Portland, Oregon
Let me start with this: I’ve been married and divorced in Portland—all in the same night.
No, really.
Back in my college days, my then girlfriend and I stumbled into the legendary 24-Hour Church of Elvis. It was weird, wild, and wonderfully non-legally-binding. While the Church is sadly no longer around, it remains one of my all-time favorite “Only in Portland” stories. If we ever find ourselves around a campfire, ask me about it—trust me, it’s worth it.
Welcome to Portland, Oregon.
This city doesn’t just march to the beat of its own drum, it builds the drum from reclaimed wood, plays it in a coffee shop powered by bike pedals and probably directly presses it onto vinyl. From kombucha-sipping hipsters debating veganism while munching on maple bacon doughnuts, to the surreal accuracy of Portlandia, Portland is the definition of wonderfully weird. And I love it here.
If you're staying a while or passing through in your RV, Portland is worth a longer stop. Adding a couple of days gives you time to explore this gem. With RV parks located just 15 to 20 minutes from downtown, it stands out as one of the most RV-friendly urban destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
So, let’s dive in. Here’s how I (and my family) explore one of our favorite cities in the U.S.
A Bookworm’s Paradise: Powell’s City of Books
If there's one stop that’s non-negotiable for us, it’s Powell’s City of Books.
This isn’t just a bookstore, it’s a pilgrimage. Spanning an entire city block and housing over a million books, Powell’s is the largest independent bookstore in the World. With 10 rooms, 3 floors, and a labyrinth of literary treasures, you’ll want to grab a map on your way in. You will find anything from rare first editions to local zines, Powell’s is the place to get gloriously lost for hours.
Want to dive deeper into the story behind Powell’s City of Books? Check out my other podcast, See America: The Largest Independent Bookstore in the World, for the full behind-the-shelves experience.
Pro tip: When you find a book you want, dig a little—you might score a gently used copy for a great price.
Stop and Smell the Roses
Portland’s International Rose Test Garden is another must-visit, especially in spring and summer. With over 10,000 bushes and stunning views of the skyline and Mount Hood, it’s a peaceful, fragrant escape nestled in Washington Park. It’s the oldest public rose garden in the U.S. and hands down one of the prettiest.
Science and Wonder at OMSI
Traveling with kids? Or just a curious human? Hit up the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). Located right on the Willamette River, it’s packed with hands-on exhibits covering space, robotics, ocean science, and more. There’s also a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and even a retired submarine you can tour.
Money-saving tip: If you're a Bank of America cardholder, you can get free admission on the first full weekend of each month.
Vinyl Vibes at Music Millennium
Confession: I’m a vinyl geek. My turntable has traveled across the country with me, and nothing beats the sound of a record spinning.
For fellow music lovers, Music Millennium is Portland’s iconic record store. Open since 1969, it’s the oldest record store in the Pacific Northwest and an essential stop for crate-diggers. The atmosphere is cramped in the best way, with walls packed with music memorabilia and staff who genuinely love what they do.
My son bought his first LP here—Bob Marley’s Survival—and that memory alone makes this place sacred to us.
Portland’s Craft Beer Scene: A Hop-Head’s Dream
After a day of exploring, you’ll probably want a pint (or two). Portland’s beer scene is legendary, and here are a few standouts:
Deschutes Brewery & Public House
Located in the Pearl District, Deschutes is a titan in Oregon brewing. Their Black Butte Porter and Fresh Squeezed IPA are iconic. The rustic vibe and hearty menu make this a classic spot.
10 Barrel Brewing
Also in the Pearl District (conveniently near Powell’s), 10 Barrel offers killer rooftop views, wood-fired pizza, and bold beers like Apocalypse IPA. A great spot to chill and soak in the city.
Breakside Brewery
For the hop-obsessed, Breakside in Slabtown is a dream. Known for innovative brews like the What Rough Beast Hazy IPA, it’s a laid-back, award-winning brewery that captures Portland’s experimental spirit.
Fuel Up: Portland's Food Scene
Foodies, rejoice. Portland’s food scene is absurdly good. Here are a few of my personal favorites:
Voodoo Doughnut
You can’t visit Portland without stopping at Voodoo Doughnut. Open 24/7, it’s weird, it’s delicious, and yes—it’s touristy, but for good reason. Be ready to drop $50 on a dozen doughnuts and have zero regrets.
Cartside
Near the Moda Center in North Portland, Cartside is a vibrant food cart pod with everything from Thai fried chicken to gyros. There’s a full bar on-site, and yes, their margaritas slap.
Dough Zone Dumpling House
Craving soup dumplings and bao buns? Head to the Dough Zone along the Willamette River. With stunning views and perfectly executed dishes, this place hits the spot.
Crust Collective
Recommended by a Portland local, this Detroit-style pizza joint in Slabtown is next-level. Thick, caramelized crusts, bold toppings, and craft cocktails (try the Pepperoncini Martini at least once) make this a memorable meal.
RV-Friendly Stops Near the City
If you're road-tripping in your rig, Portland makes it easy.
Jantzen Beach RV Park
Located on the Columbia River and just 15 minutes from downtown, this spot offers full hookups, river views, and easy access to shopping and attractions.
Columbia River RV Park
Another solid option, this park provides peaceful waterfront vibes with full hookups and proximity to great trails and parks.
Both parks are ideal for urban RVers wanting quick access to the city without sacrificing the comforts of a well-equipped site.
Final Thoughts
Keep It Weird. Keep It Wonderful. Keep Coming Back.
Every time I visit Portland, I find something new that makes me love it even more. Be it the creativity, the unapologetic weirdness, the commitment to all things local, or the way the rain just feels right here, this city has a soul. And that soul is welcoming, expressive and alive.
Portland may poke fun at itself (Portlandia, anyone?), but that’s part of the charm. It doesn’t take itself too seriously. It lets you be exactly who you are and encourages you to embrace the weird.
So if you're passing through, or looking for an metropolitan RV destination that blends nature, culture, food and flavor you should give Portland a serious look.
Come for the donuts, stay for the vinyl and lose yourself in the bookstacks.
If you’re curious about what makes Portland, Oregon so uniquely vibrant; from its food trucks and coffee culture to iconic bookstores and killer craft beer, tap to listen now and discover why we fell in love with this city.
