The Rose City

We truly enjoyed our 3 days in Portland! What a vibrant city!

Day one, we took a walking tour of downtown, and waited in line with tourists and locals to buy an exotic  VooDoo Donut, a Portland landmark. I tried their infamous Bacon Maple, and Grandpa got a Dirty Old Bastard, covered with fudge, peanut butter and Oreo pieces!

We ate lunch at one of the many food trucks (street vendors) found at several locations around the city. Then we followed the Pink Tour Trolley, and went up to and through Washington Park, which includes the Rose Test Gardens, Zoo, and a Children’s Museum, among many acres of hilltop parkland.

The second day we went shopping at Costco, which is very like Sam’s Club and BJ’s. Along the way, we saw more of the city. Our campground is located in the NE, along the Columbia River, which is dotted with Marinas and “floating homes”, boat houses with living spaces and tiny front porches decorated with potted plants, very charming. Near our campground is the airport, with this marvelous view.

The third day we toured the SE section of the city, including Mt Tabor Park and the

Ladd Circle

area. One can actually feel the positive energy of the city here! Upbeat city streets with shops and restaurants, neighborhoods of well kept homes with pretty gardens in front, and traffic circle parks filled with….what else but roses?

I also had an opportunity to meet some Portland friends I had made online. Again, a room full of positive energy!

Today, onward to Silverton to visit with Grandpa’s brother and family.