01-16-2008, 07:09 PM
Don't miss the beer! One of the finest places to hit local pubs and breweries and sample their wares. 23rd is a nice street to stroll and pick out a restaurant or two. I do like the Hawthorne district, you can take the train (max). If you pick up the train at the downtown train stop, it is free! The area around Broadway, 3rd ave. downtown has lots of shopping including the Nordstrom Rack (great place to pick up a couple pair of nice shoes). The Pearl district is also downtown and includes Powell's (a must visit). The Pearl has plenty of niche eateries and bars. If you are an adventuresome shopper, you should wander around the warehouse district just across from downtown on the east side (near OMSI). Lots of cool places and interesting finds. If you are staying downtown, I would recommend a visit to the Tugboat brewpub (across from Voodoo doughnuts and around the corner from Mary's (old strip club). The do brew some fine beer, it you like it hoppy. I personally think the old Spanish coffee at Huber's is gross, but the atmosphere there at around 2 or 3 in the morning is definitely cool. This time of year, you will be needing a nice gortex jacket with a hood. Don't pay any attention to the rain, it won't slow you down.
Have a great visit and welcome to the northwest!
Have a great visit and welcome to the northwest!