The sun sparkles off the Willamette River, fluffy clouds drift high above the St. Johns Bridge, and the heady aroma of flowers floats on the breeze. Winter is behind us; the sun-drenched days of summer are ahead.
Making the most of these warm months is a delicate balancing act — and carving out time to slow down and relax is crucial. We came up with a simple itinerary for a laid-back summer day in Portland to help in that endeavor.
Morning
Swap your slippers for Birkenstocks and head to Either/Or in the Boise neighborhood. Wake up nice and slow with a creamy chai latte or cold brew. Hungry? Try the breakfast tacos. Pro tip: If one stop is your max for the day, camp out and take advantage of the cocktail menu and lunch items.
Midday
Enjoy a leisurely lunch or early happy hour at Grape Ape , a new wine bar on the Central Eastside. It opens at 11 a.m. every day (it’s closed on Mondays) and has indoor and outdoor seating, low-alcohol cocktails, and small plates ranging from marinated white beans to jambon-beurre baguettes.
Afternoon
Take a dip and enjoy the Willamette River — without actually having to get into the river — from the bubbling comfort of your own personal floating spa from Yacht Tubs . Want to spend time waterside without spending money? Rest your feet at Lovejoy Fountain Park , which is hidden from street view.
Evening
Dim the lights and wind down with dinner and a movie at Studio One Theaters in the Richmond neighborhood. See a first-run film in one of the “multiplex” theater’s seven themed rooms and order food and drinks delivered to your seat. Pro tip: Enjoy brunch and a $5 movie on the weekends, from 8 a.m.-12 p.m.