I've never been to that city before but will be there for about 24 hours. What should I go do and what is the best way to maximize my short time there?
What day of the week and what part of town will you be in? Personal transportation or public? I can try to recommend a few things.
Coming in Wedneday night leaving Thursday night. I'll be in downtown area and have no public transport.
Since it sounds like you'll be constricted to downtown only, definitely check out Powell's Bookstore. Also, go eat lunch at one of the food trucks by the Riverfront. Deschutes Brewery is in downtown too, so you could duck in there for a beer or two in the afternoon. If you like pizza, I'd highly recommend Hot Lips near the PSU campus.
Thanks. I'm also planning on taking a 4 hour tour to Columbia River Gorge. anything else worth checking out?