Norwitz Notions

We only had one day to spend in Portland, Oregon and it was a scorcher.  We decided to do our neighborhood roaming in the morning and then find indoor spots for most of the day.  We then met friends for dinner.

Portland Travels Overview

A) Alberta Street in the NE section.

We drove up and down Alberta & Killingsworth Streets and walked about in an area with some interesting looking stores.  It was mostly too spread out for walking and most places were closed early Saturday morning.

Portland Downtown Area

B) Multnomah County Central Library. 801 S.W. 10th Avenue.

This was a great spot to kill a few hours. We drove there and managed to find parking.  Note for Portland newbies: there is a huge difference between east and west.  Many of the numbered streets duplicate.  Downtown is west.  (more…)

C) Portland Streetcar to the Pearl District.  Downtown.

Right in front of the library, on SW 10th Ave, there is the Portland Streetcar that runs often and is free in the immediate downtown area.  We took it north to a neighborhood called the Pearl District, which was a fun place to walk around and see the sights.  We popped into Whole Foods for a quick bite to eat (including a grilled peach with berry sauce dessert which was a free sample) and a safe bathroom.  Then we zigzagged a bit along the main parallel streets until we reached the southern edge of the district where Powell’s was.

D) Powell’s Bookstore.  1005 W Burnside.

This local chain is a Portland institution and this branch is the largest.  Several stories on practically a whole city block.  We could have spent days there.  The bathrooms are scented.  The building has elevators and is basically wheelchair accessible, if you don’t have to reach too high.  There are plenty of places to sit, especially in the children’s section, which has tables and chairs like a library.

E) Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. 1945 SE Water Avenue.

Known in Portland simply as OMSI, this 2 story building filled with exhibits for all ages was a nice way to stay cool.  (more…)

F) Kalga Kafe. 4147 SE Division St.

Lovely vegetarian restaurant.  Great place to meet friends and end the day.  (more…)

Greater Portland Area

After our day in the city, we went back to Champoeg State Park.  A mere half hour drive away, it was an inexpensive way to be close to town.