IAVM’s 99th VenueConnect Annual Conference and Trade Show is in Portland, Oregon this year – a vibrant city full of good food, coffee, and iconic sights.
As part of VC24, attendees can register to attend the Willamette Valley Vineyard tour or join us for venue tours throughout the city.
If you find you have time outside of the conference to explore our host city, we’ve found great options nearby. Read on to discover what you can look forward to near the Oregon Convention Center (OCC).
Getting Around
There’s plenty to do within walking distance of the OCC. However, Portland does have the following public transportation options:
- Metropolitan Area Express (MAX) Light Rail
IAVM is providing all VC24 attendees with [#] passes for the MAX Light Rail to help with your travel while in town. - Portland Streetcar
- Biketown Bike-Share
Food and Coffee
According to WalletHub, Portland is both the second-best foodie city AND coffee city in the US.
With hundreds of coffee shops to choose from, there are tons of great options to enjoy your favorite cup of joe. In fact, travelportland.com has a plan mapped out for a Portland Coffee Crawl to maximize your caffeine intake experience!
Visitors also have their pick of restaurants, farmer’s markets, and food carts. (Note: This helpful map shows restaurants near the OCC.) Below is just a small sample of their offerings.
- Award-Winning Dining
OX Restaurant (5-min ride) boasts a James Beard award-winning chef. - Food Cart Pod
Lil’ America (at Fracture Brewing) (4-min ride) is your stop for the Portland food cart experience. - Farmer’s Market
Take the MAX Light Rail to the Skidmore Fountain station to visit the Portland Saturday Market.
Bookstores
One of the top 10 literary cities in the world, Portland has an impressive amount of bookstores to peruse.
- Powell’s City of Books
With over a million books housed in an entire city block, it is the largest independent bookstore in the world. - Third Eye Books Accessories & Gifts
- Rose City Book Pub
- Floating World Comics
Attractions
- Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
Planetarium, science playground, movies, and exhibits - Lan Su Chinese Garden
An authentic Ming Dynasty-style Garden in Portland’s Chinatown district - Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park
River views, family fun, and hiking opportunities - Portland Aerial Tram
Views of Portland from 500 feet above the city - Washington Park
Oregon Zoo, International Rose Test Garden, museums, and more
No matter your interest, Portland is sure to have something for you. We look forward to seeing you there at VenueConnect24!
Not yet registered? Visit venueconnect.iavm.org to learn more and sign up!
