Portland, OR

Dates travelled

Many times starting from 2024 to present. I lost track.

First impressions

The Max is weirdly far from the Amtrak station.

I don't know why they call the Max "light rail." It's a streetcar with delusions of grandeur. It is also frequently down. Plan accordingly.

I got asked if I had any drugs to buy immediately the third time I went. Very Portland.

Highlights

• Portland has a nice waterfront.
• Getting around Portland isn't difficult but I would avoid Old Town Chinatown and Union Station at night. Have your wits about you.
• Portland is Ground Zero for America's homelessness crisis and it is unavoidable. Don't start any trouble and ignore anyone yelling at you, and you'll be fine.
• Portland's night life is very good.
• I would say Portland has one of the best food scenes in the PNW, on par with Vancouver. Way better than Seattle's.

Food and drink

I liked these places:

• The Coffin — fun little goth bar
• PDX Sliders
• Screen Door Eastside
• Try any of the local food carts. Just do it.
• Any of the local pizza joints — Portland pizza slaps.

Getting around

Getting around Portland isn't too difficult. Public transit quality is about the same as Seattle. There is a more expansive rail network, but the main issue is bus frequency is not as much as Seattle, so it evens out.

Would I go back?

Absolutely. Portland is a fun place to visit and I love visiting every so often.