I didn't get to play Milo because I was limited by both time and transportation. Pier was closer so that's what won out. I played the two larger courses at Horning's.
Horning's was awesome, wish I had the time to spend a whole weekend there.
Having moved to the Portland area about 4mos ago, I've gotten to try a few courses. Milo will be next.
Pier park is a nice technical course. Some elevation change and tons of trees. There's a McMenamins about a mile from it in St. Johns. Also look for Occidental brewing by Cathedral park (beneath St. Johns bridge) which is also very close by. It's a beautiful area next to the Willamette river.
Devote a day to Horning's Hideout. It's a really beautiful area with a lake and streams. Cost is $4/pp for a day-pass. I played the pro course which was fantastic. I left wanting to play more, but didn't have time, plus a tourney was taking up the mid course. There's also a short pitch-n-putt if your bride is into it. As someone else mentioned, you can also camp there if you have time. Check their events calendar in advance since they sometimes have music events, etc. going on. It's close to my house so I'll be back for sure. Also swing by McMenamins (Cornelius Pass Roadhouse) which has a distillery, plus great beers.
Blue Lake is like no other course I've seen (in my admittedly limited experience). I'm told it's designed by some pro. Costs about $4 to park (exact change required!). The course is still pretty new so the rough is REALLY rough, full of berry vines and long grass. The design forces you to hit the fairways cut throughout the course. The rough is considered OB, and if you play it accordingly, you'll have to really focus to score. There's a fair number of very long holes ~ 800ft +. There's a few other course out there to the East so check your maps. I'm told Dabney and Rooster Rock are great.
And if you're going to venture out to the East, you two can take a drive to the Columbia river gorge. Tons of waterfalls. My wife and I went out there with some friends a few weekends ago. It's a great Sunday drive. Stop in at the Vista House first. They'll give you some good info and a map, and it's a great view of the valley. Look for the Multnomah Falls Lodge too.
I recommend the Hotel Modera if you want to be right in the middle of downtown. Stylish hotel, but very reasonable rates, and you can easily hop on the streetcar or max light rail to get around. Cruise to the North part of town to the Pearl district for lots of dining choices. Deschutes Brewery is great (the real brewery is in Bend). You can also swing by Keen world HQ and pick up some new DG shoes. :thmbup:
Congratulations on the upcoming wedding.
