Sure, Springtime in Portland means heading outside to enjoy gorgeous blooms and epic views. But it also means taking in plenty of the city’s peculiar offerings. Diverse and unexpected attractions make Portland one of a kind. This weekend, do as locals do and embrace the city’s quirky vibes, by checking out these ‘only-in-Portland-places.’
Freakybuttrue Peculiarium
An offbeat emporium that houses displays of Bigfoot and other paranormal denizens of the Northwest and beyond. Nearly everything is for sale, from the sculptures and artwork to scoops of ice cream in the snack shop.
Stark’s Vacuum Museum
Taking up a small wing of a vacuum store, this collection of 300 antique machines shows the progression of the vacuum cleaner over the years, from durable wooden devices of the 1800s to chic, space-age cleaners of the 1960s.
Mill Ends Park (The World’s Smallest Park)
At 24 inches (61 centimeters) in diameter, this is the world’s smallest dedicated park. Over the years, events have been held at the park and contributions have been made to the park, such as the small swimming pool and diving board for butterflies.
Paxton Gate
This eclectic shop on North Mississippi Avenue deals in exotic plants, taxidermy, animal skulls, curios and mounted insects — basically, everything you need to outfit your home like a Victorian naturalist.
The Hat Museum
The largest hat museum in the U.S. is housed in an unusual Portland home with an even more unusual history, including a 100-year hat legacy. Proprietor Alyce conducts each tour with enthusiasm she shares the history of hats and Ladd’s Addition.
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