Start with a pumping ride
Did you know the 2018 Mazda CX-5 won #1 for best SUV in 3 different categories? In addition, they won the best compact SUV for its money. Well, if you ask me, I say I want one. After driving around the new Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring, I had an inside scoop of why it’s got such fame.
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 boasts a large 5-passenger seating capacity with lots of storage space, while driving like a compact car. It simply makes it fun to drive without feeling bulky. It makes driving in the city sleek and easy while being able to tackle those hills, enjoy the sun with the open sky roof, Bose speakers for jamming to your favorite tunes and the latest GPS technology to get you where you need to be.
Grab a pink box at Voodoo Doughnut
Voodoo Doughnut is known to be famous for their unusual take on doughnuts (Homer Simpson would be proud). This establishment that was originally opened in downtown Portland in 2003, has been both a local and tourist favorite.
They take a unique twist by adding oreo crumbles, cap’n crunch cereal and other yummy salty-sweets like bacon on their maple bar. It’s definitely got a handle on things, as its been featured on several tv shows, hundreds of publications and always seems to have a constant line, especially at the downtown Portland location.
See lions, tigers and bears, oh my! at the Oregon Zoo
Come sun, rain, wind or snow, the Oregon Zoo is a must-see when stopping by Portland, especially if you got the family. From bats to elephants, this zoo has a wide selection of animals to keep your day occupied.
This 52 acre zoo is one of the oldest zoos west of the Mississippi. It was founded in 1888, and all began with two bears. Now it is home to nearly 2,000 animals, including 19 endangered species. There is a train that takes visitors around the park to see different types of animals and get an exclusive view that those on foot can’t see.
Check out a Convention
Strap in for a wild journey to places near and far to meet people typical and strange! The Wizard World Comic Con Portland is not a typical gathering of comic or pop culture enthusiasts. Whether you want to meet a celebrity from movies or television, or chat with a comic artist you admire, or even ride a mechanical shark, this con gives the nerd in you anything you could ask for.
The floor of the convention hall is wide and layed out with plenty of celebrity booths, small shops, and even a stage for the occasional rock band show.
Stay at The Nest, Airbnb
The Nest, located in Mt Scott-Arleta neighborhood, is a spacious apartment in a newly constructed foursquare home. There is a large king bed in the bedroom and a pull out couch in the living room. The living room has a large television with cable tv, and lots of items to keep both adults and children happy.
There is toys, kids books, and even a pack and play. The kitchen is fully stocked with lots of appliances from a slow cooker to a full size refrigerator. Some of our favorite nearby amenities is the Mt Scott Park which is home to the community center and indoor pool. We also really enjoyed our breakfast meal at the Arleta Library Bakery Cafe, which is only a short walk away.
Attend the Portland Opera
When you want a concert hall filled with people sharing the love of opera you can’t get much better than the opening night for the Portland Opera. It all begins with a fabulous red carpet presentation complete with spotlights in the sky.
The concert itself is a great combination of presentation, spectacle, and great substance. The arias presented are some of the best in history, with selections from Rossini, Verdi, and even Mozart. What a fantastic way to kick off the season of music monumental.
Enjoy some Portland Cider
Nothing gets better than hitting the bar after a long day of sightseeing, but hitting that local cider joint really hits the spot. Portland Cider has two locations, one in Portland and the other in Clackamas. They have all of their seasonal and regular cider on tap and have an outstanding selection.
They also have other local ciders for those who want to mix it up. I appreciate companies who go out of their way to support not only their competitors, but other local organizations. Both locations offer a food menu, however, the Clackamas location does have a much more extensive menu.
Last but not least, visit Powell’s Books
I have no doubt you’ve been to Powell’s city of books during your visit to Portland, but if you haven’t you’re in for a treat! Powell’s is a multi-story book store that has everything you could want and more. It’s so big, they offer you a map to find your way.