That Portland Life

Portland Lifestyle and Real Estate

Contact Us!

Lifestyle

March Events

by Leave a Comment

The beginning of spring brings back some of our absolute favorite events! There are also a ton of activities to help celebrate St. Patricks Day! We hope that march brings about some warm and drier weather for us and we hope to see you at some of these events!

Ticket to Dine

Ticket to Dine restaurant month is back for it’s second year. Eat at one of the particiapting restaurants and win a scratch off tickets for a chance at a litany of prizes ranging from freed drinks to sporting event tickets.

  • Multiple Locations
  • Pricing Varies
  • MORE INFO
  • March 1st – March 31st

Portland Seafood and Wine Festival

Enjoy fresh Oregon seafood (at the peak of Dungeness Crab season) as well as wine, craft beers, cider, and distilled spirits as you browse the myriad of exhibitors. Over 30 of Oregon’s finest wineries (and 20 other beverage makers) offer you tastings of their very best. 

Winter Music Festival

Celebrating over ten years of music and still going strong. This festival gives you great entertainment for a few hours and a chance to get out of the house before spring begins and help the community.

SheBrew

The 9th Annual SheBrew Festival is a family-friendly beer and cider festival showcasing over 50 professional female brewers and 10 homebrewers from the Pacific Northwest.

Bricks Cascade

Head to the Oregon Convention Center for the annual Bricks Cascade, Portland’s premier public LEGO event. See creations from hundreds of builders from the Pacific Northwest and worldwide in this two-day event. 

St. Patricks Day Events

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

Best Indoor Activities

by Leave a Comment

February in Portland often reaches the point where the relentless rain starts to wear on everyone. While some escape to sunnier destinations, others find joy right here in the city, exploring Portland’s amazing indoor activities. If you’re looking to shake off the dreary weather without leaving town, you’re in luck. Here are some of our favorite things to do away from the rain.

Museums

  • Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): A family favorite, OMSI is an educational wonderland. Here, hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and even a submarine tour offer an exciting and informative experience for visitors of all ages.
  • Portland Art Museum: A serene haven for art aficionados, this museum boasts a diverse collection that spans ancient artifacts to contemporary art pieces. It’s a tranquil spot for adults to immerse themselves in the world of art and creativity.
  • Hopscotch PDX: For those seeking a unique, artistic escape from the rain, Hopscotch PDX offers an immersive art experience that’s sure to captivate. This interactive exhibit blends visual art, technology, and soundscapes to create a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Escape Rooms

  • Escapology Renowned for its highly immersive and challenging escape rooms, Escapology offers an array of themed adventures, perfect for puzzle enthusiasts looking for a thrilling experience.
  • Escapism Step into captivating environments with complex puzzles, offering a memorable and exciting escape room experience.
  • Escape Games PDX Test your wits in unique themed rooms ranging from the mysterious Sherlock Holmes to the quirky Portlandia.
  • Hour to Midnight Known for its meticulously crafted sets and engaging storylines, this venue provides an interactive and engaging adventure for all.

Wine Tasting Rooms

  • Enso Winery SE: This cozy urban winery offers a relaxing atmosphere and a diverse selection of local wines, perfect for unwinding.
  • Erath Winery NW: A pioneer in Oregon winemaking, Erath Winery is known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and a wide range of varietals that showcase the unique terroir of the region.
  • Boedecker Cellars NW: Renowned for its elegant and expressive wines, Boedecker Cellars provides an intimate setting to explore some of Portland’s finest locally crafted wines.
  • Battle Creek Cellars NW: Step into this inviting cellar to sample an array of exceptional wines from the Willamette Valley.

Indoor Climbing Gyms

  • The Circuit Bouldering Gym NE: A world-class bouldering gym offering challenges for all skill levels.
  • Movement Portland NW: Features quality climbing routes and bouldering areas, suitable for both novices and experts.
  • Portland Rock Gym NE: Enhance your climbing skills with a variety of courses and training programs at this premier gym.

We hope some of these things help you to beat the grey weather. Let us know your favorite things to do on rainy days. Looking for other lists of things to do? Find those HERE

February Events

by Leave a Comment

The beginning of February brings about some of Portlands favorite annual events. We have the celebration of black history month, the winter light festival, and Oregon craft beer month! Let’s get into some of the things we are most excited for!

Cascade Festival of African Films

The festival is a tribute to the filmmakers whose dedication and creativity have brought extraordinary stories to life. It’s an ode to the audience whose appreciation and support fuel African cinema’s continued growth and evolution. 

  • Multiple Locations
  • Free
  • MORE INFO
  • Feburary 2nd – March 3rd

Portland Winter Light Festival

The festival’s theme in 2024 is Glowing Under Pressure, exploring the mysteries of the deep sea and inspired by bioluminescent wonders. There is no centralized location this year so check the website for the schedule.

  • Various Locations
  • Free
  • MORE INFO
  • February 2nd – 10th

Dumpling Week

A citywide celebration featuring inventive dumpling creations that you won’t find anywhere else. Participating restaurants will serve up special dumplings unavailable on their regular menus for dining in, take-out and/or delivery.

  • Various Locations
  • pricing varies
  • MORE INFO
  • February 4th – 10th

Lunar New Year at Lan Su Chinese Gardens

Welcome the Year of the Dragon at Portland’s most iconic Lunar New Year celebration experience. witness the garden aglow with hanging red lanterns, illuminating sweeping rooflines while Lake Zither reflects the lights of large-scale floating lantern sculptures. They are also offering special holiday teas in the newly reopened tea house!

  • Lan Su Chinese Garden
  • pricing varies
  • MORE INFO
  • February 7th – 28th

SW Washington Wine and Chocolate Festival

Visit individual tasting rooms in Clark and Cowlitz counties to sample local wines paired with artisan chocolates for Southwest Washington Winery Association St Valentine’s Wine and Chocolate Festival.

  • Various Locations
  • Wine tastings vary by location
  • MORE INFO
  • February 9th – 18th

Mardi Gras Ball

The New Orleans Times-Picayune has listed Portland’s annual Mardi Gras Ball as one of the top five most authentic Mardi Gras celebrations in the United States outside Louisiana.

Trail Blazers Celebration of Black History

Join Portland’s NBA team, the Portland Trail Blazers, at their annual Celebration of Black History. This event honors the city’s Black and African American community and celebrates their contributions nationwide.

  • Moda Center
  • Cost Varies
  • MORE INFO
  • February 10th

Mardi Gras Parade

Each year the Mysti Krewe of Nimbus hosts a free, family-friendly  Mardi Gras parade for everyone. The parade steps off at 7:00 pm starting near Humboldt St and proceeds down Mississippi Avenue to Cook St.,  just past Fremont.

Portland Jazz Festival

The Biamp Portland Jazz Festival is a two-week multi-venue celebration of jazz presented in Portland, Oregon. The Festival is dedicated to evolving America’s art form, featuring recognized jazz masters and rising jazz stars, alongside local jazz heroes.

  • Various Locations
  • Pricing Varies
  • MORE INFO
  • February 16th – March 2nd

Zwicklemania

Named after the “zwickel,” a German word for the sample port found on fermentation vessels, Zwickelmania is an annual celebration of craft beer in Oregon. The Oregon Brewers Guild is pleased to announce that more than 50 breweries are participating in this tradition. 

  • Wonder Ballroom
  • Free tastes at most breweries
  • MORE INFO
  • February 17th

Highball Week

Get ready for an ENTIRE WEEK of specially crafted, original cocktails mixed by the best bartenders in town… and get this; they’re only $8 each.

  • Various Locations
  • $8 per cocktail
  • MORE INFO
  • February 20th – 26th

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

Han Oak

by Leave a Comment

As a fervent lover of Korean cuisine, I’m always on the lookout for places that capture its essence and authenticity. In my culinary adventures across Portland, Han Oak has emerged not just as a restaurant, but as a celebration of Korean flavors, marrying tradition with modernity. This gem in Portland is a testament to the versatility and richness of Korean cuisine, and my recent visit there was nothing short of spectacular.

jessica berger, han oak
The Ambiance: A Blend of Tradition and Modern Comfort

Han Oak is not your typical dining venue. It brings Korean-inspired cuisine to life in a setting that’s both intimate and inviting. The ambiance of the restaurant is akin to dining in a stylish, welcoming home. The decor is a thoughtful mix of minimalist and cozy, creating an environment where every meal feels like a special occasion.

The dining experience at Han Oak is further elevated by its exceptionally relaxed yet attentive service. The staff was knowledgeable, not only about the menu items but also in their tips on crafting the perfect gimbap roll and suggesting flavor combinations. Their attentiveness shone through as they were quick to refill our sides and ensure that every aspect of our meal was taken care of, enhancing the overall enjoyment of our dining experience.

Cocktails and Starters: A Prelude to the Feast

Our evening began with an exploration of Han Oak’s cocktail menu, featuring the “On Screen Chemistry” and “You’ll Be Hearing From My Lawyer.” Each cocktail was a masterful blend of flavors, setting a high bar for the meal to come. The banchan selection was our first foray into the meal, with each small dish – from the beets in miso ginger vinaigrette to the silken tofu in chili vinegar – showcasing the depth and variety of Korean cuisine.

cocktails, han oak
banchan, han oak
The Gimbap Party: A Culinary Adventure

The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the Gimbap Party Menu. Served in a sizzling stone bowl, the selection included beef bulgogi, pork shoulder, and a delightful assortment of pickled vegetables. However, the star of the show was the cured scallops, which added an exquisite touch to our DIY gimbap rolls. The interactive nature of this meal not only allowed for personalized flavors but also added a fun and engaging element to our dining experience.

gimbap roll, han oak
Final Reflections on Han Oak

Han Oak is a place where my love for Korean cuisine is not only met but exceeded. From the harmonious ambiance and impeccable service to the innovative dishes and fun-filled karaoke, Han Oak stands as a beacon of culinary excellence in Portland. It’s a must-visit for anyone who shares a passion for Korean cuisine and looks for an experience that goes beyond just dining.

Best Mocktail bars

by Leave a Comment

Celebrate Without the Hangover

In recent years, Portland has not only embraced but also championed the rise of the mocktail, creating a prominent scene for those seeking alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks. This vibrant city, known for its innovative and inclusive culinary and beverage culture, has become a hub for those looking to enjoy the social aspects of drinking without the alcohol. Whether you’re taking a break from alcohol, exploring the expansive world of the mocktail, or simply looking for a different kind of night out, Portland’s array of venues specializing in non-alcoholic drinks offers something for everyone.

Abigail Hall

813 SW Alder

Abigail Hall, with its historic charm and modern twist, provides a captivating setting for enjoying non-alcoholic beverages. The bar prides itself on creating mocktails that are every bit as exciting and complex as their alcoholic counterparts.

Bye and Bye

1011 NE Alberta

In the vegan-friendly area of Portland, Bye and Bye stands out for its eclectic range of non-alcoholic drinks. These creative mocktails complement their plant-based menu and offer a refreshing experience.

Blank Slate

7201 NE Glisan

Blank Slate is the ideal choice for those who enjoy a well-made drink. Their non-alcoholic menu includes a variety of mocktails and caffeine-free lattes, all crafted with high-quality ingredients.

Eem

3808 N Williams

This spot is famous for blending Thai flavors with BBQ and doesn’t hold back on its non-alcoholic drink options. Eem’s mocktails are bold and pair perfectly with their spicy dishes, offering a flavorful experience.

Epif

404 NE 28th

Epif offers a unique taste of South American cuisine and complements it with an array of non-alcoholic drink choices. Their mocktails are inspired by traditional South American drinks, providing an authentic taste experience.

Holy Ghost

4101 SE 28th

Holy Ghost is a trendy and modern bar with a dynamic environment, perfect for a non-alcoholic night out. Their visually stunning mocktails are as enjoyable to look at as they are to drink.

Old Gold

2105 N Killingsworth

Known for its cozy ambiance and an excellent selection of beverages, Old Gold offers delightful non-alcoholic options for those looking to enjoy a drink without the buzz. Their mocktails are crafted with the same care as their alcoholic beverages.

Sousol

227 SE 6th

As a speakeasy-style bar, Sousol offers an intimate atmosphere along with its sophisticated non-alcoholic mocktails. It’s an ideal spot for those looking for an upscale experience without alcohol.

The Sudra

28 NE 28th

Epif offers a unique taste of South American cuisine and complements it with an array of non-alcoholic drink choices. Their mocktails are inspired by traditional South American drinks, providing an authentic taste experience.

Conclusion

Portland’s non-alcoholic drink scene mirrors the city’s diverse and inclusive culture, offering something special for everyone. Whether you’re celebrating without alcohol or just exploring new beverage options, these spots ensure your experience is just as festive and enjoyable. Have you visited any of these establishments for a non-alcoholic night out, or do you have a go-to place for mocktails in Portland? Share your thoughts and let’s keep celebrating the vibrant world of non-alcoholic drinks in Portland!

Looking for more best of lists? You can see those HERE

December Events

by Leave a Comment

It’s December which means the holidays are fully upon us! Most of the events happening this month are holiday or light related. We hope you are able to get in the spirit and enjoy many of these events!

Holiday Brew Fest

The Portland Holiday Brew Fest will feature 25+ holiday/winter beers and ciders from around the Northwest

Fremont Holiday Fest

Shop, dine and explore NE Fremont!

  • NE Fremont from 42nd to 50th
  • Free
  • MORE INFO
  • December 1st, 4-7 pm

Scan Fair

ScanFair brings Scandinavia to Portland through traditional food and drink vendors, an entertainment program focused on cultural heritage, games, activities, and crafts

  • Oregon Convention Center
  • pricing varies – TICKETS
  • MORE INFO
  • December 9th and 10th

Holiday Activities

  1. Zoo Lights – Oregon Zoo
  2. Gingerbread Display – Benson Hotel
  3. Festival of Trees – Convention Center
  4. Pittock Mansion Christmas – Pittock Mansion
  5. Holiday Express – Oregon Rail Heritage Center
  6. Winter Wonderland – Portland International Raceway
  7. Christmas Festival of Lights – The Grotto
  8. Silverton Christmas Market – The Oregon Garden
  9. Christmas Ships Parade – Willamette and Columbia Rivers

Holiday Shopping

  1. PDX pop up shops – Downtown
  2. Laurelhurst Winter Bazaar – Laurelhurst School
  3. Crafty Wonderland – Oregon Convention Center
  4. Portland Holiday Market – Veteran Memorial Coliseum
  5. NAYA Native Made Winter Market – Lloyd Center
  6. Portland Bazaar – 1715 NW 17th Ave

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

Enso Winery

by Leave a Comment

In the heart of Portland lies Enso Winery, an urban retreat for wine enthusiasts. This blog post is dedicated to giving you an informative overview of what makes Enso Winery a notable destination in Portland’s vibrant wine scene.

Jessica Berger, Enso Winery
Location and Setting

Enso Winery is situated in Portland’s bustling urban environment, offering a unique contrast to traditional vineyard settings. The winery’s design merges industrial elements with a rustic aesthetic, characterized by exposed brick walls and wooden features, creating an inviting space that caters to both casual visits and more intimate wine tastings.

Wine Selection and Production

At Enso Winery, the focus is on small-batch, artisanal wine production. This approach allows for meticulous attention to detail and quality. The winery sources grapes from the diverse terroirs of the Pacific Northwest, showcasing the region’s potential in every bottle. Visitors can expect a range of reds, whites, and rosés, each with distinct flavor profiles that speak to the winery’s craft and the region’s varied climate and soil.

Staff Expertise

The staff at Enso Winery are not only welcoming but also well-versed in the nuances of their wine selection. They provide insightful information on the winemaking process, grape varieties, and the characteristics of each wine, enriching the tasting experience for both novice and experienced wine drinkers.

Community Engagement

Enso Winery extends beyond just wine tasting; it’s a hub for community events in Portland. The winery frequently hosts events like live music sessions and local art exhibitions, reflecting its commitment to being an integral part of the local cultural scene.

Food Offerings

Understanding the importance of food in enhancing the wine-tasting experience, Enso Winery offers a curated selection of light bites. These offerings are designed to complement the wines, allowing guests to explore how different flavors interact with each other.

Enso Winery represents a unique aspect of Portland’s wine culture. Its urban setting, commitment to small-batch wine production, and role as a community hub make it an essential destination for anyone interested in exploring the depth and breadth of the Pacific Northwest’s wine offerings. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Enso Winery provides an insightful and enjoyable wine experience in the heart of the city.

Family Fun in Portland

by Leave a Comment

Portland, Oregon, is a treasure trove of activities that promise fun for the whole family. This green city delights with its unique blend of interactive learning environments, abundant natural beauty, and urban play areas that are perfect for visitors and residents alike. Let’s dive into some of the best family-friendly activities that Portland has to offer.

Science and Stars: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

Kickstart your Portland adventure at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, affectionately known as OMSI. It’s where science comes alive through engaging exhibits and hands-on experiments that fascinate both the young and the young at heart. From exploring the stars in the planetarium to boarding a real submarine, OMSI provides a full day’s worth of discovery.

Wild Encounters: Oregon Zoo

Nestled within the lush Washington Park, the Oregon Zoo is a window into the world of wildlife, inviting families to come face to face with creatures from around the globe. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education shines through its well-designed habitats and informative presentations. And for a magical evening adventure, don’t miss their dazzling ZooLights display during the holiday season.

Natural Splendor: Parks and Gardens

Washington Park

Washington Park is more than just green space; it’s an outdoor wonderland. With its world-famous International Rose Test Garden, you can stroll amongst colorful blooms and then let the kids loose in one of the park’s playgrounds. Hiking trails wind through the park, offering family-friendly walks with scenic views of the city.

Hoyt Arboretum

A living museum of trees, Hoyt Arboretum’s 12 miles of trails are perfect for families looking to learn about global flora or simply enjoy a peaceful hike. The arboretum offers educational programs for kids, making it a place where nature’s lessons are just waiting to be discovered.

Forest Park

As one of the country’s largest urban forests, Forest Park is a haven for hikers, bird watchers, and nature lovers. Its extensive network of trails, including the family-friendly Lower Macleay Trail, offers an escape into wilderness without ever leaving the city.

Peninsula Park

Peninsula Park is home to Portland’s first public rose garden and a historically designated bandstand, framed by a century-old fountain. Its well-maintained play area and splash pad are hits with the kids during summer months.

Westmoreland Park

A favorite among local families, Westmoreland Park features a duck pond, a large playground, and plenty of open space for picnics and frisbee games. It’s also known for its picturesque setting with mature trees.

Playful Splashes and Urban Escapes

Portland’s summers are perfectly complemented by the city’s interactive fountains and water features. Waterfront Park invites families to enjoy playful splashes with a picturesque view of the Willamette River. For a unique experience, visit Keller Fountain, an architectural marvel where water cascades over terraced stone, creating an urban waterfall playground. Over in the Pearl District, the gently cascading pool at Jamison Square Fountain is a hotspot for families to cool off and relax.

Creative Indoor Play: Play Cafes

When the Pacific Northwest weather turns rainy, Portland’s play cafes offer a warm refuge with a twist. Spaces like Nest, PlayDate PDX, and Rain or Shine Café provide creative and engaging indoor playgrounds that cater to children’s imaginations and offer a comfortable spot for parents to relax with a cup of coffee. These cafes are perfect for play dates, where kids can interact and parents can unwind.

Soaring Views: Portland Aerial Tram

For a bird’s-eye view of the city, take a ride on the Portland Aerial Tram. This unique mode of transportation isn’t just for commuters—it’s a sky-high adventure that kids adore. Soaring above the cityscape and offering panoramic views of Portland’s hills and skyline, it’s a must-do for families looking for a little elevation.

Taste-Testing Adventure: Food Carts

No family trip to Portland would be complete without sampling the city’s famous food carts. These culinary havens offer a taste of the world, with options that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest young eaters. It’s a casual and fun way to enjoy a meal together and experience Portland’s innovative food scene.

Cycle the City: Biking Adventures

With some of the best urban bike paths in the country, Portland is perfect for families who want to explore on two wheels. Safe, designated bike lanes lead you through neighborhoods and along the river, providing a fun and healthy way to see the sights.

Seasonal Fun: Farms and Mazes for Every Season

Portland’s surrounding countryside offers year-round agricultural delights that make for perfect family outings. Each season brings its own unique farm-based activities that are sure to create cherished family memories.

Spring Bloom

In spring, the fields come alive at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn, where the Tulip Festival showcases a vibrant array of flowers. It’s a perfect backdrop for family photos and a great opportunity for kids to learn about different tulip varieties. You can also check out the Peony festival and the many wildflower farms.

Summer Harvest

Summer invites families to berry farms for u-pick adventures. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are ripe for the picking and offer a sweet taste of the region’s bounty. Sauvie Island Farms is a local favorite, with acres of berries and scenic picnic spots.

Autumn Harvest and Mazes

As the leaves begin to turn, pumpkin patches and corn mazes become the go-to. Bauman’s Farm and Garden hosts an annual harvest festival with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and an impressive corn maze that’s fun for all ages.

Winter Greens

Even in winter, there’s farm fun to be had. Many local farms offer holiday-themed activities like wreath-making workshops using fresh evergreens. Tree farms open their fields for families to choose and cut their perfect Christmas tree, complete with hot cocoa and holiday cheer.

Conclusion

Portland’s family activities are as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From educational experiences to outdoor excursions, there’s something here to entertain and inspire every member of the family. For more details and monthly event roundups, be sure to check out our website to help plan your family’s next Portland adventure.