By Kyle Cape-Lindelin, Staff Writer -- capelind13@up.edu
Students should never be bored in a city as active as Portland, and UP students especially don't have an excuse because there is always an authentic place to have fun, get some delicious food and see a beautiful part of the city that is just a few blocks away: St. Johns.
St. Johns' unique combination of history and diversity make it an enjoying experience just to explore. Check Out These Places in St. John's:
Ole Ole Restaurant and Taqueria: 8620 N Lombard St. "I'm always going with a big group of friends so it's always a good time," junior Chris Vennes said.
"The Taqueria is amazing because it's so delicious and also super cheap," senior Ryan Alice said. "It has turned into a routine with friends so it's always building community."
McMenamin's Theater and Pub: 5736 NE 33rd Ave. If you're eager for entertainment, this classic theater and pub is a perfect place for the over-21 crowd to catch a movie and relax with a drink.
Tulip's Pastry Shop: 8322 N. Lombard St. For those who want to satisfy their sweet tooth, this charming little pastry shop has a variety of sugary snacks to choose from, as well as freshly made coffee.
Cathedral Park and St. Johns Bridge: Both of these places pose some potentially beautiful pictures for the memories. There are also festivals and street carts all around the area that give more opportunities for fun and ending your hunger.
Farmers Market: St. Johns Plaza, N. Lombard St., and N. Philadelphia St. The Farmers Market is a great place to buy fresh produce or get some clothes for bargain prices every Saturday morning July through September.
Big Kahuna's Barbeque: 8221 N. Lombard St. Grab some expertly-made BBQ and try their massive burgers in a relaxed atmosphere, but be prepared to get your fingers dirty.
Vinyl Resting Place: 8332 N. Lombard St. This small but insightful record store focuses more on laid back folksy music than typical record stores do, but they have a little bit of everything to satisfy the average music listener. Plus the employees definitely know their stuff when it comes to music.
Pattie's Homeplate Cafe and Fountain: 8501 N. Lombard St. Try some good old breakfast recipes and 50s feel at one of the oldest cafes in the neighborhood. You can also get your groove on during their sock hops every first and third Saturday night of the month.
Proper Eats: 8638 N. Lombard St. Offers fresh veggies for the vegetarians and healthy eaters alike. "I really enjoy Proper Eats; they have a lot of good stuff to buy and a selection. The prices are pretty reasonable, too, for vegetarians," junior Sean Kendrick said.
Greg's: 8218 N. Lombard St. Greg's is a collectors', antique and gift shop all rolled into one. You are sure to stumble upon something that catches your eye.