Portland is a great place for many reasons, but one of them is how seamlessly the city gives way to nature. I think about driving down Burnside towards the west hills. One minute you are in a thriving city, then you go through a stop light and are in the middle of a forest. It’s easy to forget you are a 10 minute drive from downtown Portland when visiting the Japanese Garden. It is peaceful and meticulously cared for. Whatever the season, whatever the weather, the Japanese Garden is always absolutely stunning. Every time I visit, I get amazing photos. It is a must visit for anyone and is on my list of places to bring guests. Read More
Tag: Culture
For a short excursion near Portland, check out the Cedar Creek Grist Mill
About 45 minutes north of Portland, after a scenic drive through the country, you will find the Cedar Creek Grist Mill. Built in 1876, the mill was restored to working condition by The Friends of the Cedar Creek Grist Mill in 1989 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a great place for photos with a rushing river, scenic foliage, and a covered bridge. I visited in the early spring and it was still wet and overcast. The clouds help make the light better for photos as the mill is only open mid afternoon on the weekends.
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Coffee
I am a fan of coffee… actually let me rephrase that…I am a fan of coffee culture. What’s the difference? I am not a coffee expert, the way I drink coffee would probably offend coffee purists; I put too much sugar in it sometimes and don’t get overly concerned about what region it came from or the “toffee notes” etc. that are present in this one verses that one. I do know when I like a particular coffee or when I don’t. All that being said, I love coffee shops and appreciate good independent coffee shops of all types. This really came into focus upon moving to Portland.