Portland, Oregon – a Mecca for lovers of microbreweries, roses, outdoor living and tax free shopping. With a population of just over half a million people, Portland offers all the amenities of a big city without the hustle and bustle. If you’re looking for a vacation spot with activities for everyone, then Portland is your city.
Make Mine A Pint
Back in the early 80’s a revolution began in Portland. There were no marches, no sit ins, and no lives lost. In fact, there might even have been a few lives saved by this revolution. I’m talking about the microbrewery revolution.
No longer would Oregonians be limited to purchasing mass produced ale every time they wanted to crack open a cold one. Small cottage brewers began combining local ingredients, including 12 varieties of hops, with barley and pure water from nearby Mount Hood to fuel the revolution. Today Portland is home to more craft breweries than any other city in North America.
The oldest of the craft breweries is the Bridgeport Brewing Company. Started in 1984, today the brewery is capable of producing 100,000 barrels per year. Or, for those of us who drink by the glass, that’s 25,000,000 pints! If you’d like to take a tour, they’re offered Wednesday through Saturday at 5:00. Be sure to check out their flagship ale, the IPA. This full flavored brew won a world champion trophy at England’s Brewing Industry International Awards
Another well known brewing establishment in the city is the McMenamin Brothers. With over 30 pubs spread throughout the Greater Portland area, you’ll find them in the strangest places. A restored elementary school. A movie theatre built by Universal Studios. Or situated on six acres of what was once a pioneer’s homestead. Regardless of where you do find them though, you can count on one thing. With an annual output of 20,000 barrels there’s bound to be plenty to drink!