This Street In Portland Has The Most Eclectic And Charming Shops In The State

Mississippi Avenue is a historic Portland neighborhood that's undergone a big transformation in recent years. Like many inner suburbs, this neighborhood experienced a steady decline in residents and businesses beginning in the 1950s; and by the '90s, Mississippi Avenue was a shell of its former self. But then something marvelous happened: the neighborhood rallied together. The Historic Mississippi Avenue Business Association was formed, and over the next few years, the neighborhood experienced a sea change. Today, Mississippi Avenue is a vibrant and tight-knit community -- and a haven for local businesses. In fact, this street in Portland has the most eclectic and charming shops in the state, so let's go explore Mississippi Avenue!

Mississippi Avenue is a North Portland neighborhood that was established in the late 1800s.

The stretch of Mississippi Avenue between North Skidmore and North Fremont Streets is home to an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, retailers, and other businesses.

We'll start our tour of the neighborhood at Mississippi Studios, a place that's pure rock 'n' roll.

Mississippi Studios is a music venue and recording studio in Portland, where you can catch shows featuring local and national artists.

Next to Mississippi Studios, you'll find Bar Bar.

Mississippi Studios and Bar Bar are owned and operated by musicians. And these musicians know how to put together a killer burger.

In fact, Bar Bar may be the best burger joint in Portland.

Grass-fed beef, house-made ketchup, and a finger-licking "special sauce" make these burgers absolutely crave-worthy. And paired with a beer while watching a live show? That's a totally rockin' night out in Portland.

Another neighborhood institution is the eponymous Mississippi Pizza Pub.

Like so many other restaurants in this neighborhood, Mississippi Pizza Pub has indoor and outdoor seating, and really is a community hangout.

The pizza here is also incredible.

You can order Mississippi Pizza by the slice, and we recommend trying a few different varieties. "The Portland" pizza—pesto sauce, roasted red pepper, spinach, red onion, and sheep feta—is obviously a must.

Outdoor dining is a big trend in this close-knit community, and The Rambler has absolutely lovely front and back patios (and they're dog-friendly, too!).

The Rambler is located in a converted 1920s bungalow, and is just pure Portland charm.

Their focus is on classic, PNW comfort food. Think tomato soup and grilled cheese, Frito Pie (yes!), and loaded burgers.

But The Rambler's chicken and waffles might be the best thing on the menu. Crispy, salty, sweet, and juicy—you won't be disappointed!

You'll find another picture-perfect patio at Radar.

This fine-dining establishment entered the scene in 2012, and has earned national acclaim.

But don't be intimidated by the restaurant's prestige—the atmosphere at Radar is cozy, and the food is really, really good.

Of course, Radar's dishes are all gorgeously composed (think Top Chef-level presentation), but the food itself is unfussy and delicious. Like the steak frites, which are a local favorite.

The only thing that could make strolling down Mississippi Avenue any better is ice cream.

Ruby Jewel is an artisan ice cream shop in Portland, specializing in epic ice cream sandwiches.

In true Portland fashion, Ruby Jewel offers bike delivery, and while walking down Mississippi Avenue, you might see this adorable cruiser in action.

Their "Classic"—a chocolate chip cookie and vanilla bean ice cream sandwich—is pretty much the ideal summertime treat.)

Speaking of bikes, you'll find them everywhere in Portland.

And North Portland Bike Works is a nonprofit bike shop that's been serving the Mississippi Avenue community for nearly 20 years.

Up the avenue, Black Wagon is the most charming children's boutique in town.

Black Wagon sells high-quality children's clothing and shoes, sustainably crafted toys, and a variety of accessories and gifts.

The inside of this store is whimsical and inviting, and exactly the kind of place you want to be.

Dogs are an important part of the Mississippi Avenue community, and Salty's Pet Supply exists for Portland's pooches.

Salty's is known for friendly service, expert advice, and going the extra mile for its canine customers and their humans.

Rounding out our tour de force of Mississippi Avenue is Pistils Nursery.

This aptly named shop has been making Portland green since 2001.

Pistils is more than just a nursery; it's a little urban oasis.

Plants can be kind of intimidating for those not gifted with a green thumb, but Pistils Nursery offers classes, personalized customer service, and everything you need to be an amazing plant parent.

If Mississippi Avenue in Portland is a living, breathing being, then ReBuilding Center is its heart and soul.

The ReBuilding Center is a Portland nonprofit that sells discounted reclaimed building materials, vintage furniture, household appliances, and even new pieces made from repurposed items.

The ReBuilding Center is recycling and upcycling at its best—finding new uses and places for items that would otherwise be discarded.

This nonprofit diverts over 1,800 tons of materials from landfills each year.

You'll also find totally unique items here, like antique ovens, old pianos, and even vintage maps.

The ReBuilding Center epitomizes the spirit of Mississippi Avenue; it's a place that gives new life to old things, and the community spirit here is strong.

In the spirit of new beginnings, Prost Marketplace got a huge revamp in 2018, and under new management, emerged once again Portland's top food cart pod.

Located along North Mississippi Avenue and Skidmore, Prost Marketplace is home to some of the best food carts in Portland, including Bloodbuzz, Matt's BBQ, and White Elephant Asian Fusion.

Mississippi Avenue is a thriving and proud North Portland neighborhood.

It's a place where retailers flourish, small businesses are supported, and restaurants thrive. Mississippi Avenue is easily one of Portland's most charming spots, and the local love here is palpable.

Mississippi Avenue is a microcosm of Portland itself: it's eclectic and charming, a haven for local businesses, and a place that's proud of where it's been—and where it's going.

Have you explored Mississippi Avenue in Portland? If so, what's your favorite shop or restaurant there? Share it with us in the comments below!

If you're looking for a more businesses to support in Oregon, you'll love the Made In Oregon store. This retailer sells all things Oregon made, from iconic foods (including our beloved marionberry jam) and locally produced wine, to cozy textiles from Pendleton Woolen Mills and even reusable bottles from Hydro Flask!