top 10 things to do in portland

A few weeks ago, we visited one of our most favorite places on earth - Portland.  It was our 5th time to visit, so it's actually starting to feel like a second home to us.  The weather is a nice change, the sidewalks are wonderful, and the people are extremely unique, but friendly.  And aside from all of that, there a bajillion things to do, eat, and see.  Although I'm pretty sure I'll leave some things out, here's a pretty good list of our favorites in Portland (in no particular order):

1.  Parks.  Pre-motherhood, this wouldn't have made the list.  But when you visit Portland with kids, parks are a must.  They're beautiful and green and might even have fun book characters roaming around.  (Laurelhurst Park, Piccolo Park, Grant park to name a few)

2.  Playdate PDX.  (Obviously, another post-motherhood suggestion.)  When a humongous play area meets a tasty coffee shop, a parent finds absolute bliss.  The kids loved it, I got to drink a mocha, and Colt got to stop hearing about how I wanted a mocha.  Everyone was happy.  They even serve lunch/dinner items so you could literally spend the entire day there.  It's brilliant.

3.  Multnomah Falls.  Hiking around these waterfalls is pretty gorgeous.  Pack a lunch and spend the morning/afternoon there.

4.  Cannon Beach.  You've probably seen it in movies or in other people's pictures, so why not go yourself?  It's beautiful and a great photo op.  Especially if you're 23 weeks pregnant.  (No, this is not a current pregnancy picture and no this is not an announcement to number 2.)

5.  Farmer's Market.  Portland's farmer's market is great for the whole family.  Spend your morning or afternoon perusing the yummy foods and drinks while enjoying the unique musicians that line the area.

6.  Por Que No?  Exactly.  Why not eat the tastiest street style tacos?  There's no reason why you shouldn't eat here at least once while in Portland.  But twice is recommended.

7.  Portland City Grill.  Go at night and enjoy a beautiful view of the city over some tasty food.

(Colt the Friendly Ghost dined with us.)

8.  Grand Central Bakery.  This is an absolute must.  If you go to Portland and do not eat breakfast here, you are dumb.  Seriously.  (Please note Duke's hands trying to reach for my food in both pictures.)

9.  Khun Pic's Bahn Thai.  I'm not sure I could ever eat Thai food anywhere else.  It's owned by a hilarious couple (who also happen to be the Watson's wonderful landlords) and she cooks every bit of the meal right when you order.  The restaurant is in a cute little house with lovely outdoor seating.  You will not be disappointed.

10.  Voodoo Donut.  Here's the deal, I don't necessarily think this place has the best donuts I've ever had.  I'm perfectly pleased with a chocolate frosted from Dunkin Donuts.  But you won't find variety and creativity in donuts like you will at this place.  It's worth a trip.  You should go just to say you've gone.

If you're trying to decide on a vacation spot for you and your honey or you and your family, Portland is a perfect place.

Have any of you been to Portland?  What are your favorite things to do there?