Most Beautiful Mosques of the World
Islam and Islamic countries Islam in EuropeIslam in RussiaIslam in China
Many of the countries of SE Asia are Muslim, or have substantial Muslim as well as Buddhist populations6.5 min video showing the year by year spread of Islam on a map, no words11 min podcast class on the spread of Islam, appropriate for Intermediate grades to HSMulti-episode histories of Islam on YouTube include Khan Academy (HS) and Yale University Portland’s Muslims Masjed As-Saber, largest Mosque in Portland--10323 SW 43rd Ave, Portland, OR 97219 Muslim Educational Trust--10330 SW Scholls Ferry Rd, Tigard, OR 97223; Scholls Ferry & Connestoga Islamic Center of Portland, Mosque--6940 SW Hall Blvd, Beaverton, OR 97008 Arab American Cultural Center of Oregon Arab American Community 15 Best Arab Restaurants in Portland (including other countries) Holidays of the Islamic year, beginning with the Muslim New Year 2023 Wednesday Jul 19, 2023 Hijra - Islamic New Year Friday Jul 28, 2023 Day of Ashura / Muharram. Sunni Muslims celebrate the parting of the Red Sea via Moses. Monday Oct 09, 2023 Milad un Nabi. Birthday of The Prophet. Wednesday Feb 07, 2024 Lailat al Miraj. The Prophets night journey to Jerusalem, command to pray 5x daily. Sunday Feb 25, 2024 Lailat al Bara'ah. Prayers for forgiveness before Ramadan. Monday Mar 11, 2024 Ramadan (start). Fast daily for a month during daylight hours. Saturday Apr 06, 2024 Laylat al Qadr. Quran/Koran revealed to Muhammed. Wednesday Apr 10, 2024 Eid-al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) Saturday Jun 15, 2024 Waqf al Arafa - Hajj. 2nd day of the Hajj pilgrimage Sunday Jun 16, 2024 Eid-al-Adha. Last day of the Pilgrimage, commemorates Abraham's sacrifice of his son. Food for Body & Soul Mostly finding recipes on the Internet, I have pared down my cookbooks. Arabia & Yemen I went searching for Arab Brothers food cart (10175 SE Stark St, Portland OR; not far from Mall 205), and found the unnamed cart pictured below at that address. It doesn't look the same as the photo/business on Yelp, which offers Acai bowls & Middle Eastern fare, so I'm not sure what's the deal. The cart pictured below does offer Arabic fare. It was closed when I was there, but the signs looked like they were in business. Egypt When I found out Small Pharaoh`s Egyptian and New Yorker Food which I had seen previously amongst the food carts at 340 SW 5th St was closed, I thought it would pose a difficulty for me to get to another place on my timeline (trying to post for Islamic New Year). But as I was wandering around Old Town looking for Turkish Cuisine, I happened upon Elmasry Egyptian Cuisine which seems to have taken its place at the corner of 3rd Ave & Washington St. What a delightful little accidental find! With the guy's guidance, I ordered what seemed most traditionally authentic Egyptian (other than the usual Mediterranean dishes). I was just as gratified to find the guy is Muslim. As I thanked him for being there, and explained why I care (I love exploring different cultures and cuisines), he was so pleased at my interest, that he made my order complimentary. Another example of the hospitality I have enjoyed from people of other cultures than my own heritage. El Masry Egyptian Cuisine--243 SW Washington St, Portland, OR 97204; 3rd Ave Food Cart Pod Morocco Tangier Restaurant, Moroccan--221 SW Pine St, Portland, OR 97204 https://www.tangierrestaurant.com/ This little place is 2.5 blocks west of Battleship Oregon Memorial and the Oregon Maritime Museum, Tom McCall Waterfront Park on the Willamette. River. I ordered the Moroccan Chicken with Olive preserved lemons and rice (I would have liked to get the raisin one, but as a diabetic, they were out). This dish was very good, the chicken fall-apart tender and seasoned just right, served with a pita. I dropped the mint lemonade I ordered before I could take a photo. (sad face) Since it's not wheelchair accessible, I took some photos through the window, while they brought out a menu, and then the food I ordered. Kasbah Moroccan Café—201 NW Davis St, Chinatown, Portland OR https://www.kasbahmoroccancafe.com/ Such an inviting atmosphere! I had trouble finding Davis St, no one I asked could tell me, and sometimes street signs are lacking. It’s 2 blocks west of Tom McCall Park, and a block south of Lan Su Chinese Garden; Davis St is a block south of Everett St. I knew some streets in downtown Portland follow an alphabetical scheme, but not all of them do, and I got turned around. About Morocco Moroccan Recipes Jordan Petra House (Petra is in Jordan)--1900 NE 162nd Ave, Vancouver, WA 98684 About Petra Lebanon Nicholas Lebanese & Mediterranean restaurant—323 N Main Ave, Gresham, OR 97030
Syria Habibi Syrian & Lebanese Cuisine--1012 SW Morrison St, Portland, OR 97205 Iraq DarSalam Lazurdi Restaurant & Catering, traditional Iraqi--320 SW Alder St, Portland, OR 97204 What an all-encompassing experience! The decor, the food, the extremely attentive and kind person who explained things and took good care of me. The screen on the wall has a captivating slide show of Iraq present and past. Babylon Mediterranean Restaurant--11139 SW Capitol Highway, Portland, OR 97219 I came on a weekend, so they were closed to make products for distribution. For my trouble (I had come a long way to find their place was closed and not wheelchair accessible) they were so kind as to give me a complimentary container of exquisite hummus. Nineveh Assyrian food truck-- 728 4th Ave E, Olympia, WA 98506; food trucks at 4th & Plum St Found this little gem in the rough on my trip to Olympia. By rough I mean the ground where the food trucks were parked. There were tables, and the menu of every truck was truly tempting. I enjoyed the Bourek, Assyrian meat eggroll, Sweet Potato Fries with delightful garlic dipping sauce (the fries as well as the Bourek were both good plain and with the dipping sauce). The pita of the Sabich wrap was a little tough, but the filling was great. The Fattoush salad topped with crispy pita chips I preferred when the chips were not quite as crispy, and it was easier to eat as a wrap, and still good when I got home. Persia/Iran About Iran/PersiaPersian Kabab--4th Ave between Hall & College St, Portland OR; food carts near PSU Turkey About TurkeyTurkish Agha--Eastport Food Carts--3905 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97266--excellent food, service, place (82nd Ave between Francis & Center St, across from Eastport Plaza Shopping Center) Afghanistan About Afghanistan A Taste of Afghan--Eastport Food Carts--3905 SE 82nd Ave, Portland OR 97266 Wonderful food, different from the usual. A young man perhaps her son helped with translating and serving Mediterranean/Middle Eastern Food in general--about as prolific as Mexican food nowadays (showing how popular the food is), here are just a few I ran into--some I tried (with delight), some I just saw: Falahi Bros Middle Eastern Cuisine--609 W 11th St, Vancouver WA 98660 Gyro House—Cora St & 82nd Ave, Portland OR Gyro and Shawarma Grill—Eastport Food Carts on 82nd Ave, across from Eastport Plaza Shopping Center Abu Rasheed Express--315 E. Main St, Hillsboro OR Gyro Spot—Hillsboro Station Food Carts & Bar--Baseline St between 3rd & 4th Ave, Hillsboro OR Portland Gyro--food carts near PSU: 4th Ave between Hall & College St, Portland OR Rosmary--food carts near PSU: 4th Ave between Hall & College St, Portland OR Shawarma Spot--food carts near PSU: 4th Ave between Hall & College St, Portland OR Shawarma Spot—Woodstock community, The Heist food cart pod, Portland OR Mediterranean orzo salad at home from the local grocery store India, Pakistan Desi Bites, Indian—2023 Chalk Art Festival, Hillsboro OR Pinch of Spice, Indian--Hillsboro Station Food Carts & Bar--Baseline St between 3rd & 4th Ave, Hillsboro OR Hyderabad Hub, Indian dishes--137 SE 3rd Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97123 "Hyderabad Hub restaurant located in Hillsboro downtown. It’s specialized in making authentic Indian food with wide variety of South Indian as well North Indian food like biryani, dosa, wraps, samosa and naan bread. Most popular dishes are butter chicken, mango lassi, naan bread , samosa and biryani.” Indian Hunger Point--Eastport Food Carts, 3905 Southeast 82nd Avenue, Portland OR Dhaba Indian Kitchen--food carts near PSU: 4th Ave between Hall & College St, Portland OR Old Taste of India--food carts near PSU: 4th Ave between Hall & College St, Portland OR Malaysia & SE Asia About Malaysia About Southeast Asia Much of SE Asia has a substantial or majority Muslim population, beside Buddhists. For more about these countries, see: Africa, east (Somalia) & west (inclu Ghana, Nigeria) West African foods East African foods Asona Cuisine, West African (Ghana & Jamaican fusion)—at the 2023 Chalk Art Festival, Hillsboro OR Try one or more of the following: Akadi PDX, West African inclu Nigeria etc—1001 SE Division Unit 2, not far east of river/Hwy 99 Amir’s Motherland Dish, Somali/East Africa—7100 NE Glisan St, Portland; 10:30-8pm Su-Th, 8:30 Fr, 9 Sa Mira’s East African & Mediterranean Cuisine, Somali—82nd & Davis, The Yard food carts Alleamin African Kitchen, Somalian—6939 NE Glisan; Montavilla area west of 82nd, Tues-Sun 11-8pm And/or 18535 SE Stark St near Gresham Europe--Bosnia
Feelings might still be tender in the Balkan states, between the Muslims and Christians. This post is not to minimize the pain of the last several hundred years, nor to trivialize complexities. This is only to acknowledge that there are Muslims in these countries. I still celebrate nearly every culture. 7 Restaurant, Bosnian—905 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660 It may be a little hard to find, but what enchanting decor (including a charming mural), kind and helpful staff, delicious food, especially the nut-stuffed apple.
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Life & Teachings Quick summary of his teachings: Comprehensive discussion of Buddha and influences A discussion of the different dates and types of celebrations for Buddha’s Birthday in various countries 10 Famous Buddha Statues (Note: the Buddha has been depicted in many different styles and poses) Statuary I happened upon at Portland Nursery--9000 SE Division, Portland, OR 97266
Buddhist Shrines/Temples Top 10 Most Beautiful Buddhist Temples in the World 10 Famous Buddhist Temples Nam Quang Vietnamese Buddhist Temple--3337 NE 148th Ave, Portland, OR 97230 Great statuary, gardens, places to meditate. Lots of interpretive signs, some with English translations. Leave your shoes at the door of the Temple and your cares at the gate. Master Kevin was so wonderfully helpful! Wat Buddhatham-Aram--4350 NE 133rd Ave, Portland OR Only caretakers were here when I found the place. They have event space for gatherings. Chùa Linh Sơn Buddhist Temple--2535 SE 118th Ave, Portland, OR 97266 Next to a Vietnamese restaurant, the gates of the Temple were closed when I went to see it. A tantalizing huge statue was frustratingly behind a tall tree from my view. Buddha's Birthday was May 5 in 2023 (see also the linked discussion at top of this page). Bửu Hưng Tu Viện Buddhist Temple--17808 NE 18th St, Vancouver, WA 98684 Photos taken Dec 22, 2019. Links to a few of about 40 Buddhist Temples/Centers listed in the Portland OR area
Mt. Adams Zen Buddhist Temple at the Trout Lake Abbey--46 Stoller Rd, Trout Lake WA 98650 We had a wonderful adventure exploring the Mt Adams (WA) area July of 2021. For more about that, see: Mt Adams Buddhist Temple at Trout Lake Abbey website
Buddhist Holidays & Ceremonies Top 5 Buddhist Holidays 3 New Years (Jan, Mar, Apr), Magha Puja (March), Vesak (May), Dharma Day (July), Kachina (Oct-Nov) Photos below from a friend's memorial a few years ago. Cultural Connections & Countries “Buddhism is the dominant religion in Bhutan, Myanmar, Cambodia, Mainland China [those that dare to be religious], Hong Kong, Japan, Tibet, Laos, Macau, Mongolia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Kalmykia and Vietnam. Large Buddhist populations live in North Korea, Nepal, India and South Korea. China is the country with the largest population of Buddhists”, though only an estimated 18% of China's population practice Buddhism, whereas about 97% of Cambodians, 95% in Thailand, 88% in Myanmar, and 70% in Sri Lanka are Buddhist. The Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience in Seattle WA had exhibits for immigrants from China, Japan, Vietnam, Burma/Myanmar, Cambodia, South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh), and a sample Buddhist altar at the time I visited. See 2nd link below. India—land of Buddha’s Birth, Life, Teaching, and Enlightenment Though India was the birthplace of Buddhism, only about .7% of the population in 2011 (unchanged from 1951) still practiced Buddhism, according to Pew Research. Yet there remain many shrines to Buddhism in the land. I couldn't travel to India, but pictured below are my explorations of Indian culture, not all of it Buddhist. I didn't have a chance to try all of the Indian restaurants/food trucks below, but I did try the mixes and prepared foods. 12 of the Most Famous Buddhist Temples and Monasteries in India Info on India's religious make up from Pew Research Chutneys Indian Restaurant, 3000 SE 164th Ave #100, Vancouver, WA 98683 Burma/Myanmar Top Burmese Burma Joy is a fun place to go if you can manage the tight streets, traffic, and parking challenges. The travel video I checked out makes going to Burma itself look really enticing (though not wheelchair accessible). Top Burmese Burma Joy--1305 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210
Cambodia & Laos Mekong Bistro--8200 NE Siskiyou St Suite 111, Portland OR Delicious food, often live music (see event link below), friendly & helpful service, plenty of free off-street parking, at least mid-day. Not sure when there's live music in the evening. China Links for more Chinese culture, including performances, gardens, museums, more food and restaurants, etc.Wong's King Seafood Restaurant, Portland, OR--closed by COVID 2020; now the location of Excellent Cuisine Chinese Food Restaurant; 8733 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97266 Japan Japan is reportedly about 70% Buddhist, including those who practice both Buddhism and Shinto. I love children's books because they are simplified learning, as you can see below.More about Japanese-American experiences at
Korea This was one of our little adventures into a cuisine we hadn't experimented with much yet, fall of 2022. We did enjoy the food. Some can make you cry in delight, one or two of the appetizers brought hot tears of almost regret (spicy hot Kimchee). In 2023 while visiting Olympia WA I found the Korean War Veterans Memorial. K-Town Korean BBQ Restaurant--8723 NE Hwy 99, Vancouver, WA 98665 Korean history Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington State Capitol campus, Olympia WA Mongolia Chang's Mongolian Grill--San Rafael Shopping Center, 1600 NE 122nd Ave, Portland, OR 97230 (just north of Halsey St & the Goodwill store, south of Winco, Wells Fargo etc--one of several locations) I give this place high marks for easy accessible parking as well as being a great place for people with dietary restrictions. You can adjust how much salty/soy and how many carbs for yourself, before your meal is cooked in a healthful way. The staff is friendly and helpful, the decor is pleasant and appropo. The restrooms are not wheelchair accessible: it was hard enough to enter, but I almost couldn't get out of the ladies'.About Mongolia, including history Malaysia, Singapore, & Indonesia My folks spent 18 months in Malaysia about 20 years ago, and my mom being interested in exploring cultures and cuisines, collected some recipes. She was so impressed that they could cook by smell, and that they were so dextrous. She saved the wrapping from a gift, and I used that to make a cover for the recipes she brought home. I was excited to find a place that serves food from Singapore, but despite the advertised hours, and the sign saying he'd be back at 4:15, he didn't make it back by then. I waited an extra 5 min, but it was a very hot day, so I couldn't wait longer. I can only assume that something came up and then he was detained longer than expected. The pictures on his food truck were very appealing, though. 21SG Foodie Singapura-- 2280 NW Burnside Ct, Gresham, OR 97030 (Gresham Food Carts) Gresham Food Carts--indoor & outdoor seating, a play area . . . Other Asian foods included Indian, Thai, and Lao fusion. There were hot dogs, Mexican, Mediterranean, Ukrainian, etc as well. Some of the outdoor seating was very appealing. 26 min informative tour guide for Borobudur & Prambanan 10 min video Borobudur & Prambanan Nepal, Tibet, & Bhutan Nepali Kitchen & Chai Garden--3434 NE 49th Ave, Portland, OR 97213 a little peace of paradise from city life Namo Buddha Himalayan Cuisine--the Heist food cart pod, 4727 SE Woodstock Blvd, Portland, OR 97206 menu link at The Heist link below The Heist Food Cart Pod in Woodstock community--4727 SE Woodstock Blvd., Portland, OR 97206
Taiwan Taiwan Bistro PDX--11136 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR 97219 Taipei Noodle House—11642 NE Halsey St, Portland OR; Wed-Mon 11am-9:30pm Yi Fang--Taiwan Fruit Tea at Washington Square Mall--9585 SW Washington Square Rd, Portland ORAbout Taiwan, including history Thailand Thai food is very popular, no problem finding it. Following are some I found & foto'd. Montira's Thai Cuisine, replaced by The Dalles Thai Cuisine--302 W 2nd St, The Dalles, OR; loved it, went twice Yellow Curry Cozy Thai--20 N. Holladay Dr, Seaside OR Thai Time Vancouver--11310 NE 49th St Suite 107, Vancouver, WA 98682 Talay Thai Cuisine--13510 NE 84th St #109, Vancouver, WA 98682 and more . . . About Thailand, including history Vietnam
Explored Vietnam through food, books, memorials. Kim Huong Vietnamese Restaurant, 2950 Silverton Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301 Unprepossessing exterior, lovely interior with delicious food and kind, friendly service. A Dong Asian Market next door. 15 best Vietnamese inspired recipes Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial
It's only about an hour's drive or less, south from Portland OR to Canby, where the Oregon Renaissance Faire was held in 2023 (and I'm supposing annually). The Google Gal directed me through Oregon City and south on Hwy 99E, which I was pleased to travel. Another time I hope to explore Oregon City more, especially the paved walk/bike path with views along the Willamette River. Entry & Facilities--694 NE 4th Ave, Canby, OR 97013 I became concerned about finding appropriate parking as I slowly inched forward in a line of traffic the last leg to the fairgrounds, saw full lots along 4th St, and lots of people walking toward the Faire. So when I beheld superb disabled parking at the Main Pavilion of the Clackamas County Fairgrounds, I quickly selected it, and hoped I would be able to roll the rest of the way. That turned out to be a prudent choice, for although when I reached the field parking at the Fairgrounds around 10:30am there was still plenty of parking, and it was flat, it wasn't paved and marked for deployment of my van's ramp. I went for the Pirate themed weekend, but I'm sure most of the vendors, food, and entertainment were the same for all three weekends. The third weekend was a Scottish theme. Booths Performers--scroll down to see more Wearables Fair Mary, Queen of Scots at the Faire with an entourage of courtiers Edible Fare at the Faire There were also plenty of places to get refreshments the likes of mead, ale, cider, and such. The Jousting Tournament More Booths Seventh Sun Archery--guest participation (for a price) activity Pot Thrower Raptor Booth & Show Cirque du Sewer--droopy-rope walker, rat trainer & comedian The Lynx Show--sword swallower, magician, comedian Broon--Fire Eater, Juggler, Comedian (juggled a bowling ball, burning torch, and an apple, taking bites as he juggled) Supernova the Strong Woman--broke a pencil, smashed an apple single-handedly, curled a steel frying pan into a burrito pan . . . incited audience participation. Bjorn's Battle Axe Toss More about the Renaissance . . .
Pirate Festivals Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland OR (I attended June 2022)
Danza Hueca Omeyocan A traditional Aztec dance group, the stamina of these 3 dancers was impressive. They performed for an hour, dance after dance, in continuous fast and fancy footwork to percussion and wind instruments (including a large sea shell). Their costumes were spectacular, especially the head dresses. Ballet Folklorico Paplotl = mariposa = butterfly This group performed a number of engaging dances in costumes of equal delight. The vivacious MC was so informative, while my rudimentary Spanish was lagging. Much of the program was given in both Spanish and English. Mariachi Ciudad de Guadalajara & Ballet Folklorcio Mexico en la Piel I got back late for this performance from exploring the carnival: what a mistake! It was a very popular show, and being height challenged, I could see nothing but backs, not the stage. A kind woman saw me taking a photo of a person taking photos, and offered to take a few fotos for me. Then she offered to help me move audience with my wheelchair. What goodness there is in the world! Super Encanto It began with a few children, but soon the floor was full of dancers, and I couldn't see the stage. It was a long day for me, my body hurting, so I didn't stay for the entire performance. Not a reflection on the performance, but on my limited physical endurance. Hispanic (and other) Foods at the Cinco de Mayo Festival 2023, Portland OR Beside the performances, my favorite part of the festival is the food. Unfortunately, I couldn't try everything, but here's an idea of the foods on offer (alternatively there was Asian, Mediterranean, Indian Fusion, and other options, but of course for Cinco de Mayo, I was most interested in Mexican cuisine. I took some of the photos as I arrived, before the crowds. Vendors, Activities, & Booths at the Cinco de Mayo Festival 2023, Portland OR The Carnival (scroll down to the next section) was at the north end of the Festival, including the Battleship Oregon Memorial. At the other end of the Festival was the Performance Tent, south of Yamhill. Carnival Rides, Games, Foods Typical carnival games, rides, and food choices were available at the north end of the Cinco de Mayo Festival. Portland Saturday Market Tom McCall Waterfront Park For more photos, scroll down to Japanese-American Historical Plaza at Scroll down to Tom McCall Waterfront Park at U of Oregon branch campus The sidewalk ramps on the south side of Couch St & Naito Parkway are steep with complex slopes. Additionally, someone had set a sign board at that corner, making it even more dangerous for a person in a wheelchair. The north side of that intersection is much better for disabled crossers. After 3 years' cancellation due to COVID restrictions, Portland OR's 2023 Cinco de Mayo Festival returned to Tom McCall Waterfront Park. I decided to take the bus to avoid having to deal with traffic and parking, and not only was it less hassle, it was cheaper, due to my TriMet bus discount ($5 for the day, I think--I used my prepaid HOP card). The address listed for Tom McCall Waterfront Park puts you at the Japanese-American Historical Plaza, so TriMet had me take Bus 12 from Parkrose/Sumner Transit Center, along Sandy Blvd and across the Burnside Bridge. I found that route interesting, but a more direct entrance to the Festival was at Yamhill & Naito Parkway, so I could have taken the MAX Redline--get off at Morrison/SW 3rd Ave by Pioneer Place shopping mall & walk .2 mi east. I suppose one could park by Pioneer Place and walk from there. The Cinco de Mayo festival area was from about Pine St (or, the Battleship Oregon Memorial Marine Park & the Oregon Maritime Museum) south past Yamhill. Some historical landmarks of PDX, including the White Stag sign: On the way, west along Sandy Blvd
I happened to notice a bus at Parkrose TC labeled Clackamas Towne Center (#71), which caught my attention, but I see from the route map that taking the MAX (Red then Green lines) would be more direct and no doubt quicker. I couldn't take decent photos from the bus, but noted some businesses & buildings that caught my eye as we traveled west along Sandy Blvd. I loved the architecture of the Churches I saw from the bus. The Grotto (scroll nearly to the end of
Ed’s Rock & Gem
Calvary Presbyterian Church, 71st north off Sandy on Fremont Lots of Asian & other restaurants, including Ben & Esther’s Vegan Jewish across from Safeway Word & Spirit Church, 62nd Rose City Park United Methodist Church, 58th Ave south of Sandy Blvd German American Society (estab 1871) 57th/Alameda St Our Lady of Lavang Parish, Giao Xu Duc Me Church west of the German American Society St Rose of Lima Catholic Church 54th Ave off Sandy, though not visible from Sandy Blvd Then there's a pretty steep hill (for those who may need to know, eg those in a wheelchair) Rose City Food Park https://www.facebook.com/RoseCityFoodPark/ US post office, 50th Ave Personal Mobility Ctr, right next to the Post Office, on 49th Portland Symphonic Choir, I noticed on the map, 45th Rose City Park Presbyterian, 44th St Michael & All Angels Church, 43rd Sandy Blvd passes through more than one neighborhood on its way west . . . Hollywood https://www.travelportland.com/neighborhoods/ general map of neighborhoods Portland Urgent Care, 42nd Old Hollywood Theatre—41st St Piccone’s Corner butcher shop—3434 NE Sandy Blvd https://picconescorner.com/ (amusingly right across Imperial Av from DeVita Oregon Kidney Center) Petite Provence Boulangerie & Patisserie—3420 NE Sandy Blvd 7th Day Adventists, 30th Ave Hollywood Vintage/Market (weekends, though I couldn't see any action as I passed)—27th Kerns Neighborhood https://portlandneighborhood.com/kerns a bit more detailed map of NE Portland neighborhoods Albertina Kerr non-profit for persons with disabilities & challenges https://www.albertinakerr.org/ Oregon Irish Dance Academy—1625 NE Sandy Blvd https://www.oregonirishdance.com/ on the map Portland Rock gym—Couch St https://www.portlandrockgym.com/calendar/ Portland Tennis Center 12th Ave, Portland City United Soccer Club w/big field(s) I saw on the map Burnside Bridge (Burnside & Burnside bus stop) Note: I've updated this post with a few fotos from trips my daughter's family made in Aug 2022, Sept 2023, and a trip I made by car to Alki Point the summer of 2023-- I had traveled to Seattle in Feb of 2022, hoped to see the Lunar New Year celebration. But that was postponed until the end of April, so I determined to return, this time by train. Day 1--Friday, 29 Apr 2022
Exploring Alki Point--summer 2023 by car Riding the Rails north to Seattle WA I tried to label all the train stations we stopped at or passed: some on the way north, some on the return trip south. But I'm going to order them here from south to north. As an experiment for an anticipated later trip Vancouver to Vancouver, I decided to leave from the Amtrak station in Vancouver WA. Sample Amtrak trip Portland OR to Seattle WA Kalama WA Downtown Kalama is a tiny place split by the Highway and the RR. But the community has a wider reach up the bluff to the east. The Kalama River is a great stretch of fishing, even including a tiny accessible spot. See 3rd link below (scroll down to “WDFW wheelchair Fishing Access, Kalama River WA”). Kelso-Longview WA I was so delighted by all the waterways along the trip, at first I intended to name them all. But that proves challenging, there are so many, and they wiggle to and fro. Castle Rock-Vader WA Here's where the train route and the highway route have gone their separate ways. The train was moving fast and the towns not in sight. Lots of rivers to cross, parallel for a bit, or meet from time to time as they weave their way and gather to travel toward the eventual ocean. Centralia WA Centralia has such a charming train station, but from the train I couldn't adequately take it in. This is a different view of Centralia than can be seen driving I-5. Lacey-Olympia WA Naturally, as with all the towns heretofore touched upon, there is much more to see and do in Lacey and Olympia than observed from the train traveling by. In 2022 we went to the Northwest Pirate Festival there, but it appears that will no longer be held. I hope to explore and publish more about both Lacey and Olympia in future posts.
JBLM—Joint Base Lewis-McChord, just south of Tacoma WA Every time I’ve traveled I-5 as far north as Tacoma and beyond, I’ve been so intrigued by the historic buildings of this joint army and air force base. Tough to get a good photo in a moving vehicle, but I finally managed to visit and get some still shots . . . see the links below. For info & photos of exhibits of the Corps of Discovery/Lewis & Clark Expedition, scroll down to “Captain Meriwether Lewis Memorial Park” and “Lewis Army Museum” at For more info & photos of JBLM in general, scroll down to “Joint Base Lewis-McChord”, nearly at the bottom of Tacoma WA I traveled to Tacoma and vicinity several times by car to explore and gather info and photos. Indubitably, there’s yet more to investigate, but you can get teasers at Tukwila & Puyallup WA
King St Amtrak Station, Seattle WA It took some courage to take the train to Seattle on my own, because 1) looking at online mapping again and again I couldn't tell if I'd run into trouble wheeling between the train, sites to see, and the nearest hotel, and 2) without my vehicle, I wouldn't have all my backups and things I take for granted that I always have with me. So I bought and brought back-up batteries for my chair and cell, packed to be able to carry all my baggage for 4 days on my electric wheelchair, and decided to stay in just one place all three nights. There were challenges: it was a learning experience, but mostly all went well. I was happy. King Street Amtrak Station, Seattle WA Embassy Suites hotel & Zephyr restaurant--255 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104 This is an exceptional choice for location as well as comfort; not inexpensive. It's right next to the King Street Amtrak Station and Lumen Field. It's within walking/rolling distance of Chinatown (via the elevator inside the Amtrak station), the waterfront, and sights to see/things to do around Pioneer Square and the flat part of downtown Seattle. The Zephyr is accessed from inside the hotel. Where to park and eating options See also "In the Vicinity of Embassy Suites & King Street Station" below. 13 Coins Restaurant--associated with (and can be accessed from) Embassy Suites, 255 S King St, Seattle, WA Reservations recommended. Not really wheelchair friendly. Rather overpriced, I thought, but the food was good. I took my order back to my room. See link above about dining at Embassy Suites. Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park, Seattle Unit--319 2nd Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104 When I first became acquainted with this venue, I was expecting a park. There is such a park in Alaska, but it seems now they have updated the name of this place as the Seattle Unit. It’s a museum, not a park. But it is a wonderful place to go, with 2 floors of exhibits (connected by steep stairs, but an elevator as well) and 20-25 min films. The Kerr room has rotating exhibits. FREE. It's only a block (easy walk) north of Embassy Suites.
Waterfall Garden Park—219 2nd Ave S, Seattle WA (and the Fire Dept Museum) Only a block (easy walk) north of Klondike Gold Rush Park/Museum is this tiny park. Really interesting brief history at the link below. (Click on the “Getting Here” tab and scroll down to find 5 neighborhood public restrooms). Across Main Street from the Waterfall Garden Park is the Fire Dept Museum/Seattle Fire dept Headquarters, 301 2nd Ave South (at S. Main St) in Pioneer Square.
Occidental Square & Occidental Ave--117 S Washington St, Seattle, WA 98104 Half a block west of Waterfall Garden Park (on Main St) is Occidental Square, and across from it, Occidental Ave: restaurants, shops, play areas for young and old . . . Chinatown/Lunar New Year--2022 Year of the Tiger More info, links, and photos about the International district, scroll down atShort article about Seattle’s Chinatown history, present, and future Preamble perambulation to & around Chinatown-International District, Seattle WA I was worried about getting a good spot to see the performances for the Lunar New Year Celebration, so left early on the cool and moist morning. When I arrived, I saw that I had time and opportunity to explore a bit, and I thought I should try to find something to put over my lap and legs. Historic Union Station The Publix Hotel Hing Hay Park—423 Maynard Ave S (King St between 6th Ave & Maynard) Chong Wa Benevolent Association Uwajimaya Asian Food & Gift Market-- 600 5th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104 Daiso Japan--710 6th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104
Lunar New Year Performers, Seattle WA 2022 The sun turned out to shine on a beautiful day for the performances. More and more folks arrived, and it seemed to be a great success, after having been cancelled for COVID previous year(s). For additional photos and info, including some of the many offerings of food, scroll down to "Chinatown, Seattle WA 2022" at Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience--719 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104 With all my wheeling around Chinatown, my wheelchair used up all its juice. I had brought a battery, but wasn't familiar enough with how to use it for it to be of any help. I also had a charging cord, and the staff was so helpful that I could plug in to get enough charge to get back to my hotel. It was too late to see all of the exhibits at the museum, and the assistant director was kind enough to issue me a pass for the next day. It's a place really worth taking the time to tour thoroughly! Of course there's more to see than what is shown here. Parting shots of Chinatown, Seattle WA International District/Chinatown transit station Wheeling the Waterfront to Centennial Park & beyond I covered the Seattle Aquarium on my previous trip The Seattle Waterfront (See also "Wings over Washington" below.) Best Western Plus Pioneer Square--77 Yesler Way, by Alaskan Way & the waterfront
Bell Harbor Marina Anthony's restaurant Norwegian Cruise Line World Trade Center Port of Seattle, Pier 69—2711 Alaskan Way Seattle WA Myrtle Edwards Park---3130 Alaskan Way, Seattle WA
Centennial and Elliott Bay Parks Walk or roll/bike through these parks, along the flat, paved trail . . . can be glorious! Fantastic views of the Olympic Mountains when the skies permit. I had no problem with my electric chair running out of power. Places to picnic or ponder, restrooms . . . the fishing shelters were closed when I was there. Beside the small rose garden, amenities include: shoreline, run, bike, picnic, photo, fish, pet walk, minimal exercise equipment, interpretive signs, Native American art, memorial . . . Elliott Bay Trail Centennial ParkSmith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 Wings Over Washington & Miner's Landing--Pier 57 on Alaskan Way, downtown Seattle Waterfront I had some time before boarding my train for home, and decided to check out the attractions at Miner's Landing. Having a fear of heights, I didn't try the Seattle Great Wheel, but thought the "Wings over Washington" experience would be fun. Well, I'm so glad I did it (they can accommodate wheelchairs, though getting into/out of the theater was challenging in a wheelchair). I knew I was perfectly safe, yet some of it was a bit unnerving for a person with acrophobia. The theater seating actually moves into a position to make the flying experience as nearly real as possible. Naturally, I couldn't take photos of the actual ride, but see what you can see at this link: In the Vicinity of Embassy Suites & King Street Station As I wandered about Embassy Suites, I found an interior entrance to the parking garage and Hawk Tower. I continued my wanderings in the vicinity. Hawk Tower--522 Stadium Pl S, Seattle, WA 98104 (address of the parking garage) Pioneer Square in General--places to see, eat, stay, etc. Lumen Field--800 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134 King Street Center--201 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle at Night--Aug 2022 (fotos courtesy my daughter's family) University of Washington--Aug 2022 (photos courtesy my daughter's family)U Wow photo of Spring Cherry Blossoms at UofW More U Wow photos of Spring Cherry Blossoms at UW Hiroki, Japanese & European desserts--2224 N 56th St, Seattle, WA 98103, not too far from UofWA and Woodland Park Zoo (from a trip my daughter's family made Aug 2022)
Seattle Sept 2023--courtesy my daughter's family The Space Needle, Seattle Center, and Pike's Place Market--a few fotos from Sept 2023 The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop)--325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98105 (Seattle Center Campus)
Revisiting Woodland Park Zoo--5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103 There's More to Explore--Seattle WA West Seattle-Alki Point-Seahurst (summer 2023) I was fortunate: the day I came to explore was a glorious day for views of Seattle & the Olympics! I could have had a magnificent sight of Mt Rainier if I'd had time and legs. həʔapus Village Park & Shoreline Habitat--4500 Duwamish River Trl, Seattle, WA 98106 (part of Herring’s House Park) Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center--4705 W Marginal Way SW, Seattle, WA 98106 Herring's House Park--4570 W Marginal Way SW, Seattle, WA 98106 A 15 acre green space in an industrial area along the Duwamish River. Next to həʔapus Village Park & Shoreline Habitat, and across from Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center. Seacrest Park (Coves 1 & 2)—1660 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle WA
Don Armeni Boat Ramp--1222 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116 Alki Beach Park and vicinity--along Alki Ave SW Harbor Ave SW literally "turns" into Alki Ave SW. The park includes a pier, 8 volleyball courts, a bathhouse & lawn, Statue of Liberty Plaza, public restroom, stone/pillar honoring Chief Seattle (at 3099 63rd Ave SW & Alki Ave SW). I happened along on an Art Festival Day, so the traffic & parking were packed. It's a popular place, and I expect has plenty of events crowded into the calendar. This area is a tight neigborhood full of residences and restaurants & shops/vendors for tourists and residents. From the map I see Alki Playground and Whale Tail Park just a block or so from Alki Ave: 59th Ave SW & SW Lander St—59th is near bathhouse. The SW Seattle Historical Society museum (the "Log House Museum") is at 3003 61st Ave SW, Seattle, WA. The 1913 Alki Point Lighthouse parking log is at 3201 Alki Ave SW, and it's a short walk/roll to the lighthouse. It's an active Coast Guard site, has free tours in summer. Me-Kwa-Mooks Park--4430 Beach Dr SW, Seattle, WA 98116 Alki Ave SW turns south into Beach Dr SW as it bends around Alki Point. The map shows some small parks on the way to Me-Kwa-Mooks park. This park straddles the street, with a water side and a hill side that includes grassy room to run, picnic tables & grills. I was having trouble with my van ramp, and it just so happened firemen were training at the park, and were so kindly & cheerfully of service in helping with it. I was so grateful for their strength, because the ramp is really difficult to pull out manually. Lowman Beach Park--7017 Beach Dr SW, Seattle, WA 98136 Tiny Lowman Beach Park is at the junction of Beach Dr SW, 48th Ave SW, and Lincoln Park Way SW. As I recall, it just has very tight, limited street parking. It was difficult to get decent shots, let alone get out of my vehicle. Lincoln Park--8011 Fauntleroy Wy SW, Seattle, WA 98136 Lincoln Park Way SW merges with 47th Ave SW, then Fauntleroy Way SW as you drive south. Parking lot #1 is at about SW Rose St, #2 about Cloverdale St, on Fauntleroy. Lincoln Park is substantial, with lots of amenities. I explored the south end of it first, then went back up to the north end. The road and path down to the beach were way too steep for me in my wheelchair. Across from the northern corner of Lincoln Park is Solstice Park--7400 Fauntleroy Wy, where 47th Ave meets Fauntleroy. Its interest is in the solstice & equinox stones, tennis, and hiking. Fauntleroy Ferry (2 boats) is close by, to the south (see sign in the photos below) Seahurst Park--1600 SW Seahurst Park Rd, Burien, WA 98166 (not far from Sea-Tac airport)
Use a map app to find Seahurst Park.
Among other amenities the airport has rail service to Seattle. Folks were always looking for ways to make easier traveling to the rich Willamette valley in Oregon country, as well as to California. So the trail changed considerably over the years, and more and more variants became options. Here's a link to a great article: see also At the end of this post you'll find The End of The Oregon Trail. On my way home from Biggs Junction OR one time (on I-84), on a whim I made my own "Decision at The Dalles" to try to drive the Barlow Road. There's a sign to get you started up the hill from The Dalles for traveling the Barlow: take Hwy 197 south towards Dufur. Up above the gorge of the Columbia River are beautiful orchards and rolling grain fields. Dufur OR
About 15 mi south of Dufur turn right onto Tygh Valley Rd (opposite Hwy 216), unless you want to take a little detour to White River Falls State Park not far east on Hwy 216. I missed my turn, and turned around at a wide spot off the road where stood a stack of hay, interrupting a deer making the most of it. Thus, the photo above right is coming back up from south of the right turn. The little community of Tygh Valley is at the base of the hill that takes in a splendiferous view of the Valley as you drive up Wamic Market Rd. Bend with Wamic Market Rd though town (Wamic) until it straightens itself out to become White River Rd (aka Rock Creek Dam Rd?) to continue traveling the modern equivalent of the Barlow Road. But there are events, places to go/things to do about these tiny towns as well. White River Falls State Park—about 15 mi south of Dufur turn onto Hwy 216, it’s not too far Tygh Valley OR--16 mi South of Dufur OR
Historical Smock Prairie School, now a museum The Cottage by the Creek-- 57036 Wamic Market Rd, Wamic, OR 97063 Pine Hollow Lakeside Resort—just northwest of Wamic, at Pine Hollow Reservoir I had more than one adventure on this trip into the dark! My tank had plenty of gas, but eventually I was down to 19% phone battery. I had an annotated map, but still came to an unexpected fork in the road and fortunately chose the right one, which was left. I made it to Rock Creek Reservoir. It was wonderful country for a drive, but then winding up into the mountains, I began wondering how far my destination lay ahead, and when it would be too far to turn back. Some rather rugged roads, with signs warning "Not maintained for winter driving", seemed apparently not maintained for spring/nearly summer, either. Beside being rough riders, shrubs were invading the edges. There was no stopping for pictures. Then suddenly I faced a detour. With no familiarity with the roads or terrain, hardly knowing where I was, I was relieved to find reassurance from another traveler (few and fairly far between). Next, a warning, "Single lane ahead". Since I was driving solo, I took photos with my cellphone and sent them home in case I had to be rescued (as it turned out, they didn't get them until I was already home). As I drove I felt some small notion of what it might have been like traveling through the tall trees up the thickly forested mountain in a covered wagon for days and days in the cold and probable snow. Snow still lay along Rd 48 near the intersection (at last!) with Hwy 35. My original intent was to travel south from Hood River to meet Hwy 26 and the Barlow Route. Yet when I reached Hwy 35, I didn’t know which way to turn, so took a guess and watched for mile markers. Once again, I was fortunate to have made a choice choice. South of the intersection of Rd 48 with Hwy 35, turning off to see the Pioneer Woman’s Grave (also near the intersection of 35 and 26), did not turn out to be a good choice—the road much less taken at that time of year was paved, but narrow and shady, the snow wet & slippery. My vehicle (with me in it) nearly got stuck trying to turn around, and it was getting dark. My thoughts were chilled at the possibility/prospect of having to spend the night alone on a cold snowy mountain road off the main highway. I had emergency supplies, but it would mean climbing clear to the back of the car, as I daren’t get out into the snow. I could only hope I had enough battery and coverage to call for help if needed (now I have a car with cellphone charging). Thankfully I did finally get some traction, got turned around, and headed home along Hwy 26. Government Camp OR--50 mi east of the End of the Oregon Trail in Oregon City The map app says that it takes an hour and 20 min to travel those 50 miles: mind-blowing for a pioneer on the Oregon Trail, despite road improvements since then, or should I say beside road improvements! This little jewel community near historic Timberline Lodge features skiing and other tourist activities one would find on a mountain, including a Chalet theme. The small museum at Government Camp has a bit about the Oregon Trail. Government Camp OR Mt Hood Cultural Center & Museum, Government Camp OR More info about Mt Hood, the area around it, and Hwy 26 Laurel Hill--only accessible eastbound, and not that accessible at that Rhododendron OR To find the little monument for the Oregon Trail, watch for the sign for E. Little Brook Lane, and the Barlow Road marker, west end of town. The little monument is right there off Hwy 26. It’s historic in its own right, erected 1916. Wildwood Recreation Site—39 mi east of Portland OR, near Welches Right at the entrance, behind a fish art gate is where we saw an inconspicuous marker for the Barlow Road. For more photos and info, scroll down to the bottom of the first link below, and check out the others as well. Sandy OR--27 mi east of downtown Portland OR, but it takes about an hour's drive due to traffic (at best) I was attempting to check out places to go up on Mt Hood too early in the year, and ended up with some time to explore Sandy, to my delight. Only the gift shop of the museum was open, due to COVID restrictions, but they had beautiful displays for the Barlow Road of the Oregon Trail, and I got vital info about other places: Jonsrud in particular was an excellent sight site. Second site below shows and tells more.
Phillip Foster Farm--22725 SE Eagle Creek Road, Eagle Creek OR 97022 What a wonderful place to go! They have annual and special events like apple cider pressing and various camps, tours, living history . . . Baker Cabin--corner of South Hattan & South Gronlund Roads, Carve OR (18005 S Gronlund Rd, Oregon City) We went for an event day, and how glad we did! The pioneer, Horace Baker, was a stone mason, and I got a chance to give it a little try 😊! The place is not super accessible for a wheelchair, but we managed most of it. The people/volunteers are very friendly and helpful.
Barton Mercantile (Store) with Oregon Trail mural--19009 SE Barton Park Rd, Boring, OR 97009 aka Clackamas Hwy 224 The Applegate Trail
The Applegate Trail cuts off The California Trail and heads northwest from what is now Nevada. I became aware of it while traveling I-5 in southern Oregon, and was intrigued. The furthest south I got was the Valley of the Rogue State Park east of Grant's Pass OR, so that's where I'll start. Valley of the Rogue State Park—13 mi east of Grant’s Pass OR on I-5 I stopped here on my way back from Mt Shasta on a rainy day. The park just happened to be hosting a chainsaw carving event in conjunction with Oregon State Parks centennial--all the more delightful for me! Not many had come on such a day, but I was glad I did. Apparently it is a very popular park in the summer. I thought it would make a good place for a reunion gathering, and of several yurts, one is accessible. For more about this park, see links below.
Manzanita rest area, just up the hill north of Grant’s Pass on I-5 This is such a pleasant place to stop, rest, picnic, potty, run off some energy . . . for more about this place: Applegate Trail Interpretive Center—Sunny Valley OR, 14 mi north of Grants Pass Such an intriguing place, but still closed since COVID, “until further notice.” More photos & links at Wolf Creek OR—20 mi north of Grants Pass, off I-5 I finally got to see the Oregon Trail part of this place, on an “island” in front of the Inn. I didn't see a ramp for the curb, or it was blocked, but by parking my vehicle next to the curb where the gravel path was, I could deploy my ramp onto the path. The gravel was angular, so though not easy, I was able to traverse it around the loop of interpretive signs & exhibits in my electric chair it wasn't the death of me. Will be updating link below with more pictures of this little community. Canyonville OR--42 mi north of Grants Pass, 203 mi south of Portland "As I drove south on I-5, on a sudden I saw a sign about Applegate info, and took the exit to Canyonville. A Google search and a call to the local Pioneer & Indian Museum furnished me with directions to Pioneer Park (E 5th St & Canyon Ave), where the highway department has built an attractive open structure to house excellent information about the Applegate arm of the Oregon Trail." I wrote in my post, which see for more pics and info about the park, the museum, and the community (will be updating with more about Stanton Park): More links Roseburg OR—26 mi north of Canyonville, 178 mi south of Portland on I-5 I loved the Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History! Only a part of it is dedicated to the Oregon Trail--it has lots of other great exhibits--but here I'll just focus on the Oregon Trail. For more about Roseburg:
Drain (& Scottsburg) OR--a few miles west of I-5, on the Umpqua Hwy (Hwy 38) On my way back from the coast on Hwy 38 (from Reedsport) I unexpectedly came across a little history connected with the Oregon Trail, in the tiny hamlet of Scottsburg & the village of Drain. A railroad was built through Drain OR, and an overland stage route between Drain & Scottsburg. The stage route linked the RR in Drain to the paddlewheel river boats in Scottsburg (shipping things to and from the coast). The OR History sign in Scottsburg says, "Few Oregon communities have had a more colorful history than Scottsburg. It was named for Levi Scott, a pioneer of 1844, who homesteaded here and founded the town in 1850. There was a tower down at the head of tidewater on the Umpqua River which became the site of business houses and mills. A mile upstream was the upper town, the distributing and shipping point for the mining regions and communities of southern Oregon. As many as 500 pack animals could be seen loading here at one time. The decline of the community began with the opening of ports nearer the market points in southern Oregon and northern California, and the railroad building further inland. In December, 1861 a great flood wiped out the lower town. Here in April, 1854 was published the first newspaper in southern Oregon, the Umpqua Weekly Gazette.” Cottage Grove OR—51 mi north of Roseburg OR, 128 mi south of Portland on I-5 "Several times I’ve seen a sign about Applegate (one branch of the Oregon Trail) information at a Cottage Grove exit. I had a chance to take that exit on my trip to visit the Redwoods and Crescent City. Unfortunately, it was the back way in, and 6 miles from the city itself. I suggest taking exit 174 straight on to Gateway Blvd and follow it until it meets Main St, then turn right onto Main Street. The Veterans Park has the interpretive signs about the Applegate (Oregon) Trail. It’s on W Main St and River Road." I wrote in my post. More about Cottage Grove at the links below.
Salem OR--Oregon's state capital; about an hour south of Portland by freeway, depending on the traffic Early missionaries/settlers in the Willamette Valley came before the Oregon Trail was entirely "finished"; some got there by ship. I'm supposing it was from good reports of the Willamette Valley that it then became the major impetus for the Oregon Trail, at least before gold was discovered in California. For more about Salem & the wondrous Willamette Heritage Center campus, scroll down at the third link below. Willlamette Mission State Park—8 mi north of Salem OR
Oregon City McLoughlin House (administered by Ft Vancouver National Historic Site)--713 Center St, Oregon City OR Clackamas County Historical Society Museum aka Museum of the Oregon Territory--211 Tumwater Dr, Oregon City, OR 97045More about the Oregon Trail, McLoughlin, and the Museum of the Oregon Territory at End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Oregon City OR (metro Portland) For years I have wanted to get to this place, and at last I made it!
Pittock Mansion--3229 NW Pittock Dr, Portland, OR 97210 Although I had visited the fabulous Pittock Mansion a couple years ago at Christmas (a dazzling experience), it's worth going in summer as well, as there is so much to see outdoors (Wow! views) and in. And though the mansion wasn't built until 1914 (with cutting edge technology of the time), Pittock built it especially for his wife in their older years. He had emigrated to the Pacific Northwest on the Oregon Trail in 1853, and led an adventurous life. It's one opportunity to see what people did after traveling the Oregon Trail. To see it at Christmas, scroll down at the 2nd link below. I will yet post more pics of our summer visit of 2023. More and More about the Oregon Trail! Below are videos of traveling the Oregon Trail--a 15-day trip traveling along the Oregon Trail from it's beginning. More about that (eastern) end than the Oregon end, but that's the part I could not travel myself. He does a good job of showing where he's going on the map and tells/shows some interesting details. You might want to pause or watch again to take it all in. “In Search of the Oregon Trail” aired on PBS Apr 29, 1996 (imperfect copy linked below)
Landmarks or Stops on the Oregon Trail (and related articles) by USA Today National Historic Trails Interpretive Center—Capser WY Oregon Trail sites in Wyoming National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Baker City OR
Grant’s Getaways: The Oregon Trail (Hell’s Canyon & the Baker City OR area)
Bonneville Lock and Dam As with every river, there are 2 sides, and Bonneville Dam has a visitor center on both the Oregon side and the Washington side. Both sides have recreational opportunities and historical displays (more extensive on the Oregon side). I think both are worth visiting. Recreation on Robins Island and Bradford Island--on a wet day Recreation info: Bonneville Lock Bradford Island Visitor Center, Bonneville Lock & Dam OR Bonneville Dam Bookstore/Gift Shop and Info Bonneville Fish Hatchery on an overcast, sometime rainy day My own little Sturgeon Fest, Bonneville Dam & Beyond 2.5 min video of 100 year old sturgeon caught in the Pacific Northwest 5 min video about sturgeon research in the Pacific Northwest Bonneville Dam--WA Hwy 14 The Dalles Dam--built 1952-1957 We take for granted the reasons the dams were built on the Columbia River, one of which was flood control.
John Day Dam--east of Biggs Junction & Hwy 97 on I-84 in OR, and Maryhill on Hwy 14 in WA McNary Dam--off Hwy 730, east of Umatilla OR The visitor facilities was closed for so long for COVID, but at last I was able to visit, and I made it with only an hour to take in the Visitor Center. Sorry that I have a fear of heights which curbed my chance to take photos from the walkway at the top of the Visitor Center. So desperate for a restroom, I was extremely grateful for the accessible facilities.
McNary Dam fishing videos included walleye, shad, steelhead, salmon, sturgeon. McNary Beach Recreation Area--above McNary Dam, 3 mi east of Umatilla OR, off Hwy 730
OR Route 82 is a 70 mi state highway from La Grande to Joseph. Also called the Wallowa Lake Hwy, a part of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, it appears to have an identity crisis as it takes its turns through the towns along the way. Thus, some of the street addresses of places on this highway might disguise their location on the road. My best laid plans for this trip went a bit awry, but things worked out alright in the end. I made it to the Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce in Enterprise OR before it closed at 5pm, en route to Joseph. That was a very good chance to gather info on places I wanted to go (or at least to reference), and to ask questions.
Coming into Joseph OR from the North on Hwy 82, which becomes Main St in Joseph Dinner at La Laguna Mexican Restaurant After unloading at my lodgings, I went searching for a place to eat north of the Lodge. The Blythe Cricket was already closed for the day. The sunset reminded me of a previous trip when I had taken too long to decide where to eat so that the place I wanted to go was closed. I chose to eat at La Laguna Mexican Restaurant, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. It was a great choice. I noted quite a number of tables on the outside, and the employee said they had about 10 others beside, indicating just how popular the place is in summer. Mt Joseph Lodge, Joseph OR Mt Joseph Lodge has a rustic charm that draws you in, and I would have enjoyed it greatly but for a few drawbacks for a person in a wheelchair. Although there's a handy handicapped parking space right in front on Main St, the wheelchair entrance is on Alder St around the corner. I was glad the parking spot there was paved with enough room for my ramp to deploy, and the gravel on the other side of the pavement had enough vegetation so that I could manage not to get stuck or spin out. The room with the roll-in shower is nearly clear around the pleasant veranda (except for what I assume were temporarily stored appliances). It was a beautiful room with many nice features. But, the roll-in shower didn't have a bench, and the shelf was much too high for me to reach. I found a stool at Joseph Hardware that was perfect for my need. The space between the bed and the wall was hardly wide enough for my 24" wheelchair, and the bed was very high, without a helpful bedside table to assist my ascent. No staff on site, and I could not get a response from a phone call. Oregon's Alpenfest, Joseph OR Oregon's Alpenfest may be more modest than the Mt Angel Oktoberfest (but less hectic and thronged, as well), yet it's in an exceptional setting of alpine grandeur. The magnificent Wallowa Mountains are in constant view from Joseph OR. Sometime the Alpenfest is held at the rodeo grounds, but in 2022 that was needed as a base to fight fires in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. I was thankful the air was not full of smoke! The festival was moved to the Community Center. I went there for breakfast and to check out the craft booths before lots of people came, then went to explore the town of Joseph. It's only about 14 blocks from end to end, easily traversed by walking or wheeling--that is, when they are finished with the sidewalk renovations in progress when I was there. Still, I could roll most of the way up and down Main. I returned to the festival for the afternoon program and lunch. I was there before the crowds, which suited me.
For more about Swiss & Swiss-American culture, yodeling, the accordion, and such, scroll to the end of this post. Exploring Joseph OR The town of Joseph started out with names memorializing the lake, but in 1880 changed its name to memorialize Chief Joseph of the Wallowa band of the Nez Perce tribe, the original inhabitants of the area. Each summer the rodeo and related events held there is called Chief Joseph Days. The town doesn't have any historic Swiss or Bavarian ties, but the area is known as Little Switzerland because of the Wallowa (quite spectacular) mountains.
Joseph OR, north to south--highlights, mainly traveling down Main Street, cross streets noted below
Iwetemlaykin, Old Chief Joseph Gravesite, and Wallowa Lake Iwetemlaykin State Heritage Site--south edge of Joseph, Hwy 351 From the brochure, it looks like maybe the best way for persons in wheelchairs might be to access from the south end of Main St (don't turn when the main road becomes 8th). Old Chief Joseph Gravesite & Cemetery, Nez Perce National Historical Park--Hwy 351 just south of Joseph OR This was the father of the famous Chief Joseph. Wallowa County Park--north end of Wallowa Lake, about a mile or so south of Joseph OR, Hwy 351 This is an exceptional view of both the lake and the Wallowa Mountains. Wallowa Lake along Hwy 351 south of Joseph OR Wallowa Lake State Park--6 mi south of Joseph OR, 77 mi (over an hour and a half) from La Grande Wallowa Lake Community--right next to Wallowa Lake State Park, 6 mi south of Joseph OR Tourist activities to keep family, friends, and/or sweethearts engaged for days in this little community, such as mini golf, go-karts, tram up the mountain, hiking, picnic places, camping, cabins, resorts, hotels, restaurants, gift shops . . . Little Alps State Park, a day-use area is at the end of the road (not far).
Enterprise OR
Eagle’s View Inn & Suites--1200 Highland Avenue, Enterprise, OR 97828 What exceptional views of the Wallowa mountains from this hotel! How appropriately named, for both the bird's soaring perspective, and the Eagle Cap Wilderness in prospect. What great prospects of having a relaxed and easy stay with such easy access to my bed. I called it an early night to rest my weary self. Directions: At the top of the hill west of town, turn north off Hwy 82 on Highland Ave. It's west of the Baptist Church and the Enterprise welcome sign. Make a right where you see the stop sign; the FS ranger station is further north up the Highland Ave hill. The exterior of the hotel itself is sort of non-descript and I didn't see a sign reassuring me I was in the right place, but it's the only hotel-looking building there. Around town, Enterprise OR Hwy 82 literally turns into River St as it enters Enterprise from the southeast. The skate/basketball/baseball park is before that curve comes, Moonshine Glass Art is just at the curve, but it doesn't look that easy to get to. When I was there it looked the best way for a handicapped person would be to pull into the Dollar Stretcher Groceries (where you can get parking lot where you can access a ramped sidewalk. From the map it looks like you can get to the Glass Art place from S River St, to the left coming 'round that bend, before you actually see the Moonshine Glass Art. Hwy 82 turns west on North St, and north of North St, Depot St changes into NW 3rd. Three streets north of North St on NW 3rd is Garfield and the Wallowa County Fairgrounds where Hells Canyon Mule Days are always the weekend after Labor Day. Take SW Depot or SW 2nd south to family and community friendly Enterprise City Park which has a playground, picnic areas (including for groups), restrooms, lots of room to run, courts to swing a racket . . . More around Enterprise OR, and vicinity I had read that one could fish in Marr Pond, but I had a difficult time trying to find public access to it. My best advice is to continue south on SW Depot or SW 2nd St to SW Thorpes Lane. Go west on SW Thorpes past Montclair St. You'll get glimpses of the pond, and at the west end of the pond around an old industrial building you might be able to get to the pond. SW Depot makes a T with Fish Hatchery Lane, and the fish hatchery (dating back to 1939) is not far to the west and well-worth visiting. It has more than one entrance, and each has its own interest. A deer crossed the road as I drove out that way, but I couldn't get my camera out in time to get a good photo. Not much further west, where Fish Hatchery Lane meets Powers Rd, take a short left, then right again onto Homan Lane, if you want to go out to see Sunrise Iron, on Sunrise Rd off Homan Lane. It's a little bit of a drive on gravel road, but so interesting. Call ahead about touring. Beautiful views of field & farm & mountains.
Back in town, Enterprise OR Traveling west on North St, which becomes part of Hwy 82, is El Bajio Mexican Restaurant, Ace Hardware, Chevron, the Post Office, Elks Lodge, Wilderness Inn Motel (which has handicapped accommodations if you get there before they are gone), La Laguna Mexican Restaurant, Heavenlys burger place, a car wash, etc. North St makes a bend by Safeway before heading uphill out of town. Across from Safeway are a Chinese restaurant, TW Bronze (on Golf Course Rd), and about a block further on Golf Course Rd is Parks Bronze. Naturally, there's a golf course not too far up Golf Course Rd. Towns 'Tween Enterprise & La Grande OR--along Hwy 82 Lostine OR--10 mi northwest of Enterprise on Hwy 82; about 60 mi from La Grande Hwy 82 becomes State St in Lostine, a village with a few interesting landmarks, and south on Lostine River Road (dirt/gravel) are fairly minimalist campgrounds and trailheads. Names I saw on the map: Lostine Reservoir (Mountain View Rd off Lostine River Rd), Canyon Forest Camp, Lostine River Interpretive Trailhead and Williamson Campground (11 mi south of town), Walla Walla Forest Camp, Irondyke Forest Camp, Bowman-Francis Lake Trailhead, Turkey Flat Forest Camp and not far Arrow Forest Camp & nearby picnic area, Shady Campground & nearby Maxwell Lake Trailhead, and at last Two Pan Campground & Trailhead--for which you can search on the internet.
Wallowa OR--18 mi (about 20 min) northwest of Enterprise OR, on Hwy 82 Hwy 82 becomes 1st Street in Wallowa. Much construction caused some difficulty getting around Wallowa when I was there early Oct 2022, which will bring welcome improvements when they are finished. I was anxious to tour the Nez Perce Visitor Center, but it was "temporarily" closed even during posted hours--I suppose still relating to COVID cautions. Right where Hwy 82 becomes 1st St on the east end of town (at Ellen St), 1st St goes further east separate from the highway, and then as it crosses the Wallowa River it changes to Whiskey Creek Rd. At the west end of town Hwy 82 separates from 1st St at Douglas. Otherwise, the captioned photos below I think are self-explanatory.
The Canyon between Wallowa & Elgin, including Minam Wallowa to Minam is 13 mi through the canyon. Minam to Elgin is another 13 miles. The Minam River joins Wallowa River at Minam OR. Minam Store, which offers various recreational supplies and services, is closed on Mondays. See their website below. Just across the river is the Minam State Recreation Area, with its boat launch just off Hwy 82, and its campground 2 mi up the Wallowa River on a not-so-wide gravel canyon road. Elgin OR--20 mi northeast of La Grande OR, on Hwy 82 When Hwy 82 comes into Elgin from the east it converts to Albany St, then turns south, becoming S 8th Ave. Because I was just driving through, I didn't see Tom McDowel/Elgin Community Park (on both sides of Elgin Community Center & Pool, 260 N 10th St, Elgin, OR 97827). Imbler OR--13 mi northeast of La Grande OR, on Hwy 82 Hwy 82 turns south into Ruckman Ave in Imbler OR. It's a tiny community with the Grande Ronde River winding slowly nearby in largely farming Union County. La Grande Exxon, exit 261 off I-84--about 260 mi, 4 hours from Portland OR This is the exit for Hwy 82, so it was very convenient to get gas both going and coming home. The staff member who kindly pumped my gas was so friendly and thoughtful he washed my windshield without being asked. He even fetched a Subway sandwich made to order for me (I keep a note about which sandwich/ingredients I like). There's a Best Western, a Super 8, and a Sandman Inn nearby, beside McDonald's & Wendy's, and Local Harvest Eatery & Pub (pizza). Shopping is also close, at La Grande Town Center, 2212 Island Ave #3949, La Grande, OR 97850 . For more about La Grande OR, see Swiss Culture in the US and Switzerland Music at Alpenfest included yodeling and accordions, which reminded me of clips from "The Sound of Music" and Disney's "Snow White". Cowboys used to yodel, too. Ironically, the overture to Rossini's opera "William Tell" is the familiar "Lone Ranger" theme, so much a part of American culture. For a brief intro to the dancing, scroll down to Tirolean Dancers at: Yodeling clip from Disney’s “Snow White” Goat Herd song from “The Sound of Music” Yodeling cowboy, Gene Autry Yodeling article from Switzerland Tourism Accordion history from the Accordion Museum The Lone Ranger 1949-1957 Opening and Closing Theme William Tell Overture
Swiss/German Cuisine Books & Movies with Swiss subjects & authors Famous Swiss writers: philosopher Rousseau, Nobel prize poet Spitteler . . . Swiss stories: William Tell, Swiss Family Robinson, Heidi, Moni the Goat Boy . . . Children's books: Films about the Alps Some Swiss colonies in the US, and Swiss Americans
About Switzerland & Germany
Cantons of SwitzerlandStates of Germany, with map Getting to Mt Angel Oktoberfest Traveling south on I-205 from Portland OR, there's more than one choice for getting to Mt Angel. Google says it's about a 45 min drive at best, but one day it took me an hour, and Saturday it took me an hour and a half (when I thought there wouldn't be as much traffic!) If you prefer countryside driving vs the freeway, I suggest going south on Hwy 99E from Hwy 205. It skirts Oregon City and wends its way along the Willamette River awhile, traverses Canby & Barlow, Hubbard & Woodburn (all towns I'd like to explore more sometime), and then you turn southeast on Hwy 214, which will come into Mt Angel from the north. Turn east on Palmer St to get to handicapped parking: there's parking in that first block off Hwy 214, but better than that is the parking lot of St Mary Church--take Palmer to Oak St and go south to College St. The Church is to the east, and it has plenty of paved parking, free for disabled permits. If you don't have a disability permit, parking is at a premium. Friday it was bad enough, but on Sat every street was lined with cars. Ordinarily it's a town of less than 5000. Some places offer $7 parking, official parking areas are $10. There are shuttles to and from the official parking lots (which fill fast, of course), as well as the shuttle to the Abbey, but they did not appear wheelchair accessible to me. St Mary Catholic Church, 575 E College St, Mt Angel, OR 97362
Kindergarten, across the street from St Mary Catholic Church Bouncy house, carnival rides, pony rides, etc.--all for free. Military Vehicle Display, Sat 9am-3pm at the Legion Hall, 740 E College St, Mt. Angel, OR 97362 I saw some of these vehicles down the hill in the main festival area on Fri, but didn't have a chance to get any photos. On Sat I was anxious to get up to the Abbey before the museum closed, so had to pass (opportunity cost), and by the time I returned, they were done. Cruz 'n Car Show, 9am til whenever; St Mary's Public School--590 E College St, Mt Angel, OR 97362 Rollin' down College & Church St, Mt Angel Oktoberfest 2022 One might speculate whether whoever laid out the town had indulged a bit much in the spirited festivities . . . St Mary Catholic Church is on College St. But as you head downhill toward the center of town, College St leaps north a block at Oak St, and continuing west on what was College St you are suddenly on Church St. The Center of Mt Angel Oktoberfest was at Garfield & Charles streets. From College St I turned on Garfield and worked my way north a block, past the City Hall and the Souvenir booth. At Garfield & Charles was the information booth, and a shelf of free, informative booklets with a map, schedule of events each day, info about the events and venues (like what spirits are served at each, with prices), free family fun, etc. I recommend planning to spend 2 days at least, and if you haven't been before, you can peruse the booklet even further before the 2nd day. If you plan to imbibe, I suggest making a reservation to stay over well in advance. *Note: although most places accept credit cards, there a some that only take cash. ATMs are sprinkled around in cute little "houses", but it costed me $4.50 to use one, and I had to ask a kind person to help me because it was too high for me to reach some of the buttons. People were very nice to me at the festival. Charles Street Dancers, Performers at the Bandstand, Charles St & Cleveland I took SO many photos, because obvioiusly it's difficult to get a good shot while people are in motion--especially at night. I liked some of the shots, even though there were not crisp. Organizing, labeling, and choosing the best out of over 500 shots takes a lot of time and stamina itself! I so enjoyed the beauty of the colorful costumes and complexions--it's so great when we can celebrate each others' cultural heritage. Spectators were so kind to let me up front so I could see, as they stood because the seating was packed. Hoop Dance--Webertanz, Mt Angel Dance Troupe Moms & Daughters Dance--Webertanz, Mt Angel Dance Troupe Dads & Daughters dance--Webertanz, Mt Angel Dance Troupe Boys' Dance--Webertanz, Mt Angel Dance Troupe 9th Graders--Webertanz, Mt Angel Dance Troupe Young Adults Dances--Webertanz, Mt Angel Dance Troupe Maypole Dance--Webertanz, Mt Angel Dance Troupe Marion County Citizens Band Tirolean Dancers Dances from Denmark, Austria, Germany, N Germany, Bavaria . . . including one called Horseshoes, one called King's Cross, another based on the skills of miners. "The Schuhplattler is a traditional style of folk dance popular in the regions of Bavaria and Tyrol (southern Germany, Austria and the German speaking regions of northern Italy). In this dance, the performers stomp, clap and strike the soles of their shoes (Schuhe), thighs and knees with their hands held flat (platt). There are more than 150 basic Schuhplattlers, as well as marches and acrobatic feats that are often interspersed with the basic dance in performance. They may be seen today in Europe and in German immigrant communities around the world. While the Schuhplattler is still largely performed by adults, it has become increasingly popular with youngsters, who love its colorful costumes and its bouncing, leaping, kicking and choreographed horseplay." Arts & Crafts booths were on College St between Main & Cleveland, and Cleveland St between College & Charles St, and on the north end of Garfield from College to Palmer St. The map had them colored in green and labeled, but for a first timer, there was a lot of information on the map to assimilate. Food booths and Drinking venues were mostly along Garfield Street, but a few were sprinkled about--esp snacks. A few more things to explore in Mt Angel Sorry, I didn't get a photo of the lovely fountain . . . but, here's what I did manage. Mt Angel Abbey
The museum is very different than I expected . . . it's not simply full of religious icons, but has lots of natural and local history exhibits, as well as art and historical artifacts that have been donated. If you are squeamish about the fact that in nature some animals eat others, you may find some of the displays unsettling. Nothing gory, but predators attacking or chasing prey along with more placid scenes. As with most museums, it's difficult to get photos without annoying reflections--these are only to whet the appetite to see for yourself. Not far away . . .
Old Aurora Colony Historical Museum--15018 2nd St NE, Aurora OR Exhibits from local German & Swiss immigrants $6, Th-Sat 11am-4pm, tours available |
Wheelchair WomanI've been in a wheelchair for 30+ years. It poses some challenges for traveling. Maybe others can benefit from my experiences. Archives
March 2024
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