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If you have decided to make Portland your hometown, congratulations are in order – you made a great choice. No matter what your lifestyle is or what you want it to be in the future, Portland is the right city for you.

It is the city that manages to make a chic, young fashionista, a family of five with toddlers, and a retired teacher feel like they are right where they belong. Being the biggest city in Oregon, Portland has many areas to choose from, and they can vary dramatically from one to another. After a careful review, here is our choice of the best neighborhoods to live in Portland.

Pearl District – modern architecture and fun places for kids

An area where industry morphed into art

This is truly a unique area since, in its past, it used to be made of industrial facilities and warehouses. Over time these robust buildings evolved into respected art establishments, modern business entities, and residences. Warehouses and old plants turned into modern lofts. So if you are an artistic soul with a taste for open-plan living spaces with an industrial feel to them, Pearl District is the finest area to settle in Portland for you. In this area, you can find some of the greatest and most unusual coffee shops in town, as well as restaurants, again boasting this unusual blend of robust industrial architecture and modern trends in interior design.

Kids love it here

This fashion-forward neighborhood is also quite family-friendly. There are lots of imaginative playgrounds for children. The city park located in this area has a signature tidal pool kids are crazy about on those hot summer days. All in all, Pearl District is a neighborhood that appeals to all our senses. It seems to have a way of being unforgettable for anyone that is introduced to it.

Foodies love Mississippi Avenue

An area in Portland with the most diverse offer of restaurants

Speaking of senses, here’s an area that makes an impact, especially if we are talking about taste. In Portland, this part of town is the best place to choose to live for food lovers. If you’re big on eating out and like to sample different cuisines, you will be happy here. Mississippi Avenue has a lot to offer from gluten-free pizza to all-out southern delights and Mexican food. Here the question “Where are we eating tonight?” has an exciting ring to it.

Eccentric stores in this area are truly unique

Another charming characteristic of this neighborhood is its eccentric stores. One of them, for example, is selling lightbulbs. Only lightbulbs, literally. All sorts of them, though. Yet in another one, you can buy the weirdest gifts, such as human or animal bones. Maybe this area wouldn’t be our first choice to recommend to a family with small children, but all others that prefer the night out in town to staying in and that are bored of the usual shopping experience would enjoy living here.

Goose Hollow is the best neighborhood to live in Portland for soccer fans

Soccer fans’ district of choice to live in Portland

First of all, if this is where you choose to live, geese will not be your first neighbors. It is likely your neighbors will be some soccer fans. Prep yourself to take up a revived interest in this sport since Portland is a town in love with soccer. The stadium Providence Park is located in Goose Hollow, with two very popular soccer teams calling it their home. Naturally, this area is packed with all things sports.

Vegans will love it here

On the other hand, there is plenty for those not into sports as well. The harmonious marriage between modern apartments and gorgeous historic buildings gives this district its distinct appeal. An impressive array of food choices ranging from high-quality breakfasts to a delightful donut bar, excellent brunches, pizzas, and Thai food, wouldn’t disappoint even the toughest of foodies. Vegans are especially appreciated here, given that Goose Hollow can provide a very satisfactory selection of vegan dishes. So basically, sports fans, this is the right part of Portland for you. Non-sports fans, if you are moving here, you will not be disappointed either, and definitely, you will not be hungry.

No car, no problem in Nob Hill

The best neighborhood to live in Portland if you do not own a car

A place once called the Alphabet District and Northwest Portland, Nob Hill has many things to take pride in. Even though finding parking is not very easy here, walking around this area is pure joy. Many trendy shops have found their place here as well as some amazing eateries. Taking a stroll, you will be able to enjoy the sight of very beautiful Victorian mansions, which are a trademark of this district.

When it comes to public transportation, among other lines, there is Portland Streetcar. It is very effective in getting people to and from work. So, a person not owning a car that loves urban walks will surely find that this is the best area to relocate to in Portland. Also, an interesting perk of this area is an amazing selection of happy hour options when it comes to drinks.

Relax and let the professionals take care of your stuff; start afresh in style

So if you are a person that doesn’t own a car, likes imaginative shops and restaurants, and appreciates a good transportation system, we recommend the following: hire a good residential moving company and rid yourself of the relocation stress, as their expert team can handle everything. Next, select a bar that seems best suited to your mood at the moment. Sit back, relax, and toast to all the wonderful things that are coming – your new life starts here.

Wonderful mansions and stunning nature in Arlington Heights

A place out of a story-book

And here is a neighborhood fit for princesses and fairy tale endings – at least we see it that way. Imagine a beautiful house on a hill in Portland, surrounded by wonderful greenery. You can reach it going up a steep and narrow, curvy road, but the effort is worth it. Well, that house must be in Arlington Heights. As opposed to our previously described amazing districts to live in Portland, this one is neither bustling with bars and businesses nor does it have that feel of a large city.

Nature blossoms in Arlington Heights

There are many sanctuaries of nature in this area. One of them is Washington Park, which offers many activities like playgrounds, tennis courts, hiking trails, and the like.

There is also a Forest Park (which is dog friendly), one of the most beautiful parks in the country, and several theme gardens. Although peaceful, you can find several restaurants here which are, nonetheless, of very high quality. Arlington is an upscale neighborhood with expensive houses, stunning views, and amazing nature to admire. A fairy-tale district for many.

Conclusion

Deciding on the best neighborhoods to live in Portland is subject to many factors. But one thing is clear – there is a district in Portland for every type of person. Nevertheless, if you end up in any of the abovementioned, you will hardly be disappointed.

Two girls exploring interesting getaway ideas in Oregon

Going away for a weekend can often be even more exciting than a long trip to a faraway destination. Weekend getaways are popular among couples who want some excitement after a long work week, families ready for some weekend fun, and groups of friends getting together for an unforgettable time.

If you’re visiting Portland, you should know that this is a city that’s home to some of the best breweries in the entire country. With a population of only 652,000, Portland still takes the prize from some of the biggest cities in terms of microbreweries and local watering holes.

Among the many fun things to do during your stay in Portland, a guide to the best Portland breweries is necessary. There are so many breweries to visit, it might just require you to extend your trip (or at least rely on your Lyft/Uber app to get you around).

In no particular order, here are some of the best breweries to visit in Portland.

Ex Novo

Ex Novo makes the list after opening in 2014 because of what it stands for. Not only do their beers rotate often and flow liberally, but they also give back to local charities. In fact, 100% of the profits made from their tasty libations get poured into (pun intended) local charities.

Their motto is ‘Drink Beer. Do Good’. What can get better than that? Sounds like a worthwhile activity to complete whilst in Portland, if you ask us.

Deschutes

Deschutes beer has been around for over thirty years, making it one of the oldest and most popular breweries in Portland. With the recent emergence of microbreweries across the USA, you’d think that might make it hard for an older brewery to keep up–but it’s been the exact opposite.

Deschutes likes to experiment, which keeps them hip and their flavors new. Their Portland location has twenty taps and regular tastings of new creations that are (or could be) coming out soon. Of the breweries in Portland, Deschutes is probably the most well known and also one of the best places to visit.

We really like their unique take on pub grub, as they focus primarily on food made from scratch and local produce.

Occidental Brewing Company

In terms of the best breweries in Portland, Occidental Brewing offers another specific type of drinking experience that you wouldn’t expect to find in the Pacific Northwest. Instead of your typical IPA’s, you’ll feel liked you’ve stepped into a Gaststube (pub) in Germany, home of their many German-style ales and lagers, and even an array of bratwursts. From German style Kolsch to Hefeweizen, Dunkel, Pilsner and more.

Occidental has a fantastic patio that makes drinking and eating during the summertime even more fun with friends.

Ground Breaker (Gluten Free)

For the gluten intolerant crowd, and there are more and more of us now, you might think breweries are out of reach or that your brewery map is small or nonexistent.

Well, think again, because Ground Breaker offers an array of drinks that are 100% gluten-free. When you come to Portland, you’ll be welcomed to a place that has won many awards for making beer that tastes just like (or better than) traditional beers. No need to just drink ciders anymore! #ohhappyday

In fact, the owner has won many awards for creating such tasty beer, that they started their commercial brewery and now serve gluten-free pub food as well. It’s a gluten free party! #glutenisbad 🙂

Portland Breweries: Wrap-Up

Portland breweries are a dream come true for most beer drinkers. IPA’s flow like the Columbia River in this riverfront town. When you get here, there are plenty of places you can sit down and have a drink. Whether you’re gluten-free, looking to visit a German beer hall, or want to help local charities, you can achieve nearly any drinking goal in Portland.

Join us for more updates on things to do around Portland. Enjoy your trip!

There’s nothing quite like sitting down with a big, steaming cup of fresh, hot coffee.

Of all the occasionally weird and always wondrous things people know Portland for, the city’s coffee shops are the really a gem for this beautiful city.

Portland is famous for its coffee, and Portland coffee shops are a set well above cafes in nearly every other city in the United States.

That said, there are those famous few that exceed the precedent that the city sets.

If you’re looking for a great place to grab a cup of joe in PDX, but aren’t sure where to start, we can help.

Here are ten must-visit coffee shops in Portland where you’re sure to find a perfect cup of coffee.

1. Coava Coffee Roasters

If you boiled all the eccentricities that make Portland, Portland down into a single cup of coffee–you’d find that particular cup at Coava.

At Coava coffee is not merely a caffeine boost to get you through the day, it’s an art form.

Coava baristas obsess over everything from soil composition to their intricate, and well worth the wait, slow drip system. Each cup is expertly crafted to extract all the rich, aromatic flavors from their precision roasted coffee beans.

If you prefer a cup of straight, black coffee, then Coava is the spot for you–sugar and cream are not needed here.

2. Good Coffee

This coffee house has a name that suits it perfectly.

You’ll find a plethora of excellent coffee and espresso drinks at Good Coffee. On top of that, you’ll also find a fantastic place to enjoy your expertly crafted beverage of choice.

If you’re looking for a coffee shop with a real home away from home vibe, then Good Coffee is just the place for you.

3. Sterling Coffee Roasters

A more apt term for the baristas over at Sterling would be brewmasters.

You won’t be able to find anyone obsessing over soil samples or bean varieties over at Sterling. But, you will be able to find an excellent cup of joe and a fantastic place to sit and enjoy it.

Sterling feels more like hanging out in a good friend’s exceedingly large breakfast nook than a coffee shop–and that’s what makes it so great.

When you visit, try one of Sterling’s uniquely famous espresso flights before settling in with a large craft of their classic bean juice.

4. Behind the Museum Cafe

Sometimes you want the coffee shop experience, with something a little lighter on the caffeine.

Behind the Museum Cafe is one of the most zen coffee houses you’ll ever find. With its open and minimalistic design, it’s hard to get stressed in this coffee shop.

If that double espresso seems a little too extreme for Behind the Museum, they have a wide variety of teas to help warm you up and calm you down.

And if you were wondering, yes–it really is behind a museum.

5. Barista

If you’re a coffee-lover, but not the artsy type, it can be hard to find the perfect coffee shop to suit your style in Portland.

That’s where Barista comes in.

There are a few Barista locations scattered across the city. But each location features the same clean, elegant coziness everyone can appreciate and enjoy.

Barista bosts a series of different roasts from local coffee roasters from across the city. So, you’re guaranteed to find something local you’re going to love.

6. Heart Coffee

It’s the perfect coffee shop for the Scandinavian mad scientist inside all us. #dontcalluscrazy

While the outward aesthetic and style of Heart Coffee caused a bit of a rift amongst local coffee-fans, most people can agree that a good cup is a good cup.

Heart has become famous for its unique Aeropress system, that generates light but immensely flavorful cups of coffee.

7. Either/Or

If you’re into the broader world of coffee possibilities, then you may be able to find your wildest dreams come to life at Either/Or.

More than a coffee shop, Either/Or feels like an art studio — where coffee is the medium of choice.

Coffee mocktails, city-famous pastries, and surprising flavor combinations run rampant in this cafe.

Either/Or also features a Portland-inspired interior design that makes it a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and your next deep read.

8. Cathedral Coffee

If you’re in the mood for a heavenly cup of coffee, Cathedral Coffee is the place for you.

Don’t let the name fool you. Cathedral Coffee is far from stuffy. This strange coffee spot is full of art, life, and warm, natural wood–making it an excellent place to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Cathedral Coffee’s coffee is undeniably worthy of praise. (Was that good for a dad joke?) But, if you’re looking for a real religious experience you may want to try one of the fresh, made-in-house wonders in their bakery display case. (We’re on fire with the dad jokes today!)

9.Spella Caff?

Spella Caff? has existed in some form for well over a decade–so you can be sure that its coffee is something of a landmark nowadays.

If an authentic Italian roast is your cup of tea–or coffee–then Spella is the place for you.

Spella Caff? looks and feels like a low-key down to earth style cafe, but don’t let its looks fool you. This coffee shop is cranking out one of the best Italian roasts available on this side of the Pacific.

10. Stumptown Coffee Roasters

While Portland’s namesake coffee house has a few different locations, every spot feels like the true original.

At Stumptown, consistency is king. It doesn’t matter which location you visit you can always expect to walk away with a top-notch cup of coffee.

Stumptown puts a lot of emphasis on their gold-star barista training program, which is how they maintain quality across the board.

It seems like every other coffee shop in America is doing a version of cold brew these days. But, Stumptown practically perfected the art with their nitro-cold brew system.

A nice iced-down Stumptown cold brew is the perfect way to refresh and jumpstart yourself when you hit that midday slump.

11. (BONUS) Nossa Familia Coffee

We just had to add one more because it was so good. From the second you step into Nossa Familia until you leave, you’re surrounded by the thought that these folks really know their coffee. A simple menu, with a few fun options like Portuguese for “Fire Mocha” or Sweet Mocha with Cardamon and Cayenne. The kids had steamers and hot chocolate, and we enjoyed the simplicities of one of the best latte’s we’ve ever had.

With mostly standing room only and a line of people waiting to buy their next latte, we headed on our way with coffee’s in hand. Don’t miss this jewel of Portland.

The Best Portland Coffee Shops

It’s no secret to locals and tourists alike that Portland is one of the best cities for coffee lovers in the country. So, no matter where you wind up wasting an afternoon, you’re sure to find an excellent cup of coffee.

Now that you’re familiar with a few Portland coffee shops, why not explore the rest of what this beautiful and eclectic city has to offer. See more at Clever Neighbor Portland.

If you’re looking for something fun and unique to do in Portland, we can help! Visit us today to uncover everything the city has to offer.

The holidays are here and soon your children will be out of school for a few weeks. Instead of filling their break with screen time, plan a few family-friendly activities.

But entertaining your family can get expensive fast. The good news? Portland offers plenty of free holiday-themed activities for the whole family.

Make the most of the festive season with these fun and free things to do in Portland with your family.

1. Pioneer Courthouse Square Tree

Even though the Pioneer Courthouse Square Christmas tree has already been lit, take the whole family to see this festive tree.

This 75-foot tree will light up everyone’s night, including your family’s Grinch. Add the arrival of the Christmas tree to your calendar for next year. Thousands gather each year on the Friday after Thanksgiving for the tree’s grand entrance.

2. The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition

This year marks the fifth annual Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition. This event is Dec. 7 at the Pioneer Courthouse Square.

Caroling groups of all ages come together to perform for a cash prize. As an attendee, you’ll have the opportunity to vote for the People’s Choice Award. Bring the family out for a day of classic Christmas carols.

3. The Lights On Peacock Lane

The houses on Peacock Lane are famous for going all out for the Christmas holiday. This neighborhood has decorated for the public since the 1920s. Each year, their displays are viewable starting Dec. 15 through Dec. 31.

Drive down the streets to enjoy the lights or if the weather is nice, take a walking tour of the neighborhood. These houses are so extravagant, even Clark Griswold would be jealous.

4. Holidays at the Mall

Portland Mall Management and Pioneer Courthouse Square bring you Holidays at the Mall. Families can enjoy different free events throughout the month of December.

Enjoy live musical events and holiday-themed giveaways. Visit online to see a full calendar of events.

5. Christmas Ship Parade

The Portland Christmas Ship Parade put a holiday-spin on the typical parade experience.

Enjoy over 50 boats decorated in their best holiday lights as they take over the Columbia and Willamette rivers. This parade occurs over a period of 15-nights, giving every family an opportunity to enjoy the lights.

6. Go Christmas Light Hunting

Some of the best holiday entertainment is getting the family together to go hunting for the best Christmas light decorations.

Have everyone put on their pajamas and pile into a car. Drive around neighborhoods on the lookout for the best light displays. Don’t forget to turn on Christmas music and bring hot chocolate for the full holiday experience.

Beyond the Free Things to do in Portland

Now that you know all about the free things to do in Portland during the holidays, consider spending a few bucks for other activities.

The Christmas light lovers can enjoy Zoolights Festival, Winter Wonderland, or The Festival of Lights at the Grotto. Families can also check out the Oregon Ballet Theatre or the Cinnamon Bear Cruise for more holiday-themed fun.

Looking for fun activities that aren’t holiday themed? Check out this article on fun things to do in Portland.

Want to stay up to date with all the fun things happening in the Portland area? Sign up to become a neighborhood member today.

If you’ve ever watched an episode of Portlandia, you probably think that Portland is a pretty weird place. Well, you’re right.

The unofficial slogan of Portland is “Keep Portland Weird.” There’s no shortage of weirdness and there’s no shortage of coffee shops in Portland. Which makes sense, too, because it’s also known to be a home of hipsters.

Where hipsters gather, good coffee is bound to be nearby. Of all the places to go and things to do in Portland, make sure Portland Roasting Coffee is on your list.

Why You Need to go to Portland Roasting Coffee, ASAP

You’ll be hard pressed to find a better coffee or a better deals (for what you get) anywhere in the county.

One great thing about Portland is it has no sales tax.

That’s right. The price you see is the price you get. For anyone who lives in a heavily taxed state, that alone is enough of a reason to take a trip.

Whether you’re wanting a cup of coffee to sit and enjoy now or coffee to take home for later Portland Roasting Coffee has you covered.

A wide variety of blends and roasts are available to satisfy even the most finicky of connoisseurs and are offered in bags and pods for at home coffee machines.

They’ve Got History

Portland Roasting Coffee has been brewing up a cup of joe since 1996. Their mission since the beginning is to have strong relationships with their customers and their suppliers.

They’ve used the years to fine-tune and develop the perfect cup of coffee from places like Huehuetenango, Guatemala. They bring it across the world for you to enjoy as you take in the cozy atmosphere of their cafes.

They Only Buy the Best

At Portland Roasting Coffee, they work hard to purchase the best beans. Every coffee shop seems to say that. But they actually know the stories behind the people they’re buying from.

They want their business to be rooted in relationships, and they’ve been growing those relationships with the people who are growing their beans. The value is placed on the local community, farmers, and the customer.

Their first direct trade shipment began with Finca El Paternal in Guatemala. Over the years they’ve brought business to companies that were in need, and have established a customer base that values this need.

By purchasing coffee from Portland Roasting Coffee, you’re helping support projects all around the world. They partner with Portland Global Initiatives to bring awareness about the global water crisis. They also work to give money to water wells in African communities.

They encourage local community participation to help provide clean water and basic sanitation to these countries and other areas that have a pressing need.

They’ve placed water wells in East Africa, planted trees for shade in El Salvador, and given supplies to an Orphanage in Sumatra all thanks to the business that people give them.

The Reviews Have it

People who try it love it. And you know when people in Portland love coffee, it’s gotta be good.

Customers say you can’t beat the freshness of the coffee you find at Portland Roasting Coffee. And for people in Portland to be saying that is a pretty big point of praise.

Not only do they have a mean cup of coffee, you’ll also be able to enjoy delicious food and pastries to go along with it. Basically, you can spend your entire day there and not have to leave because they have everything you’d need.

The coffee has been described as smooth, crisp, and fresh. A place where real coffee purists will be satisfied, which, again, is saying a lot.

Reviewers also mention that this is not somewhere where you’ll find your typical Starbucks mixed drinks. If you like coffee and pour overs with rotating specialty drinks to choose from, you’ve found your heaven.

It’s a great place to get work done and take an Instagram picture of the beautiful latte art.

Did we mention they also have beer and wine? You can manage your uppers and your downers respectively.

You Can Feel Good About Your Purchase

At Portland Roasting Coffee Company, their mission is to create a great cup of coffee. But it’s also to create a positive human connection, all through building their business in a socially responsible way.

They’re highly dedicated to decreasing their impact on the environment. Since 2007, they’ve been able to maintain carbon neutrality. That means that they offset their carbon emissions and have a new zero carbon footprint.

They compost their organic waste, which amounts to a thousand pounds each month. They give the chaff waste from roasting their beans to farmers that can use it, and donate burlap bags.

They also plan to purchase a heat recovery generator. This generator captures the heat of industrial processes – which includes roasting coffee.

The heating is applied to a closed system by the generator. The heat waste is then converted into electricity. That electricity is enough to power the entire operation of Portland Roasting Coffee.

You can even take a look at their sustainability report so you know exactly what’s going on with their initiatives.

Take a Trip

No bucket list is complete unless you take a trip down to Portland Roasting Coffee. Now you just need to book your plane or train ticket to Portland. Or hop in your car and take a road trip, depending on where you live.

If you want to take a trip to a city with endless amounts of places to see and events to attend, then this is the place for you. You’ll give the city extra bonus points if you’re vegan, because they’ve got a whole slew of yummy options made just for you.

Follow Clever Neighbor Portland on Instagram to learn everything you need to know about Portland before your trip. You won’t just be a tourist, you’ll be an informed tourist. And you won’t miss a beat of what this weird city has to offer.

There should be nothing stopping you from making your way over to Portland to see some new sights and sip some top notch coffee.

Fall is here, and that means one thing: fall dresses!

If you’re native of Portland or the Northwest, then you’re familiar with the cool weather.

There are so many enjoyable activities to soak up the ambiance of fall. If you’re looking for something to do, try cozying up to a cup of Stumptown Coffee and watch the leaves fall. Maybe pack some snacks and enjoy the crisp air as you explore Portland’s Forest Park.

Whatever your fall activity of choice, make sure you’re dressed for the occasion.

If you’re looking for cute fall dresses, then Portland is one of the best places to shop. Check out our list of shopping locations in Portland to find something unique.

Vintage Fall Dresses at The Red Light Clothing Exchange

The Red Light Clothing Exchange has been around since 1999. They’ve created an entire clothing emporium from their buy-sell-trade business.

Now they carry an array of women’s and men’s clothing, from modern brands to vintage pieces. Their inventory is vast, and it changes almost daily due to the number of shoppers and sellers.

If you’re looking for a unique fall dress from a different era, this is the first place you should look.

They’re open from 11 am – 8 pm every day except Sunday. On Sundays, they open at 12 pm instead.

Female Empowerment at Wild Fang

Wild Fang is a female-founded brand based in Portland. They specialize in men’s wear for women, with feminine details and empowering messages.

Their newest collection is Wild Feminist. It features floral designs with messages of encouragement. Their shirts would look great under a custom leather coat, another Portland find.

Wild Fang is more about power suits than dresses, but there are still great long layering pieces. You can wear their long, well-tailored jackets while you’re exploring Portland.

Explore Small Labels at Frances May

Frances May is a small boutique that’s named after the owner’s grandmother. They offer a mix of well-known brands along with smaller labels.

One of the most popular designers they offer is Rachel Comey. She offers women smart, sleek designs that are still feminine.

Their fall dresses are pricier than something you’d find at a thrift store. But the cuts are trendy, and everything is a quality piece of clothing. If you have some money to blow on a beautiful fall dress, Frances May is your boutique.

Pace Yourself at Lizard Lounge

If you’re all about taking it slow and enjoying the coffee, then you should visit Lizard Lounge.

The Lizard Lounge is a women’s and men’s boutique in the Pearl District of Portland. It used to be a 4,100 sqft factory. Now they specialize in relaxed weekend wear, with denim and flannels galore. They carry Horny Toad and Levi’s vintage jeans.

Lizard Lounge believes that shopping should a relaxing experience. So other than great clothing, they also host live music and serve drinks. Beats shopping at Target, right?

Find a Little of Everything at Vintage Pink

Vintage fall dresses are something that Portland does well. That’s something that continues at the Vintage Pink store.

Open from 11 pm – 7 pm, Vintage Pink has something for everyone. They specialize in Danish furniture and antique pieces. But they also have a selection of vintage clothing and accessories.

Even if you don’t walk away with the perfect fall dress, you might end up having a new chair for your living room.

See Goodwill in a New Way

If you’re a thrifter, then you’re not new to Goodwill. It’s a hit or miss kind of place. But on the best days, you find something that changes your life.

In Portland, Goodwill takes vintage thrifting to a new level. The city is home to one of Goodwill’s boutique stores. That means that they remove all the terrible parts of Goodwill shopping, and leave all the good stuff.

Affordable prices, great pieces, and you feel good about reducing fashion waste. What’s not to love?

Stock Up on Knits at Margaret O’Leary

Margaret O’Leary is a San Francisco based company. They have a boutique in Northwest Portland.

Their claim to fame is their line of knits and sweaters. Whether you’re looking for a fall sweater dress or a cashmere scarf, this is the place to visit.

Check out their chunky sweaters to wear over black turtleneck dresses. Or grab a scarf to make the transition from day to night dress. Their styles are affordable and comfortable, two important things for a fall wardrobe.

Expand Your Collection at Palace

If you’re a casual shopper, Palace is the perfect mix of clothing, accessories, and oddities.

Palace offers space to independent designers. They offer anything from clothes, lingerie, jewelry, and home goods. If you’ve got some time to wander around and enjoy custom-made goods, then you have to stop here.

They’re open all week from 11 am to 7 pm. If you hit the store on Monday’s, the shop will give you a 15% discount off regular priced items. That’s a pretty sweet deal from such a cool place.

Enjoy Free Yoga at Lululemon

Lululemon has been making a big name for themselves over the past few years. They offer a line of high-end activity clothing that is designed to sweat in. This includes dresses you can throw over your workout gear or during long bike rides.

READ: Cycling The Eastside

While most other shops on this list are local spots, Lululemon is well known across the country. So why did we include it? Because they offer free yoga sessions during the week!

This is one great example of a chain company reaching out to their local community. That’s the kind of company mentality we can get behind.

Want More Ideas about What to Do In Portland?

If you’re exploring Portland and you’ve packed your fall dresses, then you’re looking for cool stuff to do.

Look no further! We have a collection of articles to help you find the best activities in Portland, Oregon. Click here to read about recommendations.

Are you looking to turn your Portland home into a cozy fall oasis?

It’s officially the start of the season and living in Portland means after September 21st, things really start to indeed feel like autumn. The leaves begin to change and the temperature drops which means it’s time for sweater weather and some fall decor.

Wondering how to turn your home into a pumpkin spice filled sanctuary for the next few months without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered!

Read on for 10 fall decor ideas you can try today.

1. Create a Safe Space

Not only is fall a season, but it’s also a feeling. For many, the season remains a nostalgic one even into adult-hood since it was the time of year you went back to school and started fresh.

You likely remember back to school shopping for all your new supplies and a few cute new wardrobe staples. You can implement the same feeling by making some subtle changes to your home.

Pick an area of your house, whether it be your bedroom, family room or home office and make it a cozy, relaxing and inviting space. Add more blankets, throw pillows or candles to create a seasonal feel.

Since we inevitably spend more time indoors once the season changes, it will be nice to create a personal sanctuary you’ll be excited to hang out in.

2. Make a Tablescape

You can easily create a tablescape you leave standing for the next few months. This way, you’ll have something seasonal to look at while eating dinner on a casual night in as well as something to show off to your guests if you invite people over.

There are a few ways to do this. One is to find a decorative bowl you love and fill it will gourds or pinecones or both. You can make an arrangement in a bowl that way it can be easily moved if you need more space on the table.

You can also fill a vase with rustic branches. The natural colors of the wood will immediately create a cozy and cool-weather atmosphere. These are great options because both of them require no maintenance and can be left for a while on your table without having to be switched out or thrown away.

3. Decorate Your Porch

What better way to welcome your guests or return home than with a decorative porch? You can add some rustic seating like a rocking chair or a bench and cover it with a blanket to spend time outside enjoying the fresh cool air.

You can also paint pumpkins or put larger gourds around the front door. An accessory like that isn’t only reserved for Halloween. If you have an indoor fireplace, keep a basket with chopped wood outside as a decorative element.

4. Bring in That Fall Aroma

One of the least expensive ways to get the feel of fall in your home is to make it smell like fall. We all have our favorite fall scents from cedarwood to pumpkin to cinnamon. Adding a hint of them will spice things up.

Purchase seasonal candles or you can even buy cinnamon sticks and leave them out in a small mason jar as a decorative item as well. If you don’t love candles, consider baking.

Baking your favorite fall treat will fill the air with the scents of autumn and make you feel as though you’ve transitioned your whole home.

5. Get Floral

Fall flowers can add some seasonal flair to your home with ease. Many farmer’s markets and even supermarkets will begin carrying flowers in burnt orange, yellow and red. So you don’t even have to go to the florist to find what you’re looking for.

Create a colorful centerpiece for your dining room table or buy two or three bouquets and mix and match. Make several smaller bouquets, and distribute them throughout the house so you have a little bit of fall in every room.

6. Add Plaid

This pattern is usually associated with the season. We think of plaid coats and even school uniforms. You can add plaid to your home with a simple throw blanket. If you want to take it further, consider plaid napkins, a tablecloth or runner.

You can also swap out your usual throw pillows with one or two plaid patterned ones to change up the look of your living room or bedroom.

7. Pumpkin, Pumpkin, Pumpkin!

Who doesn’t think of pumpkins when they think of fall? From the orange gourds themselves to a bread loaf or a latte made to reflect it’s flavor, pumpkins are truly a staple of the season.

You can add small pumpkins to your table centerpiece or even scatter them throughout your home for decoration. You don’t always have to carve them! Consider purchasing some flavored syrup or cream to make your favorite pumpkin spice coffee drink every morning and consider purchasing a pumpkin candle.

This scent and flavor are one of the best ways to get into the spirit.

8. Decorate the Door

If you don’t have a large porch to decorate, use your front door. This is a great place to put a seasonal wreath. Consider one made of twine or birch wood so that it lasts all season as opposed to something that will go bad like flowers or leaves.

You can also purchase a fake wreath that has colorful leaves on it and no one will know the difference. Just make sure to pack it away in a bag, or dust it off when you pull it off next season!

9. Recreate Your Color Pallete

Fall comes with its own color palette. If you aren’t into adding bold patterns or strong scents to your home, this could be a subtle and easy way to make some changes.

Think about replacing items like throw pillows, blankets and your bedspread with fall colored decor. You want to stick to rich neutrals like browns, dark greens, beige and white. Then you can add pops of color like burnt orange and a deep red.

10. Bring Nature Indoors

Like we mentioned earlier, you’ll be spending less time outdoors as the temperature cools so bringing the outdoors inside may be a good bet.

You can collect fall leaves and place them in a bowl or bring in firewood and store it inside. You can also bring in branches or pinecones and make your own centerpieces or displays in whichever area of the home you prefer.

Add Your Fall Decor Today!

The season will be over before we know it so make the most of this time by adding in your fall decor now. You can enjoy these little tweaks to your home for the next three months and feel excited to go home to your cozy autumn-filled abode.

Be sure to check out the rest of our blog for more tips!

You don’t need a massive budget to enjoy Portland. This awesome city has fun things to do at every price point. Some are even free!

“Are you saying I can visit Portland and not spend ANY money on attractions?”

Yes, that’s what we’re saying. Portland prides itself on being an eclectic, captivating, and accepting city. You don’t need to break the bank to see the best of what we have to offer.

If you’re bursting with excitement to plan your Portland trip, keep reading. Here are ten of the awesome free things to do in Portland that you should check out.

1. First Thursdays of Portland

Every first Thursday of the month, Portland’s best art galleries open their doors to the public. For no admission fee, you can walk from gallery to gallery exploring this beautiful city’s art scene.

It takes place in the evening between five and eight. But, before it starts there are plenty of street vendors and performers to entertain you. Enjoy the live music as locals and visitors alike enjoy this free event.

There are participating galleries in the Downtown and Nob Hill neighborhoods — as well as in Old Town, Pearl District, Slabtown, and the Northwest District. Make sure you wear your walking shoes!

2. Marvel at Forest Park

Portland has the best of both worlds: a bustling urban vibe as well as plenty of natural space. Forest Hill is a 5200-acre forest located inside this urban jungle.

If you’re looking for free things to do, hiking one of the 80 miles of trails here is a must. You could also walk, bike, or experience the forest on horseback.

For a spooky experience, check out the Witch’s Castle. Built in the 1800’s, this structure sits at the scene of a historical murder. Legend says it’s haunted; find out for yourself.

3. Bike the Springwater Corridor

To experience what it’s like to be a native Portlander, you need to go biking on the Springwater Corridor. At 21 miles long, you’ll have plenty of time to explore Portland’s different terrains.

The trail will take you through farmland, buttes, wetlands, and some residential areas. Most of the trail is far from the road so you don’t have to worry about cars.

In remote areas of the trail, mountain lions have been sighted along with deer and coyotes.

4. Take a Photo with Paul Bunyan

Who is Paul Bunyan? If you are of a younger generation, you may not have heard of him. Paul Bunyan is a hero of American lumberjack folklore.

He’s said to have had super-human strength and impeccable lumberjack skills. Bunyan is so admired in Portland that his 31-foot statue was built here in 1959.

If you’re looking for quintessential Portland photo-ops, this is number one. And, it’s free!

5. Check out Multnomah Falls

If you have access to a car on your trip, venture 30 minutes outside Portland to the Multnomah Falls. This 600-foot tall waterfall will not disappoint.

While you are able to see the falls from your parked car, There are ample walking trails along with as Tourist Center and restaurant. Note the local folklore that surrounds them. According to Native American legend, the falls gave a young princess a private place to bathe.

To be extra impressed, check out the view from Benson Bridge. If you’re scared of heights, you might not want to look down.

6. Portland Saturday Market

Although the market is full of vendors with plenty to buy, you don’t have to make any purchases. Simply walk around and enjoy the hustle and bustle of this busy market. You may just find some interesting characters working the stalls.

The Saturday Market sits on the waterfront, so at the very least you can marvel at the views. Enjoy the live music, people-watch, and live as the locals do.

7. See the Ira Keller Fountain

Located inside the Keller Fountain Park sits a gorgeous industrial fountain. This structure is unlike any other fountain you may have seen. It’s an industrial portrayal of the surrounding waterfalls of Portland.

This monument is one of the many ways Portland tries to incorporate nature with urban life. It’s a fascinating look at this city’s identity that you need to see for yourself.

8. Free Brewery Tour

This one might be hard to believe. “I can tour a brewery and drink beer for free?”

Yes and if you are gluten-free then you’ll be even happier.

The Ground Breaker Brewery makes gluten-free craft beers local to Portland. If you’re a fan of craft brews, you’ll find their brewing process especially interesting. They don’t use any corn or wheat in their recipes.

9. Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

Anyone looking to explore Northwest wildlife needs to check out Oaks Bottom. Here you’ll find some of Portland’s best bird watching and nature observing.

With over 140 acres of conservation space, plenty of animals have made this refuge their home. Visitors report seeing great blue heron, hawks, and woodpeckers.

10. Visit The Streets of The Simpsons

If you’re a fan of The Simpsons, Portland has a special treat for you. Mark Groening, The Simpson’s writer, is from here and he named many of the characters after local streets.

You need to check out NE Flanders street. Someone added a “D” after the NE rightfully marking it as Ned Flanders’ street.

You’ll also enjoy wandering down Quimby, Kearney, and Lovejoy. Stop by Lincoln High to see the Bart drawing Groening drew in the wet concrete of the sidewalk. Take a gander through Montgomery Park and Burns Street for some true-fan magic.

Want More Fun Free Things to do in Portland?

Portland is a city for all budgets. Whether you’re visiting for vacation or live nearby, you’ll find a ton of free things to do in Portland.

You’ll notice that many of the attractions vary from urban and industrial to scenic and natural. Portland is a city that straddles the gap between the natural and manmade. You can get your fill of inner-city culture while enjoying the serenity of the great outdoors.

For more ideas of things to do, places to eat, and what to see, check out our other Portland posts on Clever Neighbor.

What are the best vegan restaurants in Portland?

Portland’s food scene has been one of the reasons so many people have migrated here in the past 5-10 years. (Portlandia can be considered the other.)

Seriously, Portland is one of the best places to be if you love food, beer, and wine. But what about vegan options?

Portland has plenty of those. It’s home to the World’s first Vegan Strip Club in Casa Diablo (and Casa Diablo II). There’s a vegan grocery store (located in the world’s first vegan mini-mall), and even a vegan gym.

Even if a restaurant isn’t fully vegan, they are sure to offer vegan or gluten-free options.

Keep reading to learn what the best vegan restaurants are in Portland.

Getting Around Portland

There are 96 neighborhoods that make up the city, and each one couldn’t be more different from the other.

There are neighborhoods that are older and are growing in popularity, like St. Johns. There are others that you wouldn’t even think of going to, like Multnomah Village.

In just about every neighborhood, you’ll find a place with vegan options.

Vegan dining has come a long way in the last decade, and we’ve come a long way since the days of Tofurky being the only vegan option.

Portland has long been at the forefront of the movement and is considered to be the best place for vegan dining in the country.

The Best Vegan Restaurants in Portland

How does one decide what the best vegan restaurants are? The quality and flavor of the food come first. The creativity of the menu and the reputation all are taken into consideration.

Without further ado, these are the best vegan restaurants in Portland.

Homegrown Smoker

Vegan barbecue.

Those are probably two words that you wouldn’t put together. Yet, at Homegrown Smoker, they are a perfect combination.

Smoked tempeh ribs and soy curls and macaroni and cheese make this place a must on your vegan restaurant list.

Try the SloMoMofo sandwich. You will not regret it.

Virtuous Pie

Voted Restaurant of the Year by Veg News in 2017, Virtuous Pie has built quite a reputation for itself in a short period of time.

If you love pizza and ice cream, you can get both here. You can get a traditional pizza with their homemade nut based cheese or go for something completely different, like the Stranger Wings Pizza. That has a unique combination of buffalo cauliflower, fried shallots, and blue cheese drizzle.

Blossoming Lotus

One of the early additions to the vegan scene in Portland, Blossoming Lotus is where you go for a hot vegan date or to enjoy a night out with friends.

The menu is somewhat small, but you can get small plates, large plates, and salads.

They’ve been offering more raw menu options in recent years.

The menus change frequently, based on what’s in season. Their cocktails are outstanding and if you don’t drink alcohol, the lavender lemonade is something you must try.

Vita Cafe

If you’ve ever wanted to go to an old school diner that’s vegan, Vita Cafe is about as close as you’ll get.

It’s vegan and vegetarian, so you will see eggs and cheese on the menu. Breakfast is served until 3 pm every day, and you better go when you’re hungry.

The portion sizes are generous, to say the least, whether you get a tofu scramble or a vegan BLT sandwich.

Back to Eden Bakery

Back to Eden opened in 2009 as a vegan ice cream and pastry shop. It grew over the years and opened a second location and expanded to include a full restaurant menu.

You can get pizza, brunch, salads, and more. Of course, don’t forget about the ice cream.

A Little Nectar

They say if you’re going to do one thing, make sure you do it well. That seems to be the philosophy of A Little Nectar.

The one thing they do – waffles. That’s right, vegan waffles. You can get them topped with mushroom gravy, jalapeno cream cheese, and avocado or sweet apples.

It’s a small place, so you’ll want to get there early.

Vegan Brunch in Portland

You’re not a Portlander until you do brunch. If you’ve ever watched the scene in Portlandia when they go to brunch, it might be a send-up, but it’s not too far from the truth.

People will wait for 90 minutes to get into their favorite brunch spot. It can turn into quite the spectacle when you’re driving along Hawthorne and you see a line out of every restaurant.

While it may seem insane, it is a part of the culture here that you should experience.

Which vegan restaurants have the best brunch?

A Little Nectar, Back to Eden and Vita Cafe are great choices. If you want something slightly more upscale, Blossoming Lotus is an excellent choice.

If you have a group where some want plant-based and others don’t check out Jam on Hawthorne, The Tin Shed, and Slappy Cakes.

Other Vegan Goodies to Note

While these places aren’t restaurants, they’re still worth a visit for snacks, dessert, or an awfully sweet treat.

For example, you can check out the Sweet Pea Baking Company. It’s a vegan mainstay in Portland, and you can find it in the vegan mini-mall on SE 12th and Stark St.

It’s great for a quick bite and a sweet treat afterward.

You can visit Portland’s first vegan donut shop, which is Doe Donuts. It’s on 82nd and Powell, which is a little bit of a drive outside of downtown, but well worth it.

No too far from there is Jet-Black Coffee Company, a punk rocker’s dream, and vegan coffee shop.

Vegan Love in Portland

Portland has had the reputation of being the weird kid in between Seattle and San Francisco. It’s grown up quite a bit in recent years and those folks from Seattle and San Francisco have flocked to Portland.

Portland’s vegan food scene grew up along with it. At a time when there were several options, over the last 10 years, the vegan scene blew up and these restaurants can compete with any restaurant for the title of best restaurant in Portland.

If you want more great tips about the best that Portland has to offer, check out our blog.

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