There are components of Portland that are always brought up in conversation: the food, the gorgeous natural surroundings, the coffee, and the list goes on and on. Little do people know that there are places that make this city so great, and aren't brought up as a predominant Portland perk. Here's a list of some of our favorite Portland hidden gems:
1. Multnomah Whiskey Library
With over 1,500 different spirits and an array of tasty small plates, this treasure is one of many reasons to love the City of Roses.
Let's take a look inside the Multnomah Whiskey Library in this video from PeteSwitch:
2. Academy Theater
These days many movie theaters are extremely expensive and overrated. The Academy Theater brings back the joy of going to a movie, by offering a wide range of genres at an unbeatable price.
3. Red Light Clothing Exchange
Portland has tons of clothing exchange stores, but none quite like Red Light. It has an electric atmosphere and a selection of clothing ranging from all sorts of decades.
4. World Foods
Inspired by countries all over the world, World Foods market explores all sorts of traditional foods. They offer fresh produce high-quality meats, and grocery items that you just can't get anywhere else in the city.
5. Swift Lounge
With delicious bar food and creative cocktails, Swift Lounge is a dive bar that is a must-visit for anyone new to Portland. They even feature a rotating seasonal mason jar cocktail! Get your dancing shoes polished up and grab yourself a Topless Robin while you enjoy some floor-shaking base from a live DJ.
6. The Grotto
Tucked away in NE Portland, The Grotto has been serving as one of Portland's largest and most majestic Catholic sanctuaries for almost 100 years. With botanical gardens and shrines topped with mossy cliffs, this is one of the most gorgeous places in the city.
Head to The Grotto in this video from CelS BelA:
7. The Green Microgym
What would be better than energizing a building's electricity by working out? Nothing! That's why The Green Microgym is so awesome; it does its best to emit significantly less emissions than any other gym in the city by using the workout equipment as its generator.
8. Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Opened in 1980, this dimly lit cafe attracts people of all kinds. Each of its tables is named after a different composer and does strange things like disappear into a slit in the wall or shake when a button in the kitchen is pressed. Even if you don't think the Rimsky-Korsakoffee House is truly haunted, it sure is an interesting place to have a meal.
9. Longfellow's Books
Note: Unfortunately Longfellow's Books in downtown Portland has closed down permanently. There is one in Portland, Maine, but that might be a bit of a drive.
Everyone knows that Powell's Bookstore is our beloved staple, but when you're looking for something more specialized or rare, you'll want to check out Longfellow Books. Located on the corner of Division and Orange Street, the quality of books from this gem shouldn't be easily forgotten.
10. Cathedral Park
Taking a stroll in Cathedral Park is beautiful for reasons other than its luscious greenery. If you walk directly under the St. John’s Bridge and look west, you can catch the surreal view of some of Oregon’s dreamlike forestry, which makes this view one of Portland’s true hidden treasures.
11. Glowing Greens
Glowing Greens is an indoor, black light miniature golf course. With rooms themed with pirates and aliens, this place is sure to be something that cannot be missed. You'll also be able to try your hand at a blacklight escape room or some feisty axe throwing.
Here's another hidden gem in Portland - Glowing Greens. If you are looking for fun things to do in Portland, learn more about Glowing Greens in this video from Dill Ward:
Are we missing anything? What are some of your favorite Portland hidden gems? Portland is a wonderful walkable city with numerous places to explore. Check out some of the best places to go for a walk in Portland.
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