Welcome to Portland, where brunch is required and flannels are optional (but highly encouraged). This offbeat city is nestled in Mount Hood’s backyard between two mountain ranges—where big-city ambition and small-town charm meet.

Here, the green always outshines the grey— it's Pacific Northwest paradise. You’ll find taprooms and hiking trails by the dozen, filled with local vanguards creating an eclectic culture unlike any other US city. 

If Portland’s quirky vibe doesn’t instantly draw you in, then its coffee shops, craft breweries, food pods, or outdoor scenery probably will.

First things first, every Portland adventure starts with a fresh cup of coffee. Because, yes, the city does live up to its rainy reputation, and yes, there really is a cozy coffee shop around every corner.

Coffee to Portland is like deep-dish pizza to The Windy City. Ranked the 3rd most caffeinated city in the country—Portland is home to over 2,500 coffee shops and credited with popularizing the craft coffee culture. Each shop you walk into will bring a unique atmosphere, probably some trendy interior design, and a friendly barista eager to educate you on their cold brew lineup.

Grab a cup before heading over to brunch; Portlanders take this meal almost as seriously as their espresso. While you won’t be able to avoid the midweek brunch lines, the inventive menu options will be well worth it—and with VELO Black Cherry in your pocket, you can savor the flavor while you wait.

Portland’s coffee must be working, because there are big ideas brewing—even in the smallest of places. The city is bustling with creators, makers, and small-shop owners, who are celebrated and supported by the whole city. Here, shopping local is the only way to shop. Boutique businesses offering handcrafted, artisanal, one-of-a-kind products are what keep Portland weird—and Portlanders keep them thriving.  Try exploring Alberta Arts District, a colorful neighborhood lined with art galleries, funky shops, and plenty of places to refill that coffee mug. 

Not only is PDX a haven for local businesses, but it’s recently made its mark in the startup and tech scenes, earning the nickname, “The Silicon Forest.” Many entrepreneurial spirits are ditching their cubicles and setting up shop in coffeehouses to get their ideas off the ground. The laid-back, yet driven city caters itself to a life lived on your terms—with no idea too big, too small, or too weird. 

Thanks to Portland's surrounding scenery, work and play have a unique and desirable way of coexisting. A drive in any direction will envelop you in Oregon’s beauty—there are over 200 waterfalls in the state alone, and half of them are a quick trip from the city. So, get road trip-ready and take in the simple beauties of Portland while you enjoy VELO along the way.

Columbia River Gorge is a deep canyon just outside Portland, and it's overflowing with breathtaking vistas at every turn. This dreamy outdoor destination attracts windsurfers, kayakers, and trailblazers from all over the country.

But you don’t have to go that far to enjoy the Pacific Northwest nature. You can kayak around Ross Island, which is right in the heart of the city. If that’s not your thing, their streets are debatably more bike-friendly than they are car-friendly, which is a great way to cover ground and enjoy Portland's outdoors. Lastly, there are several hiking trails sprinkled throughout the city. And who are we kidding, staying near Portland's breweries makes rewarding yourself with a beer much more convenient.

Portland’s beer scene is the only thing that gives its coffee a run for its money. Whether you’re looking for a stout or a sour, you can find it on tap. Locals have nicknamed the city “Beervana” and celebrate their beloved beer with a different festival almost every month, where local brewers gather to showcase their latest crafts.

PDX has nearly 70 microbreweries; home to hops as unique as the city. And if you love trying new flavors – make sure to bring VELO Black Cherry along for your Portland pub crawl. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s mess-free and smoke-free, so you’ll never have to miss a moment (or a new microbrew).

Portland’s eccentricity doesn’t stop there – its food scene is yet another unique, yet top-notch aspect of its culture. Portland is known for its creative and exotic doughnut shops, five-star restaurants, farmer's markets, and most importantly: food pods.

Whether you’re craving seafood, tacos, or some hearty BBQ—you’re sure to find it at one of the several pods throughout the city. Food trucks and carts gather in various locations offering some of the country’s best street food. These pods have evolved to include fire pits, casual seating areas, and even live music. They’re scattered all over Portland, but the must-visits are located in North Mississippi, Central Eastside, and downtown. Just make sure you order some jojos—these fried potato wedges are a Portland fav.

The best part about Portland is that anything goes. Whether you’re looking to get inspired, get outside, or get crafty –there’s a crowd for it.  The energy in Portland is sure to invite you right in, and with VELO along for the ride—there’s nothing holding you back.