Things To Do
Powell's City of Books
A Portland icon and one of our all-time favorite places, Powell’s is the largest independent bookstore in the world—and a total dream for book lovers. We go here regularly to browse (and usually leave with more than we meant to), and even took some of our bridal photos among the shelves! Whether you're hunting for a new read, a quirky gift, or just want to lose yourself for a while, it's worth a visit. Bonus: there's a cozy cafe inside, perfect for flipping through your finds.
International Rose Test Garden
Located within Portland’s sprawling Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden is a must-see—especially if you're a flower fan (or just want a great photo op). It’s home to over 10,000 rose bushes and more than 600 varieties, which is just as stunning as it sounds. The garden is peaceful, fragrant, and bursting with color—it's honestly hard to believe so many types of roses exist in one place. While you’re in the area, you can also explore other gems in Washington Park, like the Oregon Zoo and the Hoyt Arboretum. And if it’s a clear day, don’t miss the view of Mt. Hood from the top of the garden—it’s a showstopper.
Peninsula Park
A hidden gem in North Portland, Peninsula Park feels like a mini version of the International Rose Test Garden—complete with a charming fountain at its center and perfectly manicured rose-lined paths. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and a lovely spot for a slow stroll or quiet moment. This spot is extra special to us: it was one of the locations on a birthday scavenger hunt Ryan put together for Kaitlyn (🥹). So yeah, we’re biased—but we think you’ll love it too.
Food Cart Pods
If there’s one thing Portland knows how to do, it’s food carts. These aren’t just quick bites—they’re a way of life here. Instead of one big food truck, think mini restaurants with serious culinary chops, gathered into outdoor pods with covered seating, string lights, and sometimes even fire pits or beer carts. You’ll find everything from smoky Korean BBQ to vegan comfort food to wild fusion experiments you didn’t know you needed. Here are a few of our favorite spots to explore: – Cartside (N Mississippi): Great mix of cuisines with indoor seating and a beer bar. This our our neighborhood cart pod and we LOVE it. Our favorites are Schwarma Truck and Areli's. – Prost! Marketplace (N Mississippi & Skidmore): Showcased on the Portland episode of Somebody Feed Phil! Matt's BBQ is Portland famous. – Hawthorne Asylum (SE 11th & Madison): A whimsical, slightly goth pod with a huge variety of eats. Try Le Bistro Montage Ala Cart for some insane mac and cheese.
Thrifting on Hawthorne
Love a good treasure hunt? Head to Hawthorne Blvd for some of Portland’s best thrifting. Spots like House of Vintage and a string of other second-hand gems line this quirky, bustling street. Whether you go Saturday or save it for Sunday, it’s a fun way to shop local and maybe score the perfect funky souvenir.
Portland Saturday Market
If you’re looking for something to do Saturday morning, the Portland Saturday Market is a great option! It’s a lively outdoor market along the waterfront with local art, crafts, snacks, and often live music. Just don’t get too swept up in the festivities—we expect to see your lovely face at the wedding promptly at 4pm. 😉