Pioneer Courthouse Square, a 40,000 square foot public space in the middle of downtown.
Things To Do
As Oregon's largest city, Portland has a rich cultural tradition and plenty of places to go and things to see. During your down time at the convention, check out some of these spots:
Safeway Waterfront Blues Festival
See dozens of performers, take a blues cruise down the Willamette River and enjoy the largest July 4th fireworks display in Oregon during this four day festival on Portland's beautiful waterfront. More Information
Gates open at 11 a.m. each day; the music runs from noon to 10 p.m.
Yamhill District is the nearest MAX stop.
Oregon Vietnam Veterans Memorial
From the website: “Inspired by the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC, in 1982, a group Oregon Vietnam veterans conceived of the idea of a veterans memorial in Oregon. Through the efforts of many volunteers on behalf of the Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial Fund, the memorial was dedicated in 1987. Designed by Walker Macy, a Portland landscape architecture firm, the curved black granite wall lists the names of all Oregon residents who died in Vietnam or who are missing in action. The wall also chronicles three years of the conflict and concurrent local events, providing a poignant contrast.”
Open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Take the MAX Red Line from the Convention Center and exit at Washington Park
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
Modelled after the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, Portland's “OMSI” is full of educational and interactive exhibits, including a guided tour of the USS Blueback submarine. The propeller has been removed from the submarine and is now part of a National Submarine Memorial outside of the museum. Learn more about the OMSI at the museum's official website.
Open Tuesday—Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Take the #6 (MLK Blvd) bus from the convention center to Hawthorne Bridge, then walk 5 minutes down Water St.
Portland Art Museum
With a collection of more than 40,000, the Portland Art Museum is hailed as one of the region's greatest cultural treasures. Established in 1892, the museum now boasts pieces by Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh. As the convention approaches, check out the museum's site for information on current exhibits.
Open 10 a.m. (12 p.m. on Sunday) to 5 p.m., with extended hours until 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed Monday.
Only a 15 minute ride from the convention center on the #6 bus
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Portland Parks and Recreation says about the Rhododendron Garden: “The more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and companion plants in the Garden have all been donated by volunteers and interested individuals, or purchased with specially donated funds. Beginning in early spring and continuing into summer, they provide a magnificent display of color, giving visitors the opportunity to view many varieties rarely seen in the Pacific Northwest. During the fall, many companion trees add dramatic coloring. Spring-fed Crystal Springs Lake surrounds much of the garden, attracting many species of birds and waterfowl.”
Open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
From the convention center, take a #10 bus to SE Woodstock and SE 28th.
You may be better off taking a cab to this attraction, as the 40-minute bus ride does not take the most direct route.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
The Portland Parks and Recreation site is a great guide to happenings all over the city's outdoor spaces. Be sure to check it as the convention date approaches to see what special events are going on around town.
Other Resources
Wikitravel.org has an excellent Portland travel guide, written by locals with exclusive tips you won't find in printed guides.
