There are few things that I love as much as photography, but travel is definitely one of them. When I am able to combine those two passions, I find I am able to think more freely and with more creativity. While I was out in the Pacific Northwest visiting family and friends, I was able to photograph my good friend from college and her boyfriend at the Waterfront Park in Portland as well as in the Alphabet District a few miles away. Having waves, boats and bridges in the background of the images was a nice change from the usual Colorado background.
If you haven’t already visited Portland, I would highly recommend it. There is something interesting at every corner which makes photographing the city quite fun. My favorite places in Portland are; Powell’s Books, Salt and Straw, Portland City Grill, Portland Japanese Gardens and the International Rose Test Garden at Washington Park.
Powell’s Books (Four Locations in town): I’m sure that many of you have heard of this famous bookstore, and it is totally worth the hype. Granted I am a huge book lover, but just seeing how many books cover the walls of that place is crazy, whether you love books or not. I would definitely recommend stopping by the coffee shop and ordering a lavender latte, absolutely delicious!
Salt and Straw (Three Locations in town): Another popular Portland attraction, Salt and Straw is an excellent ice cream shop with the most unique flavors like Pear and Blue Cheese, Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper, and Freckled Woodblock Chocolate. While I was intrigued with all of those flavors (that I never thought would be ice cream flavors), I decided to go with Honey Lavender and was very impressed! If you are going to Portland, you have to try their ice cream…but be prepared for a wait!
Portland City Grill (Located on the 30th Floor of the U.S. BanCorp Tower): Probably my favorite place in Portland, Portland City Grill offers a early and late happy hour in the bar area adjacent to their restaurant, but this bar isn’t just any old bar. The walls are lined with windows overlooking the city, which is a beautiful view during the day, but even more-so in the evening. Be prepared to elbow a few people for a seat though, and if you want one of the seats with a view, you have to either come early or be prepared to wait.
The Japanese Gardens (611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR): There are many gardens in Portland, but the Japanese Gardens are by far the most tranquil. While most gardens are scattered with colorful blossoms or blooming trees, the Japanese Gardens was full of water features, sand gardens, zero-scaped areas and green trees and shrubs. I would definitely recommend these gardens and the Rose Gardens just across the street.
International Rose Test Garden at Washington Park (Across the Street from the Japanese Gardens): Wow! These gardens are amazing. The whole park is littered with colorful roses of all varieties and makes a beautiful location for photos. To make it even better, these gardens are free! I have visited Portland twice, during the summer and fall, and both times I have visited the gardens and each time was thoroughly enjoyable. Don’t forget to smell the roses!
To see some of the photos I took while traveling through Oregon, as well as through other adventures, check out my travel gallery.
