As a newly 21-year-old, I feel as if I’ve been given the keys to the castle (freedom at last).
Heralded as one of the nation’s best in beer, Portland nightlife appears locked behind closed doors for UP students under 21. However, getting a drink is not the only way to have a good time in Portland. The city offers a multitude of under-21 spaces and events which can be found nearby in St. John’s or elsewhere.
In an effort to disprove any qualms with North Portland’s available activities, The Beacon has searched far and wide for some local highlights that all UP students should take advantage of during this four-year journey.
Grab a bite
Though I often fall victim to the siren call of McDonald’s and Taco Bell, I have to remind myself the University Park area has far greater to offer. With this in mind, here are some of my favorite local spots that have earned my loyalty.
Cathedral Coffee on North Willamette Boulevard
Cathedral, conveniently a 25-minute walk from campus, often contains familiar faces from the UP community. The book-covered walls create a great space to work on homework. There is quiet, tucked away outdoor seating, and Cathedral has one of the best mochas I’ve tasted — not limited to Portland.
King Burrito on North Lombard Street
Serving Mexican food for over 20 years in North Portland, King Burrito is an essential part of the neighborhood. Having come from Los Angeles, I was lucky enough to grow up around great Mexican food and I can say, unequivocally, King Burrito is the best that North Portland has to offer. If I could, I would have one of their carnitas burritos every day.
Catch a movie
Though streaming at home is the cheaper, easier movie-watching option, a night out at the theater by yourself or with friends is one of my favorite ways to treat myself.
St. John’s Theater on North Ivanhoe Street
Located in the heart of St. John’s, this old-school twin theater offers cheap tickets and concessions. I watched “Oppenheimer” here, and it felt like my friends and I had the theater to ourselves. I recommend trying to get a seat with railing in front of it for an added leg rest, as the seats don’t recline.
The Clinton Street Theater on SE Clinton Street
The Clinton Street Theater, a Portland staple, is self-described as a venue for all things weird and wonderful. “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” also runs every Saturday, both for “virgins” and returners. The Clinton Street Theater also puts on a variety of performances, films, drag shows and more.
Attend an event
Chill N Fill trivia night on North Lombard Street
Every Tuesday, Chill N Fill on North Lombard Street hosts a free all-ages trivia night with new categories every week. Having grown up playing a lot of Trivial Pursuit, I have historically done well at these trivia nights, but a win still eludes me. The questions asked are a real test for any level of trivia lover. Also, there are food trucks available outside offering great selections, my favorite being Happy Sushi and their crunchy California roll.
Independent Publishing Resource Center on SE Main Street
The Independent Publishing Resource Center (IPRC) offers a multitude of free mixed-media classes throughout the week. If you are interested in screen printing, zine making, letterpress and more, the IPRC is a great place to check out. Their next workshop is a mini-diorama making workshop on Sept. 21. They offer open studio spaces to the public as well, which can be reserved online.
Bridge City Sessions on SE Powell Boulevard
Though 20 minutes south of UP, Bridge City Sessions is definitely worth the trip to see live music. The sound quality is pristine and the venue is really intimate, which is important to me at a live show. Bridge City offers shows every weekend and on the occasional weekday. When they aren’t putting on shows, Bridge City is a screenprinting shop. For a more in-depth look into accessing the Portland music scene, read this article.
Explore nature
With over 300 parks to offer, Portlanders have the opportunity to connect with nature in many different places. Whether it be a hike in Forest Park through the towering Douglas firs, or a relaxing day on the beach along the Columbia River, Portland has an option for you.
Forest Park across the St. John’s Bridge
Forest Park is one of the prides of Portland, known as one of the largest urban forests in the country. With over 80 miles of trails, Forest Park is a haven for hikers of all levels. For a great view, I suggest Ridge Trail, which offers a beautiful overhead view of the St. John’s Bridge. For beginners, Lower MacLeay to Stone House, starting on NW Upshur Street, is a mellow hike with great nature views. Along this under 2 mile hike, you can see the tallest tree in Portland, standing at 242 feet.
For further information about parks and hikes, I recommend all outdoorsy folks check out this link to find all hiking trails in the City of Portland database.
Columbia, McKenna and Portsmouth parks
University Park residents are lucky to boast three parks within a two mile radius. All three offer open areas to lay down in the sun, trees to provide shade, swings — one of my favorite ways to feel like a kid again — and benches to sit down and work at.
Broughton Beach
While a trip to the coast is worth it, the two-or-more hour drive isn’t always feasible. Luckily, you can drive 20 minutes northeast to Broughton Beach alongside the Columbia River. Bring towels, blankets, snacks, drinks and tubes while you relax under the soon-to-be-leaving Portland sun.
Volunteering
For those looking to get involved in the community, here are a few Portland organizations with opportunities for volunteering.
Locally, the St. John’s Day Center offers shelter and necessities for those experiencing homelessness. SchoolHouse Supplies provides free resources for Portland teachers and needs volunteers to help sort and package materials. Also check out the Forest Park Conservancy if you are interested in getting involved with a nature conservancy project.
Ethan Sanders is a reporter for the Beacon. He can be reached at sanders25@up.edu.
