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Girlfriend Trip Travel Guide: Portland, Oregon

October 23, 2019

Portland Girlfriend Travel GuidePortland Radisson RED HotelPortland Oregon Travel GuideShopping Recommendations Portland OregonOne of the perks of living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest is the proximity to mountains, beaches, and several bustling metropolises.  For instance, in a less than 4 hour drive south of Seattle, you can find yourself in Portland, Oregon.  Aptly named “The Rose City,” Portland is known for a chicken named Colin (Portlandia reference here)…but in all seriousness, an excellent food scene, hipster styling, tax-free shopping, strong coffee, and 12 bridges that straddle the Willamette river, which divides the city.

Recently, a couple of girlfriends and I headed to Portland for weekend getaway to enjoy good food and taking advantage of tax-free shopping; escaping the weekend soccer mom drill to reconnect with each other and let our hair down.  Leaving early on a Saturday morning with plans to return mid-afternoon on Sunday, we refined our itinerary to make the most of our quick trip.  I’m sharing our top picks below:

Olympic Provisions PortlandBrunch at Olympic Provisions PortlandUp first…Brunch at Olympia Provisions

An absolute MUST…this stop was a crowd favorite.  After our trip south, we were famished and luckily had the foresight to have made a reservation for this popular charcuterie spot in NW Portland.  Even with our table reserved, we had to wait probably 15 minutes to be seated (sadly, such is the food scene here in Portland).  But the food was well worth the wait!  We shared the Spanish charcuterie board filled with Spanish salami, ham, and chorizo.  While the others enjoyed an eggs benedict (which they continue to dream about), I had a delicious hash of sausage and delicata squash topped with the most perfect poached egg.  The wait staff definitely knows their stuff, as our waitress helped us navigate a menu with many delicious options.  This is probably one of the best brunches I’ve enjoyed in recent memory!

Pearl District Portland OregonAnthropologie Flagship Store PortlandStumptown Coffee Portland OregonThen meander thru Northwest Portland & the Pearl District

In addition to saving 10% in sales tax, Portland has some fantastic shopping.  The Pearl District and Northwest neighborhoods are host to a number of great options; both small and large retailers alike.  Right off of Burnside (the main east/west thoroughfare), you could spend hours browsing the shelves of Powell’s Books, Portland’s famously huge independent bookstore.  I would suggest first grabbing a coffee across the street at Stumptown Coffee.  You may see their nitro coffee on the shelves of your local Trader Joe’s or grab their beans at your favorite grocer, but this is an opportunity to have a barista craft your coffee in the Motherland.

From there, we headed into the Pearl District.  You can find local fashion and houseware boutiques such as House of Lolo (premium denim, luxe cashmere, and refined basics), local designer Bridge & Burn (a quintessential NW fashion house filled with plaid, beanies, reusable designer coffee mugs, and perfect flat-brimmed hats) and Porch Light (air plants, unique handmade jewelry, cards, glass and tableware).  I would also recommend a trip through Anthropologie here.  I know, you likely have an Anthropologie store in your backyard, or at least are familiar with their offerings via their website.  However, Portland is home to one of only two “Anthropologie & Co.” stores in the nation, which are more like a department store; offering a wide selection of home furnishings, a BLDN bridal boutique, a shoe section as well as their assortment of unique fashion finds.  In addition to two floors of beautiful home displays, the downstairs also features a boutique with apparel and jewelry unique to the Portland store.

Mediterranean Exploration Company Portland OregonPortland Oregon 24 hour Travel GuideThen dine at Mediterranean Exploration Company

Or try one of the other restaurants within the Toro Bravo restaurant group (these include the famous Tasty n Alder and Toro Bravo, among others).  Renowned for their fusion flavors combined with seasonal PNW flare, you cannot go wrong with any of these unique culinary experiences.  At MEC, we were recommended the yellow tail carpacacio (pictured) and I was skeptical when I was told that the octopus is a staff favorite.  Ordinarily I find octopus to be chewy, but this was smoky dish melted in your mouth.  Quite honestly, the best octopus I’ve ever tasted!  I would order it again.  House made labneh (a cauliflower-based dip) with two orders of pita…also a must.  The table next to us highly recommended sharing a Turkish coffee after our meal, we’re just old ladies that can’t drink caffeine that late!

Although we didn’t make it this time, I would highly recommend making a reservation at the Voicebox, which are private karaoke suites complete with bottle and food service.  While I would never be brave enough to belt out tunes in front of a bar full of people, I have a running list of my favorite songs (mostly 90’s favorites like “4 Non-Blondes”) in preparation for a private concert among friends.  In addition to a full bar for courage, they also serve delicious late-night snacks like tater-tots and buffalo cauliflower.  Reservations are recommended and there is are minimum requirements for weekend nights.

Downtown Portland Hotel Raddisson RedGirlfriend Guide to Portland OregonRadisson Red Hotel Downtown PortlandRest at the Radisson Red

With a central location and unique, pop decor, The Radisson Red is a fantastic stay in downtown Portland.  Central to most everything (located in the downtown core), the hotel offers both hip vibes and the comforts of home.  We loved all of the fun photos ops with pops of color everywhere and interesting murals around every corner, the devil is in the artistic details at this hotel.  Yet, at the end of a long day spent exploring all of Portland’s offerings, we snuggled into plush down comforter laden beds and slept in peacefully.  For comfort paired with a cool, downtown vibe (and an insta-worthy venue), look no further than the Radisson Red.

Also, we got around Portland really easily using Uber.  Rather than spending time navigating an unfamiliar city and parking at various locales, we choose to rely on Uber to transport us.  This was probably the best idea we had; we shopped, dined and explored without a care as to where to leave the car, who was driving and how to get there.  And I experienced my first Uber Tesla ride in Portland!

Another genius idea?  I ordered Uber Eats when returning home Sunday evening.  With my family at home awaiting my arrival, the last thing I wanted to do was prepare a last minute meal.  Instead, I found our favorite local Indian restaurant on Uber Eats and had it delivered to our doorstep shortly after I walked through the door.

Foot Bar Portland OregonGirls Weekend Portland OregonReflexology Massage at Foot Bar

You cannot visit Portland without a trip to Foot Bar.  My close friend lives in Portland; she turned me on to this gem years ago and I seriously visit every time I find myself in the Rose City.  I even have an account there!  This natural spa focuses on reflexology massage that will change your life.  Relaxing vibes start with armotherapy and tea service (although you can order wine as well).  I would suggest at least a 75 minute massage and, yes, it may “just” be your feet, but you will feel the benefits throughout your body.  In particular, when planning a girlfriends’ trip, this spa is the ultimate in relaxation because you can both unwind yet sit side-by-side and chat.  In addition to foot baths complete with scrubs, masks and the massage, they also offer non-toxic polishes for a true pedicure.

Girlfriend Weekend to Portland Oregon

Travel and time with loved ones are two priorities for me; both are accomplished with a quick girlfriend weekend getaway.  Even with hectic schedules due to work and family commitments, it’s possible to make even a short amount of time to explore and reconnect.

Portland is a gem of a city to visit.  With more time the city offers plenty of additional activities for outdoor and cultural enthusiasts alike with Forest Park and the Portland Historical Society located close to downtown.  There are also many delicious restaurants to try and a fantastic vintage shopping scene still left for me to explore.  Luckily, with Portland’s proximity to Seattle and with close friends living in the Rose City, I’m already planning my return!

Thank you for reading.  Please leave me any Portland recommendations or, if you’re planning a trip to Portland soon, request any additional recs in the comments.  Happy travels! ~Jenn

A special ‘thank you’ to Radisson Red Hotel Portland and to Uber for partnering with me on this post.  While this post was sponsored in part by both the hotel and the ride delivery service, you can always expect all opinions expressed on this blog to be entirely my own.

Comments: 1   //   Category: Lifestyle, Travel

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Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted t Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted the new year feeling inspired with a renewed intention for my account; to share with you the goodies I love, wear, try. Unfiltered and honest. That’s what I’m here for. But then...2021 arrived feeling much like her older sister, 2020. Instead, I’ve avoided a lot of social media; choosing to tune into various news outlets and into my family. So, HERE WE ARE. A post proving that I got dressed yesterday, wearing some of my new favorites (these @flamingosshoes white boots!) and steady stand-bys (year 2 wearing this @notmondaymercantile beanie on repeat). I took the kids out after school to run a couple of errands and connect with a business I love to support; we made plans for a spring share. Man, it felt good to get out! And now, I’m posting early before I’ve read the morning news. So, it’s happened. 
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Please stay safe, remain respectful, and true to yourself. Social media is a beautiful way to connect, create, and inspire...but can also be a dangerous rabbit hole of misinformation and an opportunity for people to behave in a way they ordinarily wouldn’t in person. Off my soap box. Have a lovely Friday!#wordsfrommyheart #realoutfitgram #flamingosshoes #whiteboots #notmondaymoments
Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you all but enjoyed a nice long break. Heading back home after some snow time and I’m feeling re-energized (for now). Isn’t it funny how a change in the calendar can make you feel different? Are you a “new year, new you” kinda gal or more indifferent? I do like a good reset. Even though we’ll be doing more of the same early this year, I’m feeling more optimistic. For now. Cheers to 2021!
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Also, posted in stories a nearly identical photo of us from last January at the top of @schweitzer_mountain. While the photos look the same, it’s fun to think that we now are Sandpoint homeowners! A positive outcome of 2020. #newyearonthemountain #snowbest #schweitzermountain #skifamily
Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all the boxes this year. Thinking of everyone not able to spend time with loved ones this year. I’m so grateful for our little family but really missing my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews, my in-laws.  Over a year seems far too long to be apart; but we all need to continue to be safe. It matters. #christmassweater #christmas2020 #staysafestayhome #vintagesweater
Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions ma Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions may look different this year; we have an opportunity to get creative and share in new experiences. Like the new-to-me homemade marshmallow recipe, @thekirstyfiles and I have the pleasure of bringing to you in partnership with @pacific_place. We encourage you to invite a few pals to a zoom date, pop a bottle of bubbly, and create these delicious confections together. I promise they’re relatively fool proof (I pulled them off!) AND a sugar-high afternoon spent with friends (even virtually) will be sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Tune in to Pacific Place’s IGTV or YouTube to see the full tutorial, including my gaff when my marshmallow began moving into the “hard ball” territory (note: this recipe does require a candy thermometer and the ability to read it!). Cheers to making the most out of holiday 2020! #homemademarshmallows #pacificplaceseattle #craftingtogether
Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a frie Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a friend. The belly laughs, chit chat, and groans (as we tried on a number of jeans) provided the escape from reality that I needed. Sometimes you don’t realize just how much you miss something until you get to enjoy it again!
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Other things I love? Soft luxury cashmere, designer denim that fits like a glove, and packable hats (yes, packable!). All can be found @willaseattle; a small, women-owned boutique located in the heart of the Queen Anne neighborhood in Seattle. Be sure to check out our stories as @thekirstyfiles and I share holiday-perfect gifts for your sister, mother, girlfriends...yourself! Lucky for Kirsty and I, our husbands also know the lovely owner, Liz (and she has our wishlists on file)! 
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Also very near and dear to my heart, Willa is the epitome of shopping local. The shelves are stocked with unique, small business designs; including many Seattle businesses. When you shop local, you not only support your community but also curate a look all your own!
#shoplocalseattle #seattleboutique #seattlestyle #happytoshare
Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for you Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for yourself, aka #stayathomestyle. Sure, 2020 may be the year of the sweatpant (combined with a sleeping bag-like coat, as seen here). And yes, a mask chain is this year’s hottest accessory. BUT I still take care to actually get dressed each day. And while lipstick may no longer be a part of my daily routine (I mean, was it ever??), it’s still important to be pulled together..if only for my own mental health. And even if no one else sees it but the grocery clerk. #whatmamaworemonday #sweatpantsseason 
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PS. Did you know I usually tag everything that I’m wearing? It may not all be current, but DM me if you want more details.
A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spe A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spent a lot of quality time as a party of five, braved a few big changes, and (mostly) survived 2020. #dontjinxit #partyoffive #practicegratitude #seattlefamily 
photo: @chelseamacorphotography
On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope t On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope to inspire, remind, urge, and even beg you to ignore all of the crazy cyber sales that have been creeping into your inbox for the past week and instead SHOP SMALL this holiday season. Yes, perhaps it’s less convenient and even less of a “deal” but this pandemic is putting an even greater strain on the small and local businesses that are the absolute life blood of our communities. And, in addition to supporting an entrepreneur and neighbor, you’ll likely find more creative, individual, and unique gifts for your loved ones by shopping a small business.
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Are you in the Seattle area?  Hit me up with questions about my favorite local haunts and finds. I’ve got so many ideas to share; together we can help blow your holiday giving out of the water this year! #shopsmallthischristmas #supportsmallbusiness #shopsmallseattle #seattlestylist
This sweater is at the top of my wishlist! Come ch This sweater is at the top of my wishlist! Come check out @sskein.co knitwear for yourself and visit with designer @e_for_elisa tomorrow during a private trunk show at Emry Boutique in Madison Valley. Simply dm @shop.emry to schedule your visit (attendees are being staggered for safety). Not in Seattle? Check out Elisa’s amazingly cozy, baby alpaca designs online. These knits are the perfect gifts for your mom, sister, boyfriend...self. Because 2020. They deserve to be snuggled in luxury! (And so do you). #sskein #smallbatch #ethicalfashion #shopsmallseattle

welcome to my blog

Thanks for reading! I began this blog in early 2014 as an outlet to share my styling tips and tricks, and disseminate shopping wisdom. I am honored when readers make a connection; whether it’s learning how to make the latest fashion trend your own or finding the perfect new addition to your wardrobe. Thank you for stopping by and spending a few minutes of your day sharing in my passion for fashion and style! ~Jenn

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