If you’ve ever watched an episode of Portlandia, you’ll hear a lot of stereotypes about the Rose City. When you visit a Portland thrift shop, you’ll understand a few of those funny stories are imitating real life. But what will be even more evident is that you should have brought more money and left more room in your suit case.
Here are a few thrift shops I recommend paying a visit to in Portland:
House of Vintage (3315 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214)
This is the holy land of all vintage shopping. House of Vintage is a warehouse that you could lose yourself in for half a day if you had the time to spare. The store is broken into different vendor areas and they all update inventory regularly. You won’t find last season’s Forever 21 here. Come searching for real furs, leather saddle shoes, and high waisted jeans of your Instagram dreams. I took home a silk daisy tank, a silk teddy, and sunnies fit for a Charlie’s Angel. Isaac took home a hunter green 1970’s rain coat. Visit the website.
Buffalo Exchange (1036 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209)
I had never heard of this national consignment chain. I’m glad Yelp led me to the downtown location after a trip to Powell’s Books (more below). Buffalo Exchange has PACKED with bright patterns, Louboutins from the 1990s and racks of clutches and carryalls. I went home with an ice cream skirt. You saw it here. Tip: There is another Buffalo Exchange in Portland on Hawthorne, closer to House of Vintage. View all locations here.
Moda Boutique (729 E. Burnside Street, Portland, OR 97214)
This boutique reminds me of Clementine in Richmond, VA. Moda Boutique carries J. Crew and other name brands. Find your preppy summer frocks and espadrilles here. Tip: While you’re in the hood, stop by Stumptown Coffee. I visited a new coffee shop every day in Portland and this was THE BEST.
What Else to See in Portland Oregon
While I’m at it, here are a few other stops that I loved in Portland and are “must sees” in my book.
International Rose Test Garden
Portland is one of the most lush cities I have ever visited. A short walk through any neighborhood will reap views and scents of hundreds of types of flowers. The nick name the “Rose City” doesn’t come out of nowhere. The International Rose Test Garden is the shrine to the flower. The magical paradise overlooks the city. Tip: This adventure is best saved for late spring when the roses are in full bloom.
Powell’s Books
If you’re any sort of a book worm or a collector, this is a stop you have to make time for. From the rare book collection to stacks of pages on any topic, you can park your bum in any corner of the multi-story mecca. Powell’s City of Books has over 1 million books. I’m wearing my new favorite silk top from House of Vintage in this photo! Don’t bother with the coffee here. Tip: Grab it somewhere else before you head in.
Food Truck Pods
Family in town asked us to meet us at a Food Truck Pod on our first night in the city. After that, we rarely ate somewhere that wasn’t a food truck. It was a great way to see the city and save money. There are tons of food truck pods all throughout the city. They put Richmond to shame! Each pod is a permanent installment. Maybe of the pods have 10+ food carts. Get a list of food trucks in Portland here.
Have you been to Portland, where were your favorite places to shop, eat, and drink?!
I just loved this vintage store,Shopping for a good piece is like a treasure hunt.Great post keeps it up !!
Thank you!! Vi rage shopping is like therapy!