Top Culture in Portland

If you plan to visit the planetarium, I'd suggest buying tickets online in advance. I didn't, and we had to wait way longer than expected – totally bummer!

My advice is to check out the small gift shop before you leave. They have unique souvenirs and sometimes they have discounts towards the end of the day.

Don’t forget to wear comfy shoes! The mansion has lots of stairs and the gardens are beautiful to explore - you'll want to walk around and enjoy the scenery!

Remember to bring a camera! The architecture is stunning, and some parts of the square give you a unique perspective of the city. I wish I had taken more photos.

If you're looking for a spot to relax, grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafes and find a seat in the square. It's a great way to people-watch and soak in the vibe.

The square can get really busy during events, so keep an eye on the schedule. I went during a festival and ended up missing some of the quieter attractions nearby that I wanted to check out.

My advice is to grab a map at the entrance. I thought I could wing it but I wasted time wandering around because I didn't know where things were

My advice is to bring cash. Not all vendors accept cards, plus it might save you some time when the lines get long. I got stuck waiting because I had to find an ATM!

I suggest you go early, around 10 am, to snag the best parking and avoid the heavy crowds. Trust me, it gets super packed later in the day!

Keep an eye out for live performances! There are often musicians or dancers showcasing their talents. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and adds so much to your experience.

Don’t forget to bring your own snacks and a water bottle. The cafe there can be a bit pricey and limited in options. I found some cute spots to sit and munch on my own food, which felt way better!

Keep your eye out for special events. I stumbled upon a lovely choir performance during my visit which was unexpected and magical. You might want to check the website for any happenings before you go.

I recommend visiting The Grotto on a weekday if you can. The weekends get super crowded and it’s tough to enjoy the peace and beauty. I went on a Tuesday, and it was way more tranquil!

Bring a good pair of walking shoes! There's a nice path to explore around the bridge and I regretted wearing sandals.

i think you should bring your own snacks. the cafe was nice, but prices were a bit high for snacks, and it's easier to have biscuits on hand for the little ones.

I suggest getting there right when they open at 9 AM to avoid the crowds. It was way more fun without too many kids around, and we got to explore everything in a relaxed way

Check out the free parking options nearby! I was nervous about the costs, but we found a lot just a few minutes away which saved us some cash for goodies inside.

I suggest visiting Jamison Square in the late afternoon around 4 PM to catch the gorgeous sunset over the buildings. The lighting is perfect for photos! I totally missed this on my first visit