Thoughts on Portland, Day 3

• Portland certainly deserves its reputation as one of the most walkable cities in the world. From getting off the Max train after the airport to when we were ready to leave, we only walked places.
• This is also a testament to Portland’s diversity. We never felt the need to leave the downtown (and its immediate) area, as there was plenty to do. Unfortunately, that means we didn’t make it back to the neighborhood we visited before. Should I return anytime soon, the goal will be to make a couple short trips to these areas.
• The Saturday Market is an impressive array of food, crafts and art that’s worth a walk-through. (And we got interviewed by Marketplace while we there.) Turns out the market is where everyone brings their dogs.
• A walking tour is great way to see a city. Portland Walking Tours and our enthusiastic guide, Amanda, made for an excellent two-hour tour.
• The history of the city is pretty exciting. From many cultures that have passed through to the possibility of being “shanghaied,” there’s some fascinating stuff here.
• Should you ever find yourself in the are for more than a couple days, spending some time at the McMenanmin’s Kennedy School is an absolute must. This 1914(?) schoolhouse has been reclaimed and features a hotel, three or four bars, a full-service restaurant, a movie theater featuring table service and lounge seating, and many other random amenities worth exploring. This is one of the most unique experiences I’ve had, and I hope to visit some of their other properties at some point.