Portland City Guide

Food is diverse with local favorites like Voodoo Doughnut and Pok Pok. Food carts are popular. International flavors include Asian, Mexican, and European. Vegan and vegetarian options are abundant. Late-night food is common downtown.

Nightlife is lively with craft breweries, dive bars, live music, and dance clubs.

Portland is known for its strong coffee culture with many specialty roasters and independent shops. Coffee tours are available.

Tipping is expected. 15-20% in restaurants and rideshares. $1-2 per coffee or drink. Standard for services like haircuts and massages.

SIM cards can be bought at carrier stores like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, or electronics stores like Best Buy. Major carriers offer good coverage and eSIM options. No ID is usually needed for prepaid.

Cleanliness varies; downtown and tourist areas are managed but some spots show litter or homelessness impact.

Few 24/7 services. Some pharmacies and convenience stores open late but fully 24/7 options are limited.

Groceries are easy to find with international products available, especially around SE 82nd Avenue. Main supermarkets include Fred Meyer, Safeway, New Seasons, and Whole Foods. Farmers markets offer fresh local produce in warmer months.

Most businesses take cards. Small vendors or food carts rarely are cash-only.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Fees for using out-of-network machines usually cost $2.50 to $5.00.

Public schools are part of Portland Public Schools. International options include French American International School and German American School offering instruction in English, French, and German.

Portland has a growing digital nomad scene with meetups and plenty of nomad-friendly cafés. Co-living options exist but are limited.

Excellent green space with large urban forests and parks like Forest Park and Washington Park offering shaded trails.

Popular routes include Forest Park's Wildwood Trail and Waterfront Park. Running groups meet regularly. Air quality may be poor during wildfire season.

Several chain gyms and local fitness centers are available, plus community centers with facilities.

Many public tennis courts in parks like Washington Park. Some require reservations, others are first-come, first-served. Private clubs and coaching available.

Padel facilities are not common in Portland.

Several yoga studios offer varied styles and meditation centers. Drop-in classes and memberships are common; English-speaking instructors standard.

Wide range of martial arts gyms and dojos offering BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, Karate, and Taekwondo with English-speaking instructors.

Mount Hood resorts like Timberline offer skiing 1.5 hours away. Season runs Nov-April, with year-round skiing on Palmer Glacier. Slopes suit all levels; equipment rentals available.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular on the Willamette River with good rental options and guided tours during late spring to early fall.

Surfing is on the Oregon Coast, about 1.5-2 hours away. Water is cold year-round (50-55°F), requiring a wetsuit. Best in fall and winter with bigger waves; summer is more beginner-friendly.

Limited diving near Portland. Some cold-water diving on the coast but is difficult and suited to experienced divers.

OHSU and Providence St. Vincent offer quality care with English-speaking staff. Private healthcare is common and reliable. Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS are widespread.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets all standards.

Lots of playgrounds in parks like Washington Park and Forest Park. Kid-friendly cafés in neighborhoods like SE Hawthorne. Baby supplies easy to find. Attractions include Oregon Zoo, OMSI, and Children's Museum.

One of the most LGBTQ+ friendly US cities with strong protections, safe spaces, and active community groups. Pride events are popular.

Very pet-friendly. Many parks have off-leash areas. Veterinary care and pet stores are common. Many pet-friendly restaurants and accommodations.