photo: TravelPortland.com

When out exploring, each of Portland’s neighborhoods has a different flavor, if you will. To the southeast, you’ll find Division Street, named one of America’s 10 Best Foodie Streets by Food and Wine magazine, and the eclectic Hawthorne Belmont District. On the west side, The Pearl is Portland’s best-known arts district. Nob Hill, or Northwest Portland, gives a glimpse into the city’s architectural history, with boutiques housed in the historic Victorian-style homes. Of course, Portland being the city of roses, you can find the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park. The brand-new Portland Japanese Gardens are a bastion of reflection and solitude in this area as well.

To the northeast, the Mississippi District is quickly emerging as one of the trendiest neighborhoods of east Portland. You could (and I did) spend an afternoon getting lost among the clothing boutiques, specialty markets, neighborhood bars and eateries. Wander over to Alberta Street for a multicultural Portland experience.

In Portland, there’s a story around every corner. At ADX you can try your hand at becoming a maker yourself. There are too many coffee roasters to count, but Cup and Bar (pictured on previous page) combines two of my favorite vices: coffee and chocolate. You can grab a pint of craft beer on nearly every corner, try some specialty tea at Smith Teamaker, or try some of the best chocolate you will ever sample at Alma Chocolate (pictured above). Is cheese more your thing? Ancient Heritage Dairy is one of the first urban dairies in Portland, and you can buy their specialty cheeses next door at Alma’s.