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Sunset over the iconic Portland, Oregon Old Town sign in downtown Portland, Oregon

The 17 best things to do in Portland right now

From quirky bike tours to doughnuts the size of your head, here are the best things to do in Portland

Portland is a fun, quirky little city, known for its super fun attractions and its innovative art scene. There’s plenty to see and do here, from music festivals to bike rides, and its ever-growing popularity lends itself to trendy craft breweries, food trucks and fabulous restaurants.

You might be visiting for Portland Rose Festival, for Chinese New Year or for the Winter Lights, but on either side, there’s a whole load of activities to fill your trip. Whether you like the sound of a whiskey library or a botanical garden, our list of the best things to do in Portland will see you through.

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best restaurants in Portland 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Portland 🍔 The best food trucks in Portland 🍻 The best breweries in Portland 🍩 The best doughnuts in Portland

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Fun things to do in Portland

1. Voodoo Doughnut

What’s better than doughnuts, I hear you cry? That’s right, it’s donuts the size of your head. And if that sounds like a dream come true, the answer to all of your prayers is right here, in Portland. Voodoo Doughnuts is a wild doughnut store in the city, with over 50 artisan flavours on offer, including 25 vegan options. Flavours range from grape ape to blueberry cake, so you’re in for a treat.

2. Bike tours of Portland

There are plenty of ways to see this city, but arguably the best way is via a bicycle. And if even that isn’t enough, you can join a bike tour in the city, from Pedal Bike Tours and Portland Bicycle Tours , which offer fully guided tours to get the most out of Portland. You can even join a drinking tour, where you pedal between the city’s best microbreweries, or they offer customized rides to your liking.

3. Portland Art Museum

Greater Portland

Founded in 1892, the Portland Art Museum is the oldest in the Pacific Northwest and, impressively, one of the oldest galleries nationally. With a vast array of works on display (contemporary, modern, and ancient pieces - and more than 45,000 of them), there is enough to keep you busy for an entire day. Peep some outstanding Native American art and one of the world’s most impressive collections of English silver. Its two buildings in Portland’s cultural district are connected via a subterranean gallery, with a sculpture garden to explore outdoors (look out for the towering Roy Lichtenstein work Brushstrokes ).

4. Powell’s City of Books

Jefferson Street

The largest independent bookstore in the world, Powell’s City of Books is home to more than 1 million new, used and rare tomes. Bookworms can find plenty to do in this labyrinthine store. In the Purple Room, check out the Espresso Book Machine, which you can use to publish your own book in the time it takes to make a cup of coffee. The Rare Book Room has plenty of signed volumes if you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind gift.

5. Multnomah Whiskey Library

The Multnomah Whiskey Library stocks an incredible selection of more than 2,000 liquors from around the world. Portland is rightly famous for its craft beer scene, but fans of the hard stuff now have their own clubhouse here too. This beautiful membership-based bar (Read: You have to become a member to imbibe) exudes sophistication and old-school class—it is already known as one of the finest whiskey bars in the world. If all libraries were like this, we’d be much more studious.

6. Portland Saturday Market

Attractions

A huge outdoor market – Portland's largest and the largest continuously operated outdoor market in the US – selling a great variety of arts and crafts. For a good ol' browse and a spot of breakfast/lunch. A stroll on any Saturday will turn up unique items (which make for great Christmas presents), like deer-antler jewelry and vegan soap. You can guarantee the quality of the food, as a panel of judges regularly checks the quality of what's being sold.

7. International Rose Test Garden

Parks and gardens
Arlington Heights

One of only six test gardens for the American Rose Society and the oldest official continuously operated public rose test garden in the United States. Whether you're a rose fanatic or just like to stop and smell them, the International Rose Test Garden has hundreds of them for you to admire and sniff. More than 10,000 rose bushes bloom with around 650 varieties of roses. Peak bloom is usually in June, but you can enjoy the beauty from April to October.

8. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Central Eastside

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry has to be one of the coolest educational facilities on the planet. Not only does it have the submarine from The Hunt For Red October (a.k.a. the USS Blueback ) as a permanent floating exhibit outside, but its outstanding planetarium also hosts Laser Pink Floyd shows. Yep, that’s laser shows to a thumping 1970s soundtrack. This place seriously rocks.

9. Portland Center Stage

Portland has plentiful performing arts options, from the wonderful Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, a.k.a. the “Schnitz,” to the Oregon Ballet Theater. But the most dramatic setting is undoubtedly the Gerding Theater in the city’s old armory. Already on the National Register of Historic Places, the building has attracted lavish praise from the architectural world for its intelligent renovation. The reviews are equally glowing for the theater’s resident company, Portland Center Stage.

10. Revolution Hall

The iconic 113,500-square-foot brick school on SE Stark Street was extensively renovated before starting a new life as a music venue. Portlanders have been going back to school in droves—namely, George Washington High School, which reopened as live music venue Revolution Hall in 2015 and has gone from strength to strength ever since. The popular rooftop bar with outstanding city views doesn't hurt either. It sure beats sneaking a beer behind the cafeteria.

11. Nong’s Khao Man Gai

Although Portland is home to more than 500 food carts, which you’ll see (and smell) baking, frying, and grilling all over town, Nong’s Khao Man Gai is a must-try. The simple yet delicious poached Thai chicken and rice at this food truck is a local legend. Within this miniature kitchen, one dish is perfectly executed time and time again - tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic sauce fit for a king.

12. Pittock Mansion

The French Renaissance–style château perched high in the West Hills was originally built for The Oregonian’s wealthy publisher Henry Pittock in 1909. This mansion-turned-city-owned museum tells the story of Portland’s growth over the last century through the eyes (and belongings) of the prominent Pittock family. At more than 1,000 feet above sea level, the mansion also commands some of the finest views over the city, making its lawns a popular picnic spot. Grab your strawberries and blankets, people.

13. White Stag Sign

Also known as the Portland Sign, a large neon sign atop the White Stag Building. This iconic sign welcomes those coming across the Willamette River to downtown Portland via the Burnside Bridge. Though the wording has changed over the years, it was designated a historic landmark in 1977 and permanently changed to read "Portland, Oregon" in 2010. Walk across the bridge to snap a pic, and try to get the skyline behind it. During Christmastime, the stag's nose glows red like Rudolph's.

14. Pioneer Courthouse Square

Widely referred to as “Portland’s Living Room”, this park hosts around 300 events each year. Pioneer Courthouse Square is also home to one of the city’s most famous residents: “Umbrella Man.” Otherwise known as Allow Me by J. Seward Johnson, the bronze statue of a suit-clad, umbrella-toting man has become a Portland icon, overlooking the events in this popular gathering space.

15. Forest Park

Willamette Heights

If Portland is a republic of tree huggers, then Forest Park is its capital. At a whopping 5,200 acres, it is the largest forested natural area within city limits in the United States—and a mere 10-minute drive from downtown, with multiple entry points. A verdant idyll situated on the west side, amongst the Tualatin Mountains. With 80 miles of accessible trails and beautiful views of the Willamette River, the reserve is a haven for hikers and wildlife alike. If you’re feeling fit, lace up your sneaks and tackle one of Forest Park's many hikes.

16. Oregon Historical Society

Thousands of artifacts tell the story of Oregon, from early settlement to the present day. For instance: Thanks to the flip of a coin in 1845, Portland gained its name. Had the coin landed the other way up, you'd be in Boston right now. It's great historical facts like this about the city and the state that make the Oregon Historical Society a winning visit. You can see the very 'Portland Penny' in question while you're there, as well as a 9,000-year-old sandal and a replica ship's hull.

17. The Shanghai Tunnels Virtual Tour

This network of underground catacombs was supposedly used for nefarious purposes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is now one of Portland's must-visit and most unique tours . While a sale of the building has now restricted access to physical tours of the tunnels, Cascade Geographic Society still offers amazing virtual tours of these not-so-well-kept secrets with intriguing backstories. Legend says that a dark secret lurks beneath Portland’s streets, where many an unsuspecting (or inebriated) Portlander would wake up to find himself aboard a merchant ship bound for the Orient—a process known as “Shanghaiing”. Step inside the Shanghai Tunnels virtually, and come face to face with this subterranean world, from hidden trapdoors to holding cells – just be sure to look over your shoulder.

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40 Best & Fun Things To Do In Portland (Oregon)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: May 8, 2021 - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Portland is a highly populous city in Multnomah County, famous for its slogan “Keep Portland Weird” and known for its progressive atmosphere and hipster vibes.

Its history runs deeper, though, as a historic shipping port that got up to a lot of mischief in the prohibition era.

Now, the city retains much of that charm in the form of vibrant art districts, lush natural spaces and parks, museums covering every imaginable topic, exciting festivals and events, and all sorts of gold-standard places to go.

With the many tourist spots, it can be hard to decide what places to see while you’re on holiday in Portland, Oregon.

Luckily, the sheer size of the city means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re keeping an eye out for the bizarre, the outdoorsy, the historic, the artistic, or the inventive.

So, which Portland attractions and things to see are worth your time?

To help you decide, here is our travel guide for the 40 best and fun things to do in Portland, Oregon.

Table of Contents

1. Washington Park

Sveta Imnadze / Shutterstock

Washington Park is widely considered one of the most popular Portland attractions.

Portland is filled with all sorts of different parks, but Washington Park manages to be a hotspot for tourists and locals alike.

It is packed with a variety of attractions – many of which are also on this list – and is an excellent place to rest and relax.

Spanning 410 acres, Washington Park is so lively and packed with activities that it’s hard to think of where to start!

A sightseeing tour brings you across museums, zoos, fields, courts, playgrounds, and even an archery range, all interspersed with fountains, flowers, and other natural features.

It’s one of the city’s oldest parks, too, purchased in 1871 when it was merely wild land, so there’s an added historic element to it!

With all the offerings to explore, you’ll probably spend a lot of time there this weekend.

Address: 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221, United States

2. Lan Su Chinese Garden

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

The Lan Su Chinese Garden spans 40,000 square feet of land and was created in 2000 as a means of connecting locals with Chinese culture following the budding relationship between Portland and Suzhou.

It is designed to resemble gardens from the Ming Dynasty, depicting the 16th-century luxurious exuberance of the dynasty’s wealthiest.

It’s one of America’s only authentic Chinese gardens, making it one of Portland’s loveliest things to see and one of the best places to travel .

An urban oasis, the Lan Su Chinese Garden features courtyards landscaped to perfection and various beautiful and ornate structures that grant insight into Chinese architecture.

The central feature is Lake Zither, which covers 8,000 square feet and is looked over by a delightful tearoom.

The tearoom, known as the Tower of Cosmic Reflections, is operated by Tao of Tea and spans two stories, with 50 seats to choose from as you look out over the lake.

A full menu of vegetarian snacks for all taste buds includes lotus-seed mooncakes, steamed buns, marbled tea eggs, pumpkin seeds dusted with green tea, daikon salad, and pressed plums.

The tower also runs a traditional tea service featuring oolong teas and more.

Address: 239 NW Everett St, Portland, OR 97209, United States

3. Pittock Mansion

Png Studio Photography / Shutterstock

There aren’t many deeply historical places to visit in the city of Portland, but Pittock Mansion is definitely among the top.

In 1853, Henry Pittock, a British-born immigrant, traveled to Oregon and settled down to work for a newspaper called the Weekly Oregonian.

A heavy believer in manifest destiny, within seven years he was the owner of the Oregonian, a daily newspaper, and had married Georgiana Burton, also a pioneer.

For the most part, the Pittocks were relatively frugal and humble, but as they grew older they decided to build their dream home.

The Pittock Mansion was commissioned in 1912 and was built to measure 16,000 square feet.

It is designed with a French Renaissance aesthetic and boasts 23 rooms, including a library, a Turkish smoking room, a music room, a pair of sleeping porches, a private shower, and more, with floors interconnected with an Otis elevator.

The mansion was finished in 1914 in the West Hills, on a 1,000-foot peak of 46-acre land.

Sadly, Georgiana would pass away in 1918 due to poor health, followed shortly by Henry in 1919.

The family kept the home but it was left severely damaged in a storm in 1962.

The City purchased the estate to save it from being demolished in 1964.

Today, it is a prime tourist draw of the city, boasting guided tours, gorgeous grounds, and spectacular views.

You’ll be impressed by the many surprisingly modern features of the Pittock Mansion, including intercoms, a central vacuum system, and indirect lighting.

Address: 3229 NW Pittock Dr, Portland, OR 97210, United States

4. Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry

Checubus / Shutterstock

The Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry is a stunning interactive museum that is among the best things to do in Portland for families and those who love science and history.

It’s very near – in fact, directly opposite – to the Portland State University and offers a look into complex concepts of science and innovation in an easy-to-understand and insightful way.

With eight labs and five halls all packed with hands-on exhibits, the Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry is a wonderful place to learn.

Showcases encompass topics like technology, paleontology, environment, physics, the ocean, chemistry, agriculture, engineering, health, outer space, reproduction, and more.

The Museum Of Science And Industry also offers cool things to do, like a science playground for young children, an IMAX theater with a four-story screen, the stunning Harry C. Kendall Planetarium, and an eatery on the riverfront that serves up healthy fare.

There is also the famous USS Blueback submarine onsite, the most modern American submarine that is displayed in the nation, and used in the filming of The Hunt for Red October after serving in the Navy for three decades.

Address: 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214, United States

5. Portland Japanese Garden

Randall Runtsch / Shutterstock

One of the beautiful places to go in the US is the Portland Japanese Garden that spans 12 acres and is situated on land that was once a zoo.

It is a part of Washington Park and was opened in 1961 as ties between Oregon and Japan were strengthened.

Former Japanese Ambassador Nobuo Matsunaga proclaimed the eight-garden expanse the most authentic and beautiful Japanese garden outside of Japan on the planet.

With an endorsement like that, this grew to be one of the city’s most loved points of interest.

Each of the eight gardens at the Portland Japanese Garden is designed to evoke a different technique of Japanese gardening.

Taoist, Shinto, and Buddhist philosophies can be seen in the influences of the different elements at play, with plants, stone, and water that evoke serenity and make you feel at one with nature.

At the Japanese Garden, you’ll have fun exploring bridges worthy of fantasy, pools full of koi, cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring, and curved pathways that lead you through different elements.

Among the structures here are the Cultural Village and Pavilion, the Kiyomizu-Dera temple-inspired Umami Cafe, the Zen garden, and the authentic Kashintei Tea House that was shipped to the city after being constructed in Japan.

The Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center, Ellie M. Hill Bonsai Terrace, and Strolling Pond Garden are all things to see, too!

Address: 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205, United States

6. Forest Park

Dee Browning / Shutterstock

Forest Park is a must-see for natural escapes in the urban setting of Portland.

The dense, lush expanse of this Pacific Northwest forest measures 5,200 acres in size, making it one of America’s biggest urban green spaces.

With no entrance fee, it’s also one of the city’s free things to do and is perfect for sightseeing and relaxation.

It was opened in 1948 but has been in the works since 1903, when the sons of Central Park co-designer Frederick Law Olmsted proposed the land’s preservation.

Forest Park boasts 80 miles of roads and trails for cycling and hiking, all within the generous space of the city and on the east of the imposing Tualatin Mountains.

Relatively near Washington Park, it features many different pathways that bring you through scenic and delightful places to visit.

One of these is the Wildwood Trail, which spans 30 miles and is a part of the Loop system that goes from Gresham to Willamette Greenway and to Marquam Trail, leading along the Columbia River.

It’s one of the most recommended trails in the park.

Address: NW 29 & Upshur to Newberry Road, Portland, OR 97210, United States

7. The Grotto

ARTYOORAN / Shutterstock

The Grotto is the common name used to refer to The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother, a Catholic shrine famous around the globe that receives over 200,000 annual visitors.

It is run by the Order of Friar Servants of St. Mary and is dedicated to Mary, Our Sorrowful Mother.

The beautiful location means it’s a great choice for what to do, even if you’re not religious or Catholic – and if you are, it’s one of the best sites in Portland, Oregon!

The property of the Grotto spans 62 acres and is centered with a majestic and dramatic 110-foot cliff that hosts a shrine lit by candles and numerous religious sculptures.

The cliff also bears a rock cave in the base that holds a replica of Michelangelo’s Pieta, made from marble and life-sized.

The botanical gardens of the Grotto are well-maintained and make use of a mix of carefully kept greenery and wild foliage.

You’ll see fir trees, shrubs of rhododendron, and more along the many walkways, some of which provide lovely overlooks of the Columbia River Valley.

If you’re interested in attending mass, you can, and the noon mass is held outdoors in the Grotto itself.

Address: 8840 NE Skidmore St, Portland, OR 97220, United States

8. Oregon Zoo

The Oregon Zoo is another feature of Washington Park, taking up 64 acres of space and housing close to 3,000 individual animals, with 90 species – 19 of which are endangered.

The zoo got its start in the latter part of the 1800s, when Richard Knight began to build his own private animal collection in Portland and opened the space to visitors, growing it into one of the city’s prime tourist attractions.

Dotted with native plants, the Oregon Zoo is a natural paradise with 23 fun exhibits separated into five uniquely themed areas, with a few more planned in development.

Currently, there is the Discovery Zone, the Great Northwest, the African area, the Elephant Lands that are a whopping 6 acres, and the Pacific Shores.

There are animals from the Arctic, the Amazon, and the African savannah and beyond.

Throughout your trip, you’ll get to see sea lions, birds, sea and river otters, insects, a trio of lions named Kya, Zawadi, and Neka, and a Penguinarium.

The zoo also puts a lot of effort into research and conservation, typically focusing on Pacific Northwestern species.

You can learn more in the zoo’s many tours, classes, camps, and programs.

If it’s summer when you visit this weekend, you may be able to check out a cool concert packed with much-loved musical celebrities like “Weird Al” Yankovic, Ziggy Marley, and even The Roots in an outdoor amphitheater that seats 3,800 people.

Address: 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221, United States

9. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

JPL Designs / Shutterstock

The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden didn’t start out as the grand attraction it is now.

Rather, Portland-local Sam Jackson, owner of the Oregon Journal at the time donated some land near Terwilliger Boulevard to be used in its construction.

There were 27 acres in total, but the land was rocky and unusable, forcing the site to be moved to a new location.

That location was once an outdoor stage for students of Reed College called “Shakespearean Island”.

Shakespearean Island was a lot of work to fix, given its dense overgrowth of blackberries and brush.

Volunteers worked to clean it up, eventually leading to the first rhododendron show on the site in 1956.

In 1964, the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden finally was christened an official garden.

Today, it is home to a whopping 2,500 and more rhododendrons, along with many other plants.

The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is a bit of a hidden gem, which is a shame given its beauty.

A lake invites geese, ducks, and other waterfowl, while scrub jays, red-winged blackbirds, and 94 other species find refuge in the trees.

Meandering trails bring you through the relaxing location, interspersed with fountains.

With a low entrance fee, this is one of the top cheap things to do in the city.

If you’re here at the right time, you can hop in for May’s Mother’s Day Show or April’s Rhododendron & Daffodil Show.

Address: 5801 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97202, United States

10. Powell’s City of Books

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock

Are you a bibliophile seeking fun things to do in Portland?

Look no further than Powell’s City of Books !

Third-generation-owned, it takes up a whole block of Portland’s West Burnside.

Its life began in 1971 when the Powells set up their family business with the goal of selling a mix of used and new titles 365 days a year with the aid of staff that truly love books.

They were among the first to open a business in the Pearl District, and today they are the biggest used and new bookshop in the world.

Powell’s City of Books boasts more than one million books across 3,500 sections, three floors, and nine color-coded individual rooms.

It has its own map that you can get at the front desk to navigate through sections for every topic and genre imaginable.

Pillars hold signatures of the many authors who have visited – and there are many, with 500 or so visiting on an annual basis, so you should check if anyone’s visiting this week when you’re in town.

As you can imagine, everything from old to new books can be found at Powell’s City of Books.

When you’re done shopping the more affordable stuff, head up to the Rare Book Room and gaze in wonder at the 1,000-square-foot space decorated with antiques and artwork and featuring all sorts of signed first editions.

If you’re on time for them, there are two behind-the-scenes tours held on Sundays on a first-come, first-served basis.

Address: 1005 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209, United States

Visiting other parts of Oregon? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Eugene, Oregon ?

11. Shanghai Tunnels

Keary O. / flickr

The Shanghai Tunnels have a long history that has made them among the best unusual things to do among Portland attractions.

Portland was, once upon a time, considered one of the world’s most dangerous ports.

It was known as the Forbidden City of the West from 1850 all the way up to 1941, and a part of that city was the Portland Underground, often referred to as the Shanghai Tunnels.

The Shanghai Tunnels were used for legal purposes a lot of the time, as they connected the docks of the Willamette River to basements of hotels and bars, keeping goods safe from the elements.

But there were also more illicit activities going on, as well, with alcohol provision and opium dens in the prohibition era.

An urban legend with little to no evidence surrounds the underground in the term “Shanghaiing”.

Tales go that Shanghaiing meant the sale of captured and kidnapped men for ship captains who needed crew members and of women for prostitution.

Many other horror stories plague the Shanghai Tunnels, such as slaves being consumed by hungry crew, human trafficking, and more.

Of course, it’s almost certain that this is all a myth.

While you’re in Oregon, touring the Shanghai Tunnels is an exciting way to explore.

Parts of it are open to the public, with tours provided by the Cascade Geographic Society.

There are ghost tours, heritage tours, and cultural tours.

Address: 120 NW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97209, United States

12. International Rose Test Garden

B Brown / Shutterstock

The International Rose Test Garden is a key choice among things to do in Portland, Oregon.

It was founded in an effort to protect and preserve hybrid European roses from the raids of World War I and was established in 1917.

This makes it America’s oldest continually operating garden of its kind.

More than 10,000 roses are grown at the International Rose Test Garden over its 5 acres of land.

Gorgeous views and delightful exuberant splendor make it a fun visit even in off-seasons, though you should aim for early summer trips to catch everything in bloom.

Different gardens and locations add variety.

The Shakespeare Garden has roses all named after Shakespeare’s characters.

The Miniature Rose Garden is home to all sorts of smaller species of roses.

The Gold Award garden is filled with stunning award-winning roses.

It’s all very delightful!

The International Rose Test Garden has become a part of the city’s identity and culture, and it’s one of its free things to do.

It allows you to get up close and personal with the inspiration behind other local features like the New Rose Tattoo shop, the famous Rose City Genmaicha of Steven Smith Teamaker, the all-female roller derby league called Rose City Rollers, and Nuvrei’s pistachio-rose croissants.

Address: 400 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205, United States

13. Hoyt Arboretum

Wasim Muklashy / Shutterstock

Want even more free things to do in Portland, Oregon?

Then one of your go-to places to visit should be the Hoyt Arboretum !

It first opened its doors in 1928 and features over 6,000 individual species from 172 families of trees across a whopping 189 acres of land.

Species come from all over the world, including from countries like Algeria, Chile, India, Afghanistan, and Germany.

12 miles of trails allow easy exploration throughout Hoyt Arboretum.

There are nature activities, guided bird walks, and a visitor center.

Better yet, it’s all nonprofit-run!

You’ll get to view a mix of nonnative and native species, helpfully labeled with placards in both English and Latin.

Don’t forget to check out the bamboo forest and redwood grove, too!

Address: 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR 97221, United States

14. Tom McCall Waterfront Park

A trip to the Tom McCall Waterfront Park is one of the best things to do in Portland, whether you’re seeking to go sightseeing, relax, or join a festival.

Situated in downtown Portland next to the Willamette River, it is named after a former governor of Oregon and covers 30 acres of ground and wide-reaching, stunning views of the skyline.

There are lots of activities you can enjoy here at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

Salmon Street Springs fountain offers a great place to cool down during the warmer days, and it’s always a good time to walk, jog, skateboard, or cycle – even if it gets a bit crowded sometimes.

You’ll also find some monuments here worth checking out, like the Police Memorial, the Founders Stone, and the Japanese American Historical Plaza.

Due to its convenient location in the city, the Tom McCall Waterfront Park is the site of many regular events and festivals for the city, including the Portland Rose Festival and the Oregon Brewers Festival.

When there’s nothing special going on, explore the park’s five different zones, from the riverside walkway of The Esplanade to the grassy concert area of the Bowl, and from the crowded Central Lawn to the historic John Yeon Building.

Address: 98 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204, United States

15. The Witch’s Castle

Jared Stine / Shutterstock

The Witch’s Castle is one of the weird things to do in Portland, but that’s what makes it one of its most fun points of interest, too.

With so many years of history to its name, it’s no wonder that it’s lived many lives and been the site of a fair few curiosities, ranging from murders to parties.

The land where the Witch’s Castle stands was purchased in the mid-1800s but Danford Balch as the city was still in development.

Balch hired Mortimer Stump to clear out the area, and Stump fell in love with Balch’s daughter, Anna, and asked Balch for her hand in marriage.

Balch refused and Stump was furious, taking Anna with him to elope.

Balch became depressed as a result, and when the couple returned, Balch murdered Stump on the Stark Street Ferry.

He was then executed – the first of the state’s legal execution.

The land then passed around from hand to hand and finally landed in the hands of the city, which built the stone “castle” close to the original homestead of Balch.

For a time, the Portland Parks and Recreation maintained it, using it as a station and restroom.

A storm damaged the structure in 1962 and it was abandoned.

Then, in the 1980s, high school students stumbled upon it and began using it for their parties, naming it the Witch’s Castle.

Every Friday night, high schoolers gather here to have a good time, even till today.

Address: Lower Macleay Trail, Portland, OR 97210, United States

16. Portland Art Museum

The Portland Art Museum is the Pacific Northwest’s oldest museum of art and holds the most prestigious collection of works in all of Oregon.

It was founded in 1892 and holds over 45,000 works from different genres, artists, and eras.

Three interconnected buildings make up the total expanse of the vast museum, which can be overwhelming when you’re trying not to get lost!

The Portland Art Museum is home to Japanese screen prints, European masters’ works, contemporary American creations, photography, and a sculpture garden.

One of its must-do exhibits is the Native American gallery, which showcases 5,000 artifacts from different eras, taken from over 200 different tribes.

There is also a beautiful collection of English silver, a stunning Ansel Adams collection with 26,000 prints, an Asian archaeology, and art collection, works by artists whose masterpieces defined the American West.

Address: 1219 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205, United States

17. The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium maintains the spirit of the Keep Portland Weird slogan with an eclectic museum-and-shop dating back to 1967.

It was created by Oregon local Conrad Talmadge Elwood, an explorer who loved the bizarre, weird, and zany, and he claims he created it after dreaming of the store.

That’s likely not true, but the falsehood is in line with all the pranks and funnies the shop has to offer.

In other words, if you’re wondering what to do in Portland that’s all-out unusual, this is one of your best options.

Shelves in the gift shop of The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium are packed with cheap gag toys, strange pop artifacts, unnerving specimens, and more, all positioned behind the huge statue of Bigfoot that greets you when you walk in.

The museum area itself hosts all sorts of exhibits where photography is more than welcome.

At The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium, you’ll get to see a seated Krampus statue with evil red eyes, strange drawings, freaky memorabilia, a nightmare dollhouse, an alien autopsy recreation, and the inside of a zombie’s brain.

An art gallery is also here, showcasing the more one-of-a-kind works of art from the city’s many artists.

If you have a strong stomach, try The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium’s fresh chocolate chip bug cookies, served hot and fresh with edible mealworms, scorpions, and crickets.

Address: 2234 NW Thurman St, Portland, OR 97210, United States

18. Multnomah Falls

Thye-Wee Gn / Shutterstock

The Multnomah Falls are a whopping 620 feet in height and, while technically outside of Portland, Oregon, are among the tourist attractions worth the half-hour drive out.

The fun falls provide you with the opportunity to climb to Benson Bridge, where you can view the falls up-close from the first tier, or all the way up to the peak of the falls to look out over the Columbia River Gorge.

At the very bottom, the Multnomah Falls Lodge has amenities, an eatery, and a gift shop.

The Multnomah Falls are filled and fed by rainwater, an underground spring, and snowmelt, so it’s one of the West’s only waterfalls that flow throughout the year.

It’s the fourth tallest in the country and the second tallest of the year-round kinds!

Native American legend states that the falls were made to win a young princess’ heart so she could have a secret bathing spot.

Address: Oregon 97014, United States

19. Cathedral Park

T_Eisele / Shutterstock

There are plenty of parks in this city in Oregon, but Cathedral Park is among the top places to go.

It’s one-of-a-kind, incredibly breathtaking, and wonderfully romantic.

Situated in the northern portion of the city along Willamette River, it has a quiet location underneath the St. Johns bridge, which is where it got its name – the cathedral-like design of the bridge’s footing adds an ethereal atmosphere to the area.

The park was built five decades or so after the bridge, so it only opened in 1980.

Until then, it was virtually just a junkyard until a fundraising drive, run by Howard Galbraith, earned $7.5 million to be used to convert the space into a park.

The Cathedral Park Committee created and sealed a time capsule when the park was finished and placed it in the Memorial Garden’s Wall of History to be opened in 2030.

The instructions for finding it are hidden and kept secret.

Address: North Edison Street and Pittsburgh Avenue, Portland, OR 97203, United States

Looking to explore Oregon? Famous for the world’s largest living organism, Oregon has a lot to offer to tourists! If you plan a trip, here are some of the best places to visit in Oregon !

20. World Forestry Center Discovery Museum

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The World Forestry Center Discovery Museum is another attraction in Washington Park, Portland.

It opened in 1971 and measures 20,000 feet in size.

Its mission is simple but important: it aims to teach tourists and locals of Oregon alike about the importance of trees, nature, and forests in environmental sustainability.

The first floor of the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum covers the ecology of forests and general sustainability through a local perspective, while the second floor widens the scope to a global scale.

The second floor lets you take virtual trips to Russia, China, South Africa, and Brazil to learn about their forests and the unique challenges they face, as well as the relationships between woodlands and the people.

Looking for fun things to do in Portland?

Take a raft ride from here to gaze out over the forest from above!

21. Portland Farmers Market at PSU

The Portland Farmers Market is so famous that it’s one of the commonly visited Portland attractions itself!

Held at Portland State University, it features 200 vendors that rotate every Saturday.

They sell everything from baked goods to eggs and from grass-fed meats to cheese and charcuterie.

You’ll find craft chocolate, fresh produce, chanterelles, local blueberries, and seasonal fruits galore at this lovely Farmers market.

Try some of the SuDan Farm lamb, Old World Apples, Hood River cherries, and more.

There’s no end to the treasures and yummy goods you can find, so take your time to explore!

Address: 1803 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97201, United States

22. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Bob Pool / Shutterstock

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area can be walked or driven to from Portland, Oregon and offers a cheap entrance fee, lots of things to see, and a fun and active adventure to embark on this weekend.

Covering 290,000 acres of land, it’s often considered the most scenic part of the lower portion of the Columbia River, bisected by the popular Pacific Crest Trail.

Marking the state border, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is the perfect place for site seeing and nature-themed activities.

It’s also a wonderful place to take some photographs of the stunning waterfalls, like the Latourell Falls, Oneonta Gorge, and the already-mentioned Multnomah Falls.

Address: Hood River, OR 97031, United States

23. Pioneer Courthouse Square

Pioneer Courthouse Square is widely considered the Living Room of Portland by locals.

If you’re trying to get in touch with authentic downtown Portland, Oregon life, this is one of the best places to visit.

More than 26,000 individuals pass through Pioneer Courthouse Square daily.

It spans 40,000 square feet, is a common event space, and has tons of fascinating features to ogle.

The central area is an amphitheater of sorts that you can sit in during events.

There are bricks scattered about Pioneer Courthouse Square that have names on them – names of locals who paid $15 for the honor as a manner of donating to the construction costs.

There is a fountain that resembles a waterfall, a chess table, and the beloved Umbrella Man, which is a bronze statue of a man in a suit carrying an umbrella.

Address: 701 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR 97205, United States

24. Portland Troll Bridge

Portland Troll Bridge

If you want some fun stuff to add to your to do list, the Portland Troll Bridge is a great option.

Trolls were widely considered fearsome, hostile monsters, stealing human women, eating human children, and lashing out against human men.

But that’s actually not at all what the troll bridge is about – in fact, it’s a bit of a Keep Portland Weird moment!

Trolls became the name of a brand of children’s toys, with wacky vibrant hairstyles and big smiles, that rose to fame in the 1960s.

It is these plastic little ones that you can find at the Troll Bridge.

Surrounded by woods, the bridge has been affixed with troll dolls all over, coming and going as people steal and replace them.

There are even some trolls painted on the bridge itself!

If you plan to cycle up here, make sure you’re ready for the challenging hills.

Address: 16498 NW McNamee Rd, Portland, OR 97231, United States

25. Oregon Historical Society Museum

The Oregon Historical Society Museum is situated in downtown Portland.

It opened in 1898 and has since been telling the tales of the state, from its first settlers to those who live here now.

It has earned its spot among worthy points of interest, especially given its housing of an important artifact to the city, but also thanks to the 85,000 or so artifacts related to local history onsite.

Within the halls of the Oregon Historical Society Museum sits the Portland penny, which was flipped to decide the name of the city.

The two options were “Boston” or “Portland”, and well, we know who came out the winner!

Other great things to check out are a sandal that is 9,000 years old, the replica of a ship’s hull, and the library.

With all the manuscripts, artifacts, films, books, and photographs to see, you’ll leave with a much deeper understanding of this lovely state.

Address: 1200 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205, United States

26. Mill Ends Park

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

Mill Ends Park is a fun must see in Portland – and you may have passed it without realizing it’s there!

It is the smallest city park in the world according to the 1971 Guinness Book of World Records and measures a mere two feet in size, where it sits on the Naito Parkway’s median, largely unnoticed.

The park was created by Dick Fagan, who came back to continue his work at the Oregon Journal in 1946 after the war.

From his window, he looked down onto the street and saw a tiny hole in the road’s median, meant for a light pole but unused.

Weeds were growing in it, so Fagan decided to plant flowers there.

He told a fanciful tale of its origin, claiming that leprechauns that only he could see created it, and Fagan wished for a park from the leprechaun and was given the hole in turn.

Mill Ends Park’s legacy has continued since Fagan’s 1969 death.

It was designated a city park in 1976 and is the home of many inventive and unique festivities, complete with tiny decorations.

Address: 56 SW Taylor St, Portland, OR 97204, United States

Planning a trip to Astoria? The city that became the setting for the 1985 film titled The Goonies as well as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 3, Astoria is packed with tourist attractions! If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Astoria, Oregon !

27. Mount Tabor Park

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Mount Tabor Park is another one of the free things to do in the city.

Mount Tabor itself is a cinder cone of a dormant volcano.

Climbing up to its peak is a fantastic way to get views of Mouth Hood and the downtown area.

Looking for other kinds of stuff to do at Mount Tabor Park?

Walk the trails to view three reservoirs that once held the drinking water of the city.

Come at the right time to watch the Portland Adult Soapbox Derby in August.

Or seek out the statue of Harvey W. Scott, who edited the local daily paper for a long, long time!

Address: SE 60th Ave &, SE Salmon St, Portland, OR 97215, United States

28. Portland Saturday Market

Not sure where to go to get a real feel of the city?

The Portland Saturday Market is an excellent place to start.

It has been up and running since 1974 as a staple of Oregon, providing sales of exotic foods, lovely souvenirs, ethnic cuisine, handcrafted items, and more.

On some days, special events, performances, and live entertainment are held to liven up the already vibrant, crowded scene.

Held at the Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the Portland Saturday Market shows off an impressive 252 booths of pet supplies, art, toys, clothing, food… anything you can imagine!

Local artisans, jewelry makers, photographers, and vendors showcase their wares and await your purchases.

Address: 2 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204, United States

29. Downtown Park Blocks

miker / Shutterstock

Looking for things to do in downtown Portland?

Well, it doesn’t get more “downtown” than the fun and aptly named Downtown Park Blocks!

Over a couple of dozen of these “blocks” create a quirky few places to visit, parks that cover the same space as a city block would.

This was a part of the planned development of this Oregon city from very early on, and through all the development around them, they’ve only stayed protected and strong.

The South Park Blocks are likely the most popular, with twelve blocks in total and each one housing at least one public art piece.

These include statues of Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.

A total of 337 trees of maple, elm, and oak varieties are scattered throughout the area, as well as a lovely choice of fragrant roses.

The Downtown Park Blocks are perfect for photography.

There are prepared vanishing points for all your picture-taking needs.

This is also just a great place to take a stroll in for some relaxation.

Address: 1436 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97201, United States

30. National Hat Museum

National Hat Museum

The National Hat Museum is one of the top things to do in Portland for those seeking a little extra unusualness in their historical learning.

It is located in the already odd Ladd-Reingold House, which has been through a fair bit of strangeness in its time.

It was built in the 1900s in the Craftsman style, and Rebecca Reingold of Russia came to purchase the house soon after its completion.

The Reingolds were an eccentric bunch.

Though the last of them moved out more than six decades ago, their legacy lives on in the strange design of the Ladd-Reingold House.

There are backward doors, pocket doors, a mermaid on the ceiling of the dining room, hiding spots – but most importantly, there are hats.

Rebecca loved hats and loved to collect them, even learning to make them herself.

A new owner, who also loved hats, purchased the house in the 70s and accidentally inherited Rebecca’s entire collection of hats.

With all the treasures she and Rebecca had combined, she opened the National Hat Museum.

Here, you can find hats of Victorian, Edwardian, vintage, retro, novelty, international, and silly styles for all genders.

There are even rare designer hats, movie memorabilia, and more.

Beyond the hats, you’ll see hamburger artifacts, mermaids, dice, and even hands – yes, hands!

Address: 1928 SE Ladd Ave, Portland, OR 97214, United States

31. Mount Hood

TayHamPhotography / Shutterstock

Mount Hood is one of the world’s most-climbed mountains, easily recognizable to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Its summit leads to Oregon’s highest point, 11,239 feet above sea level.

The climb up is precarious, requiring technical knowledge of ice and climbs, but there is an easter Hogsback route that is shorter and simpler – but by no means safe or easy.

Climbing Mount Hood is a risky endeavor.

Fumaroles on the summit can suffocate you.

Melting snow and loose rock can make you slip.

Falling ice could injure you.

In other words – if you plan to climb or ski here, make sure you know what you’re doing!

If you have the guts, the view from the peak is one of the things to see not to miss in Portland.

Address: Oregon 97041, United States

32. Providence Park

Kaytoo / Shutterstock

Providence Park is a stadium that is home to multiple Portland sports teams: the Vikings, the Thorns, and the Timbers.

It was built in 1894 and has seen tons of action, ranging from ski jumping contests to cricket matches, and even an Elvis concert in 1957 that induced hysteria in the crowd.

Watching a game here is very rewarding, and for entertainment, it should be on your list of what to see while in Oregon.

Almost no seats are “bad” and sitting close to any fans of the Timbers is sure to make for an exciting time tonight.

Address: 1844 SW Morrison St, Portland, OR 97205, United States

Planning a trip to Bend? Famous for its wilderness, Bend is a vibrant city filled with beautiful scenery! If you do plan the trip, here are our picks on what to do in Bend, Oregon !

33. Portland Aerial Tram

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The Portland Aerial Tram is a part of the city’s official system of transit, but it’s not particularly practical, which is why few locals use it for proper transportation purposes.

Instead, it’s become one of the best things to do in Portland for those who want to get some views of Willamette River valley and Portland while killing a little time.

For the most part, the Aerial Tram merely is meant to connect the Oregon Health & Science University’s lower and upper campuses, with 500 feet of elevation across 3,300 linear feet.

It’s a four-minute ride and each tram leaves every six minutes or so.

Address: 3303 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR 97239, United States

34. Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden

Erin / flickr

The Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden is situated on the western portion of Grant Park.

Despite its name, it only contains three statues: a cheerful young girl, a boy, and their dog.

These are the characters of popular children’s author Beverly Cleary, namely Ramona Quimby, Henry Huggins, and Ribsy.

These statues circle a little fountain that gives the impression that they’re splashing about and having a blast, and the tiles beneath their feet are engraved with book titles.

Cleary grew up in Portland, so she used the city and its many places to see as inspiration for the settings for her many whimsical and delightful stories.

From the parking lot where Ramona’s boots got mud-stuck, to the lawn Henry searched for nightcrawlers on, all the way up to the home of the Quimby family on Klickitat Street.

If you grew up reading her works, you’ll want to visit the Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden for sure!

Address: Grant Park Path, Portland, OR 97212, United States

35. Wishing Tree

Wishing Tree

The Wishing Tree was once a simple horse chestnut tree in the northeast portion of Portland, but now it is a must-do trip thanks to its branches packed with wishes.

It is on Nicole Helprin’s property, and she began the wishing tradition in 2013 when she wrote some wishes to hang on the tree prior to leaving town.

When she came back, the entire tree was covered in wishes!

In 2014, Helprin made it even more official by adding a wooden clipboard to the Wishing Tree with instructions, telling readers to find a blank tag and write a wish for anything – themselves, their communities, their loved ones, anything they could think of.

And the rest, as they say, is history.

All across the city, more wishing trees have popped up to continue its tradition when it becomes too full.

Perusing each wish and leaving your own is a sobering and sometimes comedic experience!

Address: 2954 NE 7th Ave, Portland, OR 97212, United States

36. Brewery Tours

Africa Studio / Shutterstock

Portland has awesome craft beers, which is why there are 70 breweries scattered about the city.

Not sure what to do about the sheer amount of them?

Take a brewery tour!

These guided tours bring you through all the hotspots so you only try the greatest brews that the city has to offer.

Most tours stop at multiple breweries so you can sample a lot of different flavors and kinds.

Some of the most popular Brewery Tours for site seeing and drink in the city are Brewvana , the Brews Cruise, and BeerQuest Walking Tours.

Want specific recommendations?

Try Stormbreaker Brewing for cool patio drinking, Ecliptic Brewing for an especially delicious selection, Bailey’s Taproom for a huge variety, Ex Novo to support charity, and Lucky Labrador to check out one of the city’s oldest breweries.

37. Windows of Wonders

Bunny with a Toolbelt

The Windows of Wonders is a unique gallery that makes up one of Portland’s hidden gem tourist attractions.

No matter day or at night, the storefront window is constantly lit up to reveal the wonders that lie within – a whimsical chorus of tiny curiosities.

The landscape is designed to make it look like you’re peering into another realm, and a small sign is always updated, challenging you to try and find what lies in the little miniature world.

Every detail of the Windows of Wonders was made from reclaimed wood.

The displays vary, ranging from animals to fantasy creatures.

The artwork is the creation of Hilary Pfeifer, a local artist, who has made many different art projects for public display throughout the area.

Address: 1722 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, United States

38. Morrison Street Minigallery

Morrison Street Minigallery

If you’re looking for places to visit this weekend, check out Morrison Street, where the Morrison Street Minigallery showcases its unique collaborative creations.

It consists of a mere white shadowbox set in front of a house of Victorian design.

It is run by Jerry and Alissa, a married couple, who operate it as a minuscule museum and even tinier art gallery with 3D mini works.

Pieces tend to change monthly, and each one showcases something very small and very fascinating, from tiny primates to miniature piles of crystals and from dinosaur busts to little carpets, cabinets, and couches.

You can even purchase the pieces once the exhibits are over!

Address: 3229 SE Morrison St, Portland, OR 97214, United States

39. Stark’s Vacuum Museum

Stark’s Vacuum Museum

Sometimes, the fun things to do in Portland are merely museums dedicated to oddly specific objects.

Take the Stark’s Vacuum Museum , for example!

It is situated in a corner of Stark’s Vacuum Cleaner Sales & Service, right in Portland’s downtown.

Despite being very small, the Stark’s Vacuum Museum is surprisingly comprehensive, with a showroom boasting 300 vacuum models dating as far back as the 1960s.

The collection has continued to grow and grow, and owners of old models often donate their cleaners to Stark’s for this purpose.

If nothing else, it sure is intriguing to see all the different cleaners from the many years past!

Address: 107 NE Grand Ave, Portland, OR 97232, United States

Planning to visit Seaside? Famous for its sandy beaches, Seaside has tremendous historical significance. If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Seaside, Oregon !

40. Lincoln Street Kayak & Canoe Museum

Lincoln Street Kayak & Canoe Museum

Our final pick on the Portland attractions list is yet another museum: the Lincoln Street Kayak & Canoe Museum .

The collection of the museum is owned by Harvey Golden, who prefers to keep his boasts indoors at his garage, where he makes and displays them.

Golden’s main interests lie in vessels made by indigenous folks, and his works are often replicas of them, dating as far back as 400 years in inspirational material.

Golden keeps his eye on different displayed boats from different museums and works on fabricating replicas as a hobby.

His initial goal was to better understand how these boats handled water and could be assembled – now, he has an entire museum, ready for you to visit on a Thursday in Portland!

Address: 5340 SE Lincoln St, Portland, OR 97215, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Portland, Oregon

Portland is a delightful vacation hotspot with points of interest galore.

The next time you’re in the city, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to places to visit, no matter what your preferred attraction or pastime is.

Hopefully, this list has solidified an idea for you of where you’ll be heading to in Portland, Oregon!

Happy travels.

31 Top-Rated Things to Do in Portland, OR

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 24, 2023

Portland, Oregon, is a cultural capital of the Pacific Northwest. It's also an absolute must-see for domestic and international travelers. The city's thriving culture abounds alongside the region's lush forests and rivers, appealing to urban outings and outdoor adventures alike. And with an ever-rotating lineup of music acts, museum exhibits, and prime waterfall runoffs, things to do in Portland span the entire year.

The best things to do in Portland depend on your desired itinerary. Bibliophiles will want to check out Powell's Books, while foodies may gravitate toward one of the city's many food cart pods. Other places to visit in Portland include rose gardens; bridge crossings; and outdoor venues, like Pioneer Courthouse Square, aka Portland's Living Room.

Enjoy your trip to the Pacific Northwest with our list of top things to do in Portland.

1. Spend the Day at Washington Park

2. stroll through the portland international rose test garden, 3. center yourself at the portland japanese garden, 4. tour the pittock mansion, 5. hike the wildwood trail in forest park, 6. flip through pages at powell's books, 7. admire the artwork at the portland art museum, 8. take a book to crystal springs rhododendron garden, 9. spend time at pioneer courthouse square, 10. shop at the portland saturday market, 11. grab a bite from a local food cart, 12. enjoy the landscape at laurelhurst park, 13. take a day trip to sauvie island, 14. visit the animals at the oregon zoo, 15. walk down hawthorne street, 16. learn about the landscape at hoyt arboretum, 17. stroll through tom mccall waterfront park, 18. explore the alpine landscape of mount hood national forest, 19. bike or walk across the tilikum crossing bridge, 20. hop aboard history at the oregon rail heritage center, 21. chase waterfalls throughout the columbia river gorge, 22. explore a volcanic cinder cone at mount tabor park, 23. experience northwest portland in the nob hill neighborhood, 24. smell the roses at peninsula park, 25. learn something new at the oregon museum of science and industry, 26. catch a professional sports game in portland, 27. take an urban adventure on the 4t trail, 28. catch the view at council crest park, 29. hit the slopes at mount hood, 30. photograph the st. john's bridge at cathedral park, 31. find something strange at the freakybuttrue peculiarium and museum, map of things to do in portland, or, portland, or - climate chart.

Washington Park is the premiere outdoor space in Portland. Among its 410 acres are several of the city's signature tourist attractions. This impressive lineup includes the Oregon Zoo , the Portland International Rose Test Garden , the Hoyt Arboretum , and the Portland Japanese Garden .

And lush landscapes are found throughout every other acre of the park, displaying the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Parking is potentially a challenge at Washington Park. The best way to visit is via public transportation or bicycle. TriMet's MAX Blue or Red line has an underground stop within the park, and line 63 has a bus stop right outside the International Rose Test Garden.

Once at the park, the Washington Park Free Shuttle offers daily service throughout the year.

The Portland International Rose Test Garden exemplifies Portland's status as the City of Roses . This vast garden contains over 10,000 individual roses, with over 600 varieties. It also has a fascinating history as a haven for European hybrid roses during World War I. And today, it's one of the signature attractions of Portland's Washington Park .

The best time to visit the Portland Rose Garden is between May and September, when the flowers bloom. It's genuinely an eyeful this time of year, with clean-cut landscaping and rows upon rows of different colored petals.

Admission is free, and donations are appreciated.

Friends of Washington Park International Rose Test Garden helps maintain the flowers and offers volunteer opportunities.

Official site: https://waparkrosefriends.org/

The Portland Japanese Garden is a serene place to spend the day in Washington Park. A Cultural Village and eight distinct garden styles are within its 12 acres, all with a tranquil undertone. Several paths wind throughout the space, through ornamental landscaping and the harmonious blend of nature and intentional design.

There's a fee to visit the Portland Japanese Garden, and guided tours are available for extra insight into the surroundings.

The gardens are home to other amenities, including the Japanese Arts Learning Center and the popular Umami Cafe .

Official site: https://japanesegarden.org/

The Pittock Mansion is a historic home high in the hills above Northwest Portland. Henry and Georginia Pittock moved into their newly built home in 1914. The couple's wealth came from a career of city building and time spent as the publisher of the burgeoning Oregonian newspaper – still read throughout the city today.

The Pittock Mansion today is a living history museum with a spectacular view of the city. Exhibits throughout the house paint the picture of Portland's transformation from a pioneer town to the modern metropolis it is today. Only self-guided tours are available, with access to nearly all 23 antique-filled rooms.

The grounds of Pittock Mansion are worth a visit alone, and are free to tour.

Take some time to enjoy the generous views that spurred the construction of the house in the first place, including the city, the Willamette River, and the Cascade mountains on the horizon.

Official site: https://pittockmansion.org/

Portland is home to one of the most extensive urban forests in the country. The aptly named Forest Park encompasses a remarkable 5,200 acres on the city's northwest side. This amount of space is roughly six times the size of Central Park in New York City. And this vast, nearly untouched Pacific Northwest terrain offers a true escape into nature within city limits.

More than 80 miles of trails navigate through Forest Park, connecting over 40 access points. The Wildwood Trail is one common thoroughfare spanning the entire park. Blue blazes line this 30.2-mile National Recreation Trail that connects with several other popular paths. A map or reliable GPS is recommended for exploring its depths.

Read More: Best Hiking Trails near Portland

Powell's Books is an absolute institution of Portland. Its flagship downtown location encompasses nearly an entire city block. It also houses thousands upon thousands of new and used titles comingled on the shelves. Perusing this bountiful collection can take a full day or a lifetime for those that enjoy a comprehensive library.

Several Staff Picks and comfy sitting areas aid in the literary exploration.

Powell's Books is also the place for literary events, like author readings and writers' workshops. There is also an on-site coffee shop for light fare and comfortable reading space.

Powell's has three locations total, with another famous shop on Hawthorne Street on the other side of the Willamette River.

The Portland Art Museum, founded in late 1892, is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest and one of the oldest in the country. And today, it's an anchor of the downtown district next to South Park Blocks .

The museum's collection comprises over 50,000 objects spread across two buildings and 112,000 square feet of galleries. A primary focus is art from Indigenous cultures of North America, as well as Western and Northwest Art from the last two centuries.

Also displayed is a vast collection of graphic art, English silver, and photography.

Official site: https://portlandartmuseum.org/

Crystal Springs is a lovely nine-acre park in Southeast Portland. The park encompasses two peninsulas jutting into Crystal Springs Lake . Beautiful rhododendrons and azaleas, among other decorative shrubs, line nearly every inch of this landscaped space.

The best time to visit for rhododendrons is between February and July, with typically the biggest bloom from late April through early May.

It's a $5 admission for adults at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. Parking is limited at the gardens. TriMet bus #19 makes a stop near the entrance.

Pioneer Courthouse Square, dubbed Portland's Living Room , is at the downtown core and is always bustling with activity.

Portland's trains and buses converge at this urban park, as do a collection of food trucks at its fringes. And chances are, especially in the summer, some live music echoes off the tall buildings surrounding Courthouse Square.

Pioneer Courthouse Square hosts over 300 events each year, including primarily free concerts for the public to enjoy. The Noon Tune concert series is a free concert not to miss, occurring during the Tuesday and Thursday lunch hour throughout the summer. Flicks on the Bricks also takes place on Friday evenings this time of year, featuring free admission and popcorn.

Official site: https://www.thesquarepdx.org/

Portland Saturday Market has been a long-held tradition since its founding in 1974. What started as grassroots efforts between local artists has now become the largest continuously operated open-air craft market in the United States . It also is one of the most visited attractions in the city.

Portland Saturday Market takes place only on Saturdays between March and December. It concludes its season on Christmas Eve and a week-long "Festival of the Last Minute."

The market today occurs at Waterfront Park in historic Old Town, spanning from beneath the Burnside Bridge. The market takes place all day between 10am and 5pm.

Official site: https://www.portlandsaturdaymarket.com/

Food trucks add significant flavors to the Portland culinary scene, with an estimated 500 mobile purveyors lining the streets.

These counter-service restaurants prefer the name "food cart" in Portland, and many stick together in groups called pods spread across the city. These pods offer a food court experience, with several vendors at the ready and plenty of community seating.

With several food cart pods throughout the city, some of the largest include Cartlandia , Cartopia , and Hawthorne Asylum . Expect international flavors wherever you go and a wide array of menu options.

Most food carts accept credit cards, though not all, and bringing a little cash may help avoid any ATM fees.

Laurelhurst Park is a lovely 30-acre public space in East Portland, near the intersection of Stark Street and Cesar Chavez Boulevard.

It has a century-long history as a city park, with roots dating back to the famous Olmstead Brothers landscaping firm. And the city park today has matured into one of the most lovely outdoor spots on the eastside.

The large Firwood Lake tends to be a magnet for park visitors – and resident ducks. But the whole park is wonderfully landscaped, with plenty of shade-producing trees and lawn connected by hiking trails.

The park is also home to a popular playground area for young children.

Sauvie Island is the largest island in the Columbia River and one of the largest river islands in the country . And located just northwest of city limits, it's also one of the most popular day trips from Portland .

The rural and wildlife refuge landscape lends to several outdoor activities, but escaping the city bustle is always a defining tone of any visit.

Among the many things to do on Sauvie Island are bicycling, hiking, bird-watching, boating, and spending the day at the beach. The island's entire northeast coast comprises sandy real estate, including the popular Walton Beach , also known as Sauvie Island Beach.

The island is also home to several U-pick orchards , with seasons typically starting in late spring or early summer.

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16 Best Things to Do in Portland, Oregon

By Jen Stevenson

United States Oregon Portland Park Jamison Square

Whether you’ve ventured to the Rose City in search of outdoor adventure, cutting-edge culture, bohemian boutique shopping, or to dabble in the myriad epicurean delights the city for which the city is famous, Portland has it all—and it's sales tax-free, to boot (make that a Danner boot, our hometown hero since 1932). Spend a day in Washington Park, weaving your way through the International Rose Test Garden’s fragrant natives, or forest bathing with a genmaicha and manju chaser in the Portland Japanese Garden’s striking new teahouse; shop for chanterelles and filberts like a local at the bustling year-round Portland Farmers Market; don a green and gold scarf and shout yourself hoarse alongside the Timbers Army at Providence Park; get good and lost in the million-spines-strong stacks at Powell’s City of Books; and do a little craft beer and spirits sampling along the inner eastside industrial district’s well-traveled ale trail and Distillery Row. As any besotted native will tell you, this is the good (and very, very green) life. Read on for our picks for what to do in Portland.

Click the link to read our complete Portland city guide.

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Defining the Portland skyline, Forest Park is a nearly 5,200-acre expanse of deep, dense, Pacific Northwest forest—one of the largest urban green spaces in the country. It's criss-crossed with more than 80 miles of trails and forest roads, so you can hike, bike, run, and walk tas far as you like, all without ever leaving the city limits. Although the park wasn’t officially established until 1948, the idea of preserving the space as a “forest park” was originally proposed in 1903 by landscape architects John and Frederick Olmsted—sons of Frederick Law Olmsted, co-designer of New York's Central Park . Trail markers are relatively clear as you meander through canyons, follow babbling Balch Creek, and cross major roads like NW Cornell and Burnside, but for best results, download a map or purchase a guide from the Forest Park Conservancy or at Powell’s .

United States Oregon Portland Garden Portland Japanese Garden

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Dotted with vivid Japanese maples in fall, delicate pearl-pink weeping cherry trees in spring, fairytale-worthy bridges, shimmering pools teeming with koi, and traditional structures like the Kashintei Tea House, the Portland Japanese Garden feels like another, far more serene, dimension. But don’t just take it from us. Even Nobuo Matsunaga, former Japanese Ambassador, declared it “the most beautiful and authentic Japanese garden in the world outside of Japan.” Your main objective here is to spend at least an hour, preferably two, strolling the gently curved pathways and just generally blissing out. City sightseeing can be intense, so if you need a break from the downtown bustle, this is the place to have a moment of Zen—not to mention a birds'-eye view of downtown from the Pavilion garden.

United States Oregon Portland Shop The Spartan Shop

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You’ll want everything in Spartan Shop, a gorgeous Grand Avenue fish bowl filled with luxurious handcrafted homewares. Natural light pours through huge west-facing picture windows, and the spare surfaces hold treasures design-lovers will swoon over: oversized azure blue vases by New York ceramicist Judy Jackson, smoky black jewel vases by Danish interior designer Louise Roe, Thompson Street Studios’ handsewn abstract quilted pillows, and ethereal hand-hammered brass tea scoops from Japan. If you want first dibs on in-demand new merch, follow the shop on Instagram , where Currie Person first announces fresh shipments of Japanese tortoise shell lighters and BDB stack sculptures.

United States Oregon Portland Athletic Park Providence Park

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Home to the Portland Timbers, Portland Thorns, and Portland Vikings, this historic stadium, built in 1893, has seen a lot in its day—from cricket matches and ski jumping competitions to a hysteria-inducing 1957 Elvis concert. If you’re in town on a Timbers game day, don’t be surprised to stumble into a sea of green-and-gold scarf–wrapped residents marching resolutely toward Providence Park—team spirit runs high for Portland’s beloved Major League Soccer team. With a few exceptions, it’s hard to find a bad seat here. But for many, especially the non-soccer-savvy, the best seats are less about sight lines and more about proximity to the Timbers Army, which makes for a very good time on game day, whoever wins or loses.

United States Oregon Portland Zoo Oregon Zoo

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Home to nearly 3,000 animals—including 19 endangered species—the 64-acre Oregon Zoo is so thoroughly landscaped with native plants that it blends seamlessly into the lush Washington Park landscape surrounding it. Put on your walking shoes before you head through the front gates, because you’re going to cover some serious ground as you weave through the 23 engaging exhibits, divided into five major themed areas: the Great Northwest, Pacific Shores, Discovery Zone, Africa, and the spectacular six-acre Elephant Lands. The sleek, slippery, and ever-playful North American river otters are riveting, the Penguinarium offers some of the best bird-watching ever; the Insect Zoo will entertain bug buffs for hours, and you mustn’t miss Zawadi, Kya, and Neka, the trio of lions that rule the Predators of the Serengeti roost.

United States Oregon Portland Farmer's Market Portland Farmer's Market

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The pride and joy of this food-obsessed city , Portland’s seriously next-level farmers market (every Saturday, rain or shine) fills the Portland State University campus with 200 rotating vendors that sell the region’s best produce, pastured eggs, grass-fed meat, freshly baked goods, artisan cheese and charcuterie, craft chocolate, and other edible bounty. If you believe in shopping locally and sustainably and supporting small business owners, farmers, and artisan producers, it doesn’t get any closer to the source than this. Fall brings gorgeous gourds and crisp Oregon heirloom varietals from Old World Apples. Those long cold winter nights call for slow-stewed grass-fed SuDan Farm lamb and roasted root vegetables. In spring, grab bunches of tender young asparagus and thick stalks of rosy rhubarb from Winters Farms. And come summer, go nuts—bunches of little gem lettuces, ripe heirloom tomatoes, Hood River cherries, drippy, orange-fleshed Charentais melons, and Baird Family Orchard’s incomparably sweet and juicy peaches.

United States Oregon Portland Park International Rose Test Garden

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A visit to the Rose City without a stop at the Rose Garden is sacrilege. If your timing’s off to catch the more than 10,000 bushes in their full glory (they bloom April through October and peak in June), the expansive views and general splendor of the nearly-five-acre garden are still worth a visit, even in the dead of winter. Founded in 1917 to help preserve European hybrid roses people feared would be lost to persistent World War I bombing raids, the garden flourished, and has since helped firmly embed its beautiful tenants in Portland’s cultural identity. Seek out the serene Shakespeare Garden, hidden behind heavy hedges on the south end of the park, below the Rose Garden Store. It's planted exclusively with flowers, herbs, and trees named in his plays.

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Jamison Square has been a neighborhood fixture since 2000, when the Pearl District was just beginning to transform into the trendy, highrise-lined shopping and dining destination it is today. Positioned between the Portland Streetcar lines that run along NW 10th and 11th streets, the park was part of early plans to revitalize the neighborhood, and the first of three open spaces created by PWP Landscape Architecture, the firm that also designed the National 9/11 Memorial in New York . Today, it’s a bustling social hub that welcomes a steady stream of dog-walking residents and visitors drawn to its artwork. The park’s most famous feature is its fountain, which mimics a tidal pool. Then, of course, there are the four 30-foot Technicolor aluminum totem poles flanking the park edges; also known as the Tikitotemoniki Totems, they’re a 2001 abstract art installation by artist Kenny Scharf. If you look closely, you’ll see that they double as covers for the Portland Streetcar’s wire poles.

United States Oregon Portland Shop Powell's City of Books

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Third-generation-owned Powell’s City of Books occupies an entire city block on busy West Burnside. When the Powells founded their (now-iconic) family business in 1971, they had a simple, straightforward business model: put new and used hardcover and paperback titles all on the same shelf, stay open 365 days a year, and only hire people who were truly, madly, and deeply in love with books. Today it is world’s largest new and used bookstore, with nearly a million books in stock. Like most landmarks, Powell’s flagship Burnside store offers free behind-the-scenes tours; they’re first come, first served, 45 minutes long, and held every Sunday at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The shop also hosts some of the world’s most renowned authors in the Pearl Room’s Basil Hallward Gallery; check the events calendar to see who’s reading during your stay. Some of the better known authors read at the Cedar Hills Crossing store, so double check the location.

United States Oregon Portland Shop Providore Fine Foods

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Part gourmet grocery, part food hall, part farmers market, Providore Fine Foods is an impeccably merchandised culinary Eden that grabs your attention from the get-go. In addition to the main grocery shelves of anchor tenant Pastaworks, which offer up everything from cut-to-order fresh pasta and delicate triple creams, to rare imported oils and passion fruit puree, the space houses a collective of purveyors, all at the top of their game. Flying Fish Company/The Meat Mongers sell sustainably sourced local seafood, meat, eggs, and dairy and acclaimed Southeast bakery Little T stocks just-baked breads and pastries. The fun’s not over once you’ve canvassed the entire shop—go out the back door, immediately turn left, step up to the bright-yellow Arrosto window, and order the half- or whole-bird chicken dinner, complete with juicy free-range rotisserie chicken basted in lemon-and-rosemary oil and sides of creamy Yukon Golds roasted in chicken drippings, perfectly bitter radicchio-and-escarole salad with lemon-anchovy dressing, and thick, springy fingers of fresh-baked focaccia from the Pastaworks bakery.

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You could spend days exploring Washington Park, a spectacular 410-acre city park that's one of Portland’s oldest and most beautiful. Easily accessible from downtown Portland, it’s home to major attractions like the International Rose Test Garden . There are also three deeply moving memorials within the park—the Oregon Holocaust Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial, as well as the bronze statue depicting Sacagawea holding her son Jean-Baptiste. If you’re in the mood for less sightseeing and more action, hit the free first-come, first-serve archery range, tennis courts, and soccer field, or let the kids run amok at the playground. Whenever you visit, Hoyt Arboretum is a marvel. Encompassing nearly 200 ridge-top acres, it has 12 miles of meandering hiking trails and more than 2,000 species of plants and trees, both native and international.

United States Oregon Portland Garden Lan Su Chinese Garden

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A world away from the busy, gritty Old Town/Chinatown neighborhood surrounding it, Lan Su, a sublimely peaceful garden, is a collaboration with Portland’s Chinese sister city Suzhou, famous for its stunning Ming Dynasty gardens. The ornate structures and exquisitely landscaped courtyards offer a glimpse into the life of a wealthy and prominent 16th-century Chinese family; the delicately carved gingko panels, intricate stone mosaics, and koi lake are a seamless union of design, nature, architecture, and art. As you stroll the pebbled paths, watch for some of the garden’s unique features: Taihu, chunks of heavily eroded limestone farmed from Suzhou’s freshwater Lake Tai, and the 51 different patterned windows embedded in the garden walls. Plan time for a peaceful pot of oolong and and a plate of lotus-seed mooncakes in the Tower of Cosmic Reflections, an authentic two-story tearoom overlooking the 8,000-square-foot Lake Zither.

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Combining the talents and passions of ceramicist and art collector Patty Merrill and interior designer Bridgid Blackburn, this emporium’s tagline is “purveyors of curious objects,” and that’s putting things mildly—walk up the steep stairs into the unassuming historic inner eastside warehouse and into what feels like a treasure hunter’s fever dream, particularly if you’re a seeker of rare, handcrafted, meaningfully-made, and sustainably-sourced textiles, jewelry, and home decor. While much of the inventory hails from distant lands like India, Israel, Bali , Vietnam , and Guatemala, there’s plenty of local artisan presence too, both on shelves and via the pop-ups nested within the store.

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Owned and run by husband-wife team Jocelyn and Robert Rahm, this lovingly renovated 7000-square-foot former industrial warehouse turned design showroom is exactly what you’d imagine a Portland home decor haven should be, with raw concrete floors covered in soft Navajo rugs, white-washed brick and warm wood walls, and ceiling beams strung with delicate bundles of dried flowers. If your pocketbook is bottomless, there’s plenty to fall in lust with here; airy cross-backed Japanese washed linen aprons made in France by Linge Particulier, velvety hand-loomed Peruvian alpaca throws, and burnished Oregon maple bowls almost too pretty to put anything. But even if you're on a budget it would be a shame to leave without some souvenir of what you may otherwise think you just dreamt. How about a pair of pale pink Chroma drinking glasses to host your evening wine pour?

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From its easy online booking process to its carefully plotted routes, this bike tour company is all pro, without sacrificing the laid back, keep-Portland-weird vibe the city is so proud of. Routes, all designated as beginner-level and spanning roughly three hours and around ten miles, are gentle and perfectly-paced and guides are conscious of each rider’s skill level, so whether you’re a bit wobbly on your wheels or a retired Tour de France rider, you're in for a good time. Guides are clearly hired for their people skills as well as their easy-flowing knowledge of the Rose City, so the overall vibe is that of taking an informal city tour with a fun and confident friend who knows just about everything; the best breweries , restaurants , coffeehouses and landmarks both famous and little known. They even how to cut the omnipresent line at Voodoo Doughnut.

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Approaching the eastern end of SE Division Street’s commercial core, past the seemingly omnipresent queue outside Salt & Straw ice cream shop and sausage-slinging Olympia Provisions ’ merry, fire pit-warmed patio, as the foot traffic thins and the neighborhood’s original turn-of-the-century bungalows start to reappear in the cracks between condominium buildings, a trim yellow house peeks out from behind a neatly manicured front yard—this is not someone’s darling little Southeast sanctuary, it’s your new favorite beer garden. The brewery has four excellent flagship beers, from the fresh and bright Bes tart wheat ale, brewed with Belgian malts, fruity Lemondrop hops, and chamomile flowers, to the rich and earthy Animal Family, fermented for six months in a Cabernet Sauvignon foeder (i.e. very large barrel). But be sure to try whatever seasonal specials are on tap, like the terrifically tart Pomme Sour, conditioned with fresh quince.

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21 Best Things To Do In Portland, Oregon (2024 Guide)

Last Updated: February 4, 2024

From food trucks and breweries to parks, waterfalls, wineries, and more, here are the best things to do in Portland, Oregon!

Portland is one of those cities that has a laid back and relaxing charm but is absolutely jam-packed with fun things to do.

There is so much greenery to enjoy, so nature lovers will feel right at home. There are multiple landscaped gardens and parks within the city center, and there are gorges, mountains, and waterfalls right outside downtown Portland.

You can laze away the day sipping wine at a vineyard, browsing through a bookstore, or meandering around a museum.

But if you want to engage in the excitement of Portland, you can also go brewery touring and bar hopping, and or check out a street market or live music performance.

There is honestly so much fun to be had in Portland. With a thriving arts culture, numerous distinct neighborhoods with unique local businesses, and lots of incredible food and nightlife, you will never be bored here.

Planning to spend a weekend in the city? Check out our detailed 3-Day Portland Itinerary !

Table of Contents

1) Explore Forest Park

2) admire the historic pittock mansion , 3) go wine tasting in the willamette valley, 4) visit the portland art museum, 5) spend the day at columbia river gorge, 6) indulge in portland’s best sweets, 7) explore the alberta arts district, 8) ski, snowboard, or hike on mount hood, 9) hang out in pioneer courthouse square, 10) embark on a food tour of portland, 11) take a photo of portland’s most iconic sign, 12) spend some time in the pearl district, 13) cruise along the willamette river, 14) wander around old town chinatown, 15) browse through powell’s city of books, 16) admire the roses and greenery in washington park, 17) find peace in the portland japanese garden, 18) tour a brewery, 19) enjoy tom mccall waterfront park, 20) eat your heart out at food trucks, 21) ride the portland aerial tram, best hostel in portland: hi portland, best mid-range hotel in portland: bluebird guesthouse, best luxury hotel in portland: the nines, the best things to do in portland oregon.

Whether you are visiting Portland for a day, a week, or a month, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to activities, museums, hikes, restaurants, day trips, parks, and more.

Portland even has some special attractions that you never would have expected to find here.

For example, Portland is home to some of the USA’s most authentic Japanese Gardens, as well as one of the country’s oldest art museums.

It also has the world’s largest independently-owned bookstore, some of the Pacific Northwest’s best ice cream, and is one of the only cities in the USA with an aerial tram.

So aside from your usual attractions, some Portland points of interest are impressive beyond belief.

Let’s get into this exciting list of the best things to do in Portland!

At just over 5,000 acres, Forest Park is one of the country’s biggest urban forests. This sprawling green space in the Tualatin Mountains is located just west of downtown Portland.

Full of hiking trails, wildlife, fresh air, and lots of greenery, Forest Park is the perfect escape from the city. Wildwood Trail and Lower Macleay Trail are two of the most popular walking trails that are easily accessible from the city center.

You can also stop by the Nature Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary run by the Portland Audubon Society while exploring Forest Park.

A highlight of the park is Witch’s Castle . This run-down stone dwelling covered in moss and vines dates back to the 1850s.

Though it was originally a house, and there are plenty of local stories about the home’s history, it’s just an abandoned building next to the riverbank now.

But Witch’s Castle looks like something out of a folk tale or a ghost story, so it’s a cool spot to check out while exploring Forest Park. The walk there is easy, and there is free parking all throughout the park.

Related: Be sure to read this post on great day trips from Portland !

While walking along the Wildwood Trail in Forest Park, or while wondering what to see in Portland, stop by the Pittock Mansion.

This giant, majestic mansion sporting French Renaissance architecture is one of the top Portland tourist attractions.

Complete with 46 rooms, antique furniture, and an early 1900s elevator that still works, a tour of this mansion is just fascinating.

Located atop West Hills, the Pittock Mansion offers a stunning view of downtown Portland, so be sure to admire the views outside after touring the inside.

The Pittock Mansion was originally the home of Henry Pittock, a newspaper publisher, investor, and lover of the outdoors.

Construction of the home began in 1912 and was finished in 1914.

After being damaged in a storm in 1962, Portland’s citizens rallied together to raise money to restore the Pittock Mansion and turn it into a historic museum.

You can read more details about the history and story behind the Pittock Mansion on the official website .

Address: 3229 NW Pittock Dr
Hours: 10am – 4pm (open at noon on Tuesdays, close a 5pm in summer)
Cost: $12 Adult, $10 Seniors, $8 Youth, Children under 6 FREE

One of the best things to do in Portland is take a day trip to the Willamette Valley. Also known as Oregon Wine Country , this charming rural region south of downtown Portland has lots of amazing wineries and vineyards.

The area is known for its world-class Pinot Noir, and you can do some wine tastings at one of the 500+ wineries in the valley.

There is also lots of high quality, organic, delicious food to try out here. Many wineries and local restaurants pride themselves on their farm-to-table cuisine, so treat yourself to a day of eating and drinking some fresh local cuisine.

One of the top tourist attractions in downtown Portland is this fantastic art museum. Founded in 1892, the Portland Art Museum is the seventh oldest art museum in the USA (and one of the oldest on the west coast).

The Portland Art Museum showcases a variety of pieces from all over the world. However, the focus is on Native American art from the Pacific Northwest.

The displays of art and artifacts showcased from these cultures are incredible.

With constantly changing special exhibitions and films, the Portland Art Museum always has something new and exciting for visitors.

You can also check out the museum store to purchase some souvenirs from local artists and support their work, or hang out in the sculpture garden.

Although it is a popular tourist attraction, the Portland Art Museum is so much more than that. It is a celebration of diverse communities and how art and film can unite us all.

Address: 1219 SW Park Ave
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 5pm
Cost: $25 Adults, Seniors $22, Kids 17 and under FREE

One of the most gorgeous places of natural beauty in the Pacific Northwest is the Columbia River Gorge.

Located just 30 miles east of Portland along the Historic Columbia River Highway, this spot is one of the most photographed National Scenic Reserves in the USA.

The gorge consists of a canyon near the Columbia River that stretches down to around 4,000 feet deep. Around the canyon are hiking trails, waterfalls, forests, mountains, and stunning natural sights.

One of the best things to do in the area is hike the Wahkeena Falls Loop Trail. This 5-mile hiking trail passes 6 waterfalls, including the gorgeous and popular Multnomah Falls . The Multnomah Falls Lodge is a gorgeous historic lodge right near the falls, so consider spending the night here if you have time!

If you don’t have a car to get you out here, you can book a guided tour from Portland.

While sightseeing in Portland Oregon, there is no better way to treat yourself than indulging in some heavenly desserts.

Portland’s food scene is top-notch, and there are a few dessert spots that are famous among locals in the city.

The first notable sweet shop is Salt and Straw , arguably the best ice cream shop in all of Oregon.

Though it first opened in northwest Portland in 2011, this artisan ice cream shop has gathered such a fan base that it has spread to multiple locations around the USA.

Their seasonal flavors using local ingredients are crazy. You can stick to the basics, but definitely sample a few of the more unexpected flavours.

Voodoo Doughnuts is another Portland classic. The famous shop opened in downtown Portland in 2003, and became so popular that it has also spread to multiple US states.

Here you can taste outrageous flavors of doughnuts and baked goods, all of which are decorated flawlessly enough for Instagram.

Other less famous but still amazing sweet shops in Portland include Ken’s Artisan Bakery for croissants, cookies, and other classic treats, and Papa Haydn for the most incredible cakes in the city.

If you have a real sweet tooth, hitting up some of these spots is one of the best things to do in Portland!

Traveling more of the Pacific Coast? Check out this 3 Days in Seattle Itinerary .

One of the highlights of Northeast Portland, and a must-see for art lovers, the Alberta Arts District is one of the coolest spots in the city.

Full of street art, boutique shops, art galleries, and some of the best Portland restaurants, this lively and colorful corner of the city is packed with entertainment and culture.

The best part of the area is the Last Thursday event . On the last Thursday of every month, Alberta Street fills up with vendors, local businesses, and non-profit organizations coming together to celebrate art, culture, and diversity.

Last Thursdays run year-round, but there is more happening in Summer when the weather is nice. From May to September there is usually an outdoor art fair and live music and performances to see. The Last Thursday event usually runs from 4pm to 9pm.

Oregon’s highest mountain is located just 50 miles east of the Portland city center, making it extremely accessible. If you love hiking, skiing, snowboarding, or just being in nature, a visit to Mount Hood is a must!

You can see the snowy peak of Mount Hood from most places in downtown Portland, but the mountain and its surrounding meadows and forests make for the perfect day trip from the city.

There are six ski areas to visit if you’re looking to ski or snowboard, otherwise there are lots of hikes, camping spots, and rivers for fishing or canoeing.

For the ultimate day trip from Portland, book a tour of Mount Hood combined with Columbia River Gorge and wine tasting.

As the heart of downtown Portland, chances are you’ll pass through Pioneer Courthouse Square on a day of sightseeing.

The square is often referred to as “Portland’s Living Room” because the entire city block is just an open space dedicated to community gatherings.

There is always something happening in the square, from festivals and events, to pop up concerts, live music, art shows, and more.

Visit the official website for Pioneer Courthouse Square so you can see what’s on when you visit Portland.

There’s no better way to engage with the culture and community of Portland than stopping by a local event in the heart of the city center.

This article on the best things to do in Portland definitely emphasizes the amazing food and drinks in the city. But there is so much incredible food in Portland that this list has only scratched the surface.

From food trucks and cafes to doughnut shops, brewpubs, rooftop restaurants, dive bars, and more, the food scene in Portland is outstanding.

If you’re a real foodie, consider going on a guided food tour of Portland Oregon. A local guide will take you on a walking tour of this fabulous city and show you all the best eateries. This is a super fun way to learn about Portland’s thriving culinary scene.

Two popular local tour companies that offer food walking tours are the Lost Plate and Eat Adventures .

Looking for other great activities in the Pacific Northwest? Check out this post on all the best things to do in Seattle !

Another one of the best things to do in Portland is visit the “Keep Portland Weird” sign .

Painted in downtown Portland in 2003 on Burnside Street, this giant mural is popular among tourists, travel bloggers, and even locals. “Keep Portland Weird” has become the unofficial city motto because it celebrates quirkiness and individuality.

The slogan was intended to help support small local businesses and has actually taken off and become an iconic part of the city center.

Location: 350 W Burnside Street

The Pearl District is one of Portland’s most popular neighborhoods. It has an industrial look with renovated warehouses and red brick buildings, but the cobblestone streets and unique local businesses make the area feel homey.

With plenty of breweries, art galleries, cafes, and a wide variety of different shops, there is so much to see and do here.

The Pearl District is also one of the top spots for enjoying Portland’s nightlife, as there are lots of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.

The Willamette River flows through Portland for 17 miles, making it an important natural landmark of the city.

From waterfront parks, to scenic bridges, to all the fishing, swimming, and kayaking opportunities, the river is a beloved part of Portland for locals and tourists.

One of the best ways to enjoy the river and explore downtown Portland is by booking a river cruise . There is no better way to spend an evening than cruising down the river at sunset, admiring the sights of downtown and having dinner and drinks.

Check prices for a river cruise on Get Your Guide .

Exploring the Old Town Chinatown is easily one of the best things to do in Portland. Dating back to the 1880s, Portland’s Chinatown is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.

While it used to house mainly just Chinese businesses, the area is a lot more diverse and modern today. There are lots of shops, cafes, and bars, and there are still plenty of traditional teahouses and Chinese shops.

A highlight of Chinatown is the Shanghai Tunnels . The 150-year-old Shanghai Tunnels are passageways that run underneath the city.

They used to act as easy transport routes for goods, and now they are just a cool tourist attraction.

The Lan Su Chinese Garden is another highlight of Chinatown. Stroll through here to admire the Chinese plants, flowers, and architecture.

After enjoying the authentic Chinese gardens, stop in the tea house for a hot drink.

Portland’s Chinatown is also home to the Pine Street Market , a food hall with lots of options for eating and drinking. The market opens every day at 11am and is open until 8pm (10pm on weekends) and is closed Monday and Tuesday.

Located on the northern side of downtown Portland is Powell’s City of Books, one of the top Portland attractions for locals and tourists alike.

Whether you want to shop for some good reads or just browse, this is a fun place to spend an afternoon.

Powell’s City of Books is the largest independent bookstore in the world. It is packed with roughly one million books, including new, used, and rare ones. They also sell journals, notebooks, and games.

Browsing through this gigantic bookstore is one of the best Portland activities on a rainy day. Find a full list of the books they have in stock on their website .

Address: 1005 W Burnside St
Hours: 10am – 9pm Daily

One of the best things to do in Portland is explore Washington Park. Located in southwest Portland and accessible via public transport, Washington Park has plenty of attractions to keep the whole family entertained for a day.

There are lots of nice biking, walking, and cycling trails, as well as picnic spaces and the World Forestry Center.

You can also find the Oregon Zoo in Washington Park, which is a fun place to bring children. The Oregon Zoo is home to over 2,000 animal species and focuses on conservation and animal welfare.

A highlight of Washington Park is the International Rose Test Garden . Covering about 4.5 acres, and home to over 550 varieties of roses, the International Rose Test Garden attracts visitors from all over the state and the country.

There is even a rare miniature rose garden and a Shakespeare Garden.

It is a true urban oasis of color, with gorgeous roses blooming brilliantly in landscaped gardens. Visit the public Rose Test Garden from May through September for the best blooms.

Side note: if you’re a big fan of roses, consider attending the annual Portland Rose Festival held in June each year!

Read next: 21 Best Things to Do in Denver, Colorado

Within Washington Park lies another one of the city’s best attractions: the Portland Japanese Garden. These authentic Japanese Gardens deserved their own point because they are one of the best sights in Portland.

Full of landscaped gardens, waterfalls, streams, bridges, and more, a stroll through this area is a gorgeous way to spend an afternoon. The gardens are particularly stunning in fall when the leaves on the trees change colors.

The Portland Japanese Garden is also home to a traditional Japanese teahouse called Umami Cafe. Stop in here for a matcha or a tea after exploring the gardens.

Portland is often rated the best beer city in the USA. There are many unique brewpubs scattered around the city, and a day spent touring them all and tasting beers is one of the best things to do in Portland.

Portland is known for its craft beers and IPAs, so you’re in for a treat if you like those. Backwoods Brewing Company and Deschutes Brewery in the Pearl District are two local favorites, as is Stormbreaker Brewing on Mississippi Ave.

Great Notion Brewery in the Alberta Arts District is another great option that has more unique beer flavors to try.

Breakside Brewing is also great, and it even won a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival. Migration Brewing and Ecliptic Brewing are two more options.

If you can’t decide which breweries to hit, consider booking a guided craft brewery walking tour . A knowledgeable local guide will take you to all the best spots so you can just relax and enjoy your beers without having to decide where to go!

On the western banks of the River Willamette lies Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This sprawling green space is home to more amazing Portland attractions.

Go for a stroll along the Waterfront Park Trail or stop inside the Oregon Maritime Museum to learn about the history of the Oregon Coast.

Also check out the Salmon Street Springs Fountain, a popular landmark, or the Japanese American Historical Plaza which marks the spot of the old Japantown in Portland.

Another highlight of the park is the Portland Saturday Market . Between March and December, Tom McCall Waterfront Park is home to one of the largest arts and crafts markets in the USA.

Here you can chat with local merchants, browse through all the handicrafts, and pick up some special souvenirs.

If you’re visiting Portland in spring, you also have to check out the cherry blossom trees in the park.

At the right time of year, the trees along the waterfront burst into bloom, with bright pink flowers towering over the walkways.

The cherry blossoms are some of the best things to see in Portland in spring!

Read next: The Perfect 3 Days in San Fransisco Itinerary

One of the coolest things about Portland is the abundance of food trucks. Most cities will maybe have one or two food markets that pop up occasionally, but Portland has lots of outdoor food markets that are open daily.

Commonly called “food truck pods”, these open-air food markets are full of international cuisines.

Locals frequent them on their lunch breaks, and tourists love to sample all the different cuisines available.

Some of the best food cart pods include:

5th Avenue Food Cart Pod, open daily 11am – 8pm
Hawthorne Asylum Food Carts, open daily 8am – 9:30pm
Prost Marketplace, open daily 11am – 2:30am
3rd Avenue Food Cart Pod, open Mon-Fri 9am – 4pm

If you’re looking for some affordable, delicious food, the food truck pods are some of the best places to visit in Portland!

Opened in 2007, the Portland Aerial Tram is an interesting part of the city’s framework.

It was originally built to connect Oregon Health and Science University Main Campus with the south waterfront.

The city introduced the tram to improve traffic flow because the road traffic used to be problematic for ambulances, students, and staff traveling to and from the main campus.

Portland is now one of only a handful of US cities with an aerial commuter tram. The scenic tram ride offers beautiful views of Mount Hood and the waterfront and is a fun way to get around.

Currently, due to COVID-19, the tram has been limited for essential use to the OHSU only. However, as the country continues to improve its handling of the pandemic, it’s possible the tram may reopen for recreational use. Check the website for updates!

Where to Stay in Portland

Now that you know what to do in Portland, here are some of the best places to stay. No matter which area of the city your Portland itinerary takes you, there are plenty of accommodation options scattered throughout the city center and beyond.

Without a doubt, the best hostel in Portland Oregon is HI Portland , a member of Hostelling International. It is located in the Northwest District near lots of cafes, bars, and attractions, though it may be hard to leave the hostel with all the amenities they offer!

Complete with an in-house cafe, a firepit, courtyard, live music, and plenty of cozy common areas, this is the best place to mingle with other travelers and make some friends when you visit Portland.

The hostel has a 9.6/10 rating with over 3,000 reviews on Hostelworld! Dorms start at 38 USD per night.

Located in southeast Portland, the Bluebird Guesthouse is a cozy and affordable place to stay. This locally run inn is set in a historic building and offers continental breakfast to its guests.

It’s far enough away from downtown Portland to be quiet and peaceful, but it’s still convenient to get to all the Portland attractions.

This corner of southeast Portland has a beautiful green space called Mount Tabor Park, and it’s walking distance from the Oregon Museum of Science.

A queen room starts out at around 130 USD per night.

The Nines Luxury Hotel is one of the top-rated 5 star hotels in Portland Oregon. With decadent rooms, city views, and tons of amenities, this fabulous hotel has everything you could ever need.

It’s also in a great location, just between Downtown and Chinatown. All the best museums and attractions are within walking distance.

Rooms start at around 330 USD per night.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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30 Best Things to Do in Portland, Oregon + Map

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With so many things to do in Portland, Oregon , it’s no wonder why it’s among the top 10 most popular cities in the United States. However, the reason why I love the so-called City of Roses is because it’s one of the most environmentally conscious cities in the world and one of the quirkiest too!

When I was deciding what to do in Oregon, I knew I had to experience the hip urban feel of downtown Portland, OR . Yet, I also wanted to see the natural beauty of the nearby forests and mountains. So, I did both, and now I’m ready to share the best places to visit in Portland.

I recommend planning a few days to see all that this metropolis has to offer. With its eclectic mix of natural scenery and trendy city streets, you want to make sure you see all the top places in Portland .

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the best attractions in Portland.

1. Washington Park, a calm place to visit in Portland, OR

Washington Park is a beautiful public urban park and one of Portland’s main attractions . It has a little bit of everything – gardens, monuments, recreation areas, public art, and miles of forest trails. There are even two museums and an arboretum.

One of my favorite parts of Washington Park is the Portland Japanese Garden , but I’ll talk about this later.

Washington Park, things to do in Portland, Oregon

Another interesting place to go in Portland ’s Washington Park is the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum. The museum is suitable for all ages and includes exhibits related to the Pacific Northwest forests and conservation efforts.

You should also check out the walking trails, which connect to Forest Park. One of the most popular trails is the Wildwood Trail . It’s over 25 miles long, but only three of them are in Washington Park. Going on a short hike is a great activity in Portland to do to get some fresh air and exercise.

Two other great attractions in the park are the Hoyt Arboretum and the International Rose Test Garden , which I’ll talk about later.

2. Pittock Mansion, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Portland

Not far from Washington Park, you’ll find Pittock Mansion , one of the top tourist attractions in Portland, Oregon . The 46-room home was built in 1914 in the French-Renaissance style, and today it’s on the National Register of Historic Places. The mansion was the home of former Oregonian publisher Henry Pittock, but today it’s an iconic landmark and must-see for anyone visiting Portland .

Pittock Mansion, the best activity in Portland

Some people are fine with just driving past the mansion, but you can also purchase timed tickets for a tour of the residence and grounds. The interior of the home is lavish and artistic and includes a library, Turkish smoking room, sewing room, music room, and several bedrooms. The hilltop mansion provides spectacular views of downtown Portland, OR, and Mt. Hood in the background which is worth the visit on its own.

The Pittock Mansion grounds are free to access and are open daily. However, the mansion is closed to tours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If you follow the Wildwood Trail from Forest Park, it will lead to the regal estate.

3. Lan Su Chinese Garden, the most beautiful place to visit in downtown Portland

Another beautiful Portland tourist spot is the Lan Su Chinese Garden . Located in the city’s Chinatown neighborhood, the 40,000 ft² walled garden provides a tranquil escape from the busy streets.

The garden is inspired by the classical gardens in Suzhou, China, and about 90% of the plants here are native to China. There are hundreds of lush flowers as well as soothing greenery like orchids, bamboo, and lotuses. Without a doubt, this is one of the most peaceful attractions in Portland, Oregon .

Lan Su Chinese Garden, a fun thing to do in Portland

You’ll also find several traditional Chinese structures that will make you forget you’re in one of the busiest cities in the United States. For example, the Painted Boat in Misty Rain is a charming boat-shaped pavilion, and the Flowers Bathing in Spring Rain pavilion by the water is a good place to find your Zen.

Don’t forget to check out the scholar’s studio, the Celestial Hall of Permeating Fragrance , where martial arts students practice. I also thought the Moon Locking Pavilion and two-story Tower of Cosmic Reflection were lovely.

I definitely recommend the Lan Su garden as one of the most serene things to do in Portland . It’s a great place to take your time and admire the still ponds, gorgeous architecture, and pretty plants.

4. Visit Pioneer Courthouse Square, one of the best things to do in Portland

Pioneer Courthouse Square is an outdoor area known as “Portland’s Living Room.” When you visit, you’ll understand why, as it’s a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Fortunately, the square is much larger than a living room (in fact, it’s 40,000ft²).

The square is a huge boon to Portland’s tourism , and I think it’s one of the first things to see in Portland . Two light rail stops are on either side, so it’s easy to get to. If the weather is nice, you’ll see outdoor chess games and a central fountain. Throughout the year, different public events take place in the square’s amphitheater.

Pioneer Courthouse Square, a top place to visit in Portland

4. Pioneer Courthouse Square, one of the best things to do in Portland

The square is also a great place to see some Portland public art. Two popular pieces are the Umbrella Man sculpture and the Weather Machine , a 33-foot-tall column with a large orb. If you go there at noon, you’ll see the orb open up and reveal the weather forecast for the day. Another thing to do at Pioneer Courthouse Square is to enjoy some yummy street food. Several food carts are parked in the square each day.

There is never a bad time to visit the square since there are hundreds of events and programs throughout the year. This tour takes you to the square in the morning while it’s less crowded, as well as Pittock Mansion and the International Rose Garden.

5. Forest Park, the best hike in Portland, Oregon

As I mentioned earlier, Forest Park connects to Washington Park. It’s one of the largest urban forests in the country (over 5,000 acres), so it’s a must-see. Its trail system is well-known, particularly the Wildwood Trail .

The total trail is 30 miles, but there are many shorter paths in Forest Park. Some of them pass by other Portland attractions like the Japanese Garden and Pittock Mansion, while others travel deeper into the woods.

The western side of the park offers views of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, as well as the Tualatin Mountains. Even though Forest Park is close to downtown Portland OR , you can still find lots of beautiful flora and fauna here. The area attracts wildlife from the nearby Tualatin River Valley, such as black-tailed deer, flying squirrels, great horned owls, and bobcats and elk.

Forest Park, one of the best places to visit in Portland

The park is also home to an interesting site, the Witch’s Castle . Also called the Stone House, it’s an abandoned stone building covered in moss (and some graffiti) that dates back over 100 years. Of course, urban legends have dubbed it haunted, making it another weird thing to see in Portland. In reality, it was previously used as a ranger station and public restroom.

Forest Park and all its interesting sights make for a fun weekend outing, so I recommend visiting if you have the time. There is also this urban hiking tour , which follows a 5-mile trail and passes by the Witch’s Castle.

6. Visit the Portland Japanese Garden, one of the best activities in Portland

One of the top attractions in Portland , which I referenced in some of the previous sections, is the Portland Japanese Garden . Located in Washington Park, the garden will transport you to a world of Zen and natural beauty.

The 12-acre site is divided into 8 gardens, as well as a Cultural Village designed by a famous Japanese architect. The Cultural Village is where you can learn more about traditional Japanese arts and customs. From time to time, the building hosts cultural performances.

Portland Japanese Garden, a top Portland attraction

6. Portland Japanese Garden, one of the best activities in Portland

Back outside, be sure to explore the different areas of the garden, especially the Strolling Pond Garden . It’s one of the most serene places to visit in Portland , although it feels more like an ethereal dream. You can walk across the moon bridge while koi swim underneath. There is also a gorgeous waterfall and a large pagoda lantern that’s over 100 years old.

Besides, you will find a rock garden, a bonsai terrace, and a tea garden with an authentic Japanese tea house. Even if you just spend an hour here, it’s one of the best places to visit in Portland . It’s suitable for all ages and there are public tours available for free, although they depend on the availability of volunteers.

7. International Rose Test Garden, one of the most popular places to visit in Portland

The International Rose Test Garden is part of Washington Park, as I mentioned earlier. The 4.5-acre park has over 10,000 rose bushes and hundreds of varieties of roses. It’s no wonder why more than half a million people visit the garden each year.

The peak time to visit the rose garden is between April and October. The blooms are at their prettiest in June, so you might want to visit during the summer.

The International Rose Test Garden is a popular venue for weddings and other special events, although you don’t have to dress up to go there. The area is a wonderful place to recenter yourself and treat your nose to the delicious floral scents.

International Rose Test Garden, something to do in Portland

While you’re there, be sure to check out the Queen’s Walk, a brick path with bronze plaques commemorating each Rose Festival queen and signed in her real handwriting. There is also the Royal Rosarian Garden, which has blooms dedicated to former public servants. The Shakespeare Garden displays year-round shrubs, tropical plants, and other greenery along a paved walkway.

You should also keep an eye out for the public art, such as the Water Sculpture fountain and the Royal Rosarian bronze statue. Various events are held throughout the year at the garden’s outdoor amphitheater.

8. Go to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, one of the best free things to do in Portland

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Portland , I suggest checking out Tom McCall Waterfront Park . The large park is a popular downtown area and overlooks the Willamette River. It’s a very popular spot for joggers and bikers since the walking and riding paths offer scenic views. The waterfront trail is quite crowded during lunch hour, so it might be best to visit in the morning or early evening.

Since the park is so big, it is divided into several sections. The Esplanade is the riverfront corridor, but there is also the Central Lawn , the primary green space in the park. Several festivals take place here throughout the year, and there is a big fountain that serves as a fun centerpiece during the summer. If you visit in the spring, you’ll get to see the famous cherry blossoms, which line the park’s Japanese American Historical Plaza.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park, things to do in downtown Portland

8. Tom McCall Waterfront Park, one of the best free things to do in Portland

The park includes a few memorials dedicated to historical figures and Portland organizations. Other landmarks include Friendship Circle , the steamboat Portland , and the Saturday Market Pavilion . One of the fun Portland weekend activities to do is to visit the outdoor arts and crafts market, which is held every weekend between March and December. I also suggest this bike tour , which takes you along the riverfront corridor to Chinatown and the Old Town district.

9. The Grotto, the most peaceful place to go in Portland, OR

Also known as the National Sanctuary of our Sorrowful Mother, the Grotto is a Catholic outdoor shrine. This is one of the most tranquil places in Portland , whether you’re religious or not. The centerpiece of this area is the Grotto Shrine , a cathedral cave carved out of a 110-foot basalt cliff. A statue of the Virgin Mary and Jesus, as well as a replica of Michelangelo’s Pietà are inside.

Above the cliff, there is a botanical garden, several shrines, and a meditation chapel. The Grotto also has nearly two dozen religious sculptures, as well as a John F. Kennedy Memorial.

The Grotto, one of the things to see in Portland

Many people enjoy walking through the gardens, which are quiet, peaceful, and perfect for contemplation. Some visitors go into the Monastery , which was built in 1936 and serves as a home to the Servite Friars. Other visitors prefer to explore the grounds, which include a Rose Garden, Labyrinth, and Peace Garden .

The Grotto is designated as a National Sanctuary, and several mass services are held each day. The area is open to everyone, and most would agree that it’s one of the most beautiful places in Portland .

10. Portland Art Museum, something you must see in Portland, OR

If it rains in Portland or you’re a big fan of the arts, then I recommend visiting the Portland Art Museum . It’s the oldest art museum on the west coast, and it has a huge collection that spans all kinds of time periods and artistic styles.

What’s great about this museum is that, among its permanent gallery spaces, it also owns an outdoor sculpture garden and the Northwest Film Center.

The museum is also the venue for the Contemporary Northwest Art Awards, which are held every two years and showcase artists from the Pacific Northwest. It’s a cool thing to do in Portland if you’re in the city during the event.

Portland Art Museum, a cool place in Portland

Among the permanent pieces at the museum are classics like Monet’s Water Lilies and Renoir’s Seine at Argenteuil. Of course, you don’t have to be an art historian to appreciate these works. Depending on your preferences, you can peruse the Native American masks, ancient Corinthian vases, Asian woodblocks, or thousands of other pieces.

The art museum is a fun place to visit in Portland for all ages. It’s also a nice thing to do if you get stuck with a dreary, wet Pacific Northwest day.

11. World Forestry Center, a great place to visit in Portland with kids

The World Forestry Center is a unique place to see in Portland . It’s a great way to familiarize yourself with the local flora and learn more about the forests of the Pacific Northwest. This is such a valuable part of the country, and the World Forestry Center has fun and interesting exhibits that will appeal to all ages. In fact, a visit here is a wonderful thing to do in Portland with kids .

The Center is a non-profit institution and offers a variety of programs. It also has a museum with several exhibits explaining sustainable forestry, local wildlife, and innovations in timber-working and environmentalism. There are also virtual tours that transport visitors to the boreal, temperate, subtropical, and tropical forests of Siberia, China, South Africa, and the Amazon Rainforest.

World Forestry Center, what to do in Portland, Oregon

After visiting the museum, step outside and explore the rest of the campus. You can climb aboard Peggy, the 42-ton locomotive, or examine a 10,000-pound petrified tree stump that’s estimated to be millions of years old.

The World Forestry Center is conveniently located in Washington Park, so after your visit, you can hop on the Wildwood Trail or another green space in the park.

12. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, the most romantic thing to see in Portland

For those who are looking for romantic things to do in Portland , consider the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. This area is 9.5 acres of gorgeous azaleas, trees, and of course, rhododendrons. Along with thousands of flowers, the botanical garden is also home to several small lakes, waterfalls, and a fountain.

The garden is open daily from dawn to dusk and it’s one of the top Portland Oregon attractions for couples. The atmosphere is calm, and the surroundings are lovely, so it’s a good spot for those who want to take a break from the city. Not only will you find a variety of flora here; there are dozens of species of waterfowl, too. Keep your eyes peeled for Canada geese, herons, gulls, and hummingbirds.

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, the best thing to do in Portland

The most recent addition to the attraction is the waterfront butterfly garden, which adds a magical air to the place. Crystal Springs sees many repeat visitors throughout the year, and if you visit, you’re sure to want to come back. There is something so peaceful about the charming footbridges, majestic waterfalls, and vibrant blooms. Plus, it’s a photographer’s paradise!

13. Portland Saturday Market, an amazing thing to experience in Portland

As I mentioned in the section about the Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the Portland Saturday Market is something to check out if you’re in the city on a weekend. The market is open every weekend between March and December and is the largest continuously operating outdoor market in the country.

Here, you’ll find arts, crafts, and all kinds of unique Portland stuff . It’s a great way to get out and about, and you can meet local artisans and vendors. You may even find some nice souvenirs and gifts for friends. Dozens of stalls line the waterfront, and the merchandise ranges from hand-crafted jewelry and textiles to art prints, wine, body care, and clothing.

Portland Saturday Market, the best place to go in Portland

The products aren’t the cheapest, but I think it’s always good to support and pay artists what they’re worth! Besides, you can always stroll along the riverfront and look at the stalls for free. Plus, you’ll already be in the park, so once you’re done browsing, you can explore the rest of the area.

Consider the Saturday Market if you’re looking for Portland weekend activities , and you won’t be disappointed. Just don’t confuse it with the Portland Farmer’s Market, which is open on Saturdays at Portland State University.

14. Alberta Arts District, one of the most popular places to go in Portland

For something interesting to do in the city, check out the Alberta Arts District . In this northeast section of Portland, you can find all the great things that make the city weird, vibrant, and unique.

This section of downtown was once plagued by crime, but now it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists, full of trendy galleries, cafes, and cool things to do in Portland. Pick up a map of all the street art in the neighborhood from the Portland Street Art Alliance and go on a hunt for murals and galleries. Some popular art spaces include the Guardino Gallery, Alberta Rose Theatre, and Ampersand Gallery .

Alberta Arts District, the best thing to do in downtown Portland

If you’re in the city at the end of the month, stop by the Alberta Arts District for the “Last Thursday” street fair. The event also includes food carts and street performers. After perusing works by local artists, grab a bite to eat at one of the hip restaurants or bars. A few local favorites include Tin Shed, Alberta Street Pub, Radio Room, and Great Notion Brewing .

While exploring the arts district is something to do in Portland for free , I suggest supporting the local businesses by purchasing some art or food. You could also take this tour , which takes you around the neighborhood to some hotspots and little-known corners of the district.

15. Shanghai Tunnels/Portland Underground, an unusual thing to do in Portland

Lots of people refer to this city as a quirky place, and the Shanghai Tunnels Tour is one of the weird things to do in Portland . Also known as the “Portland Underground”, the tunnels are mostly underneath the Chinatown neighborhood, and are remnants of the city’s past.

The discreet passages connected hotel and tavern basements and were originally intended to help with the movement of shipped goods that came from traders on the Willamette River. The underground pathways allowed businesses to transport stock without having to deal with streetcars and trains.

Shanghai Tunnels/Portland Underground, the best activity in Portland, Oregon

Of course, the tunnels are now one of the strangest Portland attractions and have accumulated some odd stories throughout the years. Today, you can take a tour of the Shanghai Tunnels and learn more about the story of these passageways and the people who once used them. Some tours delve into the haunted legends that many people now associate with the tunnels.

There is even a Museum of the Shanghai Tunnels , which educates visitors on the history of the shanghaiing trade, in which sailors would kidnap individuals to have them serve as deckhands. If you’re fascinated by the tunnels and want to hear more creepy stories, I recommend this ghost tour , which takes you to the Portland underground and other supposedly paranormal places downtown.

16. Hike Mt. Tabor Park, another place you don’t want to miss in Portland, Oregon

Another outdoorsy thing to do around Portland, Oregon is to visit Mount Tabor . Its name is a reference to Mount Tabor in Israel, but the mountain in Oregon is actually a dormant volcanic vent. As if that weren’t cool enough, you can hike to the peak (about 630 feet), to get stunning views of downtown Portland. You will also find an outdoor amphitheater and basketball courts there.

Mt. Tabor Park, the best thing to do in Portland, Oregon with family

The land around the volcanic hill is referred to as Mt. Tabor Park . Here, you’ll find a visitor’s center and a range of hiking trails that vary in difficulty. There is a 1-mile, 1.5-mile, and 3-mile trail, which loop around the reservoirs in the park.

A visit to Mount Tabor is one of the best free things to do in Portland .

17. Powell’s City of Books, an unforgettable place to go in Portland

You might not think about visiting a bookstore as one of the exciting things to do around Portland but hear me out. Powell’s City of Books is the largest new and used bookstore in the world, and its retail space holds more than a million books spread across an entire city block.

Trust me, visiting Powell’s City of Books is one of the top 10 things to do in Portland . No matter your interests, you can find a book that will speak to you. The bookstore is a lot of fun to explore, thanks to its nine color-coded rooms. There are over 3,500 sections from cooking to languages to travel and everything in between.

Powell's City of Books, a top attraction in Portland

The independent bookseller has been open for nearly 50 years. Visiting the store and curling up with a good book has been one of the favorite Portland weekend activities for locals. The shop is more than a collection of books; it’s a community of book lovers, writers, and creative people. Throughout the month, the bookstore hosts workshops and meet-and-greets with local authors and other community members.

It’s also worth noting that Powell’s City of Books is in Portland’s Pearl District, which is known for its art galleries and upscale shops. That said, you’ll find lots of bargains at this bookstore. If you’re going to visit, keep in mind that they’re open Wednesday through Sunday.

18. Hoyt Arboretum, a lovely attraction in Portland, Oregon

Another awesome attraction in Portland ’s Washington Park is the Hoyt Arboretum . The arboretum is open to the public and accessible from the Park or the Wildwood Trail.

This is one of the best places in Portland to get your nature fix. The arboretum has one of the largest collections of coniferous trees in the United States, as well as thousands of species of shrubs and plants. Some of its most prized trees are the dawn redwood, weeping sequoia, and Himalayan birch.

Of course, you don’t have to be a forestry expert to appreciate the lush surroundings and fresh air. Visitors are free to simply walk around and enjoy the natural beauty, or they can participate in a class or program hosted by the arboretum staff. Depending on the time of year, there are different plant and tree species in bloom, so there’s never a bad time to visit.

Hoyt Arboretum, things to do in Portland for free

Once you arrive, feel free to check out the visitor’s center, or go straight to one of the trails or picnic areas. I highly recommend going to the bamboo garden, which has the largest collection of bamboo in the Pacific Northwest. There, you’ll see a bamboo-inspired sculpture, Basket of Air , hanging over the pond in the garden. The arboretum has another living sculpture, House for Summer , which is made of Himalayan birch.

The Hoyt Arboretum is a great place to go if you’re looking for cheap things to do in Portland . Plus, it’s close to several other popular attractions within Washington Park.

19. USS Blueback, another unusual place to go in Portland

Besides the natural beauty, there is other interesting stuff to do in Portland . For example, how about a visit to the USS Blueback ?

This is a decommissioned sub from the United States Navy. It was launched in May 1959 and was the last non-nuclear submarine to join the Navy ranks.

Blueback’s first mission was to the Gulf of Mexico in 1960, followed by the Panama Canal. It also made port calls in Seattle and Vancouver and had a temporary home at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Blueback made trips to Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and the Philippine Sea. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry obtained Blueback in 1994, and it has been stayed at the Willamette River, in from of the museum, since then.

USS Blueback, what to do in Portland Oregon

This submarine earned two battle stars during the Vietnam War, and it has also appeared in fictional wars on the silver screen. It was featured in Hawaii Five-O in the 1970s and the modern TV show Portlandia .

The sub is on the National Register of Historic Places. In the past decade or so, its radio room has been restored and there are guided tours of the interior several times a day. Touring the Blueback is a cool thing to do in Portland, Oregon with kids . It’s also a fun experience for adults, as most people haven’t been inside a submarine before.

20. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, an interesting attraction in Portland

As I mentioned in the previous section, the USS Blueback is at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). This museum is a boon to Oregon’s Portland tourism and a place I recommend checking out.

In addition to the submarine, OMSI has an IMAX theater, planetarium, and several exhibition halls dedicated to life science, earth science, and environmental technology. It also has a science playground, which is a fun Portland Oregon attraction for children.

Not only is OMSI a great place to learn something new, but it’s also an enjoyable experience. The permanent exhibits include physics, chemistry, paleontology, and biology labs, an earthquake epicenter, and innovation stations. Visitors are encouraged to come up with solutions to real-world problems and scenarios while learning about different branches of science.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, what to visit in Portland

The Kendall Planetarium is the next best thing to the wide-open skies of the great outdoors. In fact, a visit to OMSI is a must-do in Portland if you run into bad weather during your trip. The theater plays several different shows depending on the time of day. A few examples of documentaries include arctic fires, evolutionary mysteries, and the life cycle.

OMSI is the place to go if you want to beat your boredom and learn something new about the world around you. It’s a perfect alternative to outdoor activities, especially on those dreary and wet Pacific Northwest days.

21. Mill Ends Park, a little-known area to visit in Portland, OR

Back to the weird sights in downtown Oregon ! Mill Ends Park is one of those interesting things in this city that will make you scratch your head and wonder.

The park is not really a park at all, but more like a tiny shrub in the middle of the road. Dubbed a “tiny urban park”, it’s just two feet across and consists of one lonely tree. The park is in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world’s smallest park. You can find Mill Ends Park at SW Naito Parkway in the median strip.

The park was established in 1948 when that little spot on the median was being prepared for a streetlight. For some reason, workers never filled the drilled hole with the pole, so a columnist named Dick Fagan placed some flowers in the hole and named the area Mill Ends.

Being a writer, Fagan came up with an elaborate story about Mill Ends. He wrote in the Oregon Journal that he noticed a leprechaun digging the hole in the median. Fagan ran into the street and grabbed the magical little guy, who granted Fagan a wish. The columnist wished for a park of his own, but the clever leprechaun, noticing that Fagan didn’t specify the size of the park, gave presented the hole in the cement as his new park.

The story of Mill Ends lives on, and Portlandians are quite protective of it. The park changes from time to time, such as when it became a Charlie Brown Christmas Tree or when people put tiny plastic army men in the surrounding dirt. It’s definitely one of those weird Portland things to see .

22. The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium and Museum, another must-visit in Portland

Continue your Portland adventure and stop by an unusual little spot in the northwest district. The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium and Museum is a place like no other in the city and one that will delight, amaze, and confuse you.

The Peculiarium is home to all kinds of oddities, gags, novelties, books, toys, and much more. You never know what you’ll see at the museum, which opened in 2011 and is the only Freakybuttrue Peculiarium in the world.

Everything about the Peculiarium and its employees is tongue-in-cheek, and you’ll be laughing and having fun in no time. A visit here is a great thing to do in Portland, OR if you want to do something fun and shake up your routine. The items here are peculiar, of course, and you’ll probably feel all kinds of emotions, from disgust to disbelief to joy and amusement. Some of the exhibits include adult themes and dark undertones, so be aware.

Freakybuttrue Peculiarium, another attraction in Portland

The museum is famous for its bug sundaes, so will you be brave enough to try one? You can count me out on that one!

Admission to the Peculiarium is just $5, and you can get in for free if you wear a good costume. If you’re looking for Portland’s best quirks, you’ll definitely have to stop by.

23. Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge, another exciting thing to do in Portland

Multnomah Falls is a spectacular place to see in Portland , and well worth the 35-minute drive. The two-tier waterfall cascades over basalt cliffs from a height of 620 feet. Its waters land in a pool that feeds into the Columbia River Gorge.

The gorge is a huge canyon that stretches over 80 miles and goes through the Cascade Mountain Range. In some places, the canyon is as deep as 4,000 feet, and its western side reaches down to the Portland area.

If you want to see Multnomah Falls, there is a paved footpath that will lead you to Benson Footbridge. The bridge crosses the lower tier of the waterfall, about 100 feet above the ground. Getting up close and personal with the falls will be one of the most exciting Portland adventures of your trip!

Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge, another activity in Portland, OR

Other waterfalls worth visiting in the area are Latourell Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horsetail Falls . Besides, check out the Oneonta Gorge if you’re into hiking.

If you don’t want to drive there, you can also take this half-day tour to see the most important sights.

Or, for those who are short on time or want to see the canyon from a different point of view, I suggest this flight tour . The 40-minute flight will give you scenic views of the gorge and Multnomah Falls, as well as the Bridge of the Gods steel bridge.

24. Visit Willamette Valley, the best thing to do in Portland for couples

Another wonderful date idea is a trip to Willamette Valley , also known as the Oregon Wine Country. Imagine miles of open land, the flowing river, and views of the Cascade Range, the Oregon Coast Range, and the Calapooya Mountains. It’s just as lovely as it sounds, and one of the best places to visit near Portland, Oregon .

The Willamette Valley is about 50 miles from downtown Portland, making it a perfect day trip. Visiting one of the 500+ wineries and vineyards is one of the top things to do outside Portland . I recommend this wine tour , which includes transportation to three Willamette Valley wineries.

Willamette Valley, the best place to visit around Portland

If wine isn’t your thing, there are other activities available in the Willamette Valley. The area is home to some stunning natural places, such as Silver Falls State Park . Here, you’ll find some trails through the lush forest leading to gorgeous waterfalls.

There is also the more challenging Spencer Butte Hike. It’s a bit of a climb, but you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views over the valley and the city of Eugene, Oregon . Just like Portland, Eugene is part of the Willamette Valley region, so if you want to get to know this city, consider a day trip there, too.

25. Mount Hood, one of the top places to go near Portland

Mount Hood is one of the most interesting things to see in Portland, OR . The stratovolcano, which geologists aren’t sure is active or inactive, is part of the Cascade Volcanic Arc. It’s the second most-climbed mountain in the world, and it’s just 50 miles southeast of Portland.

In addition to being the highest mountain in Oregon, Mount Hood offers year-round activities in Portland. If you visit during the summer months, the area is a haven for camping and hiking. During autumn and spring, there are all kinds of wildflowers and berries to see. The harvest supplies the Fruit Loop vendors, who have their stands at the foot of Mt. Hood in the Hood River Valley .

If you visit during the winter, you’ll be able to enjoy one of the best ski areas in the country. Mount Hood has six ski areas: Cooper Spur, Mount Hood Meadows, Ski Bowl, Snow Bunny, Summit, and Timberline . These resorts offer fun wintertime activities in Portland , including skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.

Mount Hood, the best place to go in Portland

When it’s warmer, the Mount Hood National Forest beckons visitors near and far. It is known for its untouched natural beauty and gorgeous alpine lakes. Two of the most amazing ones are Trillium Lake and Lost Lake. On a clear, sunny day, you can see the mountain reflected in still, blue water.

There are so many ways to enjoy this natural area, but if you don’t want to drive there, I recommend this tour , which includes visits to the Hood River, Multnomah Falls, and Timberline Lodge and Ski Area.

26. Cannon Beach and the Coast of Oregon, one of the best beaches in Portland

If you’re willing to take a brief drive, you can visit Cannon Beach and the Oregon Coast . About 80 miles from the city, this beachy area is a popular place for a vacation in Portland .

There you can find Haystack Rock, that was the set of The Goonies movie and one of the best natural places to visit near Portland . This 235-foot sea stack is said to be the third-largest intertidal structure in the world. Wait until low tide to see the tide pools, and you may spot sea slugs, starfish, anemones, crabs, and sea snails.

Seaside is another popular town you should visit at the Coast of Oregon. It’s known as a fun thing to do around Portland , thanks to its amusements, bike rentals, and 1.5-mile oceanfront walkway, The Promenade. It’s also very close to Ecola State Park , one of the best places to visit in Oregon.

Cannon Beach and the Coast of Oregon, cool places in Portland

Going south you will find Oswald West State Park and Nehalem Bay State Park, other hotspots for camping, yurt rentals, hiking, and biking.

I also suggest visiting nearby Cape Meares . It’s part of the Three Capes Scenic Route , which also includes Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda. Cape Meares has a gorgeous scenic viewpoint 200 feet above sea level, granting you unhindered views of the ocean and nearby sights. During the summer, you may spot whales. There is also the Cape Meares Lighthouse and the “Octopus Tree”, a Sitka spruce tree with multiple trunks.

If you don’t want to drive, I recommend this full-day tour, which takes you to some of the most beautiful coastal towns on the Pacific Northwest Coast, including Cannon Beach and Nehalem Bay.

27. Tillamook Seafood Tour, the most fun thing to do in Portland

The Tillamook Coastal area on the Oregon shoreline is one of the best places to visit near Portland Oregon . Here, you’ll find the Tillamook Bay and its charming little town. Contrary to its coastal vibe, its economy relies mostly on dairy farming, although you can also get amazing seafood here. This brings me to my #1 recommendation for this area: a Tillamook Seafood Tour.

Tillamook Seafood Tour, things to do in downtown Portland

This half-day tour will introduce you to the best seafood and cheese in the region. Plus, you’ll get to meet local farmers and fishermen and try your hand at some of their work. Many of the businesses in this area use sustainable fishing and crabbing practices, and it just seems to make the fresh oysters, crabs, and fish taste so much better.

If you’re a seafood lover, that tour is one of the coolest things to do in Portland Oregon , so you shouldn’t miss it out.

28. Eat at Voodoo Doughnut, another unique thing to do in Portland, OR

When visiting a new place, it’s always fun to explore the dining spots that are popular with locals. You can’t spend too much time in Portland without hearing about Voodoo Doughnut . This unique doughnut shop has been featured on TV and in national publications. It started in Portland, but as of 2020, there are nine Voodoo locations spread across five states.

The founders of Voodoo Doughnut opened their shop after realizing there weren’t any doughnut places in downtown Portland. They set out with a plan to dominate the doughnut market with all kinds of intriguing flavors. People quickly noticed Voodoo, and the rest is history. Today, it’s one of the tastiest Portland Oregon attractions you must visit.

The doughnut shop has more than 50 different doughnuts, ranging from yeast and cake doughnuts to specialty treats like map bars, cannoli doughnuts, apple fritters, and even a voodoo doll doughnut. They even offer vegan flavors, and they’ll take custom requests in advance.

Voodoo Doughnut, fun activities in Portland

Walking the streets with a Voodoo doughnut in hand is one of the coolest things to do in Portland, OR , not to mention the most delicious. Just be aware that this place is extremely popular, and the line of customers often snakes out of the door and down the block. Locals will tell you it’s totally worth it.

However, if you don’t want to wait so long for a sweet treat, Coco Donuts is another popular doughnut spot in Portland with multiple locations. The doughnuts are handmade, and they roast their own coffee, too. This Portland Underground Donut tour will take you to Voodoo Doughnuts, Coco Donuts, and three other prized doughnut shops in the city.

29. Portland Food Tour, the best thing to do in Portland for foodies

If you’re a foodie looking for fun activities in Portland , you can’t go wrong with this downtown food tour . Do you know that Portland is one of the best food cities in the US ?

The tour starts at the Pine Street Market, where you’ll learn about the city’s gastronomy and culinary trends. Your tour guide will introduce you to the local food scene as you visit some of Portland’s most iconic restaurants.

Portland Food Tour, fun stuff to do in Portland

As an added bonus, you’ll be able to pair your dishes with some excellent beers. Without a doubt, this food tour is a cool thing to do in Portland , whether you’re traveling alone or as a group. If you want to get to know the city, there’s no better way than by whetting your appetite!

30. Find the Portland Food Trucks, a great thing to do in Portland at night

Along with the historic pubs and restaurants, as well as its hipster cafes, you must eat at a Portland food truck . There are more than 700 scattered throughout the city, so going on a food truck excursion is one of the top things to do in Portland!

While every local you talk to will have their personal favorite, there are a few popular food cars that I recommend checking out.

First is Cartopia , which serves everything from casual American fare to Middle Eastern gyros and Indian paneer fries. It has a few carts spread throughout the city.

Portland Food Trucks, things to do in Portland

El Local Mexican Food Truck in the Industrial District is where you can get delectable carne asada tacos, guacamole, and chilaquiles. The owners are friendly and serve up big portions as well as vegetarian-friendly plates. The burritos and salsa verde are crowd favorites.

Third Avenue Food Cart Pod is lovingly called the Gyro District by Portlandians. Other city gems include Gumba (hearty Italian food), Gracie’s Apizza (local ingredients), and Kee’s Loaded Kitchen (Southern specialties).

The food cart scene is a Portland Oregon attraction all on its own. These areas are popular hang-out spots among locals and a great place to catch a break and a delicious bite to eat at lunchtime. If you can’t decide with food truck to try, check out this food pods tour and stop at 5-7 different trucks and one brewery.

I hope you enjoyed learning about the best Portland Oregon attractions , and you have some ideas for your next trip. You can save time planning your Portland activities with this convenient map.

This city in the Pacific Northwest is lots of fun and well worth visiting. I’m still amazed by all the things to do in Portland, Oregon , as well as how the city perfectly balances natural beauty with impressive modernization. Do you have a favorite Portland tourist spot ? Let me know in the comments. I’ll also do my best to answer any questions you may have. Happy travels!

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14 Things to See and Do in Portland, Oregon

A colorful pink sunset over Portland, Oregon, USA, with Mount Hood in the background

Portland, Oregon, is one of America’s most unique cities. With a world-class food scene, plentiful local breweries, and postcard-perfect scenery, it’s surprising that more people don’t visit this eclectic city.

I first visited here in 2011 for Thanksgiving. While in Spain , I made friends who lived in Portland and paid them a visit on my way to Asia. What started as “like” during my first trip turned into love on my second.

I’ve visited the city nearly every year since. Portland is on the very tiny list of cities I would actually live in ( the nearby Oregon coast is stunning too! ).

What I really love about Portland is the high quality of life. It’s compact and easy to get around, there is good public transportation available, the locals are friendly, it’s environmentally conscious, and, most importantly, the food and beer scene here is amazing.

While the city developed a bit of a bad rap during the protests of 2020 and 2021, the overwhelming majority of that has been overblown by the media. While Portland isn’t perfect (no city ever is), it’s not nearly as “dangerous” as certain people would like you to believe. A city of over 600,000 people, it’s not being burnt to the ground and problems are confined to a small section downtown. Don’t let the media make you afraid to visit this incredible city.

To help you make the most of your visit, here are my favorite 14 things to see and do in Portland:

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

2. see pittock mansion, 3. hike forest park, 4. browse at powell’s city of books, 5. devour delicious donuts, 6. wander the international rose test garden, 7. see the japanese garden, 8. visit the freakybutture peculiarium and museum, 9. take a food tour, 10. relax at laurelhurst park or washington park, 11. indulge at the food trucks, 12. visit the portland art museum, 13. drink some beer, 14. hike the columbia river gorge.

I always start my visits to a new city with a walking tour. It’s the best way to learn about a destination, get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and have an expert local guide answer all your questions.

Around Portland Tours offers almost a dozen different tours around town, focusing on food, the main sights, and Portland’s nearby hiking spots. Tours last 2-4 hours and start at around $29 USD. They’re a great way to kick off your visit. They also offer bike tours too for $59 USD!

You can also find niche tours if you want something different, like an underground tour or a ghost tour.

The stately Pittock Mansion in Portland, Oregon on a summer day

3229 NW Pittock Dr, +1 503-823-3623, pittockmansion.org. Open daily, from 10am–5pm (4pm in the winter, opens at noon on Tuesdays year-round). Admission is $16.50 USD.

Located on the northwestern edge of town, Forest Park is one of the nation’s largest urban parks. Covering a sprawling 5,000 acres, it’s home to over 70 miles of hiking and biking trails. There are over 100 species of birds here, as well as 62 different species of mammals. It’s also home to the Witch’s Castle, an abandoned stone building covered in moss. (It has no connection to witches. The name came from students who used to use the site for secret parties in the 1980s).

Some trails worth checking out are the Wildwood Loop trail (easy, 2 hours), Forest Park Ridge Trail (moderate, 1.5 hours), and the Dogwood Wild Cherry Loop (easy, 1.5 hours).

This is the largest independent and used bookstore in the world, home to over a million books. Established in 1971, the store takes up an entire city block and has 3,500 different sections. It buys upwards of 3,000 new and used books each and every day so if you’re a book lover like me, you could easily spend a good chunk of time here!

1005 W Burnside St, +1 800-878-7323, powells.com/locations/powells-city-of-books. Open daily 10am–9pm.

Portland is known for its donuts. If you Google the city or search for it on social media, donuts will inevitably pop up (there even an donut walking tour here). Voodoo Doughnut put the city on the map with its weird and wonderful combinations, such as Cap’n Crunch or maple bacon. It also makes cream-filled phallic donuts as well — so you can see why it’s become a quirky staple of the city.

Some locals might argue that Voodoo is for tourists, preferring donuts from rival donut shop Blue Star instead. You can’t go wrong with either choice. They both have multiple locations around the city, so why not try both and see for yourself. You only live once, after all!

Home to over 10,000 rose bushes and 610 varieties, this garden is where many companies test new varieties of roses (some are tested here years before they are commercially available). It’s the oldest rose test garden in the country. During World War I, roses from all around the world were sent here for testing and safekeeping. They also host an annual competition for the city’s best rose. The roses are in bloom between April and October, though there is also an amphitheater here that holds all kinds of events, such as classical music performances and plays. Don’t miss the Shakespeare Garden, which only has types of roses referenced in Shakespeare’s plays.

Guided walking tours of the city usually stop here since it’s one of the main highlights.

400 SW Kingston Ave, +1 503-823-3636. Open daily 5am–10pm. Admission is free.

A beautiful waterfall in the Japanese Garden in Portland, Oregon

611 SW Kingston Ave, +1 503-223-1321, japanesegarden.org. Open daily 10am–5:30pm (closes at 3:30pm in the winter). Admission is $21.95 USD

If you’re looking for something decidedly weird and unconventional during your trip, visit The Peculiarium. This creepy emporium is full of all kinds of weird drawings and souvenirs, gag toys, unknown oddities in jars, and even a giant Bigfoot statue. There are fake severed body parts (which are super lifelike), and they also serve fresh-baked cookies…with bugs, scorpions, and mealworms inside and on them.

The city’s slogan is “Keep Portland Weird.” This place reflects that perfectly.

2234 Northwest Thurman Street, +1 503-227-3164, peculiarium.com. Open Thursday-Tuesday, 11am–6pm. Admission is $10 USD ($7 USD on Tuesdays). Not suitable for kids.

If you’re a foodie like me, you can’t visit Portland without taking a food tour. You’ll get to sample some of the city’s best food, learn about its culture and history, and meet other foodie travelers like yourself. It’s the best way to get the culinary lay of the land before you head off on your own to eat your way around town.

Forktown offers a few different food tours focused on different cuisines and regions of the city. It will give you a solid overview of what tasty offerings Stumptown can dish up. Tours last around three hours and cost 115 USD per person.

Lost Plate also runs a few specialized food tours, including one that focuses on donuts and one that sticks entirely to food trucks . Their tours start at $59 USD.

Portland has tons of green space to relax in and enjoy. Laurelhurst Park was designed by the same team that designed Central Park in New York . It has a laid-back atmosphere and is popular with locals and visitors alike. There’s a duck pond, bike paths, and an off-leash dog area.

Washington Park is another great choice if you’re looking to lounge with a book and enjoy the weather. The park contains memorials for the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the Holocaust, and the Lewis and Clark expedition, and also offers beautiful vistas of Portland and Mt. Hood.

People walking down a brick sidewalk lined with food trucks in Portland, Oregon

You can find plenty of tasty options on SW Fifth Ave and at the food pods (food truck lots) at Cartopia, Third Avenue, and Hawthorne Asylum. A couple of my favorites are Burger Stevens and Desi PDX. There are also tons of delicious foodie tours if you want to sample the best Portland has to offer.

Opened in 1892, this is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest. It’s also one of the oldest galleries in the country too (the seventh oldest to be exact). It’s home to over 42,000 items, from contemporary art to Native American works to Asian art and everything in between. There are permanent exhibitions, rotating temporary galleries, and an outdoor sculpture park. There’s a lot of variety here, so be sure to check the website to see what’s on during your visit.

1219 SW Park Ave, +1 503-226-2811, portlandartmuseum.org. Open Wednesday–Sunday 10am-5pm. Admission is $25 USD.

Portland is one of the beer capitals of America. There are over 70 microbreweries in the city — more than any other city in the country — and Portlandians take their beer seriously. The craft beer movement started here back in the ’80s, well before it caught on elsewhere. Many breweries have their own tours, as well as their own restaurants, so you can enjoy a pint and a bite to eat.

There are also multi-brewery tours from companies like City Brew Tours (tours start at $89 USD). There’s also the Eastside Craft Brewery Walking Tour , which lasts 2.5 hours and costs $59 USD. If you’re a craft beer aficionado, be sure to indulge (responsibly)!

A scenic vista overlooking the Columbia River Gorge near Portland, Oregon

Some suggested hikes are Dry Creek Falls (easy, 2 hours), Wahkeena Falls Loop (moderate, 3 hours), and Starvation Ridge and Warren Lake (hard, 8 hours). If you don’t have a car, there’s a daily shuttle, the Columbia Gorge Express, available. You can get a one-day Gorge Transit Pass for $15 USD, or an annual pass for $40 USD, if you’re planning on visiting the gorge a few times during your visit.

You can also take a guided tour of the gorge if you’d prefer something more organized.

Portland is one of my favorite American cities. It’s fun, eclectic, and energetic, and it has a lot to offer (especially if you’re a foodie or craft beer lover). It deserves far more attention than it gets — from domestic and international travelers alike. If you find yourself in the PNW, be sure to spend a few days here. Your tastebuds will thank you!

Book Your Trip to Portland: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two suggested places to stay in Portland are:

HI Portland

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on the United States? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on the United States for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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25 Things To Do In Portland Oregon

By Visit Oregon

Feb 5, 2022 / 4:01 am

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Welcome to the beautiful city of Portland, Oregon!

Situated in the northwestern portion of the Beaver State is the coffee-loving, rose-loving, dreamy city of Portland. The Willamette and Columbia Rivers flow around it with the majestic Mount Hood standing tall in the background. Only 80 miles from the Oregon Coast, Portland is the perfect place to have a bit of a city life and escape to tranquility a short distance away.

If you are planning a trip to Portland, Oregon, it is a great idea to plan your itinerary ahead of time. You may be asking yourself: “What is there to do in Portland?” Portland is thriving with experiences, activities, and sights to see. Please follow me along for a list of 25 things to do in Portland, Oregon. You may find it helpful as you build your itinerary ahead of your amazing adventure!

1. The Oregon Zoo

One of the most visited attractions in Portland is the Oregon Zoo. Being a part of Washington Park, it is home to approximately 3,000 animals. At the zoo, you will discover 19 endangered species. It is a fun place to take the entire family with over 20 exciting interactive exhibits. The Oregon Zoo is an outdoorsy paradise as well! With the plethora of Oregonian plants, you will feel as if you stepped into a jungle of the Pacific Northwest style.

Amazingly, you can visit animals who are from far away places such as Africa, South America, Australia, and the Arctic Circle. You will also see animals that are native to the Pacific Northwest such as sea otters, sea lions, coastal birds, and more. This is mainly due to the zoo’s conservation efforts with preserving the native wildlife of the Pacific Northwest.

Furthermore, the zoo offers exciting tours, adventurous camps, outdoor concerts, and intriguing classes for folks of all ages. There is something available for everyone.

2. Forest Park

Who says that you can’t experience the great outdoors and the beauty of nature inside the city limits? Portland is already known as being friendly with everything green and doing everything it can to preserve the environment. Therefore, it is no surprise that the largest urban nature area in the country is located in Portland.

Forest Park provides a great escape from the city WITHIN the city. And even better? It’s free! The urban forest is thick, lush, and attractively green with many scenic trails and walking paths. It’s a beautiful place to relax and unwind your mind from the hustle and bustle of the city. You may choose to stroll the scenic paths or ride your bicycle through longer trails. To give you an idea of exactly how large this place is, it has approximately 80 miles of trails in total!

3. Shanghai Tunnels

You can attend ghost tours and cultural tours at the Shanghai Tunnels. But what is it, you may ask?

The Shanghai Tunnels are part of the Portland Underground system that has a history as far back as the year 1850. Legally, the tunnels were used as easy transport to the city businesses and the Willamette River docks. However, they were also illegally used for darker purposes. While some of the stories may only be myth, there is bound to be some level of truth found somewhere in the mix. During the Prohibition Era, folks transported alcohol through the dark tunnels. Other folks had drug dens.

Furthermore, the tunnels are rumored to have hosted the activities of kidnapping for human trafficking, slavery, and prostitution. The action was none as, “Shanghaiing”. Therefore, this dark history has made the tunnels a place of interest to society today. The Cascade Geographic Society hosts the tours should you find it an interesting place to add to your itinerary.

4. Pittock Mansion

If you love historical homes, look no further than the Pittock Mansion. A staggering 16,000 square feet in size, this French Renaissance home was constructed in 1914 for Henry and Georgiana Pittock. Mr. Pittock was a leader in the city and waited until old age to build his dream home. It is a fascinating place to visit for those who adore interior and architectural design as it has 23 rooms in total. You will see a large, well-stocked library, music room, sewing room, Turkish smoking room, refrigerator room, and an antique elevator! I especially love the elegant, angled staircase. To me, it looks like a staircase straight from the Titanic. Absolutely beautiful!

5. International Rose Test Garden

Portland is known worldwide for its roses. This is why the International Rose Test Garden is one of the most popular sites in town. The rose garden was created in 1917 for the purpose of preserving European roses from destruction during the first world war. In the garden, you will find over 10,000 roses dotted across five acres of protected space.

While you can visit the garden at any time of the year, you should visit during the late spring and summer if you want to see all the roses in full bloom. The view is stunningly beautiful! Even more interesting about this place are the gardens within the garden. For instance, the Miniature Rose Garden only contains the small rose blooms. And since Portland loves Shakespeare, there’s the Shakespeare Garden where all the roses are named after his famous characters!

It doesn’t cost a single penny to explore the International Rose Test Garden. Whatever you do, don’t forget your camera!

6. Portland Art Museum

The Portland Art Museum is a special place in the state of Oregon and should not be missed whenever you visit the city. It is the oldest art museum in the entire Pacific Northwest region and contains more than 40,000 works of art. Some of the many things you will find in the art museum are English silver artifacts, contemporary American art pieces, European art pieces, Native American artifacts, superb photography, Ansel Adams art pieces, Asian art, and so much more. The museum is so large that it may take more than one visit to soak in all the sights!

7. Multnomah Falls

You can’t visit Portland without seeing the most visited waterfall in the Pacific Northwest: Multnomah Falls. Standing at a height of 620 feet, the waterfall attracts visitors from all over the country. While it is not inside the city limits, it’s only a 30 minute drive from the city. People love to take selfies in front of the waterfall and the infamous bridge. So, be prepared to have your camera or smartphone with you so you can knock one more thing off that bucket list!

Nearby, you will find the Multnomah Falls Lodge where you can purchase memorable items from the gift shop and enjoy lunch in their small eatery.

8. The Oregon Historical Society

Located in downtown Portland, the Oregon Historical Society opened its doors in 1898 and has served the community ever since. In there, you will find over 85,000 historical items including the infamous Portland Penny. The Portland Penny is special to the city because it was flipped in a coin toss in 1845 to determine the name of the city. It was a classic case of Heads and Tails. The chosen names were Portland and Boston: I’m so glad that Portland won out! The Portland Penny was minted in 1835 in Washington D.C.

You can also view items such as manuscripts, old photographs, old books, and artifacts such as a 9,000 year old leather sandal! It’s the perfect place for any history lover.

9. Portland Troll Bridge

Portland prides itself on standing out and being different. Hence, the city created the phrase, “Keep Portland Weird” to achieve just that: keeping Portland interesting, different, and well, weird!

The Portland Troll Bridge is one of those must-see sites that is working hard to keep Portland weird. The bridge is covered in toy trolls! I have quite a few toy trolls from my childhood and have thought of contributing one to the troll bridge. It would be quite the fun experience! If you have a toy troll with hot pink hair and a funky outfit, be sure to pin it to the bridge. And, as always, take a selfie and post your experience to social media!

10. Mount Hood

Just outside the city is the majestic, white-capped Mount Hood. And, believe it or not, it is also one of the most climbed mountains in the country. However, it is not a climb for the beginner. It’s a dangerous feat and requires climbers who have a ton of knowledge on high altitude hikes. (Mount Hood is approximately 11,000 feet above sea level.) To climb Mount Hood, you must be vigilant at all times and understand what things can hurt you. Melting ice, falling rocks, suffocating fumaroles, slippery surfaces,

With all of that said, once you reach the summit of Mount Hood, the view is beyond incredible.

11. World Forestry Center Discovery Museum

Located in Washington Park, Portland, the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum was established in 1971. The Center’s main goal is to teach folks about the

The World Forestry Center Discovery Museum is another attraction in Washington Park, Portland.

It opened in 1971 and measures 20,000 feet in size.

Its mission is simple but important: it aims to teach tourists and locals of Oregon alike about the importance of trees, nature, and forests in environmental sustainability.

12. Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University

You cannot visit Portland and NOT check out the Portland Farmers Market that is open every Saturday at Portland State University. If you wish to try some homegrown and homemade Oregonian goodies, then look no further than the most visited farmer’s market in the country!

The farmer’s market is so large that it contains approximately 200 sellers who offer yummy goodies such as homemade chocolate, fresh eggs, locally grown fruits and vegetables, organic meats, farm cultured cheeses, lamb, and more!

13. Morrison Street Mini Gallery

If you are on the hunt for finding something unique to set your eyes on, then be sure to visit the Mini Gallery on Morrison Street. Built in 2017, the Morrison Street Mini Gallery is merely a fancy shadow box filled with a miniature outdoor patio scene (at least, for the moment.) The scene inside the shadow box changes from month to month to keep things interesting and fun! Even better? If you visit the mini gallery during the end of its monthly run, you have the option to purchase the miniature items in the shadow box.

Honestly, if you have a young daughter or granddaughter who enjoys dollhouses, these miniature items would be the perfect gift!

14.Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

If you haven’t heard it already, Portland has a strange slogan that I’ve honestly never heard anywhere else. Simply put: Portlanders do not like being the same as everyone else. They have the desire to stand out and be unique and fun! Therefore, don’t be surprised if you hear Portlanders speak the slogan, Keep Portland Weird .

And the goal of this shop is to do exactly that: to keep Portland weird.

The store was created in 1967 by Conrad Elwood who has always stocked his shelves with the most bizarre products known to man. You will find strange artifacts, creepy creatures, cheesy prank toys, and more. It is basically a museum of everything weird, including a daunting statue of Bigfoot!

If you love everything about aliens, ghosts, monsters, hauntings, zombies, spooky art and strange desserts, then this place is a must-see.

Strange food, you ask?

By strange food, I mean goodies like chocolate covered ants and crickets. Hey, if you are up for the challenge, it’s nice to try something new, right?

15. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Since Portland sits on the Columbia River Gorge, it also offers plenty of adventures with sight-seeing. The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is the border between Oregon and Washington states. There is a small entry fee to explore the area, but the views make it SO worth it. The area consists of approximately 300,000 acres of land filled with hills, river water, waterfalls, lush trees, and more. It’s a great place to capture spectacular photography and to have a mid-day picnic. My favorite parts of the area are the waterfalls. You can view the following waterfalls in this area: Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Oneonta Gorge. (I have already told you about the amazing Multnomah Falls. I encourage you to be spontaneous and visit it for a second time!)

If I were you, I would plan to make a day of it!

16. The Wishing Tree

To me, Portland is one of those dreamy cities that you only see in the movies and wish that it existed in real life. The good news? It DOES exist in real life! I don’t know of any other places (I’m not saying there aren’t any other places with this same concept.) that have a wishing tree.

The Wishing Tree is, believe it or not, a new tradition in Portland. In fact, the chestnut tree is not on public property! A local Portlander started the tradition in 2013 when she wrote some of her own wishes on the tree and left town for a little bit. When she returned, she saw that her influence on other people had taken root (No pun intended!) and that more wishes had been added to her tree!

Instead of getting angry with people for trespassing on her property or adding paper to her tree, she LOVED that others took to her idea. Therefore, she decided to give the community a new tradition of placing wishes on the tree. She created instructions for other wishers and placed it on the tree. Officially calling it the Wishing Tree, she instructed wishers to find a blank card hanging from its branches and pen out their wishes.

In my opinion, this small detail made Portland even dreamier than before.

17. Portland Aerial Tram

Do you enjoy scenic rides? If so, you must take a ride on the Portland Aerial Tram. Please keep in mind; however, that this was not created as a recreational ride up the side of a hill. It is technically considered a form of public transport for students and staff to the Oregon University sites. But, no one treats it as such!

The ride to the upper portion of Oregon University climbs 500 feet above the city and provides an incredibly satisfying view of Portland and the Willamette Valley behind it. The tram departs from its upper and lower station every six minutes, giving folks plenty of time to board and off load. It’s a fun experience that doesn’t take up much of your time!

18. Stark’s Vacuum Cleaner Museum

When I am planning my itinerary for a vacation, I add in the traditional activities that are considered to be the main highlights of the area. You know, the places where most tourists can be found. But, I don’t stop there. I also add in areas that are unique or unusual. There’s nothing more fun, in my opinion, than exploring new, unusual places that are hard to find anywhere else.

Stark’s Vacuum Cleaner Museum is one of those unusual places.

Sure, it sounds boring. Vacuums? Really?

Really. This place sits in downtown Portland and has every kind of vacuum cleaner you can imagine! Some of their vacuum cleaners go as far back as 1960 and excite the vintage seeker in me. The museum is filled with antique models of vacuum cleaners and is more interesting than you might think. It is literally like walking down memory lane depending on your age.

Furthermore, if you have any old vacuum cleaners you wish to throw away, donate them to Stark’s Vacuum Cleaner Museum!

19. Lincoln Street Kayak and Canoe Museum

Located on Lincoln Street is a vintage-style, rustic building that houses an admirable collection of kayaks and canoes. You will especially find many canoes, kayaks, and replicas from indigenous people from hundreds of years ago. It has a fabulous history lesson on the creation of canoes and kayaks and perfect for anyone fascinated with history and/or canoeing and kayaking.

A gentleman named Harvey Golden owns the canoe and kayak collection and enjoys creating the replicas by hand. His research is wildly impressive and you will feel as if you have stepped back in time when observing the collection.

He originally started his research for the purpose of understanding the buoyancy of the historical canoes and kayaks and how to improve the operation of current canoes and kayaks. This turned into a fulfilling hobby for him and thus enjoys sharing his collection and finds in the museum.

Be sure to plan a visit to his museum on a Thursday as that is the only day of the week it is open for visitors.

20. Mill Ends Park

Visit Mill Ends Park and you will have visited the smallest park in the world! In 1971, Guinness Book of World Records listed Mill Ends Park in its famous book. Sitting in the median of Naito Parkway, Mill Ends Park is so small that you can walk by it and not notice it. It is roughly two feet wide and is green and lush where a street light should stand.

The only distinction is the sign that reads, “Mill Ends Park”. It really is the cutest thing! The creative atmosphere in Portland never ceases to amaze me, and I believe wholeheartedly that you will feel the same way.

It officially became a city park in 1976 and has since been decorated with the cutest miniature decorations. But, like many other things in Portland, it has an interesting history!

The park was created shortly after World War II by Dick Fagan. He happened to look out his window one day and saw the empty median space where a street light should’ve resided. Mr. Fagan chose to plant flowers in the tiny median space and created a whimsical story on it. Imaginatively, he said leprechauns snuck out in the middle of the night and created the tiny park. Furthermore, he added that he made a wish to a leprechaun for a park and thus, the tiny space was given. For decades, children have been fascinated by the whimsical tale and enjoy visiting the tiny park. Who says that adults can’t enjoy whimsical tales, too?

Do yourself a favor and add this to your itinerary list.

21. Take a Guided Brewery Tour

Portland is serious about its craft beers, and you will learn why after your first taste! In fact, the city is so serious about its craft beer that there are 70 breweries throughout Portland. And I assure you: Each brewery has its own flavors and recipes.

So, with that many breweries dotted throughout the city, how are you supposed to choose the best one to visit?

Treat yourself to a guided tour through the breweries. Yes, it is real!

Brewvana and BeerQuest Walking Tours are my two favorite guided brewery tours. They walk you through the greatest breweries in Portland so you can taste test a drink from each one. Doesn’t that approach make it much easier to determine YOUR favorite brewery? I think so.

Try several flavors and find your go-to craft beer. You will never want to leave the city!

22. Pioneer Courthouse Square

You can’t visit Portland and NOT walk through the Pioneer Courthouse Square. This place is the heart of the city and where all the locals gather just to hang out, take a break from shopping, or grab quick photos with their friends and loved ones.

Walking through the Square will give you the truest Portland experience and make you feel like a local. The buildings and architecture are superb and there is always something ongoing in this space. Believe it or not, around 25,000 people visit the Pioneer Courthouse Square on a regular basis! That’s a lot of footsteps on the sidewalk bricks. (And speaking of the sidewalk bricks, most of them were purchased by donors who placed a brick in honor of a loved one.)

I, personally, enjoy the food trucks that frequent the Pioneer Courthouse Square. You can eat the best fish tacos your taste buds have ever encountered! They are even better if a summer concert is ongoing in the amphitheater portion of the Square.

23. Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden

Located in Grant Park, the Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden is an exciting place to visit! If you read the children books by famed author, Beverly Cleary, then you will know the identity three statues. (Or, if you have children who enjoy Beverly Cleary’s books, this would be a great place to take them and quiz them on their character knowledge!) You will see the statue of a dog, boy, and girl having fun in the splashing water. The names of these characters are Ribsy, Henry Huggins, and Ramona Quimby! Don’t worry if you had already forgotten their names; the story titles and names are listed beneath the statues.

The reason for these fun statues existing in the park is to pay homage to Beverly Cleary: Portland is her hometown!

24. The National Hat Museum

If you are a hat lover, the National Hat Museum is a MUST-SEE. You will find hundreds of hats on display that cover nearly all genres and time periods. There are hats from the posh Victorian and Edwardian periods, World War I and II periods, and more. You will also find retro hats, funny hats, and specific internationally-styled hats. You name it, they have it!

The museum is located in the Ladd-Reingold house that was constructed in the early 1900’s. So, not only does this place have many, amazing hats, but its location is historically spectacular. The house reminds me of something you would see in a movie with its many hiding places. Some of the doors are backwards and there are several pocket doors. And I have yet to understand why a mermaid resides on the dining room ceiling? Regardless, it adds to the vibe and aesthetic feel of the entire place.

Long story short, if you love hats, this is the place to be!

25. The Windows of Wonders

The last thing on my list is the Windows of Wonders in downtown Portland. It is another creative expression to the city that makes it stand out from all other cities. You won’t find a ton of tourists pouring into this place because most of them won’t know about its existence. But, you will!

The Windows of Wonders is a special gallery that consists of a storefront window with a miniature world of wonder. (Have you noticed the Portlanders love everything about miniature things?) The artistic creation gives the illusion of peering into another world despite its small size. It doesn’t matter what time of the day you visit the storefront window as it is always lit up for being viewed and admired.

Every piece of the Windows of Wonders is made of recycled wood. You may see imaginative creatures or whimsical nature scenes. Regardless, it takes you back to your childhood with visions of an imaginary world and all the magic held within.

The art is created by Hilary Pfeifer who lives in Portland. She has created many exhibits for display throughout the city for everyone’s imagination to be exercised. After all, it is things like this were the locals strive to Keep Portland Weird.

Bonus Things To Do:

Omsi museum.

Coming soon….

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Portland, Oregon

Straddling the banks of the winding Willamette River, Portland is Oregon’s largest city, being home to roughly half of the state’s entire population. While its lively yet laidback atmosphere, thriving cultural scene and wealth of wonderful gardens all make it a very desirable place to live, the ‘City of Roses’ is also an increasingly popular tourist destination.

Once a grimy port city, it is now instead known for its brilliant craft breweries, coffee shops and counterculture scene. As it is divided into lots of different neighborhoods, there are always new things to do in Portland with lovely parks and gardens scattered throughout town.

Add in all the stunning scenery and nature that lies nearby, its magnificent dining scene and interesting historic tourist attractions, and it is no wonder that Portland is such a great place to visit.

Map of Portland

17. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

A very popular and picturesque place to wander around, Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is home to an astounding array of colorful flowers, plants and trees. Set just fifteen minutes’ drive to the southeast of the centre, it is named for its numerous springs with stupendous scenery and nature wherever you look.

Established in 1950, the gorgeous garden now contains more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas and other plants all lovingly laid out alongside pretty paths and ponds. While visiting during fall is a treat due to its fabulous foliage, spring and summer are equally rewarding as all kinds of colorful flowers are in bloom.

16. Portland Farmers Market

As the city is located in one of the most fertile agricultural areas in the country, no visit can ever be complete without stopping by the fantastic Portland Farmers’ Market. Such is its staggering success, it now operates six markets around town with Tuesday being the only day the vendors take off.

While most only open during the sunny summer months, the flagship Saturday market at Portland State University operates year-round. Widely considered to be one of the best farmers’ markets in the States, it has hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods and hot coffee to peruse with live music and cooking demos also on offer.

15. Willamette Valley Wine Tasting

Thanks to its fertile surroundings, Portland is also a wonderful place to go wine tasting with over five hundred wineries located in the Willamette Valley alone. With so many to stop by and so much stunning scenery to take in, it is well worth taking a few days to explore the valley or a tour which takes you around its verdant vineyards.

Particularly known for its Pinot noir, the rural region also produces Pinot gris, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Sauvignon alongside other kinds of grapes. In atmospheric tasting rooms you try delicious wines paired with local produce while basking in beautiful views over the vineyards and learning how the wines are produced.

14. Oregon Zoo

Another of the park and Portland’s top attractions is the brilliant Oregon Zoo which lies not far from both lovely gardens. Home to an astounding array of animals from all around the world, its spacious enclosures and exhibits are a treat to explore and are very popular with locals and tourists alike.

Founded in 1888, the zoo now contains more than 1,800 animals with elephants and orangutans to be spotted next to lions, bears and pandas. While some areas focus on animals and ecosystems from the Pacific Northwest, others instead transport you to Africa, Asia and the Arctic with educational shows and even concerts also taking place at the zoo.

13. Portland Art Museum

Home to lots of incredible paintings, sculptures and drawings, the excellent Portland Art Museum can be found right in the heart of downtown. Set across three buildings are exquisite exhibitions on Native American art and galleries full of Asian artworks with masterpieces by Monet, Picasso and Renoir also on show among others.

Impressively the oldest museum in the Pacific Northwest, it was founded in 1892 with its collection now encompassing more than 42,000 artworks. As you amble about the massive museum, you’ll see everything from gorgeous Japanese screen prints and sparkling silverwork to contemporary photo displays and visual arts installations.

12. Multnomah Falls

Just half an hour’s drive to the east of the city you can find one of the most spectacular sights in the state – the majestic Multnomah Falls. Towering to 620 feet in height, it makes for some fabulous photos and is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest.

Set in a very scenic spot, the falls flow down two craggy cliffs with verdant foliage and undergrowth lying all around them. Besides gazing up at their glittering waters from down below or from the small footbridge that crosses the lower cascades, visitors can also hike to their top for even more phenomenal panoramas.

11. Portland Japanese Garden

Yet another peaceful and picturesque place to spend some time in the city is the marvelous Portland Japanese Garden which lies just a short drive from the center. Set within Washington Park, it has pretty paths, ponds and pagodas for you to enjoy with little stone lanterns and streams dotted about.

Since being founded in 1967, the gardens have grown and grown and now have lots of delightfully different areas for guests to explore. While some feature cascading ponds and waterfalls, others are home to mosses, ferns and shrubs with traditional tea houses and cherry blossom trees also on show.

10. International Rose Test Garden

As Portland is known as the ‘City of Roses’, no visit to town can ever be complete without taking a leisurely stroll around the International Rose Test Garden. Also part of Washington Park, it sprawls over a huge area with colorful flowers, fountains and manicured lawns wherever you look.

The oldest garden of its kind in the country, it was first opened to the public in 1917 and now boasts over 10,000 rose bushes of some six hundred or so varieties. The best time to visit is between April and September as all the flowers are in bloom and their sweet scents waft through the air.

9. Forest Park

Portland visitors seeking an outdoor wilderness adventure may not realize it’s closer than they think. The city’s Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United State. It was envisioned in 1903 by the sons of the man who designed New York City’s Central Park, but it didn’t become a reality until 1948.

The park, located in the Tualatin Mountains, overlooks northwest Portland. The park offers more than 80 miles of trails for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. Users must stay on their allotted trails to avoid harming the lush vegetation and wildlife.

8. Portland Aerial Tram

Passengers on the Portland Aerial Tram can get a bird’s eye view of the city as they ride 500 feet above the city. The tram travels from South Waterfront to Marquam Hill, passing over houses, businesses and freeways. The trip four minutes as the tram cars zoom along at 22 mph.

The tram cars hold 79 people and include commuters as well as visiting passengers. The upper level has an observation deck, with views stretching as far away as Oregon’s iconic Mt. Hood and Washington’s Mt. Saint Helens. The upper terminal also has an enclosed sky bridge that is the largest in North America.

7. Pittock Mansion

Nestled among the woods of the West Hills is one of Portland’s most loved landmarks: the Pittock Mansion. Newspaper publisher Henry Pittock started construction on the French Renaissance-style chateau in 1909. It was finished in 1914, just five years before his death in 1919.

The mansion featured 46 eclectically decorated rooms overlooking downtown Portland. The city bought the house in 1964, sinking millions of dollars into its restoration. Some visitors may recognize the house since it’s starred in several films and TV shows, including First Love, Unhinged and The Amazing Race.

6. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Science buffs won’t want to miss out seeing the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, known locally as OMSI, when they visit Portland. The museum offers a host of exhibits and hands-on activities dealing with natural sciences, industry and technology. OMSI also has a planetarium.

A submarine exhibit features the USS Blueback, which was featured in the movie The Hunt for Red October. Changing exhibits, such as one on food, expand its scope. A visit to OMSI could easily be combined with a visit to the Oregon Zoo since they are adjacent to each other.

5. Portland Saturday Market

Shoppers looking for something different in the way of arts and crafts, handmade clothing and jewelry, or food likely will be able to find these items and a whole lot more at the Portland Saturday Market. This popular market draws about a million visitors during its open months of March through December.

The non-profit group, which has been operating the market since 1974, lists 350 vendor/members who sell their wares at Waterfront Park in the Old Town/Chinatown neighborhood. The name Portland Saturday Market may be a misnomer, however, since the market also is open on Sunday.

4. Grotto Gardens

Portland is a very pretty city, but it can also be a very busy one. A good place to escape the hustle and bustle is the Grotto Gardens, known officially as the Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother. This national Catholic shrine is dedicated to Mary and operated by the Order of the Friar Servants of Mary.

You don’t have to be Catholic, however, to experience the sense of peace and serenity the garden has. Lush greenery provides an oasis of quiet and has been since 1924. The centerpiece of the garden is Our Lady Grotto, a statue of Mary carved into a 110-foot high cliff.

3. Lan Su Chinese Garden

Travelers who want to experience a traditional Chinese garden without having to visit the Middle Kingdom should head, instead, for Lan Su Chinese Garden. Since one of Portland’s sister cities is Suzhou, China, it was only natural for Suzhou artisans to travel here to recreate a Ming Dynasty garden.

This botanical garden is based on the Chinese tradition of melding design, architecture and nature in a harmonious setting. Also known as “the Garden of Awakening Orchids,” Lan Su Chinese Garden showcases plants, some quite rare, that are native to China. A traditional tea house offers visitors a place to relax.

2. Pearl District

The name Pearl District may be a misnomer. While visitors may be able to find pearl jewelry there, the area got its name because of its trendiness. As one of Portland’s hottest neighborhoods, it’s full of great restaurants, art galleries, unique boutiques and businesses that want to be where it’s all happening in downtown Portland.

Book lovers will especially love the Pearl District since its home to the original Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent book seller that has more than a million new and used books in 3,500 sections for sale.

1. Washington Park

Washington Park is one of the city’s oldest parks, dating back to 1891. As such, it is filled with history and some of the best known tourist attractions in Portland. There are memorials to the Lewis & Clark Expedition and their guide, Sacajawea.

The park center is home to the cast-iron Chiming Fountain that features gargoyles at the base.It was created by a Swiss woodcarver who modeled it after a Renaissance fountain.

Plus, the city’s first zoo was located here. The park is also home to one of the most highly ranked Japanese garden in North America and the outstanding Rose Garden, the flower Portland is famous for. Because Washington Park is so popular, parking is limited during the summer months; the city recommends MAX Light Rail instead.

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February 10, 2020 at 1:06 pm

OMSI and the Oregon Zoo have not been adjacent in decades. OMSI is now down on the Willamette River, where the submarine is located.

The best places to visit in Oregon: 5 exciting itineraries

I f you’re planning a visit to Oregon, it can be difficult to choose the right Oregon itinerary. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon is a beautiful, yet incredibly diverse state. Within one day, you can travel from sea to mountains, from rain forest to high desert.

So with such an abundance of natural beauty to experience, you’ll want to choose an itinerary that will make the most of your time. Here are five Oregon itineraries that will help you do just that.

These five itineraries will explore Oregon’s seven wonders, the Oregon Coast, the Oregon Outback, Portland Oregon, and part of the Oregon Trail. These are the best places to visit in Oregon.

Oregon Wonders Itinerary

The Oregon Wonders itinerary covers Oregon’s wide range of climates, allowing you to experience a little of everything Oregon has to offer. This loop starts and ends in Portland.

First, see Oregon’s temperate rain forest as you drive east from Portland, through the Columbia River Gorge towards Multnomah Falls , the tallest waterfall in Oregon.

Then continue east to the beautiful Mt. Hood . Go for a hike at Mt. Hood, like to Ramona Falls. Or visit Timberline Lodge, where The Shining was filmed.

Next, travel further East to experience Oregon’s high desert. In the Wallowa Mountains , take a gondola ride from Wallowa Lake Village to the top of Mt. Howard, where you can see to the next state over.

Admire the warm colors of the Painted Hills , and go hiking or rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park .

Then, visit Oregon’s only national park, Crater Lake National Park . And finally, drive along the Oregon Coast for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean before returning to Portland.

The best time of year to plan this road trip is typically in July, August, or September, when the roads are open in Crater Lake.

However, July and August tend to be particularly hot months in Smith Rock. So it’s best to plan for an early morning hike here before the heat of the day.

Plan to spend at least ten days for this road trip. This will allow time to experience each of the Seven Wonders of Oregon , plus some travel time.

Oregon Coast Itinerary

This itinerary takes you along Oregon’s ruggedly beautiful coastline. Highway 101 , also known as the Pacific Coast Highway , runs for 363 miles down Oregon’s western most border.

This Oregon Coast road trip starts in Astoria and ends in Brookings, Oregon’s northern and southern most cities.

Along the way you’ll see 3 haystack rocks, in Cannon Beach (the rock filmed in The Goonies), Pacific City , and Bandon. You’ll visit two aquariums, in Seaside and Newport, where Keiko once lived. And visit 7 of Oregon’s 11 lighthouses.

Also, explore a shipwreck near Astoria, a ghost forest in Neskowin, and a sea lion cave near Florence. Plus, go whale watching from the world’s smallest bay in Depot Bay. Then, learn about our impact on the oceans at the Washed Ashore Art Gallery in Bandon.

And all along the way, enjoy delicious food. Many restaurants on the coast serve fresh seafood and warm clam chowder with stunning views of the ocean.

But be sure to eat at the Pronto Pup in Rockaway Beach , where the corn dog was invented! Then enjoy ice cream and squeaky cheese (cheese curds) at the Tillamook cheese factory.

You could easily travel the Oregon coast in about 8 hours if you drove straight through, but you’d miss out on so much beauty and adventure along the way. Instead, plan to spend about 1 to 2 weeks to complete this itinerary, depending on how many coastal towns you want to stop in.

Oregon Outback Itinerary

The Oregon Outback itinerary will take you to a one-horse town in the high desert of Central Oregon. This is the best itinerary to choose if you love to hike, don’t mind a little dust in your boots, and want to avoid the crowds. This is the road less traveled.

Book your stay at one of two motels in Christmas Valley. About 4 hours and 30 minutes southeast of Portland, this small town is centrally located to several amazing and unique hikes in the area.

There are three major hikes worth checking out here. First, hike through a narrow, rocky canyon at Crack in the Ground. Then, be sure to bring a headlamp to explore the depths of Derrick Cave, an old lava tunnel.

And lastly, hike the perimeter of Fort Rock, an ancient volcano, as you watch for jack rabbits sprinting across the landscape. Then visit the outdoor museum, Fort Rock Homestead Village, for a taste of what life was once like in this Wild West.

Enjoy a hearty dinner one night at the Cowboy Dinner Tree. Just be sure to reserve your seat well in advance. They may have a rather remote location, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t booked solid!

Plan to spend about five days for this road trip. That gives two full days for travel and leaves three full days for hiking and exploring Oregon’s Outback.

At the end of this vacation, you’ll have experienced Oregon, untamed and untainted in its raw and natural beauty.

Portland, Oregon Itinerary

This itinerary is all about how to spend three perfect days in Portland, Oregon. And it’s the perfect itinerary for those who prefer the city or are only able to make a short visit to Oregon.

There’s a lot more to Portland than the rain. For starters, it has a great food and restaurant scene, with a strong affinity for coffee shops and microbreweries.

Portland is also known for its love of dogs and bikes, and for its many parks, gardens and bridges. But with so much to see and do, this guide will help you see the best highlights of the city.

Day One : Start the day with brunch at one of Portland’s many delicious brunching restaurants. A few excellent options include Broder Söder, Jam Cafe, or The Tin Shed ( a dog-friendly dining option! ).

Then, visit Powell’s books, the largest used book store in the world. Later, enjoy a cup of tea at the Lan Su Chinese Gardens . End the day with amazing views of Portland from the Portland Aerial Tram or Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

Day Two : On your second day, set out to explore the neighborhoods, admire the street art , and eat lunch at a food truck pod. Or get outdoors and go for an afternoon hike in Forest Park to discover the witch’s hut.

Day Three : On your final day in Portland, visit the International Rose Test Gardens and the Japanese Gardens at Washington Park. Then play around at Portland’s new and interactive art museum, Hopscotch. End your trip with drinks from one of Portland’s roof top bars.

If you have extra time, you can plan a day trip from Portland . Visit the Oregon Coast, head east to Mt. Hood, or travel south to Silver Falls State Park.

Oregon Trail Itinerary

Follow the path pioneers once took through Oregon on this Oregon Trail itinerary. Walk in the deep ruts of old covered wagons and imagine what it must have been like to traverse this country before the convenience of our smooth, paved freeways.

The Oregon Trail originated in Kansas and Missouri and spanned a total of seven states. However, this road trip focuses on the stretch of trail in Oregon.

Since I-84 roughly parallels the Oregon Trail through Oregon, there are two ways to approach this road trip. Option one is to drive east on I-84 from Portland to Baker City and back again. Or, option two is to fly into Boise, Idaho, rent a car, and drive west on I-84 to Portland.

The main highlight of this Oregon itinerary is the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City, Oregon. At the interpretive center, discover an outdoor recreation of a covered wagon camp, watch live historical re-enactments, and hike alongside wagon ruts. This site covers 500 acres and includes over four miles of hiking.

Note: The Interpretive Center is currently closed for remodeling and has moved to a temporary location. For latest updates, visit their site here .

From Baker City, follow the trail west through the Grande Ronde Valley and over the Blue Mountains. Marvel at the Columbia River as you drive through the Gorge to The Dalles, where many pioneers rafted their wagons down the river.

TIP : Other locations to hike along actual Oregon Trail ruts are at Birch Creek near Huntington and Echo Meadows near Hermiston, Oregon.

While many pioneers settled in Oregon, others continued on to Washington. However this particular road trip ends in Portland, Oregon. Plan to spend about three to four days for this road trip.

Final Thoughts on Oregon Itineraries

From ocean to high desert, from the bustling city to dusty country roads, these five Oregon itineraries are sure to have a little something for everyone.

And whichever of these itineraries you choose, you’re sure to be stunned by Oregon’s beauty and diversity.

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Best places to visit in oregon.

Oregon offers some of the West Coast's most captivating scenery. Moody coastline, lush mountains and mesmerizing waterfalls are abundant, and lucky for travelers, many are easily accessible from nearby towns and cities. U.S. News took into account dining – another one of the state's standout attributes – as well as affordability, sights, traveler sentiment and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Oregon. Want to put in your two cents? Be sure to vote below to influence next year's list.

Crater Lake National Park

Cannon beach, willamette valley, silver falls state park, newport, or, portland, or, john day fossil beds national monument, seaside, or, florence, or, mount bachelor, oregon dunes national recreation area, newberry national volcanic monument.

Formed 7,700 years ago after Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed, Crater Lake is America's deepest lake and makes for a superb lake vacation . Today, you can admire Crater Lake National Park's rich blue water and towering mountains during a boat or trolley tour, a scenic drive along the rim or a hike on one of its many trails. In winter, some roads are closed and visibility may be poor due to clouds and snowstorms. But if you don't mind these potential drawbacks, you can enjoy fun winter activities like sledding, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

A top destination on the Oregon Coast, Cannon Beach features a nearly 4-mile-long shoreline with tide pools and sand dunes in addition to its most well-known attribute, the 235-foot-tall Haystack Rock. Once you've gotten your fill of this breathtaking beach, hop in the car and visit nearby Oswald West State Park, which offers great hiking, surfing and fishing opportunities. Or, stay in town to check out Cannon Beach's art galleries and watch experts make glass art at Icefire Glassworks.

Powder hounds and nature lovers take note – Mount Hood is one of Oregon's best places to enjoy outdoor activities. The state's tallest mountain towers more than 11,000 feet above sea level and is reputed to be the second-most climbed peak in the world. Its perpetually snow-covered peaks are home to six ski areas that offer the longest ski season in North America, with Timberline Lodge open 10 months of the year. You can also ski after dark at Mount Hood Skibowl, which boasts the nation's largest terrain for night skiing. In the warmer months, take a scenic hike or drive through the mountain's forest.

Willamette Valley is to Oregon what Napa Valley is to California. This destination is home to two-thirds of Oregon's wineries and vineyards, totaling more than 700 wineries for the entire region. Come here to wine and fine dine for days, and be sure to sample as much pinot noir as you can, since it is Willamette Valley's specialty. When you're not wine tasting, enjoy a relaxing soak in one of Willamette Valley's hot springs.

Oregon's largest state park is one of the state's most unique and scenic natural attractions because of its jaw-dropping waterfalls. The Trail of Ten Falls hiking path loops through the park and takes you above, below and even behind its 10 waterfalls, including the 177-foot-tall South Falls. What's more, Silver Falls State Park offers 35-plus miles of backcountry trails that can be used for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking. When you've worked up an appetite, venture to the park's South Falls Day-use area to enjoy a picnic or barbecue lunch.

Hood River's location in the Columbia River Gorge makes it a prime place for outdoor pursuits. The 80-mile-long valley is known for its stunning collection of waterfalls (think: Multnomah Falls and Starvation Creek Falls) accessible via various hiking trails. It's also considered the windsurfing capital of the world and an excellent destination for other water sports like kiteboarding and sailing. After a long day of adventuring, travelers can unwind with a beer or two at one of the town's microbreweries.

If you're after hearty hikes and delectable eats, Bend is the place for you. This small city has a dining scene that foodies fawn over, complete with food carts, breweries and even cider houses. Bend is also a jumping-off point for numerous natural attractions, including the Deschutes National Forest, which features multiple rivers, mountains and scenic byways. Ample opportunities for outdoor recreation like skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking in summer and rock climbing in spring and fall make Bend appealing year-round.

Of all of the cute coastal towns Oregon has to offer, families will probably appreciate Newport the most. The town, located on Oregon's central coast, features kid-friendly attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Oregon State University's Hatfield Marine Science Center and several beaches. Newport also provides numerous outdoor attractions suited for adults, including scenic Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and the equally picturesque Ocean to Bay Trail.

Located on the southern Oregon Coast just 6 miles north of the California border, Brookings offers outdoorsy travelers the perfect Pacific Northwest welcome, with rugged coastline views and natural splendor to explore. Head to Harris Beach State Park for its sandy beach, tide pools, tufted puffins and views of sea stacks on the shoreline. Then, drive up the coast on the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor for 12 miles of breathtaking ocean vistas. While the town itself is small, you can catch a movie at the local cinema, grab a beer at Chetco Brewing Company or stroll through Azalea Park.

Portland has one of the most dynamic (and affordable) food scenes in the USA, so you'll likely spend the bulk of your time enjoying the city's many culinary offerings, from Voodoo Doughnut to Eastern European fare at Kachka. In between meals and snacks, visit one of Portland's many parks or cultural sights, such as Forest Park (one of the largest urban parks in the country), the Portland Art Museum (the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest) or Powell's City of Books (the largest independent bookstore in the world).

Fans may recognize Astoria as the setting of "The Goonies," and you'll find several iconic film sites in town, such as the original Goonies house and the Oregon Film Museum, which was featured in the opening scene. But beyond its film history (more than a dozen movies have been filmed here), Astoria holds rich heritage. Its location on the Columbia River near the Pacific Ocean made it a prime fur trading post in the 1800's, and many of Astoria's attractions are dedicated to maritime history. Today, visitors can take in the town's Victorian houses, climb the 125-foot Astoria Column or dine at local breweries and bistros.

As its name suggests, this protected area is famed for having one of the most complete fossil records in the world, spanning more than 40 million years. Visitors can hike through and explore fossils and rock layers in the park's three separate units. Sheep Rock Unit, home to the monument's visitor center which features exhibits and a working lab, is the best starting point. But you won't want to miss the Painted Hills Unit, which woos visitors with distinguishing layered rocks, and the Clarno Unit, which boasts jutting Palisades (rock towers formed from volcanic mudslides).

Seaside is an exceptional vacation destination because it's a gateway to some of the most notable attractions on the Oregon Coast. From this small town of less than 8,000 residents, visitors can reach Tillamook Head, Ecola State Park and Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. All can be found within 15 miles of Seaside, presenting plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Seaside also offers several can't-miss attractions, such as a beachfront promenade, the Seaside Aquarium and Captain Kid Amusement Park.

Florence appeals to travelers keen on spending their next vacation outdoors. One of this coastal town's best assets is its proximity to Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, but Florence is worth a visit in and of itself. Visitors can explore Sea Lion Caves, the largest sea cave in the country, ride horses on the beach, fish on the area's many lakes and play golf on a coastal course. Don't forget to save time for visiting the Heceta Head Lighthouse and Historic Old Town Florence, where you'll find shops, art galleries and the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum.

With 4,300-plus skiable acres and the highest skiable elevation in the state, Mount Bachelor is one of the country's top ski destinations . While there are plenty of trails for experienced skiers, Mount Bachelor also offers runs designed for beginners, as well as free and discounted ski lift tickets for first-timers. The mountain, which is a dormant volcano about 20 miles southwest of Bend, receives an average of 462 inches of snowfall annually from late November to May. The fun doesn't stop after ski season, though, when visitors can trade their ski poles and snowboards for mountain bikes and hiking shoes.

This endless sea of sand is best described as otherworldly. In fact, this locale inspired Frank Herbert to write his sci fi book, "Dune." To catch an eyeful of the park's tallest dunes, hike the John Dellenback Dunes Trail. Once you've exhausted yourself from walking on dry sand (trust us, it won't take long), opt for a high-speed ATV or dune buggy ride, or hop on a sandboard. Then, enjoy some shade in the coastal forest at Tahkenitch, or look for wildlife at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area.

Foodies and outdoor lovers will love visiting Tillamook. This small town in northwestern Oregon is an outdoor recreation hub where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, crabbing, clamming and fishing, among other activities. After an active day, you'll find no shortage of places to satisfy your appetite. Tillamook is perhaps most famous for its dairy industry, so no trip here would be complete without touring the Tillamook Creamery and sampling its cheese and ice cream. Also save time for trying local brews at one of downtown Tillamook's breweries.

Situated roughly 12 miles south of Bend in the Deschutes National Forest, Newberry National Volcanic Monument features one of Oregon's most unique landscapes. The monument's nearly 55,000 acres are filled with lava flows and other fascinating geological features, including a lava river cave and a lava field where NASA astronauts trained to walk on the moon in the '60s. There's also Paulina Peak, which you can climb to the top of for incredible views. When you're not hiking, go biking, boating or fishing.

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10 ways to experience Oregon on a budget

Apr 23, 2024 • 5 min read

Oregon is like dozens of vacation destinations rolled into one.

In addition to the natural beauty of its many landscapes, the Beaver State is home to vineyards, dazzling cities and exciting cultural events like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival . The only catch? With so many options, you can easily spend a fortune on your itinerary.

Luckily, this doesn’t have to be the case. With a little planning, you can visit Oregon on a budget. These travel hacks will help you see bucket list Oregon locations – like the Pacific Ocean, Crater Lake National Park and cities like Portland – without breaking the bank.

Daily costs in Oregon

Dorm lodging in a hostel: $28
Basic hotel room for two: $100
Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb:) $110
Camping fees: $17 for a tent site
Public transportation: $5.60 for a day pass in Portland
Coffee $3–6 a cup
Sandwich: $10
Dinner for two: $50
Wine tasting: $15

A cyclist rides along a path in a city's riverside park

Skip the rental car

Save yourself the money and hassle of renting a car on your next trip to Portland. Many of the city’s top attractions are walkable from downtown, plus you’ll find bike shares and scooter rentals on virtually every corner. If you need to venture further, a day pass for Portland’s TriMet transportation system (including light rail, commuter rail and bus service throughout the metro area) is just $5.60.

Oregon’s inter-city bus line, Point , offers affordable transportation for longer distances. The scenic Northwest route from Portland to Astoria is a popular way to get to the coast since tickets are only $18 each way. Once you arrive, downtown Astoria is walkable. During warmer months, you can take a ride on the historic riverfront trolley for just $2 a day.

Local tip: If you’re arriving by air, catch the light rail at the south end of the PDX terminal building.

See the very best of Oregon with our guide to the top places to visit

Visit the beach during the shoulder season

The Oregon coast is most popular from Memorial Day through the end of September. This means lodging comes at a premium. You’ll save money if you plan your visit outside of that time frame. The weather can be quite lovely in spring and fall and the beaches are far less crowded. Even stormy winter days are beautiful on the coast when waves crash on the surf.

Purchase your lift tickets in advance

If you’re planning a ski trip to a destination like Timberline or Mt Bachelor , you’ll save money by purchasing your lift ticket online. If your plans are flexible, search for a few different dates to find the best deal. Most of the time you’ll get a better price the farther you book in advance. Since ski season in Oregon usually lasts through April or May, there are plenty of dates to choose from.

An alpine area covered with snow and a vast lake

Explore Southern Oregon

In addition to attractions like Crater Lake National Park , Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Southern Oregon is home to fantastic vineyards and wineries. Besides being an amazing vacation destination, lodging, restaurants, and activities like wine tasting usually cost less than they do in hot spots like Portland or Willamette Valley. Base yourself in Grants Pass, Ashland or Klamath Falls to save money without sacrificing memorable experiences.

Book hotel rooms or rental houses during the week

Most hotels and rental homes are cheaper on weekdays than they are on weekends. If you aren’t tied to a specific date, try playing with booking platforms to see how much your stay will cost on different days of the week. You can put the money you save towards meals or transportation.

Take advantage of free or discounted museum days

Many of Oregon’s best museums offer free or discounted admission to the public regularly. Examples include free admission to the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton on the first Friday of every month, free admission to the Portland Art Museum on the first Thursday of every month, or $5 admission to the Omni Museum of Science and Industry on the first Sunday of every month. Free admission and discount programs are usually listed on museum websites.

Stay in a hostel

Forge friendships with fellow travelers and save big bucks on lodging with accommodations at properties like Portland Hostel , where dorm-style beds cost as little as $36 a night. If you’re traveling to the Oregon coast, a shared room at the Seaside Lodge and International Hostel can be yours for about $50 a night. In Southern Oregon, shared rooms at Ashland Commons Hostel are as little as $28 a night.

Time your visit to Oregon just right with this seasonal guide

Two women prepare a meal at a picnic table beside an RV camper parked in a scenic tree-lined campsite

Oregon’s state parks are not only beautiful, they are excellent places to stay . Although prices at individual parks vary, you can generally expect to pay about $17 a night for a tent site, between $30–40 for a non-resident RV site, and about $50 a night for a yurt or rustic cabin. For exact rates, search for your dates and desired location online.

Snag a wine-tasting passport

Tasting fees at Oregon’s wineries typically run from $15–25 a person, although they can easily cost more, depending on the winery. If you’re visiting several wineries, it can put a serious dent in your budget. The Heart of Willamette Passport offers free or discounted tastings at wineries in the Corvallis area for a one-time fee of $45. If you’re traveling with a plus one, a second passport can be purchased at a $5 discount.

Seek out happy hours

Happy hour is hardly a new concept but the discounts are especially rewarding in a food-centric city like Portland. Find $5 cocktails and two tacos for $5 at Pig Patas Tacos or $10 chicken sandwiches with half-off bottles of wine at Radio Room . There are plenty of great happy hours in other parts of the state, too, including $6 for poutine and wings plus discounted drinks at Taproot Lounge and Cafe in Salem.

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This Oregon coast inn is one of the best beach resorts in the country

Updated: Apr. 22, 2024, 8:19 a.m. |
Published: Apr. 22, 2024, 6:04 a.m.

An aerial shot of the hotel with the ocean and Haystack Rock in the background

Mims Copeland | The Oregonian/OregonLive

The Stephanie Inn , a popular Oregon coast destination for decades, has another accolade to add to its collection.

The 42-room Cannon Beach resort is the only property in the Pacific Northwest that made the cut for Travel+Leisure’s list of the “15 Best Beach Resorts in the U.S.”

The magazine likes the well-equipped rooms overlooking Haystack Rock and says, “Part of the appeal of Stephanie Inn is community; every day, guests are invited to mingle over a wine and beer gathering in the library as well as an evening nightcap around the fire.”

Long known as a romantic destination (in part because the hotel does not allow guests under 12 years old), the Stephanie Inn boasts a spa with offerings including a 90-minute “Lavender Body Melt” for $210. The award-winning restaurant serves four-course meals focusing on local ingredients for $99.

Rooms start at $339 a night right now and gradually increase to $669 or more a night in peak summer weeks.

Other non-East Coast resorts on Travel+Leisure’s unranked list are the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Mauna Lani, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and The Lodge at Kukui’ula in Hawaii; Montage Laguna Beach and Alila Marea Beach Rest Encinitas in California; and Edgewood Tahoe Resort in Nevada.

Mims Copeland is a social media producer and covers trending topics for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach her at [email protected]

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The Lyrids begin this week. How to see first major meteor shower of spring when it peaks

While the april 8 eclipse was only viewable in north america, the lyrids should be visible pretty much around the world..

A week after that stunning total solar eclipse , the Lyrid meteor shower is about to give sky-gazers plenty of reasons to once again look toward the cosmos.

One of the oldest-known meteor showers on record, the Lyrids has peaked like clockwork every late April for thousands of years. And while that peak won't be occurring until Saturday, you still have a chance to see the soaring meteors beginning Monday.

The best part? While the April 8 eclipse was only viewable in North America, the Lyrids should be visible pretty much around the world .

Here's what to know about the Lyrid meteor shower .

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Where do the Lyrid meteors come from?

Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through debris trails left by comets and other space objects. The debris – space rocks known as meteoroids – collides with Earth's atmosphere at high speed and disintegrates, creating fiery and colorful streaks in the sky, according to NASA .

Those resulting fireballs, better known as "shooting stars," are meteors. Those meteoroids that survive their trip to Earth without burning up in the atmosphere are called meteorites, NASA says .

Named for the nearby constellation Lyra, the Lyrid meteor shower is composed of pieces of debris from the Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher . The comet is named for A. E. Thatcher, who discovered it in 1861.

The meteor shower itself, though, has been observed for 2,700 years ever since the first recorded sighting was made in 687 BC by the Chinese, according to NASA .

How can we see the Lyrid meteor shower?

The Lyrids are known as one of four major meteor showers each year that have a sharp peak. This year, that peak falls between April 21-22, according to EarthSky.org .

However, the meteor shower could be visible anytime beginning Monday.

According to NASA, the best view in the Northern Hemisphere of the shower is after moonset and before dawn.

Here are tips from the U.S. space agency:

Pick an area well away from city lights or street lights.
Bring a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair.
Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up.
Be patient. About 30 minutes in the dark your eyes should adapt and you should begin to see meteors.

How many Lyrids will we see per hour?

The first meteor shower of the spring , the fast and bright meteors of the Lyrids will appear to be flying across the night sky.

While NASA notes that the Lyrids can surprise watchers with as many as 100 meteors seen per hour, in general, 10-20 Lyrid meteors can be seen per hour during the peak.

Lyrids don’t tend to leave long, glowing dust trains behind them as they streak through the Earth's atmosphere. However, they can produce the occasional bright flash called a fireball.

Watch CBS News

When and where you can see April's Pink Moon

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 22, 2024 / 4:39 PM EDT / CBS News

Astronomy fans can check out the Pink Moon this month as April's full moon rises.

April's full moon will reach peak illumination at 7:49 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, but it will appear full from Monday through Thursday morning, according to NASA . The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonrise times for different ZIP codes across the U.S.

Why is April's full moon known as the Pink Moon?

Full moon names often come from seasons, historical crops and the behavior of certain animals. The "Pink Moon" moniker unfortunately has nothing to do with the moon's color, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac. Instead, it's connected to the early springtime bloom of certain wildflowers, including one native to eastern North America often called "moss pink."

April's full moon goes by several other names, too, including Breaking Ice Moon, Moon When the Streams are Again Navigable, Budding Moon of Plants and Shrubs and Moon of the Red Grass Appearing. It also has several names connected to animals, including Moon When the Ducks Come Back, Moon When the Geese Lay Eggs, Frog Moon and Sucker Moon.

NASA notes it's also the Pesach or Passover Moon — the Jewish holiday begins this year on Monday evening. This full moon also corresponds with the Hanuman Jayanti festival on the Hindu lunisolar calendar in most regions, according to the space agency.

Look up — what else can you see in the sky this spring?

The Eta Aquariids meteor shower is estimated to peak Saturday, May 4 through Sunday, May 5. And May's full moon, the Flower Moon, reaches peak illumination on May 23.

In case you missed it, the Lyrid meteor shower peaked late Sunday night, between April 21 and 22.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

Lyrid meteor shower to peak tonight. Here's what to know

Could some species dying on Earth be saved in outer space?

Transcript: Author David Sanger on "Face the Nation," April 21, 2024

Transcript: Sen. Dan Sullivan on "Face the Nation," April 21, 2024

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23 Fun Things to Do in Portland, Oregon
The Willamette Valley is known for its pinot noirs. Tillamook (73 miles away): Visit the famous Tillamook Creamery, go for a hike in the Tillamook Forest and more. Cannon Beach (80 miles away ...
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Best Time to Visit Portland, Oregon. 1. Washington Park. Portland Japanese Garden in Washington Park. Portland's Washington Park contains a number of tourist attractions, including the famed International Rose Test Garden, a zoo, and museums. A one-time wild land first purchased by the city in 1871, it is located to the west of the city center.
Things to do in Portland
Cinema 21. Originally a single-screen theater and now a three-screen multiplex, Cinema 21 specializes in art-house, foreign and classic films and serves beer, wine and pizza along with concessions classics. There are hundreds of things to do in Portland. Our attractions - much like the city itself - are both unexpected and inspiring.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Portland
The Oregon Zoo connects communities to the wonder of wildlife to create a better future for all. Located on 64 forested acres just minutes from Portland city center, we are a hub for science, conservation, education and animal well-being delivering the highest quality of care to 165 species and subspecies.
17 Best Things to Do in Portland, Oregon Right Now
You can even join a drinking tour, where you pedal between the city's best microbreweries, or they offer customized rides to your liking. 3. Portland Art Museum. Founded in 1892, the Portland ...
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There aren't many deeply historical places to visit in the city of Portland, but Pittock Mansion is definitely among the top.. In 1853, Henry Pittock, a British-born immigrant, traveled to Oregon and settled down to work for a newspaper called the Weekly Oregonian.. A heavy believer in manifest destiny, within seven years he was the owner of the Oregonian, a daily newspaper, and had married ...
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The best things to do in Portland depend on your desired itinerary. Bibliophiles will want to check out Powell's Books, while foodies may gravitate toward one of the city's many food cart pods. Other places to visit in Portland include rose gardens; bridge crossings; and outdoor venues, like Pioneer Courthouse Square, aka Portland's Living Room.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Portland (Updated 2024)
7. Oregon Zoo: Together for Wildlife. 2,627. Zoos. The Oregon Zoo connects communities to the wonder of wildlife to create a better future for all. Located on 64 forested acres just minutes from Portland city center, we are a hub for science, conservation, education and animal well-being delivering the highest quality of care to 165 species and ...
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A popular destination for nature lovers, this arboretum contains many different species of trees. 10. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a nationally-renowned science center providing science learning to a range of audiences.
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Our top recommendations for the best things to do in Portland, Oregon, with pictures and travel tips from the editors at Condé Nast Traveler. Find fun things to do, best places to visit, unusual ...
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Chuck Palahniuk, author of the award-winning novel Fight Club. #25. Stroll down Mississippi Avenue. When most people think of Portland's quirkiness they probably envision the lively corridor that is Mississippi Avenue, which is why exploring this area is one of the best things to do in Portland.
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Some of the best things to do in Portland include walking in nature and visiting beautiful gardens, ... this is one of the best places in Portland for people-watching. ... 8 of the best places to visit in Oregon. Apr 17, 2024 • 6 min read. Destination Practicalities. Exploring Oregon by car, train, bus or bicycle ...
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Columbia River Gorge. Columbia River Gorge is a designated National Scenic Area just 40 minutes from downtown Portland. There are plenty of hikes to be enjoyed, including scenic waterfalls and mountain bike trails. One of the most popular sights is the Multnomah waterfall, which can be seen from the roadside.
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1) Explore Forest Park. At just over 5,000 acres, Forest Park is one of the country's biggest urban forests. This sprawling green space in the Tualatin Mountains is located just west of downtown Portland. Full of hiking trails, wildlife, fresh air, and lots of greenery, Forest Park is the perfect escape from the city.
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1. Washington Park, a calm place to visit in Portland, OR. Washington Park is a beautiful public urban park and one of Portland's main attractions. It has a little bit of everything - gardens, monuments, recreation areas, public art, and miles of forest trails. There are even two museums and an arboretum.
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13. Drink Some Beer. Portland is one of the beer capitals of America. There are over 70 microbreweries in the city — more than any other city in the country — and Portlandians take their beer seriously. The craft beer movement started here back in the '80s, well before it caught on elsewhere.
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1. The Oregon Zoo. One of the most visited attractions in Portland is the Oregon Zoo. Being a part of Washington Park, it is home to approximately 3,000 animals. At the zoo, you will discover 19 endangered species. It is a fun place to take the entire family with over 20 exciting interactive exhibits.
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97205. 100 SW Main Street. Suite 1100. 97204. 7000 NE Airport Way. 97218. Is any of the information on this page incorrect? Suggest an update. Portland is home to world-renowned chefs and hundreds of food carts; art in theaters and outside on the street; the world's largest independent bookstore and highest concentration of craft breweries; a ...
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The best time to visit Oregon for festivals, flowers and outdoorsy adventures. Apr 20, 2024 • 4 min read ... Portland and beyond: 8 of the best places to visit in Oregon. Apr 17, 2024 • 6 min read. Destination Practicalities. Exploring Oregon by car, train, bus or bicycle . Apr 17, 2024 • 4 min read. Romance. These 7 wine regions in the ...
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Snap a photo of your favorite wildlife creature at Oregon's largest zoo. Young lions at Oregon Zoo. 📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 226-1561 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am-5:30 pm Daily | Entrance: $24, Adult, $19, Ages 2-11, Free Under 2. The Oregon Zoo is one of the best places in Portland to visit with kids.
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1. Washington Park. TravelingOtter / Flickr. Washington Park is one of the city's oldest parks, dating back to 1891. As such, it is filled with history and some of the best known tourist attractions in Portland. There are memorials to the Lewis & Clark Expedition and their guide, Sacajawea.
10 EPIC Portland Viewpoints to Check Off Your List (Local's Guide)
If you'd like to spend some time exploring NW Portland, read Local's Mini-Guide to NW Portland. #5. Council Crest Park. At 1,071 feet, Council Crest Park is the highest point in the city — so yes, you're guaranteed to see some of the best views Portland has to offer!
The best places to visit in Oregon: 5 exciting itineraries
Pacific City. , and Bandon. You'll visit two aquariums, in. Seaside. and Newport, where Keiko once lived. And visit 7 of Oregon's 11 lighthouses. Also, explore a shipwreck near Astoria, a ...
18 Best Places to Visit in Oregon
Newberry National Volcanic Monument. #18 in Best Places to Visit in Oregon. Situated roughly 12 miles south of Bend in the Deschutes National Forest, Newberry National Volcanic Monument features ...
10 ways to experience Oregon on a budget
Daily costs in Oregon. Dorm lodging in a hostel: $28. Basic hotel room for two: $100. Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb:) $110. Camping fees: $17 for a tent site. Public transportation: $5.60 for a day pass in Portland. Coffee $3-6 a cup. Sandwich: $10. Dinner for two: $50.
This Oregon coast inn is one of the best beach resorts in the country
The 42-room Cannon Beach resort is the only property in the Pacific Northwest that made the cut for Travel+Leisure's list of the "15 Best Beach Resorts in the U.S."
Lyrid meteor shower 2024: How to see it and when it peaks
Here are tips from the U.S. space agency: Pick an area well away from city lights or street lights. Bring a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair. Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east ...
When and where you can see April's Pink Moon
April 21, 2024 / 3:35 PM EDT / CBS News. Astronomy fans can check out the Pink Moon this month as April's full moon rises. April's full moon will reach peak illumination at 7:49 p.m. EDT on ...