Beauty

Celebrating Small Business Saturday in Portland

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 21:09:55 GMT

Small Business Saturday, an initiative dedicated to celebrating and supporting small and locally-owned businesses + the impact they have in our communities, is on Saturday, Nov. 30.

The day falls between two of the biggest shopping days of the year — Black Friday and Cyber Monday — and has become an annual shopping tradition for many since its establishment by American Express in 2010.

If you’re looking to join in on the festivities this year, check out our list of some of our favorite small businesses in town — and some extra suggestions from our PDXtoday followers.

Sarah J. Handmade | Browse 30+ artists’ works and other fair trade items to find a perfect gift.
Fuchsia | You can shop locally + sustainably by checking out this resale shop that has items from brands like ModCloth, Free People, and Anthropologie.
The Baked Clay Studio | Make a statement with these vibrant polymer clay jewelry pieces.
Rose City Book Pub | A delicious recommendation from @juliettabekker: “It’s the most welcoming place! Great environment for independent creative work, reading, socializing and events, plus hearty food.”
Secondhand Pet Supply | From one pup to another — this shop is a great place to pick up treats for your best furry friend.
Hip Chicks Do Wine | Giffard’s Flowers says that this biz “has the best wine and 💕💕💕the owners.” This business-to-business rec says it all.
CoCo & Toulouse | Find handbags, earrings, wine glasses, nail polish, and all kinds of home decor.
Makerspace Sellwood | Learn how to make your own holiday gifts through one of this business’s classes or shop from a variety of locally made gifts like skincare products, cutting boards, cocktail syrups, or candles.
Azar Indulgences | It’s hard to go wrong with a chocolate bar as a gift and this Lebanese shop gets fancy with decadent options like the Dubai Pistachio-filled chocolate bar or blueberry Turkish delight.

Want to share some more small business love? Make sure to tag your favorite local businesses in the comments of our post.

Reminder: Shopping + supporting small isn’t limited to just this day — we love letting our local businesses shine all year long in our collection of City Guides.

Celebrating Small Business Saturday in Portland

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 21:09:55 GMT

Sarah J. Handmade | Browse 30+ artists’ works and other fair trade items to find a perfect gift.
Fuchsia | You can shop locally + sustainably by checking out this resale shop that has items from brands like ModCloth, Free People, and Anthropologie.
The Baked Clay Studio | Make a statement with these vibrant polymer clay jewelry pieces.
Rose City Book Pub | A delicious recommendation from @juliettabekker: “It’s the most welcoming place! Great environment for independent creative work, reading, socializing and events, plus hearty food.”
Secondhand Pet Supply | From one pup to another — this shop is a great place to pick up treats for your best furry friend.
Hip Chicks Do Wine | Giffard’s Flowers says that this biz “has the best wine and 💕💕💕the owners.” This business-to-business rec says it all.
CoCo & Toulouse | Find handbags, earrings, wine glasses, nail polish, and all kinds of home decor.
Makerspace Sellwood | Learn how to make your own holiday gifts through one of this business’s classes or shop from a variety of locally made gifts like skincare products, cutting boards, cocktail syrups, or candles.
Azar Indulgences | It’s hard to go wrong with a chocolate bar as a gift and this Lebanese shop gets fancy with decadent options like the Dubai Pistachio-filled chocolate bar or blueberry Turkish delight.

Small Shops Big Hearts makes holiday shopping a local affair with Win Big!

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 22:00:22 GMT

This year’s Win Big! holiday shopping campaign has a prize bag that puts Santa to shame, including air travel, vacation stays, Trail Blazers and Thorns tickets, gift cards, and more.

What do you have to do for a chance at this? Just something everybody can get behind — supporting local small businesses now through Dec. 10. Here’s how it works:

First, download the Win Big Shop Small app, either on Apple or Google Play.
Then browse the Small Shops Big Hearts directory or pick up a guide at participating small businesses to plan your retail route.
Every purchase means three entries into the prize raffle; those double after three purchases, triple after six, and quadruple after nine.
Winners will be announced the week following the conclusion of the event.

Visit a new hidden spa at this plant and wellness shop in Northeast Portland

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 20:46:20 GMT

After visiting Bosk, you might return home with a new potted plant, a jar of farm-to-skin moisturizer, and a newfound sense of calm.

The latter is attainable at the shop’s new “hidden spa,” The Jungle Room. We were recently invited to check out the plant and wellness shop in Northeast Portland’s Beaumont-Wilshire neighborhood — and meet founder, holistic esthetician, and community visionary, Laura Norton.

Bosk shares a building with Everest M Market. Past owners of the space have used it to house everything from a barbershop to motorcycles. When Laura, who has lived in the area for several years, heard it was available, she saw her chance to take it in a different direction.

Plants, gifts, and various skincare products Laura sources from local woman- and BIPOC-owned businesses now fill the front of the store. In the back, The Jungle Room awaits those who book facials. For City Editor Cambrie, highlights of the hour-long experience included a hot towel treatment (who knew having your face wrapped in one could feel so good?), a gua sha face massage (thank you, instant tension relief), and a jelly mask.

Bosk is plant party in the front, self-care business in the back.

Photo by Cambrie Juarez, PDXtoday

The shop is a labor of love. Laura is continuously working toward the goals she has for the space — like transforming the back parking lot into a gathering place for outdoor movies and night markets. She already hosts pop-ups on the front sidewalk every Saturday to support other local small businesses.

Facials start at $65. Add-on treatments are $10 each. Bosk is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturdays. Spa services are offered every day but Sunday.

Balance, strength + recovery — all in one app-enabled bundle

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:42:18 GMT

If your workouts have started to feel a little repetitive, you’re not alone. There are only so many times you can do the same routine before it starts to feel like checking a box instead of actually progressing.

That’s where something like the GoBalance Sport Balance Board & Yoga Roller Bundle can shake things up — it changes how you train, not just what you do.

At its core, this setup is designed to improve balance, coordination, and full-body strength. But what makes it different is the app integration. Instead of guessing if you’re doing things correctly, the GoBalance app tracks your movements in real time, giving you feedback and guiding your workouts as you go.

It also adds a layer of fun that most fitness gear just doesn’t have. With built-in games and multiple training modes, you’re not just standing on a board trying not to fall — you’re actively engaging with your workout. It’s the kind of thing that keeps you coming back, which is half the battle with fitness.

You can tailor the difficulty depending on your level, whether you’re just getting into balance training or looking for something more challenging. And since it’s compact and portable, it’s easy to use at home without committing to a full gym setup.

The included yoga roller rounds things out nicely, giving you a way to stretch, recover, and work on flexibility after your sessions.

Don’t miss a more dynamic way to approach fitness.

Get this GoBalance Sport Balance Board & Yoga Roller Bundle for $124.97 (MSRP $159.95).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Let AI feel easy again with one multi-model tool

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:38:27 GMT

AI is supposed to make your life easier. But somewhere along the way, it started doing the opposite.

You’ve got one app for writing, another for research + another for images — and suddenly you’re spending more time switching tabs than actually getting anything done. The whole point kind of gets lost. This is exactly the problem ChatOn tries to solve.

Instead of locking you into a single AI model, it brings multiple top-tier options — like GPT, Claude, and Gemini — into one place. So if you’re writing something, researching a topic, or brainstorming ideas, you can just stay in one app and get it done.

And honestly, that makes a bigger difference than you’d think.

Different AI models are better at different things. Some are stronger at writing, others at reasoning or summarizing. With ChatOn, you don’t have to commit to just one. You can use what works best for the task without jumping between platforms.

It also goes beyond basic chat. You can generate images, edit photos, summarize documents, or even pull in real-time information with built-in web search. It’s less about adding more tools and more about putting the right ones in one place.

And you can skip the blank-page moment with a built-in library of 100+ ready-made prompts that help you get started faster across writing, planning, research, and more.

If you’ve ever opened five tabs just to get through one task, this is the kind of setup that brings things back under control.

Get a 5-year subscription to the ChatOn AI Assistant Premium Plan for just $139.99 (MSRP: $199.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Subscription creep is real — this $47 tool keeps it in check

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:35:26 GMT

There’s a specific kind of financial confusion that hits when you check your statement and think, Wait… what is this charge?

It’s rarely just one subscription. It’s three, five, maybe even ten — streaming services, apps, free trials you forgot to cancel, that one membership you swore you’d use more. Individually, they don’t seem like much. Together? Different story.

SubscriptionNotebook is built to make that whole situation feel a lot less chaotic.

Instead of guessing, you get a clear, organized view of every recurring expense in one place. Streaming services, gym memberships, software subscriptions — it all lives in a single dashboard where you can see renewal dates, trial endings, and total costs without digging through emails or bank apps.

What stands out is how quickly it gives you perspective. You’re not just tracking subscriptions — you’re seeing the bigger picture. Monthly totals, yearly costs, and how everything adds up over time. It’s the kind of visibility that makes it easier to decide what stays and what goes.

The alerts help, too. Knowing a charge is coming before it hits your account is a small thing, but it makes a big difference. No surprises, no last-minute scrambling.

And the setup? Simple. No spreadsheets, no complicated systems.

If the subscriptions chaos has gotten out of hand, this is a straightforward way to bring everything back into focus without overcomplicating it.

For a one-time $47 payment (MSRP $504), SubscriptionNotebook gives you a long-term way to stay organized and in control.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Portland's illuminated martini glass in the West Hills

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:17:00 GMT

We’ll take “Quirky Portland Signs” for $400, please.

Clue: A beverage container that inspired a 30-ft display in the West Hills that, when lit, unofficially signals the start of the holiday season.

Question: What is a martini glass?

Ding ding ding.

Portland’s iconic, illuminated martini glass is soon to shine bright once again. It’s a familiar sight this time of year — but do you know the story behind it? Bottoms up, we’re jumping back in time.

An Italian family named the Martinis were the first to build a martini glass sign in the West Hills — albeit on a smaller scale — which they would light up to signal a party was happening. After the family moved away, a high schooler in the neighborhood named Monty Meadows decided to keep the tradition going. He made a larger version of the sign using two-by-fours and some borrowed Christmas lights, and then affixed it to the side of his family’s home.

Wintry Northwest weather had other ideas, though. The rickety sign was blown down and repaired multiple times until Monty’s dad offered to help. Together, the duo improved the emblem every year, adding stronger aluminum piping and more lights. By the time Monty’s parents separated in 1982 and the family home was put up for sale, the sign was iconic enough that the new buyer insisted it be included in the deal.

A red slash was added to the sign at one point to discourage drunk driving.

Photo by @photosbymikewarner

Fast forward a few decades to when the property changed hands again. The buyer — Portland architect Aaron Hall — tore down the house in 2013 and built a new one, but the effort took years… and the martini glass was sorely missed. “Everybody was calling, saying ‘Where’s the sign, where’s the sign?’” Aaron told KOIN 6 News. “I said, ‘It’s coming back. I just have to build the house first.’”

True to his word, Aaron has not only maintained the tradition but he’s also improved upon the sign’s design. In 2015, he unveiled a three-story-tall martini glass (complete with a “stuffed” green olive) that uses LED technology and sports a sleeker, more modern look. And while Aaron himself doesn’t drink, he shakes up a mean martini for his guests.

Local news, powered by readers like you

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Every day, we write PDXtoday with one goal: to help you feel more connected to your city. And we’re not alone — our friends across the US, from Seattle to Tampa Bay, do the same for our 6AM City communities.

We believe in the power of local media to keep the community informed, engaged, and excited about where they live. That’s why our newsletter is and will remain free.

How do we make it sustainable?

We partner with national brands and some of Portland’s best organizations + businesses that support our mission of bringing only good news to your inbox. But we also rely on reader support.

Over the next 10 days, we’re launching a reader-driven campaign to sustain what we do best:

Curating news for every Portlander | Like our ultimate guide to local sushi and this feature on date night ideas
Helping you plan for major events | From festival coverage to our PDXtoday Events section filled with the most-anticipated events in Portland
Maintaining our credibility + trust | Fun fact: Our company has turned down more than a million dollars in political ads since we started

If reading PDXtoday makes an impact on your day, we’d love your support — a little pick-me-up for us, so we can keep the good news coming for you.

Just how bad is the traffic in Portland?

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:23:48 GMT

Forget ghosts and ghouls, Portland traffic might be the scariest thing you’ll face this Halloween. Commuters lost an average of 72 hours to congestion in 2024, according to a new Texas A&M report — up 6% from 2023.

By the numbers

The recent report from Texas A&M Transportation Institute found a trip that would take 20 minutes without traffic takes...

28 minutes with traffic
28 minutes in the peak direction
44 minutes to plan for a punctual arrival

When is the worst time to drive in Portland?

Traffic is at its worst between 3 and 5 p.m. on weekdays. In the morning, 7-8 a.m. can also be dicey.

But the hands-down worst time to commute? 4 p.m. on a Thursday. 2.8% of Portland’s weekly delay happens around then.

When is the best time to drive in Portland?

Technically, that would be around midnight. But if you work a nine-to-five, here’s our advice:

Head to work by 6 a.m. or wait until 9 a.m.
If you can leave work early, head out by 2 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 1 p.m. on Fridays.
If your boss is watching, you’ll need to stay at your desk until at least 6 p.m. Or grab a nearby bite from a happy hour spot, and wait out the traffic until 7 p.m.

What about public transit?

Bus, street car, tram — pick your ride. At least you aren’t footing the gas bill.

Bicycling is also a great option. Good for traffic congestion... and your calves.

PDXtoday’s 2025 holiday gift guide: 90+ finds for everyone you love

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:09:36 GMT

Happy holidays, Portland. We’ve spent hours curating our collection of 2025’s best holiday gifts — from budget picks and standout presents, to local gems and unforgettable experiences. Read on for 90+ gift ideas for everyone on your list, complete with price details and why we think they’re worth unwrapping.

Gifts for your significant other

Including a foot massager and a cozy cardigan.

Graphic by 6AM City

Is it just us, or are partners always the hardest (but usually the most fun) to shop for? Shop our top picks to make them feel warm, cozy, and loved this winter.

Local pick: Date night pottery class | $75+ | Create something beautiful together at this studio and ceramics shop.

Shiatsu foot massager | $79.99 | Nothing says “I love you” like a foot massage — give your hands a break and gift one complete with heat, vibration, and rolling compression.

Bedside lamp with wireless charger and Bluetooth speaker | $59.99 | This elegant night light does it all, from wireless phone charging and music playing, to propping up streaming and e-reading devices.

Local pick: Kitchen Table’s The Full Meal Deal | $60 | If the way to your partner’s heart is through their stomach, pick up some copies of this foodie-focused, Portland-produced magazine. They’ll look gorgeous in your cookbook collection.

Barefoot Dreams blanket wrap | $178 | Elevate cozy holiday moments with a luxurious cardigan that might just be the softest thing they’ve ever draped around them.

Local pick: Langlitz Leathers jacket | Cost tailored to order | It’s a locally made, forever item that you can wear. The 78-year-old Portland business makes custom leather jackets, bags, and accessories for a gift that’s as unique as your relationship.

Women’s UGG Tasman slipper + Men’s UGG Tasman slipper | $124.95+ | UGG perfected the indoor and outdoor slipper with its best-selling, sheepskin-lined Tasman design.

Full-zip flannel jacket | $36.99 | Flannel, cotton, and fleece combine in this ultra-soft, stylish hoodie.

Gifts for parents

Including a spinnable snack box and car backseat organizers.

Graphic by 6AM City

Explore standout finds for parents and families that will save time + space, foster good-natured laughs, and promote rest and recovery.

Local pick: Massage at Knot Springs | $189+ | What’s better than the gift of relaxation? This experience starts with a 75-minute soak in The Springs and follows with a one-hour massage; packages include Swedish massages, treatments with CBD oil or hot stones, and prenatal massages.

Snack organizer | $36.95 | Kids will love this snack spinner’s push button and slidable compartments — and parents will love how it makes snack time portable and stress-free.

Car backseat organizer | $25.99 | Gift parents peaceful car rides thanks to a two-pack of car organizers complete with a clear tablet holder and multiple compartments.

Local pick: OMSI annual membership | $110+ | On top of unlimited admission to the museum, this membership also includes free or discounted admission to the planetarium, submarine, and documentary theatre — perfect for entertaining little ones on rainy days.

Neck and back massager | $59.99 | Parents can’t always carve out time for the spa, but they can pop on this heated, deep tissue massager after a long day.

Daily dad jokes calendar | $13.99 | Make 2026 the year of never-ending puns with over 150 dad jokes in this monthly wall calendar.

Mama bear slippers | $28 | As if these “Mama bear” slippers aren’t cute enough, the insides feature a teddy footbed for maximum softness.

Gifts for retirees

Including a garden kneeler and an ebike.

Graphic by 6AM City

Whether they’re diving into long-awaited passions, trying a new hobby, or simply savoring well-earned relaxation, foster exploration and curiosity with our top gifts for retirees.

Local pick: “Oregon’s Ancient Forests: A Hiking Guide” | $27 | Help your loved ones make the most of their extra time with this guide to exploring the magical natural corners of our beautiful state.

Garden kneeler and stool | $30.90 | Gardening’s more fun without the knee and back pain — we love this all-in-one stool that functions as both a bench and seat + organizes garden tools.

Smart birdfeeder with camera | $99.99 | Birders can watch special visitors up close with this durable and weatherproof birdfeeder.

National Parks puzzle | $24.99 | They can dream about future trips as they put together these 16 individual 100-piece puzzles.

Local pick: Grovemade wool felt Studio Pad | $240 | For those in your life who might be using their home office a little bit more these days, elevate their experience with a locally made desk upgrade. This Studio Pad has lips for holding phones and tablets, cord management slots, and luxe materials.

eBike | $699 | Once they’ve tried pedal assist mode on this 4.6-star rated eBike, they’ll never go back to regular cycling again.

Pickleball set | $49.99 | These fiberglass surface pickleball paddles, grip tape, pickleballs, and portable carriers are the perfect intro gift for those looking to learn the game.

Gifts for students

Including an electric sauté pan and a lap desk.

Graphic by 6AM City

Whether they’re graduating high school or living it up at college, they’ll love showing off these campus-approved gifts in school.

Local pick: Rose City Book Pub gift card | Cost of purchase | Sure, they’re hitting the books enough already, but what’s the harm with a little reading for fun? This Fremont Street favorite has a rotating beer and wine list and often hosts readings, activities, and live music.

Fidget toy pen | $16.99 | A great stocking stuffer, this chromatic, magnetic pen can be stacked into various shapes when it’s not in use as a writing tool or stylus.

Personalized senior 2026 shirt | $14.95 | The perfect fit for students to return from winter break wearing, this customizable sweatshirt will show off their “Class of 2026” pride.

Local pick: Fig + Honey Candle | $36 | This wooden wick, soy wax candle will add the perfect ambiance for a late-night cram session.

Bullet journal pens + 2026 planner | $11.99 + $24.99 | Pair a 24-pack of rainbow pens with a 2026 Happy Planner for creative, aesthetic organization.

Electric sauté pan | $36.99 | A TikTok trending item, this electric mini hot pot is perfect for whipping up noodles, oatmeal, eggs, and stir fries, dorm room-style.

Local pick: Permanent jewelry from Betsy & Iya | $55+ | Show you’re in on the trends by gifting a cherished accessory that could last for years.

Lap desk | $34.99 | This 4.7-star rated lap desk helps students prop up laptops while reclined — it even has a phone holder.

Gifts for young people

Including karaoke microphones and a light-up football.

Graphic by 6AM City

Trying to find the hottest gifts for your grandkids, nieces, and nephews? After doing a little research (and learning a lot about Gen Z and Gen Alpha), these are our top picks for young people.

Local pick: Italian Riviera LEGO Set | $300 | Little builders will love putting together this charming scene featuring a fish vendor + gelato store owner. Plus, it was designed by a Portland teenager.

LED dry erase board | $26.99 | Bring coloring time to a whole new level with this magic board that makes any drawing look like a neon sign.

Karaoke microphone | $19.99 | With over 800 five-star reviews, this karaoke mic acts as a Bluetooth speaker, recorder, and voice changer.

Local pick: Hopscotch | $15+ | This immersive, otherworldly art experience only exists in Portland and San Antonio, and is sure to wow even the most discerning of young artists.

Free People cotton blend sweatshirt | $78 | You can’t go wrong with a versatile, oversized sweatshirt from Free People in colors including Black Cherry and Highlighter.

Digital camera | $49.99 | Is it just us, or is every young person switching from iPhone to digital pictures these days? Gift them a compact, stylish camera to capture photos on.

Light-up football | $39.90 | Backyard football is now possible at night, thanks to this LED light-up football.

Local pick: “The Bunny Ballet” | $18.99 | Pre-order a signed picture book from this award-winning Portland author and receive a free print by the illustrator.*

Gifts for holiday parties and gift exchanges

Including a duck lamp and three pounds of really good salt.

Graphic by 6AM City

Headed to your company’s holiday mixer, your family’s annual gift exchange, or the neighborhood’s white elephant party? This section’s for you. Some of these gifts are practical, while others are just silly.

Local pick: Games for Grown Ups | $28 | These prompts won’t just help you get to know your friends better — they’ll help you get in touch with your inner child.

Computer memo and message board | $6.98 | Perfect for your work bestie, this will help them organize their notes and to-do lists.

“HR Approved Way To Say Things I Can’t Say Out Loud At Work” | $11.99 | This witty collection of “translations” is sure to create some chuckles around the office.

Monopoly Deal | $7.99 | This fun + family-friendly gift is a fast-paced version of the classic Monopoly board game.

Three pounds of really good salt | $51.90 | This one is sure to get some strange looks, but its silliness and sheer practicality might make it the most memorable gift at the party.

Existential crisis duck lamp | $16.99 | This amusing, rechargeable light is cord-free + a cute desk accessory.

Gifts for adventurers

Including portable solar lights and a camp cushion.

Graphic by 6AM City

For those who feel more at home under the open sky than a roof, these gifts will hit the mark — from a top-rated dry bag to a luxe camp cushion that brings indoor comforts to the campfire.

Local pick: A pair of Danner boots | Cost of purchase | These boots produced in Oregon are built to last.

Trekking poles | $29.99 | Hikers will love these lightweight and durable trekking poles that can tackle multiple types of terrain.

Camp cushion | $135 | A plush yet durable cushion that’s ideal for nights by the campfire.

Earthpack waterproof drybag | $19.99 | A true must for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors, this will keep their belongings dry if a freak rainstorm strikes.

Portable solar lights | $80 | Upgrade their campsite setup with these lights that easily switch from ground illumination to string lights.

“Where Should We Camp Next?” National Parks book | $12.95 | Inspire their next great adventure with this guide to 300+ of the best camping and glamping spots in and around national parks.

Gifts for golfers

Including best-selling socks and a magnetic golf towel.

Graphic by 6AM City

Fore! Surprise the match-play aficionado in your life with a gift they can use on or off the green — no ifs, ands, or putts.

Indoor putting green | $64.99 | Golfers won’t be able to resist trying out this 9.5-ft indoor putting green the day they unwrap it.

Frustrated golfer socks | $9.99 | This No. 1 best-selling pair of men’s novelty socks is sure to get a laugh.

Magnetic golf towel | $31.95 | Rated 4.7 stars, this microfiber towel sticks to golf carts or clubs so they won’t lose it around the green.

Golf cooler bag | $25.99 | This slim, compact cooler bag can be stowed in the side pocket of most golf bags and fits up to six beer cans.

Play Nine: The card game of golf | $19.99 | Just like in golf, the lowest score wins in this family-friendly card game with nearly 20,000 glowing reviews.

Gifts for pet lovers

Including a customizeable sweatshirt and a really good water bottle.

Graphic by 6AM City

Whether their best friend is a gentle giant or a tiny furball, these gifts are made for true pet lovers who wouldn’t trade their companion for the world.

Personalized 2026 pet calendar | $23.99 | For that special someone who likes their pet more than people. We don’t judge.

4-in-1 convertible hands-free leash | $46 | This chic and durable leash can be adjusted to wear four different ways.

Backseat cover | $32.99 | A safe and easy-to-clean backseat cover for the person that takes their dog with them everywhere.

Hydropet water bottle | $29.99 | Not your average water bottle, this unique product has dual detachable pet bowls for food + water on the go.

Customizable pet embroidered sweatshirt | $120+ | So they can always keep their fur babies close to their heart.

Gifts for people who have everything

Including a word search blanket and classic hand cream.

Graphic by 6AM City

The hard-to-shop-for crowd — would it truly be the holidays without them? Sure, your mother-in-law might have every juice glass Anthropologie’s ever made — but does she have an olive oil mister?

Local pick: Cascade tote | $109 | If they already have a tote bag, trust us, this one is better.

Wine decanter | $59.99 | Wine lovers will appreciate this handblown glass decanter that features a large area design to foster maximum aeration.

Personalized word search throw blanket | $175 | Talk about a gift that’s one-of-a-kind — customize this blanket with up to 15 words and any theme.

Local pick: Build Your Own Gift Box | Cost of purchase |

Olive oil mister | $9.99 | A handy gift they can use to turn oil into a fine mist or a steady drizzle.

Towel warmer | $146.99 | The only thing better than a warm shower is emerging from said shower with a fresh, hot towel.

Salt & Stone hand cream | $20 | Sometimes it’s simple things that make the best gifts. This top-rated hand cream is sure to impress.

Local pick: OMSI Memberships | Holiday Membership Sale | Early Bird Savings 20% off Nov 22-Dec 1 and 15% off Dec 2-Jan 5 | An OMSI membership opens doors to science adventures and enriching educational experiences year-round.*

Gifts for book lovers

Including a literary quote clock and and a book lover’s advent calendar.

Graphic by 6AM City

Looking for the perfect gift for book worms, that isn’t a book? We’ve got you covered. Shop our list of book-themed gifts that celebrate their favorite pastime.

Local pick: Powell’s gift cards | Cost of purchase | This one seems like a no-brainer, but it’s an obvious choice for a reason.

The Book Lover’s Advent Calendar | $30 | Surprise the bibliophile in your life with this cozy advent calendar filled with reading-themed bookmarks, stickers, and ornaments.

Literary quote clock | $209 | Why tell time the normal way when you could use 13,000 curated literary quotes?

“Reading is my favorite sport” sweatshirt | $52 | Whether they’re rooting for Liz and Mr. Darcy, Feyre and Rhysand, or Violet and Xaden, celebrate the sport they’re always playing.

Local pick: Portland Rose Stump Cork Mug | $26.25 | What’s a good book without a cup of tea or coffee to pair with it?

“To be read” storage basket | $16.99 | Perfect for that friend with an amazing aesthetic bookcase, this TBR book storage basket is both functional and adorable.

Kindle Unlimited membership | $65.95+ | The best thing you can gift a bibliophile? Over four million titles of free books.

Gifts that ship fast

Including pjs and a fun card game.

Graphic by 6AM City

Behind on holiday shopping? We’ve all been there. These thoughtful gifts are available with Prime two-day shipping, so they’ll arrive just in time.

Women’s pajama set | Prices vary on color and pattern | These ultra-soft pjs are available in 40+ colors and patterns, from classic solids to fun holiday patterns.

Genuine leather wallet | $31.88 | Upgrade their worn-out wallet to this stylish + functional one that boasts RFID blocking technology.

Owala FreeSip | $29.98 | This 4.7-star rated water bottle is loved for its patented FreeSip design that allows you to sip upright through a built-in straw or tilt back to swig a gulp.

Satchel crossbody bag | $35.14 | A chic and practical choice for the handbag lover in your life.

Herd Mentality card game | $24.99 | This udderly hilarious + family-friendly card game is a perfect stocking stuffer.

Gifts under $20

Including a fluffy sweatshirt and shower steamers.

Graphic by 6AM City

Holiday magic doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out our favorite festive finds — all $20 or less.

Local pick: Colorful playing cards | $15 | These full-spectrum playing cards will bring some color to your next game night.

Fleece pullover | $7.99 | This oversized fluffy sweatshirt is what cozy winter dreams are made of.

Foldable travel jewelry case | $15.99 | Five different jewelry compartments make it easy to organize rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

Local pick: Green Dream Popcorn Spice | $16 | Save this blend of spices and nutritional yeast to bring out to your next movie night.

Shower steamers | $9.99 | This best-selling assortment features scents like lavender, eucalyptus, and rosemary.

Cast iron burger press | $19.99 | Surprise your foodie friend with this smash burger press that works on skillets, griddles, gas grills, and more.

Best-selling plaid chunky scarf | $14.99 | Elevate their winter wardrobe with this best-selling scarf they’ll use for years to come.

Portland's illuminated martini glass in the West Hills

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:17:00 GMT

A red slash was added to the sign at one point to discourage drunk driving.

Photo by @photosbymikewarner

Local news, powered by readers like you

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Curating news for every Portlander | Like our ultimate guide to local sushi and this feature on date night ideas
Helping you plan for major events | From festival coverage to our PDXtoday Events section filled with the most-anticipated events in Portland
Maintaining our credibility + trust | Fun fact: Our company has turned down more than a million dollars in political ads since we started

If reading PDXtoday makes an impact on your day, we’d love your support — a little pick-me-up for us, so we can keep the good news coming for you.

Just how bad is the traffic in Portland?

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:23:48 GMT

By the numbers

The recent report from Texas A&M Transportation Institute found a trip that would take 20 minutes without traffic takes...

28 minutes with traffic
28 minutes in the peak direction
44 minutes to plan for a punctual arrival

When is the worst time to drive in Portland?

When is the best time to drive in Portland?

Technically, that would be around midnight. But if you work a nine-to-five, here’s our advice:

Head to work by 6 a.m. or wait until 9 a.m.
If you can leave work early, head out by 2 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 1 p.m. on Fridays.
If your boss is watching, you’ll need to stay at your desk until at least 6 p.m. Or grab a nearby bite from a happy hour spot, and wait out the traffic until 7 p.m.

What about public transit?

Bus, street car, tram — pick your ride. At least you aren’t footing the gas bill.

Bicycling is also a great option. Good for traffic congestion... and your calves.

PDXtoday’s 2025 holiday gift guide: 90+ finds for everyone you love

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:09:36 GMT

Gifts for your significant other

Including a foot massager and a cozy cardigan.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for parents

Including a spinnable snack box and car backseat organizers.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for retirees

Including a garden kneeler and an ebike.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for students

Including an electric sauté pan and a lap desk.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for young people

Including karaoke microphones and a light-up football.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for holiday parties and gift exchanges

Including a duck lamp and three pounds of really good salt.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for adventurers

Including portable solar lights and a camp cushion.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for golfers

Including best-selling socks and a magnetic golf towel.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for pet lovers

Including a customizeable sweatshirt and a really good water bottle.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for people who have everything

Including a word search blanket and classic hand cream.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts for book lovers

Including a literary quote clock and and a book lover’s advent calendar.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts that ship fast

Including pjs and a fun card game.

Graphic by 6AM City

Gifts under $20

Including a fluffy sweatshirt and shower steamers.

Graphic by 6AM City

Restaurant Roundup: New and coming-soon restaurants in Portland

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 17:14:10 GMT

Looking for the next new restaurant hitting the Rose City’s food scene? Check out these buzzy places to eat and drink in Portland — plus, some spots coming soon. Keep tabs on this list to stay ahead of the cuisine curve. And don’t forget to bookmark it.

Andiamo Pizzeria, now open in South Waterfront, serves up a variety of wood-fired specialty pies.

Photo provided by Andiamo Pizzeria

September

Andiamo Pizzeria, 672 S. Gaines St. #1 | Pizza
This brand new South Waterfront restaurant serves up wood fired pizza with a global twist: flavors are pulled from destinations including Italy, India, Pakistan, and Thailand. We can’t wait to try the Pakistano, which features garlic cream sauce, tandoori chicken, cilantro, peppers, and a sriracha glaze.

Pamana, 15 NW 4th Ave. | Filipino
The founders of Baon Kainan — which won Eater Portland’s Best New Cart award in 2021 — opened earlier this month inside Old Town’s Hoxton hotel. The residency is only open for six months, so hurry if you want to try dishes like these.

Did we miss a restaurant that opened in September? Let us know.

Alchemy Cider is the second working cidery in Portland.

Photo by Devin White

August

Madrina Cocina Mexicana, 1235 SW Jefferson St. | Mexican
This new downtown spot from Lusdivina De Leon, whose family opened northeast Portland’s Tortilleria y Tienda De Leon’s, is a tribute to Latina women. Menu items include elote asado, quesabirria, and a range of tacos.

Alchemy Cider Co., 818 SE Ankeny St. | Cidery
The cidery’s gothic-style new taproom is the perfect, moody setting for a fall beverage. The space includes reupholstered church pews and offers 30 beers, wines, and ciders on tap.

We certainly wouldn’t mind starting a meal with a bite of Maglia Rosa’s peaches and burrata.

Photo by Devin White

Maglia Rosa, 3010 SE Division St. | Italian
This counter-service restaurant and market opened in the space that was formerly the Bollywood Theater. Expect a seasonal menu featuring bites like foccacia, pastas, and sandwiches.

Recess, 165 NW Park Ave. | Elevated Pacific Northwest cuisine
Recess’ menu takes inspiration from regional ingredients, with delectable dishes including coconut prawns, savory pea panna cotta, and Bavette steak. Don’t skip the brunch menu — we have our eye on the everything avocado toast.

Good Neighbor Cà Phê, 1650 NW 23rd Ave. | Coffee
The sister coffee shop to Portland Cà Phê and Better Days Cafe offers espresso drinks and specialty beverages. You might even be able to get a bánh mì on your visit.

Did we miss a restaurant that opened in August? Let us know.

July

Kachka Fabrika, Bindery Annex, Suite 202 | Seafood
Would you like a two-tiered seafood tower with that cocktail? Kachka Fabrika’s delectable seafood menu pairs well with one of the spot’s six original martinis (or many other house cocktails). Psst — you can also order a vodka flight, while you’re at it.

If you’re been missing Berlu Bakery’s bánh bò nướng, you’re in luck.

Photo by Carter Hiyama

Berlu Bakery, 661 SE Belmont St. | Bakery
After being closed for months, fans of the bakery’s famous bánh bò nướng are once again able to order the treat. Pro tip: Don’t miss the lemongrass and pandan versions.

Bone Sine, 3747 N Mississippi Ave. | Thai
An annex to sister restaurant Rangoon Bistro, Bone Sine’s menu is designed to pair with drinks. Expect upscale takes on bar food + cocktails made with Burmese ingredients.

Did we miss a restaurant that opened in July? Let us know.

The James Beard Public Market is slated to open in summer 2026.

Rendering by BCV Architecture + Interiors

Coming Soon

James Beard Public Market, SW 6th Street and SW Alder Street | Food hall | Projected opening: Summer 2026
The new market — named in honor of the Portland-born cooking school founder — will “showcase Oregon’s agricultural bounty.” Expect to make it your next go-to spot to shop for produce, fish, cheese, meat, and other foods + beverages.

Lil’ Barbecue, location TBA | Barbecue | Projected opening: Early fall
Michelin-starred barbecue? Count us in. The Austin-based joint’s new Portland location will serve its signature brisket, sausages, and pork ribs in Rose City. While a location is yet to be selected, owners plan to bring in two custom, Texas-made smokers.

Still hungry for more? Dig deeper into our food news.

Want to reach Portland locals? Here’s the easiest way to advertise right now

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 20:37:56 GMT

Let’s be honest: advertising can feel like a lot.

Back-and-forth meetings and a whole lot of waiting just to get your advertising efforts started. That’s exactly why we built the 6AM City Self-Service Ad Portal: a refreshingly simple way to get your brand in front of thousands of engaged Portland readers — on your time, your terms, and without the usual slowdown.

Whether you’re a small business looking for a quick awareness boost or a growing brand ready to dive into a new market, our portal is here to help you connect with the community, minus the fuss.

Advertising. Simplified.

Our 6AM City Self-Service Ad Portal is built with busy people in mind (like you). It’s available 24/7 and lets you browse, purchase, and schedule local ads directly in just a few clicks.

Want to launch a campaign while sipping your morning coffee? Go for it. Prefer midnight marketing decisions? We don’t judge.

And hey, if you’d rather have a full-service experience, our sales team is just a message away — perfect for bulk buys or high-touch creative planning.

Big reach, local impact

We’re proud to say we don’t just talk to Portland — we are Portland. Our audience is made up of locals who care about what’s happening here: new restaurants, neighborhood updates, festivals, community stories (and yes, your brand too).

Here’s who you’ll reach:

40,090 newsletter subscribers
42,190 social followers

Read: It’s hyper-local advertising with major ROI potential.

What can you advertise? Pretty much everything.

Whether you want to boost visibility, drive traffic, or promote a specific event or product, we’ve got options that fit every goal (and budget):

Branded content without the burnout

You’ve got the goods, and our Client Success Team got the words. We take your assets, spin them into scroll-stopping stories, and serve them up to your ideal audience.

Mini Article (Newsletter Promo): 75 words, three links, and an image.Starting at $1,000
Text Ad: A short and sweet 50-word blurb — with up to two links — in the newsletter of your choice.$300–$500

Digital display

Email Header: The first thing readers see when they open our daily newsletter.$500–$1,000
Banner Ad: Seamlessly integrated into the reader’s flow.$250–$500

Social media

Feed Post (IG + FB): Your message amplified on our social channels.$500–$1,000
Instagram Story Slide: For maximum swipe-up potential.$400

Pro tip: Check out our limited-time Branded Content and Display bundles (20% off).

How it works (spoiler: it’s easy)

Pick your city(ies) and product(s).
Submit your assets (or let our team handle it).
Schedule and go live.

Need performance data? Just ask — we’ll have it ready about a week after your ad runs.

Prefer the VIP experience?

Our portal is DIY-friendly, but if you’re planning a multi-city campaign or want concierge-level support, our sales team designs campaigns for a living and would be happy to help. Contact them.

Check out what our clients have to say about it:

I wish all advertising was this easy! 6AM City makes securing ads for their newsletters straightforward, transparent, and low stress. Plus, the customer service element is still there! I couldn’t recommend it more.

Best,

Alana Claxton

Marketing Director Banker Exchange

-

Hello!

Last week you featured a unique rooftop property and as a result our adult children contacted their realtor and toured it for themselves. If you occasionally feature unusual listings, perhaps you would consider this one:

It never hurts to ask. Thank you for considering.

Cheryl & Tim Alessi

Ready to reach your city?

Start advertising with the people who know Portland, OR, best. Click below to explore our 6AM City Self-Service Ad Portal and get your campaign up and running in a matter of two weeks or less.

Get started.

The ultimate guide to sushi restaurants in Portland, from casual bites to special nights

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 22:06:00 GMT

We’ve been fishing around and Portland is swimming in sushi. From trendy menus to laidback atmospheres, we’ve rounded up some top spots to score sushi.

Keep it casual

Hamono Sushi, 620 SW Ninth Ave.
DYK: Sushi is historically a casual finger food? Hamono Sushi, an out-of-the-way downtown place with just 20 dining spots, is the ideal scene for those that want to sit back and ride the sushi wave. Their specialty omakase — which means “I’ll leave it up to you” in Japanese — is a more affordable alternative to many other omakase services.

Mizu Sushi, 1338 SW Third Ave.
This lovely little hole-in-the-wall place serves generous portions and is perfectly located to take the sushi to a picnic at the waterfront.

Ricky’s Sushi, 8220 NE Davis St.
The little silver + red food cart is tucked into The Yard at Montavilla and is definitely a place worth visiting. With a huge menu, it serves nearly every taste; customers praise its vegan Okra Roll and the calamari options.

Sushi & Friends, 1927 SW Fourth Ave.
The mandala-like sushi arrangements here are almost too beautiful to be eaten on the streets. But satisfy all your senses by ordering one of these skillfully decorated sushi options.

Celebrate with sushi

Bamboo Sushi, Multiple locations
Bamboo Sushi is the perfect place to make the moment special. With a modern and wooden high-class interior, roll-creations like “The Unicorn” + “Garden of Eden,” plus Oregon-produced sake, it has all the ingredients for a perfect night out.

Bluefin Tuna & Sushi, 1337 NE Broadway St.
If you want to impress your entourage with a feast-for-the-eyes sushi menu, Bluefin Tuna & Sushi is the place to be. Its beautifully decorated sushi plates get your eyes shining and your mouth watering.

Janken, 250 NW 13th Ave.
Dining on fresh nigiri beneath the white tree certainly makes for a festive atmosphere, perfect for making memories on special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.

A feast for the mouth and the eyes | Photo via @jess.pdx

Photo by @jankenpdx + @thomasteal

Bang for your buck

Saburo’s, 1667 SE Bybee Blvd.
Who says sushi has to be expensive? Check out Saburo’s big two-piece nigiris that come at a very reasonable price — and will leave you feeling pretty stuffed.

Sensei Sushi Bar & Grill, 710 SW Second Ave.
At this place it is all about the friendly staff combined with good quality at low prices. Keep on rollin’ as we would put it.

Rollin’ Fresh, 1080 SE Madison St.
Want to roll differently? Head to this Sellwood food cart mainstay and get your sushi wrapped up burrito-style with creations like the “Portlandia” or “City of Roses.”

Yama Sushi & Sake Bar, 926 NW 10th Ave.
An underrated element of the sushi experience? The booze. Yama Sushi & Sake Bar keeps the drinks flowing with Sake Tinis or sake flights. Every first Thursday you can join their sake tasting night.

Branch out

Izakaya Kichinto, 102 NE Russell St.
If you’re looking to get out of your sushi rut and try other kinds of Japanese cuisine, try dining at Izakaya Kichinto. This place serves cutting-edge Japanese pub-food, like handmade ramen noodles, yakimono skewers, and of course, sushi.

Shigezo Izakaya, 910 SW Salmon St.
Ambience is on point at this restaurant, which has paper lanterns and offers the option to eat your food the traditional way — seated on the floor. With just one chef preparing the cuisine, settle in for a relaxing slow dining experience.

Sushi Ichiban, 24 NW Broadway St.
Also known as conveyor belt sushi, this style of service is popular in Japan. Sit at Sushi Ichiban’s bar and let the little sushi train bring the fish to you.

Kaizen Sushi, 40 SW Third Ave.
It sounds like a contradiction, but vegetarian sushi is delicious (technically the word “sushi” just refers to the rice part). Try out Kaizen’s vegetarian rolls Natto or Ume Shisho — fermented soybeans or pickled plum with Japanese mint.

Date night ideas for every type of Portlander

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 20:28:00 GMT

Kids, this is the story of how I met your mother, and it was all thanks to PDXtoday.

OK, so maybe that’s not exactly how the 2000s sitcom went, but if Ted Mosby had consulted us for date night ideas, we could’ve shaved the show down to two seasons (and saved his kids a lot of time). Regardless — whether you’ve met “the one” or are hoping to impress someone new, we’ve got 45+ local date night ideas that are legen — wait for it — dary.

Evening and brunch shows are scheduled every weekend at Darcelle XV Showplace.

Photo by Another Believer

For the ones who want a night out on the town

Live it up at the longest-running drag cabaret on the West Coast, Darcelle XV Showplace, founded by the late Walter Cole.
Descend into the Jack London Revue — a small hideaway jazz club that hosts world-class musicians.
Move your feet and spend some dynamic time with your partner at Southeast Portland nightclub, Holocene.
Step into The Coffin Club for a concert, burlesque show, or tarot reading surrounded by gothic decor.
Head to a renovated former church — Mississippi Studios — for an intimate live music experience.
See your date in a new, psychedelic light at the indoor, all-ages playground/immersive art experience Hopscotch.

Sure, sharing food can be romantic — but you’ll want a whole pizza to yourself when you visit The Turning Peel.

Photo by Cambrie Juarez, PDXtoday

If the way to their heart is through their stomach

Does your significant other love bagels? Could they eat pasta for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? Learn to make their favorite food by taking a class at Cookshop.
Nosh on farm-to-table European small plates at Navarre.
Set love ablaze with a flaming scorpion bowl at tropical-themed dive, The Alibi Tiki Lounge.
Pedal your way around Portland’s craft beer scene with a BrewCycle ride.
Get a scoop of New Zealand-style ice cream at Nico’s Ice Cream, or skip the line of tourists at Salt & Straw by picking up a pint to go. Grab a couple of sampling spoons so you can enjoy it together while sitting on a bench.
Take the relationship to new heights at The Hoxton’s trendy rooftop bar, Tope.
Get cozy and sip a glass of wine in a candlelit nook at M Bar.
Sit under the pale silk petals of a decorative cherry tree while eating Japanese-Korean fusion dishes at Janken.
Show off your knowledge of trendy local restaurants with equally fresh menus + drinks at G-Love, or its sister bar, The Love Shack. Their names alone will win hearts.
Bond over sourdough pizzas and scratch-made limeade under the lantern-lit, grape-vine-covered patio at The Turning Peel.

“What’s in a name? A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Thanks for the line, Will.

Photo by Ben McBee, PDXtoday

If you love the great outdoors

Choose your adventure with a hike in Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States.
Spread out a picnic blanket, bring some snacks, and watch a sunset at Skidmore Bluffs.
Stroll beneath massive, concrete arches and take a self-guided tour of the resident trees at Cathedral Park.
Need a subtle excuse to spend time with a crush? Get your canine companions together for a play date at a dog park.
Quote Shakespeare while strolling through fragrant blooms at the International Rose Test Garden or Peninsula Park Rose Garden.
Get to know the other person at their sweatiest with a PDXtoday Hike of the Month.
Learn about your date’s artistic tastes with a self-guided stroll along the Portland Street Art Loop Hike.
Get to know your date and the plants living near you with an urban foraging class from Rewild Portland.

It won’t be “game over” when you take your date to Next Level Pinball Museum.

Photo by Cambrie Juarez, PDXtoday

For the ones who like to play games (just not with your heart)

Test your competitive compatibility with an evening of pub trivia. Try Untapped Trivia, which supports Family Dogs New Life Animal Shelter.
At Portland Axe Throwing, you can demonstrate your usefulness in a zombie apocalypse by hucking weapons at wooden targets while holding an IPA in the other hand.
Show your shared love for a local sports team at a home game for the Trail Blazers, Timbers, Thorns, or Pickles, to name a few.
Bring your appetite and a board game to Mox Boarding House. You can also borrow a game from the restaurant’s library, or buy a brand-new one from the shop attached to the restaurant.
Up for some friendly, 8-bit competition? Pocket a bottle of hand sanitizer and indulge in vintage video gaming at Ground Kontrol or Next Level Pinball Museum.

Pop-up picnics at Abbey Road Farm in Carlton start at $239.

Photo by Abbey Road Farm

If you’re really hoping that it works out

Show off your ability to plan ahead by snagging a hard-to-get reservation at Kann, aka America’s “Best New Restaurant” in 2023.
Watch Portland’s famed — and free — avian show as thousands of migrating Vaux’s swifts make their annual stop at Chapman Elementary School. With so many birds, the odds of getting pooped on are high… and some consider that a sign of good fortune.
You and your date won’t want to jump ship after spending time together on the river. Book a sailing adventure or rent a kayak, Jet Ski, pontoon boat, and more through GetMyBoat.
Find out what falling (in love) really feels like by mastering the wind tunnels at iFLY Indoor Skydiving.
Plan a picnic — or let professionals plan one for you.
Get crafty together at Creative Culture, a DIY craft studio loaded with fun ways to pass an hour or two. If that’s not enough to tempt you into an artsy undertaking, know that you can also order milkshakes topped with whole slices of cheesecake.
Enjoy some TLC together by getting a couple’s facial at The Jungle Room, the hidden spa in the back of plant and wellness business BOSK.

If you visit Lloyd Center Ice Rink during the holidays, you’ll get to skate around a massive Christmas tree complete with falling snow.

Photo by Cambrie Juarez, PDXtoday

If you want an “old fashioned”-style date

Take your significant other out for dinner and a movie at one of Portland’s independent dinner and beer theaters, like the iconic Hollywood Theatre, the artsy Laurelhurst Theater, Living Room Theaters (which is 21+ in the evening), or the historic Clinton Street Theater.
Bask in the retro nostalgia at Stepping Stone Cafe, which started as a soda fountain in the 1940s.
Buckle up and head to 99W Drive-in Theater in Newberg for a double feature from the comfort of your car.
Pretend you’re in a Hallmark movie by going ice skating any time of the year at Lloyd Center Ice Rink.

This exact spot in Irving Park is practically begging to witness a romantic moment.

Photo by Cambrie Juarez, PDXtoday

If fall always makes you fall in love

Plan a tour of Portland’s unbe-leaf-ably beautiful fall foliage hotspots. The leaves are dead but the chemistry won’t be.
Wander through neighborhoods that are particularly magnificent during autumn, like Goose Hollow and Nob Hill, leaving time to pop into shops and restaurants.
Pick pumpkins at a local farm to carve and decorate together. You can learn so much about a person from their jack-o'-lantern choices.
Take a drive through the Hood River Fruit Loop, where you’ll find a bushel of orchards offering u-pick apples.
Get lost in a corn maze and find out who has the better sense of direction (aka self-preservation escape skills).
Step into an alternate Halloween-themed reality circa the late 1990s with a trip to Halloweentown.
Discover a shared appreciation for unique spectacles at the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta.

If you wanna show off by knowing all the hottest events in town

Shameless plug: Sign up for our daily newsletter, where we call out our top picks of things to do around town. Your date doesn’t have to know we’re behind it, you can take all the credit.
Stay up-to-date on the coolest local events around Portland with our events page (and check out this guide for our tips on navigating the page).

What did we miss? If you know a perfect date spot that’s not on the list, point us in the right direction.

All you need to know about Portland International Airport

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Traveling via plane is fun — jet-setting over beautiful blue waters or rolling hills, taking in cloud formations, and landing in a completely different location in a matter of hours is unlike anything else.

The whole navigating the airport part? Less exciting, and sometimes pretty stressful. To help make your time at Portland International Airport as smooth as possible, we’ve created a guide that covers everything from gates and parking to details on some of the airport’s nonstop flights.

The new start to your travels.

Photo via Port of Portland/Josh Kulla

Current airport updates

If you’ve been to Portland International Airport recently, you’ve likely seen construction on its new main terminal — complete with a 9-acre Douglas fir ceiling, 49 skylights, trees that recreate “a walk through the forest.” It’s all part of a $2 billion investment to improve and grow PDX, which already expanded Concourse E, updated Concourse B, and consolidated the ground transit system.

This multi-phase development is expected to be completed in December 2025, but Phase 1 landed last August with:

New check-in counters reoriented into four “islands”
A streamlined security process
New exhibits showcasing local artists
Pre-security stadium seating, a mezzanine restaurant, and new restrooms
The ability to get to all four concourses post-security
14 local restaurants, shops, and kiosks, including local favorites like Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Loyal Legion, and Powell’s Books, in addition to larger brands like Pendleton and Columbia
An old favorite — PDX’s beloved teal carpet

Did you even visit PDX if you didn’t take a photo like this?

Photo by Travis.Thurston

PDX is still working on Phase 2, meaning construction walls will remain in the main terminal until both phases are open. The ongoing construction allows for fewer flight reductions and delays, but means travelers may face detours.

PDX recommends allotting extra time for your travels, and your experience may look different during construction thanks to relocated bathrooms and longer detours to access Concourses B and E. Arriving passengers will also need to follow temporary, rerouted exit lanes.

Phase 2 will add more exits and escalators to baggage claim, additional all-user restrooms, new mosaic art, and waiting areas. It will also bring the total number of new retailers to 24, with shops opening through early 2026.

Two new video walls will display a 24-hour art installation with Oregon-inspired landscapes that change according to the time of day, the weather, and how many people are traveling through PDX.

Photo via Port of Portland

What to know

Parking | Not everyone has a bestie who will drop everything to pick them up from their 3 a.m. landing. Each lot and garage costs $4 an hour; beyond that, the price per day ranges from $15-$30 per day. PDX also recommends Broadway Cab Company, TriMet MAX, or Caravan Airport Transportation if you’d prefer a shuttle, rideshare, or taxi service.
TSA | According to the PDX website, travelers should arrive at the airport two hours before a domestic flight during the busy early morning hours, or three hours before an international flight. Use this handy tool to check security wait times.
Map it out | If you’re like us and need to completely visualize a place before you step foot inside, these maps of the entire airport will be your saving grace.
Food and drink | From Southern comfort food at Screen Door to craft beer at Deschutes Brewery, Portland International Airport is home to a plethora of acclaimed eatery outposts. We put together a list of restaurants and where to find them within the airport.
Reminder | As of May 7, 2025, you now need a REAL ID (or another acceptable form of identification, like a valid passport) to board commercial flights in the US.
Flight status | While we recommend staying updated via your respective airline, you can also check the airport’s dashboard for your flight status in a pinch.

Smile, it’s Stumptown.

Photo by @tyler.hamilton

Nonstop flights

PDX offers 70 nonstop flights — 59 domestic, plus 11 international flights to six countries.

Bonus: Get lower fares by signing up for Going. You’ll get emailed when flights are 40-90% cheaper than usual. Get a two-week free trial of the Premium plan, which lets you set custom destination flight alerts (score).

Pro tip: Remember that flight times and schedules will often change — you should rely on your respective airline for exact timing and to stay updated on any changes.

Amsterdam | Royal Dutch Airlines
Austin | Alaska Airlines
Cancun | Alaska Airlines
Frankfurt | Condor
Ft. Lauderdale | Alaska Airlines
Honolulu | Alaska Airlines
Keflavik | Icelandair
London | British Airways
Puerto Vallarta | Alaska Airlines

Save the Dates: 21 big events coming to Portland in 2025

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 23:24:00 GMT

Wooo-weee. Between the Portland Rose Festival, Pickaton and other festivals, 2025 is already shaping up to be quite the year for Portland.

It’s time to start marking your calendars —here are the events catching our eye this year.

Portland Saturday Market Opening Day

Saturday, March 1
Considered to be the largest continually operating arts and crafts fair in the US, this spectacular bazaar is returning to Tom McCall Waterfront for its 51st year with 150+ vendors. Check it out every Saturday, rain or shine.

Mardi Gras Celebration

Tuesday, March 4
Get ready to catch some beads at this giant, free, and family-friendly parade. Festivities kick off at 7 p.m. with several businesses along the parade route offering special deals on drinks, desserts, and more.

Be sure to wear something green — no one likes getting pinched.

Photo by Kells Irish Festival

Portland’s Irish Festival

Friday, March 14-Monday, March 17
Cheer for local boxers as they take on Irish fighters, join the Shamrock Run, watch Irish dancing and bagpiping, and imbibe a pint or two at Oregon’s largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Paddy’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Monday, March 17
From the festival that made the world’s largest Irish coffee in 2023 comes a giant tent full of bagpiping, Irish whiskey, Guinness, Irish dancing, and green-hued fun at Paddy’s Bar and Grill.

Tulips to the horizon.

Photo by Ben McBee, PDXtoday

Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

Late March to mid-May
More than 1 million tulips representing 100+ varieties create a 40-acre, multi-color dreamland to explore.

Portland Rose Festival

Friday, May 23-Sunday, June 8
The long-running city tradition bursts into bloom every May; highlights include CityFair, Fleet Week, parades of flower-laden floats, a “queen’s court” of local high school students, and the Milk Carton Boat Race.

Festival of Balloons

Friday, June 20-Saturday, June 22
Every year, Tigard’s Cook Family Park hosts the Festival of Balloons, and even when gusty conditions ground hopes to see the colorful craft in full flight, attendees are still treated to a candlestick glow (igniting the burner without the envelope attached) and some tethered rides. There is also a carnival with live music, absolutely enormous corn dogs, and plenty of vendors.

The music is electric and the show is pyrotechnic at the Waterfront Blues Festival.

Photo courtesy of Waterfront Blue Festival

Waterfront Blues Festival

Friday, July 4-Saturday, July 5
Happiness is sitting by the river taking in shows from a comfy lawnchair. Headliners have yet to be released for this year’s fest, so stay tuned for updates.

Summer Free For All

Thursday, July 10-Saturday, Aug. 30
More than three dozen free events will take place across Portland, ranging from screenings of kids’ classics like “The Sandlot” to arts festivals. Take a look at the full calendar.

Portland Pride Festival & Parade

Saturday, July 19 + Sunday, July 20
Expect a weekend chock-full with exhibitions, vendors, entertainment on multiple stages, and lots and lots of community.

Pickathon Music Festival

Friday, Aug. 1-Monday, Aug. 4
Expect to be introduced to a wide variety of new artists at this “experiential music festival.”

Vanport Jazz Festival

Friday, Aug. 1-Saturday, Aug. 2
This festival is named in honor of Black Oregonians who moved to Portland after being displaced by a flood in 1948. “Discover the legacy” of those early Portland jazz artists with a lineup including Jon B. and Norman Brown.

Hood & Portland To Coast Relay

Friday, Aug. 22-Saturday, Aug. 23
The largest running/walking relay race in the world traverses 196 miles of Oregon, starting at Mount Hood and ending on the coast. The route passes through the heart of Portland, so feel free to do some cheering.

Time-Based Art Festival

Thursday, Sept. 4-Sunday, Sept. 14

This nearly two-week long multidisciplinary arts festival by the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art includes art in many forms, ranging from experimental operas to performance lectures.

Rose City Comic Con

Friday, Sept. 5-Sunday, Sept. 7

“Stranger Things” star David Harbour is one of just many familiar faces you might see at the biggest pop culture convention in PDX.

Are you a kölsch kind of person or a dunkel? All are welcome at Edgefield’s Oktoberfest.

Photo courtesy of McMenamins