Portland R&R: Our Favorite Places to Relax and Recharge in Portland
Whether you’re a Portland resident or if you’re just visiting, you might be looking for some new ways to have a relaxing, healthy day out with the girls (or alone) that doesn’t leave you hungover and bloated the next day. One of my favorite things about Portland is that there’s something for everyone!No matter what you’re into, what you like to eat, or what you like to do, you’ll find something just for you.If you’re looking to relax in Portland, we at The Portland Girl have some favorites!
Our favorite places to relax and recharge in Portland:
Knot Springs
Knot Springs is one of my favorite spots in all of Portland! There’s very little I enjoy more than soaking in one of their hot pools and looking out over the city. I LOVE the signature scent when you arrive and the plush Pendleton towels. So luxurious.
You’ll love the hot springs, cold springs, massages, and saunas. As an added plus, sweating out toxins and alternating between hot and cold springs is awesome for your skin. So not only are you getting some serious relaxation in, you’ll be doing your skin a favor too!You’ll leave feeling like a whole new woman.
Bonus tip: When you finish up at Knot Springs, stop off at Cosube surf shop to browse local goods and treat yourself to some one-of-a-kind surfing gear.
Townshend's Tea
This cute place on Alberta Street still has an "old Portland" vibe. Curl up with a delicious chai latte on one of their cozy couches or chairs to rest your feet while shopping in the Alberta Arts District.
It’s a great place to pass the time and watch the rain. Bring along a book or magazine or use this time to just think and clear your head. Honestly, I can’t think of anything more relaxing than hot tea! (Except maybe a steam facial :) )
Headwaters Russian high tea service at The Heathman Hotel
This tea service is legit! You’ll love the cozy ambiance, delicious treats, and more delicious tea than you could ever drink.They locally source a lot of their ingredients and use traditional Russian recipes passed down through the owner’s family. If you’re in the mood for a real grown-up tea party, give this a try! Visit them here.
Common Ground Wellness
If you loved Knot Springs and are looking for something even more adventurous, check out Common Ground Wellness for soaking and saunas. One caveat: Clothing is 100% optional.Don’t worry, they have all-female or all-male times if being naked around strangers of the opposite sex bothers you. It’s definitely an experience and surprisingly relaxing once you get over the initial newness. (You can also wear a bathing suit if stripping down just isn’t your thing.)
Hikes in Forest Park
This is one of my favorites spots to hike and connect with nature. The hustle and bustle of the city is great, but sometimes you just need a change of scenery, you know? Pack a snack, a water bottle, and some good shoes and hit the trail! (Don’t forget your sunglasses, hat, and all-natural sunscreen!) You can always go for a short hike, but once you get past the one mile mark, you’ll see fewer and fewer people and hear less and less city noise. The farther you go, the easier it is to forget that you’re so close to a busy city! Visit the park website here.
Visit Nail Studio
This natural salon specializes in all-natural nail care. What!
Enjoy a foot soak in a copper tub and get a gorgeous mani-pedi. If you really want to chill out, splurge on their Martini Manicure or Pedicure to enjoy a cocktail while you get your nails done. That’s my kind of manicure! (Just make sure to drink lots of water so you don’t dehydrate your beautiful skin!)
Enso Float
Have you ever tried a sensory deprivation tank? It might sound a little intimidating at first, but it’s actually wonderful! At Enso, you get your own “float suite” for a full 90 minutes. You can leave the lights on or turn them off, and you just float in a water/Epsom salt mixture that feels like you’re floating in nothing. It’s one of the most relaxing things I’ve ever done. It’s quiet and perfect for shutting down a lot of the mental and physical noise we deal with on a daily basis. Give it a shot! Visit them here.
The Portland Girl
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning The Portland Girl! Come unwind with one of our facials. Whether you’re looking to deeply hydrate, look younger, or clear blemishes, we’ve got a facial for you. Come visit our beautiful location to give yourself some pampering! As an added bonus, each facial comes with complementary aromatherapy to really help you relax. Book your appointment here! Portland is a great place to relax. Come enjoy the city and get some R and R at the same time!
