Portland is a unique blend of everything a major US city has to offer while set in a lush natural setting. From cutting edge entertainment and dining, to national forests, rivers, mountains and vineyards, Portland offers the best of it all.

The city of Portland is particularly accessible, and almost all of the sites below are just a quick––and in some cases free––MAX light rail ride away from the Conference hotel.

Click here for the Portland City Guide to Accessible Activities.

Gardens, Museums, & Attractions­­

International Rose Test Garden: With over 8,000 rose bushes, the International Rose Test Garden is a must-see! The garden is the oldest continuously operated, official public test garden in the US. July is one of the best months to see this site in full bloom.

Portland Japanese Garden: Unwind in this truly authentic Japanese garden. The grounds of the Japanese garden offer stunning views of Mt. Hood, in an exquisitely tranquil setting of flowing streams, rocks, and blossoms.

Oregon Zoo and Children’s Museum: Visit the lions before you stop by Portland’s Children’s Museum. The Children’s Museum is designed for children 10 and under and includes exhibits such as; Water Works, the Dig Pit, and the Clay Studio.

The International Rose Test Garden, Japanese Garden, Oregon Zoo, and Children’s Museum are all located on the grounds of Washington Park, one of Portland’s most-used and loved public parks.

Waterfront Festivals: The waterfront hosts weekly outdoor weekend festivals and is located just five short blocks, or one MAX stop, from the Conference hotel.

Powell’s Books: The headquarters of Powell’s Books is the largest independent bookstore in the world, selling new and used books.

Shopping & Dining

Tax-free shopping: Bring an extra suitcase because shopping in Portland is tax-free! The Pioneer Place Mall and other upscale shopping such as Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Niketown are all located within 2 blocks of the hotel.

Portland Saturday Market: Open Saturdays––and Sundays!––from March to December, the Portland Saturday Market has over 350 vendors selling arts, crafts, and produce.

Laurel Brewing Co.: Serving Oregon’s first organic beers, Laurel Brewing Co. offers five family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Voodoo Doughnuts: Open 24-hours, Voodoo Doughnuts is a Portland landmark. From their famous voodoo doll doughnut to a maple bar with real bacon strips, don’t miss this Portland staple.

Day Trips

Come early, stay late! Plan an extra day before or after Conference to take a day trip to one of Portland’s exciting local attractions.

Mount Hood: Mount Hood’s tallest peak stands at 11,235 feet. With scenic drives, Adventure Park, and a national forest, there is plenty to do and see.

Columbia River Gorge: See stunning views of the gorge along Historic Columbia River Highway, visit Multnomah Falls, or the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center.

Vineyards: Tour one of the 20 wineries in the area and sample Oregon’s signature grape; Pinot Noir.

Transportation

MAX Light Rail: Portland’s accessible public light rail system is an affordable and convenient way to travel around the city. A MAX ride from the airport to the Conference hotel is approximately $2. “Fareless Square” is a 330-square-block area in the center of the city and all rides on MAX, busses, trolleys and street cars are FREE!

Arial Tram: The tram runs between the South Waterfront district and the Oregon Health & Science University. A round-trip ticket costs $4. The tram offers beautiful views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, the Willamette River, and downtown Portland.

The Travel Portland Information Center is located on Pioneer Courthouse Square, just 2 blocks from the conference hotel. This center offers a wealth of brochures, and maps plus travel consultants. A PDF of their handout “City Guide to Accessible Activities In and Out of Portland” is available on the OI Foundation website Conference page.