building with a creaky wooden floor, which adds to the funky, eclectic ambiance. Brews an average of 10 ales and lagers and serves four other craft beers on guest taps. On warm, sunny days, check out the hidden beer garden out in back.
For all you trivia buffs, W. C. Fields’ 1940 film, “The Bank Dick,” about a heavy-drinking bank detective, was set ironically in Lompoc, CA, a town founded as a temperance colony. The hotel in the film was named The New Old Lompoc House.

Lompoc Hedge House
Richmond Neighborhood
3412 S.E. Division St.
(503) 235-2215
The Hedge House is The New Old Lompoc’s satellite location. Tucked into an old house turned cozy pub, visitors can enjoy Lompoc beers outside on the large deck.

Widmer Brothers Brewing Company/Widmer Brothers Gasthaus Brew Pub
Eliot Neighborhood
Brewery: 929 N. Russell St., Portland, OR 97227
Gasthaus: 955 N. Russell St., Portland, OR 97227
(503) 281-2437 (office/brewery), (503) 281-3333 (Gasthaus)
Owners Kurt and Rob Widmer are beer legends here. Known as some of the pioneers of the craft beer renaissance, they grew from a small operation in 1984 to become Oregon’s largest brewery and the 18th largest in the nation. Known for their award-winning Hefeweizen, which is still the best-selling craft beer in Oregon. The Gasthaus, which is across the street from the brewery, serves burgers and German cuisine including schnitzel, fondue and sausages cooked in Widmer’s pale ale.

McMenamins Pubs and Breweries
Headquarters:
1624 N.W. Glisan St., Portland, OR 97209
(503) 223-0109
McMenamins has a plethora of pubs and breweries all over Washington and Oregon. There are approximately 60 locations in both states. Be sure to visit one of their many locations. Here are a few located in Portland.

Hillsdale Brewery & Public House
Hillsdale/Southwest Portland
1505 S.W. Sunset Blvd.
(503) 246-3938
This was Portland’s first post-Prohibition brewery. Artwork covers walls, ceilings, doors, pipes and everything else imaginable. McMenamins classic beers — raspberry-tinged Ruby, medium-bodied Hammerhead, and strong, dark Terminator Stout are always available.

McMenamins Edgefield
Troutdale, Oregon (near the entrance to the Columbia River Gorge)
2126 S.W. Halsey St., Troutdale, OR 97060
(503) 669-8610
McMenamins Edgefield is a 38-acre beer-lovers’ resort. Formerly the Multnomah County Poor Farm, this National Historic Landmark property features 100 European-style bed-and-breakfast rooms, an on-site brewery, winery and distillery, theater, golf course, restaurants and bars, meeting rooms and gardens. Has lots of character and lots to do!

McMenamins Kennedy School
Northeast Portland
5736 N.E. 33rd Ave.
(503) 249-3983
The Kennedy School is another historic McMenamins’ property. At this former 1912 grade school, you can sleep in former classrooms at the onsite bed-and-breakfast and drink in the former janitor’s closet, which is now a hole-in-the-wall bar.

Sources:
www.travelportland.com
www.besaws.com
www.urbanwineworks.com

Portland Vacations: 1 to 3 Day Itinerary Overview

2006-05-18T14:39:31Z

Portland is located in the scenic Willamette Valley. One of the best things about Portland is its location among beautiful wilderness areas, including massive expanses of beautiful forests, rivers, hills, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean.

You can stay busy in Portland for weeks enjoying this beautiful scenery and all the attractions available. However, if you are there for only a few days, make sure you see the following attractions.

Day One: Gardens in Portland and Forestry Museum

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International Rose Test Garden
This beautiful rose garden is maintained by the Portland Rose Society. Free tours are available and are led by trained volunteers. Park includes fountains, paths, picnic tables, public garden, rose garden, art, vista point and wedding site (can be reserved). Location: Washington Park

Japanese Garden
This is Portland’s internationally recognized Japanese garden which was designed in 1963 by Professor Takuma Tono, an internationally renowned authority on Japanese garden landscaping. Five formal garden styles can be found here: the Strolling Pond Garden, the Natural Garden, the Sand and Stone Garden, the Flat Garden, and the Tea Garden. Has a wonderful vista across the city of Portland toward the Cascade Mountains and Mount Hood. Location: West side of Washington Park, above the International Rose Test Gardens

Portland Classical Chinese Gardens
This garden, based on a garden built in Suzhou during the Ming Dynasty, was built to honor the sisterhood between the city of Portland and the city of Suzhou, China. Most of the plants in the garden are indigenous to China, but they were all grown in the U.S. Many of the materials used to build the garden originated in China. Some plants are more than 100 years old and were transplanted from gardens and nurseries in Oregon. Guided public tours are available. Location: NW 3rd & Everett

The Grotto
Here you will find more than 100 beautifully sculpted statues and shrines among 62 acres of botanical gardens. This internationally renowned Catholic sanctuary offers a place of peace and reflection. Enjoy reflection ponds, cliffside vistas, award-winning architecture, and gardens. Group tours and daily Mass offered. Location: Sandy Blvd. at Northeast 85th Ave.

World Forestry Center Discovery Museum
Visit this 20,000-square-foot museum to learn about the sustainability of forests and trees of the Pacific Northwest and around the world. Features hands-on, interactive exhibits for the whole family. Enjoy the Cascadian style architecture and intricate hand carvings. Location: Washington Park

Day Two: Explore History and Art in Portland

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Pittock Mansion
Come see this 16,000-square-foot mansion with 44 rooms (you can see 23) in Portland’s West Hills. This mansion was home to Portland pioneers Henry and Georgiana Pittock from 1914 to 1919. You will enjoy the architecture and stunning views. This is a walking tour that can take 45 minutes up to 2 hours. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch and have lunch on the grounds. Don’t miss seeing the outbuildings as well. The gate lodge and garage are great too! Location: 3229 NW Pittock Dr.

Oregon Historical Society
Come see the Oregon Historical Society Museum and Research Library. Artifacts collection consists of over 85,000 artifacts. See a collection of priceless art, artifacts, photographs and films that tell the story of Oregon from its earliest days to the present. The Research Library contains one of the country’s most extensive collections of state history materials. Location: 1200 SW Park Ave.

Portland Art Museum
Come visit one of the 25 largest museums in the country. The Portland Art Museum is the oldest museum in the Pacific Northwest. Diverse collection numbering over 35,000 objects and works of art. Features impressive touring exhibitions and permanent collections of American painting and sculpture, European painting and sculpture, Asian art, Native American art, Pre-Columbian art, Cameroon and other African art, and contemporary art. Location: 1219 SW Park Ave.

End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
Here you can experience the adventure of the 2,000-mile Oregon Trail journey. Features living history presentations, storytelling, films, exhibits, and hands-on pioneer living activities. Relive the days when more than 30,000 people traveled the Oregon Trail in search of a brand new life. Guided tours available daily. Location: 1726 Washington St.

Day Three: Activities for the Kids and Shopping

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OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry)
Explore math, science, and technology here. Permanent exhibits include the Life Science exhibit and various labs where kids can do experiments and learn about chemistry and biology. Attractions include a planetarium, OMNIMAX Theater, and the USS Blueback Submarine. Location: 1945 SE Water Ave.

Oregon Zoo
Come see creatures from around the globe and enjoy the zoo’s nationally recognized educational programs. You will find 64 acres of wildlife. The zoo’s star is Packy, their Asian elephant. The zoo is known internationally for the most successful breeding herd of Asian elephants of any zoo. Location: 4001 SW Canyon Rd.

Portland Children’s Museum
Here kids of all ages can enjoy activities of all kinds. They can put on their own show, dance, dress up, and make music. They can also experiment with water and clay, sculpt, paint, draw, or sew. When they are finished with that, they can also have a puppet show and relax at story time. They won’t be bored while here! Location: Washington Park

Pearl District
This is a great part of the city where you can spend part of a day. Here you will find upscale shopping, great restaurants, wine bars, art galleries, and more. You can also experience First Thursday, a monthly celebration of art and urban culture. Location: North of downtown between Burnside and the Willamette River

Portland Saturday Market
Every weekend (Saturday and Sunday) from March through Christmas Eve, you can shop the Portland Saturday Market for crafts, pottery, jewelry, toys, and much more made by local artisans. There’s also live music, an international food court, and craft-making for kids. Location: Under the west side of the Burnside Bridge

Powell’s Books
This store takes up an entire city block! Be sure you get a map on the main floor so you can find your way around. Powell’s is the largest independent book store in the world. This is a must to experience Portland! Powell’s prides itself in offering an enormous selection of books while keeping it personal. It stands 4 stories high and books are stacked to the ceiling! Contains a coffee shop and don’t mind you eating while you browse. Has an extensive collection of rare and collectible books and features reading and book signings by prominent authors. Location: 1005 Burnside

Lloyd Center
Come shop and play at the largest mall in Oregon. Mall covers over 50 acres and offers tax-free shopping at more than 200 specialty shops and service providers. Inside you will find a food court, indoor ice-skating rink, 18 movie screens, restaurants, and entertainment. Location: Northeast Ninth Ave. at Multnomah St.

For lunch or dinner – Take a Cruise

Portland Spirit
This is an excellent way to see Portland—by water! Enjoy riverboat dining aboard the Portland Spirit. Has room for 350 guests for seated meal cruises. Offers Willamette River cruises and Columbia River cruises aboard the Portland Spirit and her sister ships, the Willamette Star, the Crystal Dolphin, and the Outrageous Jetboat. Your dining experience aboard the Portland Spirit includes fresh Northwest cuisine prepared onboard, excellent service, great views of Portland’s downtown skyline, and live entertainment. You can choose a lunch cruise, dinner cruise, or brunch cruise or you can simply take a sightseeing tour to enjoy the views. For reservations: (503) 224-3900

Sources:
www.japanesegarden.com
www.portlandchinesegarden.org
www.about.com
www.portlandspirit.com
www.bootsnall.com
www.oregon.com
www.pova.com
www.portlandartmuseum.org
www.ohs.org

Portland - Real Estate

2006-08-03T19:20:02Z

Portland - Hotels and Accommodations

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Portland Restaurants and Entertainment

2006-08-03T19:29:00Z

Portland Vacations: 1 to 3 Day Itinerary

2006-08-03T19:45:15Z

Beginner's Guide to Oregon

Southeast Portland Neighborhoods

Northeast Portland Neighborhoods

North Portland Neighborhoods

Portland Restaurants and Entertainment Overview

Restaurants: Best of Portland

Wine Tasting in Portland

Land of Microbrews: Breweries in Portland

Portland Vacations: 1 to 3 Day Itinerary Overview

Day One: Gardens in Portland and Forestry Museum

Day Two: Explore History and Art in Portland

Day Three: Activities for the Kids and Shopping

Portland - Real Estate

Portland - Real Estate Overview

Downtown Neighborhoods

Southwest Portland Neighborhoods

West Hills Neighborhoods

Portland - Hotels and Accommodations

Portland - Hotels and Accommodations Overview

Price Level - High

Price Level: Mid

Price Level: Low

Portland Restaurants and Entertainment

Portland Restaurants and Entertainment Overview

Restaurants: Best of Portland

Wine Tasting in Portland

Land of Microbrews: Breweries in Portland

Portland Vacations: 1 to 3 Day Itinerary

Portland Vacations: 1 to 3 Day Itinerary Overview

Day One: Gardens in Portland and Forestry Museum

Day Two: Explore History and Art in Portland

Day Three: Activities for the Kids and Shopping