photo: Jamie Francis/TravelPortland.com

An absolute must for those of us in love with the smell of leather and the pleasure of a new handbag or wallet, at Orox Leather Co. brothers Martin, Kevin and Levi Martinez continue their family tradition of creating handcrafted leather products that are beautiful, stylish and stand the test of time. After purchasing a hat while in Portland, I’ve been unable to resist the urge to buy gifts from Orox (some for myself) upon my return to Phoenix.

If time is limited, but you want to explore some of the items that boast the slogan, “Made in Portland,” Made Here PDX, right across the street from the famous Powell’s Books, features products from some of the city’s best makers.

Of course, Portland is an outdoor paradise as well, with miles of hiking and biking trails close to the urban center. Countless entrepreneurs have turned their passions and hobbies into thriving Portland businesses. It’s nearly impossible to experience all there is to eat, explore, and do in Portland in just one visit, but it’s sure fun to try.