Things you didn’t know about Portland go far beyond its quirky reputation. Portland has become a trendy place to talk about in recent years. Even if you’ve never been, you probably have an impression of what Portland is like thanks to popular TV shows like Portlandia. While many of the jokes about Portland are spot on, there’s a lot to learn. Here are 15 things you didn’t know about Portland.
15 Things You Didn’t Know About Portland
Here are 15 things you didn’t know about Portland:
1. Portland Has More Breweries Than Any Other City in the World
Portland continues to hold its title as the beer capital of the world, with over 70 breweries operating in the metro area. The city’s craft beer scene thrives on innovation, with local favorites such as Breakside Brewery, Great Notion Brewing, and Deschutes Brewery pushing the limits of flavor. Portland’s annual Oregon Brewers Festival remains one of the country’s largest celebrations of craft beer.
2. It’s Home to the World’s Smallest Park
At just two feet in diameter, Mill Ends Park holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s smallest park. Originally intended as a site for a light pole, it was transformed into a tiny green space by journalist Dick Fagan in 1948. Today, this quirky attraction is one of Portland’s many unique urban oddities.
3. Portland’s Food Cart Scene Is One of the Best in the Country
With over 500 food carts across the city, Portland has one of the most diverse and innovative street food scenes in the U.S. Food cart pods like Hawthorne Asylum, Cartopia, and The Lot at Scout Beer serve everything from Korean barbecue to vegan comfort food. The city’s dedication to local, sustainable, and creative cuisine keeps food lovers coming back for more.
4. Powell’s City of Books Is the Largest Independent Bookstore in the World
Spanning an entire city block, Powell’s City of Books houses over a million books across multiple floors. Book lovers can get lost in its endless shelves, attend author readings, and browse rare and out-of-print editions. The store remains one of Portland’s most beloved landmarks for locals and visitors alike.
5. Portland Has a Volcano Within City Limits
Mt. Tabor, an extinct volcanic cinder cone, sits in the heart of Portland. This urban park offers panoramic views of the city, miles of hiking and biking trails, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s one of the few cities in the U.S. where you can hike on an ancient volcano without leaving the city.
6. The City’s Bridges Give It the Nickname “Bridgetown”
Portland’s 12 iconic bridges span the Willamette River, each with a unique design and history. The St. Johns Bridge, a striking Gothic-style suspension bridge, is a favorite among photographers, while the Tilikum Crossing is the country’s largest car-free bridge, exclusively for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit.
7. Voodoo Doughnut Wasn’t Portland’s First Doughnut Shop
While Voodoo Doughnut is famous for its wild and wacky creations, Portland’s doughnut obsession goes back much further. Locals also swear by Blue Star Donuts, which specializes in brioche-based gourmet treats, and Annie’s Donut Shop, a classic spot for old-fashioned donuts. Portland’s doughnut scene is just as diverse as its food culture.
8. It’s a Haven for Bicyclists
Portland is consistently ranked as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S. With over 400 miles of bikeways, the city offers dedicated bike lanes, scenic riverfront paths, and events like Pedalpalooza, a month-long summer cycling festival. The city’s commitment to cycling infrastructure makes it easy to get around without a car.
9. Portland Is a Leader in Sustainable Living
Named one of America’s greenest cities, Portland prioritizes sustainability through urban planning, public transportation, and eco-conscious initiatives. The city leads in green building design, composting programs, and farm-to-table dining. It also boasts one of the highest rates of public transit use in the country, reducing its carbon footprint significantly.
10. The International Rose Test Garden Showcases Over 10,000 Roses
Portland’s International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park is home to over 10,000 rose bushes from around the world. As the City of Roses, Portland’s climate provides the perfect environment for these flowers to thrive. Visitors can stroll through the garden for free while enjoying one of the most breathtaking views of downtown Portland and Mt. Hood.
11. Portland Has No Sales Tax
One of the biggest perks for shoppers in Portland is that Oregon has no sales tax. Whether you’re buying books, electronics, or dining out, the price you see is the price you pay. This makes Portland a great destination for tax-free shopping.
12. Portland’s Iconic Drinking Fountains Are Called “Benson Bubblers”
Scattered throughout downtown Portland, the Benson Bubblers are iconic four-bowl drinking fountains that have been providing free, fresh water to residents since the early 1900s. Originally commissioned by businessman Simon Benson, these fountains are a charming and functional part of Portland’s landscape.
13. Vancouver, Washington, Gets Less Rain Than You Think
While Portland and Vancouver have a reputation for being rainy, Vancouver actually gets less annual rainfall than cities like New York, Boston, and Atlanta. The region experiences long dry summers with plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities despite its drizzly reputation.
14. The Shanghai Tunnels Are a Creepy Piece of Portland’s History
Beneath Portland’s Old Town, a network of Shanghai Tunnels runs under the city’s streets. In the 19th century, these tunnels were allegedly used for illicit activities, including kidnapping people for forced labor—known as “shanghaiing.” Today, guided tours take visitors through these eerie passages for a glimpse into Portland’s dark past.
15. Portland Is Home to the Largest Naked Bike Ride in the World
Every year, thousands of cyclists participate in Portland’s World Naked Bike Ride, part of a global movement promoting cycling, body positivity, and environmental awareness. The event, which attracts massive crowds, is a true testament to Portland’s quirky and free-spirited culture.
With its mix of natural beauty, quirky attractions, and progressive culture, Portland continues to surprise both locals and newcomers. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or relocating to Portland, there’s always something new to discover in the Rose City.
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