Portland is emerging as a top wellness destination in the U.S.
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When it comes to emerging wellness destinations, few cities have as much to offer as Portland, Oregon. This Pacific Northwest gem has created its own distinct version of wellness travel, complete with sustainable exploration, tasty vegan food, meditative gardens, and epic nature that will restore every part of your being. Plus, “The City of Roses” has a couple of bathing spas where you can wash away even the most stubborn stresses that have been weighing you down.
Here’s how to infuse your trip to Portland with wellness and self-care.
Explore the City on Two Wheels
Portland is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country.
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The absolute best way to explore Portland—especially on a wellness trip—is on two wheels. After all, it was the first major city in the U.S. to be named a Platinum Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists back in 2008, and it has continued to earn awards for its bike-ability ever since.
You can easily hop on a bike from Portland’s bike-share program, Biketown, for some independent exploration. Single rides start at $1 to unlock the bike, plus 20 cents per minute of ride time, likely getting you where you need to go for less than the cost of a taxi or Uber.
Better yet, consider taking the Intro to Portland Bike Tour from Pedal Bike Tours. The guided three-hour experience will take you through some of Portland’s prettiest and most popular neighborhoods by bike. Along the way, you’ll see Henry Weinhard’s 140-year-old brewery, pedal through a university campus, and cross the Willamette River, pausing to appreciate views of majestic Mt. Hood along the way.
Meditate in the Japanese Garden
Meditation feels easy at the Portland Japanese Garden.
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Wellness feels effortless at the Portland Japanese Garden. This renowned attraction, considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Asia, is a pristine paradise of tranquil natural beauty. While the garden is one of the top attractions in the city, it’s filled with quiet hideaways that make perfect spots for a meditation session: mossy rocks near trickling streams, cozy chairs nestled against the sandy zen garden, or the rustic area outside of the Kashintei Tea House. Simply meandering along the calm paths through the 12-acre garden can be a meditative experience in and of itself. It’s both literally and figuratively a breath of fresh air.
Don’t miss the bonsai collection, featuring stunning miniature trees that are hundreds of years old. Contemplating the tenderness caretakers have shown …….