Green Travel in Portland

Description:

Located a block from Pioneer Courthouse Square and within a few blocks of the best downtown shopping, this unpretentious yet sophisticated hotel is housed in what was originally a department store. Artwork by Northwest artists fills the lobby, and in the afternoon there are complimentary tastings of Oregon and other wines. Guest rooms, most of which are suites, are done in a whimsical decor -- striped wallpaper, big padded headboards on the beds, red couches. In other words, colors and patterns everywhere, but it all comes together in a pleasantly theatrical fashion that makes these some of my favorite rooms in Portland. Plus, bathrooms have lots of counter space. In the suites, sliding French doors with curtains divide the living room from the bedrooms.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Japanese Garden is like walking through another world. You won't be disappointed.

Description:

A work of art in itself, Portland's Japanese Garden is the largest in the United States, and is located just outside Downtown Portland. Only 40 years old, this quiet attraction is not to be missed. A beautiful oasis in Portland, it is easy to see how much time and energy Portland dedicates to the outdoors.

Description:

Papa G's Vegan Organic Deli, located in the heart of the Southeast, serves its' eclectic crowd only the freshest and best lunches and dinners. For a unique dining experience, sample the Sheperd's Pie and wash it down with a tall glass of House-made Fresh Organic Coconut Kefir, made with only local and seasonal fruits. To find out what all the fuss is about- try the Kombucha, made out of a Chinese bacteria culture.

Description:

The street level of the Hotel Vintage Plaza is just as upbeat as the city outside. This restaurant adds many special touches to your dining experience, from the marble floor and wood-burning grill in the dining room to the romantic wine cellar downstairs. The restaurant bar, decorated with garlic, also serves the full menu. Private dining is also available for groups of up to 100. Ingenious pasta recipes like Spaghetti con Funghi e Pancetta Affumicata (wild mushrooms and smoked bacon) will whet your appetite, but the Ravioli di Salmone is the restaurant's trademark.

Description:

Located a block from Pioneer Courthouse Square and within a few blocks of the best downtown shopping, this unpretentious yet sophisticated hotel is housed in what was originally a department store. Artwork by Northwest artists fills the lobby, and in the afternoon there are complimentary tastings of Oregon and other wines. Guest rooms, most of which are suites, are done in a whimsical decor -- striped wallpaper, big padded headboards on the beds, red couches. In other words, colors and patterns everywhere, but it all comes together in a pleasantly theatrical fashion that makes these some of my favorite rooms in Portland. Plus, bathrooms have lots of counter space. In the suites, sliding French doors with curtains divide the living room from the bedrooms.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Saturday Market is one of the best spots to spend a weekend morning in Portland. It is deceiving however; the Saturday Market actually takes place on both Saturday and Sunday.

Description:

The Saturday Market is a great place to explore the local arts and crafts of Portland. From homemade soaps to glassblowers, this craft fair is one of the most unique on the West Coast. HOURS: Sa 10a-5p and Su 11a-4:30p.

Description:

The Springwater Corridor Trail is one of the best places in Portland to visit on a bright sunny day. Whether you're a biker or an avid pedestrian, it is worth spending a day exploring the trail. Pick and eat local Oregon blackberries while you're exploring the animals and plants native to Oregon. In particular, the wildlife refuge makes this trip even more memorable.

Description:

The long drought of decent late-night pizza in Portland has finally ended. Hammy's now delivers 16" pizzas when you really need them. They have a spectacular cheese blend, fresh spices, and decedent toppings such as the Greek olive mix. Committed to sustainability, they make fresh dough everyday from local, organic flours. Toppings are also local, organic and seasonal wherever possible. Their signature Breakfast Pie with eggs and roasted potatoes is perfect for sopping up that one drink too many at the bar. Generous personal pies, fresh salads, homemade minestrone and sweet almond calzones are also available at surprisingly reasonable prices. - Marie Richie

Description:

Located a block from Pioneer Courthouse Square and within a few blocks of the best downtown shopping, this unpretentious yet sophisticated hotel is housed in what was originally a department store. Artwork by Northwest artists fills the lobby, and in the afternoon there are complimentary tastings of Oregon and other wines. Guest rooms, most of which are suites, are done in a whimsical decor -- striped wallpaper, big padded headboards on the beds, red couches. In other words, colors and patterns everywhere, but it all comes together in a pleasantly theatrical fashion that makes these some of my favorite rooms in Portland. Plus, bathrooms have lots of counter space. In the suites, sliding French doors with curtains divide the living room from the bedrooms.

Description:

Located in a Victorian-era house, Paley's is another favorite of Portland foodies. Chef Vitaly Paley continues to receive accolades year after year, and back in 2005 he won a James Beard Foundation Award. The menu relies extensively on the freshest local organic ingredients and ranges from traditional bistro fare to dishes with complex flavors and a hint of Northwest inspiration. Whether you're in the mood for spit-roasted suckling lamb, braised elk shoulder, or corn-and-chanterelle ravioli, you'll certainly find something that appeals to you. If you've never tried sweetbreads, this is the place to do so, and the signature frites, with a mustard aioli, are not to be missed. Big on wines, Paley's offers wine tastings on Wednesdays. For dessert, I can't pass up the warm chocolate soufflé cake with outrageously rich house-made ice cream. Inside, the restaurant is small and stylishly comfortable but can be quite noisy.