Greetings from Portland! Tonight I was walking across town with some fellow WDS attendees and we referenced the slogan Austin, Texas once coined noting that it seems to apply to Portland as well. We liked the sound of “Keep Portland Weird” because though it was coined for Texas … it fits the wonderful aspect that’s hard to put into words about Portland. That is, that there is something weird about this place and yet in such weirdness is also a charm that’s entirely too hard to not get caught up in. I’ve been here less than 48 hours and already I can imagine myself living here. I would not get bored. I might get sick of rain, but I wouldn’t get bored. Portland is just weird and exciting enough to keep me interested. Few places have that power besides NYC.
So greetings from weird and wonderful Portland, where …
the hotel is a nightclub and the parties last all night long,
the museums double as conference centers that house life-changing summits,
the pastries rival those found in the best French patisseries,
the public art is abundant,
the window displays are their own special kind of entertainment,
and the sunsets leave not a thing to be desired. Not unlike Portland herself!
We keep hearing amazing things about Portland. It sure looks weird. I love it, and yes, please keep it that way.
You have heard accurate amazing things. It is wonderful indeed! So when are you visiting ….
They’d better not de-weird Portland before I get there, dammit. But frankly, that’ll never happen. Portland’s weirdness, like life itself, will always find a way through.
Your pastry photo, it gives me the massive munchies. I’m supposed to be eating healthily. So I’m pouting at you. Know this. (Great photos. But, pout pout pout).
I too hope they don’t de-weird Portland. When are you visiting? You must try and visit soon. It’s a wonderful place. But do so during July – September. That’s when the weather is best!
I love Portland! I lived there for a year, but I consider it home. I believe the “Keep Portland Weird” sentiment is based around the idea that the way to keep portland weird is to shop at local businesses. Big box companies ruin the unique feel of a place.
Have you been to Voodoo donut yet? Because you need to.
A bit jealous you were able to live here Faith! I may try to do the same. It truly is unique and cool. Also, I think it’s important to shop local no matter where one lives and so it’s a rule I try to live by.
I have not yet been to Voodoo Donut but I really really hope to do so before I leave!!!
I’ve never really thought about Portland until the last year when I’ve been hearing all about great foodie stops and it’s a definite must for my US road trip. I really love this set — one of my favorite of yours!
Thanks Heather! I went most of my life without Portland being huge on my list as well. Finally having gotten here, I see how both how it could fly under the radar and how it’s a total stunner once you do get here. A great city. I highly recommend it. Also, seems inexpensive here too. Not hugely. But definitely less than a trip to NYC or San Francisco.
Great collection- and I love Portland too. It’s been way too long since I’ve visited but it’s a great city, such a buzzing personality!
Thank you so much Jade. Yes, Portland really does have a buzzing personality indeed. That’s a great way to describe it!! Can’t wait to see you at TBEX 🙂
Looks like a great city! I’ve heard so many good things about Portland, including the food scene there. Can’t wait to hear about your adventures!
Thanks love! I didn’t have many adventures because I literally worked the whole time I was here. Even so I highly recommend Portland. The little I did experience was seriously cool. The vibe here is just ridic. Definitely competes with NYC, though feeds a different part of my soul than NYC does.
I can see that – I think that’s why I would love it so much. Plus, the food trucks. Can’t go wrong with a good food truck! xo 🙂
You nailed it. Portland is one of my fave places in the country and one that my husband and I both can see us living in. It’s weird but also charming, but what I like best is that it’s NOT for everyone. Friends of mine have visited, knowing how much I love the city, and came back to ask me, “So why exactly do you love Portland?” – because they didn’t get it.
Beautiful photos! Portland looks like an interesting place. I won’t get to check it out on my trip to the Pacific Northwest for TBEX. Hopefully I’ll get there soon 🙂
Incredible pictures…!!!!
Wow – LOVING these shots =) I was only in Portland for one night and really want to go back…
Wow – LOVING these shots =) I was only in Portland for one night and really want to go back…
Your photography can make anywhere look stunning, Kirsten. I’m really in awe of your work.
“I’ve been here less than 48 hours and already I can imagine myself living here.” – I love that feeling. 🙂
P.S. I like your new banner. 😀 French style!
I’ve never been to Portland, but I have several friends there and I really, really want to go. Love your photos from there!
Oh, I love it!! Portland is one of the (few) great American cities I haven’t been to… As always, your incredible photos want me to book a ticket this minute!
wow , these are sum really amazing photos from portland
So excited to check out Portland! Thanks for your tips 🙂