There are so many cool neighborhoods on the other side of the river. Almost too many to mention. A couple of places stand out, Por que no, and the Waffle Window.

The Pearl District is a nice, safe and bustling part of central Portland. It’s really just a northwest limb of downtown (near to Powell’s city of books). The area is comprised of converted warehouses that have been transformed into a bunch of very nice cafes/shops/bars/restaurants etc. worth seeing and also a good spot to stay in!

Seriously, all of them! I know that doesn’t help much. You won’t get lost, people are very helpful and friendly. If I had to be specific I would say from 12th down to 6th Ave. Keep on exploring and cross Burnside and head into downtown Portland. It’s a great city!

I was not aware that it was or wasn't ..perhaps that answers your question

Pearl District is very close to downtown and a beautiful place. But in the trip I wouldn't leave any piece of Portland behind (not a big city, so bike would take you to most of places). Give South East and North East a chance too - though locals recommend not to go there after dark, they have great restaurants, breweries, cultural places and vibe!

The responses were all excellent recommendations. However, the Pearl District is along the NS Trolley route. My recommendation is to use Google Map and identify the sites you want to visit. Then, identify the trolley routes that passes these locations. There are many hotels along the Trimet (light rail) and Trolley routes. The use of Portland's mass transit is easy, low cost, and very convenient. You can then stay at a hotel outside of the Pearl District which is more expensive than most other places.

Light rail worked like a champ for us. Off the plane, walked to the platform and headed downtown. Couldn't have been easier.

There are several things to do there. We were traveling through Portland on our way to Seattle and stayed there for two days only. You only need two to three days to get your fill. I would recommend: 1. Pittock House 2. Voo Doo Donuts 3. Rose Garden 4. Japanese Garden 5. Powells Book Store Hope some of this helps you.

yes Irving Kitchen is one of our favorites, love the buttermilk fried chicken dinner

I also agree with the "aimless explore" route - there are plenty of shops and a map of the pearl is probably available online (we got one at Northrup Station - the hotel where we stayed). Some of the more popular places (like voodoo donut & salt & straw ice cream) get slammed with customers. There are certainly lots of places to eat or snack (we like Ken's Artisan Breads and Papa Haydn). We also try not to spend a lot of our day waiting in line somewhere to get it. In addition to all of the shops, the Pearl also offers a wonderful "neighborhood" of old restored homes - many on the historical register & many with plaques out front outlining their history. A lot of these places also have beautiful yards & landscape elements. Note: If you're a bookworm, it's very easy to simply spend hours in Powell's - it's huge. If you want a place to unwind with an interesting or classic cocktail, seek out Portland's Teardrop Lounge. Just have fun; dress comfortably and while in Portland, always plan for rain (I grew up there and am pretty waterproof - but have always believed carrying a small umbrella keeps the raindrops at bay this time of year.