There’s nothing like Fall in the Northwest. The days are still nice but begin with that invigorating morning chill. The falling leaves change to brilliant oranges, reds, and golds signifying summer’s wave goodbye. Pumpkin spice lattes on the way to work, college football, bonfires, Honeycrisp apples at the farmer’s market… It’s the perfect time to be out and about. Here are a few fun things to do in Portland this Fall:
1. Day or Night Trip to Sauvie Island
Sauvie Island’s 26,000 acres of U-pick farms, fresh produce stands, pumpkin patches, corn maizes and some incredible bird watching opportunities are a must this time of year.
Bella Organic Farm is a great spot featuring an intricate corn maze opening September 5th. The Pumpkin Patch opens September 26th, which begins a month-long pumpkin fest selling pre-picked and u-pick pumpkins through November, and free hay rides take you to and from. During October, the hay rides and mazes turn haunted at night for Halloween thrills. They also have wine tastings onsite after teaming up with Buddha Kat Winery to bring you the first winery on the island! Bella Organic Farm makes for a great family outing as there is something for everyone this time of year.
2. My Big Fat Greek Festival
The best festival of the year takes place in October, The Portland Greek Festival at The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in SE Portland. This year’s 64th annual festival will be October 2-4 featuring authentic handmade crafts, food, pastries, music and dance from the homeland. It started as a bazaar to help pay the mortgage off on the new church building back when they relocated in 1952. It’s become a beloved Portland tradition and a wonderful opportunity for members of the Greek church to share annually with over 15,000 guests from the Portland Metropolitan area their beautiful Greek Orthodox faith and their cherished cultural traditions.
3. Invigorating Hike through Forest Park
If you really want to experience the beauty of Autumn unfolding in Portland, take a hike through Forest Park up to the Pittock Mansion viewpoint. Play hooky one afternoon and hike the Wildwood Trail that Henry Pittock himself built. It’s a moderate, 3.8 mile hike that starts from the Lower Macleay Trailhead and ascends almost 1000 feet to the Mansion. (Hike #8 on THIS MAP). The path is shaded with huge trees and great for jogging too. Breath in the fresh air and watch thousands of leaves fall to the ground. Pack a lunch and rest on the Mansion’s lawn overlooking downtown Portland with Mt Hood in the distance.
If you’re an early bird, take a morning jog to watch the sunrise. The fog hangs beneath the viewpoint during this time of year, and it hides part of the city. It’s eerie but beautiful. Bring coffee or stop by Blue Star Donuts on your way up to have breakfast with a view.
Here’s Your Chance to Visit Pittock Mansion
In my possession, I have passes for FREE admission that includes a guided, or self-guided tour, and the current exhibit. If you send me the name and number of someone who is actively looking to buy or sell a home, I will mail you two passes (worth $20 in value). The first three people to act on this offer get passes. I only have six up for grabs.
tomkerrhomes.com 