The Alberta Arts District, which embodies the Vernon, Concordia and King neighborhoods, prides itself on cultural diversity and is home to an astonishing number of independent businesses. You will be hard pressed to find any chains on this street! Above all, Alberta is known for art. Walkscore.com has deemed this area “very walkable” meaning it is “possible to get by without owning a car.” The ability to slip into the Alberta Street Co-Op for a few essentials before you swing by the Community Cycling Center for a quick adjustment and top your day off with a soak at Common Ground Wellness Center or the Kennedy School’s heated outdoor soaking pool sounds like more than just “getting by” to me, though… But do not just take my word for it! Take a quiet stroll up Alberta with a cup of some of the best Joe in town the next time car-free Last Thursday (artonalberta.org) rolls around. Get a feel of the street before the people come rushing in to enjoy this Portland legend. When the sun sets, let yourself get swept off your feet in the middle of the street by the people, the music and the charm.
