Side Quest: The Great Indoors in Portland

These days, making summer plans also involves having a backup in case of wildfires or extreme temperatures. If you happen to be on Hawthorne Boulevard when the sky’s hot and hazy, here are some ways to still have fun inside.

Shop for stylish furniture

Whether you’re looking for a conversation starter or a couch that balances comfort and sophistication, Vintage Pink’s showroom is well-stocked with mid-century modern pieces, as well as lighting, art, and other decor to upgrade your home.

Study the depths of creativity

Each exhibit at Verum Ultimum Art Gallery showcases work from artists around the world, with varying subject matters. Recent shows explored themes such as trees and femininity.

Set a new high score

At QuarterWorld, there are 30+ pinball machines and twice that many arcade games to test your digital mettle while you sip themed cocktails like the Mario & Lui-chee or Kirby’s Dream Land. Admission is $2; minors are allowed 1-7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tessi the Musical Tesla Coil puts on electrifying concerts on the first Thursday of the month.

Start a new hero’s journey

Excalibur Comics has been in the game since 1974 — making it the city’s oldest — and often attracts talented authors and illustrators for meet-and-greets with fans. Untold adventures await!

Shred the gnar

Ollie on over to Commonwealth Skateboarding, Portland’s only indoor concrete skatepark, where you’ll find daily open skate sessions, with nights for women and trans skaters (Mondays, 7-10 p.m.) and “Old Man Night” for skaters aged 30 and up (Wednesdays, 8-10 p.m.). There’s also a retail shop and lessons/camps for kids to learn the sport.