Madeline & Ethan
Things To Do
Portland Japanese Garden
The Portland Japanese Garden offers a tranquil escape with its meticulously designed landscapes, including koi-filled ponds, a traditional tea house, and serene sand and stone gardens . Often hailed as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside Japan, it's an ideal spot for peaceful reflection and immersion in nature's beauty.
Powell's City of Books
This Portland icon is the largest and most extensive independent bookstore you will ever visit! It occupies an entire city block and boasts over one million new and used books. In addition to its vast selection, Powell's offers frequent author events, a rare book room, and a coffee shop, making it a literary landmark for both locals and visitors.
Nob Hill
Nob Hill is our favorite district to walk around, eat, and shop! Visit the On flagship store, try the flavors of the month at Salt & Straw, hit up boutiques with locally made items, and grab coffee or food at one of many cafes and restaurants.
Multnomah Falls
Just a 30-minute drive from Portland, Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall, plunging 620 feet in a stunning two-tiered cascade. Easily accessible via a short paved trail, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the historic Benson Bridge and explore further along scenic hiking paths in the Columbia River Gorge.
The Trail of Ten Falls
The Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park is a 7.2-mile loop that guides hikers through a lush canyon to ten stunning waterfalls, five of which are over 100 feet tall. Notably, the trail allows visitors to walk behind four of these cascades, offering a unique and immersive waterfall experience.
Wineries in Willamette Valley
Beautiful views, amazing wine, there are hundreds of top-notch wineries in the Willamette Valley to check out! Most are within 30-45 minutes of Portland. You can't go wrong with any of them, but some of our favorites are: Furioso Vineyards, Domaine Willamette, Blakeslee Vineyard Estate, Mt. Hood Winery
Cannon Beach
If you're looking for a day trip, Cannon Beach is charming coastal town renowned for its iconic Haystack Rock, expansive sandy shores, and vibrant arts scene. Just 90 minutes from Portland, it's a perfect getaway for beachcombing, tidepooling, and soaking in Pacific Northwest beauty.
Trillium Lake
Located in the Mount Hood National Forest, Trillium Lake is less than a 90 minute drive from Portland. It offers breathtaking views of Mount Hood mirrored on its tranquil waters. Rent paddle boards or kayaks on site, or take a casual stroll on a trail around the lake. Make sure to have $10 cash on hand or to purchase a NW Forest Day Pass.
Jam On Hawthorne
A beloved Portland brunch spot offering a diverse menu that caters to vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike. The perfect place to enjoy a boozy brunch or leisurely meal in the heart of the Hawthorne District. We LOVE the Kimchi & Cheddar Hash and the Maddie Cakes.
Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai
Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai in Portland is a cozy gem known for its made-to-order mini doughnuts and house-blended chai flights. With inventive flavors like honey & sea salt and spicy ginger chai, it’s the perfect spot for a sweet, soul-warming treat.
Churn Cafe
Churn Cafe and Crêperie, located on Portland's Mississippi Avenue, offers a delightful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and classic breakfast fare. Their menu features both sweet and savory crepes, such as the pandan waffles with fried chicken and the ube French toast, complemented by specialty coffees, matcha, and cocktails. The neighborhood is a super cute place to walk around after your meal!
Pine State Biscuits
Pine State Biscuits is a beloved Portland eatery known for its hearty Southern-inspired breakfast fare. With multiple locations across the city, it's a must-visit spot for comfort food enthusiasts seeking a satisfying start to their day. Maddie's favorite is The Chatfield.
Eem
Get ready for the best Thai food and cocktails you will ever have! Eem doesn't take reservations so get there early and put your name down. The white and massaman curries are our favorites.
Janken
An upscale Japanese-Korean fusion restaurant in Portland’s Pearl District, offering a refined dining experience with dishes like smoked wagyu nigiri, Peking duck, and A5 wagyu served tableside on hot stones. Helmed by chef Rodrigo Ochoa, the restaurant features a full sushi bar and inventive cocktails, making it ideal for special occasions and culinary enthusiasts seeking a memorable meal.
G-Love New American Kitchen
G-Love is a New American restaurant in Portland's Slabtown neighborhood, celebrated for its vegetable-centric menu. It offers a unique dining experience that emphasizes locally sourced produce in a vibrant setting. We recommend ordering a variety of plates to share! Our favorite menu items were the Crusty Avocado, Short Rib and any of the Skewers
Hawthorne Asylum Food Cart Pod
Hawthorne Food Asylum is a vibrant collective of food carts serving up an eclectic mix of global flavors. With everything from spicy Thai noodles to wood-fired pizza and vegan comfort food, it's a must-visit for food lovers looking to sample the city's culinary creativity in a laid-back, outdoor setting. Perfect for casual hangouts, quick bites, or a foodie adventure off the beaten path
Hale Pele
Hale Pele is a vibrant tiki bar in Portland's Grant Park neighborhood, offering an immersive experience with its exotic cocktails, island-inspired small plates, and a captivating ambiance featuring tropical decor and occasional thunderstorm effects. An Ethan approved site for a themed taste of island flair.
Bible Club PDX
A prohibition-era speakeasy nestled in a 1922 Craftsman house in Portland's Sellwood neighborhood. Known for its vintage charm, the bar offers a curated selection of spirits and inventive cocktails, providing a unique and immersive drinking experience