I love shopping and honestly think there’s nothing quite like a bit of retail therapy and whether you’re looking to upgrade your wardrobe or want to browse shelves of unique handicrafts, Portland really has it all. From the mainstream to the off-beat, here are my personal best and most awesome places to shop in Portland, Oregon…
Pearl District Northwest
The Pearl District, located on the banks of the Willamette River, used to be an industrial warehouse destination. Like most relics of Portland’s industrial past, it has become a glamorous neighborhood of modern lofts, trendy bars, and stylish shops.
Stroll through the pedestrian-friendly Pearl District, and you’ll find warehouses converted into spacious shops. If you’re looking for popular chain retailers, you’ll find plenty of those, but while in Portland, why not check out some local boutiques? I’d suggest heading to the iconic Powell’s City of Books, Recycled Chic Boutique, and Keen Footwear which are all my personal favorites!
Pros
A mix of hip brands and local boutiques
Art galleries for culture enthusiasts
Modern loft-style architecture
Pedestrian-friendly for leisurely walks
Nearby Attractions
Willamette River
The Hoxton Hotel
Must Do Things
Explore Powell's City of Books
Visit Recycled Chic Boutique for unique fashion finds
Facilities
Provides an LGBTQ+-friendly transgender safe space
A large variety of shopping centres and dine-ins
Pioneer Place
Pioneer Place redefines what it means to be an urban shopping mall. It blends the convenience and excellent selection that you would expect from an upscale mall with funky design you could only find in downtown Portland’s business district.
Stretched over four buildings connected with skywalks and underground shopping sections, you can find almost anything at Pioneer Place.
Besides typical stores you would expect at any mall, you can also find upscale designers such as Tory Burch at Pioneer Place. Stop by one of the many fast-casual dining options when you’re all shopped out. There is even an in-house movie theatre.
Pros
Is home to a wide range of luxury retail outlets
Diverse shopping options
Extended weekend hours
Skywalks and Underground connections
Cons
It closes relatively early in the evening
Limited outdoor space
Nearby Attractions
Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Powell's City of Books
Must Do Things
Dine at Ritzy Eateries
Explore the Skywalks
Facilities
Diverse dinning options
Many nearby sightseeing opportunities
Northeast Alberta Street
Northeast Alberta Street is one of the best places to shop in Portland for art lovers and creatives. This street is in the Alberta Arts District, part of revitalized Northeast Portland.
Any time you come to this street, you can browse shops selling the work of local artists as well as funky objects such as tiny survival tools at Cord.
The best time to visit Alberta Street is during Last Thursday, an art walk organized once a month. That’s when you see the true weirdness that helps fuel Portland’s beating heart. Check out art shows, receptions hosted by local businesses, and live performances.
Pros
Unique Artisan Goods
Trendy Clothing Selection
Vibrant Art Walk Events
Bohemian Shopping Experience
Cons
Limited Parking Space
Crowded During Events
Nearby Attractions
Broughton Beach Park
Baba's Mediterranean Grill
Must Do Things
Visit Alberta Arts District shops showcasing work by local artists.
Visit during Last Thursday for art
music
and performances.
Facilities
Play different sports in the Alberta Park.
Provides a variety of organic products.
Uptown Shopping Center
On the border between Portland’s city center and the affluent area of West Hills, Uptown Shopping Center is one of Oregon’s oldest and best centers for shopping until you drop.
The center’s major draw is that you can meet your daily needs by shopping at the large grocery store, one of the only ones of its size in Portland’s center, and shopping for luxury items such as clothing and home goods.
The major draw of Uptown Shopping Center is Zupan’s Market, a local Portland chain of grocery stores specializing in locally sourced foods and unique global fare. The center also has a pharmacy for healthcare needs and clothing chains such as Chico’s.
Pros
A mix of everyday and upscale shopping
Grocery and pharmacy anchors
Convenient urban location
Unique bespoke retailers
Cons
Closes early at 2 pm
Bespoke garments are pretty expensive
Parking may be limited
Nearby Attractions
Stearns Canyon Trails
Coming of the White Man Statue
Thai Bloom!
Must Do Things
Explore Zupan's Market for local and global gourmet foods.
Shop for luxury clothing and home goods in the center.
Stroll through the Uptown District for charming boutiques and cafes.
Facilities
Wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance.
Stearns Canyon Trails nearby.
Portland Saturday Market
If you’re looking for a unique gift or want to browse what the artisans of Portland are up to, then there is no better place to go than the Portland Saturday Market.
The country’s largest continuously operating arts and crafts market usually has hundreds of vendors selling everything from paintings and pottery to supplies for magical rituals.
Besides unique things, the Portland Saturday Market offers a unique shopping experience. Wander around the great outdoors, looking at the different vendors and taking in the live musicians who often perform.
Pros
Board range of Handicrafts like jewelry and woodcrafts
Ideal place for art lovers
Promotes work of local artists
Enjoy beautiful views of the Willamette River
Cons
Is only open on Saturdays
Limited operating season
Nearby Attractions
Willamette River
Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Must Do Things
Gain insights into the city's vibrant arts scene
Dwell into the historic charm of the place
Facilities
Flexible arrangements for seating
Nearby food stalls
Jantzen Beach Center
Jantzen Beach Center was an amusement park now one of Portland’s top shopping destinations. Although the vintage carousel is sadly still in storage off-premises, you can get your kicks by shopping instead of riding.
The outdoor shopping center has popular stores such as TJ Maxx, Home Depot, and HomeGoods. You can get anything you need for the whole family, including your pets and home.
Jantzen Beach Center also has popular fast-casual chains such as Panera Bread and Cracker Barrel.
Pros
Scenic location by the river
Offers a high-quality brand selection
Variety of retail and services
Provides an outdoor shopping experience
Nearby Attractions
Rodeway Inn & Suites Portland
Jantzen Beach RV Park
Picasso Pizza Co
Must Do Things
Shop for family and home essentials.
Enjoy fast-casual dining at Panera Bread or Cracker Barrel.
Facilities
Nestles between a variety of shopping centres.
Provides a two-sided view of The Colombia River.
North Mississippi Avenue
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience that you can’t find at a typical mall, then check out North Mississippi Avenue, one of Portland’s premier urban shopping districts.
This stretch of street in North Portland is packed with local businesses. Besides retailers selling clothes and other goods, check out quirkier shops such as Sunlan Lighting, which specializes in lightbulbs, or Mississippi Records, the go-to shop for local music nerds.
This street is also packed with quirky food options, including Prost Marketplace, a collection of food truck vendors. Come back at night to check out the live music.
Pros
Unique boutique shopping
Hip local businesses galore
Vibrant food options
Live music at night
Cons
Crowded during peak times
Noise from live music
Nearby Attractions
Sweedeedee Restaurant
Polaris Hall music venue
Must Do Things
Explore independent boutiques
Visit quirky shops like Sunlan Lighting or Mississippi Records.
Try diverse food options at Prost Marketplace and enjoy live music
Facilities
Nearby cafes and restaurants
Enjoy live music
Portland Farmers Market
If you want to shop for food and drinks rather than clothes, then the Portland Farmers Market is the place to go. The Farmers Market has several outposts throughout the city, but the largest one is near PSU.
Every weekend, vendors from Portland and surrounding farms shop with some of the city’s freshest, most delicious produce.
Besides produce, you can also get other products at the Portland Farmers Market, such as spices, smoked meats, baked goods, and ready-to-eat food.
Whether you plan a picnic later or want some lunch at the moment, you can’t go wrong with visiting the Portland Farmers Market. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, it’s worth walking through and taking in the ambiance.
Pros
Fresh and local produce available
Wide variety of food products
Great for picnics and quick meals
Enjoyable ambience while shopping
Cons
Crowded on Weekends
Weather-dependent outdoor setting
Nearby Attractions
Willamette River
Spring Healing Spa
Must Do Things
Visit the Portland Farmers Market for the freshest local fruits and vegetables
Try the ready-to-eat food and baked goods from local vendors
Facilities
Fresh Local Produce
Ready-to-Eat Food
Northwest 23rd Avenue
Northwest 23rd Avenue is one of Portland’s premier outdoor shopping districts like North Mississippi Avenue. The street’s southern end has many popular national chains if you want something familiar.
However, once you venture north, most of the avenue still belongs to local vendors.
You can buy everything from beauty supplies at Blush Beauty Bar to craft jewelry to pet supplies along one of Portland’s hippest streets. Make frequent stops along the way, and don’t neglect the coffee shops, teahouses, and eateries that can fuel your shopping excursion.
Pros
Diverse local vendor offerings
Variety of unique craft jewelry
Hip and trendy atmosphere
Convenient national retailers nearby
Cons
Can get crowded during peak times
Local vendors may have limited hours
Nearby Attractions
Stepping Stone Cafe
Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center Emergency Room
Serratto Restaurant and Bar
Must Do Things
Explore unique local boutiques
Savor coffee and treats at cozy cafes
Facilities
Boutiques with unique fashion finds
National retailers for familiar shopping
Diverse dining options
coffee shops
and teahouses
Washington Square
Washington Square, a shopping mall located a short drive outside central Portland, is one of the biggest shopping centers in the Pacific Northwest.
The mall has 176 stores, including chains you would expect from every mall and unique finds. You can find everything you need here, from casual clothing to formalwear to new technology.
You need proper fuel to hit all of the stores in Washington Square, which is why the mall also has plenty of dining options, from nationwide favorites such as Auntie Anne’s to smaller businesses selling baked goods, crepes, and cuisine from around the world.
Pros
A wide variety of stores
Houses major retail brands
A diverse array of dining choices
Offers a visitor’s incentive program
Cons
Closes early on Sundays
The location is a bit remote
Nearby Attractions
Din Tai Fung
Build-A-Bear Workshop
Must Do Things
Sample global flavours at diverse dining options
Explore famous department stores and speciality shops
Facilities
Food choices ranging from nationwide favourites to international cuisine
A diverse selection of stores
from well-known chains to unique boutiques
Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard
Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard is one of the best shopping streets if you are looking for the full Portland experience of quirky independent shops, cafes, and more.
This historic district of Portland has many independent stores tucked behind old-fashioned storefronts.
If you want to revamp your outfit sustainably, check out Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard’s many thrift stores, including cult favorite House of Vintage. The street also features plenty of independent bookshops, cafes, and theatres for when you need a rest theatre shopping.
Nearby Attractions
Harlow Health food restaurant
Hawthorne Theatre
Must Do Things
Explore a variety of vintage shops offering unique clothing and collectables from bygone eras
Discover stylish and contemporary boutiques with curated fashion and accessories
Facilities
Explore eclectic vintage shops
Nearby theatres
Savor coffee in hipster-friendly cafes
The Northeast Broadway Neighborhood
The Northeast Broadway neighborhood, or the Lloyd neighborhood, surrounds the Oregon Convention Center. If you’re looking for a traditional mall experience, check out Lloyd Center, the largest mall in Oregon.
If you want a more authentic Portland shopping experience, stroll down Northeast Broadway, which has independent specialty shops for all kinds of products.
Bookworms will flock to Broadway Books, while you can pick up funky gifts for friends at home at Elmer’s Flag and Banner, a quirky flag store.
Pros
Independent specialty shops
Unique and quirky gift options
Proximity to Oregon Convention Center
Authentic Portland shopping experience
Cons
Potential crowded sidewalks
Some shops may have limited hours
Nearby Attractions
Sushi Edo restaurant
The Boeing Company
Frito-Lay
Must Do Things
Explore unique boutiques on Northeast Broadway
Visit Broadway Books for book enthusiasts
Facilities
Independent specialty shops on Northeast Broadway
Wilkes Community Group
Bridgeport Village
One of the area’s best shopping destinations is just outside of Portland. Bridgeport Village, located in the Portland suburb of Tigard, is a shopping center packed with options for shopping and entertainment.
The self-described lifestyle center has over 75 shops, including popular chains such as Crate & Barrel, Talbots, and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF FIFTH.
Even if you aren’t interested in shopping, Bridgeport Village is a fun afternoon. You can walk around the pleasant pedestrian paths that lead to an Italian-inspired gazebo, catch a movie at Regal Cinemas, and enjoy little touches of luxury, such as free umbrellas (a necessity in rainy Portland).
Pros
Exclusive boutiques and stores
Largest IMAX theater in Oregon
Special concierge services for kids and pets
Diverse brand selection and great location
Nearby Attractions
Motel 6 Portland
Pastini
The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport
Must Do Things
Stroll through charming pedestrian paths and visit the Italian-inspired gazebo
Shop at High-End Boutiques
Catch a Movie at Regal Cinemas
Facilities
Diverse Shopping Options
Entertainment and Dining Choices
Multnomah Village
When you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Portland, take a trip to Multnomah Village, a charming residential suburb Southwest of the city.
The quaint, old-world-like charm of the town features a vibrant small business scene, including restaurants, galleries, and quirky shops.
In Multnomah Village, you can support local businesses selling everything from books to toys to clothing from independent local designers.
One of the most famous local draws is John’s Marketplace, a shop dedicated to beer that is a must-visit in brew-obsessed Portland.
Pros
Charming old-world ambience
Diverse shopping options
Local craft beer selection
Escape from city hustle
Cons
Limited parking space
Limited dining options
Nearby Attractions
Multnomah Arts Center
Spring Garden Park
Otto & Anita's Schnitzelhaus
Must Do Things
Explore John's Marketplace for unique craft beers
Shop for women's fashion and rustic home decor
Facilities
Enjoy great desserts at a nearby bakery
Nearby arts centre for arts enthusiasts
Northwest 23rd District, Nob Hill
The Nob Hill neighborhood is one of the best places to shop in Portland if you want quaint storefronts and local boutiques.
The Victorian neighborhood has become one of Portland’s most bustling spots.
Some of the best places to shop are boutiques owned by local artisans who sell their wares. Get unique jewelry at Betsy & Iya, buy art at Russo Lee Gallery, or shop for books at the old hippie stalwart New Renaissance Bookshop.
When you’re tired from shopping, grab a bite to eat in Nob Hill’s bustling restaurants.
Pros
Charming Victorian ambiance
Unique local artisan boutiques
Diverse shopping options
Historic and trendy fusion
Cons
Potentially crowded during peak times
Higher price range
Nearby Attractions
Williamete River
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland NW
Must Do Things
Visit Russo Lee Gallery for art enthusiasts
Enjoy a meal at one of the bustling neighborhood restaurants
Facilities
Enjoy nature and hikes in The Forest Park
Quaint local restaurants for dining
West End
West End, a downtown section bordered by Yamhill Street and Park, is one of the best places to shop in Portland if you’re looking for upscale boutiques that still have a bit of that Portland quirky vibe.
The district is like a microcosm of Portland, with everything from DIY stalwarts Tender Loving Empire to retailers selling outdoor apparel to equip hiking-obsessed hippies and the tourists who come to join them.
Locals and tourists alike are flocking to this trendy area.
Pros
Upscale boutiques with a quirky vibe
Catering to outdoor enthusiasts
Blend of local and tourist appeal
Trendy and vibrant atmosphere
Cons
Some shops may be pricey
Can be crowded
Nearby Attractions
Ugly duckling maine coffee shop
West End Inn
Morrill Mansion
Must Do Things
Discover eclectic shops in West End
such as Tender Loving Empire
Shop for outdoor gear ideal for hiking enthusiasts
Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere
Facilities
Western Promenade park to enjoy nature’s beauty
Upscale boutiques and outdoor gear shops
Powell's City of Books
Powell’s City of Books is beloved by bookworms nationwide. This independent bookstore is packed to the rafters with the latest bestsellers and an eclectic collection of used books.
Powell’s is the largest new and used bookstore on the planet.
Bookworms could spend hours browsing the many shelves, but even people who may not consider themselves book lovers will appreciate this insight into one of Portland’s quirkiest shops.
Don’t forget to check out the Rare Book Room or stop by for one of the frequent readings with local and famous authors.
Pros
Hosts vast selection of books
Unique and rare books available
The parking space is large
A wide range of genres is available
Cons
The large size can be overwhelming
The seating areas are limited
Nearby Attractions
Afuri Ramen and Dumplings
Domain Wine Lounge
Classic Control Arcade and Bar
Must Do Things
Explore the Rare Book Room
Attend author readings and events
Facilities
Various eateries nearby to pick a snack while you read
Explore a curated selection of valuable and unique books in the Rare Book Room
Lloyd Center
Lloyd Center is a shopping mall a little way out of downtown Portland. It has many beloved retailers, such as Hot Topic and Torrid, and a well-stocked food court.
However, one of the main draws of the mall does not come in the form of shopping but in the form of skating. Lloyd Center has an indoor ice skating rink where you can rent skates and take lessons or freestyle.
If you’re looking for a fun activity while you shop or even a unique date idea, the Lloyd Center Ice Rink is the place to go.
Pros
Offers educational facilities like Carrington College
Diverse shopping options and stores
Central Location in Portland
Established in 1960
Cons
Loud noise due to ongoing development
Some shops may be closed
Nearby Attractions
Lloyd Athletic Club
Hotel Eastlund
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
Must Do Things
Glide on the indoor ice rink
perfect for all skill levels
Explore 135+ shops
from Hot Topic to Torrid.
Facilities
Indoor ice skating rink for rentals
lessons
and freestyle skating
Diverse shopping options
including popular retailers like Hot Topic and Torrid.
Eastport Plaza Shopping Center
Eastport Plaza Shopping Center is a smaller shopping centre serving the community around Southeast 82nd Avenue. Its primary draw is national chains such as Walmart, GameStop, and Ross Dress for Less.
The shopping centre also has other businesses that cater to people’s needs, such as accountants, dentists, and even a gym.
While this is not the place to go for luxury shopping, it is the place to go to meet your household needs.
Pros
Convenient for daily essentials
Wide range of national chains
Diverse service businesses available
Central location in Southeast Portland
Nearby Attractions
Dollar Tree
Black Rock Coffee Bar
Jack in the Box
Must Do Things
Shop at Walmart for everyday essentials
Explore diverse dining options around Southeast 82nd Avenue
Facilities
National chain stores
Local professional services
Gateway Shopping Center
Gateway Shopping Center is a medium-sized strip mall on NE Halsey Street in Portland. It has popular chains such as Ross Dress for Less, Office Depot, and Kohl’s.
If you want a beauty treatment, the shopping center has a salon, nail salon, and tanning center. Most food offerings are from popular chains such as Starbucks and Quizno’s.
If you want to do affordable shopping, Gateway Shopping Center is your place.
Pros
Convenient location in Portland
Affordable shopping opportunities
On-site beauty and salon services
Known chain stores for reliability
Cons
Limited upscale dining choices
Mostly chain stores
limited uniqueness
Nearby Attractions
Gateway Discovery Park
WinCo Foods
Must Do Things
Shop for discounts at Ross
Enjoy a quick meal at Starbucks.
Facilities
On-site salon
nail salon
and tanning center for personal care services
A variety of fashion retailers with a wide selection of clothing
Multiple dining options
including popular chain restaurants.
Cascade Station
Cascade Station is an outlet center located in Northeast Portland on the way to the airport. The retailers here can sell their goods without tax, so you can find top-brand goods for a much lower price than elsewhere.
The stores at Cascade Station include Carhartt, Banana Republic, and Nordstrom Rack.
Cascade Station’s shops are arranged around a plaza for a pleasant shopping experience. There are also several dining options for when you get tired of shopping.
Pros
A wide range of major retailers
Hotel and dining options
Convenient location near the airport
Offers tax-free shopping options
Cons
Closs at 6 pm during the weekends
Potential crowds due to airport proximity
Nearby Attractions
Hyatt Place Portland
ParkStone Wood Kitchen
Fuller's Burger Shack
Must Do Things
Shop for tax-free deals at Cascade Station outlet stores
Enjoy a meal at one of the diverse dining options.
Facilities
Tax-free shopping for top-brand goods
A pleasant plaza layout for shopping.
Mall 205
Mall 205 is a small enclosed mall in Portland’s Hazelwood neighborhood. It features big chains such as the large DIY store Home Depot and Target as the anchor stores.
If you need to get some paperwork done, a branch of the Oregon DMV is also located in the mall (I would suggest rewarding yourself afterward with a treat at the food court).
Pros
Variety of stores for household and DIY
Convenient location in Hazelwood neighborhood
Major anchor stores like Home Depot and Target
Food court for post-shopping treats
Cons
Limited size compared to larger malls
Limited niche clothing stores
Nearby Attractions
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
Paramount Tattoo Studio
Elmer's Restaurant
Must Do Things
Explore Home Depot for DIY supplies
Shop for clothes at Target
Facilities
Find a wide range of household and clothing items
Visit the Oregon DMV for paperwork convenience.
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Gaby Maia – writer and photographer
Born and raised in Brazil, Gaby has always had a taste for the intriguing, the off-beat and the far flung. After traveling around most of South America, living in Spain and Italy and then moving to England, her feet have stayed continually twitchy. Studying for a degree in Spanish translation and then learning five more languages only poured more fuel onto her traveling ardor. Gaby likes nothing better than discovering new destinations in her spare time and meeting the locals, tasting the cuisine and then writing about her favourite places. Her other indulgences include French cinema, boxing, photography, colourful manicures and soaking up the rays on a sun-infused beach. The places she loves the most include Rio de Janeiro, Rome, Turkey, Barcelona, Lisbon and Cornwall. Find Gaby on Linkedin or Twitter.
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