Today, we celebrate an unofficial Portland holiday — we’re calling it 503 Day, an homage to our city’s area code. With only a hint of irony, we’ve put together an itinerary where you’ll actually never feel the need to look at your phone (unless you’re taking pictures) because you’ll be having the time of your life.
9:00 a.m.
Start the day at Nordic Northwest, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Nordic culture in the Pacific Northwest; break your fast at Broder Söder, a charming cafe on the grounds that serves fare like Swedish hash, Danish pancakes, and smoked trout eggs benedict — not to mention Portland’s largest selection of aquavit.
Order a lavender oat milk cold brew to go and explore the center, taking in the impressive Nordia House’s architecture, then stroll over to Fogelbo (Swedish for “little bird”), a historic home that contains one of the largest private collections of Nordic antiques and folk art in the US.
12:00 p.m.
Tummy rumbling? Venture across the river to Sellwood, where you’ll find fantastic restaurants like Reverend’s BBQ, Nama Ramen, and Thai Lahna. After lunch, go treasure hunting in the shops along Antique Row — Old Portland Hardware & Architectural is a vintage wonderland.
3:00 p.m.
Time to get the blood pumping again; either head to Glowing Greens, an underground black-lit mini-golf experience, or hike to the top of Mount Tabor and take in the view of distant downtown. History buffs can live vicariously with a visit to the Oregon Historical Society’s “Camp Namanu, A 100 Year Journey Toward Inclusion” exhibit.
6:00 p.m.
Is that free live music we hear? It certainly is at Laurelthirst Public House (2958 NE Glisan St.), and you know what else sounds good? A Cascade Farms all-natural beef burger, on brioche buns slathered with Dijon mustard, mayo, and all the fixins’. The house-made sunflower seed + walnut patty is a worthy vegan alternative.
9:00 p.m.
Legends say that every perfect Portland day ends in a dive bar. Mad Hanna is open until 2:30 a.m., but there’s no pressure to make Friday full tilt — the place has good music, friendly faces, and ping pong out back.
What does your perfect day look like in Portland? Let us know by emailing hello@pdxtoday.com.
