Portland's Shopping Mecca Is A Former Warehouse District Near Downtown Full Of Parks, Galleries, And Eateries
Downtown Portland, Oregon, is an eclectic destination. Here, visitors will discover everything from a fun summer swimming hole to the Portland Art Museum. While there is much to explore, there is a nearby neighborhood that is bound to lure you in: the Pearl District. Now a lively shopping mecca with trendy retailers like Reformation, Anthropologie, and others, the Pearl District wasn't always as coveted. This area in northwest Portland was once nothing but warehouses. That changed beginning in the 1970s and into the 2000s when this former industrial zone that was filled with railroads, was revitalized. Within these decades, the Pearl District saw the addition of green spaces, galleries, and eateries.
Nevertheless, a common theme you'll find in the Pearl District is the blend of the old with the new. Take, for instance, Tanner Springs Park. Situated on the site of what was once a lake, it masterfully blends architecture and history. The park features a pond surrounded by greenery and urban-style buildings, with one reviewer on Google suggesting that the area is, "A gorgeous place to quiet your mind, sit with friends and embrace the art of nothing and nature." Blue Sky, is a noteworthy photography gallery that's located in the DeSoto Building, a structure that dates back to the 1910s. Open Wednesday to Saturday, stop by to see their latest exhibits, which are frequently rotated.
When it comes to food, the Pearl District has a variety of cuisines to choose from. One spot worth mentioning is Andina, an upscale Peruvian establishment that was named one of the best restaurants in the neighborhood by Eater Portland. Andina only serves dinner, dishing up menu items like lomo saltado and scallop ceviche. Also, the Pearl District is walkable, meaning that all of this neighborhood's attractions are easily accessible to visitors.
With coffee, books, and more, you can't go wrong with Portland's Pearl District
There are countless ways one can spend a day in the Pearl District. Nevertheless, if you prefer a clear-cut itinerary, here are some suggestions. Start your day off in the Pearl District at Ovation Coffee & Tea. This local establishment specializes in Moroccan-style drinks offering everything from a Moroccan cappuccino to Moroccan mint tea. It's also feet away from The Fields Park. Grab something to sip on and have a stroll through this green space before making the short walk to Powell's City of Books. Along the way, you'll pass by Tanner Springs Park, as well as Jamison Square, known for its incredible fountain where little ones beat the heat during the summer months.
That said, Powell's was established in 1971 and is housed in what was once a car dealership. This must-see Pearl District attraction is the largest independent bookstore in the world. Due to its sheer size, you can spend hours here, the aisles filled with every type of book you can imagine. Additionally, this is a great place to purchase gifts and souvenirs for friends and family. When your stomach starts rumbling, walk over to Screen Door. Rated 4.5 stars on Yelp, the eatery offers Southern-style fare such as chicken and waffles and a crispy chicken sandwich. Note that Screen Door serves brunch and dinner, closing in between these two services.
However, you cannot leave the neighborhood without including art into the mix — the Pearl District is and has always been a creative hub. A few blocks away from Powell's and Screen Door is Blackfish Gallery, a long-standing institution featuring works by artists based in Oregon. Exhibits change monthly and include different mediums ranging from photography to sculptures. Blackfish Gallery is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Why should you include the Pearl District in your Portland travel plans?
If you're planning to travel to Portland and have never been before, the Pearl District, located about 25 minutes away from Portland International Airport (PDX), is a wonderful introduction to the city. Ultimately, it demonstrates how you can enhance a neighborhood without completely decimating its history. As the Pearl District borders downtown and Old Town, it grants visitors swift access to other significant Portland attractions. This includes Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where you can appreciate the beauty of the Willamette River and Lan Su Chinese Garden, a "creative wonder" that provides an escape from Portland's Big City Bustle.
Although all of these neighborhoods are extremely walkable, don't hesitate to take advantage of the city's public transportation system. The Portland Streetcar's NS Line, for example, can take you to the Pearl District from downtown and back. If you want to stay in the middle of everything, consider booking a room at Hampton Inn & Suites Portland-Pearl District, a top-rated Portland hotel featuring an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast. If you desire accommodations with historical character, there's the art-deco-inspired Harlow Hotel, housed in a structure from 1882. On average, one night at either will cost less than $200.
If visiting Portland during the spring, summer, or fall, check if your travel plans coincide with the Pearl District's First Thursday. This free evening outdoor market features art, food stalls, extended hours for many of the neighborhood's local galleries, and much more. In short, it captures the unique and free spirit of the Pearl District and is a great experience for travelers and locals alike.