One of my favorite places in Portland, the lively Pearl District is a great place to shop, eat, or drink. Here reclaimed warehouses have been converted into hip bars, trendy restaurants, artisan coffee shops, independent boutiques, art galleries, and craft breweries. From my many hours spent in this cool area and from vegan eateries and vintage stores to must-see museums and unique theaters, here are my favorite things to do in the Pearl District, Portland, Oregon…



- +1 503--445-3700
- 128 NW Eleventh Ave
- Wednesday-Sunday, 2:00 am - 6:00 pm
Blue Sky Gallery

Whether you’ve got a taste for contemporary art or not, we can all come to appreciate a good masterpiece in a traditional setting. If you’re visiting Portland for the first time, I would definitely recommend exploring some of the best art galleries in the Pearl District as it’s a fascinating way to learn more about the history and culture of the city.
Looking at different pieces of artwork isn’t only a mental exercise that stimulates creativity and positive thoughts. Still, it also helps a person learn a great deal about world history and geography- a plus for all the nerds out there. The best art galleries to visit in Portugal are:
Blue Sky Gallery: The Blue Sky Gallery is probably the most exciting gallery to visit when arriving in the Pearl District. It is a modern space with contemporary photographic art hung neatly across its pearl-white walls, with each picture telling stories worth a thousand words.
The gallery is an excellent space for local and international artists to showcase their photographic work, so if you’ve got a knack for photography, put your name down for your work to be considered at no cost!
Foelick Gallery: For those looking for modern artwork that’s more than just some expressive photography, Forelick Gallery is the place to be.
The gallery is an expansive area with various art forms from individual artists who have strong voices and tell a story through their art.
Not good with interpreting art? No problem. Just feel free to ask the highly knowledgeable staff at Forelick Gallery any questions you have and I promise they’ll be happy to answer as long as they’re within their knowledge capacity.
PDX Contemporary Art: The well-lit vintage building of the PDX Contemporary Art gallery offers an aesthetic backdrop to your sleeky Instagram photos. Visit this place anytime from 10 AM to 5 PM to experience the zest of modern artwork and photography.
Pros
Offers trendy and beautiful spaces
Offers a vibrant display of modern artwork
Opportunities for artists
Storytelling through art
Cons
Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Art interpretation can be subjective
Vintage aesthetic might appeal to a specific taste
Nearby Attractions
Oregon Jewish Museum
City center parking
Must Do Things
Attend Events and Exhibitions
Engage with local and international artists
Appreciate contemporary photographic art
Facilities
Staff members available to assist visitors
Networking opportunities
Barista coffee shop
Cute coffee shops are the one remarkable feature of Pearl District that makes you want to visit again simply for the mind-blowing aromas and the best-tasting coffee in the world.
I’d suggest stopping by the Barista coffee shop on 13th Avenue in the Pearl District and experiencing a world completely different from what you’re used to. This coffeehouse allows you to sit out front and watch all of the passersby with a latte in hand, I love it!
La Perlita is another great coffeehouse if you’re willing to take your taste buds on an all-time high. The espressos and the baristas at La Perlita are exquisite, and we don’t just say that.
The place has a 4.7 rating on Google reviews, which is exceptionally good for a small cafe that sells coffee. Anything you’d be too skeptical to order otherwise, try at La Perlita.
You’d be happy you listened to us while you enjoyed the best food at Pearl District.
Pros
Offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere
Renowned for high-quality coffee
Adventurous Coffee Experience
Cons
May have limited seating
Prices relatively high compared to average coffee shops
Nearby Attractions
Must Do Things
Capture the Moment
Trying different coffee options
Facilities
WiFi availability for customers
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
Portland Center Stage (The Armory Building)
Where are all the cinema geeks? This one’s for you. The Portland Center Stage is a historic theater company located on 11th Avenue in Portland, featuring two gigantic theaters inside the antique building.
What better way to spend an evening than watching classical and contemporary theater art and stories brought to life in exceptional ways inside The Armory building?
The place has been awarded several times for its award-winning plays, such as The Twelfth Night and Sometimes a Great Notion.
Pros
Brings stories to life through skilled performances
Offers a unique and nostalgic experience
Enriching cultural experience
Cons
Live theater experiences can be expensive
Quality of the performance can vary
Nearby Attractions
Steel Bridge
Mark Spencer Hotel
Must Do Things
Explore nearby restaurants or cafes for a pre-show meal
Attend Special Events or Workshops
Facilities
Restrooms and Amenities
Seating and Auditorium
Barrel Brewing
The Pearl District in Portland also enjoys a rich beer culture you do not want to miss out on. The best kind of beer is the one that’s been carefully brewed with a thick aroma and a bitter-sweet taste of fruity ales.
Like any other city in America, you must be 21 or older to enjoy a beer in Portland legally.
You’ll find the best craft beer available at the 10 Barrel Brewing or the Deschutes Brewery & Public House. Deschutes Brewery offers both takeaway and dine-in options in a small pub downtown.
Enjoy gourmet food and the best-tasting beer in Portland at these rich places.
Cons
The lively atmosphere may lead to elevated noise levels
Limited parking spaces can make it challenging
Nearby Attractions
Khao Sun Restaurant
Ace Hotel Portland
Must Do Things
Enjoy a tasting session
Participate in Brewery Events
Facilities
Wifi access
Facilities for disabled person
Heating and cooling systems
Powell’s City of Books
For all our bibliophiles, it is a time to rejoice if you’re taking a trip to Portland. Powell’s City of Books is a chain of bookstores lining the streets of Portland.
It claims to be one of the world’s largest bookstores for old and new books.
You’ll likely find everything among an assortment of as many as a million books- from children’s stories to modern-day literature at the City of Books.
Pros
Customers can sell their used books
Offers an extensive and diverse collection of books
Cons
The multi-level layout can get confusing
Parking in the downtown area can be difficult
Nearby Attractions
Ace Hotel Portland
Must Do Things
Browse and shop for book-themed merchandise
Engage young readers in the children's section
Facilities
In-Store Cafe
Restroom facilities for customers
Kure
Kure and Vtopia are some of the best places to enjoy a healthy meal after exercise or before starting your day with a good city exploration.
Head to these famous restaurants and order anything from fresh salads to a gluten-free meal for a healthy eating experience.
The Kure juice bar is especially famous for its refreshing smoothies, coffees, and meal shake. At the same time, the Vtopia cheese shop enjoys a reputation for its mouth-watering cashew-based cheeses, salads, and sandwiches.
Pros
Healthy and nutritious food
Gluten-free food
Best for people having diet
Cons
Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Non-veg food is not available
Nearby Attractions
OMSI Museum
Must Do Things
Try a variety of their fresh smoothies and juices
Customize your meal by selecting from the menu
Facilities
Access to nutritional information about the menu
Facilities to accommodate individuals with disabilities
Jamison Square
Jamison Square is a tourist attraction in Portland. It was one of the first parks to be established in the Pearl District neighborhood.
Take a morning walk through the park’s vast grounds or visit the attraction for some great outdoor pictures.
Either way, Jamison Square Park is a great picnic spot for fun in the sun and relaxing under the cool breeze of Portland.
Pros
Offers a peaceful retreat in the midst of the city
A community gathering place
Features an interactive fountain where visitors can wade through
Cons
Can get crowded
especially during weekends
The open and public nature of the park limits privacy
Nearby Attractions
Broadway Bridge
Must Do Things
Picnic and relaxation
Exercise and yoga
Facilities
Walkways and paths
Public restrooms for visitors' convenience.
Eco Trust
Eco Trust is an organization working towards preserving a climate-smart future.
Visit the Ecotrust building to learn about the amazing things the organization is doing in contributing towards their cause, and have a drink at the facility and enjoy their Mexican cuisine.
Make sure to get involved in some way possible with the organization. This place especially offers a great learning curve for environmentalists and eco-conscious people.
Pros
Offers educational programs and workshops
Actively engages with communities to raise awareness
Supports local economies by promoting sustainable businesses
Cons
Can get busy
Limited to specific regions or communities
Nearby Attractions
Pain-Free Laser service
Must Do Things
Learn about sustainable practices
Attend programs enhancing environmental awareness
Facilities
Resources and facilities for conducting research
Outdoor areas promoting greenery
Tanner Springs Park
Tanner Springs Park is a small city in Portland, fed by the waters from Tanner Creek. Tanner Springs Park is part of what we now call the Pearl District and is a great spot to revisit nature and enjoy the pond ecosystem.
The park is just two blocks from Jamison Square, so while you’re at it, visit the place for another mesmerizing experience.
Pros
Observe the local wildlife and birds
Admire the water features and the central pond
Participate in any organized community events
Exhibits art installations and sculptures
Cons
Urban areas may lead to increased noise levels
The park's enjoyment may be weather-dependent
Nearby Attractions
Jamison Square park
Must Do Things
Participate in any organized community events
Take a leisurely walk around the park
Facilities
Fresh atmosphere due to greenery
HotLips Pizza
It is no surprise that the benefits of a gluten-free diet are many. Not only is a gluten-free meal light and easy on your digestive tract, but it also promotes healthy, glowy skin.
And who doesn’t want to look their absolute best while on vacation?
While most gluten-free meals are bland to the taste buds, the gluten-free pizzas at Hotlips Pizza in Portland are a famous feast for vegans and non-vegans.
In addition to being gluten-free, the pizzas at HotLips are vegan and whole-wheat for a complete vegetarian experience. The place also serves great-tasting wine, real-fruit sodas, and whole pies that are also vegan.
Pros
Many patrons appreciate the taste and quality of the pizza
Offers a variety of pizza options
Uses locally sourced and fresh ingredients
Cons
More expensive compared to other pizza
Limited Menu
Nearby Attractions
Old town
Must Do Things
Support Sustainable Practices
Enjoy Pizza Variety
Facilities
A space for customers to dine-in
Booking options for hosting parties
House of Vintage
If you’re looking for things to get your loved one back at home, explore the vintage stores at Pearl District.
These vintage stores also have great collectibles and apparel items ranging from a few bucks to a good thousand dollars.
Try a few pieces of vintage clothing to express your tourist spirit in Portland, or go window shopping for an equally fantastic experience.
Pros
Often features and unique one-of-a-kind items
Provides a nostalgic shopping experience
Vintage items are often affordable
Cons
High-demand items may quickly sell out
Time-consuming to look through
Nearby Attractions
Laurelhurst Park
Must Do Things
Look for unique
thoughtful vintage gifts
Capture memorable moments and creative shots
Facilities
Private dressing rooms for customers
Seating or resting areas
My Vinyl Underground
Another great gift idea would be to shop for vinyl records and CDs for a music fanatic. These are easily the most thoughtful gifts anyone would give someone with a thing for music or vinyl records.
Visit My Vinyl Underground in Portland, an indie-pop record shop selling vinyl.
Pros
Provides a unique in-person shopping experience
Knowledgeable staff often available to assist customers
Supports local and independent artists
Cons
Some stores may have a more focused selection
Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Nearby Attractions
New Seasons Market
Must Do Things
Engage with the staff and fellow music enthusiasts
Participate in events featuring specific artists or genres
Facilities
Well-organized displays and racks
Comfortable seating or lounge area for customers
CULT
While we’re on the shopping subject, you may want to check out some other independent shops in Portland that cannot be found elsewhere. Some popular shops in Pearl District are:
- CULT: Cult is a vast souvenir shop housing everything from precious collectibles to unique gifts for your significant other. You’re sure to find something for everyone on your friend list here.
- Hello from Portland: This souvenir shop has incredible clothing designs and apparel items.
- Portland Gear: Portland Gear is a clothing store in Portland that sells explicitly hip merchant and custom-tailored Portland-themed apparel, accessories, and souvenir items for friends and family. The brand is unique to Portland only.
- PorchLight: Porchlight is a unique shop selling antique items, notable furniture and decor pieces, statement jewelry, apothecary items, and much more
Pros
Affordable prices
Good and trendy design
Celebrates and promotes Portland's unique culture
Cons
Size of store is small
Some items are overpriced
Nearby Attractions
The Society Hotel
NW Portland Hostel
Must Do Things
Participate in events
Capture moments
Facilities
Packaging and Wrapping Area
Sections with information about the products
Market research and analysis to help customers
Gerding Theater at the Armory
We all miss high school, don’t we? To revisit that high school musical experience, visit the Gerding Theater at The Amory building and watch a good musical.
Annually, the theater produces eleven to twelve original plays that are all-time hits among theater lovers.
If you’re lucky enough, you may be able to watch their most popular play or musical at the time of your visit.
Pros
Brings stories to life through skilled performances
Offers a unique and nostalgic experience
Enriching cultural experience
Cons
Live theater experiences can be expensive
Quality of the performance can vary based on the specific show
Nearby Attractions
Steel Bridge
Mark Spencer Hotel
Must Do Things
Explore nearby restaurants or cafes for a pre-show meal
Attend Special Events or Workshops
Facilities
Restrooms and Amenities
Seating and Auditorium
Visit the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education
Jewish or not, it’s always a good idea to expand your mind and learn about other people’s beliefs, culture, history, and more.
The Oregon Jewish Museum provides an opportunity to learn about Jewish history and beliefs and explore the famous Holocaust exhibition at the Museum.
These exhibitions provide direct insight into the lives of the Jews during World War 2, and it’s a very eye-opening experience.
If you’re in Portland and you want to learn more about the Jewish culture or the Holocaust, this is a museum that cannot be missed.
Pros
Offers valuable education about the Holocaust
Features exhibitions and collections
Plays a crucial role in preserving the history
Cons
Emotionally distressing
Nearby Attractions
The Hoxton
Portland
Must Do Things
Engage in educational programs
Contribute and volunteer
Facilities
A space equipped with resources
books
Security systems and measures
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Beth Pinches – writer and photographer
Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or Facebook.
Hotel Reviewing Experience – Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey, Visit Sweden, and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos. Listed as a top UK travel journalist.
Portland Reviewing Experience – Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.
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