The Local’s Guide to a Weekend in Portland – Interactive Map
September's here, but summer isn’t over just yet! If you’re taking a weekend trip to the Rose City, consider checking out these 10 must-see spots straight from our Portland local, Emma. Check out the interactive map above!
Treats, Eats & Drinks
Located in the heart of the Pearl District, this Jalisco-style Taqueria is home to Portland’s birria masters. If you haven’t tried birria yet, this is the place to do it! Papi Chulo’s offers birria tacos or burritos, alongside vegetarian and vegan options. Plus, their handmade tortillas are gluten-free & organic.
This lowkey bourbon lounge is located in a Victorian-era house with decor straight out of Kentucky. Find derby photos and horseshoe medals lining the walls of the upstairs lounge and speakeasy vibes in the basement downstairs. Stop in for happy hour from 4 - 7 p.m., and be sure to try their southern-influenced dishes.
Named after the Southern Thai City of Hat Yai near the Malaysian border, this restaurant is inspired by the streetside fried chicken vendors and small curry and roti shops of Southern Thailand. They make their roti in-house daily and serve a menu with dishes inspired by the flavors of Southern Thailand. Don’t miss out on the mango sticky rice!
With windows opening out to the busy corner of NW 23rd and Quimby, the Matador is at the epicenter of NW Portland. Located in a former distillery, this restaurant and bar is bright and airy by day and lively by night. You won’t want to miss this spot specializing in seasonal Mexican food, cocktails & tequila. Snag a seat by one of the indoor fire pits if you can!
Finally, if you've got room for dessert, check out this not-so-average frozen yogurt spot! Find local organic dairy-based and plant-based frozen yogurt, creative gourmet toppings, and delectable sauces. Be sure to check out their rotating seasonal flavors, or grab a hand-packed pint or frozen yogurt sandwich to go.
Activities & Hangout Spots
The beloved Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is home to a world of interchanging exhibits, movies and interactive science adventures. Stop by the planetarium in the afternoon to learn about the wonders of space, or check it out after dark on Fridays and Saturdays for psychedelic laser shows set to the music of Prince or Pink Floyd.
Head over to this Portland landmark to catch cinema classics on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, or contemporary films all week. There’s always something new to discover from the wide array of curated programs. Check them all out here! Be sure to try the popcorn, voted the best in Portland, and grab a slice of Sizzle Pie pizza from the theater’s “Pie Hole.”
This tram connects the OHSU main campus to the South Waterfront. Built to manage traffic heading in and out of Marquam Hill, it offers stunning views of Downtown Portland. At the top, explore the largest enclosed sky bridge in North America. If you want to make it a whole day adventure, try out the 4T trail.
Afterward, head to this riverfront park to relax and unwind. Hang out in the grassy area with snacks, or take a plunge in the Willamette river. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, picnic or take a walk, the Sellwood Riverfront’s got you covered.
Housed in a giant red warehouse, Hollywood Vintage is not your average thrift store. With vendors catering to every type of aesthetic (even those you haven’t heard of), this store is a wonderland for anyone who loves shopping secondhand. Find antiques, art, gifts, jewelry, furniture, apparel + more!
Where are you most excited to go next? Let us know on Instagram! Feeling inspired to make your own map? Check out Proxi, the latest interactive map tool.