Trip to Portland Day One

It started with arriving at the train station at 1:45am on Saturday May 5th. Our train left at 2:45am. I chose not to nap beforehand, so once on the train I was out like a light. I must have woke up about 7am or so. It was bright, clear, sun was shining and we are traveling along the Columbia River. Gorgeous foothills, riverviews, orchards and vineyards as well as some amazing views of Mt Hood. We moved to the viewing car and looked at the incredible views from there. The top of the viewing car had glass ceilings, so it was amazing. The train comfortable and not too expensive. We arrived in Portland about an hour ahead of schedule. We walked to the Chinese Gardens and walked through them. They were amazing. I wanted to get some tea in the teahouse, so Tim and I went in while Marty waited outside in the gardens. I had ginger peach and Tim had a stronger tea with a bittersweet chocolate taste. Tim said that tea to him tastes like beer to me. It all tastes like tea...no difference at all in flavors. I feel that way about beer! Once we were done, we left the Chinese Gardens and headed towards the Skidmore Fountain. There was a market going on with foods from all over, arts and crafts, jewelry, pottery, etc. It was something. Then we headed towards the river and walked along the main road there, and happened upon the Million Marijuana March. This was probably more like 200 to 300 people tops. Complete with a police escort. We headed towards the Pioneer Courthouse Square and encountered fountains and parks along the way. Once at Pioneer Square we headed towards the library, of course! Then, we headed to Powell's City of Books were we separated for about an hour and a half while we explored the city block wide bookstore. Then, Marty took the bus and Tim and I took the streetcar to our hotel. We arrived about 5:30pm or so, checked in and then showered and headed to Blue Moon Tavern for dinner. Food was great! Back to the hotel, we watched some TV and was asleep by 9:30pm.