I’m not one who has cable.  Havent had it for several years, come to think of it.  So when everyone talks about Portlandia, I don’t have much of a reference point other than I’ve understood Portland to be a very earthy, hipster vibe, somewhat wierd like Austin, kind of town.  Last weekend, I had the chance to sample it for myself.  I had a Southwest voucher that was about to expire and I’ve always wanted to check out Oregon, so off I went.  To explore.  To venture into new territory.

Luckily, one of my besties lives in Washington, so she hopped onto my last minute journey and met me there.  This was a quick trip, so time was of the essence.  Although I arrrived late, so we decided to check out Departures at The Nines.  This was our kind of place- late night dining, fabulous views with a rooftop to boot, we enjoyed plenty of QT to catch up while sipping in the best of Portland.  And this was just the beginning.

We ended our evening around 3, when I simply couldn’t form sentences any longer….and were up bright and early at 8 am.   How can you not be when there are Voodoo Doughnuts to enjoy and an entirely new city to explore.  We, however, opted for an experience at Hunnymilk to start our day.  A funky little, pizza place at night, turned brunch spot on the weekends.  I heard about this place from a friend who suggested I go as Alex, the owners girlfriend, hosts inspired brunches that encourage letter writing and creativity.  She provides everything you would need to explore your creative writing…and or to simply put together a quick “Thinking of you.”  Hunnymilk offers an incredibly welcoming experience and unique food offerings as well.  I’d highly suggest a weekend stop-in.

After my sugar high kicked in (from indulging in a Mimosa (Think: Ice Cream Float), Waffles with Whip and Sprinkles and a Egg Sammy on a doughnut, complimented with maple goodness bacon.  How I made it through the rest of the day, still impressed…though it was worth the caloric overload.

Needless to say, we needed to work it out so off to Forest Park we went to enjoy America’s largest urban forest.  This place is absolutely picturesque and exactly what I envisioned Oregon looking like.  From it’s lush forestry to the incredibly enticing smell of Dirt.  Or perhaps its fresh air.  From the moment you step off the plane, you can smell the intoxicating scent of Nature.  Ahhhhh, Clean air and plenty of it.

After a quick change, we decided to check out some shopping.  I mean, it is a girls trip afterall.   And Shopping in Oregon is TAX FREE.  Need I say more?  There were many adorable boutiques downtown, and especially in the Pearl District.  Although it is tax free shopping, to be honest, I found most stores to be fairly pricey.   We lucked out, as there was a sample sale happening where I picked up a few pieces at a much sweeter price.  We also stopped into Radish Boutique.  They had a variety of eclectic and rather darling items.  Some of which were, coincidentally from San Diego.  Though the best thing about this place was the sweet woman working.  She gave us the most amazing referral of places to go that night.  And I can honestly say that all of the places we made it to were Insane!

Which leads me to the fact that people in Portland may just be the nicest people in the America.  Helpful…Actually courteous…Down home relatability.  Not only friendly, but helpful to guide you on your path….or create a path for you!  Which was more of the case for me, this trip, being a first timer to this lovely city.

Here’s what I’d say about the Nightlife:
Kennedy School– sadly, a missed opportunity, though I hear its quite the unique spot to enjoy a great night out in Portlandia.  However, our night started off with a stop off to Rontom’s – a sweet spot with a stellar patio.  Dark and ambient inside, fire places and cozy seating featured throughout the inside…with the same dark essence continued outside on the patio.  Picnic tables and communal seating makes for a fun way to connect with people. Coming from Southern California, this was quite refreshing to see that people actually go out to mix and mingle with other people!  Loved it…social scene, above par!

Next stop on our grassroots tour de Portland…
Doug Fir.  This place, upon arrival was reminiscent of a former Denny’s location, converted into a bustling nightscene.  From restaurant, to the bar, to the downstairs live music venue-even a gigantic Sasquatch to grab a selfie with….essential.  This place is great!  And thats just the inside.  Outside, there are cozy fire pits where our meeting of new friends continued.  In fact, my friend and I picked up an adorable couple who was too much fun to leave behind as we departed for our next and final stop to Dig a Pony.  From the outside it actually appeared to be a chill restaurant vibe, and yet it couldnt be further from the truth as this place was going off!  The DJ was spinning old school jams that I’m sure most of the crowd had never even heard of before and yet it didn’t matter.  Old school, new school.

The last dance came and went and it was time for us to say good night to a new and certainly adored city of Portland.  Thanks for the good vibes, good tunes and the hospitality that made it most memorable.  I heart u Portlandia. xo