One-Day Relaxation and City Experience in Portland, Oregon on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Portland, Oregon

8:00AM

Breakfast at Voodoo Doughnut

Start your day with a sweet twist at Voodoo Doughnut, famous for its quirky varieties and affordable prices, ensuring a sugar rush to kick off your adventure.
Located in downtown Portland, can be reached easily on foot from most central hotels.
USD5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden

Experience tranquility by wandering through the beautifully manicured landscapes of the Portland Japanese Garden, where you can relax and appreciate nature's beauty.
Take the MAX light rail from downtown to the Washington Park stop, then walk 15 minutes.
USD18, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the International Rose Test Garden

Right next to the Japanese Garden, this iconic garden allows you to enjoy thousands of blooming roses, offering picturesque views for a peaceful escape.
A short 10-minute walk from the Japanese Garden.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Lardo

Grab a delicious and budget-friendly sandwich at Lardo, known for their creative twists on classic comfort food, perfect for refueling after a morning of exploration.
A quick 20-minute bus ride from the gardens to the food cart pod area.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Powell's City of Books

Spend time among the enormous collection at Powell's, the world's largest independent bookstore, where you can browse thousands of titles, often at excellent prices.
A 15-minute walk from Lardo.
Free (unless you purchase a book),, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Waterfront Park

Take a leisurely walk or find a spot to sit and relax by the Willamette River at Waterfront Park, soaking up the scenic beauty of the area.
A 15-minute walk from Powell's.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Portland Art Museum

Explore a diverse range of art collections spanning centuries at the Portland Art Museum, a perfect way to indulge in culture while staying within budget.
A short 15-minute walk or bus ride from Waterfront Park.
USD15 (admission after 5 pm on Fridays is free), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bangkok Jackpot

Finish your culinary day with a delectable Thai dinner at Bangkok Jackpot, where the flavors are big and the prices are low, offering a cozy atmosphere.
Just a 10-minute walk from the art museum.
USD10, 1 hour

7:30PM

Evening stroll in the Pearl District

Conclude your day by wandering through the vibrant Pearl District, filled with boutiques, galleries, and lounges, with the option to grab a coffee or dessert at one of the many cafes.
A 15-minute walk from Bangkok Jackpot.
Free (unless you buy a drink/dessert), 1 hour
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