Kellie & Mark
Not to Miss
Salt & Straw
As far as ice cream goes, Salt & Straw is as good as it gets. With creative flavors like Arbequina Olive Oil and Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper, your taste buds are sure to go wild with the flavors this shop scoops up. Their rotation of seasonal flavors is always exciting and they allow unlimited tastes to make sure you land on your perfect flavor. If you ask us, you can't go wrong with the Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache. Pro Tip: be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak hours.
Blue Star Donuts
We know you’ve heard of Voo Doo Donuts, but consider changing your “must visit pastry place” to this sweet little shop in Southwest Portland. Serving up donuts with super creative flavors, Blue Star is a great way to skip the long line of tourists you’re sure to find at Voo Doo.
Paadee
The Thai phrase “paa dee” literally means “to bring good things”. This unassuming spot serves up delicious Thai plates during lunch, happy hour, dinner, and well into the early hours of the morning on the weekends. Go with a group and share what you get, you're sure to not be disappointed with whatever you order. Pro tip: make sure your whole party is there before you order. You won't be sat if you're waiting for a group member.
Stoller Family Estate
If you have some time for wine tasting over the holiday weekend, might we suggest Stoller Family Estate? This winery bosts a beautiful, modern tasting room, a family (and pet!) friendly atmosphere, and affordable wines to boot. We love the rosé but don't take our word for it!
Pelican Brewing – Cannon Beach
There are tons of amazing brew pubs in Oregon, specifically on the coast, but our go-to tends to be Pelican Brewing. Whether we visit the original Pacific City location or their sister restaurant in Cannon Beach, Pelican never disappoints. We highly recommend the Kiwanda Cream Ale but give a flight a shot and try any of their delicious brews. If you do end up at the Cannon Beach location, don't forget to take the short walk down to Haystack Rock. We visited there right after Mark popped the question and the sunsets can't be beat!
Vista House at Crown Point
Have some time for a day trip on Labor Day? Don’t miss out on the scenic Columbia River Gorge. Head out to Vista House for sweeping views of the Columbia River and explore the Art Nouveau style, octagonal observatory housing a museum dedicated to the property.