Itinerary - a Long Weekend in Portland

It takes more than an extended weekend to get a good handle on all the Portland, Ore., area can offer. But it's enough for a good introduction to the region. This four-day itinerary can jump-start plans for an active traveler.

Preparation

Staying west of the Willamette River puts you in good walking distance of many of Portland's highlights like the Pearl District. Car rental rates are reasonable, and a car is a huge help for getting to areas outside the city. The west side is also home to the Inn at the Northrup Station, which is my favorite hotel in the United States. Downtown Portland is very walkable and also has light rail and trolleys. If you're a sharp-eyed fan of The Simpsons, you might notice that several major streets share names with the characters. That's because creator Matt Groening was born here.

Thursday

This is your arrival day. Take the MAX light rail from the airport. If you brought a bike with you, take advantage of the public bike workstands at the airport to put it together. The trip to the Pearl District is around 45 minutes on the Max. You'll enjoy some great people-watching en-route.

If you're hungry after flying, riding and finding your hotel, Portland considers itself a foodie city. You'll find all sorts ethnic eats. If you're indecisive and/or cheap, go to one of the areas where food trucks cluster.

Jeld-Wen Stadium may have a Portland Timbers soccer match on tap. If not today, you'll have to wait until the weekend. Give soccer a chance, even if it's not one of your favorite sports. Portlanders support the team vigorously, and the ground has an awesome vibe. Relive all the highs and lows at the match with the locals at just about any nearby bar.

Friday

It's time to have some real fun. Head east for a good drive up the Columbia Gorge. You find all sorts of small towns to check out, plus a good amount of hiking. Though it's crowded, Multomah Falls is a fun walk. It will get your heart rate going, and it offers spectacular views. Dog lovers will dig it, too - it's crawling with people walking their furry friends.

I'd also suggest the Fruit Loop to anyone with an appetite for fresh fruit. You can also check out the kite surfers at Hood River.

What do with the rest of your day when you return to Portland? Powell's City of Books. There's an in-store coffeehouse and more books than you might ever see in one place.

By nighttime, you might be ready for more microbrew. Head east of the Willamette and pull into the Green Dragon, where you can find a multitude of regional craft beer. Spread the wealth with a walk to the nearby Lucky Labrador Brew Pub. By then, you'll be ready to cap off your night at Beer Monger. Find out about these and other brew pubs at Portlandbeer.org.

Saturday

Crank up the rental car and head northeast - straight to Mt. Saint Helens. But first, stop at for a tasty Cuban breakfast at Pambiche.

This volcano is a must-see. It's still as awe-inspiring as ever. Even if you don't have time for a full climb, spend some time driving around the area to marvel at the destructive power of its 1980 eruption. Get out and take a hike anywhere that looks interesting.

On the way back, head a little further up Interstate 5 to the town of Kelso. There, you'll find the Kelso Theater Pub. It's a great place for a gourmet pizza and a regional craft brew.

Sunday

Well, it's time to head back home. But you might have time to scoop up some snacks at a farmer's market or drop into Voodoo Donuts.

Rest assured you've only scratched the surface. There's plenty to do if you return.