Portland Trip Part 2: Attractions

Besides great food, Portland has many beautiful places for tourists, especially first time visitors. One of my favorites was the Saturday Market. Regardless of its name, Saturday market opens on both Saturday and Sunday. It is an art and craft fair where you can find a lot of handmade art and crafts from local artists.



Portland Aerial Tram wasn't really a tourist attraction (at least not yet) because there was nothing around but office building and a hospital/medical school. So if you came here, don't expect to see any shopping plaza, restaurants or shops nearby. For what I saw, the tram served more as a local transportation uphill and downhill for the people who work in the hospital and the office building.




The only thing to see was the scenic view when took the tram ride up the hill. The ride only took about five minutes. We ended up wandering around the patio area in the medical school, which was quite a nice view. The weather in Portland can be tricky. One minute it can be pouring, and then becomes sunny all of a sudden. So bring an umbrella and rain coat when you are out.



My other favorite place in Portland was the Japanese Garden, located in the Washington Park. We chose to come here on a weekday to avoid the crowd. After we got off the bus #63, there was a short walk uphill or take their free shuttle, if you prefer, to the main entrance of the garden. The admission was $9.50 per person.




I love this garden and I think it is way better than the one in Golden Gate Park. This Japanese Garden is beautifully designed and it has tons of plants to see, and yet the place is not too big that can worn you out. I appreciate their rule of prohibit the use of cell phone in the garden. So everyone can enjoy this beautiful environment peacefully and quietly.





Portland was a great option for a short weekend getaway. If we could find any cheap tickets again, I will definitely visit this lovely little city again.