Top 10 Hidden Gems

Our Local Expert Says:

For a truly unique experience in Portland; climb to the top of Mount Tabor Park for sunset.

Description:

Mount Tabor is a place well-loved by locals. You can hike, bike, or rollarblade up this urban volcano with the best of them, or drive up and enjoy the little hikes through beautiful redwoods. Either way, Mount Tabor is underrated and definitely not to be missed!

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

This impressively statuesque library shouldn't be missed. Local Portlanders, both young and old, hang out here all day.

Description:

The Multnomah County Central Library is easily one of the most beautiful buildings in Downtown Portland. As Portland's oldest library, take a walk through the elegant foyer to view the hand-carved marble staircase. If you have children, don't miss the Beverly Cleary children's library.

Our Local Expert Says:

Although the Classical Chinese Garden is in the most run-down section of Downtown Portland, upon entering this Garden you'll feel you've stepped into an oasis. It is truly worth a look.

Description:

The Classical Chinese Garden is one of the more interesting spots in Downtown Portland. It is located in the heard of Chinatown, and was originally an effort to beautify this struggling section of Portland. Although the area still has its demons, the Classical Chinese Garden is a city oasis. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $5.50 for students with children under 5 free.

Our Local Expert Says:

Located just outside of Portland, upon entering this park you'll feel you've entered another world.

Description:

Forest Park, the largest municipal park in the nature, is a great spot for hiking, biking, and jogging on a clear day in Portland. This 5,000 acre park is a must-see for all nature lovers visiting the area. The fir trees and abundant plant life make this park feel other-worldly. Extra points if you can find the picnic tables buried in moss.

Description:

From the Tamanawas Falls parking area, cross the East Fork of the Hood River on a log bridge and turn right (north) on the East Fork Trail #650. The trail continues along the west bank of the river for half a mile to a junction with the Tamanawas Falls Trail #650A. Continue straight ahead on this trail, cross Cold Spring Creek on a plank bridge and turn left. Another quarter mile brings you to a junction with the Tamanawas Tie trail #650B. Turn left and cross the stream on a log bridge. The trail then follows the south bank a short distance and after descending a series of log steps, crosses back to the north bank. From here, the trail climbs through a talus slope and in a quarter mile reaches the falls.

Note: Optional Five mile Loop: After visiting the falls, hikers may choose to vary the return route by taking the Tamanawas Tie trail. This trail climbs gently out of the canyon and after a half mile reaches a junction with the Elk Meadows Trail #645. Turn right and follow this trail downhill for a mile and a quarter to a junction with the East Fork trail just above the Polallie trailhead parking area. If you have not arranged to be picked up here, turn right and follow the East Fork...

Description:

Nature lovers will find their own piece of wild in the city when they visit Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. Located on the east bank of the Willamette River, adjacent to the Sellwood District, this 163-acre wildlife refuge attracts a variety of ducks, blue herons and raptors. Hiking trails lead you through the refuge where you can observe these birds in a natural setting. While you are in this area you may also want to visit Oaks Park. There are no fees to use this refuge.

Description:

Completed in 1925, the narrow, two-lane bridge is often the last chance to cross the river as you move south out of Portland. While in need of upgrade, the rickety old bridge is supposedly the most-used two-lane bridge in the state. To the north is an incredible view of downtown, to the south is the winding Willamette. Unfortunately, the only way to really enjoy this bridge and the views is to drive across. There is plenty of history in this bridge-portions were originally used for the Burnside Bridge.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Sellwood District has great shops, restaurants, and relaxing bars. A fun place for sure.

Description:

The Sellwood District is locally known as one of the best places to go antiquing and boutique-ing in Portland. Right above the Sellwood riverfront, this area boasts old historic homes and stores. Also called "Antique Row", each building is different from the next, creating an old-world charm that is unique to this specific are of Portland.