Road Trippin' the Portland area: 'It's a great destination'

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PORTLAND, Ore. - Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, we've been encouraged to stay inside, close to home - and go out only where essential.

As counties begin to open, the Portland area offers 92,000 acres of green space and a connected system of trails and parks for walking and biking - plenty of room to socially distance.

"We've got an amazing small town feel but we're also filled with charming neighborhoods that people can get out and explore," Stephanie Selk with Travel Portland said.

There's the Hoyt Arboretum, with more than 2,000 species of trees and shrubs from 6 continents.

The International Rose Test Garden, where 10,000 roses overlook Portland's skyline and Mount Hood.

The Japanese Garden has timed entries and face-cleaning stations.

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry has also partially reopened.

"It's a great destination to get out and have that space but also still have that amazing city, cultural community feel," Selk said.

The Portland Saturday Market offers the opportunity to stroll through booths near the waterfront to pick up handmade, local treasures and taste your way through what's been named the country's Best Foodie City.

"This is a great time to get out there an support local businesses and sort of put your money back into the economy and support your neighbors and other Portlanders," Selk said.

Multnomah County is in phase one of reopening but on the governor's "watch list." Some restaurants and bars have dine-in service and many hotels are accepting guests. Face coverings are required in all indoor public spaces and in outdoors for places where you can't socially distance.