The Best Non-Tourist Sites in & Around Portland, Oregon

When one generally thinks of Portland, Oregon - the words "tourist draw" and "recreational mecca" usually do not come to mind. However, locals know the secret --Portland is truly one of the crown jewels of the Pacific Northwest. This city has got it all, and best of all, it's still relatively undiscovered by the masses, unlike other Northwest cities such as Seattle. So if you're new to Portland, or just want to experience something new, here are the top ten non-tourist destinations in and around the city to take it all in.

Forest Park

Forest Park is one of the largest forested city parks in the United States, with more than 5,000 acres of jaw-dropping scenery. The park has more than 74 miles of trails and old fire roads used for walking, hiking, jogging and biking. One of the easiest access points is at the top of NW Thurman Street (just keep heading uphill until the road ends). Get there early, especially on weekends. This is a favorite spot for runners, and parking is slim pickings.

Hoyt Arboretum

This 185-acre forested beauty is planted with more than 1,000 species of trees and shrubs from around the world. There are several miles of tranquil hiking trails that wind their way through the park. Maps and trail guides can be picked up at the arboretum's visitor's center, located at 4000 SW Fairview Blvd.

Joseph Wood Hill Park

Another one of my favorite parks in Portland is Joseph Wood Hill Park. It's small by comparison to the previous two parks mentioned - just less than 2.5 acres - but it's big on beauty. Perched atop a hill in a large residential area south of the city, Joseph Hill Wood Park offers a stunning view of Portland and the surrounding valley. The view simply cannot be beat. It's located at the top of NE Rocky Butte Road. Call 503-823-2525 for more information.

Pittock Mansion

For more stunning views, as well as a little history lesson about Portland, don't miss a trip up to Pittock Mansion. It's located at the highest point in the West Hills - at more than 1,000 feet above sea level. This huge home was built by the founder of Portland's Oregonian newspaper in 1914. It's fully-restored and open to the public except during Christmas and the month of January. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for children. The expansive views of the surrounding valley make it a favorite spot for photographers.

The Pearl District

The Pearl District is the name given to the downtown neighborhood of galleries, restaurants, breweries, shops, and residential and business lofts. This is Portland's trendy urban loft scene and one of the city's main upscale restaurant-neighborhoods. It is bounded by the North Park Blocks, Overton Street, I-405, and Burnside Street.

The Crystal Ballroom

This is one of the hottest places to take in a concert in the city of Portland. The Crystal Ballroom opened in 1920 and since then has played host to musicians ranging from early jazz performers to the Grateful Dead. The refurbished ballroom hosts a variety of events and special performances almost every night of the week. The Crystal Ballroom is located 1332 West Burnside Road.

Powell's City of Books

You haven't been to a bookstore until you've been to Powell's City of Books. Located at 2720 Northwest 29th Avenue, this massive bookstore claims to be the largest bookstore in the world. You can easily get lost in the three floors of books, which cover an entire city block. At any given time, the store has more than three-quarters of a million new and used books on its shelves.

Columbia River Gorge

Okay so you'll probably encounter quite a few tourists on your tour of the Columbia River Gorge, but it is well worth it. This side trip from Portland can be as long or as short as you want to make it. To begin your trip, take I-84 east out of Portland. At Troutdale, take the exit marked Historic Columbia River Highway (U.S. 30). This scenic highway was built between 1913 and 1922 and was an engineering marvel in its day. Even today, you'll marvel at the breathtaking scenery as you wind your way through the mountains and check out the expansive views of the Columbia River. This is also the road to Multnomah Falls - Oregon's second most visited tourist attraction. Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon - at more than 620 feet. Expect crowds.

Wine Country

More than 150 wineries are within an hour's drive of Portland. For years now, Oregon's pinot noirs have been winning awards, and it's no wonder when you consider that Oregon is on the same latitude as the wine-growing regions of France. Visit http://willamettewines.com/ for more information about planning your trip.

Brewpubs

Portland is the heart of the Northwest's craft brewing explosion. Brewpubs are now big business in Portland, and you can find a range of different pubs to suit your style - from upscale to funky and everything in between. There are dozens of breweries in the Portland metro area alone, and if you're a beer fan, you owe it to yourself to check them out.