Ellen & Jonathan
Things To Do
Hoyt Arboretum
Is the weather working out? If so, check out some of Portland's beautiful hikes within city limits! First up, Hoyt Arboretum was where we took some of our favorite engagement photos. Experience it for yourself with miles of trails, the Redwood Grove, or even meander all the way to the Oregon Zoo.
Lower Macleay Park
Lower Macleay Park is one of many entrances to Portland's Forest Park, miles and miles of trails in the mountains to Portland's west. You can do a short loop to the Witch's Castle, or venture all the way up to our next destination if you enjoy a good challenge.
Pittock Mansion
No tourist guide of Portland is complete without mentioning Pittock Mansion! If the challenging hike up the hill isn't your thing, don't worry: there's a parking lot at the top. As a disclaimer, I would only recommend checking out this site if it's a clear sunny day to enjoy it's gorgeous view of the city & Mt. Hood.
Powell's City of Books
Portland's famous bookstore claims to be the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world. Is it? We won't know for sure, so you'll have to find out. Worth checking out just to marvel at the sheer number of books, you can spend all the time you want here exploring or request a visit in the rare book room.
Hopscotch Portland
If you like immersive and interactive art, this place is for you. Make sure to book tickets in advance!
Eem - Thai BBQ & Cocktails
Once you get hungry with all the exploring, check out one of Portland's many many delicious restaurants. Eem tops the list of places Jonathan sends out-of-town visitors, and just so happens to be one of Portland's most famous restaurants.
Papa Haydn
Papa Haydn's has been around for decades, and is a local favorite for desserts. Our favorite is the Baked Alaska.
Salt & Straw
Slowly becoming a national sensation, Salt & Straw Ice Cream started here in Portland. Before you go, be prepared not just for sweet ice cream, but potentially savory or spicy! Our favorite thing to do is their recommendation: try as many flavors as possible, and be bold!
Momoyama Restaurant
If you have a hankering for sushi, this excellent sushi restaurant is in the Pearl close to our wedding venue & hotel. Heads up, a bit on the pricey side, but well worth it.
Mama Bird
Just how good can wood fire roasted and smoked chicken be? We recommend you find out for yourself! Mama Bird has never disappointed. Favorite dishes: whole bird, cornbread, and aji verde sauce.
Bamboo Sushi
Portland's trendiest sushi place is located just next to Powell's City of Books. Pitched as the world's first fully sustainable sushi restaurant, Bamboo Sushi has enjoyed great success and expanded to multiple locations.