The settlement, which was once the home of the Multnomah and Upper Chinook Indian tribes, contains the largest continually flowing chocolate waterfall in the world, at the beloved Candy Basket shop. Portland is also the location of the largest independent book store in the world, Powell's Books, which was established in 1971.
The Portland Japanese Garden
Founded in the 1960s by a group of local citizens, the Portland Japanese Garden was formed shortly after Portland and Sapporo, Japan, became sister cities. The attraction welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and has numerous streams, ponds and waterfalls, as well as a special tea house surrounding a beautiful tea garden.
The Lan Su Chinese Garden
Another superb natural attraction, the Lan Su Chinese Garden has similar origins to the Japanese Garden in that it was formed after Portland and the Chinese city of Suzhou became sister cities. The park, which was designed by artisans from Suzhou, is an impressive botanical garden that also contains an enchanting tea house run by The Tao of Tea.
The Pittock Mansion
One of Oregon's most opulent houses, and a great spot to observe Portland's skyline and Mount Hood in the distance, the Pittock Mansion was built in 1914 for the affluent publisher Henry Pittock. The building was designed in the attractive French Renaissance style, and is inscribed on the National Register of Historic Places.
OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry)
To learn more about the advances in science and industry over the years, spend some time at the world-class Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, which celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2014. The museum has numerous permanent exhibitions and a state-of-the-art planetarium, and is even the home of the enormous USS Blueback SS-581 submarine, which was once featured in the Oscar-Winning action thriller movie 'The Hunt for Red October' (1990).
Hotels
For excellent value for money and stylish accommodation, consider booking a stay at the friendly Clarion Hotel Portland Airport or the Radisson Hotel Portland Airport. If you're looking for luxury Portland hotels with chic furnishings, you might want to book a room at the Residence Inn Portland Downtown / RiverPlace, the Residence Inn Portland Airport at Cascade Station, or the Residence Inn Portland Downtown/Pearl District.
Dining suggestions
There are cuisines to suit all tastes and budgets in the city, but if you're looking for fabulous seafood, you may want to try the Roe restaurant. For hearty American classics, consider Mother's Bistro & Bar, treat yourself to some delightful Peruvian recipes at the Andina Restaurant, or enjoy other delectable dishes at Tangier Moroccan & Mediterranean Cuisine.
