Amazing Local Artisans abound at Portland Saturday Market

If you’re visiting Portland, you absolutely have to check out the iconic Portland Saturday Market. It’s the largest continuously operating open-air arts and crafts market in the country, and it’s packed with incredible local artisans and makers. 

Spend a day browsing the colorful stalls, meeting the artists, and taking home a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Here’s what to expect at this quintessential Portland attraction.

A Portland Tradition Since 1974

The Portland Saturday Market has been a staple of the city’s vibrant arts scene for nearly fifty years. Every Saturday and Sunday from March through December 24th, the historic Old Town/Chinatown neighborhood transforms into a bustling marketplace filled with artisan goods, live music, and delicious food. With over 250 vendors spread across the Bill Naito Legacy Fountain, Ankeny Plaza, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park, there’s always something new and exciting to explore.

Hours, Location, and Transportation

The Portland Saturday Market is open Saturdays and Sundays from March through December. 

Saturday Hours: 10am-5pm
Sunday Hours: 11am-4:30pm
Address: 2 SW Naito Parkway Portland, OR 97204
Transportation: Take bus 44 or 4 from the Portland Eco House, then walk for about 7 minutes. By bike it’s a pleasant 20 to 25 minute straight run to the Steel Bridge that crosses over the Willamette River downtown and then south a little ways along the westside riverfront. By car it will take around 15 minutes.

Unique Handcrafted Goods

At the heart of the Saturday Market are the talented artisans offering an incredible array of handmade local artisan items. You’ll find:

• Art and Prints: Discover original paintings, sculptures, photography, and prints from local artists.
• Jewelry: Handcrafted pieces made with everything from sterling silver and gemstones to recycled materials.
• Artisan Foods: Small-batch jams, sauces, chocolates, and more.
• Fashion: Sustainable clothing, hats, and accessories from independent designers.
• Bath and Body: Natural bath and body products including soaps, lotions, and scrubs.
• Home Goods: Unique items like pottery, glassware, woodwork, and textiles.

Part of the fun is chatting with the makers themselves, who are happy to share the stories and techniques behind their creations. The market has a wonderful community feel that truly celebrates Portland’s independent creative spirit.

Global Flavors from Local Carts

In addition to arts and crafts, the Saturday Market is a fantastic place to sample global vegan cuisine from some of Portland’s most beloved nearby food venues. A short walk will take you to options like:

Matsunoki Ramen – Pine St Market

126 SW 2nd Ave ( inside the Pine Street Market; less than 5-min walk)

Japanese ramen counter with clearly labeled menu with vegan options that includes an assortment of ramen bowls, vegetable curry rice bowl, mapo tofu bowl and sides such as brussels sprouts, popcorn tofu and shishito peppers.

Shanghai’s Best

126 SW 2nd Ave (inside the Pine Street Market; less than 5-min walk)

Has vegan options of pan-fried dumplings and red-bean-paste steamed buns. 

Rabbits Cafe 

555 SW Oak St (8-min walk)

Rabbits Cafe has grown into a beloved spot serving up flavorful and wholesome meals. Their menu is designed to make eating nutritious and delicious food easy, offering plant-powered options that leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Their smoothies, packed with healthy and tasty ingredients, are perfect for fueling you up after a day at the Saturday Market. 

Al-Amir Restaurant

223 SW Harvey Milk Street (8-min walk)

Lebanese restaurant with vegan choices such as hummus, tabouleh, baba ghanoush, falafel, khudar (sauteed vegetables with garlic & tahini sauce), stuffed grape leaves, salads, vegetable kebab and more.

Dar Salam – Downtown

320 SW Alder Street (11-min walk)

Arabic restaurant offering marked vegan dishes, including mezza plates, stews, rice plates, dessert and appetizers which are vegan Iraqui dishes.

Departure Lounge

525 SW Morrison Street (14-min walk)

This rooftop restaurant on the 15th floor of the Nines Hotel looks out over downtown Portland and the West Hills. The regular menu is all fish and meat, but it also offers a separate vegan menu with veggie sushi, wok stir fries, and salads. 

Luc Lac

835 SW Second Avenue (13-min walk)

This is Vietnamese place has several clearly labeled items that are vegan or that can be made vegan. Vegan options include crispy spring rolls, pho, and vermicelli or rice bowl with tofu (sub a soy-based dressing for the fish sauce-based one).

The Whole Bowl 

Food Hall, 827 SW 2nd Ave (13-min walk)

All bowls here are free of nuts, gluten, wheat, hydrogenated oils, and guilt! They are loaded with brown rice, black and red beans, avocado, cilantro, black olives, salsa, and Tali Sauce. And of course you can ask your Bowlista to veganize it!

Thai Peacock 

219 SW 9th Ave (14-min walk)

Thai Peacock delights Portland’s palate by merging Pacific Northwest flavors with homestyle Thai comfort food. They aim to provide delicious, affordable dishes that everyone can enjoy every day. There are a variety of vegan options, along with gluten-free and soy-free dishes.

Sizzle Pie 

949 SW Oak Street (15-min walk)

This hip pizzeria is known for its creative vegan pies, a wide selection of beers, and its punk/metal vibe. All of its pizzas and sides are made with the freshest ingredients. You can make any pizza gluten-free with a GF crust, and they also offer vegan options using high-quality dairy-free alternatives, meatless proteins, and fresh veggies. 

Veggie Grill & Mas Veggies Taqueria 

508 SW Taylor Street (16-min walk)

Owned by Next Level, this modern, counter-service all-vegan kitchen offers plant-based burgers, sandwiches, salads, tacos, burritos, nachos, and bowls in 5 different flavors: Tejano tex-mex, chipotle carnitas, cauliflower asada, crispy poblano chicken, and crispy baja fish. Every menu item features wholesome, responsibly sourced ingredients and all-organic veggies. They are all about quality and sustainability — something good for the people, animals, and the planet. 

Let’s Roll PDX – Moxy 

585 SW 10th Ave (18-min walk)

Let’s Roll PDX in Portland is a popular Asian fusion sushi on-the-go spot. Their menu also includes vegan pokè bowls, salads, and a variety of Hawaiian entrées and sides. 

AFURI Kara Kurenai 

50 SW 3rd Ave (5-min walk)

This Tokyo-based ramen and dumpling restaurant offers delicious vegan ramen. The water quality, combined with the bounty of Pacific Northwest local farms and producers, allows them to create the highest-quality ramen and Japanese cuisine available. 

Tips for Visiting

• Weather: The market is open, rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
• Parking: Parking can be tricky, so consider taking public transit; the MAX Light Rail stops just steps away at Skidmore Fountain.
• Payment: Bring some cash, as not all vendors accept cards, although there are ATMs on-site.
• Pets: Well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome.
• Timing: Arrive early for the fullest selection of goods, but if you’re looking for deals, visit after 2 p.m.

The Full Portland Experience

The Portland Saturday Market is a must for anyone who appreciates handmade crafts, independent makers, and a vibrant community spirit. Beyond the market, take some time to explore nearby attractions such as:

• Lan Su Chinese Garden: A serene oasis featuring a traditional Ming Dynasty-style garden.
• Voodoo Doughnut: An iconic spot offering uniquely flavored doughnuts.
• Portland Art Museum: Featuring an extensive collection of art from various periods and cultures.
• Oregon History Center: a museum dedicated to Oregon’s rich cultural history. Their interactive exhibitions make history visible and accessible for all ages.
• Powell’s Books: The world’s largest independent bookstore, spanning an entire city block with over a million books. A must-visit for any book lovers!
• Portland Waterfront: A scenic stretch along the Willamette River, ideal for walks, festivals, and views of the city’s bridges. 
• Old Town: the city’s oldest neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, unique shops, and lively nightlife.
• Pearl District: a vibrant, trendy neighborhood with art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and converted industrial buildings.
• SW 1st Avenue: part of Portland’s downtown area, offering a mix of historic buildings, dining, and retail options. 

Where to Stay

Portland Eco House

Make your market adventure even more memorable by staying at the Portland Eco House, a charming Earth-friendly guesthouse in the Alberta Arts District. Choose from stylishly appointed rooms in the main house, a cozy patio cottage, or a private patio suite, all featuring organic bedding and eco-conscious amenities. The location is just a short drive or bus ride from the Saturday Market, and you’ll be surrounded by the neighborhood’s creative energy, galleries, and eateries.

With its commitment to sustainability, beautiful decor, and prime location, the Portland Eco House offers an authentic Portland experience that perfectly complements your market explorations. Wake up refreshed and ready to fully immerse yourself in the local artisans’ creative magic and flavors that make this city so special.

Happy treasure hunting!