PORTLAND, OREGON

Romance factor: Arty couples looking to feather their nest should plan a weekend escape to Portland. The city's galleries and home design stores sit amid independent coffee shops and microbreweries. After picking out some eco-friendly stationery at Office, or matching ceramic mugs at Canoe, head to Powell's, the city's sprawling, beloved bookstore. Smooch amid the first editions, then buy some books to fill out your shelves. At night, you can hold hands and listen to local rock heroes like the Decemberists at Doug Fir, one of the city's famous music venues.

Love nest: The new Nines hotel is as Portland as can be: It's eco-friendly (think low-flow faucets and extensive recycling), laid-back (locals lounge on couches in the lobby), and filled with works by local artists. Rainy day? Spend the afternoon curled up on a leather chaise in the hotel library, sipping coffee and reading to each other as you wait for the sun to come out.

Fuel for the fire: Olea, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in the Pearl warehouse district, mixes vintage charm (vaulted beadboard ceilings, leather banquettes) with a whimsical menu. Share the restaurant's playful take on pigs in a blanket, which uses homemade sausage, then get a taste of local flavor with the oxtail braised in coffee.

The Nines
Tel: 877 229 9995
Doubles from $159

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