HyperLocal News for Portland, Oregon

Portland Timbers: A Look Inside Soccer City USAThe Portland Timbers have been a local institution for over 30 years. Soccer may still be seen as a second tier sport throughout much of the country, but the Rose City has a special affinity with the world’s game. The Portland Timbers' strong local following and lively games will make almost anyone fall in love with the “beautiful game.”

Onda Arte Latina: A colorful look at contemporary Latin artOn bustling Alberta Street, Onda Arte Latina holds its own among a vast array great art galleries and street art. With a variety of Latin art from paintings, ceramics, and tapestry, the gallery serves also serves as an important cultural experience. With an extensive gift shop, visitors can come away with a special item for loved ones back home.

DeNorval Unthank Park: A Piece of History Set in Historic North PortlandDeNorval Unthank Park may be a mouthful, but this peaceful location can be a great spot to spend an afternoon. The park is centrally located in north Portland’s Boise-Eliot neighborhood between Martin Luther King and Mississippi Street. The vibrant neighborhood feel of nearby Mississippi Street surrounds the park with great restaurants, food, and businesses. The park itself is generally busy with people playing basketball, lounging in the sun, or just getting a breath of fresh air.

Two Plum Park: A Neighborhood’s Pride and JoyThe tiny Two Plum Park is a former empty lot that was transformed from eye sore to the relaxing center of a neighborhood. Portland is well known for its parks and Two Plum Park is a petite addition. Like many of the parks, it is on land that was in need of a natural makeover.

Sabin HydroPark: relax underneath the enormous green towersSabin HydroPark reflects the innovative way the city of Portland turns land that serves a public good into a public park for all to use. The park can be seen from blocks away thanks to the large water towers. It is great place for Portland visitors to see how to dual use works in a major American city.

King Farmers Market: A Taste of Portland Every SundayThe King Farmers Market is a Sunday institution. Northeast Portland’s weekly market features the freshest food, locally grown produce, flowers and more. For those used to shopping at grocery stores, you will understand why farmers markets are not only affordable, but also informative and fun.

Grant Park: Imagine a story under the swaying treesThis expansive park in northeast Portland seems like a setting for novel. With tall trees rustling in the wind and open green spaces, you can envision your imagination running wild while relaxing under the sun. Whether it is walking, running, tennis, or swimming, Grant Park also offers a number of activities for those looking to stay in shape.

Movie Marvel Museum: PDX’s small, secret movie museumMovie Marvel Museum is a small wonder located in the up and coming Alberta Arts District. Open only one day a week, it rewards those who are patient by allowing them to enter a world of wonder on a Saturday afternoon. A perfect balance of kitsch, dust and Hollywood folklore, it has a glimmer that few larger museums do.

Grant Pool: Cool Off Under Tall, Majestic TreesGrant Pool is a fun place to take the kids when trying to cool off from Portland’s summer weather. When the hot easterly winds blow down through the Columbia River Gorge, Portland experiences its hottest days. To beat the heat, take the kids to Grant Pool to enjoy and relax in comfort.

Peninsula Park: Portland’s original Rose GardenWhile the International Rose Test Garden is a must visit, Peninsula Park makes a case for the most beautiful rose garden in Portland. In fact, this park was what helped Portland originally get the nickname: the ‘Rose City.’ The landscaped lanes of roses and its elegant design make it a jewel of north Portland.

Canoe: Where design meets functionalityCanoe is a delightfully designed shop in downtown Portland. When shopping for gifts during the holidays or just for a birthday, you will feel as though you can almost check everyone off your list. In one visit, you will find yourself pleased with their selection of fun and functional gifts.

Movie Madness: Doubling as Historic Hollywood MuseumAt Movie Madness, you not only get a choice of great movies, but can also take a look at vintage artifacts from decades of the silver screen. The store has a fervently local feeling with a large following. Movie Madness shows why when other chain stores are going out of business, it continues to be busy.

Alder & Co.: Aesthetically pleasing gifts at Portland’s newest shopThe newest business on a busy block, Alder & Co. is quickly establishing itself as a wonderful location for gifts and shopping in downtown Portland. Located in the heart of downtown Portland's West End, it is a convenient and lovely place to find something special.

Pastaworks: A Taste of Tuscany in the Rose CityPastaworks is the local destination for slow food. Find the right food, wine, and supplies for a romantic meal or a large family meal. This specialty store is focused on Italian goods and boasts a large wine and cheese selection. You will find what you are looking for and much more. With a few locations spread about Portland, it seems there is always a Pastaworks close by.

Jackpot Records: Strike musical goldJackpot Records proves that a music store is not an antiquated way of purchasing the latest hit single. With its sheer quantity of music, ranging from obscure limited-edition vinyl records to the most popular group of the moment, you will find what you are looking for and more.

Noun: A ‘simply’ amazing shop for inventive giftsNoun is a beautifully understated shop in southeast Portland. Sharing its space with the delicious Saint Cupcake, it is also a sweet stop if you need a gift to amaze. With an innovative blend of antiques, local art and curiosities of all shapes and sizes, you can find that perfect something for that special somebody.

Village Merchants: Portland’s spot for hidden treasuresVillage Merchants is a wonderful excursion is you are looking for furniture, nick-knacks, or just want to hunt around for a bargain. With great prices and a convenient location, Village Merchants has specialized in providing customers with a fun and creative shopping experience.

Hawthorne Vintage: A destination for historic home itemsHawthorne Vintage sets itself apart from most of the city’s other vintages shops. While it specializes in items from the 1940s-1980s, it is decidedly focused on home furnishings, lighting, and furniture. Whether you are looking to outfit your first apartment or just spruce up a room in your house, Hawthorne Vintage is a great place to pursue for a relic of decades ago.

Powell’s Books: A local literary landmarkBooks are a integral part of everyone’s life. Powell’s definitely epitomizes this feeling with the largest selection in town. With multiple local locations, including a great space at Portland International Airport, Powell’s is convenient while still remaining local. Combining their exceptional selection with reasonable prices, a fun adventure is assured at this Portland landmark.

Portland Nursery: A Gardener's ParadiseIn Portland, everything is local. For a city and region which prides itself on local food, produce, and wine, the Portland Nursery is a one-stop shop for everything you may need for your garden. Whether it is a large community/neighborhood garden or a small herb garden for your condo or apartment, their supplies and know-how are top notch.

Mississippi Street: Where Portland’s history and future meetThe Mississippi neighborhood is one of the most electric neighborhoods in Portland. Quite nearly exploding with local businesses, it has gone from small-time neighborhood to local shopping spot de jure in only a few years. A bustling atmosphere filled with shops, food carts, restaurants, bars and live music, Mississippi is a must-see community for all visitors.

Alberta Arts District: Northeast Portland’s creative and vibrant neighborhoodWhen first visiting the Alberta Arts District, you will be struck with the cohesion among the variety of art galleries, restaurants, and local businesses. With so much to see and do along this busy, narrow street, the Alberta Arts District can be a great place to explore on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.

Cultural District: With art and museums wherever you turnNo trip to downtown Portland is complete without walking around the Cultural District. Close to all major downtown hotels, you can see many sites within a mile radius. Everything that Portland has to offer in terms of museums, galleries, and public art is right at your fingertips. Even if you do not have time to make it into any of the museums, a walking tour can be a great for photos and viewing outdoor sculptures.

Irvington: A local neighborhood with regal charmIrvington neighborhood offers visitors a stroll through tree-lined drives and majestic homes. Most were built at the turn-of-the-century, giving a peak into Portland’s transition from a small lumber town to an international city. The stately homes are surrounded by beautiful parks, bountiful shopping and great eateries.

Buckman Neighborhood: A creative taste of youthful PortlandThe Buckman neighborhood is a great jumping-off point for a day of fun exploring Portland. With its countless cafes, restaurants, and coffee shops, you can explore this up-and-coming neighborhood which seems to be right near everything there is do in Portland.

The Alphabet District: A neighborhood with fun from A to ZEven if you have never been to the Rose City, chances are the names Flanders, Lovejoy, and Quimby ring a bell. These names made famous by the long-running Simpsons television show are just one of the ways the Alphabet District is such an endearing part of Portland. Combined with delicious restaurants and a plethora of shopping, the district is a perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon.

Clinton Neighborhood: Portland’s innovative up-and-coming neighborhoodThe Clinton neighborhood has an unassuming look, but is clearly one of the most innovative parts of Portland. Sandwiched between Division and Powell Streets in southeast Portland, it has quietly became home to many of the city’s most up-and-coming shops and restaurants.

Belmont Neighborhood: Revamped and Ready for BusinessThe Belmont Neighborhood in Southeast Portland is a model of what neighborhoods can do to improve their image and keep visitors coming in. Both residents and visitors agree that Belmont has moved far past its more seedy days of 15 years ago. Since that time, popular local businesses have come in and helped to spark a revival.

Hawthorne: An eclectic slice of PortlandOut of all Portland neighborhoods, the Hawthorne District thoroughly exhibits the vibrant culture Portland has become known for in recent years. With shopping, movie theaters, food, and much more it has become a haven for visitors and Portland residents looking for a fun time.

Pearl District: The Renewed Jewel of PortlandPortland’s Pearl District symbolizes the revitalization from a sleepy Pacific Northwest city to an international center for shopping, art, and culture. The neighborhood was once known as a hub for warehouses, industry, and shipping. Many of the original train tracks still run through the area. However, in the past 15 years, the Pearl District has been transformed with upscale eateries, modern condos, and contemporary art galleries.

Pho Jasmine: A taste of Vietnam hidden in North PortlandDespite its modest interior and location far from the center of Portland’s culinary activity, Pho Jasmine stands out as a top notch Vietnamese restaurant. Whether it is their traditional Pho or one of their rice noodle dishes, Pho Jasmine's dishes exude a care and delicate blend of tastes.

Inspire: A Refreshingly Different Food CartIn the busy world of Portland’s food carts, innovation and creativity are keys to sticking out. Inspire does this by being housed in a bright red train car and serving delicious juice and pie. Their laid-back attitude and devotion to local artists and musicians, make it a must-see when exploring the Alberta Arts District.

Gravy: A heapin’ helping of breakfast favoritesGravy is not one of those restaurants for those who prefer moderate portions. Their huge meals make it a perfect brunch spot, earning a local following by those who love down-home cooking with a no-frills appeal.

Grilled Cheese Grill: Sandwiches that make you feel like a childThe Grilled Cheese Grill helps to dispel those bad memories of grade school. One trip to this amazing food cart and eating their delicious sandwiches in their artfully decorated school bus, you will understand how this restaurant has carved out a niche in the crowded street food market.

Foster & Dobbs: Find a taste for wine and cheeseFew stores can pack so much quality into a locally owned business. Offering arguably the best wine and cheese in town, Foster & Dobbs also seeks to expand their customers understanding of fine food and drink. Their array of tastings and classes help you to learn more.

Extracto: Taking the time to get it rightExtracto is northeast Portland’s neighborhood coffee shop. Unassuming and relaxing, their two locations make it charmingly easy to hang out and check your email or chat with friends. The friendly and modern atmosphere makes it a perfect choice when wanting to a cup of coffee before getting out and exploring north Portland.

Lovejoy Bakers: PDX's newest baking sensationLovejoy Bakers has quickly made a name for itself despite being in a city known for its local bakeries. Their café is a must visit not just for their baked goods, but also their delicious sandwich and dinner items.

Addy’s: Adding to the Portland food cart traditionLocated in downtown Portland on the corner of 10th and Alder St., Addy’s adds a touch of refinement to the usual food cart fare. With so many great choices in this food cart cluster from the Whole Bowl and Savor to more diverse cuisines, Addy’s stands out by offering a delicious lunch spot with a innovative sandwiches.

Por Que No: PDX's 'Line Around the Block' restaurantWith large crowds at both locations, Por Que No serves up some of the most pleasing Mexican cuisine in town. Cheap and delicious tacos make Por Que No the perfect sunny day restaurant or a great place to meet friends after work. Por Que No can be a refreshing stop, because of its laid back and easy going atmosphere.

Random Order: As Portland as apple pieRandom Order is home to some of the best coffee and pie Portland has to offer. While a pie shop may make you think of a cop movie from the 1970s, Random Order tastefully updates many classic American desserts with fresh and innovative ingredients.

Portland Actors Conservatory: The leading edge of emerging theatreThe Portland Actors Conservatory is a place for education and study as well as a theatre to experience emerging stars in the city's acting community. With an intense education program, the actors become well versed in their craft. Their performances will both amaze and inspire you while remaining very affordable.