Sustainable City
Portland is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness. According to the FIA Formula E City Guide, it’s one of the greenest cities in the world. In fact, Portland is home to the world’s first vegan strip club, Casa Diablo, which serves an all-vegan menu while embracing environmental responsibility. This unique establishment showcases the city’s dedication to green living and innovation in unexpected places.
Craft Beer Capital
While you might already know that Portland is famous for its craft beer scene, there’s something you might not be aware of: it boasts the most breweries per capita in the United States. In fact, Portland has over 75 breweries! The city’s love affair with craft beer is deeply rooted, and you can explore its rich brewing history by taking a brewery tour or simply enjoying a pint in one of its many beer gardens.
A Haven for Book Lovers
For all the bookworms out there, Portland offers a unique literary experience. Powell’s City of Books, often referred to as the “City Block of Books,” is the largest independent bookstore in the world. It covers an entire city block and houses over a million new and used books, making it a bibliophile’s paradise. Even if you’re not a book enthusiast, exploring this massive bookstore is an unforgettable experience.
Weird and Proud
Portland embraces its quirky side. The city proudly claims the slogan “Keep Portland Weird,” celebrating its eccentric culture. You can witness this eccentricity through events like the annual Naked Bike Ride, where thousands of participants cycle through the streets wearing nothing but their birthday suits to promote body positivity and environmental awareness. It’s just one example of how Portlanders embrace their individuality and non-conformity.
Bridges of Portland
Portland is often referred to as “Bridgetown” because of its numerous bridges that connect the city over the Willamette River. While you may be familiar with some of the city’s iconic bridges, there’s a hidden gem that might surprise you. The St. Johns Bridge, an architectural marvel designed by David B. Steinman, resembles the gothic-style architecture of the Golden Gate Bridge. Its striking green color and soaring towers make it a lesser-known but equally beautiful landmark worth exploring.
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Food Cart Paradise
Portland has a thriving food cart scene that offers a diverse range of culinary delights from around the world. What you might not know is that these food carts are not just street food vendors but have grown into a culinary culture of their own. In fact, the city has an official “food cart pod” called Cartlandia, featuring a variety of carts serving everything from gourmet sandwiches to international cuisine. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore the city’s gastronomic diversity.
image source: https://images.app.goo.gl/VpusGodJWRWQvzdM6
Outdoor Adventures
Beyond the urban landscape, Portland is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The city is just a short drive from the Columbia River Gorge, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and waterfall chasing. The FIA Formula E City Guide mentions that you can even go windsurfing in the nearby Hood River. Furthermore, Forest Park within the city limits is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, with over 80 kilometers of trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
In conclusion, Portland is a city filled with hidden gems and surprises, from its commitment to sustainability to its eccentric culture, craft beer scene, and unique landmarks. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in the Rose City. So, the next time you find yourself in Portland, don’t just stick to the tourist spots – venture off the beaten path and uncover the fascinating secrets that make this city truly one-of-a-kind.