Portland, OR
Books, beer, and bridges. In that order.
Portland is the most affordable interesting city on the West Coast. Powell's Books is an entire city block, the food cart scene is unmatched, and you can visit a moss-covered castle ruin in a 5,200-acre urban forest. The brewery density means you're never more than 3 blocks from something good on tap.
Local tip
First Thursday Art Walk in the Pearl District: every gallery opens its doors, free wine, free art, free evening. The best free night out in Portland.
Known for
Neighborhoods
City League
Play daily games about Portland, OR →Recently added
Powell's City of Books
Entire city block of books — nine color-coded rooms, free to browse
Portland Art Museum
Kids 17 and under always free; First Thursdays free for everyone
McMenamins Crystal Ballroom
The dance floor literally bounces — mechanical floating floor from 1914
McMenamins Kennedy School
Drink in the old detention room of a 1915 elementary school
Portland Japanese Garden
Eight garden styles across 12 acres — Kengo Kuma cultural village
Pittock Mansion
Grounds are free — Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens views from 1,000 feet up