Central Point's Latest Community News

Located in southeast Portland, Loyly is the local destination for those needing a steam, sauna, or massage. Unlike many chain spas, Loyly exudes its “Portlandness.” It allows both residents and visitors to immerse themselves in an atmosphere that is relaxing and rejuvenating.

Loyly is focused on “blending the accessibility and warmth of a traditional sauna with the qualities of a modern day spa.” Loyly is the Finnish word for the steam and heat associated with the sauna. 

Whether it is the end of a long day at work or just looking for further relaxation on your vacation, Loyly is very accessible with after-work hours. At the end of your visit, you feel like the stress of everyday life has been released. When first stepping into the surroundings, you will notice the unfussy, modern design of Loyly.

In many Scandanvian nations, saunas are part of the cultural fabric. This is also what Loyly offers its c

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In Portland, everything is local. For a city and region which prides itself on local food, produce, and wine, the Portland Nursery is a one-stop shop for everything you may need for your garden. Whether it is a large community/neighborhood garden or a small herb garden for your condo or apartment, their supplies and know-how are top notch.

The Portland Nursery is situated conveniently in East Portland on Stark Street, which makes it a straight shot from downtown. With ample parking, you will be able to find everything you are looking for. Expect weekends to be very busy, especially during the spring months. Weekdays are less busy and a better time to want to leisurely browse.

Do not be shy about talking with the staff. They are very knowledgeable and can answer almost every question.  If you are looking for a certain herb or garden vegetable, they will find the perfect one for your garden. They are also helpful when it comes to finding the right plants for your

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Books are a integral part of everyone’s life. Powell’s definitely epitomizes this feeling with the largest selection in town. With multiple local locations, including a great space at the Portland Airport, Powell’s is convenient while still remaining local. Combining their exceptional selection with reasonable prices, a fun adventure is assured at this Portland landmark.

Finding the right book should be a journey at a place like Powell’s. Chances are you will find not just one book, but a whole stack of new reading material.

Their flagship store is located downtown on the edge of the Pearl District. With multiple levels, you can find yourself lost quickly. A good idea is to bring a list of what you might want to buy. If it is a spur of the moment trip, you can also find computers throughout the store to find exactly what you need. Their friendly staff are also helpful, whether you are looking for the latest modern novel or a home improvement b

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Hawthorne Vintage sets itself apart from most of the city’s other vintages shops. While it specializes in items from the 1940s-1980s, it is decidedly focused on home furnishings, lighting, and furniture. Whether you are looking to outfit your first apartment or just spruce up a room in your house, Hawthorne Vintage is a great place to pursue for a relic of decades ago.

The shop is located on the eastern edge of the Hawthorne district. Located a bit outside of the hustle and bustle of Hawthorne, it is well worth the journey. According to their website, they “specialize in mid-century modern furnishings, housewares lighting and audio.” Inside Hawthorne Vintage, it is surprisingly airy, without the musty feeling of many shops. The staff people are helpful and can answer many questions if you are hunting for a hard to find item.

One of the more popular items is their lighting fixtures. Whether it is lamps, lights, or even old shades, you can add a touch

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Village Merchants can be a wonderful excursion if you are looking for furniture, knick-knacks, or just want to hunt around for a bargain. With great prices and a convenient location, Village Merchants is the spot for a fun and creative thrift shopping experience.

While many vintage shops offer antiques and older artifacts at high prices, Village Merchants specializes in low priced finds. Inside it feels like a mix between a stylish thrift store and a small town flea market. Flea markets, however, require a lot of searching for quality items, and Village Merchants gives the impression that there is a hidden gem around every corner.

If you are furnishing a new house or apartment and do not want to spend a lot of money, Village Merchants can make it happen. It has everything you can think and is still affordable.

Located on Division Street in the Richmond neighborhood, Village Merchants is hard to miss. One of the nice aspects about the business is that a lot of

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Noun is a beautifully understated shop in southeast Portland.  Sharing its space with the delicious Saint Cupcake, it is also a sweet stop if you need a gift to amaze. With an innovative blend of antiques, local art and curiosities of all shapes and sizes, you can find that perfect something for that special somebody.

Noun, located in the Belmont neighborhood, is a great destination for both locals and Portland visitors. The shop’s motto is “a person’s place for things.” With many “things” to choose from, you can spend a long time pouring over the items and enjoy every minute of your visit.

The shop has a host of amazing gifts and antiques which are perfect for birthday presents or to bring back to friends and family members after a vacation. They also have a large selection of locally-produced greeting cards if you are looking for something more than just another Hallmark card.

With both practical and whimsical gifts,

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Jackpot Records proves that a music store is not an antiquated way of purchasing the latest hit single. With its sheer quantity of music, ranging from obscure limited-edition vinyl records to the most popular group of the moment, you will find what you are looking for and more.

Their original location is on Hawthorne Street in southeast Portland, with a second location in downtown Portland that opened in 2001. Unlike many record stores who are focused purely on making sales, Jackpot Records has a mission of “getting music into the hands and ears of the people who love it.” They specialize in both new and used CD, vinyl records and assorted magazines.

Both locations are spacious and have their walls adorned with prized records and posters. The staff is very knowledgeable and can help you with almost any music query. If they do not have item in stock, they can also special order your favorite record as well.

Whether you are looking for that first re

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Pastaworks is the local destination for slow food. Find the right food, wine, and supplies for a romantic meal or a large family meal. This specialty store is focused on Italian goods and boasts a large wine and cheese selection. You will find what you are looking for and much more. With a few locations spread about Portland, it seems there is always a Pastaworks close by.

Opened in 1983, Pastaworks does its best to offer the top quality meats, cheeses, wine, and other goods that you will not find at your regular chain grocery. Their business strives to stock the “best available products from the Mediterranean world (and sometimes beyond) based on the premise that eating and drinking should be pleasure as well as necessity.” They also strive to be part of the slow food movement, which focuses on using local and small farm produced products.

The Hawthorne location is located in the middle of this busy district, next door to Powell’s Books and the Bag

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The newest business on a busy block, Alder & Co. is quickly establishing itself as a wonderful location for gifts and shopping in downtown Portland. Located in the heart of downtown Portland's West End, it is a convenient and lovely place to find something special.

Alder & Co. joins nearby Canoe, The English Department, and Gruner to form a block with truly inspired local businesses. The shop is named for the street it sits by and creates its own niche by offering “thoughtfully selected items that are suitable for everyday use as well as the grand occasion.”

The shop carries a variety of items for your wardrobe, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, and kids, as well as items that are beautiful and practical. Upon walking into the store, you will notice a clean and modern aesthetic. The lighting is a nice touch too, adding a warm and rustic glow.

Alder & Co. is a wonderful place to stop in and explore. From Japanese linens and papers to

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At Movie Madness, you not only get a choice of great movies, but can also take a look at vintage artifacts from decades of the silver screen. The store has a homey feel with a large local following. Movie Madness shows why when other chain stores are going out of business, it continues to be busy.

Located off of Belmont St. in southeast Portland, Movie Madness is a must-stop for Portland residents. Their large selection offers an array of choices. From the latest blockbusters to obscure foreign language films, chances are they have what you are looking for.

Movie Madness can be quite busy on weekends and weekday nights with the checkout line snaking down the aisle. However, this large store never makes you feel cramped. If you want to avoid the long check-out line, try to come during off-peak hours.

First opened in 1991, Movie Madness now boasts over 70,000 titles and you can get lost trying to find the perfect choice. Be aware that their movie filing system

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Canoe is a delightfully designed shop in downtown Portland. When shopping for gifts during the holidays or just for a birthday, you will feel as though you can almost check everyone off your list. In one visit, you will find yourself pleased with their selection of fun and functional gifts.

Located off Alder Street in downtown Portland, the shop’s interior is spacious and modern, using wooden tables to create a clean and modern design. The shop’s owners are very friendly and always helpful when it comes to finding that right gift. If you have a question or just want to know the back-story on the item, they will tell you all about it. Canoe follows the idea that “modern is an approach, not a style. We seek out products with a lasting aesthetic that transcends short-lived trends.”

Canoe is a must stop for anyone who loves the art of design, especially modern design. With a recent expansion next door, Canoe has its items arranged in a way that ca

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Portland is a patchwork of different neighborhoods. Many can be so small, a visitor could easily wear out the question “Exactly what neighborhood am I in?” If a perfect day consists of grabbing award-winning Thai food, savoring a French pastry, and maybe tracking down a vintage pea coat, the Richmond neighborhood is where you should be.

While not as regal as nearby Laurelhurst or as eclectic and happening as Hawthorne, Richmond is the quintessential Portland neighborhood. It sums up what Portland is, was and will be.

PortlandNeighborhoods.com accurately describes Richmond. “Whereas, other Portland neighborhoods might consistently and self-consciously aim the spotlight their own way - cue Alberta - Richmond is kickin' it covert ops style.”

Part of what makes the Richmond neighborhood overlooked also is what makes it a great place for visitors. While it is a wonderful necessity to t

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Portland’s Pearl District symbolizes the revitalization from a sleepy Pacific Northwest city to an international center for shopping, art, and culture. The neighborhood was once known as a hub for warehouses, industry, and shipping. Many of the original train tracks still run through the area. However, in the past 15 years, the Pearl District has been transformed with upscale eateries, modern condos, and contemporary art galleries.

Located just north of downtown, it makes a perfect destination if this is your first visit to Portland. It is within walking distance of both downtown and the Portland’s Union Station. Whether you are looking for food, culture, or shopping, the Pearl District has a bit of everything.

A must-stop for any Portlander or visitor is Powell’s Books. The enormous building serves a welcome mat for the Pearl District. Located on the southern fringe of the neighborhood, Powell’s is the destination for almost any reader. Wheth

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Out of all Portland neighborhoods, Hawthorne thoroughly exhibits the vibrant culture Portland has become known for in recent years. With shopping, movie theaters, food, and much more it is a haven for visitors and Portland residents looking for a fun time.

All cities have their counter culture corner. San Francisco’s Haight Street and Seattle’s Broadway both come to mind. Hawthorne is Portland’s alternative district du jour, except lacking the over commercialization as has happened in cities. In Hawthorne, you will still find plenty of local businesses in order  to taste what life in Portland is like if this is your first visit.

Hawthorne is ground zero for vintage and antique shoppers. Up and down Hawthorne, many shops offer great deals on clothes, records, and antique furniture. Hawthorne Vintage has a stunning inventory of furniture and household items. While some can be pricey, you are sure to find a good deal. It is a great choice for thos

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The Belmont Neighborhood in Southeast Portland is a model of what neighborhoods can do to improve their image and keep visitors coming in. Belmont has moved far past its more seedy days of 15 years ago. Since that time, popular local businesses have come in and helped to spark a revival.

Up and down Belmont Street, there are plenty of choices for eating, drinking, and enjoying your day. Running between 30th and 39th Avenue, you can find a great bite to eat at many of the innovative eateries. Pine State Biscuits is an extremely popular breakfast spot. On weekends, expect to see the line snaking around the corner. There are also choices between Middle Eastern Cuisine at Hoda’s and a perfect Thai paradise at Kuhn Pic’s Bahn Thai.

The surrounding residential neighborhood is both eclectic and charming. Many of the modest craftsman homes have been remodeled and designed with colorful paints and yard art. When visiting the neighborhood, a quick stroll through on

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The Clinton neighborhood has an unassuming look, but is clearly one of the most innovative parts of Portland. Sandwiched between Division and Powell Streets in southeast Portland, it has quietly became home to many of the city’s most up-and-coming shops and restaurants.

The Clinton neighborhood has a small and local feel to it. The neighborhood's residents have a range of ages, but on the weekends is filled with hip youngsters on bicycles and young families pushing strollers.

For breakfast, try Broder. While many people opt  for a greasy spoon diner, Broder offers Scandinavian cuisine which perfectly blends healthy and great tasting food. On the weekends, the restaurant can be quite busy, but is usually more manageable for lunch or breakfast during the weekdays. Their specialities are boards, which feature an assortment of eggs, cheese, bread, fruit and fish.

The main feature of Clinton is the Clinton Street Theater. Portland is filled with many lo

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Even if you have never been to the Rose City, chances are the names Flanders, Lovejoy, and Quimby ring a bell. These names made famous by the long-running Simpsons television show are just one of the ways the Alphabet District is such an endearing part of Portland. Combined with delicious restaurants and a plethora of shopping, the district is a perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon.

Located northwest of downtown, it has a different look from the shiny downtown corridor and the “organic” feel of Southeast Portland. This neighborhood has a modern vibe with new shops and condos populating the area.

The Alphabet District is known by many names, including simply Northwest 23rd, for the busy 23rd Avenue, as well as Nob Hill.  It received its name since the district's streets run alphabetically from south to north. The creator of the Simpsons television program, Matt Groening, grew up in Portland and used many of this neighborhood's street names as last

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The Buckman neighborhood is a great jumping-off point for a day of fun exploring Portland. With its countless cafes, restaurants, and coffee shops, you can explore this up-and-coming neighborhood which seems to be right near everything there is do in Portland.

To truly understand Portland is to understand its patchwork of neighborhoods. Each one offers a slice of life which informs you of the city as a whole. It gives you a perspective on why a certain part of town is known for what it is. The Buckman neighborhood has a lot to offer from its beautiful Victorian home, large parks and out-of-this-world eateries.

While some neighborhoods are tucked away far from a visitor’s grasp, the Buckman neighborhood is easily accessible for both city residents and Portland visitors. By hopping across the Morrison Bridge, you will be in the heart of the neighborhood in less than 20 blocks. It also right near the Belmont and Hawthorne districts, which offer more shopping,

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Irvington neighborhood offers visitors a stroll through tree-lined drives and majestic homes. Most were built at the turn-of-the-century, giving a peak into Portland’s transition from a small lumber town to an international city. The stately homes are surrounded by beautiful parks, bountiful shopping and great eateries.

The neighborhood is bordered by Irving Park on its north edge with Broadway demarking its southern border. Irving Park is a relaxing park with many activities for kids or adults. It makes a great stopping point after strolling through the neighborhood and even has a playground to keep children entertained. 

There is plenty of eating options in the neighborhood. During hot summer days, try Mio Gelato on 15th Ave. With both outdoor seating and nearby local parks, you can take your gelato as you walk through the neighborhood. Foster & Dobb’s also has everything you need for an impromptu picnic including wine, cheese, chocolate, and b

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No trip to downtown Portland is complete without walking around the Cultural District. Close to all major downtown hotels, you can see many sites within a short radius. Everything that Portland has to offer in terms of museums, galleries, and public art is right at your fingertips. Even if you do not have time to make it into any of the museums, a walking tour can be a great for photos and viewing outdoor sculptures.

The Cultural District in Portland spans the area west of City Hall with the South Park Blocks making a nice middle point. Included in the Cultural District is the Arlene Schneizter Concert Hall, the Portland Center for the Performing Arts, Portland Art Museum, the Oregon Historical Society and other notable buildings.

Museum Family Days are a great way for parents to introduce their kids to the all of the wonderful museums in the Cultural District. With discounted prices to many of the museums, you can see a lot for a little money and be delighted as you

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When first visiting the Alberta Arts District, you will be struck with the cohesion among the variety of art galleries, restaurants, and local businesses. With so much to see and do along this busy, narrow street, the Alberta Arts District can be a great place to explore on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.

Located along Alberta Street in northeast Portland, the Alberta Arts District exemplifies what has made Portland so well known: local businesses which rely on sustainable business practices to create quality goods. The neighborhood gets its name from its dedication to local art. PortlandNeighborhoods.com explains that nearly every business “functions as a gallery with a rotating roster of artists represented on their walls, one begins to understand the full nature of this community’s devotion to art.”

The best way to experience the neighborhood is during its monthly street fair. On the third Thursday of each month, Alberta Street comes alive with v

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The Mississippi neighborhood is one of the most electric neighborhoods in Portland. Quite nearly exploding with local businesses, it has gone from small-time neighborhood to local shopping spot de jure in only a few years. A bustling atmosphere filled with shops, food carts, restaurants, bars, and live music, Mississippi is a must see for visitors and city residents.

Located in north Portland, it is easily accessible from downtown Portland. For visitors, you can either take the TriMet route #4 bus or the MAX Yellow Line train. The neighborhood, also known as Boise-Eliot, has been revitalized in recent years, but still retains its historic charm. The Mississippi Business Association describes the neighborhood as “one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Oregon. Recent revitalization efforts have preserved its distinct history and character while inviting and blending in new energy and ideas.”

For music lovers, the neighborhood has a host of great attractio

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Old Town Chinatown is a must-visit when staying in Portland. Its convenient location makes it a perfect stop whether you are heading to the Pearl District, downtown or just catching a train from Union Station. Portland’s Chinese residents have a history which is an important and integral part of what makes Portland the great city it is today.

Chinatown is located directly east of the Pearl District. Enter in on Fourth Avenue and Burnside so you can see the immaculate gate serving as a grand entrance. Chinatown is also easily accessible by the city’s MAX rail lines with stops both on the Blue and Red lines. Located inside the free-rail zone, you can visit the district and continue on to downtown Portland or Lloyd Center on the east bank of the Willamette River.

Once entering into Chinatown, you will immediately see the care the city took paying respect to the neighborhood’s Chinese heritage. The street signs and lampposts are painted red with each st

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The Portland Actors Conservatory is a place for education and study as well as a theatre to experience emerging stars in the city's acting community. With an intense education program, the actors become well versed in their craft. Their performances will both amaze and inspire you while remaining very affordable.

Primarily known as a place for the serious study of acting, it is also a great place to learn more about Portland’s vibrant arts and theatre scene. Each year, not only does the conservatory train people in acting, but it also gives back to the Portland community with a series of performances.

This year’s final performance is Big Love, which runs June 9 through June 27. The play  “reflects a cutup sensibility, collaging pieces of text drawn from shampoo ads next to ancient Greek texts,” says Philip Cuomo, associate artistic director of PAC and director of the show. “I’m looking to knock something loose

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