After months of craving a change of pace, I traded the East Coast bustle of Pennsylvania for Portland’s laid-back vibe and lush greenery—and from the moment I landed, I knew I had made the right choice. This was the beginning of my Portland 4-day itinerary, and Day 1 promised a perfect mix of delicious food, tranquil gardens, and the city’s signature slow charm.
Day 1: A Warm Welcome—Lunch, Parks & First Impression of the City
Landing in Portland: A Coast-to-Coast Escape
My Spirit Airlines flight from Baltimore touched down in Portland just around noon. Even through the plane’s window, the landscape looked refreshingly different—lush forests, snow-capped peaks in the distance, and not a high-rise in sight. The air felt cooler, cleaner, calmer. It was my first time in Oregon, and I already felt grounded.
After grabbing the rental car and dropping my bags at the hotel (I chose a cozy boutique stay at Hotel Sentinel in downtown Portland for its walkability), I was ready to start with my Portland Itinerary for Day 1.
A Flavorful Welcome: Lunch at Nicholas Restaurant
Our first stop was Nicholas Restaurant, a place I’d bookmarked weeks ago and couldn’t wait to try. Located in Southeast Portland, Nicholas is a family-owned gem known for its Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. Walking in, the warm, spice-scented air hit us instantly, and we were greeted with that signature Portland friendliness.
We ordered:
- Chicken Shawarma Plate – juicy, perfectly seasoned, and served with fluffy rice and warm pita.
- Lamb Kebabs – grilled to perfection with a tangy garlic sauce and crunchy pickles.
- And of course, a side of hummus and fresh-baked pita that was pillowy and golden.
The food was generous, fresh, and flavorful—the kind of meal that comforts you after a long journey. It was a perfect first bite of Portland’s vibrant culinary scene.
Washington Park: A Natural Escape in the Heart of the City
After lunch, we headed to Washington Park, just a short drive from downtown. Sprawling over 400 acres, this urban oasis is home to gardens, museums, trails, and even a zoo.
We parked near the entrance and wandered along the leafy trails, pausing to admire the quiet beauty all around us. Towering Douglas firs, soft pine-needle paths, and the occasional squirrel hopping by—it was a peaceful escape that made me forget I was still in a major city.
We passed by the International Rose Test Garden (unfortunately not in full bloom yet), and it reminded me of just how connected Portland is to nature. The sounds of traffic were replaced by chirping birds and crunching gravel. It was exactly what I needed to reset.
Next Stop: Portland Japanese Garden
Just next door was one of my most anticipated stops: the Portland Japanese Garden. Often praised as the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan, this place was like walking into a postcard. Admission was around $21 for adults, and trust me—it’s worth every penny.
We took our time exploring:
- The Flat Garden with its raked gravel and subtle simplicity.
- The Strolling Pond Garden, where koi swam beneath wooden bridges.
- And The Tea Garden, serene and shaded, where the air felt sacred.
I found a quiet bench under a maple tree and sat for a few minutes, just listening to the leaves rustling and the gentle sound of water. It’s not often I feel this peaceful while traveling, but the garden made it easy.
Tips for a Day in Portland, Oregon
- Book early if flying budget: Spirit Airlines offers great rates from Baltimore, but book early for better seats and bag options.
- Eat local: Nicholas Restaurant is a must, but Portland has an incredible food truck scene worth exploring too.
- Bring walking shoes: Washington Park and the Japanese Garden are large, and you’ll want to explore at your own pace.
- Take it slow: Portland invites you to slow down. Don’t try to cram too much—just breathe, wander, and enjoy.
As the sun began to set, we returned to downtown Portland, grabbed coffee from a local café (Heart Coffee Roasters—highly recommend), and strolled around the Pearl District. The city buzzed quietly around us—people biking, musicians playing on the corners, small shops twinkling with fairy lights.
It was only Day 1 of the Portland Itinerary, and I already felt deeply connected to Portland’s pace, people, and personality.
Next up on the blog: Day 2 takes us to the magical Oregon Waterfalls Loop, where we explored 05 beautiful waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge. Stay tuned!
