Articles Tagged "Portland Neighborhoods"

Portland is a place with a truly unique culture. When you want to see the full breadth of all Portland has to offer, our brokers can recommend one attraction: The Portland Saturday Market.

Several Portland homes for sale are within just a short drive of the Portland Saturday Market, which sets up every Saturday between March and December at the beautiful Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This open-air bazaar has been attracting local vendors and guests since all the way back in 1974.

Let's take a closer look at everything this local market has to offer and what you can expect during your visit.

What Is the Portland Saturday Market?

The Portland Saturday Market is a combination of many of the things that make Portland great. It might look like an art show or an open-air concert at times. 

The Saturday Market runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday from March through December. In addition to art, crafts, and gorgeous jewelry, you'll also find food trucks and vendors with diverse, delicious treats to share. There's often live music, and well-behaved leashed dogs are allowed.

Although the Portland Saturday Market closes promptly at 5 p.m., that doesn't mean you'll be out of luck if you want something to do. The Market is convenient to a variety of galleries, restaurants, and breweries. Whether you're after locally made goods, cuisine, or fun with friends, it's all right here for you.

How Do I Get to the Portland Saturday Market?

The Portland Saturday Market sets up at 2 Southwest Naito Parkway, which is next to the Burnside Bridge across the Willamette River. If you're staying downtown, you have many options to get there fast: Walking, cycling, or using a scooter, which are widely available.

From elsewhere in the city, public transit may be your best bet for enjoying the market. The MAX Light Rail lets out at the Skidmore Foundation station, which leaves you only minutes away from the action. 

For those who drive, be aware that metered parking is available but it fills up fast!

How Much Does It Cost to Go to the Portland Saturday Market?

Good news! The Portland Saturday Market is a free attraction. You can visit for as long as you like at any time that works for you, coming and going as you please. If you drive, you should be prepared to pay for metered parking for the duration of your stay. And, of course, you might want to bring a souvenir home from the fantastic vendors at the market!

Where Can I See a List of Vendors for the Portland Saturday Market?

The Portland Saturday Market maintains a list of current vendors on its official website.

Some of the top categories for vendors include accessories, children's clothing and toys, apparel, health and wellness, skincare, jewelry, home decor, pet goods, and packaged foods. Local producers offer all manner of coffees, teas, spices, candy, snacks, and baked goods you can enjoy right away or at home.

Skincare and wellness are ubiquitous in the Portland Saturday Market. Handmade soaps, perfumes, and aromatherapy products made with essential oils are all very popular. 

Be sure to check out the list of vendors before you stop by, the list is always changing and is a good way to scope out what you can buy from local makers and vendors. 

Portland Saturday Market Dates

The 2023 season has started! The Portland Saturday Market welcomes you each and every Saturday from March through December 24. That means you've only missed two Saturdays so far and can get started right away! The next date for the Portland Saturday Market is Saturday, March 18. There are more than 36 Saturdays left in the season. That might be enough to see everything, but we make no promises!

When you live in the Portland area, every weekend is an opportunity to stop by this local market. Contact us to discover more about Portland real estate.

Dinner on a rooftop – what could be better than that? Especially if you recently purchased a home in Portland, eating at a rooftop restaurant is a fun opportunity to look at the city and get your bearings. You'll see natural parks, residential neighborhoods, and majestic Mount Hood in the distance. Here are some of the best rooftop bars and restaurants our brokers recommend visiting in the Portland area.

• Noble Rot: 1111 East Burnside St., Portland, OR 97214
  Noble Rot opened in 2002 and quickly became a Portland staple for fresh, seasonal cuisine. Their rooftop is a real garden where they grow a wide array of veggies. In the winter, you'll see endive, kale, and arugula. In the summer, the garden is bursting with tomatoes and peppers. Guests are welcome to visit the garden, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy views of the city below before tucking into a delicious meal.
  
  Guests love the Grilled Pork Shoulder, which comes with golden beets, cabbage, and cranberries. A slice of the olive oil cake, topped with lemon curd and Chantilly cream, brings any meal to a delicious end.
  
  
• Radio Room: 1101 NE Alberta St., Portland, OR 97211
  Radio Room is a neighborhood restaurant and bar with an adults-only rooftop bar. The rooftop overlooks the city's arts district, which makes for some lovely views. Take time to admire the building itself, too. It dates back to the 1940s and has been beautifully restored in the Art Deco style.
  
  Radio Room serves brunch every day until 3 pm. Favorites include the Avocado Toast and the Florentine Benedict. They also have a great happy hour with specials like $1 off draft beers and $2 off select cocktails. 
  
  
• Laurelwood Brewing Co: 5115 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland, OH 97213
  If you're in the mood for a beer after looking at Portland homes for sale, then Laurelwood Brewing Co is the place to go. The rooftop patio is open and sunny, with plenty of space for friends. 
  
  Laurelwood Brewing Co crafts a lot of creative beers, such as their Fresh Hop Mosaic Ale, made with flaked barley and Munich malt. Their menu features dishes that pair well with their beers. Try the French Dip with a stout or a Rueben with an IPA.
  
  
• Xport Bar & Lounge: 1355 SW 2nd Ave., Portland, OR 97201
  Xport Bar & Lounge is one of the most popular rooftop lounges in downtown Portland. It has a modern, European vibe and a delightful menu of exotic fusion dishes. You'll want to make a reservation for dinner, especially on the weekends.
  
  Start your evening with an appetizer to share. The Garlic Truffle Fries are incredible, as are the Maple Glazed Brussel Sprouts. When it comes to entrees, you can't go wrong with the Porter Burger. Pair it with a hand-crafted cocktail, and you're in for a treat.
  
  
• 10 Barrel Brewing: 1411 NW Flanders St., Portland, OR 97209
  If you're seeking a more casual atmosphere, 10 Barrel Brewing is a great place to go. They have a rooftop party bar that's always bustling with friendly guests and great music. If you like hoppy beers, you're in luck. Space Ghost is a hybrid IPA with tropical notes, and Farewell IPA features passionfruit and mango.
  
  The food at 10 Barrel Brewing receives rave reviews. The pizzas are made in a real, wood-fired oven. For something lighter, try the Rockfish, caught off the Oregon coast and served on a bed of black lentils. 
  
  
• Metropolitan Tavern: 1021 NE Grand Ave., #600, Portland, OR 97232
  Metropolitan Tavern would be the perfect spot for date night or a weekend dinner with friends. They serve delicious cocktails and contemporary cuisine on their rooftop deck and in their indoor dining room. They're known for their small plates, which include Carnitas Tacos, Fried Calamari, and Tuna Poke. 
  
  Metropolitan Tavern also serves artisan pizzas, including the Herbivore Pizza topped with pesto, mushrooms, olives, peppers, artichokes, and spinach. For a special occasion, try the Filet Mignon, a classic served with compound butter, mashed potatoes, and grilled broccolini. A handcrafted Pisco Sour or Manhattan will complete your meal perfectly.
  
  

If you're new to the Portland area and still looking for a place to call home, contact us. Our friendly agents will be happy to help you navigate the real estate market and make an offer on the perfect place. 

Our brokers want to help you celebrate Valentine's Day in style, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to do just that here in Portland. Portland homes for sale are in the midst of natural Pacific Northwest splendor that will only make a flower bouquet even more gorgeous and romantic. Portland is in full bloom with local florists who'll be glad to create something amazing for you.

Let's stop and smell the roses (and all the other flowers) with a few of your Portland florist options:

• Sellwood Flower Co. – 8215 Southeast 13th Avenue, Portland, OR, 97202
  Sellwood Flower Co. is a local florist you can really trust with all of your needs. Recognized as a local "Premier Florist" here in Portland, it offers bouquets, specialty arrangements for Valentine's Day, and even wine and gift selections. Unexpected gift arrangements come with thoughtful perks, such as a tin of high-quality tea for the "Tea Lover" selection. There are great holiday centerpieces, too.
  
  
• Sammy's Flowers – 1710 West Burnside Street, Portland, OR 97209
  Sammy's Flowers is a wonderful one-stop shop for your gift-giving needs. Not only can you get a hand-crafted floral arrangement for any occasion, but there are also plants, candies, chocolates, and cards. The "Surprise Me" bouquets let the experienced florists at Sammy's maximize their creativity based on themes like "Winter," "Pinks and Peaches," "Jewel Tones," "Cheerful," and much more.
  
  
• Goose Hollow Flowers – 1219 Southwest 19th Avenue, Portland, OR 9720
  Goose Hollow Flowers is a woman-owned small business that specializes in beautiful flowers and plants from right in the local area. Found in a prime location in the Goose Hollow neighborhood, it prides itself on friendly service, fast delivery, and fresh flowers. You can even rent greenery for your event through Goose Hollow – the team will work with local growers to get everything you need for your big day.
  
  
• Lubliner Florist – 1300 Southwest 5th Avenue, Suite 100, Portland, OR, 97201
  Lubliner Florist is a fine selection of flowers that's open every day of the week, so you can always pick something up, even if it's an emergency. In addition to a complete selection of bouquets for all kinds of events, you can get a consultation from a Lubliner Florist team member at your home for customized plants and floral arrangements. Local businesses love the company's commercial services, too.
  
  
• Grand Avenue Florist - 909 Southeast Yamhill, Portland, OR 97214
  Offering delivery 5 days a week to the Portland/Vancouver metro area, Grand Avenue Florist is a family-owned shop ready to help with your next floral arrangement. Shop their selection of Valentine's Day flowers. Or opt for something more year-round for your valentine and gift a floral subscription that will delight them throughout the year! 
  
  
• Kern Park Flower Shoppe - 6713 Southeast Holgate Boulevard, Portland, OR 97206
  Kern Park Flower Shoppe has delighted Portland locals with fantastic bouquets and floral arrangements since 1915. Over the years, they have won multiple awards for their top-notch design team. Their team creates arrangements based on the occasion, or you can create a custom arrangement based on their availability. 
  
  
• Starflower – 3564 Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard, Portland, OR 97214
  Starflower is best known for floral services for weddings. Still, there's a lot more going on at this award-winning local florist than might be obvious at first. It stands out for its monthly flower subscription; you receive seasonal flowers on a regular basis, delivered or held for you at the shop. Your deliveries can be as frequent as once a week or as infrequent as once a month. Candles, lotions, and other gifts are on hand, too.
  
  
• Geranium Lake Flowers – 555 Southwest Oak Street, Portland, OR 97204
  Geranium Lake Flowers is a top Portland floral studio. Billing itself as the city's premier florist, it specializes in flowers for events. You'll receive not just one bouquet but floral arrangements and centerpieces throughout the space. Geranium Lake Flowers also has its own 5,000-square-foot venue available for special events.

Contact us to discover more about Portland real estate opportunities.

The Pacific Northwest is the hub for the gourmet coffee craze. Where better than Portland to observe National Coffee Break Day on Friday, January 20? Celebrate with a beverage from one of these top coffee shops near Portland homes for sale.

• Case Study Coffee Roasters - 5347 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland, OR 97213
  The brew at Case Study Coffee Roasters will bring you in, while the cozy interior will entice you to stay. Comfortable chairs, clean lines, and plenty of lighting create an ambiance that's perfect for working on your laptop or reading a good book. Punch up your beverage with one of the homemade syrups. Hazelnut is a particular favorite among customers. Follow them on Facebook for information about art exhibits and live music. Case Study is open daily from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  
  
• Roseline Coffee - 1015 SE 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97214
  The name Roseline Coffee holds a two-fold meaning. In addition to referencing Portland's status as Rose City, the name pays tribute to the foam "rosetta" that's characteristic of barista art. With notes such as white peach, lilac, red apple, and kumquat, Roseline's coffee smells as wonderful as it tastes. Their roasts have become so well-known that they're being sourced by coffee shops as far away as Colorado. Hours are 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., seven days a week.
  
  
• Stumptown Coffee - 128 SW 3rd Ave., Portland, OR 97204
  Started in 1999, Stumptown Coffee is so iconic that they have their own Wikipedia entry. Founder Duane Sorenson is considered one of the pioneers of coffee's "third wave," which refers to high-quality beans featuring distinctive flavors. Sorenson also developed a reputation as a staunch supporter of independent coffee farmers, often paying well above market price for beans in recognition of their labor. Stumptown supports local artisans with a rotating gallery of art shows. Hours are 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. on weekends.
  
  
• Tov Coffee - 3207 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214
  Customers often do a double-take when they first spot Tov Coffee, which is housed in a bright red English double-decker bus. The "building" sets the charmingly quirky tone for the cafe, which specializes in Egyptian and Turkish coffee drinks. Owner Joseph Nazir, a native of Egypt, christened his shop with the Egyptian word for "perfect." Their signature Mint Thing, consisting of cold brew coffee and fresh mint syrup topped with half-and-half or chocolate milk, is such a hit that it's now canned and sold in various retail outlets. Hours are 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday, and 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
  
  
• Barista - 539 NW 13th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  While the names of most coffee shops highlight java, the owners of Barista chose to honor the friendly and knowledgeable staff members who skillfully pour the drinks. As a three-time winner of the Northwest Barista Competition, owner Billy Wilson is himself a rockstar barista. Rather than focus on a single brand of coffee, Barista sources from nearly a dozen major roasters around the country, including San Francisco's Sightglass. Refine your own barista skills by taking home a bag of beans from one of the featured roasters. Barista is open weekdays from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. and weekends from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  
  
• Broobee Café - 433 NW 10th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  The future of coffee is here now at Broobee Café. Staff member Billie is a robotic "barista" who would be right at home in Star Wars' classic cantina. If you're lucky, you may catch Billie in the middle of a dance. Drinks are brewed to order using the finest quality Arabica beans. Pastries are supplied by Alex Wilson of The Hungry Hero Dessert Café, winner of Sugar Rush, a dessert competition on Netflix. Broobee Café is open 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily except Monday when closing time is 2 p.m.
  
  
• Oracle Coffee Company - 3875 SW Bond Ave., Portland, OR 97239
  Vegans need coffee too, as demonstrated by the success of Oracle Coffee Company. In addition to a rotating selection of coffees from roasters around the country, Oracle offers a number of plant-based pastry and milk options. Andy Hurley, the drummer of the emo-punk band Fall Out Boy, is one of Oracle's co-founders, adding to the shop's hipster cred. Hours are 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., seven days a week.

Portland manages to be a trendsetter while maintaining a relaxed, laid-back vibe. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for cheerful and experienced assistance from our brokers with all your real estate needs.

Ready to bid 2022 a fond farewell as you usher in a bright and shining 2023? Join our brokers in celebrating New Year's Eve at one of these entertaining bashes near Portland homes for sale.

• New Year's Eve Cruise - Portland Spirit, 1010 SW Naito Pkwy., Portland, OR 97204
  Board the Portland Spirit for their festive New Year's Eve Cruise. Dance to live music from the Bylines while you enjoy hors d'oeuvres and a midnight champagne toast. There will also be a bistro menu and two full-service bars to purchase additional food and drinks. Set sail at 10 p.m. on Saturday, December 31. This event is for ages 21 and over, and tickets are $120.
  
  
• Champagne Ball - Portland Art Museum, 1219 SW Park Ave., Portland, OR 97205
  Portland's popular Champagne Ball is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a move to the spectacular Portland Art Museum. With 14 bars, an hors d'oeuvres buffet, live music, and two DJs, it will take two spacious ballrooms to accommodate all the fun. Commemorate the evening with an alpaca selfie at the CB Photo Booth. The 21-and-over event kicks off at 8 p.m. on Saturday, December 31. Tickets start at $139, with Gold and Platinum reserved tables available.
  
  
• Pink Martini New Year's Eve Celebration - Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205
  Returning for their first-holiday appearance in four years, local legend Pink Martini, the self-described "little orchestra," is sure to put on a memorable show. Several special guests, including the Portland Youth Philharmonic, will also appear on stage for their New Year's Eve Celebration. The headliner group features a dozen musicians performing an eclectic mix of classical, jazz, and pop that appeals to a broad spectrum of listeners. There will be two shows at 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 31. Tickets range from $34-$115.
  
  
• Brandi Carlile New Year's Eve Party - Moda Center, 1 N. Center Court St., Portland, OR 97227
  Music fans in the Pacific Northwest have known about Brandi Carlile for years. The talented singer-songwriter gained national acclaim when she became the most-nominated woman at the 2018 Grammys. Brandi returns to the PNW for a highly-anticipated New Year's Eve show. Expect to hear songs from the Grammy-winning By the Way, I Forgive You as well as Brandi's most recent album, In the Canyon Haze. Showtime is 9 p.m. on Saturday, December 31. Tickets start at $36.
  
  
• Battle of the Decades - Mississippi Studios, 3939 N. Mississippi Ave., Portland, OR 97227
  Is '80s New Wave music your jam? Maybe you groove to classic rock from the '60s. A star-studded lineup of Portland's top musicians will conduct a Battle of the Decades to celebrate music throughout the years. Represent your choice by dressing in decade-appropriate attire. There will be a champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. Doors open at 7:30 on Saturday, December 31, with festivities beginning at 8:30. Tickets for the 21-and-over event are $40.
  
  
• Pier Pressure New Year's Eve Party Cruise - Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler, 110 SE Caruthers St., Portland, OR 97214
  Travel back in time to the freewheeling 1920s aboard the Pier Pressure New Year's Eve Party Cruise. The Prohibition-themed 2.5-hour cruise along the scenic Columbia River is perfect for a romantic date night or a lively outing with friends. A DJ will keep the energy high-level with a soundtrack of Top 40 tunes. Admission to the 21-and-over event includes three pre-paid drinks, hand-passed appetizers, Roaring 20s-style party favors, and cabaret hats. Check-in begins at 9 p.m. for a 10 p.m. departure. Tickets range from $119-$219.

Do your New Year's resolutions include buying or selling a home in Portland? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for all your real estate needs.

Thanks to convenient walkability and a charmingly quirky vibe, the Hawthorne District adds an extra special touch to Portland homes for sale. Our brokers love to spend a day shopping until they drop at these incredible stores and restaurants in the Hawthorne District. 

• House of Vintage PDX - 3315 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214
  Everything old is new again at House of Vintage PDX. With more than 60 vendors in a spacious 13,000-square-foot building, there are wonderful discoveries to be made every day. Their specialty is vintage clothing from the 1920s to the 2000s, but you can also find furniture, home decor and accessories, collectibles, and pop culture items. Grab a bite to eat at Neza, a great food truck right down the alley featuring Mexican street food. House of Vintage is open daily from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  
  
• Powell's Books on Hawthorne - 3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214
  As an offshoot of downtown Portland's iconic City of Books, Powell's Books on Hawthorne has a serious pedigree. Despite their "little sister" status, the shop covers an impressive 10,000 square feet and holds upwards of 200,000 new and used books. Sell your used books onsite for store credit or online for PayPal or store credit. Hours are 10 a.m. -  9 p.m. daily. Used books buying hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
  
  
• Communion - 3556 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214
  True to its name, Communion opened in 2012 with the goal of creating a space for sharing and community participation. The shop offers quality clothing and accessories for men and women at affordable prices. Marcy, the owner, searches labels around the world to stay up-to-date with the latest trends. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, or shop their online store 24/7 for store pickup.
  
  
• Tender Loving Empire - 3541 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214
  Tender Loving Empire defies easy description. Carrie Brownstein, PNW musician and star of Portlandia, may have come closest when she referred to it as a "dream boutique." TLE seeks to nurture and support local artists in all fields. In addition to being an independent record label, TLE is a gift shop featuring an eclectic assortment of handmade goods, from clothing and accessories to games and pet products. Can't decide? Eliminate the guesswork with more than a dozen curated gift boxes built around a specific theme, such as "Phenomenal Foodie" and "Just Kid-ding Around." TLE is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  
  
• The Perfume House - 3328 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214
  According to the late Chris Tsefalas, co-founder of The Perfume House with his wife Christina, their shop is more properly regarded as "a library or museum of fragrances." While most stores are busy promoting the latest celebrity scent, The Perfume House is dedicated to helping customers discover the fragrance best suited to their personality and preferences. Choose from an astounding 1,500 scents in various families and notes from houses such as Cartier, Jean Patou, and Van Cleef & Arpels. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, by appointment only.
  
  
• Waffle Window - 3610 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214
  What's not to love about waffles? They can be sweet or savory, and Waffle Window has an amazing assortment to satisfy any taste. Customer favorites include classic chicken and waffles and luscious cheesecake waffles with your choice of strawberries, blueberry cinnamon compote, or pineapple. Farm Fusion is a vegetarian delight with mushrooms, red peppers, spinach, chevre, tomatoes, and chives. Place your order at the window to enjoy on the go or at one of their picnic tables. Indoor seating is available at the adjacent Bread & Ink Café. Hours are 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily except Monday when the window closes at 3 p.m.
  
  
• Apizza Scholls - 4741 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97215
  Looking for a place to eat that the whole family can agree on? The pies from Apizza Scholls are regarded by many to be the best in Portland. National acclaim grew last year when Nathan Myhrvold, a renowned expert on modernist cuisine, cited Apizza Scholls in his comprehensive cookbook Modernist Pizza. Traditional Neapolitan-style crust is topped with house combos such as Amatriciana, featuring whole-milk mozzarella, grana Padano, house-cured bacon, red onions, and tomato sauce with chili flakes, garlic, and herbs. Create your own combo, or order your pie half-and-half for added variety. Kids can entertain themselves with the classic arcade games while you wait. Apizza Scholls is open daily from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Discover everything that makes Portland such a great place to call home. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more.

During the holidays, Portland's already stunning surroundings become even more spectacular with the addition of lights. Take in the joy of the season when you tour these holiday light displays around Portland homes for sale.

• Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony - Pioneer Courthouse Square, 701 SW 6th Ave., Portland, OR 97205
  Kick off the holidays with a festive gathering in "Portland's Living Room." Pioneer Courthouse Square is the site of the city's 38th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Thomas Lauderdale, founder of Portland's own Pink Martini, will lead musicians, chorale singers, and audience members in a joyful sing-along. Afterward, Santa Claus himself will flip the "on" switch to turn on more than 14,000 colorful LED lights adorning a 75-foot Douglas fir. The event is set for 6 p.m. on Friday, November 25, and admission is free.
  
  
• Peacock Lane - SE Peacock Ln., Portland, OR 97214
  An annual event since 1932, Peacock Lane transforms each holiday season thanks to clever light displays put on by local residents. Located in Southeast Portland, Peacock Lane is known for Tudor-style homes and as Portland's Christmas Street. For 2022, lights will be displayed starting December 15 and be available to view until December 31. Explore the neighborhood on foot when you attend one of their car-free nights on December 15, 16, or 17.
  
  
• ZooLights - Oregon Zoo, 4001 SW Canyon Rd., Portland, OR 97221
  The grounds of the Oregon Zoo become even more impressive when they're bedecked with 1.5 million lights. ZooLights, one of the more popular holiday traditions in PDX, features a walk-through light display of just over one mile. Drive-through viewing is also offered on select evenings. Some of Portland's favorite food trucks will be on hand, while other refreshments available include elephant ears, hot cocoa, and Oregon beer and wine. Leave the kids at home for a date night at BrewLights on November 18 and 19. Activities include beer and cider tastings and dancing to live music. ZooLights runs from November 23 - January 5. Timed-entry tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit the website for hours and prices. 
  
  
• Winter Wonderland - Portland International Raceway, 1940 N Victory Blvd., Portland, OR 97217
  Portland International Raceway is usually a whirlwind of activity, but it takes on a whole different aura when it's transformed into a Winter Wonderland. For the 29th year, the raceway is the home of the "Largest Holiday Light Show West of the Mississippi." Circle the track in the comfort of your own car and marvel at the sight of more than 250 light set pieces and animated displays. All proceeds benefit Sunshine Division, an organization that provides food and clothing to Portland families in need. Winter Wonderland takes place from November 25 - December 31. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4:30 p.m. - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with expanded hours the week of December 16. Visit the website for prices.
  
  
• Christmas Ships Parade
  In 1954, the Christmas Ships Parade was actually singular, with one lone sailboat from the Portland Yacht Club traveling the rivers. Today, the Columbia and Willamette River fleets average 55 to 60 boats. Thousands of visitors line the shores of the rivers to thrill at the sight of the colorful ships passing by. While many of the participating boats are regulars, new ones join every year, so there's always something different to see. Visit the website for the full schedule on both rivers, which includes meet and greet events on the weekend of December 17.

Portland is a great area to call home in any season, with plenty of local events throughout the year. Looking for a new home that puts you close to all your favorite local venues and events?

Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more from our brokers and let us help you find a home for the holidays. 

Our brokers know that Portland is truly unique. There's more to this quirky and colorful city than you can possibly see in one visit. But if you're here to explore Portland homes for sale, one brilliant way to get acquainted is to start digging into the delectable dining scene.

It wasn't that long ago when vegan-friendly restaurants were tough to come by, and those actually specializing in vegan cuisine were all but unheard of. Portland was one of the very first places in the United States to host a true variety of vegan restaurants, and it continues to be a pioneer today.

There's a little bit of everything to be found in Portland's vegan roster, and it certainly doesn't stop with those mainstay salads and wraps. In fact, you'll find international and fusion cuisine that embraces just about every culinary tradition under the sun ... and some you won't find anywhere else.

Let's dive in and get familiar with just a handful of Portland's vegan restaurants:

• Mis Tacones – 1670 Northeast Killingsworth Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Mis Tacones is a strikingly unusual and much-loved concept here in Portland: A 100% vegan taqueria where the menu is bursting with tacos, tortas, nachos, and burritos you'll love. Juicy seitan is a frequent star within the different dishes. The Baja California taco trio, featuring cilantro lime, faux al pastor, and asada, is perhaps the best meal to start with for a first visit.
  
  
• Kate's Ice Cream – 3713 North Mississippi Avenue, Portland, OR 97227
  Kate's Ice Cream is among the originals in a small yet growing number of vegan scoop shops. Basing its confections on organic coconut cream and cashew milk, it centers a delightful experience that's truly distinct from dairy ice cream without losing any of the flavor or enjoyment. The sunny, pastel shop environment adds another touch of childlike wonder to this fun and rollicking endeavor.
  
  
• Dirty Lettuce – 4727 Northeast Fremont Street, Portland, OR 97213
  Don't let the name fool you: Dirty Lettuce is the place to find some of the freshest and most innovative vegan fare anywhere in Oregon. Originally from Mississippi, the head chef had a vision to deliver fully vegan Southern comfort food to the people of the Pacific Northwest. The idea caught on, and now its regular patrons visit seasonally to check out the ever-rotating list of vegan sides and desserts.
  
  
• Ben & Esther's – 6912 Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Portland, OR 97213
  Ben & Esther's is a place to find deli favorites reimagined with no animal ingredients. You'll see it all, from matzoh ball soup to bagel with schmear. Looking for the ideal introduction to Ben & Esther's? You may wish to try the sea salt-roasted carrot lox bagel with coconut-based cream cheese along with tangy dill and capers.
  
  
• Doe Donuts – 4110 Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Portland, OR 97212
  Just because you're a vegan, it doesn't mean you have to pass up all the delicious treats that others get to savor. Doe Donuts is a case in point: It has made a name for itself as the only dedicated vegan donut shop in Portland – but it's so popular it may see competition sooner than later! Creative flavors such as "zucchini chocolate chip" headline this vegan bakery, which also has its own attached ice cream shop.
  
  
• Boxcar Pizza – 2701 Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Portland, OR 97232
  Whether you're a vegan, a vegetarian, or an omnivore, just about everyone loves pizza. Boxcar Pizza offers a fresh take on the iconic Detroit-style pizza. Serving up robust pies with a wide range of fresh local ingredients, Boxcar might be most famous for coconut-based "mozzarella" that will give the original version a run for its money. Look out for limited-time specials like vegan mac n' cheese pie.
  
  
• Epif – 404 Northeast 28th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232
  Epif is bringing a vegan-friendly style to South American cuisine, which has often highlighted seafood and meat in the past. Stuffed sweet peppers, homemade green salsa, vegan quiche, and fried pumpkin bread are just a few tantalizing options. Plus, you will get to appreciate Portland's beauty and fresh air through Epif's outdoor dining pod concept. It's an outstanding choice for a vegan dinner date.
  
  
• The Sudra – 28 Northeast 28th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232
  Look into Indian food in Portland, and you are bound to hear about The Sudra. Vegan Indian food meets Southwestern flair in this utterly unique Portland institution. Head chef Sanjay Chandrasekaran picked up much of his early industry experience in New Mexico and now incorporates that rich past in the form of loving homages that take traditional Indian flavors to unexpected heights. It's not to be missed here in Portland!

Contact us today to discover more of picturesque Portland's unique charm.

When you're ready to enjoy some outdoor fall fun near Portland, it's hard to find a better place than Sauvie Island to spend a day. With a unique collection of farms, trails, parks, and natural areas, Sauvie Island is an outdoor lover's dream. Fall is a great time to visit some of the farms on Sauvie Island with the family, enjoy fun, seasonal activities for all ages, and explore the great outdoors. Our brokers have all of the details on some of the best Sauvie Island fall activities for you to enjoy this year.

• Visit the Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island – 16511 NW Gillihan Rd., Portland, OR 97231
  A long-time favorite for families near Portland homes for sale, the Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island is gearing up for a busy fall packed with fun activities. Visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the Animal Barn, sampling fresh, delicious meals at the Patio Cafe, and shopping for souvenirs at the Pumpkin Cottage Gift Shop. The Maize, a large, winding corn maze, is a highlight of any visit. There are free hayrides to the U-Pick Pumpkin Patch starting in October, and you can even enjoy a professional pumpkin carving demonstration at the farm on October 14, 2022.
  
  
• Celebrate the Harvest at Topaz Farm – 17100 NW Sauvie Island Rd., Portland, OR 97231
  The fall harvest season is the perfect time to plan a visit to the scenic Topaz Farm and pick out the perfect pumpkin for Halloween. There are two corn mazes to be explored here, one smaller maze geared toward younger visitors and the full-size maze for all ages. You can also sample some sensational seasonal drinks, including the famous Topaz Farm Pumpkin Cider. After you've enjoyed the refreshments and navigated the maze, take a hayride out to the pumpkin patch to choose from thousands of pumpkins in the fields.
  
  
• Farm to Plate Feasts at Topaz Farm – 17100 NW Sauvie Island Rd., Portland, OR 97231
  Looking for a fun Sauvie Island date night this fall? In addition to all of the activities for families, Topaz Farm also hosts a series of Farm to Plate dinners highlighted by seasonal ingredients and unique pairings. Be sure to check out their website to see their calendar and the latest seasonal dinners. 
  
  
• Hike to Warrior Rock Lighthouse – Northeastern Sauvie Island on Columbia River
  There are many trails to traverse around Sauvie Island, and the trail to Warrior Rock Lighthouse is a great choice if you want to pair your outdoor adventure with some local history. The three-mile trail to the lighthouse can be picked up at the north end of Reeder Road and will lead you to the lighthouse, which was first constructed in 1889. While the modern lighthouse works on an automated system, the grounds around the lighthouse are open to the public.
  
  
• Explore Howell Territorial Park – 13901 NW Howell Park Blvd., Portland, OR 97231
  Take a trip back in time when you visit the historic Howell Territorial Park, which features 120 acres of serene farmland, wetlands, wildlife, and historic sites for you to explore. Visit the beautifully restored 1850s-era farmhouse, take a walk out to the wetlands to do some bird watching, or settle in for a picnic while taking in all of the fall foliage around the farms.
  
  
• Bird Watching at Wapato Access Greenway State Park – 18846 NW Sauvie Island Rd., Portland, OR 97231
  Whether you're in the mood for a quick hike or a full day of bird watching, try a trip to the 170-acre Wapato Access Greenway State Park. The park features a 2-mile loop trail that will take you around Virginia Lake. This seasonal lake is the real highlight of the park for bird watchers because it's home to a vibrant, diverse collection of species to spot during the fall and winter.

Searching for a home close to all of the amazing outdoor attractions around Portland? Let our local team help you find the perfect match. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Portland, OR area.

Last year, personal finance website WalletHub awarded Portland the title of America's top foodie city. This comes as no surprise to our brokers, who love to explore Portland's culinary landscape with these delightful food tours. Get a true taste of what the local area has to offer when you sign up for one of these tours. 

• Third Wave Coffee Tours
  When it comes to gourmet coffee, the Pacific Northwest truly shines. Get your caffeine fix and more with Third Wave Coffee Tours. Go behind the scenes to learn the secrets of artisanal coffee at cafes and micro-roasters in the Pearl District, Slabtown, and other Portland neighborhoods. Satisfy your sweet tooth on the Specialty Coffee and Artisanal Donuts tour. Fitness fans can even take part in a five-mile run while learning about Portland's gourmet coffee scene. Tours last approximately two hours, and the price is $59. Visit the website for schedules and reservations. 
  
  
• Farm 2 Fork Tours
  The farm-to-table movement has raised awareness among diners about where their food comes from. The guides at Farm 2 Fork Tours take you directly to the source, giving you an up-close and personal look at sustainable food practices. Learn to shuck oysters on the Coastal Exploration tour, watch cheese being made on the Dairy Experience tour, or visit an urban farm on the Taste of Willamette Valley tour. Customize your tour by adding a cooking class or a catered farm-to-table meal. Tours run five to six hours, and prices start at $149. Visit the website to book your reservation.
  
  
• Portland by Mouth
  Sherri, founder and hostess of Portland by Mouth, has a goal to create a community around a shared passion for food. Visit five to six restaurants in the Buckman or Kerns neighborhoods, sampling a range of cuisines such as Cuban, Italian, and Asian. Enjoy a strolling brunch in the historic Mississippi district, savoring delicious pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and brunch cocktails. Plan on approximately three hours for each tour. Price for Buckman and Kerns tours is $89 each, while the brunch tour is $70, with alcoholic beverages included for an additional $15. Visit the website to view the calendar and make a reservation.
  
  
• Lost Plate
  Lost Plate takes their inspiration from the city's favorite motto: "Keep Portland Weird." Their tours focus on food carts, microbreweries, and other establishments that make Portland's culinary landscape so unique. If you're looking for a romantic outing or a fun day with friends, check out the Willamette Valley Wine tour. Choose three wineries from a selection of seven to 10 locations and travel on their hop-on-hop-off shuttle. Food tours are $59 and $79 for 2.5 hours, all-inclusive. The wine tour is $79-$119 for a 6.5-hour trip and covers transportation only. Visit the website to book a tour.
  
  
• Forktown Food Tours
  According to their slogan, Forktown Food Tours are "Designed by food lovers for food lovers." Founded in 2010, making them the longest-operating food tour company in Portland, Forktown supports local businesses by promoting an appreciation for the city's culinary culture. Tour options include "classic" Downtown, "eclectic" Mississippi Avenue, and "global" Division Street. Ready for some international food adventures? Heidi Burnette, owner of Forktown, conducts global tours in countries such as Italy, Spain, China, and Australia. Local tours include groups of two to six people, allowing for easy interaction among participants. Price is $115. Visit the website for current tour availability.
  
  
• BeerQuest 
  Portland's reputation for first-class coffee is rivaled only by its status as the number one craft brew city in America. BeerQuest ups the ante by offering a Haunted Pub tour, which features stops such as the infamous Shanghai Tunnels and the haunted cigar room at Kells Irish Pub. Tours are led by local historians and ghost hunters, who provide colorful stories of paranormal activities. Price for the two-hour tour is $39. Visit the website for the full schedule. 

Portland is the place to be. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for all your real estate needs and for assistance moving to the area. 

Do you want to save money while enjoying everything Portland has to offer? Our brokers have a suggestion or two that may be just what you're looking for. Portland's vibrant community has plenty to offer, and you can fill a weekend near Portland homes for sale without spending a single cent.

Let's take a closer look at some of the many fun and budget-friendly places you can enjoy around Portland:

• Forest Park – See Website for Location Details and Access Points
  At more than 5,000 acres, Forest Park is a unique natural oasis in the midst of Portland. Six times bigger than New York City's famous Central Park, it operates as a refugee for hundreds of local wildlife species. There are more than 40 access points to choose from, and visitors will find more than 80 marked trails. Every trail is open to visitors on foot and dogs on a leash. Some areas accommodate bicycles and horses.
  
  
• Washington Park – 4033 Southwest Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
  Thought of as the signature park of greater Portland, Washington Park is filled with some unexpected perks and amenities. It is the site of the Hoyt Arboretum, the International Rose Test Garden (typically blooming between May and October), and the Oregon Zoo. The Oregon Zoo alone is home to 2,000 animals from more than 200 global species, including lions, tigers, and lots more.
  
  
• Oregon Rail Heritage Center – 2250 Southeast Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214
  Oregon Rail Heritage Center is a 100% free attraction managed by the nonprofit Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation and its volunteers. The centerpiece of the permanent exhibits is the set of three historic locomotives, which have been carefully preserved. All three of these vintage steam engines were originally owned by the City of Portland, and the oldest one dates back to 1905.
  
  
• Oregon Historical Society – 1200 Southwest Park Avenue, Portland, OR 97205
  Safeguarding Oregon's rich and varied history for generations to come is the mission here at the Oregon Historical Society. Itself a historic institution established back in 1898, and it is only steps from the current location of the Portland Art Museum. It is constantly offering an array of permanent and temporary exhibits.
  
  
• Portland International Rose Test Garden – 400 Southwest Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR 97205
  There are more varieties of roses than virtually any other kind of flower grown in the United States, and the reason is the many horticulturists who are tirelessly working to develop new breeds. The results are here to shine at the Portland International Rose Test Garden, where visitors can see (and smell) more than 10,000 bushes. The collection represents about 650 distinct rose varieties, and it peaks in June.
  
  
• Pioneer Courthouse Square – 701 Southwest 6th Avenue, Portland, OR 97205
  The hub of public life in Portland, Pioneer Courthouse Square is known and beloved as "Portland's living room." It is totally free to visit, and there's always something going on, so you will want to check out the website to review the latest event calendar. Concerts such as the PDX Live Series, known as "Signature Events," are held on a regular basis. Variety shows, operas, DJs, and more can be found every week.
  
  
• Tom McCall Waterfront Park – 98 Southwest Naito Parkway, Portland, OR 97204
  Tom McCall Waterfront Park is where to discover the seasonal Portland Saturday Market, which runs from March through December every year. Now in its 49th year, it's a favorite among local vendors and attracts about 150 every week. You'll marvel at the rich assortment of arts and crafts, produce, pantry staples, and gifts, with a selection that's uniquely Portland. Live music takes place almost every day.
  
  
• Powell's City of Books – 1005 West Burnside Street, Portland, OR 97209
  A Portland classic that carries on the tradition of the local bookshop, Powell's City of Books is a place where you can still spot unexpected finds and rare first editions even big e-retailers can't match. The world's largest independent bookstore, Powell's is an experience: it spans an entire city block and has about one million volumes under one roof. 

Want to learn more about Portland real estate? Contact us today to get started.

Portland homes for sale are smack dab in the middle of one of America's most unique and vibrant cities. Portland has long been known for following the beat of its own drum, and you'll find this reflected in all the city has to offer – from businesses to nonprofits, historic sites, and parks.

You truly can explore Portland every day for a year and only scratch the surface. Our brokers think that's one of the most exciting parts of living in The City of Roses, but it can also be a lot to take in. So, we have a selection of just a few local "hidden gems" to get you started.

Let's take a closer look at a few of the places that make Portland what it is:

• Multnomah Whiskey Library – 1124 Southwest Alder Street, Portland, OR 97205
  Multnomah Whiskey Library has a distinctly Portland take on the tapas craze, but the small plates aren't the stars of the show. Instead, you'll find more than 1,500 different drinks to choose from. Whiskey is only the beginning, and new spirits are joining the selection regularly.
  
  
• Academy Theater – 7818 Southeast Stark Street, Portland, OR 97215
  Academy Theater is a "movie palace" that transports you back to the golden age of cinema in plush splendor. Showings typically include one recent popular release along with two classic comedies. The food and drink selection runs the gamut from theater mainstays to coffee, tea, and spiced apple cider.
  
  
• Red Light Clothing Exchange – 3590 Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard, Portland, OR 97214
  Red Light Clothing Exchange is just one example of the many clothing exchanges all throughout Portland, and easily one of the most popular. Open Thursday through Monday, it is now in the process of developing a digital gallery where you can browse its inventory online for the first time.
  
  
• World Foods Portland – 9845 Southwest Barbur Boulevard, Portland, OR 97219
  Not to be confused with the much larger chain of a similar name, World Foods Portland is a family-owned and operated specialty store that includes a grocery and deli. With two locations throughout Portland, each open from 8 a.m. to late, fresh fare is always close at hand.
  
  
• The Green Microgym – 828 Southeast 34th Avenue, Portland, OR 97214
  The Green Microgym has a unique way of keeping its members motivated. It's "green" because of its low carbon footprint – the lights are powered by the energy produced as visitors work out. As you work out, you're doing your part to power the building (including that all-important air conditioning system.)
  
  
• Rimsky-Korsakoffee House – 707 Southeast 12th Avenue, Portland, OR 97214
  Featured in the Atlas Obscura series of offbeat travelogues, Rimsky-Korsakoffee House (or just "Rimsky's" to its friends) has been called the best coffee in Portland. Hard to find unless you know where to look, it holds special surprises based on the composer each indoor table is named for.
  
  
• Glowing Greens PDX – 509 Southwest Taylor Street, Portland, OR 97204
  Want to enjoy some golf, but it's too hot or cold outside? Glowing Greens PDX has you covered with a unique miniature golf experience. In these arcade-like surroundings, decked out with pirate and alien decor, you'll find some surprisingly challenging shots to land and fun prizes to win.
  
  
• Mother Foucault's Bookshop – 523 Southeast Morrison Street, Portland, OR 97214
  Mother Foucault's Bookshop calls on you to buy local with its classic used bookstore experience. On top of the opportunity to get lost in the stacks, you can meet local authors, enjoy their readings, and even get an autograph or two. Readers in search of a community will love it.

Ready to learn more about life in Portland? Contact us to learn more about the Portland, OR area.

While Portland features fantastic forests and stunning mountain views, the city is also surrounded by incredible lakes. When our brokers seek a day of activity or relaxation, they head for these lakes around Portland that fill either need. 

• Blue Lake Regional Park - 21224 NE Blue Lake Rd., Fairview, OR 97024
  It's water, water everywhere at Blue Lake Regional Park, only minutes from Fairview homes for sale. The namesake lake, with its swimming beach and fishing spots, is the main attraction. Kids can romp in the activity-filled splash pad, while everyone can enjoy walks around three additional ponds and wetlands, with opportunities to spot birds and wildlife. Challenge family and friends to games of basketball, volleyball, softball, soccer, horseshoes, or disc golf. Be sure to visit the Natural Discovery Garden before or after your leisurely picnic lunch. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily through September 14. Admission is free, but there is a $5 parking fee per car.
  
  
• Vancouver Lake Regional Park - 6801 NW Lower River Rd., Vancouver, WA 98660
  One of the many benefits of Vancouver homes for sale is proximity to Vancouver Lake Regional Park. The sprawling, 190-acre grounds lie on the west shore of beautiful Vancouver Lake, which itself covers 2,300 acres. Swimming, windsurfing, canoeing, and kayaking are popular activities on the lake, which hosts a number of rowing competitions each year. Work up an appetite with a lively game of sand volleyball, then settle in around the picnic tables and barbecue grills for lunch. Take a stroll along park trails for scenic views of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams. Vancouver Lake Regional Park is open daily from 7 a.m. - dusk. There is no admission fee, but parking is $3 per car. 
  
  
• Buck Lake - Mt. Hood National Forest
  Discover (or rediscover) the joys of a good old-fashioned swimming hole at Buck Lake. This dog-friendly secluded spot, deep within Mt. Hood National Forest, is so serene that you'll forget you're near Sandy homes for sale. Fed from rain and snow melt, Buck Lake's crystal-clear, aquamarine waters create a calming ambiance that's perfect for relaxation. Not ready to leave? Primitive campsites are available. There is no admission fee or restricted hours.
  
  
• Timothy Lake - Mt. Hood National Forest
  Mt. Hood National Forest doesn't have just one lake to stop at. There are 150 lakes to choose from! While you're enjoying your Clackamas County outdoor adventure, make sure to visit Timothy Lake, which is the largest lake in the national forest. This lake offers fantastic views of the mountain, plus there are ample fishing opportunities if you decide to bring your fishing gear along for your lake day. Trout and salmon are common in this lake. Plus, the nearby campsites make it so you can stay as long as you'd like. In fact, there are over 260 designated camping spots to choose from around the lake, making this one of the largest camping spots in the whole state. Reserve a camping spot online, so you're all set for a relaxing nature retreat.
  
  
• Trillium Lake - Government Camp, OR 97028
  Breathtaking Trillium Lake, just a short drive from Government Camp homes for sale, is as pretty as the flower that shares its name. With majestic Mt. Hood reflected on the water, people enjoy non-motorized boating, swimming, and trout fishing on the 63-acre lake. Trillium Shoreline Trail, a two-mile pet-friendly boardwalk path that circles the lake, makes a nice walk that's easy enough for families. Plan your visit to include sunrise or sunset for some Instagram-worthy photos. Film and book lovers frequently make a side trip to Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark approximately 10 miles away. Dating back to the 1930s, the resort served as a location in the movie version of The Shining. If you prefer less ghostly quarters, Trillium Lake also features a campground. A day-use pass for Trillium Lake is $10.

Outdoor adventures are one of the many things people love about living near Portland. Do your summer plans include buying or selling a home around Portland? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to get started.

Few sights can match the awe-inspiring experience of a sunrise over the spectacular natural scenery around Portland homes for sale, and there are plenty of great trails in the area that allow you to get a front-row seat for one of nature's most amazing displays. As an added bonus, hitting the trails early allows you to beat the crowds and leaves you plenty of time to tackle everything else you need to do in your busy day. Our brokers appreciate the natural beauty of Portland, and we've got all of the key details on some of the best trails for a sunrise hike around the city.

• Kelley Point Park – N. Kelly Point Rd., Portland, OR 97203
  Located at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, Kelly Point Park has a long, interesting history. In the early days of Oregon's settlement, this land was viewed as a place to start a city. Instead, it eventually became a city park, where you can watch the sunrise over the rivers with a pleasant breeze at your back. The Kelley Point Loop trail makes it easy to traverse the park with a short, scenic 1.7-mile hike.
  
  
• Powell Butte Nature Park – 16160 SE Powell Blvd., Portland, OR 97236
  If you're in the mood for a hike with some elevation, Powell Butte Nature Park is an excellent choice. The park is located on an extinct cinder cone volcano, with about 600 feet of elevation to hike before you reach the highest point. There are a variety of trails here to choose from, and watching the sunrise from the top of an extinct volcano is one Portland experience that you won't want to miss.
  
  
• Mt. Tabor Park – SE 60th Ave. & SE Salmon St., Portland, OR 97215
  Why settle for one hike on a cinder cone volcano when you can have two? Mt. Tabor Park is also located on a volcanic cinder cone, with paved trails that help you travel the 636 feet of elevation until you reach the top. This park offers some of the best views of the Portland skyline that you'll find anywhere, making it a great place to capture some sunrise photos during your hike.
  
  
• Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge – SE Sellwood Blvd. & SE 7th Ave., Portland, OR 97202
  For a sunrise hike with a side of bird watching, try a trip to Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. The refuge features a 2.3-mile loop trail that offers excellent views of the blue herons that like to congregate here and allows you to watch the sunrise over the marsh. There are dozens of other species of birds to spot as you hike, with different species to see depending on what time of year you visit.
  
  
• Forest Park – Portland, OR 97231
  With more than 40 access points located around Portland, 80 miles of trails, and over 5,200 acres to explore, Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world. There's a trail here for hikers of every experience level, and the Trail Map makes it easy to find an access point to Forest Park near your home. With hilly, occasionally steep terrain, this park rewards your hiking effort with some of the best sunrise views in Portland. The longest trail at Forest Park is the 30-mile Wildwood Trail, which is recognized as a National Recreation Trail and connects with many of the park's access points.
  
  
• Tom McCall Waterfront Park – 98 SW Naito Pkwy., Portland, OR 97204
  Located in the heart of downtown Portland along the Willamette River, Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a dog-friendly park ideal for a quick morning hike with your furry friend. While the scenery here is more urban than the other larger parks on our list, the waterfront views are still fantastic. There are also interactive fountains and splash pads perfect for keeping the kids entertained if you bring them along for your hike.
  
  
• Hoyt Arboretum – 4000 SW Fairview Blvd., Portland, OR 97221
  Speaking of kid-friendly hiking destinations, Hoyt Arboretum offers a number of advantages if you're going for a sunrise hike with the whole family. The trails here are expansive, well-marked, and easy to traverse, making them ideal for young hikers. Hoyt Arboretum is home to more than 2,000 species of shrubs and trees, with educational signs that make it easy to teach your kids about each species. Watching the sunrise above the towering trees and lush green scenery is something that visitors of all ages can appreciate.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy the natural beauty of Portland? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Portland, OR area.

Get to know the glittering jewel of Portland's incredible neighborhoods. Our brokers share their favorite must-see places in the chic and historic Pearl District.

History of the Pearl District

While the word "pearl" conjures up images of a shiny, polished gem, Portland's Pearl District was originally a gritty area that was home to railroads, warehouses, and industrial buildings. In the mid-1980s, urban renewal began transforming the neighborhood into a popular district known for art galleries, charming boutiques, and trendy restaurants.

At one time, the district was known simply as the Triangle, but a search began for a more satisfying name. The Rose Arts Magazine presented a list of suggestions, and the Pearl District ended up gaining favor as a reference to the artists who were setting up studios in warehouses being converted to lofts.

Activities

• Jamison Square - 810 NW 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Green spaces were a major part of the plan for the Pearl District, and the best-known may be Jamison Square. This pocket-sized park, just under one acre, is a favorite of families because of its centerpiece fountain. Designed to replicate a tidal pool, the fountain features a waterfall that cascades into a continually refilling basin. Park hours are 5 a.m. -  midnight daily. 
  
  
• First Thursday - NW 13th Ave. & NW Irving St., Portland, OR 97210
  First Thursday is one of three monthly art walks held in Portland. Artists are on hand at Pearl District galleries to discuss their work, as well as selling their pieces at street stands. Live music and refreshments complete the picture. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. and admission is free.

Shops

• Powell's City of Books - 1005 W. Burnside St., Portland, OR 97209
  Founded in 1971, Powell's City of Books is a true Portland landmark. The store takes up an entire city block with nine color-coded rooms that encompass more than 3,500 different sections. Book lovers from around the country flock to the Rare Book Room, which includes autographed first editions and other items of interest. Powell's is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Recycled Chic Boutique - 239 NW 13th Ave., Suite 209, Portland, OR 97209
  It's no surprise that Portland residents want to look stylish while still observing their commitment to the environment. Recycled Chic Boutique offers a thoughtfully curated selection of gently-used designer clothing and accessories, from casual streetwear to high fashion. You're likely to find brands such as Alexander McQueen, Burberry, and Jimmy Choo represented. Hours are noon - 4 p.m. on weekdays.

Dining

• Fuller's Coffee Shop - 136 NW 9th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Tradition is alive and well in the Pearl District at Fuller's Coffee Shop. This old-school diner opened in 1947 and still retains the delightful retro ambiance. Instead of booths or tables, take a seat at the classic U-shaped counters with swivel stools. Breakfast is served all day, as well as comfort food favorites such as BLTs, burgers, and egg salad sandwiches. Fuller's is open 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. daily except Sunday when starting time is 8 a.m. 
  
  
• Oven and Shaker - 1134 NW Everett St., Portland, OR 97209
  Pizza may be considered casual food, but it's serious business at Oven and Shaker. Chef Cathy Whims, a multiple James Beard award nominee, was inspired by numerous trips to Italy. Oven and Shaker's pizza begins with their signature 70-year-old sourdough starter and features fresh local ingredients for the toppings. Pies are hand-tossed and fired in a Milanese wood-burning oven that was transported brick-by-brick from Europe. Hours are 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday, noon - 10 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Entertainment

• Portland Center Stage - 128 NW 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  From its origins as a branch of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Portland Center Stage has grown to become one of the top 20 regional theaters in the country. In addition to plays, Center Stage hosts events such as art exhibits, improv shows, and live music. 
  
  
• The Big Legrowlski - 812 NW Couch St., Portland, Or 97209
  At The Big Legrowlski shows are on every night, featuring the best local musicians, open jams, and dance parties with top DJs. Hours are 7 p.m. - midnight Sunday through Thursday and 6 p.m. - midnight Wednesday through Saturday. Showtime is 7 p.m. Cover charge runs $5-$10, with no cover for open jams.

No one knows Portland homes for sale like our cheerful and experienced brokers. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more.

Portland is affectionately known as Rose City, but the local landscape produces an amazing range of plants, flowers, fruits, and vegetables.

Nature and community are two of the most cherished aspects in Portland, so it's easy to see why these things combine at local community gardens.

Our brokers take a look at the ever-growing (no pun intended!) network of community gardens around Portland homes for sale and let you know how you can get involved.

Community Gardens

In 1975, city leaders got the ball rolling with the Community Gardens program. Residents team up with Portland Parks & Recreation employees to create and nurture 58 gardens throughout the city, with some welcome physical activity and social interaction as a bonus.

Each year, plots are assigned between February and June, with a limit of one plot per household. One person is designated as the primary gardener, who is expected to complete at least half the work on their household's plot.

Plot sizes run from 50 to 800 square feet, along with a smaller ADA-accessible raised bed. Annual fees are determined on a sliding scale based on household size and income, running between $5-$220. Scholarships covering up to 75 percent of the fees are available to qualified households.

In the spirit of cooperation, all gardeners complete a minimum of six hours of service per year on outside plots in their garden. Common tasks can include weeding the paths and fence lines or cleaning the tool shed.

Produce for People is a side project in which gardens contribute fruits and vegetables to local food banks and shelters. Produce grown in community gardens includes a variety of versatile, nutrient-rich foods such as tomatoes, green beans, winter squash, zucchini, collard greens, and cucumbers.

Friends of Portland Community Gardens

When budget cuts threatened to shut down the Community Gardens program in 1985, another group stepped in to form Friends of Portland Community Gardens. Like Community Gardens, the non-profit organization has a mission to promote the development of healthy food and community bonds.

FPCG does not have its own network of gardens. Rather, it functions as a support system for the city's program along with other non-Parks & Recreation gardens throughout Portland. This support takes the form of providing supplies, cash awards, fiscal sponsorships, and educational resources. Occasionally, as in the case of Crossroads Community Garden, FPCG will coordinate efforts of interested parties who want to create a new garden.

As with any non-profit, FPCG is dependent on volunteers. Supporters can sign up to work in the field or at special events. The organization also looks for help with committees like Finance, Fundraising, Volunteer Recruitment, and Marketing. Individual and family memberships are available for annual fees of $25 and $45, respectively.

Grow Portland

Grow Portland, founded in 2010, was initially built on the foundation so wonderfully established by Community Gardens and FPCG. Five years later, Grow Portland expanded on that mission by reaching out to the next generation of gardeners. 

When Grow Portland discovered that teachers wanted to offer garden-based education but lacked resources, the organization started programs to address the need. They later joined forces with Portland Earth, Art, & Agriculture Project to use gardens at public schools as an innovative way to teach kids about ecology, art, and food.

In the meantime, Grow Portland continues to support community gardening throughout the city. Their work is currently focused in East Portland.

Activities of Grow Portland have also placed an emphasis on refugees and immigrants. Expansion of community gardening access for this segment created an increase in "healing spaces" for families dealing with displacement and trauma. 

Results tell the story. According to studies of Grow Portland participants, 100 percent reported reduced levels of stress and increased physical activities, with greater consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Gardeners harvest an average of $500 worth of organic produce each year, for a significant financial savings. 

Want to support Grow Portland? The organization welcomes monthly and annual donations, and some companies have a matching program for charitable giving by employees.

Find out why life in Portland is all roses and no thorns. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for more local intel as well as experienced help with all your real estate needs.

Portland offers plenty of restaurants serving fantastic international dishes. Whether you're in search of a new favorite roll or you've never tried sushi before, join our brokers in celebrating International Sushi Day on Saturday, June 18 with a visit to one of these amazing Portland restaurants.

• Bamboo Sushi - 310 SE 28th Ave., Portland, OR 97214 
  In 2008, Bamboo Sushi established a new level in responsible dining by becoming the world's first certified sustainable sushi restaurant. They have partnered with organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council, an independent group that sets guidelines for sustainable fishing and seafood traceability. Don't miss their Big Island roll, a customer favorite that's available as a "Little Island" vegetarian option. Bamboo Sushi is open 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when doors close at 10 p.m.
  
  
• Masu Sushi - 406 SW 13th Ave., Portland, OR 97205
  At Masu Sushi, the dining room is as much a feast for the eyes as the food itself. Masu is located on the secluded second floor of a turn-of-the-century building in downtown Portland. The mid-century modern decor creates an ambiance that's both elegant and comfortable. Add a touch of drama by ordering the St. Helens Volcano roll, which comes in an appropriately flaming presentation. Masu is open seven days a week from 5 p..m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Murata Japanese Restaurant - 200 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201
  Are you looking for a traditional Japanese dining experience? Join family and friends in one of the classic tatami rooms at Murata Japanese Restaurant. Fans of Murata appreciate the attentive and efficient customer service, with food arriving promptly but no one feels rushed. If anyone in your group doesn't eat sushi, Murata has a full menu of other Japanese favorites, including teriyaki, tonkatsu, and broiled fish. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended. Lunch hours are 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekdays and dinner hours are 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  
• Mirakutei - 536 E. Burnside St., Portland, OR 87214
  Mirakutei, which translates to, "a place to eat and enjoy," perfectly sums up the restaurant's mission. Sushi chef Hiro Ikegaya founded Mirakutei in 2011 as a Japanese tapas, ramen, and sushi bar. Upon his semi-retirement in 2018, he passed the baton to brothers Nico and Job Martinez, who worked their way up under Hiro's tutelage. Treat yourself to omakase, or "chef's choice," which is available any time on request. Hours are noon - 9 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Yoko's Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar - 2878 SE Gladstone St., Portland, OR 97202
  Yoko's Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar dates back more than 30 years, to the time when sushi was still somewhat new on the Portland dining scene. The restaurant is still a trailblazer thanks to Yoko herself, who is one of only a relative handful of female sushi chefs in the country. Andrea Damewood, restaurant critic of the Portland Mercury, calls Taka's Tuna "the most iconic sushi dish in town." This unique item features spicy ahi tuna, avocado, and rice fried into the shape and texture of a McDonald's hash brown patty. Hours are 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. every day but Monday.
  
  
• Sho Japanese Restaurant - 10100 Barbur Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  While Sho Japanese Restaurant serves authentic dishes, they aim to blend tradition with the best elements of Portland's thriving food scene. In this family-owned restaurant, all dressing, sauces, and broths, including dashi, are made from scratch with high-quality ingredients. Sho also sources all seasonal vegetables from local growers whenever possible. According to one rave review, a diner was so pleased with their food that they immediately ordered more to take home. Lunch is served weekdays from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., while dinner hours are 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sho is open weekends from 11:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 
  
  
• Sushi Mazi - 2126 SE Division St., Portland, OR 97292
  Whether you're talking business, sharing a romantic date night, or meeting friends for dinner and drinks, Sushi Mazi is the place to be. The sleek, contemporary decor complements chef Marc Mazi's cutting-edge approach to sushi, experimenting with ingredients and techniques. If you're following a special diet, the menu includes a number of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Most items are available as your choice of nigiri, sashimi, roll, or cone. Hours are 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 3 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Portland homes for sale are surrounded by a diversity that's unlike anyplace else. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for qualified help buying or selling a home. 

The Portland Saturday Market is a local treasure in the area around our Portland homes for sale. With a history dating back nearly 50 years, it's easy to see why. This gathering of local vendors is a remarkable achievement. Let's take a closer look at the Portland Saturday Market and see what keeps it drawing so much attention after all these years. 

History

The Portland Saturday Market began in 1974 as a small gathering of local vendors interested in selling their wares to people in their community. This type of market was common in the early 1970s, reflecting high levels of interest in crafts like macrame, tie-dye, and crochet. 

The market started small, but it was a beloved local tradition that many hoped to see expand in the coming years. Eventually, it attracted the attention of Bill Naito, a major investor in Portland's economic development. Naito supported the endeavor, and the market was given permission to use a plot of land in the city's downtown core each weekend. This land is currently known as 2 SW Naito Parkway and sits between Waterfront Park and Ankeny Plaza. The space is marked by a large curving golden sign designating it as the official market location. 

After nearly 50 years, the Portland Saturday Market is currently the largest continuously running outdoor market in the US. It is open on Saturdays from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sundays from 11 AM to 4:30 PM. It is also open for the entire week before Christmas to give shoppers a chance to pick up any last-minute gifts they need. The market typically takes a short break between Christmas and early March to account for the cold Oregon weather at this time.

Currently, the Portland Saturday Market boasts over 400 vendors, attracts 750,000 visitors per year, and is responsible for around $12 million in annual sales. 

Shopping, Lunch, and More

The Portland Saturday Market is well-known for its impressive selection of craft items. Visitors can purchase items like skirts, scarves, earrings, greeting cards, stickers, prints, and more. All items sold at the market are handmade by craftspeople from all over the Pacific Northwest. The same vendors are usually present from week to week, so if you like a particular vendor's wares, you can always come back for more. 

Visitors can also purchase food and drink from the fleet of food trucks that drives into the event space every weekend. Many people stop by the market just to enjoy a delicious lunch from one of these businesses and enjoy the market's laid-back bohemian atmosphere. Our brokers have been known to stop in for a bite between showings! 

During the first Sunday each month from July to October, the market hosts special kids' activities for the local children. These include puppet shows, crafting demonstrations, and other entertainment. The market also receives some grant funding from Metropolitan Arts Commission in recognition of its role in promoting the work of local artists. It's a great place to go if you want to become better acquainted with the work of artists in this famously creative area. 

The Fun Continues Online

In an effort to expand its reach and comply with social distancing requirements, the market has also set up an online store. Shoppers can purchase items from the market directly on the organization's website. This site is constantly updated with the latest wares, making it a great place to get a preview of what you'll find in the market in person that week. Each seller manages the listings for their own products, and some may take orders for custom items if contacted in advance. 

Most sellers ship their wares to addresses in Portland and the surrounding area. Some sellers may ship items to farther locations upon request. Be sure to ask sellers about shipping availability and costs before placing an order.

Make Portland Your Home Today

The Portland Saturday Market is more successful than ever, and it's very likely that it will continue to grow in the coming years. If you're interested in living closer to this thriving small business community, contact us today. We'll help you find the perfect Portland home for your needs and budget. 

Spring is here in Portland, but there will still be some chilly days where you'll need comfort food to help you warm up! Ramen is flavorful and inexpensive, putting it high on the list of comfort foods as ranked by our brokers. When you need a meal to satisfy your body and soul, head to one of these great ramen spots near Portland homes for sale.

• Afuri Izakaya - 923 SE 7th Ave., Portland, OR 97214
  Afuri Izakaya is one of the more popular ramen restaurants in Tokyo. When it came time to open their first location outside Japan, they passed up international hubs like London, New York, and Dubai in favor of Portland. The owners found that Mount Hood's ecosystem, much like the namesake Afuri mountain, produces pure spring water that's ideal for making ramen. Afuri's signature yuzu shio broth is flavored with Japanese citrus and salt for perfect balance. Hours are 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Ramen Ippo - Nob Hill Carts, 1845 NW 23rd Pl., Portland, OR 97210
  After Japanese native Daisuke Kondo worked as a sushi chef in Las Vegas for 15 years, he turned to a childhood favorite when opening his own business with Ramen Ippo. The headliner is paitan broth, flavored with chicken, but the menu includes vegetarian and vegan options as well. Thanks to the success at Nob Hill Carts, Ramen Ippo just opened a second cart at 6200 SE Milwaukie Ave. Hours at Nob Hill are 11:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Boke Bowl - 1028 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
  As a monthly pop-up in 2010, Boke Bowl was in the vanguard of the ramen craze. After a year, they had developed enough of a following to open their brick-and-mortar location. The hearty ramen dishes are supplemented with whimsical sides and desserts, such as PB&J steamed buns and "Boke Twinkies," made with miso and butterscotch. Boke Bowl is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Mirakutei - 536 E. Burnside St., Portland, OR 97214
  With a name that translates to "a place to eat and enjoy," Mirakutei doubles down on iconic Japanese cuisine by offering a wide selection of sushi and sashimi. Pair your bowl of sapporo ramen, characterized by its buttery flavor, with one of dozens of specialty sushi rolls. Customer favorites include the Trail Blazer, with shrimp tempura, crab salad, and avocado, and the Hello Kitty, a California roll topped with tuna, yellowtail, and salmon. Mirakutei is open seven days a week from noon - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Boxer - 1668 NW 23rd Ave., Portland, OR 97210
  Founders Micah Camden and Katie Popp earned their culinary chops with burgers and donuts before turning to the fast-casual concept with Boxer. Customers rave about the spicy red miso and tonkotsu shio broths, both topped with pork belly, while vegetarians love the yellow coconut curry broth with broccoli rabe, pickled shiitake, corn, and scallions. Boxer recently expanded its menu to include sushi, sashimi, and craft cocktails. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
  
  
• Kinboshi Ramen - 609 SE Ankeny St. A, Portland, OR 97214
  Marukin, the local outpost of a Japanese chain, has been reincarnated as Kinboshi Ramen under its Portland owners. Kinboshi's claim to fame is being the first to bring hakata-style ramen, with its creamy pork broth and thin, straight noodles, to the area. The menu also includes several vegan broths made with organic soy milk known as tonyu. Try the Tebasaki chicken wings, a recent addition that's made a big splash. Kinboshi is open daily from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Kayo's Ramen Bar - 3808 N. Williams Ave. #124, Portland, OR 97227
  Kayoko, owner, and namesake of Kayo's Ramen Bar, learned to cook at the tender age of 8 while her parents were busy running their department store in Osaka, Japan. When Kayoko moved to Portland, she put her skills to use with her innovative ramen restaurant. Kayo's specialty is light, clear, and thin assari-style broths. Each bowl is finished with one of 17 incredible sauces made fresh every day. The lighter broth means you'll have room for a slice of the delicious Japanese-style Basque cheesecake. Kayo's is open Monday through Saturday, with lunch served from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Hapa PDX Ramen & Whiskey - 3848 SE Gladstone St., Portland, OR 97202
  It's island love times two at Hapa PDX Ramen & Whiskey. Their signature G-Special bowl is a mash-up of Tokyo ramen and Hawaiian plate lunches. The ginger ale and sake highball is a popular choice from the sophisticated cocktail menu. Lunch runs from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and dinner is 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. every day but Tuesday.

Life in Portland is wonderful in all seasons. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for answers to all your real estate questions.

Are you searching for a unique shopping experience near Portland homes for sale? You won't have to look far for a historic shopping area that embodies the true spirit of Portland. Our brokers would like to introduce you to the Alberta Arts District!

The Alberta Arts District sits along Northeast Alberta Street in Northeast Portland, crossing parts of the highly desirable Vernon, Concordia, and King neighborhoods. Its energetic and eclectic vibe is powered by its lively community of artists and entrepreneurs.

Throughout the year, many live musical events are focused on the Alberta Arts District, and it's a great place to stop for a bite to eat with many delicious restaurants to choose from. As you explore the storefronts, you'll encounter vibrant murals, sculptures, and a whole lot more. There's always something new to see and do.

Let's look at some of the best places to do some local shopping in the Alberta Arts District:

• Amelia – 2230 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Amelia is a boutique that focuses on feminine flair with a vintage aesthetic. The unique, limited edition products are often not available anywhere else. In addition to clothes, you'll find necklaces, earrings, nail care products, fragrances, candles, art, and crystals.
  
  
• Antler Gallery – 2728 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Now celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Antler Gallery features the works of local artists from all over Oregon, as well as national and international pieces. Nearly 60 creative visionaries call Antler Gallery their artistic home. It also holds a fascinating collection of limited edition and rare prints.
  
  
• Pie Footwear – 2916 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Locally owned and operated, Pie Footwear is a shoe store catering to women and men with a distinctive Portland style. Its inventory includes "zero drop" footwear you'll barely feel on your feet. Pie is also well known for its line of vegan footwear. Many of its products are handmade right in the local area.
  
  
• Ecovibe – 1906 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Ecovibe will delight you with its selection of kitchenware, decor, and art. It also has a veritable forest of local house plants and air plants sorted by need, size, and type, complete with a potting service located right on site. Local chocolates and candies like honey meltaways will also be an extra sweet addition to your shopping experience.
  
  
• Grasshopper Boutique – 1816 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland OR 97211
  From babies to growing tweens and teens, Grasshopper Boutique is where to find fun and educational toys, games, and books to expand young minds. Clothes, puzzles, art supplies, and musical instruments just for the little ones are also stocked in abundant supply, so imaginations can really soar.
  
  
• Frock – 1439 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Frock is a magical place for vintage and handmade fashions and accessories. Working with local designers, it has a seasonal bent, closing its doors four times each year only to spring back into action with all-new offerings and even entire product lines.
  
  
• Blendily - 1532 NE Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Say goodbye to the chemicals in your skincare routine and support local when you shop at Blendily. All of their products are handmade in their stores, plus they put an emphasis on using plants from their own garden. Their homemade products include a selection of serums, soaps, and aromatherapy products. The Alberta Street store is their second location with another one in the Seattle area.

There is always something new to check out in the Portland area. The Alberta Arts District is a fantastic place to do some shopping and offers a glimpse into some of the makers and artists who call the area home! Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more about life in the Portland area.

Running can be done anywhere, at your own pace, and with no special equipment, making it a nearly perfect form of exercise. Grab your running shoes and take in the amazing scenery at these upcoming 5K runs near Portland homes for sale. 

• Rock Creek Trail 5K - Rock Creek Trail, NW West Union Rd. at NW Kahnetta Dr., Portland, OR 97229
  Why wait for a special occasion to work on your times? The weekly Rock Creek Trail 5K offers a chance to run in a beautiful setting while getting to know others in the community. Register online before your first run and receive a scannable barcode that can be used to track your results. Walkers and joggers are welcome to join in. Race time is 9 a.m. every Saturday, and there are no entry fees.
  
  
• Shamrock Run - Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 98 NW Naito Pkwy., Portland, OR 97204
  Get ready for that green beer by burning some calories at the Shamrock Run. 2022 marks the 44th year of this signature event, which begins and ends at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, with its stunning city views. Along with a 5K, events include a 1K, 8K, 15K, half marathon, and walk to accommodate participants at all levels. Before the race, check out the Shamrock Fitness Fair, taking place at the Oregon Convention Center on Friday and Saturday. First start time is 8 a.m. on Sunday, March 13. Entry fees range from $40-$70.
  
  
• TulipFest Run - Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, 33814 S. Meridian Rd., Woodburn, OR 97013
  Colorful fields of flowers form an incredible backdrop for the TulipFest Run. This annual event is hosted by Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, a charming spot that's just minutes from Woodburn homes for sale, as part of their Tulip Festival. In addition to the race, the six-week extravaganza includes hot air balloons, wine tasting, kids' activities, artisan craft booths, and food vendors. Choose from 5K and 10K run/walks and a half marathon, with a start time of 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 19. Entry fees are $45 for the 5K and 10K and $65 for the half-marathon.
  
  
• Couve Clover Run - Vancouver Waterfront Park, 695 Waterfront Way, Vancouver, WA 98660
  "Couve" is a Portuguese word that translates to "spring greens." Usually, it refers to cabbage, but at the Couve Clover Run, "spring green" is the dress code. Participants are invited to don green attire, with a prize awarded for the most festive costume. The course passes by historic Officer's Row, Fort Vancouver, and other notable points right down the street from Vancouver homes for sale. Race distances are 3, 7, and 10 miles. Mark your calendar for 9 a.m. on Sunday, March 20. Entry fees range from $20-$90.
  
  
• Oregon Brewery Running Series - Various locations
  With Portland's status as the epicenter of the craft beer industry, it was only a matter of time before these two favorite pastimes paired up in the Oregon Brewery Running Series. Multiple runs are scheduled monthly from February through November, with each one starting and ending at one of the top breweries around Portland. These non-timed fun runs are intended to promote family-friendly fitness activities, so they're perfect for novice runners. Unwind afterward with live music, giveaways, and other entertainment at that event's sponsoring brewery. Upcoming runs include Von Ebert Brewing on Saturday, March 5, and Oregon City Brewing on Saturday, March 19. Entry fees are $30, with season passes and multi-event packs available. 
  
  
• Spring Classic Duathlon - Vancouver Lake Regional Park, 6801 NW Lower River Rd., Vancouver, WA 98660
  If you like variety in your workouts, the 38th annual Spring Classic Duathlon is for you. An invigorating 12-mile bike run is bookended by two 5K runs. Solo events include a 5K, 10K, and half marathon. Last year, the Duathlon returned to its original home at Vancouver Lake Regional Park, with its inspiring views of the lake along with Columbia River and Mount Hood. The post-race reward is a free beer and meal. The Spring Classic takes place at 7 a.m. on Sunday, April 24. Entry fees are $20-$180.
  
  
• Cinco de Mayo Half Marathon - 9827 NE Sunderland Ave., Portland, OR 97211 
  It's a fiesta of fun at the Cinco de Mayo Half Marathon, a popular spring tradition in Portland. The course, which follows alongside the scenic Columbia River, includes 5K and 10K runs as well. Festivities are scheduled for 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 30. There are two types of registration packages, with early entry fees from $25-80 until March 4.

Need help buying or selling a home? Our brokers can help every step of the way! Contact us today at Coldwell Banker Bain.

Each year, visitors flock to the Pacific Northwest to take in the region's fabled sights. Even so, there are a number of delightful pockets of land, or pocket parks, around Portland homes for sale that manage to stay under the radar. Our brokers let you in on some of their favorite hidden gems in Portland.

• Lovejoy Fountain Park - SW 3rd Ave. & Harrison St., Portland, OR 97204
  Need some time to get away from a hectic workday? Lovejoy Fountain Park is a secret oasis that sits below street level in the heart of downtown. The park's namesake, Asa Lawrence Lovejoy, was one of the earliest developers of the frontier town that became known as Portland. Life Magazine once described the park as "a piece of wilderness transplanted," with its centerpiece fountain and tree-lined borders. Lovejoy Fountain Park is open seven days a week from 5 a.m. - midnight.
  
  
• Poet's Beach - South Waterfront Park, 2001 S. River Dr., Portland, OR 97201
  With a name like Poet's Beach, this hidden gem should be on everyone's must-see list. Located in South Waterfront Park, Poet's Beach sits on the west bank of the Willamette River, just north of the Marquam Bridge. The beach itself is small, but it offers some spectacular views. Swimming is allowed during summer, although there are no lifeguards on duty. Park hours are 5 a.m. - midnight daily.
  
  
• Kelley Point Park - N. Marine Dr. & Lombard St., Portland, OR 97203
  Hall Jackson Kelley, a transplant from New England, was one of the more vocal supporters of the Pacific Northwest in the 19th century. He failed in his efforts to create a city at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, but the spot ultimately became Kelley Point Park. Situated on an isolated point of land, across from Sauvie Island, the dog-friendly park is worth a visit for the beautiful views from the vista point. Hours are 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge - SE 7th Ave. & Sellwood Blvd., Portland, OR 97202
  Take the whole family on an outing to Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, a fascinating real-life classroom that's the first facility of its kind in Portland. The 163 acres of meadows, wetlands, and woodlands support a wide range of fish and wildlife, including many that have been designated as "special status." Kids will have fun spotting quail, woodpeckers, great blue herons, and others from more than 175 species of birds that live on the grounds. Oak Bottom Wildlife Refuge is open daily from 5 a.m. - midnight.
  
  
• Two Plum Park - 4057 NE 7th Ave., Portland, OR 97212
  At less than half an acre in size, Two Plum Park is truly a blink-and-you'll-miss-it parcel of land. But this tiny park, just big enough for a walking path and playground, serves as an enduring tribute to the power of community. When King neighborhood resident Joe King grew tired of the overgrown lot down the street, he started cleaning it up himself. Others joined in the project, and they ultimately convinced the city to turn it into a park, named for the two plum trees that grow there. Hours are 5 a.m. - midnight daily.
  
  
• Leach Botanical Garden - 6704 SE 122nd Ave., Portland, OR 97236
  Leach Botanical Garden is the culmination of two love stories. Married in 1913, John and Lilla Leach remained together until John's death in 1972. During their long and successful marriage, Lilla discovered an interest in botany, which she pursued at their "Sleepy Hollow" home on Johnson Creek. The couple bequeathed the property to the City of Portland to be maintained as a botanical park and museum. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
  
  
• Wishing Tree - 2954 NE 7th Ave., Portland, OR 97212
  While it may not technically fit the definition of a park, the Wishing Tree certainly merits a visit. In 2013, owner Nicole Helprin wrote out some wishes and hung them on the tree before leaving for a trip. Upon her return, she found the entire tree covered in wishes from others. The tradition continues to this day, and tags and markers are available to add your own wishes.

No matter what your lifestyle or background, you'll feel right at home in Portland. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for help with your real estate needs. 

Working from home has become increasingly common, particularly over the last year and a half. Will you be working remotely in 2022? Whether you work full-time, or only a couple of days a week, it's important to minimize distractions and maximize productivity. And sometimes it's difficult to do that in your house.

What you need is a coworking space in your neighborhood. Thankfully, you'll find many of these spaces throughout the Pacific Northwest. Here's what to look for when considering a coworking space for your 2022 remote work.

Benefits of a Coworking Space

A coworking space is an office environment where independent workers, such as freelancers, startups, and anyone else who doesn't work in a fixed location, can come to get things done. Workers typically pay an hourly fee, bringing their laptops and working surrounded by others in similar situations.

Coworking spaces provide many benefits that working from home doesn't. For instance, it offers a better work/life balance. When you work and live in the same location, it can feel like you're always on the clock, even when you're not working. Likewise, when you are working, you can be plagued by household chores that need to be done.

By working in a different location, you can keep your personal and professional business separate. It also helps eliminate the distractions that your home brings with it. In a coworking space, you won't be tempted to sneak off to watch TV in the middle of the day, answer personal e-mails, scroll through social media, or do chores, while you're supposed to be working.

By eliminating those distractions and putting you in a "work" frame of mind, coworking spaces tend to make people more productive than they would be simply working from home. However, it only works if you're able to find the right space for your needs.

What to Look for in a Coworking Space

First, look at what the space provides. A reliable Internet connection is a must, as well as outlets for charging your phone, laptop, or other devices. You may also need access to a printer or a scanner. Most spaces also have computers you can use on-site, in lieu of your own device. There may be other amenities that are important to you as well. Is there a kitchen, with snacks and a coffee pot? Private conference rooms for meetings and presentations?

Next, consider the environment. Does the space have enough lighting? Is the temperature comfortable, or is it too hot, cold, humid, etc.? The decor and general aesthetic of the space are important too. Find a place that looks friendly and inviting.

And one of the most important aspects of coworking is the community. Who else works there regularly? Even if you're not working with them directly, you're spending a large chunk of your day with them, so it's important to be sure you feel comfortable around them and will get along well with them. Coworking can also often lead to networking opportunities, connecting with like-minded people, and helping one another. So find a community you feel comfortable in.

Other Factors

A good coworking space provides variety for different working styles. It also gives people the freedom to switch environments throughout the day, depending on their mood and their current needs. This flexibility has been shown to increase productivity.

It's also important to look at the location. Portland and Seattle have many coworking space options to choose from. Ultimately, you want to find a space that's near your house, that you can get to and from easily. The stress of a long or difficult commute can make working difficult, negatively impacting your productivity before the day even begins.

Finally, look at your budget. Look at what different coworking spaces in your area charge, whether it's per hour, per week, or per month, and compare it to how much you're willing or able to spend. How much does the cost of being in that space cut into the amount you'll earn while working there?

What they offer for the price is also important. Maybe you're willing to spend a bit more on a place that has a coffeemaker, or comfy couches. Make a list of your needs, and the amount you're willing to spend. Then, compare spaces to see which one is the best fit.

If you're looking for a home near a coworking space or a home with an office for your remote working lifestyle, our brokers can help you find the perfect option. Contact us to learn more!

Los Angeles may claim to have started the food truck craze, but Portland has truly embraced the trend. With more than 500 trucks, or "carts," as they're referred to by locals, Portland's food cart scene has drawn raves from Bon Appétit, CNN, and other national sources.

Our brokers spotlight some of their favorites among the exciting food carts found just minutes from Portland homes for sale.

• Yoshi's Sushi - Multnomah Village French Quarter, 3518 SW Multnomah Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  So you're viewing Portland homes for sale and you get a craving for sushi. What to do? Pick up the phone and call Yoshi's Sushi. Owner/chef Yoshi Ikeda shows that you don't have to go to a glitzy, upscale restaurant to get fresh, high-quality sushi. Customers rave about the nigiri, especially salmon and hotate, or scallop. Yoshi's is open Tuesday through Saturday for phone orders only, with lunch served from noon - 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. 
  
  
• Jojo - 3582 SE Powell Blvd., Portland, OR 97202
  Chicken sandwich wars are raging among fast-food outlets everywhere, and many will declare JoJo to be the clear winner. Their fried chicken sandwiches come in four different varieties, and the star is the Fried Chicken Melt. Two slices of toasted shokupan bread hold a patty topped with American and Cheddar cheeses, Crystal hot sauce, house ranch, coleslaw, and chives. Jojo is open daily from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Viking Soul Food - 4255 SE Belmont St., Portland, OR 97215
  It's called Viking Soul Food, but their Scandinavian-inspired dishes will definitely satisfy your taste buds as well. Owners Megan and Jeremy put their own spin on dishes from Megan's childhood, such as the Norwegian meatball wrap that was sampled by Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Save room for a lingonberry lefse wrap, stuffed with plump lingonberries and smooth cream cheese. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when closing time is 8:30 p.m. 
  
  
• Tierra del Sol Oaxacan Cuisine - 7238 SE Foster Rd. #1, Portland, OR 97206
  Mexico's famed street food makes it a natural fit for a food truck. Located in the lively Portland Mercado, Tierra del Sol Oaxacan Cuisine offers classic dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The showstopper is the tlayuda, a 14-inch corn tortilla piled with chicharrons, black beans, queso Oaxaca, and veggies. Meat is optional, and the tlayuda comes packaged in a pizza box. Tierra del Sol is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• MF Tasty - 3927 N. Williams Ave., Portland, OR 97227
  MF Tasty grew out of another food trend, when husband-and-wife Eric and Nicole operated a secret supper club in Phoenix, AZ. After moving to Portland, the couple opened a food cart serving "Southwest inspired, Portland made" dishes. The menu changes each week, but typical offerings include pumpkin-spiced risotto, harissa-BBQ glazed "beetloaf," and their award-winning chorizo mac & cheese. Follow them on Instagram to view the current menu. Hours are 5 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday.
  
  
• Birrieria La Plaza - 600 SE 146th Ave., Portland, OR 97233
  Hard to improve on perfection, but birria-style takes tacos to another level. Birreria La Plaza cooks the flavorful dipping consome for hours to bring out all the seasonings and spices. Owner Oracio Hernandez's secret weapon is his mother, Doña Sofia, and the recipes she learned growing up on a farm in Jalisco, Mexico. Cheese lovers go for the combo that includes one each of quesotaco, mulita, vampiro, and quesadilla. Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, and 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Stretch the Noodle - 223-269 SW Washington St., Portland, WA 97204
  A visit to Stretch the Noodle rates high on both food and entertainment factors. On most days, you can watch chef Xuemei Simard practice the esteemed art of noodle-pulling as he folds, twists, and stretches dough into delicate strands. Every dish is made to order, and well worth the wait. Try the biang-biang noodles, a wide noodle with hot oil, black vinegar, and garlic sauce, topped with a sprinkling of sesame seeds. Stretch the Noodle is open weekdays from 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  
  
• Erica's Soul Food - 803 SE 82nd Ave., Portland, ME 97216
  Authentic down-home Southern cuisine comes to Portland via Erica's Soul Food. Comfort food classics such as meatloaf, pimento cheese fries, and shrimp & grits will make you forget you're on the West Coast. Check out the Soul Bowls, mash-ups of Southern favorites like the Grandma, with meatloaf, cornbread, black-eyed peas, and cabbage. Erica's is open Wednesday through Sunday, with lunch served from noon - 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Find out why everything's coming up roses in Portland. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more.

Spanning 2,650 miles from the Mexican border in the south to the Canadian border in the north, the Pacific Crest Trail is to the West Coast what the Appalachian Trail is to the East Coast. Our brokers take a look at this iconic hiking destination that's within convenient distance of Bend homes for sale.

History of the Pacific Crest Trail

The first seeds of the Pacific Crest Trail were planted right here in Oregon. Fred Cleator, a supervisor in the U.S. Forest Service, first mapped the state's Skyline Trail in 1920 and started plans for a similar route in Washington.

At the time, the Boy Scouts, Sierra Club, and other organizations were floating various ideas for hiking trails. In 1926, Catherine Montgomery, a teacher in Bellingham, WA, became the first to propose a contiguous hiking trail through the three West Coast states. 

Mountain League of Los Angeles chairman Clinton C. Clarke was inspired to unite these groups into one cohesive effort when he organized the Pacific Crest Trail System Conference in 1932. The conference, which counted legendary nature photographer Ansel Adams among its committee members, led to Clarke becoming known as the father of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Finally, during President Lyndon B. Johnson's administration, Congress passed the National Trails System Act on October 2, 1968. In addition to setting forth the administrative framework for a nationwide system of trails, this officially named the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail as the country's first scenic trails. 

Fun Facts About the Pacific Crest Trail

• At loose ends after the death of her mother, writer Cheryl Strayed began a journey on the Pacific Crest Trail despite no previous hiking experience. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail details the highs and lows of her 1,100-mile journey. The memoir, along with the movie adapted from the book and starring Reese Witherspoon, created a spike of interest in the Pacific Crest Trail.
  
  
• Anyone hiking or horseback riding 500 miles or more in a continuous trip must obtain a permit. While there is no charge for a permit, they are issued on a first-come-first-served basis and limited by quota. Day and overnight use permits are also required in 33 places along the Pacific Crest Trail, including Crater Lake National Park, Mount Jefferson Wilderness, and Three Sisters Wilderness in Oregon.
  
  
• How long does it take to traverse the entire length of the Pacific Crest Trail? While some elite athletes have accomplished it in as little as two months, the average time is approximately five months. Expenses run anywhere from $4,000-$8,000, depending on how frugal or extravagant a hiker chooses to be.
  
  
• While no formal statistics are currently kept, the self-reported "2,600 Miler List" includes 7,936 people, 100 of whom have completed the trail more than once. The annual number peaked in 2018 when 1,185 completions were reported. Total number of permits issued for all usage has grown from 1,879 in 2013 to 7,888 in 2019.

Pacific Crest Trail Hikes Near Bend

• Experienced hikers who are up for a challenge are rewarded with spectacular views after reaching the summit of Diamond Peak, one of Oregon's Matterhorns. The 13.8-mile dog-friendly trail is described as a "scramble," which is the term for a route that's more difficult than regular hiking but not quite to the level of rock-climbing. Unlike most mountains that are relatively symmetrical, Diamond Peak has a jagged profile that's been compared to the back of a stegosaurus. 
  
  
• Twin Peaks, more familiarly known as the Twins, is a volcano that gained its name from the dual summits formed by a gap in the crater rim. This 6.7-mile dog-friendly route crosses the Pacific Crest Trail on its way to views of both Twins along with Mount Jefferson, Mount McLaughlin, and other parts of the Cascades. The real showstopper is Waldo Lake, a popular Oregon attraction that's the second-largest natural freshwater lake in the state behind Crater Lake.
  
  
• North, Middle, and South make up the Three Sisters that are the centerpiece of the eponymous Wilderness Area. Skirt the permit requirement by hiking the Scott Trail, a dog-friendly route marked by alpine meadows full of wildflowers. Along with the Three Sisters, the summit features views of Collier Glacier, the largest glacier in Oregon, situated between North and Middle Sisters.

The best part of any journey is returning to your dream home in Bend. Whether you're buying or selling a house, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for cheerful and professional help with Bend real estate.

Is it possible that Pacific Northwest scenery can get even more spectacular? While we love this area in all seasons, there's something extra special about the fall. See Washington and Oregon dressed up in their fall colors at these beautiful locations as recommended by our brokers.

• Kubota Garden - 9817 - 55th Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98118
  Two words used most often by people to describe dog-friendly Kubota Garden: "hidden gem." Namesake Fujitaro Kubota and his son Tom envisioned their property as a public space to be enjoyed by all. In 1987, the City of Seattle purchased the land to complete that mission. More than 140 varieties of Japanese maples fill the garden with brilliant fall hues, while the waterfall and fish pond add a touch of Zen. Kubota Garden is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.
  
  
• Washington Park Arboretum - 2300 Arboretum Dr. E., Seattle, WA 98112
  Set in 230 lush acres on the shores of Lake Washington, the Washington Park Arboretum offers something different with each visit. Themed gardens, such as Rhododendron Glen and Azalea Way, highlight specific plants and landscapes. Take a canoe or kayak out on Union Bay for a chance to spot hawks, owls, and other magnificent birds. Kids have fun learning about nature while they complete the fall scavenger hunt. There's no charge to visit the Arboretum, which is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. 
  
  
• Discovery Park - 3801 Discovery Park Blvd., Seattle, WA 98199
  Framed by the Olympic Mountains to the west and the Cascades in the east, Discovery Park features some of the more spectacular scenery around. At 534 acres, Discovery Park is the largest city park in Seattle, and it provides a welcome oasis to the surrounding urban hustle and bustle. Surrounded by sand dunes, cliffs, and forest groves, you'll feel like you're in another world. Park hours are 4 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Lincoln Park - 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW, Seattle, WA 98136
  Tucked inside West Seattle, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, is Lincoln Park. While it's much smaller than many of the other city parks, Lincoln Park has a wide variety of attractions that make it a favorite destination for families. Features include 4.6 miles of walking paths, 3.9 miles of biking paths, picnic shelters, and a renovated play area. Fall is a prime time for spotting orcas, seals, sea lions and porpoise out on Puget Sound. Lincoln Park is open seven days a week from 4 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
  
  
• Pittock Mansion - 3229 NW Pittock Dr., Portland, OR 97210
  In 1853, 19-year-old Henry Pittock heeded the call to "go west, young man." After moving from Pittsburgh to Portland, Henry became a successful businessman and built Pittock Mansion. Today, the stately home serves as a museum dedicated to the legacy of Henry Pittock and the story of Portland's development over the years. The 46-acre grounds include trails for viewing trees, flowers, and panoramas of the city skyline and the Cascade Mountains. Pittock Mansion is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. except for Tuesday, when doors open at noon. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 6-18.
  
  
• Hoyt Arboretum - 4000 SW Fairview Blvd., Portland, OR 97221
  When Portland purchased 189 acres of land for $10 in 1922, the property was earmarked for development. Thanks to the efforts of key supporters, the land became the home of Hoyt Arboretum. More than 2,300 different tree species from more than six continents can be seen on the grounds, which is a greater number than any other arboretum in the country. Twelve miles of hiking trails provide opportunities to view Japanese maples, redwoods, flowering dogwoods, and many rare species. Watch for hawthorne fruits, magnolia cones, and snowberries, which take center stage during fall months. Hours are 5 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily, and there is no charge for admission.
  
  
• South Park Blocks - 1436 SW Park Ave., Portland, OR 97201
  Don't have time for a day trip? Just head downtown to the South Park Blocks, a charming green space just north of Portland State University. The 12-block area was one of the city's first parks, dating back to 1852, and the tree-lined corridor is still a popular spot to enjoy a slice of nature. Mosaics, sculptures, and other artworks along the way add to the visual appeal. Park hours are 5 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.

Whether you're looking for natural or urban delights, the Pacific Northwest has it all. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for help with all your real estate needs.

As home to nearly 70 breweries, more than any other city in the world, Portland has been a vibrant part of the craft beer movement since the early 1980s. What better place to be during Oktoberfest? Our brokers raise a toast to these microbreweries throughout the Portland area. 

• Upright Brewing - 240 N. Broadway, Portland, OR 97227
  What does brewing beer have in common with composing music? According to Upright Brewing, both activities are methods of "exercising creativity and craft" in ways that defy categorization. In keeping with the musical theme, Upright Brewing designs each beer label to look like an album cover. Pair your beer with a sandwich or snack from adjoining PBS Café. Tasting room hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Ruse Brewing - 4784 SE 17th Ave., Portland, OR 97202
  The spirit of Portland runs through the DNA of Ruse Brewing. Inspired by the city's culture of creativity, founders Shaun and Devin made community support the primary element of the company's vision. Ruse Brewing teams up with local artists and musicians to create specialty brews for beer releases and other events. The cozy taproom, filled with natural light and wood accents, gives off a major Pacific Northwest vibe. Hours are 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Back Pedal Brewing - 1425 NW Flanders, Portland, OR 97209
  Back Pedal Brewing is using its space to host a pop-up from Road Beers PDX. Enjoy a beer in the taproom or place an order to go for brands from one of Road Beers' many partner breweries. The taproom is open Wednesday and Thursday from 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from noon - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Threshold Brewing & Blending - 403 SE 79th Ave., Portland, OR 97215
  Jarek and Sara Symanski, owners of Threshold Brewing & Blending, aren't content to simply brew a great beer. They love to experiment with unexpected flavor profiles. Check out the tart funk of farmhouse-style beers or the assertiveness of bourbon-forward dark beers. Be sure to go hungry and try the zapiekanka. Jared brought the unique open-faced mushroom and cheese baguette sandwich from his native Poland. Stop in with the whole family, including four-legged members, after viewing Portland homes for sale. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Culmination Brewing - 2117 NE Oregon St., Portland, OR 97232
  Culmination Brewing bridges beer's past and present with classic flavors that are updated to appeal to modern tastes. They generously promote the local beer industry by collaborating with other breweries to create some of their flavors. Miami Nice provides a food menu of vegan Cuban cuisine, such as empanadas, croquetas, and yuca fries, that's so tasty. The taproom is open 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Zoiglhaus - 5716 SE 92nd Ave., Portland, OR 97266
  The amusing and memorable name of Zoiglhaus is actually deeply rooted in German brewing tradition. Zoigl brewing dates back to the Middle Ages when towns had a communal brewhouse where people would take turns making and serving their personal beers. Fast-forward to Portland today, where Zoiglhaus aims to foster that same sense of community. Food such as Bavarian pretzels and jägerschnitzel reflects the same German influence. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. daily. 
  
  
• Breakside Brewery - 820 NE Dekum St, Portland, OR 97211
  Since opening in 2010, award-winning Breakside Brewery has grown from a modest pub to a large regional operation with five metro-area locations, as well as a sixth coming soon in Beaverton. Breakside has gained a devoted following thanks to creative flavors such as their version of the classic Black & Tan, with notes of whiskey, milk chocolate, and caramel. Two years ago, Breakside proudly became one of only a few employee-owned breweries across the country. Breakside is open seven days a week from noon - 9 p.m.

There's something new to discover every day around Portland. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more. 

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy an outdoor movie with friends, and there are a wide variety of options available to watch outdoor films in the Portland area. Many local communities make movies available for free in weekly events at popular local parks, and some even offer the classic drive-in movie experience. If you're planning to enjoy an outdoor movie, remember that it's wise to bring your own seating, along with some snacks and drinks. Our brokers have the details on 5 communities in the Portland area showing outdoor movies this summer.

Outdoor Movies Now Showing Near the Portland Area

• Rooftop Cinema at Lloyd Center – 2201 Lloyd Center, Portland, OR 97232
  Some of the usual outdoor movie events near Portland, OR homes for sale have been put on hold for summer 2021, but the Rooftop Cinema at Lloyd Center is still here to offer a movie experience unlike any other. There are different movies showing every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in August, with the schedule trimming down to every Saturday and Sunday in September. Be sure to order your tickets ahead of time because advance tickets get priority seating on movie nights.

• Lake Oswego Movies in the Park – 200 1st St., Lake Oswego, OR 97034
  Millennium Plaza Park is one of the most popular parks near Lake Oswego, OR, homes for sale, and it's also where you'll find the Movies in the Park series this summer. The next big movie on the schedule is "Moana," which will be showing on August 10. While this event is totally free to attend, registration is required. Make sure that you register beforehand and that everyone in your group is registered in order to make your experience as enjoyable as possible.

• West Linn Movies at Tanner Creek Park – 3456 Parker Rd., West Linn, OR 97068
  Enjoy a busy schedule of family-friendly movies on Wednesday nights when you attend West Linn Movies at Tanner Creek Park. August features a busy schedule of movies at Tanner Creek Park, with "Moana" showing on August 4, the classic "The Goonies" on tap for August 11, and "Toy Story 4" to wrap up the summer movies series on August 18. The movies begin shortly after dusk and are free for everyone to enjoy. Stop by after checking out West Linn homes for sale. 

• Vancouver Friday Night Movies in the Parks – New Location Every Friday
  The parks near Vancouver, WA homes for sale will be popular destinations for movie lovers all summer long, with the Friday Night Movies in the Parks series happening in a different park every weekend. Upcoming movies include "Wonder Woman 1984" at Washington School Park (August 6), "Frozen II" at Hearthwood Park (August 13), "Onward" at Bagley Community Park (August 20), and "Scoob!" at Oakbrook Park (August 27). There's no admission fee, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own seating and snacks.

• North Clackamas Drive-In Movies – 7300 SE Harmony Rd., Milwaukie, OR 97222
  Head south of Portland and get the best of both worlds by enjoying an outdoor movie from the comfort of your own car when you visit the North Clackamas Drive-In Movies series in Milwaukie. The series takes place on Saturday nights throughout the summer, with movies starting around dusk. Make sure to register ahead of time if you plan to attend this event, then get ready to enjoy movies like "Night at the Museum," which is playing on August 7 at the North Clackamas Aquatic Park.

Searching for a home close to all of the outdoor attractions and fun community events around Portland? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Portland, OR area.

Think you have what it takes to be a trivia champ in the Portland area? Grab your family and friends and join our brokers in showing off your knowledge at these great trivia nights near Portland homes for sale. 

• Schmizza Pub & Grub - 320 NW 21st Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Could there be a better name for trivia hosts than Geeks Who Drink? With a slogan of, "Useless knowledge means everything," this national company brings their British pub-style trivia show to Schmizza Pub & Grub each Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. Teams compete in seven rounds of eight questions each, with cash and other prizes for the winner. Be on your toes for bonus questions when you can score extra treats. Keep your brain cells fueled with one of Schmizza's two-dozen specialty pizzas, such as Alligator Pie, topped with alligator sausage, red peppers, onions, tomatoes, and feta. Regular hours are 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 8 p.m.
  
  
• Chill N Fill - 5215 N. Lombard St., Portland, OR 97203
  Looking for a place to unwind after a long day of work? With its casual decor and relaxing ambiance, Chill N Fill has created a classic neighborhood gathering spot. You're sure to find a favorite beverage from more than 30 rotating taps of craft beer, wine, cider, and kombucha. If that's not enough, Chill N Fill also carries a wide selection of local bottled beer, wine, and cider. Stop in Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. for team trivia hosted by Rain Brain, an award-winning local quizmaster. Get a head start and test yourself with sample questions on Rain Brain's website. Don't forget to fill your growler before you head home! Regular hours are noon - 11 p.m., seven days a week. 
  
  
• Rose City Book Pub - 1329 NE Fremont St., Portland, OR 97212
  Whether you want to socialize or just curl up with a good book, Rose City Book Pub has you covered. This cozy shop combines the best qualities of a bookstore with a European-style bistro, serving appetizers and light meals along with beer and wine. In addition to interactive Zoom trivia on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., Rose City Book Pub hosts author readings, live music, and various cultural events. Regular hours are noon - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• The Old Barn - 9656 SW Barbur Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  You won't find any live animals or haystacks, but The Old Barn is definitely a comfy place to kick back with friends. Watch the game on one of 20 TVs or try your hand at video poker. Seafood lovers flock to The Old Barn on the second Friday of each month for Dungeness Crab Day, with a menu showcasing the iconic Pacific Northwest shellfish. Wednesday night trivia at 6:30 p.m. is hosted by Last Call. Sign up for their newsletter to get a list of answers to random questions that may or may not turn up at The Old Barn. Regular hours are 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 a.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 2:30 a.m. weekends.
  
  
• Jolly Roger - 5627 SW Kelly St., Portland, OR 97239
  Nestled in the venerable John's Landing neighborhood, Jolly Roger was originally Stanich's West until Rob and Starr Jackson purchased and remodeled the restaurant in 2008, reopening under its current name. According to their slogan, "No one has more fun than we do," and that's especially true during Wednesday night trivia at 8 p.m. Local quizmaster Bridgetown Trivia is the host, and with teams of as many as 35 players allowed, the proceeding can get rambunctious. Bridgetown uses a variety of question styles, including puzzles, pictures, music, and fill-in-the-blank. Regular hours are 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily except Sunday when closing time is 10 p.m.
  
  
• Cascadia Tap House - 13619 NW Cornell Rd., Portland, OR 97229
  Stumptown Trivia, the newest player on the Portland quizmaster scene, has gained fans with their lively trivia nights. You'll find them at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month at Cascadia Tap House. Raffle prizes give you additional chances to win. Sip on one of the many local and regional craft beers, wines, and ciders available at Cascadia as you nibble on chips and salsa, artisan pretzels, and other favorite bar snacks. You're also welcome to bring in food from one of the restaurants around the mall. Regular hours are 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Buying or selling a home in Portland is no trivial pursuit. When you need the right answers, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain.

Portland regularly ranks among the most beautiful cities in the United States, in large part thanks to its incredible natural scenery. What better place to celebrate Nature Photography Day on Tuesday, June 15? Our real estate agents will be taking their cameras to these stunning parks that are just minutes from Portland homes for sale.

• Leach Botanical Garden - 6704 SE 122nd Ave., Portland, OR 97236
  Called Portland's "little jewel," Leach Botanical Garden is named after the couple who bequeathed their property to the city. Lilla Leach, an award-winning botanist, wanted their beloved home to live on as a garden and museum. The 16-acre grounds, once known as "Sleepy Hollow," are full of stunning flowers, trees, and plants that make for amazing photo opportunities. Admission is free, although donations are welcome, but tickets must be reserved in advance. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
  
  
• Peninsula Park - 700 N. Rosa Parks Way, Portland, OR 97217
  Peninsula Park has a colorful past as the site of a roadhouse and horse-racing track. After the grounds were purchased by the city in 1909, architects designed the park in conjunction with Portland's "City Beautiful" movement. Many of the original features, including the century-old fountain that forms the pet-friendly park's centerpiece, remain. Peninsula Park is open daily from 5 a.m. - midnight.
  
  
• Mt. Tabor Park - SE 60th Ave. & Salmon St., Portland, OR 97215
  When it comes to urban landscapes, volcanoes don't often come to mind. Portland is one of a handful of cities that include an extinct volcano within their limits, and this cinder cone is the basis for Mt. Tabor Park. A number of paved and unpaved trails wind through forests and meadows and, alongside former reservoirs, turned reflecting pools. Make it to the top, and you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding lands. There's also an off-leash area where Fido can get some exercise. Park hours are 5 a.m. - midnight, seven days a week.
  
  
• Waterfront Park - 98 SW Naito Pkwy., Portland, OR 97204
  If you're looking for photogenic scenes of nature, how could you go wrong with a place called Waterfront Park? At one time, developments such as Harbor Drive cut city residents off from the Willamette River. In the late 60s, Governor Tom McCall spearheaded the creation of Waterfront Park, which now officially bears his name. While they don't technically count as nature, the bridges along the waterfront are a popular draw for visitors. Waterfront Park is open daily from 5 a.m. - midnight.
  
  
• Lan Su Chinese Garden - 239 NW Everett St., Portland, OR 97209
  Mother Nature makes her presence known throughout the world. Enjoy a unique international perspective at Lan Su Chinese Garden, a collaborative effort between Portland and Suzhou, its sister city in China. In addition to combining elements from the names of both cities, Lan Su translates to "Garden of Awakening Orchids." Heavily influenced by Chinese traditions dating back two centuries, the garden is a harmonious blend of art, architecture, and nature. Kids will have fun with interactive scavenger hunts, photo challenges, and quizzes. Enhance your visit with the mobile app that provides facts about Lan Su's history and culture. Admission is $12.95 for adults and $9.95 for kids between 6-18. Lan Su is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. every day but Wednesday.
  
  
• Washington Park - 400 SW Kingston Ave., Portland, OR 97210
  Can't get enough of Portland's iconic roses? Head to Washington Park, home of the city's International Rose Test Garden. The breathtaking display comprises more than 10,000 rose bushes, representing more than 610 different varieties. In 2006, the IRTG received the prestigious Garden of Excellence Award from the World Federation of Rose Societies. Don't miss the Frank Beach Memorial Fountain, honoring the man credited with coining the nickname "City of Roses." Hours are 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily, with free public tours conducted at 1 p.m. each day between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
  
  
• Pittock Mansion - 3229 NW Pittock Dr., Portland, OR 97210
  Built in 1914 as the home of Portland's first "power couple," Pittock Mansion is a fascinating look at the city's transformation over the years, but the 46 acres of grounds around the estate are worth the trip by themselves. Hikers flock to the trails and their remarkable vistas of the Portland skyline from high up in the West Hills. The Pittock Mansion grounds are maintained as a public park open until 9 p.m. daily.

Portland is the quintessential Pacific Northwest city with a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for experienced help with all your local real estate needs.

The weather is warming up, and the kids are bouncing off the walls. Wondering what to do with them? How about a fun, family-friendly round of miniature golf? 

There are many great indoor and outdoor courses in the Portland area to enjoy a round of mini golf! To help you prepare for summer, we asked our brokers which courses their families enjoy the most. Here are their recommendations. 

1. Glowing Greens: 509 SW Taylor St., Portland, OR 97204
   Want to get out of the house right now? You don't have to wait for great weather to enjoy a round of mini golf at Glowing Greens. This indoor blacklight course is conveniently located in downtown Portland, not far from some of the best Portland homes for sale. The 13-hole course is appropriate for all ages and features 3D artwork, moving pirates, and more! It takes about 45-minutes to play through the course, making it the perfect family adventure or a great way to start off date night. If you're looking for a fun night out for the adults, you'll be glad to know the facility also has ax throwing, escape rooms, and a beer and wine pub!
   
   
2. Laser Blasters: 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr., Suite 172 Vancouver, WA 98662
   While you're in the area looking at Vancouver homes for sale, you're sure to notice the Vancouver Mall where you'll find Laser Blasters. This fun location offers laser tag, virtual reality, escape rooms, and mini golf. Both adults and kids are sure to love the cool blacklight effects of this safari-themed, 14-hole mini golf course. You can also purchase combination tickets that allow you to play both mini golf and laser tag for one affordable price. 
   
   
3. Chipper's Woods Miniature Golf: 7805 SE Oaks Park Way, Portland, OR 97202
   The Oaks Park Amusement Park offers locals and visitors various rides, midway games, and mini golf. While it's a ton of fun to visit the entire park, you can also enjoy the Chipper's Woods miniature golf course on its own. The whole family is sure to enjoy playing an 18-hole round of mini golf under the oak trees. The course also offers incredible views of Portland's West Hills and the Willametter River. 
   
   
4. Clutch Putt: 700 SE 122nd Ave., Portland, OR 97233
   Adults and families alike enjoy visiting Clutch Putt Mini Golf. This 18-hole mini golf course is quite simple, yet each hole is unique enough to keep things interesting. It offers a fun, friendly atmosphere for players of all ages. Since the course is covered, you can play rain or shine. They also serve beer, wine, and hard cider and have a food cart. 
   
   
5. Hollywood Mini Golf: 1510 Northeast 37th Ave., Portland, OR 97232
   Part mini golf course and part art gallery, Hollywood Mini Golf provides an exciting experience you're sure to love! This course "challenges guests to see things through a different lens." You never know what you're going to find when you visit this super-unique indoor course. In addition to mini golf, they also have games like ping pong, pinball, foosball, cornhole, and more. This is the perfect location for a rainy-day adventure that's sure to keep everyone entertained!
   
   
6. Eagle's Landing: 10220 SE Causey Ave., Happy Valley, OR 97086
   Whether you're looking for a great mini golf course or 27 holes of the real thing, you'll find it at Eagle's Landing. This golfing facility is geared towards players of all skill levels. The 36-hole mini golf course is equal parts fun and challenging. You'll love the scenic views and the holes that strategically curve in and out of mountains, trees, waterfalls, fountains, and more. The facility also offers a par-three course that's modeled after a European pitch and put course and a 9-hole soccer golf course. When you're done playing, we suggest taking the scenic route home. There are many beautiful Happy Valley homes for sale nearby, and you may find the perfect one for you and your family. 

If you're looking for a family-friendly place to call home, the Portland area is perfect for you! There are many great homes for sale, and our experienced brokers would love to help you find your dream home. Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started! 

Portland maintains an impressive Walk Score year after year, meaning it's convenient for residents to ditch the car when it's time to run errands or head out the park. Portland is full of quirky-cool neighborhoods that are just steps away from shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations. The streets are lined with pristine sidewalks and flourishing trees that make it easy to explore on foot the sights, sounds, and tastes available in Portland. To get a sense of which Portland neighborhoods offer the best pedestrian experience, our brokers have rounded up the ones with the highest ratings on Walk Score.

1. Peal District – Walk Score 98
   Once an area occupied by railroad yards, industrial buildings, and warehouses, the Peal District has been transformed into an award-winning example of urban renewal. This upscale neighborhood boasts the highest walk score in Portland. The area is full of crosswalks and bustling streets lined with locally owned boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, and unique home stores. The Pearl District is also home to Powell's Books, the largest used book store in the country. You'll find various living spaces, from newly constructed condos to funky warehouses that have been renovated to accommodate modern living.
   
   
2. Downtown – Walk Score 97
   The second most walkable neighborhood is Downtown Portland, the center of the city and home to Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) and Portland State University. Downtown has an energetic vibe with an abundance of places to explore. In fact, many residents live just steps from their workplaces. You won't find many single-family homes in Downtown Portland. It's mostly loft-style condos, traditional apartments, and new construction condos.
   
   
3. Old Town – Walk Score 96
   Also known as Chinatown, Old Town is the Downtown neighborhood's next-door neighbor and the oldest neighborhood in Portland. It's home to the lovely Lan Su Chinese Garden and the first location of the popular Voodoo Doughnut. It also has an array of beautiful historical architecture and hosts the iconic Portland Oregon sign. And there's plenty to do, with shopping, dining, and entertainment options, either directly in the neighborhood or a few blocks away. When you include a Bike Score of 98, a Walk Score of 95, and a Transit Score of 92, Old Chinatown offers many ways to explore the city.
   
   
4. Hollywood – Walk Score 94
   This well-established Portland neighborhood is known for having all your necessary conveniences just a few steps away. It was named after the Hollywood Theatre, which is located in the center of the neighborhood. Bungalows and craftsman homes surround the many businesses, including grocery stores, shops, restaurants, and boutiques grouped together in the center of the neighborhood. Residents enjoy convenient access to Hollywood Farmer's Market, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe's, located just off Sandy Boulevard, the district's main arterial road.
   
   
5. Goose Hollow –Walk Score 93
   Located on the east side of Downtown, Goose Hollow boasts a unique mix of historic and modern. It's filled with turn-of-the-century architecture and is one of Portland's best communities for a tour of history. In addition to great dining and shopping options, this neighborhood also has scenic spots and entertainment for the whole family, including the Oregon Zoo and Washington Park. Goose Hollow is a great place for first-time buyers looking for a more affordable alternative to neighborhoods like Downtown and the Pearl.
   
   
6. Northwest District – Walk Score 93
   This popular Portland neighborhood provides an ideal location for commuters. Situated northwest of downtown, the vibrant Northwest District has an abundance of attractions, including shops, restaurants, a renowned ice cream chain, and an urban forest reserve, within walking distance. All year long, locals and visitors line up at Salt & Straw for a taste of some local homemade ice cream. There's a slew of fantastic shopping options along 23rd Street, but if you want to escape city life, head to Forrest Park for verdant views. 
   
   
7. Boise – Walk Score 92
   This quaint neighborhood in North Portland has become an in-demand area. Activity in Boise centers on Mississippi Street, a trendy tree-lined street with local eateries, shops, breweries, bars, boutiques, and more. Close to Williams Avenue, you'll find a combination of new condominiums, sparkling apartments, and historic homes boasting character and attractive curb appeal. Boise has the Portland funky vibe, but the streets are lined with beautiful trees, sidewalks, and well-maintained landscaping that provide a picturesque setting for your stroll.
   
   
8. Sunnyside – Walk Score 91
   Sunnyside is essentially comprised of two smaller neighborhoods: Belmont and Hawthorne. Belmont is known for its hipster, boutique-y vibe, while Hawthorne, also known as Funky Hawthorne, has various vintage stores. Hawthorne Street and Belmont Street get lots of traffic as residents and visitors pop in and out of local coffee shops, boutiques, restaurants, markets, and other specialty stores, which are within walking distance from anywhere in Sunnyside. The neighborhood is also close to Mt. Tabor Park, featuring miles of hiking trails.

Looking for Portland homes for sale? We would love to help you find your dream home among Portland's walkable neighborhoods. Contact us for more information on real estate in Portland.

Portland homes for sale have a lot going for them! World-class shopping and dining, a diverse economy, and unmistakable local culture will have you exploring the city for years to come. But everyone needs to take some time out in nature, too – and the opportunities around Portland are abundant.

Our brokers want to make sure you know all about them!

Portland is the heart of the Pacific Northwest. No matter what outdoor activities interest you, you are in good company. Hiking, biking, backpacking, and fishing are all well-loved by the local community. The chance to see mountain and forest settings alike draws visitors from all over.

Portland residents are looking for weekend getaways in the great outdoors. State and national parks beckon within a short drive. You can choose a new one every weekend and still have plenty to explore!

Here are a few of the outstanding local sites for your next outdoor excursion:

1. Portland Fairview RV Park – 21401 Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Fairview, OR 97024
   An RV adventure can make for a truly unique camping experience. Portland Fairview RV Park is one of the top RV parks in the region. It welcomes day-trippers as well as weekly and monthly residents. Just eight miles east of Portland, it offers a pristine respite along ancient evergreens and a babbling brook. A fitness center and pool round out the amenities.
   
   
2. Jantzen Beach RV Resort – 1503 North Hayden Island Drive, Portland, OR 97217
   Another premium RV park right here in your Portland neighborhood, Jantzen Beach RV Resort distinguishes itself with its exceptional customer service. Amenities for all ages include a basketball court, game room, playgrounds, fully stocked clubhouse, a heated pool, and a fitness center. It's pet-friendly, so the four-footed members of the family can join in on all the fun.
   
   
3. Mt. Hood National Forest – 16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055
   Just 20 miles east of Portland, Mt. Hood National Forest is without a doubt one of the truly iconic natural features of both Oregon and Washington state. With more than 1 million acres of remarkable land around Oregon's highest peak, it has all manner of camping: From primitive backcountry sites to tents, cabins, and even day-use sites around Mt. Hood proper.
   
   
4. The Cove (Timothy Lake) Campground at Mt. Hood – See Website for Precise Directions
   The Cove is a popular campground complete with an outdoor amphitheater. Visitors seek it for picnicking, swimming, fishing, and as a base for long-haul hikes. It sits right on the serene Lake Timothy, with boat ramps available at campgrounds all around the area. Trout are stocked in the lake several times a year, and anglers have landed some record rainbow trout.
   
   
5. Triangle Lake Horse Camp at Mt. Hood – See Website for Precise Directions
   If your horse likes to camp as much as you do, Triangle Lake Horse Camp is the place for you to be. Beautiful Triangle Lake is the setting for this hilly, horse-friendly locale, with eight sites available throughout the season. Picnic tables are available and campfires are permitted, but the "mane" attraction is the opportunity to visit with your horse.
   
   
6. Bonney Crossing Campground at Mt. Hood – See Website for Precise Directions
   At the foot of the Badger Creek Wilderness, Bonney Crossing Campground is the place for a "bonny" good time in a captivating landscape. It is frequented by hikers going to Badger Creek Trail, anglers, and equestrians. Badger Creek itself is known for a staggering amount of trout and strong kokanee fishing throughout most of the year.
   
   
7. McNeil Campground at Mt. Hood – See Website for Precise Directions
   McNeil Campground is one of the standout sites around Mt. Hood. Visitors praise its location along the scenic Sandy River, as well as its size: With 34 spots, there's usually plenty of room, even though it doesn't take reservations. It stands at the crossroads of many hiking trails. Coho salmon, steelhead, and chinook are just a few local fish that can be your "catch of the day."

These may be popular picks, but there's always more to discover here in the Portland area. With Coldwell Banker Bain, you can get the expert advice you need. To learn more about local real estate opportunities, contact us today.

It's springtime in Portland, and life is good. There are countless reasons why our brokers are always excited about spring's return, but one of the biggest reasons is the unbeatable farm-fresh produce. 

Oregon is home to some of America's greatest and most diverse growers. You can find their crops every week at these Portland area farm stands and farmers markets. Check them out, and enjoy some fine spring weather while you're out there!

1. Bella Organic Farm - 16205 NW Gillihan Rd, Portland, OR 97231
   One of Portland's largest farms, Bella Organic Farm, offers everything from fresh vegetables at their farm stand to you-pick apples and berries. They even have their own winery and cider mill in-house. Although popular in fall for their pumpkin patch and corn maze, the farm has fresh offerings year-round, with dozens of crops that change with the seasons. The farm is located on Sauvie Island, just minutes from many Portland homes for sale. 
   
   
2. Portland Farmers Market at PSU - 1803 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97201
   The Portland Farmers Market has grown to include six markets at different locations on different days, but their flagship market at Portland State University is still arguably the favorite. It's been going strong every Saturday, year-round, since 1992. There may be no better place in Portland to find farm-fresh produce, along with local goods of all kinds. More than 100 vendors bring everything from locally cured cheeses and fresh-baked bread to handmade crafts and local honey and jams. 
   
   
3. Side Yard Farm and Kitchen - 4800 NE Simpson St, Portland, OR 97218
   Established in 2009, Side Yard Farm and Kitchen is a 1-acre urban farm, music venue, supper club, and catering business in Portland's NE Cully Neighborhood. They offer online and in-person markets where you can pick out your produce, as well as a "Garden Start" CSA subscription, which includes a selection of seedlings you can start in your own garden every month. Pick-up is every Wednesday and Friday. 
   
   
4. Fox + Bear Urban Farm - 10524 NE Morris St, Portland, OR 97220
   A small farm with a mission to help bring a closeness and connection with the earth to city folk of Portland, Fox + Bear Urban Farm grows hand-tended, organic produce in small batches. Available in the form of CSAs and occasionally through local markets, their produce is always of the highest quality, and the care that goes into growing it is plain to see. 
   
   
5. Topaz Farm - 17100 NW Sauvie Island Rd, Portland, OR 97231
   Formerly known as Kruger's Farm, Topaz Farm is a 130-acre family farm on Sauvie Island that grows organic, no-spray produce. You can browse their fruits and veggies at their farm stand, along with offerings from other nearby farms. The crops change with the seasons, so there's always something new and fresh to get excited about. Topaz Farm also hosts live concerts and farm-to-plate dinners throughout the warmer months. 
   
   
6. Hollywood Farmers Market - 4420 NE Hancock St, Portland, OR 97213
   Offering produce and other local goods from farmers throughout the region, the Hollywood Farmers Market is a staple of Portland's Hollywood Neighborhood. And while you can certainly find an abundance of fruits and vegetables hare, their ever-changing lineup of vendors also includes everything from local bakers, brewers, and distillers to fishers, coffee roasters, and growers of all kinds. The market takes place on the first and third Saturdays of every month, year-round. 
   
   
7. Coquine - 6839 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97215
   A beloved neighborhood restaurant in Southeast Portland's Mt. Tabor area, Coquine came up with some cool new ideas when indoor dining went away in 2020. Using the connections they had already developed with local farmers, they started putting together CSA-inspired farm boxes for their customers. It was a big hit. You can craft your own box using the form on their website, choosing among many fresh vegetables, eggs, meat, dairy products, and numerous other offerings. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Portland area. From freshly grown goodies to wild scenery and unique culture, it's a truly special place to call home. Our team is dedicated to helping you find your dream home in the Portland area. 

Sunday, March 14th is Pi Day, the annual celebration of the mathematical constant. While you could solve some math equations to celebrate, another option is to enjoy a slice of the dessert that shares its name. 

Our real estate agents are in favor of the second option. If you agree, you might see us at one of these awesome bakeries and pie shops in the Portland area on March 14th!

1. The Pie Spot - 521 NE 24th Ave, Portland, OR 97232
   The folks at The Pie Spot got their start selling pies at local Portland street fairs and farmers markets in 2009, and their tasty offerings took off in a big way. They now have two brick-and-mortar locations in the city, including this 24th Ave. hot spot just minutes from many Portland homes for sale. They offer amazing pies, both sweet and savory, specializing in meal-sized hand pies and seasonal specialties like brown butter pecan, blueberry ginger, and brandy apple crumble.
   
   
2. Pacific Pie Company - 1520 SE 7th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
   Have you had Australian pasties? They're tasty, savory hand-held pies that might contain any number of fillings, and man, are they good. Pacific Pie Company is Portland's leading purveyor of these savory Down-Under favorites, and they offer options for every meal. Go ahead and grab a green chili, egg, cheddar, potato pasty for breakfast, or maybe a spinach and feta pasty for lunch. Better yet, get both, and follow it up with a beef and mushroom stout pasty for dinner. Yum.
   
   
3. Petunia's Pies & Pastries - 610 SW 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97205
   Try to rid yourself of any preconceived notions you might have about vegan and gluten-free baked goods. At Petunia's Pastries, everything on the menu is vegan and gluten-free. And you know what? If they didn't tell you ahead of time, you would never know. Everything in this hip, adorable bakery is absolutely delicious, from the breakfast pastries to the cheesecake. And, of course, the pies or to die for. Their menu rotates seasonally, but rest assured, they always have multiple pie flavors on deck, and you can't go wrong. 
   
   
4. Lauretta Jean's - 3402 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
   You'll find every dessert under the sun at Lauretta Jean's, but the pies are, without a doubt, the stars of the show. Bourbon pecan, key lime, heirloom apple, chocolate cream, tart cherry—you name it. They're known around town for having the butteriest, flakiest, most delicious crusts around. Plus, they serve breakfast, lunch, coffee, beer, and wine. What else could one possibly need?
   
   
5. Sizzle Pie - 624 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
   The pizza is definitely a type of pie. Maybe the best type of pie. And as it happens, Sizzle Pie has become Portland's favorite spot for pizza, so much so that they've grown to include half a dozen locations throughout the city. The downtown spot on Burnside is still our favorite, though, and whether you're looking for a whole pie or a quick slice, you're sure to be satisfied. Sizzle Pie is also famous for making one of the best vegan pizza pies around. 
   
   
6. Wilde Pies - 2036 S Vermont St, Portland, OR 97219
   Every pie is unique at Wilde Pies. Every pie is custom-made from scratch and either readied for pickup or delivered right to your door. They offer plenty of classic pies available year-round, like apple, pecan, lemon meringue, coconut cream, and pumpkin. But others—like strawberry rhubarb, cranberry gingersnap, and fresh peach—are made using local, seasonal ingredients, so get them while you can! Vegan, gluten-free, and Keto-friendly options are available, and special requests are welcome. 
   
   
7. Baker & Spice - 6330 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR 97239
   Founded in 1998, Baker & Spice is one of Portland's best bakeries, hands down. They make pies of practically any kind you could think of, including sweet pies, savory pies, hand pies, full-size pies, and specialty pies for any holiday or occasion. Of course, if you prefer to order an entire pie and take it home with you, you could hardly be blamed. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Portland. It's truly a one-of-a-kind place to call home, and our team is ready to answer any questions you may have about finding your dream home in the Portland area. 

Are you one of the more than 100 million people in the United States who own either a dog or a cat? More and more, pet owners are thinking about their furry friends when planning home renovations, and it's easier than ever to incorporate pet-friendly features as part of larger renovation projects in your home. And it's not just your pets who benefit! Many of the most popular pet-friendly renovations can also save floor space, help keep your home cleaner, and enhance the look of some of the most frequently used rooms in your home. Our brokers have the details on some popular pet-friendly features that you can incorporate into your next home renovation project.

1. Add Feeding Stations and Storage for Pet Items When Updating Your Kitchen
   Thinking of updating your kitchen cabinets or adding an island for increased counter and storage space? Consider incorporating a pet feeding station into your design plan. A feeding station makes it easier to keep your kitchen clean and keeps you from accidentally kicking pet bowls when walking through the kitchen. Make sure to incorporate some extra storage space near the feeding station to store food and other items for your pet. In addition to keeping things clean, built-in feeding stations will also save floor space in your kitchen.

2. Pet Bathing Stations Make Bath Time a Breeze
   Bathing pets can be a real challenge, especially if you have a large dog or an older pet. Many homeowners are now incorporating pet bathing stations, with bathrooms and mudrooms the most popular places to put them. You can create a smaller bathing station specifically for your pet, with a spray nozzle and plenty of room for bathing supplies. If you don't want to add a dedicated bathing station while renovating your bathroom, consider a walk-in shower with a handheld showerhead to make it easier to keep your pet clean.

3. A Mudroom Is a Great Choice for Pets and Kids Alike
   When shopping available homes for sale, you may have noticed an extra room in some homes near the foyer or the door that opens to the home's backyard. Commonly known as mudrooms, these rooms are ideal for cleaning off muddy paws and shoes without tracking dirt through the rest of the home. A mudroom is also a great place to keep the supplies that you'll need to take your pet for a walk and the toys that your pet loves to play with when they are in the yard. A mudroom can be as small or large as you like. The key is simply to build your mudroom near the door that pets (and kids) will use most when coming into the house from outside.

4. Cat Highways Are a Perfect Addition for Your Feline Friend
   Cats love to climb, so adding a "cat highway" is a great way to encourage your feline friends to play and get some extra exercise. You can buy a cat highway that's ready to install from your favorite pet supply store or create something new yourself. The key is simply to give your cat safe, sturdy spaces to climb around the house. By keeping the bulk of your cat highway above eye level, you also save floor and wall space that can be used for other needs.

5. Add Ramps on Outdoor Stairs to Help Older Pets
   Many older dogs, especially if they are larger breeds, can have trouble getting up and down the stairs that lead into your home. Even for younger dogs and smaller breeds, limiting how much they use stairs can help save wear and tear on joints. Adding a ramp to outdoor stairs is a simple solution that can help with the health of your dogs, and it's easy to incorporate a ramp when you're updating your deck or patio. Even if you're not undertaking a larger renovation project, it shouldn't be too difficult to add a ramp to your existing stairs.

6. Create Dedicated Sleeping Spaces for Pets
   Every pet should have its own space for sleeping, but pet beds and crates take up valuable floor space. They're also not always the most pleasant thing to look at aesthetically. Just like with feeding stations, you can incorporate built-in pet beds into a wide variety of home renovation projects. You can even put them in multiple rooms! Create a stylish, cozy place for your pet to sleep, and save some space in the process.

Still searching for a home that both you and your pets will love to call your own? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

When most people think of American history, the East Coast gets most of the spotlight. But that's not the only area in the country where you can see beautiful historic buildings. Our brokers love The City of Roses, not only because it has a culture blooming with innovation, but that its rich history is so well preserved and celebrated. Walking around some areas of Portland provides an exceptional glimpse into the past, especially when strolling through the historic district of Irvington.

Historic Irvington

Irvington only recently received placement on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. This sprawling area includes over 2,800 structures in Portland's largest historic district. A massive wave of new construction occurred just after the 1905 Louis and Clark Centennial Exposition. More than half of all structures built between the turn of the century and 1970 have wooden exteriors made from local timber. The rate of growth increased as the decades passed: 14 percent of Irvington was completed in the first decade, 25 percent during the 1910s, and 40 percent during the '20s.

Although nearly 3,000 buildings were constructed, only 2 percent of them are used for public or commercial use, such as churches and schools. The remaining 98 percent are all homes. Most of these homes have federally protected characteristics, ensuring that the district's charm is not sacrificed for a more modern aesthetic. This includes the protection of structures from unnecessary demolition and development. Plus, there's a prioritization of environmental-friendly practices within historic districts. Many of these buildings are "green" even in their maintenance, and mature trees have a smaller chance of being removed due to construction needs.

What to do in Irvington

Whether you're a local or just visiting, a stop in Irvington is always a great way to spend the day in Portland. Here are a few of our favorite places in and around the Irvington historic district:

• Irving Park — 707 NE Fremont St., Portland, OR 97212
  A lovely green space to the north of Irvington, Irving Park is a 16-acre century-old park perfect for a mid-afternoon picnic.
  
  
• TwentySix Café — 2723 NE 7th Ave., Portland, OR 97212
  Fuel up with morning coffee, wind down with a cocktail, or enjoy a few small plates for lunch at the artsy TwentySix Café.
  
  
• Irvington Tennis Club — 2131 NE Thompson St., Portland, OR 97212
  If you love tennis, the Irvington Tennis Club has four indoor and two outdoor courts to get a match going.
  
  
• Zama Massage Spa — 2149 NE Broadway, Portland, OR 97232
  Pamper yourself with relaxation at the Zama Massage Spa with a menu of full-body treatments like massages and pedicures.
  
  
• The Wishing Tree — 2954 NE 7th Ave., Portland, OR 97212
  View wishes others have made or make your own by attaching your heart's desire to this wonderful Wishing Tree.
  
  
• Portland Story Theatre — 3333 NE 15th Ave., Portland, OR 97212
  Settle in for a riveting performance at Portland Story Theatre, a nonprofit hosting local productions.

So Much More History to Explore in Portland

Irving is far from the only historic district in Portland. In fact, there are nearly two dozen other locations deemed historic districts, including:

• Alphabet
• East Portland, Grand Avenue
• Halprin Open Space Sequence
• Kenton Commercial
• King's Hill
• Ladd's Addition
• Laurelhurst
• Mount Tabor Parks
• Mount Tabor Reservoirs
• New Chinatown, Japantown
• Peacock Lane
• Rocky Butte Scenic Drive
• Skidmore Fountain/Old Town
• South Portland
• 13th Avenue
• Washington Park Reservoirs
• Willamette National Cemetery
• Yamhill

Portland is also home to six conservation districts: Eliot, Kenton, Mississippi Avenue, Piedmont, Russel Street, and Woodlawn. With so much diverse history throughout Portland, you can spend years uncovering fascinating places, interesting figures from the past, and impressive landmarks that once helped mold this city into an icon of the Pacific Northwest.

Would you love to call Portland home? Then we would love to help you! Contact us today to schedule tours of our Portland homes for sale throughout Irvington and other historic districts.

Our brokers are hard at work this holiday season, helping motivated buyers in the Portland area find the homes they want. But everyone should slow down during the holidays and spend time with loved ones – and often, searching for the ideal holiday gifts is a part of the enjoyment.

Here's a holiday tip: Board games are having a renaissance!

Yes, with more people spending time indoors, board games are a fun and fast-paced alternative to a computer or video games that everyone can take part in. And there truly are games for everyone, from children of all ages to adults looking for a more sophisticated experience.

While some games only get played once or twice, others have real staying power. They can even form the backbone of a new family tradition. If you're hungry for something new on game night, you're in luck: The Portland area is replete with shops where you can explore board games, card games, and RPGs.

Let's take a look at some of the most popular places to buy and play games:

1. Versus Board Games – 12551 Southwest Main Street, Tigard, OR 97223
   Tigard homes for sale are some of the best around, and Versus Board Games is just one of the many delightful reasons why. Here, you'll be swept into a veritable wonderland of board games, Lego sets, Dungeons & Dragons, 2D and 3D puzzles, graphic novels, and toys. Versus maintains plenty of used games in great condition so that you can start your collection off right at an affordable price.
   
   
2. Finnegan's Toys & Gifts – 820 Southwest Washington Street, Portland, OR 97205
   Found a short walk from some of the top dining and shopping in Portland, Finnegan's Toys & Gifts is conveniently situated in the Stevens Building. It dazzles visitors with a wondrous assortment of classic toys for all ages and interests. In addition to a full selection of board games and puzzles, you'll also find activity books, art supplies, cars and trucks, dolls, costumes, and STEM toys.
   
   
3. OC Geeks & Games – 1656 C Beavercreek Road, Oregon City, OR 97045
   Located in the Southridge Shopping Center, OC Geeks & Games calls itself "the Home of Tabletop Gaming in Oregon City." Dedicated to board games, collectible card games, role-playing games, and miniatures, it is more than just a store. Its goal is to build a vibrant and inclusive gaming community for players of all ages. Free Family Board Gaming Day takes place regularly. All this and it's convenient to Oregon City homes for sale, too.
   
   
4. Cloud Cap Games – 1226 Southeast Lexington Street, Portland, OR 97202
   Not far from Portland homes for sale is Cloud Cap Games, the perfect place to get a running start learning some of the most popular games around. It rents board games and holds lessons in playing Magic: The Gathering or the Pokemon collectible card game. The staff will be glad to introduce you to party games, family-friendly games, or whatever else your heart desires.
   
   
5. The Portland Game Store – 922 North Killingsworth Street, Portland, OR 97217
   The Portland Game Store boasts a slew of traditional board games as well as mind-bending challenges like Warhammer (40,000 and Fantasy), Blood Bowl, Crisis Protocol, and Malifaux. It also has 80 board game titles for rent, just right for enjoying a marathon week of family entertainment. Magic: The Gathering aficionados should look at the buy list to trade in their old cards for cash.
   
   
6. Red Castle Games – 7160 Southeast Foster Road, Portland, OR 9720
   Red Castle Games provides a formidable library of games and plenty of rare and in-demand singles for collectible card decks. Locals can enjoy next-day delivery on their orders or get walk-up curbside service. The Red Castle Games staff also teach teamwork, empathy, and storytelling for students aged to up 17 years old with their online-only D&D Academy.
   
   
7. Guardian Games – 345 Southeast Taylor Street, Portland, OR 97214
   Guardian Games will spark your imagination with its array of fun and creative games. Taking its stock from the best publishers, including independent game creators, its range of games is one of the biggest in Portland. Collectible card game tournaments are held monthly, and shoppers are encouraged to try games out. There's even space to work on your miniatures or convene your role-playing group.

With a vibrant culture, strong economy, and some of the best dining and shopping, the Portland area is a place you'll be happy to call home. To find out more or get started, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain.

Did you know that National Go to an Art Museum Day takes place every year on November 9th? Thousands of art museums around the world participate in this special day, and every year features a different, unique theme. The Portland area has long shown strong support for local artists, with a huge selection of local art galleries that showcase talented artists from Portland and beyond. Now is a great time to visit some of Portland's best art galleries and museums. Our brokers have the details on 6 amazing places to view art around Portland for National Go to an Art Museum Day this year.

1. Pearsons Art Gallery – 20890 S Hwy. 99E, Portland, OR 97045

   Start your tour of art galleries near Portland homes for sale with a trip to Pearsons Art Gallery, which features a truly unique collection of art that you won't find anywhere else. Pearsons Art Gallery is all about wood carvings, statues, sculptures, centerpieces, and so much more to decorate your home. If you're looking for a custom-made piece of art that you'll be proud to display in your home, this is a great place to visit. There are tons of pieces available pre-made in the gallery, and the owner (and artist) can also create custom pieces to suit your needs.

2. Village Gallery of Arts – 1060 NW Salzman Rd., Portland, OR 97229

   A Portland non-profit with a commitment to showcasing the work of local artists, the Village Gallery of Arts has been a hub of the Portland art scene for more than 50 years. This is a fun place for any art lover to visit, with fantastic local art on display and a wide variety of community classes available to help you create art of your own. The gallery here features exhibits from Portland-area artists working in various media, with work from more than 100 local artists on display.

3. Froelick Gallery – 714 NW Davis St., Portland, OR 97209

   You never know what you might find when you visit the Froelick Gallery, and that's part of the fun! Froelick Gallery has been a popular Portland art spot for more than 25 years, with rotating exhibitions from a diverse group of artists. Much of the work you'll see here was created in the Pacific Northwest, with a sprinkling of work from artists in Tokyo, as well. The gallery is open by appointment and accepts walk-in visitors if you happen to arrive when someone is present to let you into the gallery.

4. Caswell Sculpture – 903 E Historic Columbia River Hwy., Troutdale, OR 97060

   Owned and operated near Troutdale homes for sale by the husband-and-wife team of Rip and Alison Caswell, Caswell Sculpture is a must-see for anyone who loves bronze statues. The Caswells have traveled around the world to find inspiration for their art, and much of their work is based on nature. The gallery also features a fascinating collection of photography and bronze sculptures of people, both famous and obscure. There are even sculptures of university mascots, which you can find both in the gallery and on the grounds of some famous local universities.

5. Portland Art Museum – 1219 SW Park Ave., Portland, OR 97205

   When you're in the mood for the classic Portland art experience, start your journey at the Portland Art Museum. With more than a century of experience displaying local art, the Portland Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest. When you visit, you'll find an extensive collection of new exhibitions, long-term collections, films, and educational programs. Tour the expansive museum at your own leisure, or enjoy a guided tour from one of the friendly, knowledgeable staff members at the museum.

6. Three Rivers Artist Guild – 613 7th St., Oregon City, OR 97045

   With a commitment to showcasing the work of Oregon City artists, the Three Rivers Artist Guild is your source for great art near Oregon City homes for sale. Three Rivers Artist Guild features exhibit rotations that vary with each month, so there's always something new to see. The strong commitment to local artists means this is an excellent place to see work from emerging artists who haven't had their work displayed in other galleries. Each month features work from 30 to 40 new artists, so be sure to check back often to see all that the Oregon City art scene has to offer.

When you call Portland home, the region's vibrant, legendary local art scene is always just a short trip from your front door. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Portland, OR area.

If you're looking to add an extra element of style or decoration to your new kitchen, maximizing the appearance of your backsplash is a great way to do it. A beautiful backsplash is an affordable strategy for improving the overall look and feel of the room. Best of all, backsplashes are easy to install yourself. With various materials, styles, patterns, and designs, choosing a new backsplash can be a fun way to increase your home value. The trick is to make sure it complements your kitchen's colors, countertops, and cabinetry. 

While choosing a visually appealing backsplash is important, remember a backsplash's purpose is to protect the wall behind your sinks and counters, which is consistently exposed to food and liquids and changing temperatures. When adding a DIY backsplash, always be sure to select materials that are durable and easy to clean.

If you're in the process of designing a new kitchen, our brokers can help. Below are nine beautiful, protective backsplash ideas that can really help to tie your kitchen design together.

1. Horizontal Subway Tiles
   Nothing says classic and casual quite like horizontal subway tiles. Bright colored tiles over darker grout can really create a welcoming look. Another added bonus is that the darker grout will also help make stains less apparent.
2. Diagonal Porcelain Tiles
   Diagonally placed white square tiles can add an extra dimension to a classic look. Porcelain tiles are also affordable and easy to clean. We often see that 4 x 4 or 8 x 8 tiles create the best look. 
3. Round Penny Tiles
   If you're going for a vintage yet trendy appearance, penny tiles are really making a comeback. If you have white cabinets, try light-colored penny tiles over darker colored grout to really bring out the texture.
4. Chevron Tiles
   When done properly, Chevron patterns can create a beautiful, unique look. Just be sure not to overdo it -- the key is to make the pattern just subtle enough to be noticeable. Complementary zigzags in matching hues can create an optimal effect. 
5. Marble Block
   If you're looking for a way to class-up your kitchen, a marble block backsplash can go a long way. While expensive, nothing creates a stunning look quite like marble. A bright marble backsplash in a neutral color kitchen will really give your new kitchen an upscale feel. Best of all, marble is easy to clean. Check out some of the marble block backsplashes on these beautiful Seattle, WA homes for sale.
6. Beach Cottage
   Want a summer vibe in your house all year long? A beach cottage backsplash is a great way to keep your kitchen bright and vibrant during the rainy Bellevue months. Turquoise sea glass accents over a taupe backdrop can create a peaceful, calming effect on your kitchen. Just make sure you have clean white cabinetry to offset the bright colors. 
7. Mirrored Tiles
   For a grand, flashy twist to your kitchen, consider creating a tiled mirror backsplash. Because mirrors reflect light, it can also add more depth to your kitchen, making it appear larger and brighter. Mirror tiles are also super easy to clean.
8. Hexagon Mosaic
   If you're looking for classic beauty, consider a hexagon mosaic. This pattern has been used in kitchens for decades. These eye-catching shapes can be used to create the perfect blend between tiles can create the perfect blend between retro and chic.
9. Stainless Steel
   Stainless steel backsplashes are a great option if you're looking for a stylish, modern look. They're affordable, easy to install, and best of all, they are incredibly easy to clean.  If you're a heavy-duty cooker, stainless steel backsplashes are a no-brainer. Just make sure you clean it properly, as you don't want to risk scratches or stains.

A beautiful, durable backsplash is a great way to improve your home with minimal effort. For more inspiration, or help finding a new home with a kitchen you'll love, contact us today.

Portland, Oregon has been called one of the most pet-friendly cities in America, and it's not hard to see why. With an abundance of pet stores, dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants, and dog walking trails, Portland is a pet owner's dream city. 

Our brokers are proud to live in a city that welcomes all our four-legged friends. If you're looking for your next home in the area, here's what you should look out for to know you're in a pet-friendly neighborhood. 

1. Trash Cans
   We've all done it, but throwing your dog's poop bag in a neighbor's garbage can while you're out for a walk is a definite faux pas. That's why it's always great to live in a neighborhood with public trash cans on every corner. It's a sure sign that you and your pooch will be happy, and you won't have to be sneaky when you dispose of your dog's waste. 
2. Dog Parks
   Dogs need places where they can run free, and a sure sign of a welcoming neighborhood is an abundance of dog parks nearby. In particular, look for dog parks that are clean and well-kept, with nicely cut grass and an absence of litter. If possible, visit during a time when the dog park is likely to be busy, and see if it looks like people are cleaning up after their animals and respecting the park. Some of our favorite dog parks in the Portland area include Mt. Tabor Dog Park and the off-leash area at Sellwood Riverfront Park. 
3. Sidewalks
   They're easy to take for granted until you need one and don't have it. Sidewalks are essential for daily dog walks, so make sure your neighborhood has them! Bonus points if they're nice and clean, and free of cracks and potholes. 
4. Services and Amenities
   When you see a lot of pet supply stores, vet offices, dog grooming services, doggie day-cares, and other pet-centric amenities, there's a good chance you're in a great neighborhood for pets. It's best if you can visit neighborhoods in person and explore, but Google Maps is a great tool for evaluating neighborhoods remotely. 
5. Other Dogs
   Pet-friendly neighborhoods tend to attract people who have pets. So look around. Visit the neighborhood in the morning and evening, and see how many dogs you can see out taking their humans for a walk. In addition to the number of dogs you spot, take note of how healthy they look, and how many different breeds you see. A wide variety of dog breeds usually indicates a dog-savvy human population. 
6. Dog-Friendly Restaurants
   A sure sign that Fido will feel right at home is an abundance of pet-friendly restaurants in the area. Portland certainly has plenty of them, with spots like Java Hound Coffee Bar, a coffee shop inside a pet shop, where you can enjoy treats for humans and pets alike. Be sure to talk to our team about more pet-friendly restaurants, bars, and cafes near Portland homes for sale. Even in shops where dogs aren't able to come inside, you'll usually see water bowls outside and pet-friendly patios. 
7. Walking and Jogging Trails
   It's always good to get off the beaten path with Fido, and sometimes you get tired of walking down roads and sidewalks every day. Look for a neighborhood with easy access to plenty of urban hiking trails, bike paths, and greenways. Portland, for example, is home to 152 miles of regional trails that connect all different parts of the city. That's a lot of green space waiting to be sniffed and explored!

Contact us today to learn more about life in Portland, Oregon. As residents of one of the most pet-friendly cities in America, our brokers are committed to helping find the dream home for both you and your furry friends. 

Is it time for spring break already? If you're searching for fun, family activities to enjoy with your kids over spring break, you're in luck. The Portland area is filled with amazing attractions for families with kids, as our brokers and so many long-time residents can attest. Prepare for an unforgettable spring break filled with family memories, with our guide to 6 great things to do with your kids this spring in Portland.

1. Japanese Garden – 611 SW Kingston Ave., Portland, OR 97205
   Portland homes for sale make it easy to find fun, cultural activities to keep your kids entertained over spring break, thanks to fascinating attractions like the Japanese Garden. The Japanese Garden is an excellent mix of fun, education, and culture. Kids will love exploring the exotic, beautifully arranged plants in the garden, connecting with outdoor art, and climbing to the cultural village. At the cultural village, you'll find world-class Japanese architecture, with buildings featuring Japanese art and different activities for every season. Stop by on the right day, and you might find a unique live performance or demonstration from Japanese culture.
2. Oregon Zoo – 4001 SW Canyon Rd., Portland, OR 97211
   What could make for a better family outing than a day at the zoo? Enjoy the spring weather while you explore the vast Oregon Zoo, where there's always something new and exciting to see. The 64-acre zoo features five large exhibit areas, each highlighting wildlife from different parts of the world. Exhibits include forests, the Great Northwest, Asia, Africa, and much more. Nearly every day, you'll find a new performance, concert, educational talk, or special exhibit at the zoo. There's also plenty of food available, along with scenic, quiet places to rest when you spend a full day exploring.
3. North Clackamas Aquatic Park – 7300 SE Harmony Rd., Milwaukie, OR 97222
   You don't have to wait for summer to enjoy a family day at the pool close to Milwaukie homes for sale, thanks to the wonderful North Clackamas Aquatic Park. The Aquatic Park is home to Oregon's largest wave pool, and that's just the start! Kids love spending time racing down the various water slides at the facility and climbing the tall rock wall. There's a toddler splash zone for younger kids, along with multiple pools for swimmers of all ages. Kids can learn the ropes of pool safety with regular swimming classes, and adults love the aquatic exercise classes offered at North Clackamas Aquatic Park.
4. Evergreen Museum – 500 NE Captain Michael Smith King Way, McMinnville, OR 97128
   Family fun is never far from your front door around McMinnville homes for sale, and the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is one of the top family attractions in the area. The museum offers educational tours, where kids can learn about the history of aviation in a fun, engaging setting, or you can participate in a family scavenger hunt that will bring you to every corner of the museum. If you're planning a group event for spring break, kids can even spend the night at the museum! Of course, every day, there are amazing exhibits to see, on everything from early aviation to space flight technology.
5. World of Speed – 27490 SW 95th Ave., Wilsonville, OR 97070
   With a convenient location close to Wilsonville homes for sale, the World of Speed Motorsports Museum mixes education and entertainment in a way that kids love. Interactive exhibits at World of Speed are especially popular among children, including racing simulators that allow kids to feel what it's like to be behind the wheel of a real race car. The Starting Line Club is perfect for younger children, allowing them to learn about the science of vehicle manufacturing and racing in a fun, hands-on way.
6. Quarterworld – 4811 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97215
   Does a day of new and retro arcade games sound like fun for you as it would be for your kids? Then it's time for a trip to Quarterworld, which is part arcade, part museum, and 100 percent family fun. Quarterworld is filled with all of your favorite arcade games from childhood. You won't find a better selection of classic pinball games anywhere in Portland, while Quarterworld also features delicious food and drink to keep everyone in your group at the top of their game.

No matter the season or occasion, there is always a fresh, fun family activity to enjoy when you call Portland home. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Portland, OR area.

Spend a bit of time hanging around Bend, and you'll quickly notice that the area is home to a huge collection of local breweries. While the quantity is nice, it's the quality of local breweries that sets Bend apart from most cities around the country. Bend now ranks as one of the best areas in the entire country for craft brewing, adding to the reputation of Central Oregon as one of the nation's real brewing hotspots. Our brokers have all of the exciting details on where to enjoy brews around Bend.

• Silver Moon Brewing – 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend, OR 97730
  Bend homes for sale put you in the heart of a dynamic brewing community, thanks to great local breweries like Silver Moon Brewing. Established at a time when Bend was home to just two other breweries, Silver Moon remains one of the best spots in the city. Like most breweries in the area, Silver Moon Brewing starts with freshwater from mountain snow-melt for its beers, then builds complex flavors from that strong base. The Silver Moon Pub is a relaxed, inviting drinking destination, where you're likely to find a few new friends in addition to some excellent local brews.

• GoodLife Brewing Company – 70 SW Century Dr., Bend, OR 97702
  Enjoy a taste of the good life, with the diverse menu of locally brewed craft beers from the GoodLife Brewing Company. While some breweries specialize in creating sweet or sour beers, the team at GoodLife Brewing is all about balance. Beers here are never too sweet or bitter, but every brew is still packed with flavor. Ales are the signature style at this brewery, and the GoodLife Bierhall is the perfect place to enjoy these delicious local brews alongside an excellent meal.

• Bend Brewing Company – 1019 NW Brooks St., Bend, OR 97703
  If you're looking to enjoy an amazing craft brew in a classic pub atmosphere, be sure to take some time for the excellent Bend Brewing Company. Like Silver Moon Brewing, the Bend Brewing Company was one of the three original breweries in Bend. The team here has been creating hoppy, flavorful IPAs for 25 years, and even with increased competition remains one of the best breweries in the city. The Bend Brewing Pub is a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike, with a casual atmosphere, extensive food offerings, tons of TVs, and friendly, personal service.

• 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – 62950 NE 18th St., Bend, OR 97701
  With 20 taps featuring the best local brews and an unmatched menu of pub food, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. will always be one of Bend's favorite spots to enjoy a cold beer. The pub is located at 10 Barrel Brewing Co. Headquarters and features stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and the local scenery around Bend. Sample one of the many year-round brews available, or stop by during each season to check out a fresh selection of seasonal beers. You can even schedule a brewery tour to go behind the scenes.

• Worthy Brewing – 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend, OR 97701
  Local breweries are often great supporters of the communities where they do business, and Worthy Brewing truly goes the extra mile to be a valued part of the community. Of course, the beer and atmosphere are fantastic, too! Everything at Worthy Brewing, from the beers to the delicious food on your plate, is created with the freshest local ingredients. Worthy Brewing maintains a garden where many ingredients are sourced and partners with local farms for the rest. The result is a brewery celebrating everything that makes Bend so special.

• The Ale Apothecary – 30 SW Century Dr. Suite 140, Bend, OR 97702
  Searching for something unique for your next brew? The Ale Apothecary brews every batch in handmade oak barrels and sources every ingredient locally to create flavors that you won't find anywhere else. With a commitment to all-natural brewing techniques and a reverence for the bounty that local land supplies, the team at the Ale Apothecary creates unique brews that keep regulars coming back for more. 

If you love fresh, unique local brews, then you'll feel right at home in Bend. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

You already know that Portland has a legendary culinary scene, but have you considered brunch? PDX has a brunch hotspot to suit every taste. From the finest French-inspired cuisine to the home-cooked joys of eggs, meat, and potatoes, it's easy to satisfy your brunch cravings close to home in Portland. Our brokers love local meals, and we've got the details on 7 of the best brunch destinations around Portland.

1. Tasty n Alder – 580 SW 12th Ave., Portland, OR 97205
   make it easy to enjoy all of the delicious brunch destinations on our list, including the lovely Tasty n Alder. In the evening, Tasty n Alder is known as one of Portland's top steakhouses, and the brunch menu more than equals what you'll find at dinnertime. Executive chef John Gorham, who owns a variety of top-rated restaurants around the city, has created a brunch menu that incorporates cooking styles that he has learned while traveling the world. Mix in a huge selection of craft cocktails, and you have the perfect brunch destination close to Portland homes for sale.

2. Hunnymilk – 1981 W Burnside St., Portland, OR 97209

   If you've ever visited the weekly Hunnymilk brunch pop-up on 28th Ave., then you'll be excited to learn that Portland's favorite pop-up brunch hotspot now has a brick and mortar location! The unique menu at Hunnymilk allows you to pick one sweet dish, one savory dish, and one drink to create a brunch that perfectly suits your mood. There are a variety of vegan and gluten-free options available, with every dish and drink created from fresh, local ingredients.

3. Mother's Bistro & Bar – 121 SW 3rd Ave., Portland, OR 97204

   Owned and operated by executive chef Lisa Schroeder, Mother's Bistro & Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing brunch with your favorite people. If you're looking for an elegant brunch spot that still offers a laid-back atmosphere, this is the place to be. Mother's serves comfort food, but never skimps on quality. The menu features local pork, beef, and wild salmon, along with European-style ingredients that add a dash of unique flavor to every meal. Mother's also features the Mother of the Month program, which includes special dishes inspired by each month's winner.

4. Bijou Cafe – 121 SW 3rd Ave., Portland, OR 97204

   Looking for an upscale brunch spot that's big on flavor and unique dishes? Stop by the Bijou Cafe, where everything on the menu is as fresh as it is delicious. Serving delicious meals since 1978, the Bijou Cafe offers a menu packed with French-style cuisine, a style which owner and chef Kathleen Hagberg has honed over decades in the kitchen. Every ingredient is sourced locally when possible, and the menu at Bijou Cafe is always evolving.

5. Milk Glass Mrkt. – 2150 N Killingsworth St., Portland, OR 97217

   If you'd like to enjoy a craft cocktail or fine glass of wine with your next brunch, be sure to visit the popular Milk Glass Mrkt. for your next late-morning meal. In addition to excellent cocktails, Milk Glass Mrkt. is known for its savory brunches and delicious dessert menu. Stop by for some homemade bread pudding or warm almond butter cake, right after you enjoy a fresh salad, sandwich, or egg plate from the simple, delightful menu at Milk Glass.

6. Irving Street Kitchen – 701 NW 13th Ave., Portland, OR 97209

   With an extensive drink list and tons of great food fresh from the griddle, Irving Street Kitchen has everything you need to enjoy your next brunch outing. Irving Street Kitchen is a true brunch destination, offering a flavorful mix of your favorite morning and early afternoon meals. Try the famed Irving Street Kitchen sugar and spice donuts, which provide the perfect way to finish off your delicious meal.

7. Radar PDX – 3951 N Mississippi Ave., Portland, OR 97227

   Famed for its warm, intimate atmosphere and a list of awards a mile long, Radar PDX consistently ranks as one of the top brunch spots in the entire region. While some brunch spots stick to a few select dishes, Radar PDX offers a huge selection of meals with plenty of options to customize your brunch. Mix in a great variety of cocktails, and it's easy to see why this spot is a local favorite.

When you call Portland home, your only concern with finding great food is how to fit in a visit to all of the amazing restaurants around the city. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

Coldwell Banker Bain, a leading provider of real estate brokerage services throughout Washington and Oregon, and a market leader in home sales in 2019,* releases its 2019 annual market report providing a variety of statistics for the sale of homes in neighborhoods and counties throughout the Puget Sound region and SW Washington and Oregon, as well as for segments including luxury and condos. This report reflects activity between Jan 1, 2019 and Dec 31, 2019.**

EASTSIDE REPORT	NORTH SOUND REPORT	PUGET SOUND REPORT	SEATTLE REPORT

WATERFRONT REPORT	SOUTH SOUND REPORT	SW WASHINGTON REPORT	OREGON REPORT

*According to final 2019 statistics derived from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service data (NWMLS), Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS) and Multiple Listing Service of Central Oregon (MLSCO).

**Information and statistics derived by CB Bain from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS), Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS), and Multiple Listing Service of Central Oregon (MLSCO) each quarter. Statistics not compiled or published by the NWMLS, RMLS, or MLSCO.

No matter the season, you're never far from fresh, local seafood or a fine glass of locally produced wine when you call Portland home. The Portland Seafood and Wine Festival is an annual celebration of the area's amazing local culinary scene, with food, drink, and fun for the whole family. Our brokers are ready to dig in, and we've got all the details on what to expect from this year's Portland Seafood and Wine Festival.

Dates: January 31 – February 1, 2020

Location: Oregon Convention Center – 777 NE Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd, Portland, OR 97232

The Portland Seafood and Wine Festival is a huge gathering, taking place at the Oregon Convention Center with more than 90,000 square feet of event space. Portland homes for sale offer easy access to countless great restaurants, and this festival is a chance to sample many of the best local spots in one convenient location. A portion of the proceeds from the two-day event goes toward supporting the Oregon Chapter of the National MS Society.

There will be tons of fresh seafood, along with wares from local distilleries, wineries, and craft breweries. The Portland Seafood and Wine Festival is also a family-friendly event, with face painters, balloon artists, and plenty of other fun activities to keep younger visitors entertained.

Seafood Spotlight: Local Restaurants Participating

The Portland Seafood and Wine Festival features nearly 200 local businesses, with something to suit every taste. We'll touch on a few of the top local restaurants and wineries participating in the event.

• Asiatico Asian Fusion Sushi
  Family owned and operated since opening in 2011, Asiatico Asian Fusion Sushi has been voted best sushi in Lincoln County nearly every year since opening its doors. If you're looking for fresh, local sushi presented in ways you won't find in every sushi restaurant, then this is the place to be.

• Pacific Crab Company
  The Portland Seafood and Wine Festival takes place in the heart of Dungeness Crab season, and the Pacific Crab Company is sure to have fresh, local crab prepared in just about any way you can imagine. With a no-frills focus on quality and decades of experience preparing fresh Oregon seafood, the Pacific Crab Company is constantly coming up with delicious, new ways to serve all of your seafood favorites.

• Hapa Food Company
  With founders raised on Oahu and in-depth knowledge of Hawaiian culinary culture, Hapa Food Company will be serving up unique dishes that you'll find at the festival. Armed with a long list of old-fashioned family recipes that have been passed down for generations, Hapa Food Company brings the best of Hawaiian cooking to Oregon.

Wineries to Watch: Wineries Participating

• Bluebird Hill Cellars
  Established in 2014 by husband and wife team Neil and Sue Shay, Bluebird Hill Cellars is committed to producing outstanding small-batch, hand-crafted wines. The team at Bluebird Hill believes in blending both the art and science of wine-making, creating each wine based on the character of the grapes that their small vineyard produces each year.

• Denison Cellars
  With a long list of award-winning wines and a constant commitment to quality, Denison Cellars produces some of the best wine in all of Oregon. This winery creates a variety of dark, fruity, flavorful wines, and has received top ratings from many major wine publications. Pinot Noir is the focus here, with winemakers Tim and Denise Wilson drawing inspiration from wineries across the world.

• Potter's Vineyard
  Winemakers Bill and Sandy Sanchez got the idea to start their winery while on a trip to Italy, then spent the following years learning everything they could about the process of producing top-rated wine. The result is Potter's Vineyard, where the dream of a husband and wife team has become a reality. Potter's Vineyard specializes in producing Oregon Pinot Noir, but branches out into a variety of other styles, as well.

The Portland Seafood and Wine Festival is a perfect example of why the city is such a fantastic place to call home, especially if you love great food. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Portland area.

Whether you've lived in Portland for years or have only visited for a weekend, you already know that the City of Roses is full of fun events throughout the year. The winter season is no different as the city hosts dozens of holiday happenings that will fill your schedule with tidings of great joy. If you want to immerse yourself in holiday cheer, be sure to mark these fun festivities on your calendar throughout December!

1. The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition — The Square 701 SW 6th Ave., Portland, OR 97204 | Dec 13
   Do you love singing holiday songs? Then you've got to head to Portland's Living Room for the sixth edition of the yearly Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition. Once held downtown in the 90s, this free event returned to Portland a few years ago and is reestablishing itself as one of the best family-friendly festivities in town. Come down for a listen or warm up your pipes and enter into the contest with your favorite holiday tune!
   
   
2. George Balanchine's The Nutcracker — Keller Auditorium 222 SW Clay St., Portland, OR 97201 | Dec 7 – 26
   One of the most iconic ballets to ever grace the stage, George Balanchine's The Nutcracker, will dance its way into Portland for most of December. Presented by the Oregon Ballet Theatre, twelve performances will take place at the Keller Auditorium, including some performances for those with auditory or visual limitations. A classic story that every theatre lover should attend, buy your tickets to The Nutcracker before they are sold out.
   
   
3. Judy Collins Holidays & Hits — Aladdin Theater 3017 SE Milwaukee Ave., Portland, OR 97202 | Dec 17
   For over half of a century, singer Judy Collins has entertained thousands with her blend of contemporary and folklore songs. She makes her way to the Aladdin Theater this winter for an evening of Holidays and Hits. This all-ages event is sure to get even the most curmudgeonly of Portlanders in the holiday spirit.
   
   
4. A Christmas Carol The Musical — Winningstad Theatre 1111 SW Broadway Ave., Portland, OR 97205 | Dec 5 – 22
   Can you call it Christmas without hearing the story of A Christmas Carol? Our brokers believe that the Charles Dickens classic is a must-see for every man, woman, and child to celebrate during December. The Winningstad Theatre is putting on a production of A Christmas Carol The Musical from early December leading up to Christmas. This refreshing variation of the traditional stage play brings music and song to the timeless story as Ebenezer Scrooge learns a powerful life lesson and the true meaning of Christmas.
   
   
5. Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art + Craft Market — Oregon Convention Center 777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland, OR 97232 | Dec 14 – 15
   Get your holiday shopping list completed at the Oregon Convention Center. The Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art and Craft Market returns with over 250 vendors selling handmade gifts. Jewelry, candles, bath and body care products, stationery, framed art, and so much more are on display. The perfect gift for your friends and family members is waiting for you at this exciting holiday marketplace.   
   
   
6. Comfort & Joy: A Classical Christmas — Oregon Symphony 909 SW Washington, Portland, OR 97205 | Dec 18
   With a week left until Christmas, the Oregon Symphony wants to give you an evening of good cheer that will last into the New Year! The Comfort & Joy: A Classical Christmas special concert brings the community together for a happy celebration of the holiday season. Hear classic Christmas songs and sing along with your seasonal favorites.

With so many fun festivities around town, who wouldn't want to move into one of our fabulous Portland homes for sale? Contact us today to learn everything you need to know about buying and selling homes in the City of Roses!

Our brokers invite you to join us and your Portland neighbors as we recognize and participate in Giving Tuesday on December 3rd. This annual global giving movement was created to celebrate the charitable season by encouraging individuals to donate to causes that impact their communities and the world as a whole. Countless organizations throughout Oregon make our state a better place, and we ask you to consider showing patronage to these fantastic Portland charities on this upcoming Giving Tuesday.

1. Wheel to Walk Foundation — PO Box 20146, Portland, OR 97294
   Imagine giving children with mobility disabilities the opportunity to get the most out of life with the aid of assistive mobility items and other vital services. The Wheel to Walk Foundation obtains medical equipment and services for kids 20 and younger that insurance will not provide. All donations help these individuals lead a more convenient and accessible life, including everything from taking showers with bath chairs to getting outside activity with adaptive strollers and wheelchairs.
   
   
2. On the Move Community Integration — 4187 SE Division St., Portland, OR 97202
   For those living with disabilities, it can be difficult to live a lifestyle allowing them to frequently interact with their surroundings. On the Move Community Integration helps adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities overcome these challenges by providing them meaningful, healthful access to their community through activities. Their programs include Community Inclusion Programs that engage these adults with the environment. Supported Employment Programs help them prepare for and secure, fulfilling employment. Plus, Personal Enrichment Programs offer one-on-one attention to help build positive relationships and achieve literacy goals. Generous donations of time or money help these adults feel welcomed and embraced by their Portland community.
   
   
3. These Numbers Have Faces — PO Box 13056, Portland, OR 97213
   There are bright minds across the world that unfortunately do not have access to the opportunities they need to change our future. Thankfully, These Numbers Have Faces work to educate and equip Africa's brightest young leaders for successful development. With only 5 percent of Sub-Saharan Africans getting able to attend a university, These Numbers Have Faces provide ongoing support for talented scholars to complete their education. Impact Circles allow donors to fund and advise these youths throughout their university career so they can have hands-on involvement in their on-going success.
   
   
4. Fences for Fido — PO Box 42265, Portland, OR 97242
   Did you know that you can change a dog's life forever in a single afternoon? At Fences for Fido, donors build fences for families to allow their dogs the freedom to run and play outside. In less than a decade, they've unchained nearly 2,000 dogs across Oregon and Washington. Monetary donations help fund these projects, and the organization also accepts hands-on volunteers who would like to build these fences to give a dog the life they deserve.
   
   
5. Breast Friends — 14050 SW Pacific Hwy Suite 201, Tigard, OR 97224
   Breast Friends is a support group for women with cancer, composed of women who have survived or are managing their diagnosis. They're there to ensure that no woman has to fight this disease alone. With group and one-on-one meetings, Breast Friends are there to support not only those diagnosed but their family and friends as well. Cancer is, unfortunately common. Because so many have faced this trauma before, organizations like Breast Friends can provide the emotional support patients need to improve their quality of life.
   
   
6. Potluck in the Park — PO Box 12443, Portland, OR 97212
   Each Sunday, the volunteers of Potluck in the Park work to provide hot meals to hundreds of hungry Portland residents in need. With special events like benefit concerts and Christmas dinners throughout the year, Potluck in the Park is a unique weekly charity event that unites and nourishes the community. Your donations help serve nearly 600 meals each week, ensuring that as many men, women and children as possible go to sleep with full stomachs.
   
   
7. PlayWrite — PO Box 13420, Portland, OR 97213
   Art is a gateway to success, happiness, and stability for many young boys and girls. PlayWrite is a unique nonprofit organization of professional actors and coaches who work with one-on-one youth that may be overcoming obstacles in their lives. Their workshops provide one-to-one interaction as these young minds are taught how to explore themselves in a new way. At the end of each workshop series, the children perform in front of a live audience. Donations support these talented young performers and help cultivate the arts and culture scene of Portland.

We hope that you consider donating to one of these fantastic organizations on Giving Tuesday. If you'd like assistance viewing Portland homes for sale, contact us today!

There are endless ways to enjoy life in Portland, Oregon. It's a hub for food, coffee, live music, and culture, but our brokers are also grateful to live in a place with a wonderful climate and spectacular natural scenery. That makes it one of the best places in the U.S. for hiking and outdoor adventure in any season. 

The Portland area offers year-round hiking opportunities. Whether you're looking for a challenging trek or an easy afternoon stroll, these are some of our favorite all-season hiking destinations near Portland homes for sale.

1. Tryon Creek State Natural Area
   How many major metropolitan areas can claim to have a full state park within the city limits? Portland does, and we're proud of it! Tryon Creek State Natural Area spans 658 acres and contains 8 miles of hiking trails, 3 miles of horseback riding trails and a 3-mile paved bike path. The entire area is packed with incredible scenery that feels miles away from city life. The 5.7-mile Outer Loop Hike is a great place to start. 
   
   
2. Columbia River Gorge
   Spanning the border between Washington and Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Northwest. Despite the damage done by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire, the gorge remains one of the region's premier hiking destinations. Many miles of trails are still intact, even as the forest along the Columbia gradually recovers. The Latourell Falls Loop is one of the most picturesque hikes in the gorge, just a short drive from Portland. The 2.4-mile trail offers an amazing view of the 224-foot single-plunge Latourell Falls. 
   
   
3. Springbrook-Iron Mountain Loop
   An easy 3.4-mile loop hike, the beautiful Springbrook-Iron Mountain Loop connects quiet neighborhood streets and serene woodlands just north of Oswego Lake. You can access the loop from the trailhead on Sunleaf Drive, right around the corner from many Lake Oswego, OR homes for sale. The trail meanders through neighboring Springbrook Park and Iron Mountain Park, utilizing old railroad beds and passing through rich Pacific madrone and Oregon white oak forests. 
   
   
4. Marquam Trail
   Stretching 5.8 miles through several city parks, the Marquam Trail traverses some of the most secluded forests in the Portland area. It's an out-and-back hike that gains 1,100 feet, making it a moderately challenging trek, but it's well worth the effort. The Marquam Trail begins at Marquam Nature Park and reaches its terminus at Council Crest, the highest point in Portland. There you can take in an awe-inspiring view across the city to the Cascade Range, including Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Rainier.
   
   
5. Molalla River State Park
   Nestled at the confluence of the Willamette, Molalla and Pudding rivers just a few miles from these Oregon City, OR homes for sale, this 567-acre park is a popular destination for fishing and kayaking. For hikers, one of the main attractions at Molalla River State Park is the 2.5-mile loop formed by portions of the Riverside Trail and Pond Loop Trail. This easy route traverses the riparian forest and reclaimed agricultural land, offering sweeping blufftop views across the Molalla River. 
   
   
6. Forest Park
   Forest Park is by far the biggest park in Portland, encompassing 5,200 acres of public woodlands. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the classic feel of a Pacific Northwest forest without leaving the city limits. Forest Park includes more than 80 miles of trails along the eastern slope of the Tualatin Mountains, including the iconic 30-mile Wildwood Trail.
   
   
7. Mt. Hood National Forest
   The graceful, snow-capped slopes of Mt. Hood are an unmistakable fixture of the Portland skyline. Visiting Mt. Hood National Forest, just over an hour from the city, gives you a chance to get up close and personal with the famed mountain. The National Forest includes hundreds of miles of trails, including a section of the legendary 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail. For a more manageable day hike, check out the Old Salmon River Trail, which zig-zags through the lush old-growth forest at the base of Mt. Hood. 
   
   
8. Angel's Rest
   It is commonly said that the most challenging hikes offer the most magnificent views, and the trip to Angel's Rest can attest to that. Although this out-and-back hike is only 4.8 miles round-trip, its steady incline can be taxing. The view back to the city of Portland is truly breathtaking. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Portland, Oregon. Whether you're looking for a great hike or a perfect cup of coffee, our city delivers. Our team is dedicated to helping you find your dream home and live life to the fullest in the Portland area. 

Few places in the United States offer stunning scenery comparable to the Pacific Northwest. Oregon is a gem of this region, offering limitless views from the sea to the mountains. Lake Oswego is a fantastic community of fewer than 40,000 residents who surround the beautiful Oswego Lake. Although it's only a few miles away from Portland, Lake Oswego leaves the hustle and bustle of the city behind and instead provides an intimate atmosphere. Featuring a growing arts and culture scene, tons of outdoor recreation opportunities and a tight-knit community that makes even visitors feel right at home.

Our brokers have watched dozens of men and women fall in love with the charm of Lake Oswego, and we know you will too. Here are a few of the amazing experiences that await those who live along Oswego Lake.

An Inside Look at Living in Lake Oswego

The highly educated and entrepreneurial residents of Lake Oswego are mostly married couples who have children that attend one of the area's great schools. The Lake Oswego School District has one of the highest graduation rates in the region as well as some of the highest performance ratings. Several private primary schools, as well as both private and public colleges and universities, are also within a short drive from home.

Lake Oswego brings its community together at every opportunity possible. Throughout the year, a diverse array of free community events take place around town. Summertime is filled with multiple concert series while all of the warmer months feature a farmer's market in Millennium Plaza Park. Other great, family-friendly activities include:

• Daddy Daughter Dinner Dances
• Movies in the Park
• Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies
• First Tuesday Music Series
• Third Tuesday Author Series
• Second Wednesday Performing Arts Series

These wonderful events unite friends, families, and neighbors for holidays, happenings, and special occasions all year long!

Outdoor Living in Lake Oswego

Lake Oswego is perfectly positioned between the shores of the Pacific Ocean and the forests of Mount Hood. Those who love outdoor adventures, recreation, or even a simple stroll surrounded by nature will enjoy all of the natural splendor the Lake Oswego area has to offer. Oswego Lake is the namesake of the city, and the Willamette River joins this serene body of water. The City of Lake Oswego also features some natural areas and trails for local use. Over 460 acres of parks and nearly 24 miles are yours to explore. Lake Oswego's location provides close proximity to other great natural spaces throughout Oregon such as Mt. Hood National Forest and Tillamook State Forest.

Dining in Lake Oswego

Not only are the views incredible in Lake Oswego, but the food is also truly delightful as well! Lake Oswego is not without several delicious dining destinations that will satisfy any appetite. From steakhouses and sushi bars to sandwich shops and sports bars, any taste you crave can be found in town.

• Best Breakfast: La Provence — 16350 Boones Ferry Rd., Lake Oswego, OR 97035
  This small French bakery and bistro is your go-to spot for a balanced breakfast. Choose one of their breakfast favorites like the Wild Northwest Salmon Hash or Warm Berry Crepes. Their Seasonal Specials change regularly, so be sure to give them a look to see what new and exciting items are on the menu. With coffee, tea, and a handful of brunch beverages ready to order, breakfast at La Provence is a fantastic way to start your day.
  
  
• Best Dinner: Oswego Grill — 7 Centerpointe Dr., Lake Oswego, OR 97035
  If you want upscale, elegant dining at a casual price, make a reservation for dinner at Oswego Grill. Their scratch-made food includes seasonal features sourced from local farms. Start with a yummy seafood appetizer then move onto their Traditional Fried Chicken Dinner, Stuffed Salmon or Top Sirloin before ending with a delectable dessert of donuts, cakes or sundaes.
  
  
• Best Café: Blue Moon Coffee — 220 A Avenue #100, Lake Oswego, Oregon 97035
  Get your coffee fix at downtown's Blue Moon Coffee. They'll fill your cup with the best Stumptown Coffee and espresso-based beverages you need to keep your day moving. Open seven days a week Blue Moon Coffee is a charming café where you can meet and mingle with other locals.
  
  
• Best Brewery: FlyBoy Taproom — 15630 Boones Ferry Rd. Suite 1A, Lake Oswego, Oregon 97035
  It's no secret that Oregon has a top-notch beer and FlyBoy Taproom has a rotating tap of beer to help you relax after moving to Lake Oswego. Stop by and sample their latest brews, catch the day's sports game and hang out with the friendly people that call Lake Oswego home.

Living in Lake Oswego

Lake Oswego is a peaceful, laid-back city that's family-friendly and offers men and women of all ages countless activities to engage in. There are a wide variety of Lake Oswego homes for sale that our brokers would love to show you. Contact us today, and you'll be living leisurely in Lake Oswego in no time!

Located at the confluence of the stunning Willamette and Clackamas Rivers, Oregon City is a beautiful place to call home. The city still celebrates its pioneer spirit and features endless natural scenery to explore close to home. Oregon City is located about 13 miles south of Portland, with a mid-sized population and tons to do for fun. You'll find ample shopping areas in the city, along with delicious dining, fascinating museums, and plenty of outdoor attractions. Our brokers know Oregon City, and we've got the inside scoop on what it's like to call the city home.

• City Life with a Suburban Feel
  Do you enjoy the perks of an urban lifestyle, but still want a suburban feel from your hometown? Oregon City has all the trappings of a large city, with a modest population of around 35,000 residents. It offers the perfect blend of urban, suburban, and small-town living. It's no surprise that a diverse collection of buyers continually shop for Oregon City homes for sale. Enjoy world-class dining, attractions, and events, without the population density of the biggest cities.

• Outdoor Beauty at Every Turn
  Like its neighbor to the north, Oregon City is a fantastic place to call home for anyone who loves to explore the outdoors. Visiting Willamette Falls is a must, allowing you to see one of the largest waterfalls by volume in the country first-hand. The 42 foot tall, 1,500 foot wide Willamette Falls are a shining example of the outdoor beauty you'll find all around Oregon City. The city is also home to a vast collection of scenic parks. Take the time to traverse our nature trails, play your favorite sports, spend time on the water, or even take your dog for a walk.

• Local Museums Bring a Pioneering History to Life
  Did you know that Oregon City was the first city to be incorporated west of the Rocky Mountains? It continues to celebrate the occasion at the annual Heritage Days festival. Don't miss the opportunity to explore local heritage sites and museums during the two-day festival. The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive and Visitor Information Center is open year-round to elve deep into Oregon City's pioneering history. If you want to live in a city with a history of blazing its own trail, then there are few better places than Oregon City.

• Delicious Dining and Craft Brews in Oregon City
  If you love locally sourced food, unique restaurants, and a robust craft brewing culture, then Oregon City is a perfect place to settle down. Restaurants in the area often have an international feel, with flavors from around the world. Grab an authentic Scandinavian meal at Ingrid's Scandinavian Food, or head to Pho Thi for all of your favorite Vietnamese flavors. Of course, you'll also find all of your familiar favorites, including some of Oregon's best pizza at Mi Famiglia Wood Oven Pizza.
  
  The craft brewing scene in Oregon City is just as diverse as the collection of local restaurants, with a variety of breweries, distilleries, and vineyards. Stop by King's Raven Winery to sample an excellent selection of locally crafted wines, and visit the amphitheater during the summer to enjoy drive-in movies with a glass of wine. Oregon City Brewing Company is your source for the best local brews, and great food to go with your beer. Trail Distilling was the city's first distillery and continues to produce award-winning spirits.

• Shopping, Events, and Attractions in Downtown Oregon City 
  Whether you're looking for food, shopping, family fun, or local events, downtown Oregon City is the place to be. Enjoy a selection of special events throughout the year, from car shows to pub crawls and kid-friendly activities. Shop at a diverse collection of unique, locally owned businesses, where you can always find the perfect gift or item for your home.

• Access to Two of Oregon's Best Cities
  There's so much to see and do in Oregon City that you'll never have to travel far from home for fun. However, with Portland located only 13 miles to your north, you'll be able to experience the best of both cities whenever you like.

Ready to start shopping for a home of your own, where you can enjoy all that Oregon City has to offer throughout the year? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Oregon City, OR area.

Are you searching for a Portland neighborhood that has it all, from safe family fun to some of the city's best nightlife? The Pearl District is a true Portland treasure, and a favorite spot to visit for residents of all ages. It's home to a huge collection of world-class restaurants, amazing art galleries, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and beautiful parks. The Pearl District is also a fantastic example of Portland's commitment to revitalization, after undergoing a truly amazing transformation over the past 25 years to become one of the hottest spots in the city. Our brokers know Portland, and we've got all the exciting details on what awaits you in the dynamic, vibrant Pearl District.

Calling the Pearl District Home

The Pearl District is one of Portland's most in-demand neighborhoods, and living in the Pearl District certainly comes with more than its share of perks. If you want to live in a place where everything is within walking distance, and you'll always have something new to experience, then the Pearl District is for you. While this corner of the city doesn't have many detached, single-family homes, there are tons of great apartments, condos, townhomes, and other dwellings to choose from in the area. When you live in the Pearl District, Portland's best boutiques, dining spots, and nightlife are all just a short walk from your front door.

Why All of Portland Comes to the Pearl District

Don't worry. The Pearl District is easy to visit even if you decide to shop for Portland homes for sale in another part of the city. It's located just a few blocks from downtown Portland, and public transportation makes it easy to reach the Pearl District anytime. Visitors from throughout the city and beyond flock to the Pearl District to experience all of the shopping, food, outdoor fun, and entertainment the neighborhood offers.

Visit Boutique Shops and Amazing Art Galleries

If you love to shop local, then the Pearl District will be a little slice of heaven. This part of the city is home to some of Portland's best boutique shops. Powell's City of Books, located in the Pearl District, is one of the largest independent bookstores in the world, and a popular stop for residents of all ages. If you love art, stop by on the First Thursday of any month, when the Pearl District's huge collection of world-class art galleries host a popular gallery walk. Whether you're looking for clothing, art, entertainment, antiques, or just about anything else under the sun, you can find it at Pearl District shops.

Delicious Dining and Exciting Nightlife in the Pearl District

Did we mention that the Pearl District is a foodie's dream? The list of top-rated Pearl District restaurants is a mile long, with flavors from around the world. Grab something sweet from Lovejoy Bakers, or head to Irving Street Kitchen for a meal you won't soon forget. If craft brews, great times, and nightlife are more your speed, head to the Brewery Blocks to sample the work of Portland's best craft breweries.

Family Fun in the Pearl District

The Pearl District features fun for all ages, including loads of activities that kids will love. PlayDate PDX is an especially popular spot for children, with a huge indoor playground and plenty for adults to do while kids play. Families also love spending time at the many great parks located in the Pearl District. Jamison Square was one of the first places to be redeveloped in the neighborhood, with public art, beautiful water features, and a fountain where kids can play in the water. Tanner Springs Park features more outdoor beauty to explore, with wetlands, walking trails, and outdoor art. You'll also find a busy schedule of fun, family-friendly special events at parks and public spaces throughout the Pearl District.

A Shining Example of Revitalization in Portland

One of the great things about living in Portland is that the city is always growing, striving, and building toward something better. About 30 years ago, the Pearl District was a largely overlooked corner of the city, home to abandoned warehouses and work yards. After extensive redevelopment, the Pearl was reborn into the amazing center of commerce, dining, culture, and entertainment that residents enjoy today. While the Pearl District has been totally transformed, the work never really ends. That means there's always something new and exciting to experience when you visit the Pearl District.

Are you ready to find a home of your own, close to all of the action and family fun in Portland's Pearl District? Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Portland, OR area.

No matter what corner of the city you call home, there's no doubt that Portland is a fantastic place to live. The city is laid back, and filled with attractions. Residents can explore the outdoors at every turn, with a robust network of trails, bike paths, parks, and public spaces. There are so many great Portland neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own attractions, local businesses, and lifestyle. Our brokers have the details on ten of the most in-demand neighborhoods in Portland where you can find your next home.

10 In-Demand Portland Neighborhoods

1. Sellwood Moreland
   Located on the southeastern edge of the city, the Sellwood Moreland neighborhood has long been a popular place to shop for a home in Portland. This neighborhood began life as a mill town on the outskirts of the city, before becoming part of Portland as it grew larger. Today, Sellwood Moreland maintains its small-town charm, while offering easy access to all the attractions of the big city and some of the state's top-ranked schools.
   
   
   

2. Pearl District
   A shining example of Portland's commitment to urban renewal, the Pearl District has grown from humble beginnings into one of the hottest spots to shop for homes in the city. This neighborhood has transformed over the years and is home to some of the city's most popular restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, and local businesses. Spend your days shopping, dining, and exploring beautiful outdoor spaces.

3. Nob Hill
   One of the city's oldest neighborhoods, Nob Hill offers many of the charms of the Pearl District, along with a wide selection of architecture when you're shopping for a home. This neighborhood features tons of long-time local businesses, catering to the diverse demographics of Nob Hill. Explore local dining spots, shops, and more, while living in one of Portland's most in-demand neighborhoods.

4. Goose Hollow
   Interested in the lifestyle of Downtown Portland, with a more affordable cost of living? The historic Goose Hollow neighborhood is one of the most centrally located spots in the city, with plenty to do close to home. The area features a wide variety of dwellings, from apartments to condos and single-family homes that can fit any budget.
   
   

5. Lloyd District
   Looking for waterfront living without breaking the bank? The Lloyd District is located just across the river from downtown Portland, with beautiful waterfront views and loads of attractions to explore. This is where you'll find Portland's Convention Center, stadium, and the biggest mall in the city. The area has been extensively redeveloped, with tons of new businesses and dining spots to visit.

6. Alberta
   Alberta is one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in the city, with a fun, eclectic set of local businesses that reflect the neighborhood's vibrant mix of residents. The dining scene here features flavors from around the world, and there's always another fun, unique street fair coming up on the local event schedule.
   
   

7. Downtown Portland
   If you want to have it all, look no further than Downtown Portland for your next home. This is naturally among the city's most popular neighborhoods, with a convenient, walkable layout, extensive public transportation, tons of local businesses, and a park system that makes it easy to stay active. Waterfront Park, a popular stop in the neighborhood, features fairs and events all year round, along with plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy some time outdoors.
   
   

8. Mount Tabor
   With a convenient location and unmatched views, Mount Tabor has long been a desirable spot to settle down. This neighborhood offers some of Portland's most majestic mountain views, along with a popular, 195-acre public park. It's one of the city's older neighborhoods, so this is a great place to shop if you're searching for a charming home built in the early 1900s.

9. Irvington
   Located on the northeastern side of Portland, Irvington is another fantastic spot to shop if you're searching for a historic home. This corner of the city features some of the largest lots you'll find in Portland, with homes to match. Walk the tree-lined boulevards, visit historic homes, participate in the active community association, and enjoy easy access to Downtown Portland anytime you please.

10. Buckman
    The fun, funky Buckman neighborhood is known for its unique mix of residents, and diverse collection of homes. Shop for restored Old Portland homes that encapsulate the city's history, with a huge selection of architectural styles. Colonel Summers Park is a popular gathering place in the neighborhood year-round and features a free picnic every year where residents can get to know their neighbors in a fun, family-friendly setting.
    
    

In Portland, there's a neighborhood to match every shopper and lifestyle, from quiet residential areas to bustling urban centers packed with attractions. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Portland, OR area.