Mini Itini No. 7: What to do when family comes into town for graduation
But really this is just a fun day for anyone.
Hi! Mini-Itinis answer the question: “Where should I take out-of-towners?” Each Mini Itini includes three activities that pair well together plus a few alternatives so you can customize depending on your mood and timing.
I don’t know anyone visiting for a high school or college graduation. But if I did, this is what I’d tell them to do. For no other reason other than that it’s a fun day.
The itinerary doesn’t contain fancy restaurant recommendations. It’s not even particularly celebratory. But that’s what I like about it — it takes the pressure off an already big weekend and just lets everyone enjoy time outside.
Again, no need to wear a cap and gown to enjoy this activity lineup.
Have fun!
Riley
Stop #1: Keeper Coffee
In a sentence: a neighborhood coffee shop with a celebrity barista
Order: cappuccino, hot chocolate, the pop tart, lemon drizzle cake
Address: 4515 SE 41st Ave
You might not know about the World Barista Championships, but you should absolutely watch Morgan Eckroth’s winning performance from 2022. I initially learned about Keeper through her (she used to work there a few days a week). And now I just go for the cappuccinos and housemade pop tarts.
Keeper is cute. It has rickety floors, bistro chairs, trendy merch, and a very appealing pastry window. They serve Coava Coffee. Lines commonly reach the door. It’s so popular they opened a second Milwaukie location next to the new Pfriem.
Keeper is the perfect starting point for a walk through Eastmoreland or Woodstock. And that’s what I recommend you do!
Alternate Breakfast Spots:
Pipsqueak Bagels: this pop-up/farmer’s market stand just opened their first brick and mortar on SE Holgate. Lines were initially around the block, but now they’re much more manageable.
Grand Central Bakery: say what you will about this chain, but it’s cozy, has something for everyone, and is incredibly affordable. Can’t go wrong with a Jammer scone.
Stop #2: Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
In a sentence: Rhododendrons are currently in peak bloom. Catch ‘em while you can.
Admission: $9 for adults and $6 for kids (free under 5yrs)
Address: 5801 SE 28th Ave
This tiny garden doesn’t get nearly enough attention. It’s cheaper than the Japanese and Chinese Gardens and offers a lot of green space for picnicking and chilling. It’s co-owned by the city and the American Rhododendron Society Portland Chapter, and is home to rare species of rhododendrons, azaleas, and other flowering plants. It’s open year-round, but April through June is when everything pops off.
The garden isn’t huge, so I’d pair this with a walk through Eastmoreland on your way to lunch where you can ogle at the million-dollar homes and stroll down Reed College Place.
Alternate Stops:
Silly Daisy: My friend Carolyn turned me on to this store, and, dare I say it, she’s a tastemaker. Silly Daisy is located just off SE 13th and Milwaukie. It’s in the epicenter of Sellwood vintage shopping. So this would be a great stop on a window shopping tour.
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge: A lovely 3-mile loop near Sellwood. I wrote about it here.
Stop #3: Bark City BBQ
In a sentence: A solid BBQ spot in a big food cart pod that has something for everyone.
Order: the Buzzy Joe, sausage, potato salad, coleslaw, and white bread.
Address: 4727 SE Woodstock Blvd
The Heist is Woodstock’s hottest club. It has 15+ food carts. A bar. A fire pit. A giant fish tank.
It’s also home to Bark City BBQ, a tiny cart that has gained a loyal following among barbecue fans. And, for some reason, Texas Monthly’s editor. Owned by a Podnah’s Pit alum, the cart went on a five-year hiatus before returning to the Heist last year. If barbecue isn’t your thing, I also like the Laos Cambodian fusion food at Golden Triangle.
Alternate Restaurants:
Sebastiano’s: the Herby White Bean and Veggie sandwich is probably my favorite in town. But you can’t go wrong with any here. The cafe is about a 5-10 minute drive from the garden. I wouldn’t walk unless you really want to get your steps in.
Ruse Brewing: I’m not sure I would have heard about Ruse if I hadn’t worked in the same building as their original brewery. It’s in an old, but still operating, warehouse near the train tracks. Their beer is 10/10. And, if it helps sell the place, it’s one of the few spots Grasslands BBQ sets up shop when they come to town from Hood River.
The Route
