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Oregon

Signature City Portland

Program No. 18533RJ

Learn about the “City of Roses” from acclaimed speakers and discover local history and culture as you explore the Portland Art Museum, Lan Su Chinese Garden and more!

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Program

At a Glance

Duration

6 days

Program Begins

Portland, OR

Program Concludes

Portland, OR

Group Type

Small Group

Meals

12 ( 5B, 4L, 3D )

Activity Level

Lauded as one of America’s best big cities, Portland’s small town charm welcomes you with open arms, enveloping you in its beautiful setting between the sparkling waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Explore this “City of Roses,” with experts unveiling its early history, its political savvy and its boundless beauty. Walk its historic streets to examine architecture and bridges and stop to savor locally inspired food and drink.

Best of all, you'll...

Experience Portland’s iconic landmarks from its famous bridges, on foot through its Arts District and from the water by boat.
Explore exceptional gardens, including the International Rose Test Garden, the Portland Japanese Garden and the Suzhou-style Lan Su Chinese Gardens.
Learn historic stories of Native experiences from a local storyteller and history keeper of Kalapuya/Coos heritage.

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Nathan Hoover

Nathan Hoover moved to Portland in 2003; in 2006, he began leading walking trips there as a street-theater project that was awarded grant funding by the Regional Arts and Culture Council. In 2010 Nathan began his current specialty, teaching groups of all ages about Portland's bridges. As a travel professional, Nathan brings his excitement about Portland and almost 20 years of experience to planning and leading unique visits for each of his groups.

Please Note:

This expert may not be available for every date of the program

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Esther Stutzman

Esther is a native Oregonian and traditional American Indian storyteller of Kalapuya and Coos heritage, as well as an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz. She has been sharing stories that she learned from her grandmothers for over 50 years. Esther works with Title VII Indian Education programs as a cultural resource specialist, has been a long-time presenter for the Oregon Chautauqua History Serie, and frequently lectures at colleges in the Pacific Northwest. In 2017, she received the Oregon Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Eric Wheeler

Eric Wheeler has over twenty years of experience as an architectural historian. He has written numerous National Register nominations, taught graduate level classes in architectural history and consulted with architects and realtors. Eric discovered the Pacific Northwest several years ago and continues to explore and interpret the captivating built environment of Portland and environs. Currently Eric designs and leads outings for his architectural walking Meetup group: Positively Portland Walking Tours. Eric has been leading walking excursions for Road Scholar since 2017.

Rex Burkholder

Rex is a trained biologist and holds an MA in urban and environmental policy. He is the founder of the Bicycle Transportation Alliance, which launched Portland’s bicycle revolution. During his 12 years in government, Rex oversaw Portland’s original Climate Action and Equity plans and sustainable transportation policy. His greatest achievement was leading a statewide effort to fund universal outdoor school – weeklong science and nature camp – for every student in Oregon. His book, "The Activist's Toolkit," provides a practical approach to being an effective change agent.

Holly Foster

Holly Foster has an M.A. in music education with undergraduate degrees in music conducting and French. She got hooked on travel during her teaching career, leading high school choir groups to various West Coast events and French students around France. An Ashland resident for over 30 years, Holly is connected to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival through her actor partner, and delights in attending all the plays. She also works with a local educational travel program. Holly enjoys hiking, skiing, singing, gardening, reading, travel, and adventure.

Bob Vinatieri

Bob Vinatieri was introduced to travel at age two, riding in a TWA Super Constellation cockpit from Kansas City to Amarillo. Travel has been his vocation for over 40 years, and he has visited all 50 states, six continents, and over 50 countries. Bob enjoys leisurely walks along both mountain trails and urban cityscapes. Highlights on his programs include discussions of geology, climate transitions, and human histories. You can always find him with a camera, photographing wildflowers and the epic landscapes of the Pacific Wonderland.

Activity Level

Keep the Pace

Walking up to 2-3 miles on uneven surfaces with most days averaging 2 miles, climbing a few flights of stairs, and use of public transportation most days.

Small Group (13 to 24)

Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Suggested Reading List

View Full List (15 Books)

You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

HAVE QUESTIONS?

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?

We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!

Call 800-454-5768

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Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.

Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.
Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.
Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.
Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.