Any Portland Must See's?

MrsMirMaz

I saw the thread below but it seemed more focused on travel and lodging. I'm going to be in Portland for a conference and have one free day. This is my first trip to the west coast so I'm clueless. Are there must see sites or museums in Portland?

hurricanekeri

MrsMirMaz:

I saw the thread below but it seemed more focused on travel and lodging. I'm going to be in Portland for a conference and have one free day. This is my first trip to the west coast so I'm clueless. Are there must see sites or museums in Portland?

Unfornately, this is becoming more of the case. 

I would see OMSI, the pittock mansion, japanese gardens, and the rose gardens.

dutchgrl678

I would start downtown and walk around the Park Blocks. See if there is a good exhibit at the Portland Art museum. If the weather is nice, check out the Rose Garden and Japanese Garden. Walk around in the Pearl district and check out all the repurposed wearhouses that are turned into cute little stores and restaurants and breweries. Powell's book store is a popular stop as well.

DramaGeek

What day of the week do you have free and where will you be?

 Assuming  it's a week day and you'll be based downtown, I would take a walk on the waterfront, possibly rent a bike from the Albertina Kerr bike rental by the Salmon St fountain, and head up to NW 23rd for some shopping and lunch.  On the way, I'd pull into Powell's (but beware - you could easily spend all day there!).  Happy hour at Portland City Grill is great because they have a great view.  I also love Pittock mansion, but you'd need a car to get there unless you don't mind a healthy walk or bike ride.

MrsMirMaz

Thank you for all the suggestions! I should have some time on Thursday and Friday totally free. I'll be staying dowtown. The bike rental is a wonderful idea!