Despite recent headlines regarding livability issues, Portland boasts numerous attractive features, such as its public parks and trails, which contribute to its appeal as a travel destination, according to Travel + Leisure. The city has been named one of the 50 best places to visit in the world for 2025.
Portland, affectionately known as the Rose City, was selected from nearly 120 potential destinations evaluated by the magazine’s editors, earning its place on the “Big City Thrills” list due to its vibrant urban charm. Other categories in the rankings include cultural immersion, nature experiences, waterfront moments, culinary delights, beach getaways, and adventure spots.
Portland has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, art walks, and events like First Thursday, where local artists showcase their work. The music scene is equally vibrant, with a range of genres represented in venues across the city. Each of Portland’s neighborhoods has its own distinct personality. Areas like the Alberta Arts District are known for their street art and local boutiques, while the Mississippi Avenue area offers a mix of vintage shops and live music venues.
Travel + Leisure outlined its selection criteria, emphasizing locations that are currently relevant—whether through exceptional outdoor access, unique cultural experiences, exhilarating excitement, or luxurious accommodations akin to five-star properties. The city has a strong theater community, with various companies producing everything from classic plays to contemporary works. Other venues have been open to Hip Hop music.
The magazine highlighted the opening of Cascada in the Alberta Arts District, which is set to be the city’s first “underground thermal springs spa and eco-hotel.” Furthermore, plans for the renovation of the Portland Art Museum will add an impressive 100,000 square feet to the facility, featuring new galleries and a Mark Rothko Pavilion scheduled for completion in 2025.
Additionally, the city’s $2 billion renovation of Portland International Airport was praised for introducing a “new, nature-inspired main terminal” and improving accessibility for travelers. Other cities that made the “Big City Thrills” list include Detroit, Hong Kong, Shenzhen in China, Marrakesh, Rome, and Sacramento.
