Have you ever visited a place you’ve never been before and immediately thought, “Wow, this place feels like home”? Well, that’s exactly how I felt in Portland. The city-center nestled between mountain ranges made me feel protected and at peace. Not to mention the food (and lattes!) was some of the best I’ve ever had! I think I say that just about everywhere I go, but seriously, the food in Oregon made me feel good, and the fact that most of my favorite meals in Portland were made in food trucks was the cherry on top. The rich flavors and diversity of food options, along with the beautiful scenery, lands this city in my top five favorite destinations.

We went to Portland in January, so it was COLD, but so worth it! My husband and I visited Oregon for seven days. While we were there, we drove to several attractions in the area including Multnomah Falls, Mt. Hood, Astoria (a major landmark for the Lewis and Clark Expedition) and the beautiful coastal city of Tillamook. If you’re into cheese and ice cream, yes it’s that Tillamook, home to Tillamook Creamery, where they produce some of the best #DairyDoneRight with no artificial flavors or “cheese products.” The stuff is down-right amazing, and the drive out to the coast was 100% worth it!

Our drive up to Mt. Hood was breath-taking, as expected.  My first time snowmobiling (in -7 degrees) and my first time experiencing wind-burn took place on magnificent Mt. Hood (#NoRegrets). I also had a pretty hilarious slip/fall combo that Marcus happened to capture as we climbed up to see the top of Multnomah Falls. Now that I’ve had time to heal, I can admit it was pretty funny.

I have so much to say about Oregon, but I will keep this post concise. The beautiful evergreen trees, snow-capped mountains, and stunning views along with some of the best food (trucks) and most hipster people I’ve ever met are all reasons why this place will always hold a special place in my heart.

Downtown Portland

Food truck park!

Snowmobiling in 3-foot snow and -7 degrees!

The most beautiful frozen waterfall/pond combo I ever did see!

A Crème brûlée doughnut (it was everything and more!)

Scenic views on top of Mt. Hood

Astoria, Oregon

Multnomah Falls

Another food truck park!

Red nose, cold hands

The Astoria Column, which has major parts of Oregon’s history spiraling up the tower.

This section is strictly dedicated to all the delicious lattes I had in Portland! Bless you, baristas! The best (and most beautiful) coffee I’ve ever had!