Whether you’re attending WordCamp for the first time or you’re a seasoned WordCamp veteran, one thing’s for sure: Portland is an incredible city to explore. Sure, WordCamp will keep you busy with sessions, workshops, and networking, but we all know that some of the best moments happen when you step outside the conference halls and experience the city. Here’s your local’s guide to Portland during WordCamp US 2025, because there’s a lot more to this city than meets the eye!
Start Your Day at a Local Coffee Shop
Portland is a coffee town through and through, and no visit is complete without starting your day with a cup from one of its many local coffee shops. Skip the chains and check out spots like Stumptown Coffee Roasters or Coava Coffee for a true Portland coffee experience. Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee, sit back, and plan your day at WordCamp.
What to Do Between Sessions: Walk the Waterfront
If you need a break from the conference room, head down to the Portland Waterfront for a stroll along the Willamette River. The waterfront park offers beautiful views of the river, downtown Portland, and Mount Hood in the distance. You can even hop on a ferry to get across the river to check out the Eastside Esplanade. It’s a peaceful way to reset between sessions and soak in the beauty of the city.
Dinner at Pine Street Market
Looking for a great dinner spot? Pine Street Market is your go-to dinner spot. This bustling food hall offers a variety of options, from local beers and specialty cocktails to ramen and fried chicken (yum!). It’s a great place to fuel up after the afternoon sessions and mingle with other WordCamp attendees who can’t stop talking about the content from the day. Plus, the atmosphere is full of energy, so you’re sure to feel the pulse of the Portland scene.
Portland’s Best Happy Hours – on a Rooftop
WordCamp is taking place in the height of summer and what better way to feel the sun peeking out from Portland’s weeks of rain than heading to a rooftop to catch all the rays? Check out Departure, which is likely Portland’s most famous rooftop bar. Or head to 10 Barrel Brewing Company to explore their massive tap list and snack on the Gorgonzola Nachos (you’re welcome). These are great places to unwind, network, and chat with fellow WordCampers. Happy hours here are more than just about drinks, they’re about building community and making connections.
Dinner and Drinks in the Pearl District
As the evening sets in, head over to the Pearl District, Portland’s trendiest neighborhood. Craft breweries and hipster bars line the streets, with restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table meals to international cuisine. If you’re looking for a place to relax after a full day at WordCamp, the Pearl is the place to be. Try Andina if you’re in the mood to feel fancy or Yama Sushi and Sake Bar if you’re looking to get your fill of sustainably sourced fish.
A Night at the Movies or a Show
After a day of WordCamp, why not catch a late-night movie or a live performance? Portland’s cinemas and independent theaters offer a variety of screenings, from indie films to classic favorites. Or, check out a local show, Portland’s live music scene is alive and thriving. For example, who doesn’t love the idea of revolving musical acts in Portland’s Living Room, the Pioneer Courthouse Square?
Portland: The City That’s Full of Surprises
When you attend WordCamp US 2025 in Portland, you’re not just attending a conference, you’re immersing yourself in a city that values creativity, community, and collaboration. From its quirky shops and artistic neighborhoods to its rich food scene and outdoor adventures, Portland will leave you feeling inspired and refreshed. Be sure to take some time to explore what makes this city truly unique. You won’t regret it!
(Interested? You can snag your tickets here)