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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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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.

Read More: Best Beaches near Portland

The Oregon Zoo is another signature attraction in Washington Park . This AZA-accredited zoo encompasses 64 acres and over 2,000 animals representing several habitats. And the Oregon Zoo attracts over 1.5-million visitors each year, making it the most visited attraction in Washington Park.

The Oregon Zoo has several auxiliary things to do, including a carousel, a zoo train, and themed play areas. However, the animals are the real magnet for this family attraction. A few residents include bears, cougars, bats, giraffes, and chimpanzees.

Several viewpoints and interpretive information frame the enclosures.

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

Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard is a defining thoroughfare on the east side of Portland. It stretches for 43 blocks with consignment shops, restaurants, and places to sample the local flavors lining the entire street. Also along the route are food cart pods, comedy clubs, and coffee shops.

Hawthorne stays busy throughout the day and night, whether for brunch, a show, or some shopping. It's a very walkable district, and the 14 bus line makes several stops up and down the street.

Hawthorne isn't the only entertainment avenue on the east side. Division Street offers a similar flavor about six blocks south, and so does Belmont Street , approximately six blocks north.

The Hoyt Arboretum occupies 190 verdant acres of Washington Park , a few miles west of downtown.

Over 12 miles of hiking trails navigate this living museum of trees, with over 2,300 species growing. Placards abound in this forested space, helping identify the unique trees throughout the natural area.

A few notable hiking trails at Hoyt Arboretum include the Fir Trail Loop and Overlook Trail - featuring a fantastic vantage point of Mount Hood to the east.

The Redwood Trail is also a popular route within the arboretum. It leads to a tranquil Redwood Deck surrounded by old coastal redwoods.

Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park is on the west side of the Willamette River, next to downtown. This beacon of urban engineering was once a bustling six-lane highway before the 1970s. But today, Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a signature outdoor space with monuments, events, and an excellent view of "Bridge City."

The park stretches for 1.5 miles along the waterfront, with a paved hiking trail and ample open lawn.

Monuments and attractions also dot the public thoroughfare, including the Japanese American Historical Plaza .

Tom McCall is also home to the popular Salmon Street Springs , featuring 185 water jets; it's one of the top places to visit during summer.

Several major Portland events also take place at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The Portland Saturday Market sets up shop every week in the park underneath the Burnside Bridge. And a few annual festivals at the park include the Portland Rose Festival and the 4th of July Waterfront Blues Festival.

Mount Hood, Oregon's largest mountain, is a mere 50 miles east of the city. A few spots in Portland, like the Hoyt Arboretum or the OHSU campus, offer excellent vistas of this conical peak in the distance. But the real way to experience the mountain majesty is with a day or weekend trip to Mount Hood from Portland .

Any trip to Mount Hood enters the over-a-million-acre Mount Hood National Forest. All the hiking trails and campgrounds in this massive expanse would take a lifetime to explore.

The historic Timberline Lodge is one of the highlights of Mount Hood National Forest , with its up-close mountain view.

Tilikum Crossing Bridge is one of a dozen bridges in Portland. This beautiful cable-stayed bridge connects the city's South Waterfront and Central Eastside, south of the Interstate 5 bridge (Marquam Bridge).

The bridge is unique in design, and unique in that it only supports pedestrians and public transportation. The non-vehicle status of the Tilikum Crossing Bridge lends to its other nickname, Bridge of the People .

The bridge connects to other pedestrian trails on either end, and the views from its walking path are spectacular. Take time to appreciate the murals and additional interpretive information along the route.

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center houses three historic locomotives donated to the city. Two of these trains are fully renovated and operational, and everyone has a chance to admire these iron horses of history. The Oregon Rail Heritage Center is in Southeast Portland, near the Tilikum Bridge and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Visitors to the Heritage Center get close to these massive trains and engines. Hours upon hours of volunteer work have helped restore the trains, and on-site docents are happy to answer any questions.

Special train rides are also available throughout the summer on the third Saturday of each month.

Official site: https://orhf.org/

One of the country's best waterfall corridors is a quick drive north of Portland. The renowned Columbia River Gorge is the state dividing line between western Oregon and western Washington. And the Oregon side of the gorge has a spectacular lineup of waterfall attractions.

Several of Oregon's most famous waterfalls line the side of the Historic Columbia River Highway within the gorge. This collection includes the 620-foot Multnomah Falls , spanning two tiers on either side of the historic Benson Bridge.

But this tallest waterfall in Oregon isn't the only gravity on display, with several of the best waterfalls near Portland lining the entire river canyon.

As of 2022, you need to obtain a Waterfall Corridor Permit to visit some of the most popular waterfalls in the gorge during the summer. This permitted area includes Multnomah Falls.

Mount Tabor is one of many crown jewels in Portland's park system . It encompasses an ancient and extinct volcanic vent in East Portland, giving the landscape a unique elevation and quite the view.

At approximately 175 acres, the park has plenty of room for several activities. An expansive trail network weaves throughout the park and toward the summit. These trails connect several amenities, including an off-leash dog park , a playground, and sports courts. The trails also lend beautiful views of the park's historical reservoirs.

The Portland Adult Soapbox Derby takes place on the hills of Mount Tabor every August, hosting an exciting downhill endeavor. Creative contraptions fill the lineup of this celebrated event.

Portland's Northwest District is one of many unique neighborhoods with its own vibe. This area, west of the river, next to the Pearl District, also encompasses a large part of Portland's Alphabet District .

Visitors today note the alphabetical street names, from Burnside to Wilson, all taken from influential city members.

The Northwest District spans approximately from Burnside to Thurman between 20th and 23rd Avenue. The two most bustling streets are 21st and 23rd Avenues .

A wide range of dining, shopping, and people-watching opportunities line this dense, tree-lined neighborhood.

The district also lends quick access to other top places to visit, like Providence Park and Washington Park .

Peninsula Park is in the Piedmont neighborhood of North Portland and is home to the city's first public rose garden . A century-old fountain anchors this submerged garden with rows and rows of roses. And while the blooming season of late spring to early fall draws ample visitors, it tends to be a more local crowd.

And it's not just roses that attract attention to this 16-acre park. It's also home to a historic community center and bandstand, alongside ample lawn space and walking paths.

Visitors also make use of the park's playground and sports facilities, including basketball and tennis courts.

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is on the Willamette River waterfront, opposite downtown, near the Marquam Bridge (Interstate-5). It's a leading science museum in the nation and features several hands-on exhibits and a continuous calendar of public programs. It also features a hard-to-miss submarine docked in the river outside.

OMSI is a popular thing to do in Portland with kids. Several STEM-based labs comprise the facility, all featuring hands-on ways to learn about science.

But adults also enjoy the intricate and detailed exhibits, many with sensory components. And a planetarium, big-screen theater, and several "after-hours" events also appeal to an older crowd.

Official site: https://omsi.edu/

Portland appeals to sports fans. Whether rooting for the Portland Timbers or Thorns at a professional soccer game or watching the Portland Trailblazers dribble down the court, some of the world's best athletes entertain the City of Roses.

The Trailblazers play at the Moda Center near downtown, with the regular NBA season spanning October through April. Both the Portland Timbers and Portland Thorns play at Providence Park near Northwest Portland. These professional soccer clubs have matches between April and October.

The city is also home to the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hawkeye League, the Portland Pickles summer baseball collegiate team, and the local-favorite Rose City Rollers all-female roller derby team.

The 4T Trail is a unique urban hiking adventure utilizing the city's TriMet public transportation network. Urban explorers board a Train , Tram , and Trolley and traverse a hiking Trail to complete the 4T loop.

This half-day to full-day sightseeing journey visits Washington Park, downtown, and the OHSU campus for a ride on its aerial tram. Signs help direct explorers throughout the route, though it helps to be proficient with a smartphone or map.

Several side adventures line the route. These other adventures include all the attractions of Washington Park, where the 4T Trail converges at the underground TriMet station. Downtown is also easily accessible along the 4T Trail.

Official site: https://www.4t-trail.org/

Council Crest is a historic park in Portland, just south of Washington Park. It's one of the highest points in the city and offers a fantastic view up and down the Cascade Range.

Designated viewpoints lend views of the not-so-distant Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier. The weather significantly affects the chance of seeing these Cascade peaks.

Visitors can drive to the top of Council Crest Park. Alternatively, several hiking trails lead up to this vantage point, including the Marquam Trail ascending from Marquam Nature Park . A sprawling lawn area comprises much of the park perched above the city. It's a popular venue for lounging and congregating with friends.

Snow adorns the top of Mount Hood throughout the year. And when it accumulates in the winter, several of Oregon's best ski resorts operate on the side of the mountain.

Mount Hood is home to four resorts and many other snow play areas, including the popular Snow Bunny Sliding Area Sno-Park .

Mount Hood Meadows , Mount Hood Skibowl , and Timberline Lodge are the three most prominent and most visited resorts on the mountain. These three each have accolades, like Timberline Lodge's 365-day ski calendar. But each resort draws similar crowds on any snowbound weekend.

Cooper Spur Mountain Resort , the fourth resort, is still popular but receives fewer crowds, on the mountain's northeast side.

Cathedral Park is a lovely public space on the northwest edge of city limits, abutting the Willamette River. Arguably, its most attractive feature is the photogenic St. Johns Bridge. This iconic bridge was constructed in 1931, and many visitors regard it for its stunning aesthetics, especially come sunset.

The park's 20 acres also draw a crowd, scattered with different amenities like picnic tables, nature gardens, and an off-leash dog area . And alongside the river views, the park also has a boat ramp and dock, often used by kayakers and paddleboarders to get onto the water.

The Freakybutttrue Peculiarium is a unique showcase of sci-fi and other oddities in Northwest Portland. It's a combination art gallery, museum, and interactive experience at the Peculiarium, with refined and evolving displays dating to the store's opening in 1969.

Despite a few macabre displays, it's all fun and laid-back at the Peculiarium. Several photo opportunities are available throughout the relatively small space, including the chance to put yourself right in the middle of an alien autopsy.

Plan to spend some time in the gift shop after the self-guided tour, with several unique peculiarities to peruse.

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16 Best Things to Do in Portland, Oregon

By Jen Stevenson

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.

Forest Park Arrow

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 .

Portland Japanese Garden Arrow

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.

Spartan Shop Arrow

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.

Providence Park Arrow

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.

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

Arati Menon

Oregon Zoo Arrow

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.

Portland Farmers Market Arrow

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.

International Rose Test Garden Arrow

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.

Jamison Square Arrow

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.

Powell's City of Books Arrow

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.

Providore Fine Foods Arrow

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.

Washington Park Arrow

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.

Lan Su Chinese Garden Arrow

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.

Cargo Arrow

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.

Beam & Anchor Arrow

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?

Pedal Bike Tours Arrow

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.  

Little Beast Brewing Arrow

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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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Things to Do in Portland, OR - Portland Attractions

Things to do in portland.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Northwest District
• Old Town - Chinatown
• Sellwood - Moreland Improvement League
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Portland Japanese Garden

2. International Rose Test Garden

3. Washington Park

4. Lan Su Chinese Garden

5. Pittock Mansion

6. The Grotto - National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother

7. Oregon Zoo: Together for Wildlife

8. Willamette Valley

9. Hoyt Arboretum

10. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

11. Forest Park

12. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

13. Pearl District

14. Portland Art Museum

15. Portland Saturday Market

16. Oregon Historical Society

17. PSU Farmers Market

18. St. Johns Bridge

19. Peninsula Park and Rose Gardens

20. Mount Tabor Park

21. Portland Aerial Tram

22. Oregon Holocaust Memorial

23. Multnomah County Central Library

24. Westward Whiskey

25. Portland Visitor Center

26. Portland Farmers Market

27. Laurelhurst Park

28. Powell's City of Books

29. Portland Center Stage at The Armory

30. Northwest (Nob Hill)

What travelers are saying.

30 Best Things to Do in Portland, Oregon + Map

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Oregon | Portland | 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.

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 .

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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33 Best Things to do in Portland, Oregon

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 30, 2023

Located on the West Coast of the United States, Portland is the largest city in Oregon, and yet a haven for lovers of nature, quirky characters, charming neighborhoods, and small city life. Among the food trucks, craft beer, and historic buildings in downtown Portland, the locals thrive to keep Portland weird. In the city center are an abundance of green spaces, rose gardens, hipster cafes, street art, and amazing ice cream.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Portland Oregon

This comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Portland will help you explore the city’s weird side and see why it’s one of the most interesting places in the US. Interested in exploring Oregon? Check out our guide to the best things to do in the Beaver State .

1. Take a Photo of the Keep Portland Weird Sign

It’s a quick and easy stop, but one of the first things to do in Portland is to stop at the Keep Portland Weird sign for the obligatory photo. Located on the side of a building at 220 NW 8th Ave, this is one of the top tourist attractions in Portland.

The Keep Portland Weird sign has become a symbol of Portland’s eccentricity and independent spirit representing Portland’s unique culture and character. Think of a bird with a coffee cup, a unicyclist, or a Voodoo Doughnut. It was created by artist Dan Stiles and was first installed in 2004.

What’s really funny is that I had always thought of Austin’s Keep it Weird slogan, but I guess there are two places in the United States that want to stand out as different and I support that. Both Austin and Portland are very different from many places in the USA making both cities two of our favorites in the country.

2. Sample Sweets at Voodoo Doughnut

The debate rages on about whether Blue Star Donuts are better than Voodoo Doughnut and no time in Portland would be complete without sampling at least one. Blue Star may be a local favorite, but the wild and innovative nature of Voodoo Doughnut makes it a memorable and must-do experience.

Voodoo loves to push the boundaries when it comes to creative donut-making. Where else can you find Capt’n Crunch toppings? So truth be told, they may not be for everyone, but there is only one way to find out.

The line is always out the door but moves quickly, so straddle up for a sweet treat adventure! The best way to get into the doughnut culture of Portland is to take an underground doughnut tour. You’ll visit 4 of Portland’s donut institutions including a skip the line ticket to Voodoo Donuts. Other donut stops include Sesame Donuts, Blue Star Donuts and more: Details here.

3. Take a Portland City Walking tour

A great way to start in any city is to take a walking tour. This walking tour takes you through the soul of the city to learn about its most famous architecture. Starting in the city’s Cultural District, you’ll walk to see the many museums and plazas including including the Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Historical Society. Book it here, easy cancellation within 24 hours of departure.

Discover some of Portland’s most influential architecture, from cast iron-fronted structures to the grandly disastrous post-modern Portland Building, on this walking tour. Discuss the modern rise of radical activists, and how it is connected to the city’s history going back more than a century. Meet Portlandia, visit the Pioneer Courthouse Square, and trace Portland’s history as you walk through parks and plazas that were sites of headline-making gatherings.

4. Sample some Food Cart Pods

With more than 600 food carts located throughout the city Portland is a Mecca for food cart culture. Many of these carts are clustered together in what are known as “food cart pods.” These pods are essentially outdoor food courts where multiple food carts are gathered in a single location, often with shared seating areas and other amenities.

This Portland Food Carts and Patio Tour takes you to one of Portland’s first food cart pods to enjoy food and rinks at up to 7 different food carts. Enjoy Portlands Central Eastside neighborhood. What we love about this tour is that you get to try some Poutine, (Our Canadian staple in Portland!) But, you’ll also go around the world to try Lebanese food and Belgian waffles. The tour ends at a patio to enjoy Portland craft beer and to chat with the new friends you made along the way. .

One of the most popular food cart pods in Portland is the 5th Avenue Food Cart Pod which is home to around 30 food carts serving a wide variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Thai, Vietnamese, and Korean. There are picnic tables and covered seating areas making it a great spot to grab a snack while you continue with your Portland sightseeing. More details here.

5. Browse For books at the World’s Largest Independent Bookstore

In a city that embraces the old with vigor and substance, it’s no surprise that Portland is home to the biggest new and used bookstore on earth. Powell’s City of Books is a local institution. It’s an independent bookstore that covers an entire city block of Portland’s northern downtown.

Even if you have no plans of picking up a novel to enjoy some light reading, you must go into Powell’s City of Books for a look around. Exploring the store is enough of an adventure in itself. Check-in and grab yourself a map so you don’t get lost roaming the aisles containing over four million books including a rare book room.

6. Portland City Cruise

We love getting on the water and when visiting Portland, a great way to take in the skyline is to get on the water. Be it kayaking or booking a Portland dinner cruise , it’s a great way to see the Steel Bridge and other Portland landmarks along the Willamette River. On a dinner cruise, you’ll enjoy a delicious three-course dinner with entertainment and narration. See the city lights as the sun goes down while dining on lo ally sourced Northwest cuisine.

Try out the best way to dine in Portland on the Willamette River enhanced by dazzling city sights and lights. Enjoy Northwest cuisine (locally sourced and prepared fresh on board), live piano music, and narration of the sights on the outer decks. More details on a dinner cruise here.

7. Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Placed along the Willamette River, which divides Portland, the Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a beautiful spot to take in the river. Throughout the day you will find locals walking and jogging the Waterfront Park Trail , taking in the views of the city, park, river and port.

Come here to not only enjoy some peace but also to visit the Oregon Maritime Museum , the Salmon Street Spring s or the smallest park in the world, Mill Ends Park. You heard me right, as listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, Mill Ends Park is the smallest park in the world.

If you have arrived in time for sunset, continue on to Broadway Bridge for views of the colorful sky. Later, walk across the bridge for a night among the brewpubs in southeast Portland.

8. See the Cherry Blossoms in Bloom

One of the most popular times of the year to visit the park is during the Cherry Blossom season where the 100 Akebono cherry trees are in full bloom in the Spring season.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park is also home to many events and festivals throughout the year, including the Portland Rose Festival, Oregon Brewers Festival, and the Waterfront Blues Festival. The park has a large amphitheater that can accommodate up to 10,000 people and is used for concerts and other performances.

About Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Tom McCall Waterfront Park is named after Tom McCall, a former governor of Oregon who played a key role in protecting the state’s environment.

The park covers an area of about 36 acres and offers beautiful views of the river and the city skyline. It features paved paths for walking, jogging, and biking, as well as open grassy areas for picnics and recreation. There are also several public art installations, including the Salmon Street Springs Fountain, which is a popular spot for cooling off on hot summer days.

Other things to see at the park are the Japanese American Historical Plaza, the Police Memorial, and the Founder’s Stone. The Portland Farmer’s Market is held within the park every weekend from March to Christmas 

9. Shop at the Portland Market

One of the best things to do in Portland on the weekend is to visit the Portland Saturday Market. Held every weekend from March until Christmas Eve, you will discover over 150 arts, crafts, and food vendors. They help make the market the largest fair of its kind in the United States.

Wake up early and partake in some fresh food shopping, or return in the afternoon to try some unique Portland eats under the Burnside Bridge. Cuisines hail from all around the world, including Thai, Nepalese, Greek and even some homegrown fresh catch and desserts.

10. Visit the Portland Art Museum

If you enjoy your art, then one of the top things to do in Portland is to explore the Portland Art Museum. Near the Portland State University campus, the art museum features work from across the globe and also focuses on Pacific Northwest Native American Art.

You could spend a full day wandering the halls and taking in several masterpieces, stunning photography and iconic prints. However, even with just an hour or two, you can still make the most of the experience.

11. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) was founded in 1944 and is one of the oldest science museums in the United States. If you are looking for things to do in Portland on a rainy day, this is the place

The museum features a variety of hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and interactive displays that explore various scientific fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and technology. Some of the most popular exhibits at OMSI include the Earth Science Hall, where visitors can explore a replica of a Pacific Northwest cave, and the Turbine Hall, which features large-scale demonstrations of water and electricity.

Portland at Night OMSI After Dark

For one of the coolest things to do in Portland at night, check out OMSI After Dark that takes place on the last Wednesday of each month. This is an adults only event (21+) where alcohol is served while visitors peruse local vendors and science exhibits.

OMSI also has a planetarium, where visitors can experience a variety of shows about astronomy and space science, as well as a theater that shows educational films and documentaries.

12. See the Sprawling Forest Park Portland

As the city’s biggest park and one of the best things to do in Portland, Forest Park must find its way onto your itinerary. Even in what is a growing city, the park is an excellent place to enjoy the fresh air and feel a world away from the bustle of downtown.

The 5100-acre park has 70 miles or trails throughout the forest and you’ll will be inundated with amazing views, whether that be Mt Hood or the Willamette River. The endless miles of trails will take you to iconic spots like the Pittock Mansion, or better yet, rent a bike and cycle some of its 29 miles that are open to cycling.

You can also book this Portland Bike Tour to explore the Willamette River, sample donuts, learn about the neighborhoods, and see the city from a different perspective.

13. Hike to the Witch’s Castle

While you are in the park, visit one of the most curious places in Oregon. Witch’s Castle is where ghosts roam under the moonlight.

Is also known as the Stone House or the Stone Cabin and was originally built as a public restroom in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), but it fell into disrepair and was abandoned in the 1960s. Over time, the abandoned Stone House became a local legend and was rumored to be haunted, with some saying that it was the site of witchcraft and Satanic rituals. Hence the name “Witch’s Castle.”

Today, it is a popular hiking destination, and visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and enjoy the scenic views of Forest Park.

The Stone House is located on the Wildwood Trail, which is a 30-mile trail that runs through Forest Park. The trailhead for the Witch’s Castle is located at the end of NW 29th Avenue, and it is accessible by foot or bike.

While the castle itself does not have any particular historical significance beyond its role as a WPA restroom, its eerie atmosphere and rumors of paranormal activity have made it a popular destination for those interested in the supernatural.

14. Tour the Pittock Mansion

One of the most prominent Portland attractions is the Pittock Mansion. The dramatic mansion was built in 1914 in the French renaissance-style. History buffs will love touring this estate where the Pittock family, who called it home, were major players in developing Portland, Oregon, into the city it is today.

Consisting of over 40 rooms and 16,000 square feet, the Pittock Mansion is well worth exploring on a guided tour. However, its location within Forest Park makes it the perfect spot to relax or have a picnic on your adventures through the woods.

You can take a tour inside to see the period furniture or you can enjoy the views of the city from the outside which offers one of the best city views of Portland.

15. Get Outdoors at Washington Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Portland if you don’t have a car, then wonder no more. Washington Park is a sprawling urban oasis that is easily accessed with the help of Portland’s light rail.

Just 20 minutes from downtown, those visiting Portland will quickly fall in love with this open space. Bring your walking shoes, as there are 15 miles of trails to stroll while you will also have the chance to visit the Oregon Zoo and the International Rose Test Garden.

Combining your favorite exhibits with conservation and fun education, the Oregon Zoo is one of top things to do in Portland with kids. The zoo comprises five main sections featuring different continents and unique ecosystems. So your crew can circle the globe while getting an unobstructed view of the world’s most iconic animals.

When exploring the zoo, you won’t go hungry with multiple restaurants and coffee shops to choose from. Head to Growlers for pizza or order your lunch online and pick it up at AfriCafe, so your day doesn’t miss a beat. (Another great option to see wildlife is at the Portland Audubon Society.)

16. Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden

Considered one of the most authentic Japanese Gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is not to be missed. We have visited a lot of Japanese and Chinese Gardens in our day and they are a beautiful place to find your Zen. It has the usual elements of an Asian garden with water features, rocks, gardens, and buildings blending all of the elements beautifully together.

Located in Washington Park in southwest Portland,a stop in the Portland Japanese Garden is a must. Although you will find plenty of green space to explore when in Portland, the garden is a unique attraction that stands out.

Seen as one of the best Japanese Gardens in the United States, you can easily find a moment of Zen among the stunning aesthetics from wooden bridges over creeks to traditional rock gardens. Try the matcha tea as you sit in the peaceful open spaces of the Umami Cafe catching glimpses of the towering Mount Hood.

17. Smell the Roses at International Rose Test Garden

Known as the City of Roses , Portland is home to the stunning and public Rose Test Garden. Also found within Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden boasts 500 varieties of roses sources from around the globe. The roses are sent here to test the viability and the plant’s characteristics.

Although open year-round, the garden is best seen between the months of May and September. During that time period, more than 10,000 rose bushes bloom in unison, backed by the incredible views of Mt Hood. After the garden, wander over to the iconic ice cream shop Salt & Straw for some distinctive ice cream flavors.

This half day Portland tour takes you on a guided city tour in a small group You’ll drive through the hills for city views and wander the center of Portland to the Pittock Mansion which offers the best view of Portland. It includes a stop at the International Rose Test Garden where you are free to enjoy 20 minutes on your own. Book your tour here

18. Visit During The Rose Festival

Speaking of roses, the Rose City hosts The Portland Rose Festival annually from late May and early June. The festival has been held since 1907 and is one of the city’s most popular and well-known events.

The festival features a variety of events and activities, including parades, live music and entertainment, food and drink vendors, carnival rides, and fireworks displays. The festival also includes a variety of competitions, including a dragon boat race, a rose show, and even a sandcastle-building contest.

One of the highlights of the Rose Festival is the Grand Floral Parade, which is held on the second Saturday of the festival. The parade features floats decorated with flowers and roses, marching bands, and other performers. The parade attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators each year and is one of the largest parades in the Pacific Northwest.

Another popular event during the Rose Festival is the CityFair, which is held at Waterfront Park and features carnival rides, games, food vendors, and live entertainment. The CityFair is open daily throughout the festival and is a great place to bring the whole family.

19. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Staying with our in bloom theme, The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is a botanical garden that covers an area of 9.5 acres and features over 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and other plants.

The garden was originally created in the 1950s as a display garden for the Portland Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society. Over the years, the garden has expanded to include a variety of other plants and features, including a picturesque lake, waterfalls, and walking paths.

The garden is especially popular in the spring when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom, creating a colorful display of flowers.

20. Old Town Chinatown

One of the best places to start your adventures in Portland is within that city’s Old Town Chinatown. As one of the most historic neighborhoods in Portland, Old Town harbors the secrets of the city’s early days, including the infamous Shanghai Tunnels.

Also known as the Old Portland Underground, these tunnels were used to connect the suppliers at the port directly to the businesses via, you guessed it, tunnels. That was until shady happenings continued to occur within the confines of the tunnels. Organized crime would not just take the produce but kidnap the port’s sailors, also known as Shanghaiing .

Over time, the historical accuracies have blurred, but a tour of the tunnels is one of the best things to do in Portland. Take this tour of Portland’s Shanghai Tunnels. This unique tour takes you through the underground passages of Portland’s Chinatown followed by 3 tasters and 1 pint of Portland craft beer.

21. hoyt arboretum

Portland has plenty of outdoor spaces and the Hoyt Arboretum is a 190-acre public arboretum that was founded in 1928. It is now home to over 6,000 trees and shrubs from around the world, making it one of the most diverse tree collections in the Pacific Northwest.

The Hoyt Arboretum features 12 miles of hiking trails and paved paths for walking, jogging, and biking. The trails wind through different sections of the arboretum, each with its own collection of trees and plants. Some of the collections include the Magnolia Collection, the Maple Collection, the Oak Collection, and the Conifer Collection.

22. Ride the Portland Aerial Tram

The Portland Aerial Tram, also known as the Portland Tram or OHSU Tram, is a gondola lift system that connects the South Waterfront district to the main campus of Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) on Marquam Hill. The tram opened to the public in January 2007 and has since become an iconic feature of the Portland skyline.

The tram consists of two cabins that can carry up to 79 passengers each, traveling a distance of 3,300 feet (about 1 kilometer) and an elevation gain of 500 feet (about 152 meters). The ride takes about 3-4 minutes one way, and offers stunning views of the city and the Willamette River.

Tickets can be purchased for the Portland Aerial Tram at the lower terminal station or online. The cost of a one-way ticket is $5.10 for adults and $2.50 for seniors and children. The tram runs daily, with frequent departures throughout the day.

23. Start Your Day at Pioneer Courthouse Square

If downtown Portland had a gathering place, this would be it. The square is an urban park within the heart of the city, a spot where post-work festivities begin.

Beyond being a meeting point, the beautiful square is vibrant throughout the year. Concerts and festivals occur almost weekly, with Tuesdays and Thursdays bringing free lunchtime concerts to locals.

However, the atmosphere in ‘Portland’s living room’ reaches its peak during the winter festival season. Festivals include Winter Lights and the Holiday Ale Festival, a celebration of the state’s best craft beers.

24. Walk Along Mississippi Avenue

If the question is what to do in Portland at night, then the answer is to head to Mississippi Avenue. Mississippi is another neighborhood in Portland that has risen to fame based on its social vibe and arts scene. The main drag, Mississippi Avenue, provides the goods with colorful quirky shops, food trucks, and homes that are now trendy restaurants.

The daytime brings plenty of walking adventures as you meander your way down the street. However, at night, this is the place to go to experience Portland’s live music scene. The standout among the bunch is Mississippi Studios.

If you are looking for a place to eat on the go pop into Probst Marketplace and choose a dish from its many food carts.

25. Take a Bike Tour

One of the best ways to get around Portland is by bicycle adn you can rent bikes to take you to all of its top attractions. Rent an e-bike to easily get around the city avoiding the hassle of parking a car, but having the luxury of battery power to make sightseeing easy.

Or you can join a bike tour to get around Portland. This bike tour takes you through Portland’s neighborhoods where you’ll see the alternative side of the city admiring street art. Take time to smell the roses and go for a ride along the river. A bike tour is a great way to experience the city at a leisurely pace.

26. Portland Festivals

Portland is known for its festival scene, with events taking place throughout the year. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may be able to enjoy one of the festivities taking place in the city. Some of the most popular festivals in Portland include:

• Portland Rose Festival – This is a multi-week festival that takes place in May and June every year. It celebrates the city’s rich history and culture with a variety of events, including a grand floral parade, dragon boat races, and fireworks.
• Portland International Film Festival – This festival showcases the best in independent and international cinema, with screenings taking place over two weeks in February.
• Portland Jazz Festival – The Cathedral Park Jazz Festival is a ten-day festival in late February that celebrates jazz music with performances by renowned musicians from around the world.
• Portland Craft Beer Festival – This festival takes place in July and features more than 100 local breweries and over 300 different types of beer.
• Feast Portland – This four-day food festival takes place in September and features some of the best chefs, restaurants, and food artisans from around the Pacific Northwest.
• Holiday Ale Festival – This festival takes place in early December and features over 50 different winter ales, ciders, and meads.

27. Take a Brewery Tour

Portland has plenty of craft breweries and one of the best ways to make new friends and immerse in the beer scene is to take a brewery tour. This East Side Craft Brewery Walking tour takes you through Portland’s inner Eastside neighborhood to enjoy its craft brewery scene. Sample different flavors and learn about Portland’s craft brew origins.

Walk through Portland’s craft brewery scene, the inner Eastside neighborhood, tasting beer samples spanning the gamut in style, flavors, and colors. Learn about the origins and future of craft beer in Rose City and America as a whole

28. Chill Out in the Pearl District

Many cities have amazing examples of rundown districts born again and old neighborhoods with a ‘rags to riches tale’. Portland’s version of this is the Pearl District. Once home to warehouses and disintegrating brick buildings, the Pearl District is one of the best places to eat and drink in Portland.

The once abandoned warehouses have been converted to chic condos with highrises cropping up yet maintaining its industrial feel creating one of the funkiest neighborhoods in Portland.

The Pearl District is home to several fantastic art galleries, cafes for your morning cup, and some of the best dining in the city when the tummy starts to grumble. Fans of craft beer will also delight in the neighborhood’s selection of delicious brewpubs, none more popular than Deschutes Brewery and Public House.

Return in the evening when the laid-back district presents some of Portland’s best nightlife.

29. Alberta Arts District – The Hippest Spot in Town

Northeast Portland once had an infamous reputation, but over the years it has transformed into an artists’ hub and a neighborhood for expression and creativity. From this, the Alberta Arts District was born.

This Eastside Craft Brewery Tour takes you on a walking tour through the Eastside industrial district to explore its distilleries, street art and coffee scene. Learn about Portland’s craft brewing history, and taste its IPAs and Belgian Bear. You will also taste Portland Ciders.

Based around Alberta Street, you will discover a youthful community of art galleries and homegrown boutiques. What will come as a shock to no one is that the district comes with an abundance of murals and is the best spot for street art in Portland. Come with no plan and simply get lost walking the streets, hitting up some great brewpubs, cafes or street vendors along the way.

30. Enjoy Cocktails At A Rooftop Bar

If you don’t make it to the Pittock Mansion for a view of the city, make sure to enjoy a cocktail at one of its rooftop bars. Like many cities, Portland has a number of great rooftop bars, here are a few for you to choose from.

• Departure Rooftop Bar: Located on the 15th floor of the Nines Hotel, Departure offers stunning views of downtown and the surrounding mountains. The bar features an Asian-inspired menu and a variety of signature cocktails.
• Revolution Hall : Situated on the roof of the historic Washington High School building, Revolution Hall offers a spacious outdoor patio with breathtaking views of the city. The bar serves up a variety of local beers and cocktails, and also hosts live music and events.
• Tope: This rooftop bar is located atop the Hoxton Hotel and offers sweeping views of the city skyline. The menu features Mexican-inspired dishes and a variety of creative cocktails.
• Altabira City Tavern: Located in the Lloyd District, Altabira offers a large rooftop patio with stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The bar features a rotating selection of local beers and an extensive menu of American cuisine.
• Century Bar: This rooftop bar is located in the heart of downtown and features a spacious outdoor patio with views of the city skyline. The bar offers a variety of craft cocktails, wine, and beer, as well as a menu of small plates and snacks

Day Tours from Portland

While there is no shortage of things to do and see within the city, the surrounding areas offer endless options for a perfect day trip. From hiking in the Columbia River Gorge to wine tasting in the Willamette Valley, there’s something for everyone within easy driving distance from Portland.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, these day trips will leave you with unforgettable memories of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty and charm. So pack a picnic, hop in the car, and let’s explore some of the best day trips from Portland, Oregon!

31. Columbia River Gorge

Following the immersive Historic Columbia River Highway, venturing to Columbia River Gorge is the perfect choice for those seeking a day trip from Portland. Spanning 80 miles along the mighty Columbia River you will get the full fix of Oregon’s spectacular scenery and soaring canyons.

Although you will have an abundance of epic lookouts along the way, make sure to leave time for the trip to Multnomah Falls. The Insta-famous waterfall is worth braving the crowds for, thanks to the memorable 542ft drop into a cascading pool. You can reach the falls by following the 5-mile Wahkeena Falls Loop Trail, which passes a total of 6 mesmerizing falls.

Book this highly rated Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Tour for an afternoon at the Columbia River Gorge including, Multnomah Falls, the Portland Women’s Forum, the Crown Point Vista House, Latourell Falls, and Shepperd’s Dell.

32. Timberline Lodge

Along with the Columbia River Gorge, a trip to Timberline Lodge is a great way to experience the world around the Portland city limits. 90 minutes from Portland, the Timberline Lodge is the base for many outdoor activities.

On the edge of the monstrous Mount Hood, this is the place to go for year-round skiing and big mountain hiking trails. Better yet, save the energy and ride the gondola up to 7000ft with epic views of the summit.

After the return journey, cozy up in front of the Timberline Lodge’s fireplace and have dinner at what feels like the top of the world.

Want the lowdown on hiking around the Portland area, from the Oregon coast to the Cascade Range? Check out our guide on the best hikes in Oregon .

33. Willamette Valley Wine Tours

Taking a wine tour from Portland to Willamette Valley is a great way to explore the region’s vineyards and wineries, which are known for producing world-class Pinot Noir wines. Willamette Valley is home to over 500 wineries, so it’s a good idea to research which ones you’d like to visit ahead of time or you can book a wine tour to make things easier. Some popular wineries include Domaine Serene, Stoller Family Estate, and Adelsheim Vineyard.

Willamette Valley is a large area, so it’s important to plan your route in advance to ensure that you can visit all of the wineries on your list. There are several wine tour maps available online that can help you plan your route.

Many wineries require reservations for tastings, so be sure to book in advance to secure your spot. You can usually book tastings directly through the winery’s website or by calling them.

This half day wine tour takes you to the Willamette Valley for wintery hopping to sample its famous Pintos. Visit three tasting rooms with a stop for lunch along the way on this small group tour.

Where to stay in Portland

There are several worthy areas in Portland to stay, from Mississippi to Old Town, while southeast Portland provides many budget options. Below, we have listed three hotels to suit each budget.

Budget – With a vintage vibe and exposed brick, the Society Hotel i s a top choice among budget travelers. Within walking distance of the Pearl District, a mouthwatering food scene, and Northwest Portland, you’ll have it all at your fingertips. Check rates and Reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Mid-Range – In Portland’s Northwest District, Park Lane Suites & Inn brings fantastic amenities at a great price. With a beautiful interior, well-equipped kitchen, and plush sofa, you’ll feel right at home. When you’re ready to explore Portland, the Lan Su Chinese Garden and Powell’s City of Books are steps away. Check rates and reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Luxury – With a rooftop terrace, indoor pool, and enormous suites, the Hampton Inn & Suites will be the perfect home in Portland. Within the Pearl District, you are close to all the action in the city center, the best Portland restaurants, and the Portland Art Museum. Check rates and reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Unique – Jupiter Hotel – We stayed at this hotel and loved its quirky vibe. A mid-century motor inn turned boutique hotel in the heart of Portland just minutes from downtown, and the Rose Garden Arena. Check rates and Reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Where we Stayed: We also stated at The Benson a historic landmark hotel in Portland that was founded in 1913. With a European flair it is a Four Diamond hotel. Check rates and reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

How to get to Portland

The major arrival point for Portland, Oregon, is through the city’s major airport. Portland Airport is 9 miles from downtown Portland and the best way to travel is on the MAX light-rail train. The trip takes just under 40 minutes to complete, starting at 4:45 am, with the last train at 11:50 pm. Tickets cost $2.50 for adults.

Taxis and ride-share services provide alternatives. Depending on traffic, a trip takes anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. Costs for a taxi hover around $35.

Shuttles are another common option. Some Portland hotels provide free shuttle transfers.

Amtrak also connects to Portland via several western USA cities.

Getting around Portland

One thing that quickly becomes noticeable as you travel around Portland is just how great bicycles are and how bad the car traffic is.

That doesn’t mean you should rule out hiring a car when in town. In fact, to enjoy the coast and the mountains on either side of the city, then you’ll need four wheels.

However, with great public transportation, you can get almost anywhere within Portland.

Bus – The TriMet bus system operates over 80 lines throughout the city. You can plan your journey on their website and attain arrival times and details of each stop. Beware that there are fewer services in the evening and the vast majority end after 1 am.

Light Rail – If you are downtown, then using the MAX light rail and the Portland Streetcar are two easy ways to get around. The light rail is reasonably extensive and easy to use. For trip planning, you can download the app on the TriMet website.

To make life easier and cheaper, grab a Hop Fastpass Card. Use all forms of transport without having to worry about cash.

Bicycle – Portland has an abundance of bike lanes and a strong bike share system. Drivers here are also more aware of their two-wheeled counterparts than elsewhere in the States. The bike-share system is called Biketown . Have your pick of 1500 bikes stationed at 180 different locations throughout the city.

Car Rental – Local traffic has an infamous reputation and can slow down your adventures around Portland. You can compare car rental prices for Oregon at RentalCars.com

SmartPark garages are a great option for when you can’t find a spot to park. But in general, you will want to save your car for day trips further afield.

Taxis – Cabs are readily available at all hours, while Uber and Lyft operate in great numbers.

Best time to visit Portland

Thanks to the impressive nature, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Portland. Sure, it can get pretty cold in the winter, yet the soaring mountains provide ample exciting opportunities from skiing to mountaineering.

However, with an abundance of urban spaces and flowers blooming in unison, spring is the best time to visit Portland. The cherry blossoms come to life and the city’s atmosphere awakes from the winter slumber.

Summer and fall present also present great travel opportunities. The urban parks pack out in the summer with festivities and markets galore. While in the fall, the foliage is worth the price of entrance all by itself.

Now that you’ve explored Portland, why not check out another outstanding Oregon city. Explore our guide to the best things to do in Bend !

• 12 Best Hikes in Oregon That Will blow Your Mind
• 21 Awesome Places to Visit in Oregon
• 26 Fun and Adventurous Things to do in Bend, Oregon
• Smith Rock State Park – Misery Ridge Hike

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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1 thought on “33 Best Things to do in Portland, Oregon”

I cant wait to visit this places, great blog!

The 16 best day trips from Portland

Feb 25, 2021 • 12 min read

Portland has an abundance of natural beauty just a short drive away, from high desert crags to lush coastal rainforests ©Danielle D. Hughson/Getty Images

Portland is blessed with a pretty prime geographic location – drive two hours in any direction and you might find yourself at the coast, on a snow-capped stratovolcano, in the heart of wine country, at a rock climbing crag, soaking in a hot spring or even closing in on other major cities like Seattle, Washington. If you're itching for a change of scenery, Portland has a wealth of day trip-worthy destinations in arm's reach. We narrowed it down to sixteen of the best, with a little something for everyone from foodies to families to outdoor enthusiasts to oenophiles.

Editor's note: during  COVID-19  there are restrictions on travel. Check the latest guidance before departure, and always follow local health advice.

1. Waterfall Alley, Columbia River Gorge

Steep, evergreen-covered cliffs are striated with so many high, lush waterfalls that it boggles the mind. Walk into this temperate rainforest and you’ll find golden-red foliage in fall, snow sprinkles in winter, wildflowers in spring and flourishing mosses year-round. The lower edge is dominated by the mighty, curving Columbia River. Adventures in Columbia River Gorge range from easy jaunts from a parking lot to full days exploring the wilds.  

How to get to the Gorge:  I-84 East runs the length of the Gorge, and you can easily exit to stop in numerous small towns and trail head parking lots along the way. Traffic can get backed up, though, so give yourself plenty of time. Alternately, you can reach the Gorge by public transit if you take the bus or light rail to the Gateway/NE 99th Avenue Transit Center and transfer to the Columbia Gorge Express. 

2. Willamette Valley Wine Country

The New World’s answer to Burgundy, the bucolic Willamette Valley  excels at producing complex pinot noirs. Small towns chock-full of gourmet restaurants and cute shops are separated by rolling hills covered in grapevines and flowers. Most wineries are family-owned and you’re more likely to be met by a happy dog than an attitude. Beyond wine, check out distilleries, cheese factories, bike trails and more.  

How to get to the Willamette Valley: Towns like Dundee at the north end of the Willamette Valley are only 40 minutes or so from downtown Portland, but the Willamette Valley extends for about a hundred miles to Eugene at the far southern end.

3. Sauvie Island

With pick-your-own fruit farms in summer, corn mazes and hay rides come autumn, and beaches, trails and waterways to explore year-round, Sauvie Island is an easy trip to pastoral bliss. Plus, it’s as fun for kids as it is for adults. As the largest island in Columbia River, any land not dedicated to farming is a protected wildlife area. Expect to see ospreys, herons, bald eagles and maybe even a beaver.   

How to get to Sauvie Island:   Sauvie Island is just 40min from Portland by car and can be reached by US-30 East, I-5 South, or US-26 East. There will be plenty of parking at the farms and other destinations, as well as at the public beaches – just be sure to get there early if it's a sunny summer day.

4. Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls is quite possibly the most stunning park in the state. The 7.2-mile, not-to-miss Trail of Ten Falls does what it says and more as it winds up a basalt canyon through thick forests. Walk the full loop to see all the waterfalls – and even walk behind a few – in their fern-draped, wildflowered splendor, or park at the Silver Falls Lodge from where it’s a short walk down to South Falls – here the trail leads underneath an unforgettable 177ft cascade curtain. 

How to get to Silver Falls State Park:   Silver Falls State Park is about 26 miles east of Salem on Hwy 214 and 53 miles south of Portland via OR-214 N and I-5 N. It should only take an hour to reach from downtown, depending on traffic.

5. Cannon Beach

The Oregon Coast holds some of the most beautifully grand but lesser-known beaches in the contiguous USA. Cannon Beach is the ideal, easy-to-reach introduction to the region, with miles of white sand, waterfalls tumbling to the beach and the hulking, 72m Haystack Rock which makes for a picture-perfect silhouette. In town, you’ll find art galleries, chic boutiques and incredible dining (hint: try the chowder).

How to get to Cannon Beach: Take US-26 East until it junctions with US 101 – a trip that should be only 1hr 30min by car.

6. Timberline Lodge

Stay, dine, hike, ski or gawk – this iconic Oregon lodge is a destination in itself or a must-stop if you’re exploring Mt Hood. The grand structure was built of local stone and timber to blend in with the surrounding forest and the six-sided central tower is meant to mimic the pyramid-like peak of its glorious mountain location. Timberline Lodge is a National Historic Landmark as well as a hotel, a fine restaurant, a pub, a ski resort and a trailhead for adventurous hiking. You may recognize the exterior from the 1980s horror film, The Shining .

How to get to Timberline Lodge:   Mount Hood is only an hour and a half from Portland by US-26 East. Alternately, you can take public transit to the Gresham Transit Center and transfer to the Sandy Local / Gresham Express to Sandy, Oregon. From there you transfer the Mount Hood Express before getting off in Timberline, but it will extend your journey to about three hours. 

7. Johnston Ridge Observatory, Mt St Helens

Gaze into the awesome crater of Mt St Helens from the state-of-the-art Johnston Ridge Observatory . Whether this is your destination or you’re preparing for a longer hike through the National Volcanic Monument, you’ll learn the science behind the 1500 atomic bomb-force eruption in 1980. Then take the 1-mile Eruption Trail walking loop for even more views, with explanations, of the volcanic destruction.   

How to get to Johnston Ridge Observatory:  Take I-5 N to WA-504 E/Mt St Helens Way NE in Castle Rock. The drive is about two hours long.

8. Smith Rock

Best known for its glorious rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park boasts rust-colored 800ft cliffs that tower over the pretty Crooked River. Nonclimbers have several miles of fine hiking trails, some of which involve a little simple rock scrambling. Nearby Terrebonne has a climbing store, along with some restaurants and grocery stores. The formations in the park are simply spectacular.

How to get to Smith Rock: It's a three hour drive to Smith Rock from Portland via US-26 East. Be sure to get there early – Smith Rock quickly fills up on a sunny day. There's camping right next to the park, or at Skull Hollow (no water; campsites $5), 8 miles east. The nearest motels are a few miles south in Redmond.

9. The Fruit Loop

Covering 35 miles along scenic fertile lands, the Hood River County Fruit Loop takes you by family fruit stands, U-pick orchards, lavender fields, alpaca farms and winery tasting rooms. There are blossoms in spring, berries in summer, and apples and pears in fall – with plenty of festivals and celebrations throughout the seasons (except for winter). It's a good way to sample the area's agricultural bounties while appreciating the local scenery too. For more information and a list of events, check www.hoodriverfruitloop.com.

How to get to the Fruit Loop: State   Highway 35 runs from Government Camp on the slopes of Mount Hood and the city of Hood River in the Columbia River Gorge. It's along this stretch that most of the farms and other destinations on the Fruit Loop are located. You can take either US-26 East or I-84 to reach one end of the Loop or the other, depending on whether you'd like to drive it clockwise or counterclockwise. 

10. Eugene, Oregon

Eugene offers a great art scene, exceptionally fine restaurants , buzzy breweries , boisterous festivals , miles of riverside paths and several lovely parks . Its location at the confluence of the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers, just west of the Cascades, means there's plenty of outdoor recreation on offer – especially around the McKenzie River region, the Three Sisters Wilderness and Willamette Pass. Not only that, Eugene's at the southern end of the Willamette Valley, which boasts several world-class wineries.

How to get to Eugene: It's about a two hour drive on I-5 South from Portland to Eugene. If you don't mind the potential for delays, or want to extend your daytrip into a weekend away, you can also take Amtrak's Coast Starlight or Cascades lines from Portland's Union Station to Eugene, a journey of about 2 hours and 30 minutes if you don't have to wait on a freight train to pass.

11. Tillamook

Best known for its huge cheese industry, Tillamook is a fun destination for a day trip if you're aiming to down some dairy. Cheese production began in Tillamook in the 1890s, when an English cheesemaker brought his cheddar-making techniques to the fledgling dairies along Tillamook Bay. Nearly a million people stop here annually to visit the famed  Tillamook Creamery , which produces 171,000 pounds of cheese every day. South of Tillamook, US 101 loses the beaches and headlands and follows the Nestucca River through pastureland and logged-off mountains. The slower but prettier  Three Capes Scenic Drive  begins in Tillamook and follows the coast.

How to get to Tillamook:  US-26 West and OR-6 West will get you to Tillamook in under an hour and a half. Alternately, you can take the 5 bus from Union and disembark at the Tillamook Transit Center, but that will add a half hour or so to the trip.

12. Bend, Oregon

Not all of Bend is as pretty as nearby Smith Rock – Hight 97 (3rd St) is a long commercial strip of cheap motels, fast-food restaurants and run-of-the-mill services. But something has to support Bend's fast-growing population, which has skyrocketed with outdoor-lovers over the past decade or so. You can ski fine powder in the morning, paddle a kayak in the afternoon and grab a beer  in the evening at a crop of local watering holes . Or would you rather go mountain biking, hiking, mountaineering, stand-up paddle boarding, fly-fishing or rock climbing? All of those are possible at the nearby  Three Sisters Wilderness ,  Lava River Cave  and  Newberry National Volcanic Monument . You can even surf a river wave in the center of town. It's the perfect getaway from cloudy Portland, too, with nearly 300 days of sunshine each year.

How to get to Bend: US-26 East will get you to Bend from Portland in just over three hours, though traffic can sometimes tangle up where you pass through Smith Rock State Park. You can also take I-5 South to Salem and take OR-22 East over the Cascades to Bend – a drive of about three and a half hours.

13. Bagby Hotsprings

A 90-mile drive east of Salem is this rustic, clothing-optional hot spring with various wooden tubs in semi-private bathhouses. Bagby Hot Springs  is accessible via a lovely 1.5-mile hiking trail through lush forest. Be prepared to wait your turn on weekends. The admission fee is collected by an attendant near the trailhead.

How to get to Bagby Hotsprings: There are a couple different routes you can take south from Portland that all converge around Shady Dell. Whichever you take, you'll ultimately end up driving 11 miles on forest service road NF-7010 until you reach the trailhead parking lot. From there it's a 30 minute hike to the springs.

14. Trillium Lake

If there's one thing Portlanders love, it's heading to Trillium Lake for the day. This popular spot offers stunning vistas of Mt. Hood reflected in the lake's shimmering waters, a nice campground, and boardwalk hikes surrounded by wildflowers in season. During the spring and summer, there are opportunities for boating, swimming and fishing, too. The 63-acre lake sits at an elevation of 3,600 feet, though, so by the middle of autumn the access road is closed by the park service, and instead transforms into a cross country ski and snowshoe trail for the winter. A State of Oregon Sno-Park permit is required November 1 through April 30.

How to get to Trillium Lake: US-26 East will get you to Trillium Lake in about an hour and a half. Once you reach Government Camp, you'll use forest service road NF-2656 to reach the campground.

15. Astoria

Named after America's first millionaire, John Jacob Astor, Astoria sits at the 5-mile-wide mouth of the Columbia River and was the first US settlement west of the Mississippi. The city has a long seafaring history and has seen its old harbor, once home to poor artists and writers, attract fancy hotels and restaurants in recent years. Inland are many historical houses, including lovingly restored Victorians – a few converted into romantic B&Bs. With a number of quirky festivals like the Fisher Poets Gathering  and the  Festival of the Dark Arts  beer showcase, Astoria has plenty to keep day trippers coming back throughout the year. 

How to get to Astoria: It takes just under two hours to get to Astoria from Portland on   US-26 West. Alternately, you can take public transit to Union and transfer to the CC bus to Astoria before getting off at the East Columbia River Highway stop. It takes just under three hours by bus from Portland.

16. Seattle

Just three hours away from Portland, its bigger, sleeker sibling sits on Puget Sound. Seattle 's current reputation as the town that spawned Amazon and Starbucks won't give you the full picture of the city's oddball cultural heritage. Crisscross its urban grid and you’ll find all kinds of apparitions: a rocket sticking out of a building; a museum built to resemble a smashed-up electric guitar; glass orbs in wooden canoes; a statue of Lenin; a mural made of used chewing gum; fish-tossing market traders; and a museum dedicated to antique pinball machines (that you can still play). Need help acclimating? The city's still-booming legal weed market will help you embrace your own weird side.

How to get to Seattle: It's under three hours to Seattle from Portland on I-5 North. You can also take the Bolt bus, which departs regularly from the Park Blocks in downtown Portland. Another option is to take the Amtrak Coast Starlight or Cascade train from Portland's Union Station in to Seattle. The later two options will take anywhere from three and a half to four and a half hours, not counting possible delays.

You might also like:

Celebrate spring with lush backpacking trips near Portland, Oregon The 11 best beaches in Oregon The best tasting rooms in Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country

This article was first published September 2020 and updated February 2021

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15 Things To Do In Portland Oregon: The Ultimate Bucket List

October 9, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

Looking for the best things to do in Portland, Oregon? You have come to the right place! Portland is a popular vacation destination with tons to see and do. There are so many quirky and unique things to do in Portland.

We’ve made this list of the coolest things to do in Portland to make sure you you have a great time in the City of Roses. Portland is famous for its roses (seriously, they even grow on highway underpasses in the city) its amazing food, and its funky, laid back atmosphere.

Portland has long had a reputation for being counterculture and hip. The unofficial slogan of the city is “Keep Portland Weird!” so get ready for an adventure like no other!

Portland is a must see on any Pacific Northwest itinerary or West Coast road trip . One of the great things about visiting this city is that there are lots of free things to do in Portland.

A lot of Portlanders (and tourists) navigate the city entirely on bicycles. Portland has been named the best city in the United States for biking. Whether you get there by bike, car, or public transportation, we know you will love this list of the best things to do in Portland, Oregon!

15 Coolest Things To Do In Portland, OR

Powell’s city of books.

Don’t miss your chance to explore the largest independent new & used bookstore in the world! Known as the “City of Books” their main location on Burnside St. is 68,000 square feet of literary wonder. Wandering Powell’s is one of the best free things to do in Portland on a rainy day.

Picture a whole city block filled with dreamy floor to ceiling bookshelves, complete with those cool library ladders to reach the treasures on the tippy top shelf. Follow your nose through the maze of bookshelves to discover a delicious coffee and pastry shop. Head to the top floor to experience a museum like selection of rare books.

Because they sell used books as well as new you can come out with armloads of amazing tales without breaking the bank. Be sure to check the dates that you’re coming to Portland to see if Powell’s is putting on any special events. They are known for hosting amazing writers workshops and are a frequent stop on famous author’s book tours.

Portland’s Thrifting Scene

No list of things to do in Portland would be complete without thrifting! Some travelers come to Portland with an extra suitcase or backpack to fill with their vintage clothing finds.

If you’re in the mood to thrift all day long, we recommend a visit to the Sellwood neighborhood. Their main street (SE 13th) is packed full of excellent antique stores that have rooms full of timeless fashions, waiting to find new life in your closet.

If you want to experience Portland’s signature quirk and magic in a thrift store, visit Psychic Sister in the Alberta District. Their curated thrifting experience is packed with fashion miracles, and the space also doubles as a funky crystals & tarot card shop.

Witches Castle in Forest Park

One of the fun, weird things to do in Portland is visit the Witches Castle. This picturesque ruin is located in Forest Park. Built around 1850, the stone structure is steeped in spooky legends of murder. If you’re in to ghost stories, definitely google the story of this house’s original owners!

Now left to the elements, this overgrown stone building makes a very picturesque backdrop for your travel photos. A pleasant half mile hike through Forest Park will take you to this beautiful mossy ruin.

Forest Park has over 80 miles of trails and is a lovely way to spend a day in Portland. You can take in in 5,200 acres of pristine Pacific Northwest forest without leaving the city limits.

Food Trucks

Be sure to bring your appetite when you visit Portland. This city is home to over 600 food trucks and food carts! With a plethora of farm fresh foods in Portland, these tiny mobile kitchens create meals that rival some of the best brick and mortar restaurants in other cities.

There is a food truck for everyone, including many that are exclusively vegetarian or vegan. Get ready to try lots of funky fusions you never would have imagined! The trucks gather together in thoughtfully constructed outdoor courtyards with many picnic tables, so it’s easy to sample many cuisines and styles at once. Locals refer to these food truck groupings as “pods” and everyone has their favorite neighborhood pod.

The city of Portland has made a helpful food truck pod guide page so that you can make the hard decision about which pod to try out first. Eating at as many of these food truck pods as possible is one of the most fun things to do in Portland, Oregon. You may even want to take one of the foodie tours in Portland!

When looking for the best things to do in Portland it’s very important that you save room for dessert! The city is packed with kooky and wild confections to suit all tastes. However, the city’s most famous dessert is certainly its doughnuts.

If you are on the hunt for Portland’s best doughnut, one choice is Voodoo Dougnuts. Their famous pink boxes and glazed doughnuts dipped in things like Captain Crunch breakfast cereal and grape dust have made them a touristy staple in Portland. Bonus: their flagship downtown location is located right across from the iconic “Keep Portland Weird” mural if you want to take photos with that!

Many locals argue that the best doughnut in Portland is actually Blue Star doughnuts. You should probably try both and compare it to Voodoo! Blue Star is known for it’s more “grownup” flavors like Passion Fruit Cocoa Nib, Raspberry Rosemary, and Blueberry Bourbon Basil.

Alberta Arts District

You won’t want to miss visiting this artsy corner of Portland! The Alberta neighborhood has prioritized art in all forms, from hosting some of the best art galleries in town, to being the home of some of Portland’s most striking street art and murals.

In the Summer the Alberta District hosts a street fair called “Last Thursdays.” On Last Thursdays Alberta closes its main street so that it can be filled with booths by local artists. The city’s musicians and performers flock to Last Thursdays, so you’re sure to get an amazing show!

The Alberta district also boasts many amazing restaurants and thrift shops like Psychic Sister, so you’ll want to be sure to include exploring it on your list of fun things to do in Portland.

International Rose Test Garden

Your nose will thank you for making this a stop on your list of things to do in Portland. This garden is one of the largest collections of roses in the U.S. Because Portland has such an ideal climate for growing these delicate blooms, exciting new varieties of roses are “test planted” here to see how they grow.

The International Rose Test Garden is located high up on a hill overlooking the city. It is unbelievably picturesque and a favorite location for photography in Portland. Founded in 1917, there is over 100 years of roses flooding this stunning park. You’ll see colors and shapes of roses you never dreamed existed. Meandering through the International Rose Test Garden is one of the best free things to do in Portland.

Hoyt Arboretum

Another thing to add to your list of free things to do in Portland, Oregon is visiting the Hoyt Arboretum. This arboretum was founded in 1928. Its mission is conserving trees and educating the public about Oregon’s forests. Located very close to the International Rose Test Garden, it is easy to hit both of these Portland attractions in one day, soaking up lots of botanical splendor.

The Hoyt Arboretum is home to many rare species of trees. It is one of the only places outside the state of California where you can see majestic Redwood Trees! The Hoyt Arboretum has 12 miles of hiking trails that take you through 2,300 species of trees hailing from 6 different continents.

Craft & Farmer’s Markets

As you have definitely noticed from this list of the best things to do in Portland, Portlanders love to be outside. They’ve taken that love of the outdoors to a new level by making sure their city has year round outdoor markets and street fairs.

There is an arts and crafts market every Saturday from February to the end of December downtown at Tom McCall Waterfront park. Here you can browse unique art, chat with amazing artisans, hear street musicians, and sample a curated selection of food trucks.

Portland is surrounded by some of the most lush farm country in the West. Oregon has its many volcanoes and volcanic soil to thank for nourishing all the delicious produce grown in and around Portland. The year round abundance of delicious farm fresh produce means that the Farmer’s Markets are not just a summer occurrence in the City of Roses.

There is a Farmer’s Market every Saturday at Portland State University. Other amazing Farmer’s Markets to visit include North Portland’s Kenton neighborhood on Wednesdays (June–Sept.), Northeast’s King neighborhood on Sundays (May–Nov.) and Southeast’s Lents neighborhoods on Sundays (June–Oct.)

More neighborhoods are adding Farmer’s Markets every year, so make sure to check and see if there is one you can walk to from where you’re staying.

Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

Looking for weird things to do in Portland? This museum should top your list. The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium was established in 1967 and has been mystifying and intriguing tourists and locals alike ever since.

A self proclaimed “store dedicated to learning and terror” this museum is definitely one of a kind! The Peculiarium contains novelties, ephemera, and one of a kind oddities to delight and frighten folks. Make sure to stop by the snack bar, which is famous for selling all kinds of edible insects.

Japanese Garden

“The most beautiful and authentic Japanese garden in the world outside of Japan.” – Nobuo Matsunaga, the former Ambassador of Japan to the United States

Perched high up on a hill with astounding views of the city of Portland and the surrounding mountains, the Japanese Garden easily tops the list of best things to do in Portland. This iconic garden was designed in 1963 and is truly breathtaking.

Buy your tickets in advance online to avoid long lines or being turned away because the garden is already at capacity. Once you’re in, you’re sure to enjoy wandering the expertly manicured garden. Say hello to the friendly and enormous koi fish, marvel at the precisely raked zen gardens, cross the stunning Moon Bridge, and enjoy tea in the traditional Japanese tearoom.

The Smallest Park in the World

A quirky stop for your tour of Portland is Mill Ends Park also known as the smallest park in the world. This park is certainly minuscule compared to the other famous parks that have topped our things to do in Portland list, but the size is part of the fun.

How small is the smallest park in the world? It is only two feet across! The park is home to one small tree, and if the locals are to be believed, a family of leprechauns.

The park was declared the smallest in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records and has proudly held that title since 1971.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

Tourists and locals alike flock to the OMSI. In our opinion exploring this museum is one of the most fun things to do in Portland.

If you love an interactive museum experience this is the museum for you! The OMSI prides itself on letting you experience its exhibits (which have titles like “Earth Lab, Paleontology Lab, Physics Lab, and Chemistry Lab) with your own two hands. The OMSI also boasts one of the best planetariums in the Northwest, so come ready to stargaze!

Check the dates that you are coming to visit Portland to see what rotating exhibits you get to look forward to experiencing at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Sauvie Island

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Portland? 10 miles to the north of the city is idyllic Sauvie Island . The island is accessible by public transportation from the city center.

This pastoral island is covered in small farms where you can go berry or pumpkin picking, depending on what’s in season. There is also wine tastings and lots of opportunities to taste farm fresh cuisine. Savuie Island is home to some of Portland’s most important wildlife refuges, making it a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers.

The island has several miles of pristine sandy beaches where you can swim in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. These beaches are a great spot to take a break from your busy itinerary of things to do in Portland and soak up some sun.

One of the things that makes Portland so quirky and cool is it’s many McMenamins properties. McMenamins is a business that buys old buildings and converts them into unique and fascinating restaurants and hotels.

So many of McMenamins properties make the coolest things to do in Portland list. You can visit a pub built into an old chapel, stay in a hotel that is in a transformed old schoolhouse complete with blackboards and desks still in the rooms, dance the night away at Portland’s iconic vintage Crystal Ballroom, or catch a movie at the opulently restored Bagdad Theater.

Anywhere you see the McMenamins name in Portland is sure to be a beautifully restored piece of local history, and a really good time.

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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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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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The post The best places to visit in Oregon: 5 exciting itineraries appeared first on The Clever West Wind .

Best places to live in Oregon

An ideal town or neighborhood looks different for everyone.

Those who can't get enough of the outdoors may prioritize proximity to trails, lakes, and beaches, while parents are looking for places with top-ranked schools for their children. Culture lovers might want to live in a city with museums and art walks, whereas sports fans look for professional or college sports teams nearby.

Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in Oregon using data from Niche . Niche ranks places to live based on a variety of factors including cost of living, schools, health care, recreation, and weather.

On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks. Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums.

Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

#28. Bethany, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,126 - Population: 30,983 - Median household income: $156,512 - Median home value: $669,200 (69% own) - Median rent: $2,028 (31% rent) - Top public schools: Sunset High School (grade A), International School of Beaverton - High School (grade A), Lincoln High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#27. Cedar Hills, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,444 - Population: 9,076 - Median household income: $103,544 - Median home value: $555,600 (59% own) - Median rent: $1,421 (41% rent) - Top public schools: Sunset High School (grade A), International School of Beaverton - High School (grade A), Mountainside High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#26. Cedar Mill, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,308 - Population: 19,151 - Median household income: $165,184 - Median home value: $815,200 (76% own) - Median rent: $1,721 (24% rent) - Top public schools: Sunset High School (grade A), International School of Beaverton - High School (grade A), Mountainside High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#25. Lake Oswego, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,918 - Population: 40,457 - Median household income: $127,252 - Median home value: $825,000 (70% own) - Median rent: $1,979 (30% rent) - Top public schools: - Top private schools: Lake Oswego Senior High School (grade A+), Lakeridge High School (grade A+), Oak Creek Elementary School (grade A)

#24. Eliot, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 2,084 - Population: data not available - Median household income: data not available - Median home value: data not available (data not available own) - Median rent: data not available (data not available rent) - Top public schools: - Top private schools:

#23. Sylvan-Highlands, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 2,048 - Population: 1,296 - Median household income: $154,583 - Median home value: $846,900 (73% own) - Median rent: $2,709 (27% rent) - Top public schools: Mountainside High School (grade A), Lincoln High School (grade A), Beaverton Academy of Science & Engineering (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#22. South Burlingame, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 2,036 - Population: data not available - Median household income: data not available - Median home value: data not available (data not available own) - Median rent: data not available (data not available rent) - Top public schools: - Top private schools:

#21. Woodstock, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 2,031 - Population: 9,871 - Median household income: $113,069 - Median home value: $564,177 (74% own) - Median rent: $2,031 (26% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#20. Eastmoreland, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,725 - Population: 4,364 - Median household income: $208,951 - Median home value: $876,211 (93% own) - Median rent: $2,281 (7% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#19. Hosford-Abernethy, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,723 - Population: 7,142 - Median household income: $117,886 - Median home value: $712,088 (54% own) - Median rent: $1,759 (46% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#18. Forest Park, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,636 - Population: 3,972 - Median household income: $188,091 - Median home value: $849,515 (88% own) - Median rent: $2,070 (12% rent) - Top public schools: Sunset High School (grade A), International School of Beaverton - High School (grade A), Lincoln High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#17. Hollywood, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,573 - Population: 2,447 - Median household income: $95,317 - Median home value: $681,429 (40% own) - Median rent: $1,486 (60% rent) - Top public schools: Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic High School (grade A+)

#16. Alameda, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,541 - Population: 5,236 - Median household income: $203,920 - Median home value: $854,609 (94% own) - Median rent: $2,835 (6% rent) - Top public schools: Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#15. Kerns, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,465 - Population: 6,491 - Median household income: $62,204 - Median home value: $648,979 (17% own) - Median rent: $1,428 (83% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#14. Southwest Hills, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,452 - Population: 7,436 - Median household income: $184,813 - Median home value: $966,057 (71% own) - Median rent: $2,359 (29% rent) - Top public schools: Mountainside High School (grade A), Lincoln High School (grade A), Sato Elementary School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#13. Sunnyside, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,387 - Population: 8,057 - Median household income: $95,196 - Median home value: $617,488 (37% own) - Median rent: $1,711 (63% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#12. Sabin, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,375 - Population: 5,438 - Median household income: $151,102 - Median home value: $717,755 (68% own) - Median rent: $2,411 (32% rent) - Top public schools: Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Jesuit High School (grade A+), Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+)

#11. Richmond, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,338 - Population: 13,413 - Median household income: $121,061 - Median home value: $645,374 (59% own) - Median rent: $1,663 (41% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Jesuit High School (grade A+), Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+)

#10. Hillside, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,317 - Population: 2,294 - Median household income: $189,686 - Median home value: $974,184 (89% own) - Median rent: $2,211 (11% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Sato Elementary School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#9. Arlington Heights, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,147 - Population: 998 - Median household income: $135,087 - Median home value: $954,832 (65% own) - Median rent: $1,299 (35% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Sato Elementary School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#8. Homestead, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,097 - Population: 2,642 - Median household income: $104,125 - Median home value: $766,339 (36% own) - Median rent: $1,531 (64% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), West Sylvan Middle School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#7. Laurelhurst, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,080 - Population: 4,800 - Median household income: $166,354 - Median home value: $860,499 (82% own) - Median rent: $1,851 (18% rent) - Top public schools: Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic High School (grade A+)

#6. Irvington, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,072 - Population: 6,692 - Median household income: $124,545 - Median home value: $869,703 (49% own) - Median rent: $1,781 (51% rent) - Top public schools: Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+), Northwest Academy (grade A+)

#5. Sullivan's Gulch, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 857 - Population: 4,001 - Median household income: $99,954 - Median home value: $519,956 (28% own) - Median rent: $1,655 (72% rent) - Top public schools: Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Jesuit High School (grade A+), Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+)

#4. Grant Park, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 822 - Population: 3,492 - Median household income: $179,802 - Median home value: $880,717 (88% own) - Median rent: $1,799 (12% rent) - Top public schools: Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#3. Pearl, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 807 - Population: 10,079 - Median household income: $122,307 - Median home value: $684,653 (28% own) - Median rent: $1,706 (72% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), West Sylvan Middle School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#2. Goose Hollow, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 617 - Population: 6,968 - Median household income: $83,976 - Median home value: $477,609 (23% own) - Median rent: $1,491 (77% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), West Sylvan Middle School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#1. Northwest District, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 531 - Population: 16,501 - Median household income: $80,266 - Median home value: $757,726 (21% own) - Median rent: $1,567 (79% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Sato Elementary School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

This story features data reporting and writing by Elena Cox and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 42 states.

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Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

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.

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