Portland is a popular travel destination because of Mt. Hood,the city’s mild climate and eco-friendly reputation. But Portland also has a big art scene. And you can enjoy it for free.
There are at least four FREE monthly art walks throughout the city, where galleries stay open into the evening — some offering free wine, hors d’oeuvres or music, some featuring appearances by artists — so people can see new art in a relaxed and informal way. Plan your Portland travel accordingly.
Downtown First Thursdays: About eight art galleries in the southwest part of the city near Pioneer Place. Easily accessible by MAX light rail. Close to downtown Portland hotels, restaurants and businesses. Typically from 6-9 p.m.
First Thursdays in the Pearl: Perhaps the newest, hippest neighborhood in Portland, featuring new condos, hot restaurants, brewpubs and shops. It’s also an easy walk from downtown hotels. If you travel to Portland, make the Pearl District a stop. About a dozen galleries participate. From 5:30 until 8 p.m. or so.
First Fridays: In the southeast part of the city; sponsored by the Central Eastside Arts District. Participants include more than 15 galleries and studios, plus other businesses that display art for the event. 6 – 9 p.m.
Last Thursdays: Along Alberta Street in northeast Portland, between NE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and NE 33rd Ave. A handful of art galleries and studios, plus restaurants and shops, make this a lively stretch. 5 – 9:30 p.m.
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