If you yearn for gold, velvet and precious stones, you must visit the Armoury. The treasures that have been collected over the centuries by the Russian tsars and princes can be found here. Some magnificent examples are the Fabergé egg and Catherine the Great’s coronation dress.

Portland is home to the nation's largest wooded urban park—Forest Park. A short hike in, and you'll find it hard to believe that civilization is just steps away. With 70 miles of trails winding through the forest and offering views of the Willamette River, you'll often have nature all to yourself. However, you're also likely to run into locals jogging or walking their dogs—expect to be greeted with a friendly "hello." If you have the time, hike up to Pittock Mansion, a stunning French Renaissance-style château that once belonged to Henry Pittock, a prominent publisher and businessman. Today, the mansion serves as a historic house museum open to visitors, offering panoramic views of the city. Another popular destination within Forest Park is the so-called "Witch's Castle"—the moss-covered ruins of an abandoned stone house. Despite its eerie name, there’s no record of witchcraft here. However, legend has it that its original inhabitant was the first person in Oregon to be sentenced to execution for murder in 1859.

Lan Su Chinese Garden, a tranquil oasis in downtown Portland, was built as a gift from Portland’s sister city, Suzhou, China. The garden features decorative rocks imported from China by the workers who helped construct it. Visitors can enjoy guided tours (included in the admission price), explore rare plants native to China, and relax in a traditional tea house. The garden also hosts a rotating array of cultural events and activities.