Pregnant in Portland

Is it just us, or does it feel like everyone you know is suddenly moving to Portland? We can’t blame them; this beautiful Northwest city is easy to navigate, filled with friendly people, and a food-lover’s dream town. Which makes it pretty perfect for pregnancy. But don’t just take our word for it! Our pregnant friend Salina Clark, photo art director at the Portland-based Hanna Andersson, recently gave us the pregnancy-friendly tour of Portland. Here are 7 places you’ve got to hit if you’re pregnant in Portland.

1. Eating: Salt & Straw is a local ice-cream shop known for their very unique flavors. I mean, tell me ‘dill pickle sorbet’ doesn’t sound mouth watering to any of you, other pregnant ladies out there?! The kids don’t complain either when I insist upon heading over there to fulfill a never-ending pregnancy craving. Worth the wait in line.
2. Drinking: City Grill. If you are visiting Portland for the first time, you’ll notice the big pink building in the skyline. You can’t miss it. At the top of this skyscraper is City Grill. It’s a great spot for a mid-week (mock)tail date night complete with live music and incredible views. Another great spot –and a little more trendy- is Angel Face . A little romantic and a great spot to meet up with someone you love.
3. Pampering: Loyly. Spa days are always a treat, but when you are pregnant they can be vital! Loyly is a great local spa. I am booking a “Refresh Facial” within the next month.
4. Relaxating: Portland Rose Garden. I tend to let stress get to me a lot easier when I’m pregnant and am constantly looking for ways to bring down my anxiousness. I’m always inspired when I take a walk through the Portland Rose Garden. Over 10,000 gorgeous, fragrant roses mixed with stunning views of downtown Portland allow for a very relaxing afternoon, always bringing me a sense of necessary calm.
5. People-Watching: Jamison Square. This cool spot features an interactive fountain – meaning you can play in the fountain! Perfect for the kids, but even better when you’re 7 months pregnant, and your feet are swollen, and you just need a good place to cool off… and people watch!
6. Babymooning: Hotel Lucia. Because we couldn’t get away for a proper tropical ‘babymoon’ this time around, my husband and I recently decided to take a little ‘staycation’ and spent a romantic night away at the Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland. It’s a unique hotel in the heart of Portland’s Pearl District – prime location in the city.
7. Shopping: The Pearl District. A great place for some retail therapy is the Pearl District of Portland. There you can find some amazing local artists and shops, and it’s also home to Hanna Andersson’s flagship store. Before I started working at Hanna, I was always impressed with their philosophy of “letting kids be kids” and their impeccable standard for quality. Now that I am immersed in the brand, I am even more in awe. That being said, I will be bringing my little one home from the hospital in a Hanna organic pima cotton sleeper. Hanna also launched their maternity line last fall (perfect timing for me!), and I have been living in the Hanna midi skirts this pregnancy. Not only do I love the Hanna quality, but I feel sexy and confident, and I happen to get a lot of compliments –especially when I wear the red and navy stripe one.