For the finest in children's European fashion, this upscale shop carries a huge selection of Danish, Finnish and other Scandinavian clothing. Though pricey, the apparel is designed to last. Purchase an oversized Skandii sweater and it may get two years of wear-one as a tunic and the next as a sweater. The never-dull clothing selection reflects the whimsical characteristics of children and is designed with comfortable, earth-friendly products. The buyers make two annual trips to Europe, ensuring the availability of the latest styles.

Venture down Stark street to 2nd Avenue and find 2nd Avenue Records. Portland is a city full of record stores, but this one is unique. Upon entry, customers don't know if they're in a record store or a DJ's basement. Furthermore, one glance at the music on display shows people know they've come to the right place. There's an international pop music section, a full Hawaiian section, and enough reggae music to have to distinguish between reggae, rock steady, and ska. T-shirts and strange art hangs from the ceilings. Much of it is for purchase. To top it all off, the owner is completely analog. All records and sales are kept on pieces of paper and in actual flippable books. Products are new and used and the staff is open to carrying independent artists' work. -Cathryn D. Blue

Since 1905, this historic Downtown Portland sporting store has carried apparel and sporting equipment for every sport imaginable. The experienced staff (some with more than three decades of service experience) is happy to assist you in finding swimming, golf, basketball, team apparel and name brand sport shoes from Puma, Adidas and Fila. Find everything from baseball bats to tennis rackets, golf clubs to hockey skates. If purchases total at a certain amount stated by the store, they will be happy to validate parking.

Established in 1985, Laughing Horse Books is a volunteer-run establishment that caters to those inclined towards counterculture and anarchist literature. In addition, the store strives to be a welcoming space where every member of the community can stop by, whether to read, debate or just hang out. In addition, the store organizes many film screenings, musical performances and political events.

With almost 800 locations, Macy's remains America's favorite department store and in Portland you will find it across two locations. The outlet at Lloyd Center is huge and has everything under one roof - from bed & bath, home essentials, women and men's apparels, kids clothing, accessories to jewelery. The staff is professional and will help you find the product of your description so that you don't waste hours just browsing. Clearance sales and discounts make shopping at Macy's even more attractive. Check out the website for more information.

Don't be behind on the season's latest fashions, shop at one of America's most loved fashion brands - H&M. Located at the Lloyd Center, this outlet enjoys a central location, easily accessible from downtown. The collection is designed keeping a casual lifestyle in mind for both men and women; and sizes for every figure - from petite to extra curvy. Baby basics and kids' casual are also available, as are accessories and cosmetics. Watch out for the new arrivals and sales.

A one stop destination for the whole family, Eddie Bauer specializes in high-end sportswear and casualwear. The brand has two outlets in Portland and the Lloyd Center location is easily accessible from downtown. Established in 1920, Eddie Bauer has become a reliable and trusted name, and the signature collection is custom designed for an active and adventure-filled lifestyle. Apart from the apparels and outerwear, the store also has a department dedicated to camping gear, travel gear, bags & luggage and accessories.

Snowboarders know where to go for the latest in cool gear. Located next door to the Mountain Shop, this store caters only to this particular sport. Enthusiasts will find everything to fulfill their wildest boarding fantasies. Boarders choose from a huge collection of K2 and other excellent boards. Other necessities such as boots, bindings, backpacks and outerwear are also available. Friendly, efficient service and the youthful atmosphere are added pluses.

With beautiful Mt. Hood staring at you the entire time you are in Portland, you owe it to yourself to get up there. Here is the place to find the finest gear around. Skiers and snowboarders will appreciate top-of-the-line stuff inside this northeast Portland store. Brands like Columbia, Rossignol, Airwalk and Burton can all be found, and the store will cover you from head to toe with apparel, equipment, service and rentals. The merchandise is far from cheap, but it is shiny-new. Next door is Castle Snowboard Shop, which specializes in boards with full repair service.

You will find cakes, pastries, cookies, donuts, sticky buns, muffins, bagels, breads and everything else that would help a homesick Frenchman. This traditional bakery opened in 1924 and its cakes are a Portland mainstay. Use the old-fashioned made-to-order cake service for any occasion-the staff only needs 24-hour notice. A small selection of greeting cards is also available. A local secret: many items are half-price on Sundays. A box full of all sorts of sweets can be had.