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Portland Itinerary: Plan a Perfect Weekend in Portland, Oregon

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Hip, funky and fun, Portland, Oregon is a perfect weekend destination! Boasting abundant green space, cool urban districts and a fabulous foodie scene, travelers visiting Portland in a weekend can truly experience the best of the city. Our Portland Itinerary features the top highlights – and visitors to Oregon can use our outline to create their Best Weekend in Portland trip plan!

Weekend in Portland Itinerary

Spending a weekend in Portland, Oregon is an excellent way to get acquainted with the city that so proudly proclaims to be weird. With a relaxed atmosphere and creative culture, visitors can get a good feel for Portland even in a short amount of time. From peculiar sights to natural attractions, visitors will find there is plenty to do on a weekend trip to Portland.

Planning a Portland Weekend Itinerary

On my first weekend trip to Oregon (and my very first time to the Pacific Northwest), I traveled to Portland to visit my cousin. Being in the company of a local, I wasn’t tasked with creating my own Portland, Oregon itinerary; she knew all the best places to go and had insider secrets. On that trip, I spent two days in Portland – and absolutely fell for the city.

Not long after my initial trip, I was itching to go back to discover even more. My cousin had since moved, so I took on the complete responsibility to plan a trip to Portland, Oregon from beginning to end. Intent on expanding my exploration, I created fun weekend trip itineraries that included the must see Portland sights, beautiful nature and the best food.

Based on diligent research and my experiences from several visits, we have created a 3-Day Itinerary Portland that is perfect for weekend trips!

3 Days in Portland, Oregon Itinerary: A Long Weekend

In our weekend trip planner for Portland, we outline a day-by-day plan for visiting Portland in 3 days.

It is assumed that you will arrive mid-afternoon on Friday (or Saturday) and stay until the evening on Sunday (or Monday). Although our Portland weekend itinerary does include a few ‘weekend only’ events, those activities can easily be substituted for weekday Portland adventures.

Therefore, this itinerary for Portland, Oregon can really be used for a trip over any days of the week!

A Longer or Shorter Trip to Portland, OR?

Furthermore, we understand that not all travelers are planning a Portland, Oregon 3-Day Itinerary. Some visitors are limited to just one day in Portland, while others may be creating a 5-Day Portland Itinerary.

To help fellow travelers, we offer suggestions for alternate Portland trip itineraries at the end of the article. Whether you are planning to see Portland in a day or are devising a longer Portland trip itinerary, you can use our tips to plan your ideal vacation to Oregon.

Looking for more to do in OR State? Use our guide to the Best Things To Do in Oregon . 

In our trip plan, we have outlined how to spend 3 perfect days in Portland. In addition to our day-by-day plan for a weekend trip to Portland, Oregon, we also include a useful map of attractions and essential tips – like how to get there, where to stay, when to visit Portland and what you will need to pack. 

Save, Bookmark or Pin our Portland Travel Guide to plan your trip to Oregon!

Day 1 Of Your Portland Weekend Trip

On Day 1 of your Portland 3-Day Itinerary, get settled into your accommodations (suggestions below), then set out to discover one of the city’s most vibrant districts, Pearl.

Pearl District Portland

The Pearl District is an absolute must in every Portland, Oregon vacation itinerary! Once the warehouse district, the Pearl has evolved into a stylish enclave of residences, art galleries, green parks and some fabulous Portland restaurants.

Powell’s Bookstore

Start your exploration of the Pearl District at the landmark Powell’s City of Books, which is the largest independent bookstore in the world. The massive bookshop covers an entire city block and ranks on many lists as one of the Top 10 Bookstores in America.

Things To See in Portland Pearl District

After perusing the selection of books, take a walk through North Park Blocks, a green urban oasis since 1869. 

Make your way through the Pearl District, walking north on 11th – the best street in Pearl District – passing boutique shops, cafes and restaurants along the way. Walk through Jamison Square, which features fountains where you can cool your feet in the summertime, stroll through the wetland habitat on the raised boardwalk in Tanner Springs Park. 

At The Fields Park (which has a great play area for visitors planning a Kid Friendly Portland Itinerary), hop on the Willamette River Greenway Trail and make your back south to Chinatown and Old Town Portland. 

Discover Old Town Chinatown Portland

Make your way into the Old Town Chinatown District. Although not as impressive as other American Chinatown districts – like San Francisco – there is an ornamental gate (at NW 4th Ave and W Burnside St) and a handful of other sights to include in your Three Days in Portland Itinerary.

Things To Do in Portland Chinatown

The highlight of Chinatown – and one of the absolute best things to do in Portland – is the lush Lan Su Chinese Garden.

Other attractions in the district to add to your Portland Itinerary are the Steel Bridge (a double-decker bridge built in 1912) and Union Station (the city’s main transportation hub, which was built in the late 1800s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places).

Portland Underground Tunnel Tour

The Shanghai Tunnels are a fascinating place to see during your weekend in Portland. The guided tours depart multiple times a day, taking visitors into the subterranean space to learn about the history of the old tunnels and the ghosts that reside in them. Book it here!

Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Ease into the evening with a barcade experience at the classic Ground Kontrol Arcade. Patrons can play favorite retro games while sipping a beer. It’s the best place in Portland to get your pinball on! 

Evening Entertainment: Dinner, Drinks and Live Music in Portland OR

There are many different ways to spend the first night of your Portland weekend – so where you end up will depend on your style and mood. 

Personally, we think the PNW craft beer scene is not to be missed. However, downtown PDX has a stellar dining scene – especially in the rooftop perches above the city. Additionally, there are historic spots, cozy corners, international eats and plenty of live music. 

We are highlighting a few of the best places to go in Portland, OR on your first night.

Portland Craft Beer

Nicknamed ‘Beervana,’ Portland claims to have more breweries than any other city in the world – so getting a taste of locally produced craft beer is practically essential during your 3 days in Portland.

The Pearl District is home to a range of restaurants and some of the best breweries in Portland. Among the many, our favored spot is Deschutes Brewery and Public House – for both food and craft beer. The menu is elevated pub grub and the fresh beer – of which there are 26 brews on tap – is exceptional.

Brewery Crawl and Cocktail Hop in Portland

From Deschutes, visitors can create their own Portland brewery tour, making stops at 10 Barrel Brewing, Backwoods Brewing Company and Von Ebert Brewing. For handcrafted cocktails, try Teardrop Lounge and Abigail Hall.

Looking for a fun activity for your girls’ or guys’ weekend in Portland? Discover the best craft beer on a mid-day craft beer tour ! 

Dinner and Drinks with a View in Portland 

Travelers who would rather include fine dining and fancy cocktails in their Portland Itinerary have some superb options, too. 

Portland City Grill is an exceptional restaurant that offers 360-degree views from their 30th floor location in the US Bancorp Tower. In fact, if you arrive early enough, you can partake in the phenomenal happy hour specials – all while enjoying the panoramic views over Portland.

For after dinner cocktails and city lights, head up to one of the best Portland rooftop bars – like Departure Bar, XPORT or Tope (where they also have excellent tacos!). 

Historic and Cozy Vibes

One of the best things about spending a 3-day weekend in Portland is the quirky and cool establishments that dot the cityscape – and Huber’s Café is one of them. 

Dating to 1879 and boasting a unique ambiance, Huber’s is one of the best places to eat in Portland. From the popular roasted turkey dinners to their famous Spanish coffee, Huber’s is a good choice for happy hour, dinner or a late night snack. 

After a meal, head for the cozy but chic Multnomah Whiskey Library, where bottles line the shelves along exposed brick walls and leather chairs face a roaring fireplace. 

Tea and International Fare

Portland might be famous for beer, but you certainly don’t need to drink in Portland to have a good time. 

Start with an early evening tea flight at Smith Teamaker, then indulge in international fare at one of the best Asian restaurants in Portland. Top picks are Thai Peacock Restaurant, Masu Sushi or Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen. 

Portland Live Music

If live music is your jam, check out who is playing at the historic McMenamins Crystal Ballroom, which has seen a slew of acts grace its stage since the early 1900s. 

Alternatively, see what is happening at The Armory Theater (aka Portland Center Stage) for an intimate and entertaining performance. Just don’t stay out too late, because tomorrow is another full day of fun! 

Day 2 Of Your Weekend in Portland Itinerary

On the second day of your Three Days in Portland Itinerary, start with some classic Portland food experiences, then see Downtown Portland sights. End the day across the Willamette River exploring the distinctly different districts in East Portland.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters

The city’s coffee craze is serious business – and Stumptown Coffee is the place to experience it on your weekend in Portland, Oregon. A local Portland favorite since 1999 (although now owned by Peet’s Coffee), Stumptown embodies the Third Wave Coffee Movement. 

Voodoo Doughnut Portland

In 2000, Voodoo Doughnut opened in Portland, OR…and so the doughnut craze began. With a line of creative flavors – like Bacon Maple Ale – the shop quickly made headlines and their Portland Cream Doughnut has been proclaimed the city’s official doughnut. Who ever knew there was such a thing?!

Patrons line up out the door and down the block everyday for the sugary breakfast treats – and on your weekend in Portland, you should join the crowd!

More Portland Donuts

Visitors who don’t want to stand in line, but still want a darn good doughnut, might want to check out Blue Star Donuts instead (although there are sometimes lines here as well). Their gourmet donuts include flavors like Blueberry Basil Cake and Mexican Hot Chocolate.

However, for a classic donut experience, make your way to Pip’s Original Doughnuts and Chai. The old-fashioned donut shop will likely have a line, but it’s worth it for the freshly fried donuts that are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Oh – and they taste best with a flight of chai teas! 

Pro Tip : If you really want to go crazy, try donuts from multiple spots. Or, better yet, join a guided Donut Tour  during your three days in Portland, Oregon.

Portland Saturday Market

Recognized as the longest running outdoor arts-and-crafts market in the US, the Portland Saturday Market is a must-see on your weekend getaway to Portland, Oregon. Opened in 1974, the free outdoor market features nearly 400 local vendors – plus there is always live music and heaps of international food truck options.

Pro Tip : Wander from the market north under the Burnside Bridge where you have the best view of the famous neon White Stag Sign – a must-see Portland, Oregon landmark. (Look for it on the north side of the bridge on Couch Street). 

Downtown Portland Bike Tour

Cycling is a popular mode of transport in the city – which is why taking a spin on two wheels is one of our top Portland trip ideas.

In the afternoon, hop on a bicycle for a guided tour of Portland downtown attractions and districts. Biking is one of the best ways to get around Portland – and on the tour, you can learn more about the city’s history as you pedal through the streets. Portland sightseeing on the route includes Pioneer Courthouse Square, Tom McCall Waterfront Park and Fifth Avenue Food Cart Pod. Find out more!

Another Popular Portland Tour

Alternatively, visitors interested in learning more about the food culture can add a Portland Food Tour to their Portland 3 Day Itinerary. The small-group walking tour includes 5 food stops at some of the best Portland restaurants and food carts. This tour is limited to just 12 people, so reserve your spot in advance !

Explore a Fascinating District in Portland’s Eastside 

By mid-afternoon of your second day of your Portland travel itinerary, cross the Willamette River to the east side of Portland to explore some of the best districts. 

Buckman District

Delve into the Buckman Neighborhood, a foodie haven and craft beer paradise that you shouldn’t miss on your Portland Weekend itinerary.

If you need a late afternoon pick-me-up, stop at Rimsky’s – an eclectic (and some say haunted) cash-only coffeeshop located in an old Victorian style house. Next, if you want to stay on theme, take a walk through nearby Lone Fir Cemetery, an enchanting final resting place for many of Portland’s most prominent citizens.

Hawthorne Street

Hawthorne is one of the coolest places to visit in Portland, Oregon. True to the spirit of the city, there street is home to an array of hip shops, independent retailers and eclectic eats. 

Pro Tip : Travelers who want to spend the entire day in East Portland can skip downtown sightseeing and start with brunch at Jam on Hawthorne, one of the best places to eat breakfast in Portland. Then, with a full belly, begin a full day of shopping along Hawthorne!

Hawthorne Street Vintage Shopping

Visitors can dig for vintage threads at House of Vintage, Village Merchants, Magpie or Red Light Clothing Exchange.

For more nostalgic shopping, stop by the local family-run Excalibur Comics – or search for vinyl at Jackpot Records and Tomorrow Records. 

Mount Tabor

The east side of Hawthorne ends at Mount Tabor. The little park was once a volcano, but now provides incredible views. Take one of the numerous paths that weave through the forest and around the reservoir to get to the top of Mt Tabor. 

An Evening Out on Day 2 of Your Portland Weekend Trip

The city’s east side districts are a fun and vibrant place to delve into a night of food, drinks and entertainment. 

Spend an Evening in Buckman

If you want to eat dinner in Buckman, stay on Hawthorne Street – which, in addition to being lined with vintage stores and boasting heaps of character, also hosts numerous restaurants. The eateries range from fine dining to farm fresh to funky fare.

That said, our favorite spot for a meal in Buckman is the Cartopia food cart pod. Located on the northwest corner of the Ladd’s Addition neighborhood (one of the oldest planned neighborhoods in Portland), the Cartopia food cart pod offers a variety of delicious fare. We recommend getting a bite to eat from multiple vendors for a complete Portland foodie experience. 

Still hungry? No shame! Venture around the corner to Asylum Food Carts and get a savory Dutch-themed waffle sandwich from Smaaken. 

Another popular dining establishment on Hawthorne – that is not a food truck – is Por Que No – a popular Mexican eatery serving unbelievably good tacos and refreshing margaritas. (Numerous Portland locations if you’re full!).

Buckman Brewery Hop or Patio Cocktails

After dinner, sample more Portland craft beer as you bar hop from brewery to tap room in Buckman. Cascade Brewing Barrel House, Grand Fir Brewing, Lucky Labrador Brew Pub and Away Days Brewing Company are a few of the favorite Buckman brewery tap rooms. 

Alternatively, sip cocktails at Rontoms – a laid-back restaurant with live music and good food. Plus, they have a patio with picnic tables and ping pong. 

The Goodfoot – with a basement live music venue and an upstairs pub – is a fun place for nightlife in Buckman.

Dinner and Drinks in Division

On the other hand, you could leave Buckman and go a bit further south to Division, where you can feast on famous burgers at PDX Sliders – which many say is a Portland, Oregon Itinerary must-do!

Then, attend the Saturday midnight showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater.

Top Tip : Pok Pok – and specifically their fish sauce wings – were long a staple on Division Street, but they have sadly closed their doors.

A Night on North Mississippi Avenue or in Alberta Arts District

Shops, restaurants, bars and theaters line the festive five-block stretch of North Mississippi Avenue in the historic North Portland neighborhood of Humboldt.

Nearby, the Alberta Arts District is another area in Portland, OR that is bustling with restaurants, bars and culture. Go underground to Les Caves Wine Bar, drink a divine Bloody Mary in a converted gas station at Radio Room or sip local craft beer at Great Notion Brewing. 

More Evening Portland Entertainment Options

Eating and drinking isn’t the only way to spend a night out in Portland. The city is well-known for it’s district movie theaters that show Indie films – plus there are heaps of stages where visitors can catch a major production or independent play. Plus, Portland is home to numerous professional sports teams.

McMenamins Bagdad Theater and Pub is a renovated 1927 movie theater and the Hawthorne Theater is a fun performance venue with a wide variety of acts.

Sports enthusiasts can catch a game when visiting Portland. The NBA Portland Trail Blazers play at Moda Center, just across the Willamette River from downtown or you could join the ‘Army’ of Portland Timbers fans for a MLS soccer match at Providence Park. Numerous other teams (like the collegiate baseball Portland Pickles and the junior ice hockey Portland Winterhawks) play at various times throughout the year.

Day 3 of Your Portland Weekend Itinerary

On Day 3 of your weekend in Portland, Oregon you will see more of the best attractions. Spend time in the beautiful outdoors (or use our tips in the next section for rainy day museums), visit more cool districts and end the day at a renovated schoolhouse. 

Pine State Biscuits for Breakfast

Start the final day of your weekend in Portland at a local hot spot: Pine State Biscuits. The modern diner excels at hearty, home cooked meals that are downright good. Go for the rich and decadent Reggie Deluxe sandwich on a fresh made biscuit (but expect a long line to get it).

Outdoor Portland Activities

The nature surrounding the city is astounding! Lush and green, spending time at these outdoor spots is one of the top things to do in Portland in 3 days.

Washington Park, Portland Rose Garden and the Japanese Garden

A city park since the 1870s, Washington Park is a 410-acre park featuring several attractions – and visiting is a must on your Portland, Oregon itinerary!

In addition to the 15 miles of hillside, forested trails, the top park attractions include the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, the International Rose Test Garden and the exceptional Portland Japanese Garden. The Redwood Observation Deck, memorials, statues, museums and playgrounds are more Washington Park highlights.

Forest Park

West of Washington Park, visitors can hit the trails in the even larger Forest Park. The urban hillside park overlooks the Willamette River and features 70 miles of trails. Enthusiastic trekkers can make a detour to walk across the historic St. Johns Bridge. 

Rather than tackling the trails on your own, visitors can join a local guide for a hike on the best trails to the best sights – including the International Rose Test Garden, the Japanese Garden and the Witch’s Castle. Get more details!

Discover NW 23rd

After trekking through the parks, if you want to spend the entire day in the area, aim for NW 23rd Avenue. Wander through the quaint Northwest District and eat lunch at a hip local restaurant – or dine at the charming Nob Hill Food Carts.

Afterwards, go to the interactive and incredibly entertaining museum, The Freakybutture Peculiarium and Museum, which is a fantastic place for funny photo ops and getting a little weird in Portland!

Walk along NW 23rd popping into boutique shops and galleries – and then cool down with ice cream from Salt and Straw, an artisan Portland-based ice creamery featuring unique flavor combinations.

Willamette River Boat Rides

Alternatively, get out on the river! A tributary of the Columbia River, the Willamette River flows right through the heart of Portland and is fun for outdoor recreation. One of the top Portland vacation ideas for river activities is taking a Willamette Jet Boat ride.

There are different jet boat tours to choose from – like Willamette Falls, the Shipyards or a quick scenic sprint along the waterfront and under bridges. The rides – which are absolutely thrilling – guarantee that passengers will get wet, so be prepared for that!

An alternate option is to travel by jet boat on a 3.5 hour trip under Portland bridges and up the Columbia River to see Multnomah Falls. Book it here!

If a soppy speedboat ride isn’t your style, opt instead for a relaxing Lunch Sightseeing Cruise  for your Portland weekend itinerary.

East Portland Outdoor Parks

If you still have room in your Portland vacation itinerary (or if this is not your first trip to Portland) and you are looking for unique outdoor adventures, consider a couple of the best east side parks – including an extinct volcanic cinder cone and an interesting grotto. 

The Rocky Butte Natural Area on Portland’s east side is an excellent neighborhood park. The extinct volcano features a gorgeous lookout point that is definitely worth including in your 3 Days in Portland Itinerary. If you get a clear day, the elevated Rocky Butte Park peak offers stellar views of Mount Hood. 

Nearby, The Grotto is another fantastic place to see in Portland, OR. The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother is an outdoor shrine that dates to 1924. Today, visitors come to celebrate mass, walk the beautiful gardens and revel in the Christmas Festival of Lights (during the month of December). 

McMenamins Kennedy School

Spend the last few hours of your Portland 3 Day Itinerary at the McMenamins Kennedy School. Don’t worry – you won’t be sitting in a boring classroom. Instead, you will be sipping cocktails or soaking in a saltwater pool (just be sure to make advance reservations for a swim!).

Headquartered in Portland, McMenamins is an Oregon brand that is known for renovating historic buildings and transforming them into truly spectacular venues of entertainment – and Kennedy School is one of the best. In addition to the multiple bars and pool, the property is also a hotel. (We talk more about places to stay in Portland below.) 

Visitors with a car might want to travel further afield to the McMenamins Edgefield property. Located in Troutdale (which marks the beginning of the historic driving route to the Columbia Gorge Waterfalls ), Edgefield is a 74-acre entertainment hub, inclusive of a hotel, winery, distillery, brewery, restaurants, pool, theater, golf and gardens (oh, my!).

More Things To Do in Portland, Oregon in 3 Days

We have highlighted the best things to do for your Portland Itinerary 3 Days trip – but we have a few more suggestions. 

In the event of wet weather, check out some of the museums in Portland. Or, if you want to see more of the region, embark on one of the day trips around Portland, Oregon.

Indoor Activities: Portland Museums

If foul weather keeps you from being outdoors during your weekend in Portland, don’t despair! There are plenty of cool places to see in Portland that are indoors. In fact, we already mentioned spending time at The Freakybutture Peculiarium and Museum – but there are many fascinating Portland museums.

We are featuring just a few of the top museums to include on your 3 Day Portland Itinerary. 

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is one of the best museums in Portland, OR. Featuring interactive and engaging science-based displays, the museum is family friendly (but appeals to visitors of all ages!). 

The Pittock Mansion

Located just north of Washington Park, Pittock Mansion was built in 1914. Today, visitors can see the 23 rooms in the mansion that are decorated in period pieces. Plus, the garden has a phenomenal viewpoint (which can be visited without paying entry into the mansion). 

The Oregon Historical Museum

The Oregon Historical Society Museum delves into the history of the land and people – tracing it from pre-historic to modern times. 

The Portland Art Museum

Displaying a fine collection of artwork from around the world, the Portland Art Museum has both a permanent collection and rotating exhibits. 

Portland Views from Above

Throughout our Portland Three Day Itinerary, we featured some of the best viewpoints in the city – but there are two more we want to highlight. 

OHSU Skyline Viewpoint and Gondola

On a clear day, there may be no better view than from the OHSU viewpoint. That said, getting there via gondola is half the fun!

Transporting passengers from the South Waterfront to the hillside Oregon Health and Science University hospital campus, the aerial tram takes just 4 minutes to ascend to the viewpoint. 

For a group experience, join a guide for sunrise from the viewpoint – along with craft coffee and donuts. Get the details!

Portland Airplane Tour

What better way to see Portland sights than from above?! Visitors can take a short, scenic plane ride to view Portland from an incredible vantage point. Book it here!

Portland Day Trip Options

During your weekend trip to Portland, taking a day trip is a perfect way to see more of the stunning surrounding region. Top day trips from Portland to add to a weekend in Portland are the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls, wineries and the Oregon Coast. We are featuring a few of the highly-touted Portland tours. 

Morning Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Tour

If you have a rental car , use our detailed Guide To The Columbia River Gorge . We share the absolute best way to see the waterfalls on a Portland road trip. 

If you want to leave the driving to someone else, consider a highly rated half-day tour that features the area’s beautiful waterfalls along the scenic byway. A guide offers interesting information about Oregon, while participants get to take in the breathtaking vistas. Book your spot!

Either way, the gorge is a perfect destination to include on a Portland weekend trip. 

Columbia River Gorge Adventure by Bicycle

When visiting Portland in a weekend, there is plenty of time to discover the outstanding beauty of the Columbia River Gorge on bicycle. The tour guide leads participants on an easy bike ride, making stops along the way to hike to nearby waterfalls. Guests can choose from morning or afternoon day trips from Portland. Find out more!

Willamette Valley Wine Tasting Tour

On your Portland trip, spend the afternoon visiting 3 incredible wineries in the picturesque Willamette Valley. The small-group tour features travel by minivan (and pick up/drop off at downtown hotels) and wine tastings at all 3 stops. Get more details!

Oregon Coast Tour From Portland

The Pacific Coastline in Oregon is a magnificent sight! We actually recommend taking a few days to complete a coastal drive – which you can read about in our complete guide to an Oregon Coastal Drive ! 

However, visitors short on time can still get a glimpse of the coast on a full-day tour. This Portland day trip itinerary includes the incredible scenery from Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park.   Learn more here!

Vancouver, Washington

Just north of Portland across the Columbia River is the city of Vancouver, WA – and it’s a fabulous place to explore during your 3 Day Weekend in Portland. The city – which feels more like a small town and is often referred to as a suburb of PDX – offers a fantastic waterfront, a handful of interesting sights and a buzzing craft beer scene . Use our tips for Things To Do in Vancouver, WA to plan your day trip from Portland. 

Crater Lake National Park

Many visitors are tempted to squeeze in a road trip to Crater Lake into a weekend Portland itinerary – but, honestly, we think the 4-hour drive each way is too long during your short weekend trip. That said, if you are planning a longer trip to Oregon and need additional Portland vacation ideas, Crater Lake can be a fabulous option. We share many more tips for a longer vacation to Portland in the next section!

More Portland Itineraries

Many people planning a trip to Portland wonder, “ How many days in Portland, Oregon is enough? ” While we think three days in Portland, Oregon is an ideal amount of time to see the sights, we could easily spend weeks exploring the city and region. However, what ultimately determines how long to plan a Portland vacation itinerary is interests, money and overall allotted time-frame.

Perhaps your time is limited to just a 2-Day Itinerary for Portland – or maybe you are planning a week-long Oregon vacation itinerary. To help in the planning process, we are sharing our top suggestions for alternative itineraries.

Portland Itinerary 1 Day

Whether you are taking a day trip to Portland or are planning to see Portland in one day as part of a larger PNW itinerary, there are numerous ways to spend your time. For us, a perfect Portland 1-Day Itinerary would include top sights, the best districts and iconic food.

To make the absolute most of a day in Portland, we recommend starting with a half-day tour by vehicle that takes in the top sights. Then, in the afternoon of your Portland 1 Day Itinerary, pick one district (or park) that is most appealing to you – and go discover it on foot. Depending on which neighborhood you choose, you could stop for a Voodoo Doughnut or Salt and Straw ice cream, then pop into a few craft breweries to get a good taste of what Portland has on offer!

2-Day Portland Itinerary

With 2 days in Portland there is just enough time to see the highlights. In order to create the best Portland 2-Day Itinerary, we recommend using parts of our above outlined 3 Day Portland Itinerary. However, for the best flowing Portland Itinerary 2 Days, on your first day, we recommend following our tips for Day 2. Then, on the second day, spend the morning at a park or on the Multnomah Falls tour; spend the afternoon in the Pearl District exploring the sights and sounds on foot.

Alternate Portland Itinerary 3 Days

While we think our outline for a 3-Day Itinerary in Portland, Oregon is the best way to see the city, it is certainly not the only way! Visitors who want to spend more time in nature can easily cut out some of the city sightseeing in favor of urban parks and the waterfalls tour .

And, vice versa, travelers most interested in city attractions can eliminate some of the outdoor adventures and spend more time in the districts and neighborhoods – like the Alberta Arts District or Mississippi/Williams.

4-Day Portland Itinerary

With 4 days in Portland, visitors have enough time to see the top attractions and go on a day trip from Portland. To create the best Portland Itinerary 4 Days, we recommend following our outlined plan for 3 days in Portland, then, on the last day, go on a full day tour.

Portland 5-Day Itinerary

Creating a 5 days itinerary in Portland, Oregon allows ample time for sightseeing, active adventures and a day trip. With 5 days in Portland, we recommend following the 4-Day Itinerary for Portland, Oregon (directly above), then spend the last day exploring another neighborhood or hop over the Columbia River and visit Vancouver, WA !

Oregon Itinerary One Week

As we already mentioned, we would have no problem planning a Portland travel itinerary for several weeks. That said, we think the best way to plan a Portland 7-Day Itinerary is to divide your time between the city and the coast.

7-Day Portland Trip Ideas: City and Coast

To create the best Portland and Oregon Coast Itinerary, you can use our day-by-day 3-Day Portland Itinerary – and then add on our Oregon Coastal Drive Itinerary . Our coastal drive trip plan features four days driving down the coast, visiting cute coastal towns (like Florence, OR ) and hiking some amazing Oregon trails . 

7-Day Portland Trip + Bend and Crater Lake

Visitors who have already been to the Coast of Oregon could create a Portland to Crater Lake Itinerary. After 3 days in Portland, take a 4-day round-trip adventure to Crater Lake. If time permits, we recommend a visit to Bend, Oregon on the way back to Portland. 

Visit Portland or Seattle?

Many people debate whether to visit Seattle or Portland – and, we admit, it’s a tough call! Because of their proximity, we actually suggest visiting both by creating a Seattle and Portland Itinerary.

To make the most of a Seattle-Portland Itinerary, we think you should plan at least five days (but a week would certainly be better and might give you time to check out hip Spokane ).

Top Tip: To plan a Seattle and Portland vacation, you can use the tips from our Seattle Itinerary !

Portland Oregon Map

Use this link to Google Maps to find your way to all the best things to do in Portland, Oregon.

Travel Tips For Your Portland Itinerary

Now that you know what to do in Portland in a weekend, we have a few more tips for your trip.

Organizing Your Portland 3 Day Trip

We have shared detailed information about how to plan a trip to Portland, Oregon.

As you make your trip plans and reservations, we recommend using a travel planner to keep track of the details. Our Trip Planning Printables are perfect for making sure nothing falls through the cracks! 

Portland Food and Drink

Throughout our Best Weekend in Portland Itinerary we highlighted top restaurants and hip bars. The eateries that we shared are some of the most popular places to eat in Portland, OR – so we highly recommend making reservations in advance, if possible. 

When Is The Best Time to Visit Portland, Oregon?

We think the best time to visit Portland, Oregon is summertime to early autumn; specifically, from June until early October. Summers in Portland tend to be dry and sunny – which is perfect for outdoor activities (and the rose gardens).

The mild temperatures is what makes summer the best time to travel to Portland. However, the high humidity can be stifling and it’s also the height of wildfire season.

Late autumn through spring can be rainy, which could seriously put a damper on hikes and even neighborhood exploration. That said, with an umbrella, raincoat and some patience, it can be a fine time of year to visit Portland. In fact, for visitors from the Northeast or Midwest, the milder weather makes Portland a great US winter destination .

How To Get To Portland, Oregon

Portland can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. On our most recent Portland trip we flew from Columbus, OH and departed to Montana . When we need to buy plane tickets, we start our search for the best airfare on SkyScanner – but first be sure to read our detailed Tips for Booking Flights .

The Portland International Airport – PDX – is the main airport in Oregon. PDX is well-connected via public transport, but private ground transportation is also available and should be booked in advance .

Do You Need A Car in Portland, Oregon?

For our Weekend in Portland Itinerary, it is not necessary to rent a car . The city has an exceptional network of public transportation – including the TriMet Bus and MAX Light Rail systems. Uber is also available as well as Lyft. It is easy to get around Portland on foot, scooter and by bicycle as well.

Additionally, visitors can get to the top Portland attractions on the Hop On Hop Off Pink Trolley Bus. In addition to making stops at all the best sights in Portland, the trolley also provides live on-board commentary and an open-air seating area for the best views. They offer 1- and 2- day passes. Get tickets here!

Where To Stay in Portland, Oregon

We think the best place to stay in Portland is central to all the best Portland, Oregon sights to see. That said, travelers with a car might prefer staying beyond downtown in one of the unique McMenamins hotels. 

The Paramount Hotel

We have stayed in various hotels on our trips to Portland – and can personally recommend staying at The Paramount Hotel. Located right in the heart of downtown, The Paramount Hotel offers clean rooms, comfy beds, an on-site restaurant, and sincere staff – all at an affordable price! Check rates and availability!

The Benson Hotel  

We have yet to stay at the historic Benson Hotel, but it is an iconic, luxury hotel in the Portland city center. Top features are the elegant rooms and top-notch service. Bonus amenities are the gym, laundry facilities and business center. Check rates for your stay!

We highlighted the McMenamins Kennedy Schoolhouse as one of the fun places to spend an evening imbibing and swimming, but it is also one of the best places to to stay in Portland! Located near the Alberta Arts District, travelers can use public transit and Uber to get to Downtown Portland sights and other districts. 

In addition to the multiple bars and heated swimming pool, the property also has an on-site movie theater. Each room is uniquely designed – some are even on old classrooms – and they all have ensuite bathrooms. The hotel does sell-out often, so book it in advance ! 

Other fun McMenamins hotels in Portland are the McMenamins Crystal Hotel in Downtown PDX ( check rates! ) and the McMenamins Edgefield Portland Hotel outside of the city center ( check availability! ). 

Choosing where to stay in Portland for a weekend? Find the top hotels and great rates on Booking.com – and use our Top Tips for Booking Hotels to ensure you get the best value!

Portland Vacation Rental

Like many big cities, there are several holiday apartments that visitors can rent for their weekend stay. That said, for your 3 Day Portland Itinerary, we recommend staying in a hotel, rather than an Airbnb apartment.

We usually love staying in Airbnb accommodations –  they tend to be less expensive and feature a kitchen for preparing simple meals. However, for a short weekend trip to Portland, Airbnb fees can be excessive and with all the fabulous Portland food, you likely won’t be dining at your accommodations!

What To Pack For Your Portland Trip

We have a few final tips for your Portland vacation! Get our top Packing Hacks and more on our Ultimate Packing List . Need a Packing Checklist? Get your FREE Packing Checklist here !

Walking Shoes for Portland

We cover a lot of ground in our Portland 3-Day Itinerary! We recommend wearing a pair of comfortable walking shoes during your exploration. I like to wear these Columbia shoes for women and Kris likes Merrell trail shoes. Both of these shoes are good for most of the nearby Portland hikes, too!

Portland Weather Appropriate Clothing

While summer days in Portland can be hot, nights can be cool. We recommend packing clothing for your trip that can be layered – and even in the summertime, you will likely want at least a lightweight jacket. Extra layers are also essential if going on a jetboat tour or into the Oregon mountains. Remember to bring a wide brimmed hat , good sunscreen and insect repellent , too.

In the non-summer months, it is ideal to have a packable raincoat and a travel umbrella , too!

Portland, Oregon Travel Guide

In our Portland weekend trip itinerary, we have outlined the best things to do in Portland, Oregon. However, it is always a good idea to have a travel guidebook – like this one  – for even more information and to take notes!

Travel Camera for Oregon Photography 

Portland is an incredibly photogenic city! Rather than capturing the sights with your phone, we recommend upgrading to an actual travel camera . We use a Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens . This camera comes bundled with all kinds of fun accessories, making it a perfect budget camera for budding photographers!

Binoculars 

If you do plan on taking day trips from Portland into the nearby nature, we highly recommend bringing binoculars with you. 

Day Bag for your Portland Trip

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , for your long days of Portland sightseeing you will also want a great day pack to organize and secure all of your everyday travel items !

Oregon Travel Guides

Oregon ranks as one of our favorite places to visit in the United States – and we have heaps of tips for fellow traveler! Use our travel guides to help plan your perfect trip to Oregon. 

• Driving to Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
• How To Plan a Oregon Coast Road Trip
• Things To Do in Florence, Oregon (including the best Central Oregon Coast Hikes !)
• What To Do in Bend, Oregon
• All the Best Oregon Things To Do

Start planning your US Trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We Want To Know: Is there anything you would add to our Portland Itinerary? What is your favorite way to spend a Weekend in Portland? Give us your best tips and advice in the comments below!

Visiting Other Top Destinations in The USA? 

We have been fortunate to travel to some of the Best Weekend Destinations in the country – and check out our top Underrated Places to Visit as well!

You can also take a peek at our detailed guides for Indy , Pittsburgh , Cincinnati , Denver , and Chicago . How about a weekend in New Orleans , Nashville , Phoenix ,  Boston , Austin , or San Diego ?

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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The Best of What to Do in Portland, Oregon (3-Day Portland Itinerary)

Last updated on March 26, 2024

From the food trucks to the forests to the creative, quirky vibes, Portland is filled with the ingredients that make up my ideal city. We spent a week there, soaking it all in slowly, and this post is a round-up of our Portland itinerary highlights, which would work well for a weekend or three days in Portland – or more, depending on your pace.

If you’re travelling with little ones, we also have a guide to all the best things to do with kids in Portland . And if you’re planning a wider trip, see our Oregon road trip itinerary , including stops on the epic coast and at natural wonders like Crater Lake.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways I keep this blog going. Thanks a million for your support. You can read more about my affiliate policy  here .

What to do in Portland, Oregon: What’s the city like?

If you’ve ever watched Portlandia, you’ll know the city is famed for its off-kilter, “Keep Portland Weird” vibe that has made the city a magnet for hipsters and eccentrics, and borne an impressive scene of microbreweries, coffee shops, zine culture, and quirky suburbs, filled with independent shops.

There are plenty of things to do in Portland, especially if you’re into food and all things hipster. 

Food trucks dot the city and have been the birthplace of some of the city’s best food, cementing its reputation as one of the Pacific Northwest’s best foodie destinations.

And the whole city is overlooked by the magnificent Mount Tabor, an ever-present reminder of all the natural wonders that surround the city. People have been telling us for years that we’d love it, and it happily lived up to the hype – I even have the ‘We belong in Portland’ mug to prove it!

Go there to eat a smorgasbord of amazing cuisine, explore Oregon’s beautiful nature, and simply soak in the vibes of what is one of the USA’s most individual, open-minded cities.  Here’s the best of what to do in Portland, Oregon.

How to spend three days in Portland, Oregon

I’ve laid out lots of different options below for places to eat and drink, and things to do in Portland, so you can pick and choose your own Portland itinerary based on your priorities. But if you’d prefer an easier option, here’s a suggested three-day plan. You could choose your favourite two days if spending a weekend in Portland.

Day one: Downtown and Pearl District

Spend the day exploring the downtown area, including the stylish Pearl District where you’ll find chic shops, restaurants and galleries. Also take a trip up to Washington Park, including the Portland Japanese Garden and the neighbouring Rose Test Garden, both of which have amazing views across the city.

While in town, take photos at the iconic Portland stag sign and Keep Portland Weird mural, and be sure to try one of the famous Voodoo doughnuts.

Day two: Explore the local neighbourhoods

For your second day, delve into some of Portland’s local neighbourhoods where you’ll get a better sense of the people that make Portland what it is. We recommend visiting the Alberta Arts District and Hawthorne/Division, both of which are filled with independent cafes, bars, restaurants and shops. 

Day three: Get outside and explore the surrounding nature

One of the things that makes Portland so special is the nature that surrounds it. Spend your final day taking a day trip to one of the nearby natural beauty spots. You could head to the Colombia River Gorge to see the Multnomah Falls; drive out to Cannon Beach; or for something more local, go for a hike in Mount Tabor Park.

Portland Itinerary Essentials

How to get around portland.

Portland is well known for TriMet, its excellent public transport system, which includes a max light rail, buses and streetcars.   The Trimet travel planner is a handy way to plan your route, and the app allows you to buy digital tickets without the need for cash. A $2.50 ticket allows you to use any form of transportation within two hours, and there are also daily and weekly passes available.

Another good way to get around is by bike as the city makes it easy with 315 miles of bikeways and the USA’s highest percentage of bike commuters. It even has the title Bike City, USA.

To get from the airport to the centre is an easy 40-minute journey on the max light railway.

However, despite these excellent options, we ended up hiring a car, purely because we were travelling with so much baby stuff and we wanted the easiest option. We stayed in two different places in the city, so knew we’d need to travel between them, and hiring a car worked out cheaper than using taxis. If we had only been staying in one hotel then we wouldn’t have hired a car and instead ordered a taxi to and from the airport.

We mostly walked everywhere, but when we did use the car, for example to get to the Japanese Garden, we found the city an easy place to drive around. But do avoid rush hour. Parking downtown is cheap and easy at the SmartPark garages, starting around $1.50 an hour. We didn’t have to pay for parking outside our hotel or Airbnb.

When to go to Portland

We were in Portland at the start of October and were greeted by crisp sunny days. However, this is somewhat of an anomaly as the city is most famed for its grey skies and rainclouds. For the best chance of clear skies, head there during the summer months, from June-August, when you’ll hopefully be treated to long, dry, sunny days.

Also look into some of the other best destinations in Oregon and try to co-ordinate your trip

Places to visit in Portland: the best areas in the city

Alberta arts district.

The Alberta Arts District was our favourite area of Portland. The quiet but vibrant main street (NE Alberta Street) is lined with interesting cafes, restaurants and shops and it has a peaceful community vibe. It’s an ideal place to get a taste of local Portland life. And if you’re there on the last Thursday of the month, don’t miss Last Thursday, a popular monthly street fair, celebrating grassroots arts, food and culture.

If you want to stay in a local neighbourhood, one of the benefits of staying in Alberta over Hawthorne is that it’s not on a main thoroughfare, so has far less traffic and feels more peaceful. Both take around 30 minutes by bus to get into the downtown area (depending on where you start from).

Hawthorne / Division

South East Hawthorne Boulevard is a busy Portland street lined with vintage shops, boutiques and cafés, and is one of the most popular counterculture areas of the city. It’s an ideal place to people watch and experience the “weirdness” that Portland is known for.

The boulevard itself is a busy main road, but there are pretty residential areas on either side of it. It runs parallel to South East Division Street, which has become one of the city’s best foodie neighbourhoods. While staying in Hawthorne, we walked to the downtown area in about an hour, but you can also easily hop on a bus.

Downtown / Pearl District

If you prefer to be in the centre rather than a suburb, Portland’s compact downtown area is a convenient place to stay with good transport links to everywhere else in the city. It’s where you’ll find the big hotels, including hipster stalwarts like the Ace and Hoxton, and the Alder Street Pod, which is the city’s biggest collection of food carts.

Downtown is right next to the Pearl District, a former warehouse district that is best known for its chic shops and restaurants that line atmospheric cobblestone streets. It’s also home to Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookshop. Stay here to be ideally located for all the best places to visit in Portland.

Where to stay in Portland, Oregon

Caravan, tiny house hotel.

Caravan, the Tiny House Hotel , is a quintessential Portland experience where you can find out what it’s like to live in a custom-made tiny house on wheels. It’s an idea that was borne of the tiny house movement where people try to downsize and live in tiny houses, which make an economical and sustainable choice.

Caravan has six charming tiny houses to choose from, built by local builders, and all with a distinct style and ingenious use of space. The houses have all the modern comforts you need, including flush toilets, hot showers, electric heat, a sitting area and kitchen.

They’re centered around an atmospheric communal fire pit where you can spend the evenings roasting s’mores and getting to know your fellow guests.

We stayed in Pacifica, which was surprisingly spacious with a mezzanine bedroom, undulating roofline and lots of colourful touches that nod to its name. Pacifica is wheelchair accessible, but you must give 48 hours notice for the ramp to be set up.

Even if you don’t stay there, you Caravan is worth a visit and they offer regular guided tours.

Portland is an example of a city that has integrated Airbnb really well and as such there’s a plethora of excellent options. You have to have a licence to use Airbnb in your home and all the hosts seem to have taken their role to the next level, offering above and beyond what one would expect, from handmade guidebooks to local produce in the fridge. We were completely spoiled for choice and have created a guide to the best Airbnbs in Portland .

We chose a retro-inspired apartment in Hawthorne , which was tastefully decorated and had plenty of room for the three of us. It was also perfectly located for exploring both Hawthorne and Division – we were just steps away from what became one of our favourite food trucks (Fried Egg, I’m in Love).

The apartment was on the lower-ground floor of a family home, which is the case for many Airbnb’s in the area, but despite being mostly below ground, it didn’t feel dingy and had good natural light. Book your stay there now .

There are lots of trendy hotel options in the downtown area, which would be a convenient place to stay for a short trip to the city. Some of the best options are: the uber-trendy Ace Hotel ; the new Hoxton Hotel (one of my favourite hotel brands); and the Hi-Lo , part of the design-conscious Autograph Collection.

Where to eat in Portland, Oregon

Sampling Portland’s cuisine should be high on anyone’s list of priorities for the city – it’s become a well-known foodie destination, best known for its high-end food carts, many of which have given rise to some of the city’s best restaurants. There’s a dizzying amount of places to choose from, so much so that we often went to two places for one meal, sharing a dish from each! I’ve written a dedicated post with all our favourite places to eat in Portland.

As we’re vegetarian, it’s a guide to the best vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Portland , but would suit meat-eaters too. You could try on of the food tours below to get a good overview. 

The best things to do in Portland, Oregon

Powell’s city of books.

Powell’s City of Books is the world’s biggest independent bookstore, occupying a whole city block and including nine colour-coded rooms with over 3,500 different sections. It’s crack for book lovers and you could easily spend a whole day there. It’ definitely one of the top things to do in Portland.

Portland Japanese Garden

One of the most beautiful spots in the city is the acclaimed 12-acre Portland Japanese Garden, which features five different garden styles and is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. Set on a hill overlooking the city, the garden’s view of Mount Hood is fantastic.

International Rose Test Garden

Just next to the Japanese Garden is Portland’s International Rose Test Garden, featuring over 10,000 different rose bushes. Like the Japanese Garden, it has gorgeous views across the city. Both are in the city’s attractive Washington Park.

Keep Portland Weird sign

For a good photo opportunity, visit the Keep Portland Weird mural. It’s across the road from Voodoo Doughnuts and behind Dante’s club. The address is 350 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209.

Portland stag sign

Another good photo opportunity is the iconic Portland stag sign, which you can see on top of the White Stag building at 70 NW Couch Street. It’s right next to the Saturday Market.

Saturday Market

The bustling Saturday Market in downtown Portland is a fun way to spend the morning, trying different food stalls and shopping the local handcrafted goods. There are over 250 different stalls.

Vintage video game arcade

For a classic Portland experience, try one of the vintage video game arcades, featuring old-school classics and pinball machines. Ground Kontrol is in downtown Portland and Quarter World Arcade is on SE Hawthorne.

Common Ground Spa

For a bit of rest and relaxation, pay a visit to the co-operative-run Common Ground Spa where you can soak in a salt pool and enjoy a dry cedar wood sauna. They also offer a range of different treatments, including massages and acupuncture.

Mount Tabor Park

For a gorgeous view of the city, take a hike up Mount Tabor Park, which sits on top of an extinct volcanic cinder cone

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a designated National Scenic Area just 40 minutes from downtown Portland. There are plenty of hikes to be enjoyed, including scenic waterfalls and mountain bike trails. One of the most popular sights is the Multnomah waterfall, which can be seen from the roadside. However, the parking can be very difficult, especially at weekends. Here are some other good hikes to do near Portland .

Visit Cannon Beach or Seaside

Cannon Beach and Seaside are two popular beach towns just 90 minutes from the city. Seaside is particularly popular with families and Cannon Beach is stunning with a rugged coastline and plenty of hiking trails. Here’s an Oregon Coast road trip that includes other beautiful spots or you could even head further north and combine it all with a Canada road trip .

Retro vintage shopping

Portland has some great shopping, especially of the vintage, retro and independent variety. I found the best place to browse was along SE Hawthorne Boulevard, which had loads of options, incluidng some huge vintage emporiums.

If you fancy sitting back and letting someone else do the navigating for you, then you could try joining a tour while in the city. I didn’t do any of these, but here are a few I came across that have good reviews.

Explore more of Oregon

A good way to extend your trip to Portland would be to take an overnight trip to Bend. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Bend and a local’s guide to the best hotels in Bend . Or alternatively, head to Crater Lake. Here’s a guide to some of the best Crater Lake activities or another for the best things to do in Crater Lake in winter .

Enjoyed this post? Share it on Pinterest.

Top travel tips for Portland, Oregon

Don’t forget your travel insurance! We recommend  World Nomads  or  True Traveller who both offer reliable, comprehensive cover, including medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of  adventure sports and activities . You can buy both True Traveller and World Nomads insurance even when you’ve left home, which is unusual for travel insurance companies.

If you decide to hire a car, book with  Rentalcars.com . They always have the best deals.

Check out more of  our detailed itinerary posts here .

5 thoughts on “The Best of What to Do in Portland, Oregon (3-Day Portland Itinerary)”

We fell in love with Portland during our 4 month road trip across the states. We wrote a little bit about some off the beaten path things to do while in the city. Here are our thoughts: https://www.ditchthemap.com/travel-blog/2018/10/18/portland

I hope your readers will enjoy this blog about quirky things to do in Portland.

I enjoy reading this blog, cool place ..Thanks for the travel tips for Portland,and for sharing your journey.

This is a fun list! As someone who lives in Portland I need to get with it and finally check out some of these spots.

There’s seriously not enough reading material as well laid out as above about Portland

Thanks for sharing all the great info on the portland area. Always great to learn about some new spots.

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A Local’s Guide to the Top 16 Things to Do in Portland Oregon

It’s no longer a secret that Portland, Oregon is a cool place to live and to visit. In this post, we share the top things to see and do that we recommend to our friends and family who visit Portland .

Portland has many other attractions, of course, but these are our personal favorites that we would prioritize.

Jedd and I first met in Portland back in 2007, and the city has experienced a major boom since those days. In fact, it’s become such a popular tourist destination that some places touted as “local Portland landmarks” are now frequented almost entirely by out-of-town visitors.

Since becoming nomadic, we still return to Portland often. The fact that I was born there is additional street cred (especially considering that many of the people you meet in Portland now are transplants from California).

Although it’s changed a lot, we still have our favorite spots, and we love to help people discover the classic parts of Portland that we first came to love.

In this post, we’ll cover:

– Top 16 things to see and do in Portland from a local’s perspective – Our favorite Portland restaurants – Awesome day trips from Portland – The best time of year to visit Oregon – Where to stay in Portland (plus an Airbnb discount)  

* Access our free Portland packing checklist here *

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Oregon? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Oregon here: What you need to know about Oregon travel right now

Photo credits: In addition to our own images, many of the pictures in this post were taken by our brother, Joel Chang.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that we only recommend places we truly love.

Table of Contents

1. Powell’s Books: Famous Portland Landmark

Out of all the things to do in Portland, Powell’s City of Books is probably on every single top ten list. It’s one of the few “mainstream” attractions in downtown that we’d recommend 100% to any visitor because it’s truly unique to Portland.

If you’re not familiar, Powell’s is one of a few brick-and-mortar book stores still thriving in the age of Amazon. It takes up a full city block with multiple levels – about 1.6 acres of retail space! Even if you don’t make a purchase, a visit to Powell’s Books is an experience in itself. Just wander around!

Powell’s now has a few satellite locations, but as a visitor, the main location downtown in the Pearl district is the one you want to see. Check it out at 1005 W Burnside St (on the corner of 10th Avenue and West Burnside). Enjoy a free guided tour on Sundays at 10 a.m. or 4 p.m.

2. Best Portland Neighborhoods (Sellwood!)

Personally, we prefer Portland neighborhoods over the downtown area . If you’re a city person, there are plenty of things going on in the city center that you’d probably love. But it’s almost a different world downtown, and we always recommend that visitors prioritize some time to explore at least one of Portland’s cozy, quirky neighborhoods.

Our all-time favorite neighborhood in Portland is Sellwood-Westmoreland , located down south along the Willamette River. It has its own small town feel that’s a bit different than other communities in the city. In fact, Sellwood is a bit off the beaten path. As amazing as it is, most visitors only see the more “famous” neighborhoods (more on those below).

We love the wide streets lined with trees and sidewalks, beautiful parks, small shops, and family-friendly feel in Sellwood. It’s also home to our favorite restaurant in Portland, Jade Bistro and Patisserie, which serves up delightful Southeast Asia fusion dishes in a bright, casual atmosphere.

Also check out Tea Chai Te – a cafe built out of an old train car! If you’re into biking, running, or walking, be sure to check out the extensive Springwater Corridor  multi-use trail which loops through Sellwood and continues up the river.

As far as other Portland neighborhoods go, you can take your pick from NW 23rd Street , The Pearl District , Belmont Street , Alberta Arts District , Mississippi Avenue , and Hawthorne Boulevard . Each one has a trendy commercial district with interesting shops, cafes, and its own variation of that artsy/quirky/green Portland vibe.

Northwest 23rd and The Pearl are both districts in Northwest Portland. They’re essentially downtown, and they tend to have higher-end shops.

The other neighborhoods are all East of the Willamette River. Belmont, Alberta, Mississippi , and Hawthorne  are street names where thriving, local businesses are the centerpoint, surrounded by charming residential communities.

You can’t really go wrong to pick one or two, walk the streets, window shop, and enjoy a meal.

3. International Rose Test Garden and Hoyt Arboretum

See more #JumpingJedd pics around the world here

A huge part of Portland’s appeal is the natural beauty, which is why we chose our next two recommendations. The International Rose Test Garden and Hoyt Arboretum are neighboring parks just above downtown that are free to the public.

You can enjoy both back to back or choose one that appeals most to you. (The Portland Japanese Garden is also next door, which is also highly recommended, though there is an admission fee.)

The Rose Garden is quite extensive. The roses usually bloom from April through October, which is really the best time to visit Portland anyway, as we’ll discuss below. Portland is known as the “City of Roses” so this attraction is an iconic part of the city.

Parking near these parks can get busy in peak seasons, but it’s also accessible via the Washington Park Shuttle from the MAX light rail’s  Washington Park  station. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the gardens or hike around both parks for exercise.

4. Council Crest Scenic Portland Viewpoint

One of our favorite views overlooks the whole city of Portland from Council Crest hill , above downtown. It’s one of the highest points in city limits.

You can get to Council Crest by car or hike up via an urban trail system. On a clear day, you’ll see wonderful views of the area’s snow-capped mountains.

This is one of those spots that locals know and love, but it’s less common on the tourist track. It can be a nice place for a picnic, the end of a rewarding urban hike, or just a quick drive-in-and-out stop.

5. OMSI: Oregon Museums of Science and Industry

OMSI is a long-time favorite Portland attraction for locals. I grew up visiting this hands-on science museum as a child, and I still enjoy the experience as an adult.

There are a number of permanent interactive exhibits like brain-teaser puzzles, the human body, earthquakes, and fun physics experiments. The museum also features rotating temporary exhibits and IMAX movies. It’s a great place to bring the family for a rainy afternoon.

Bonus if you’re in Portland on the first Sunday of the month: OMSI admission is only $2!

6. Salt & Straw Ice Cream Shop

Everyone thinks Voodoo Donuts is iconic Portland. Yes, they have weird donut shapes and flavors, but guess what? Those long lines out the door are 90% tourists. Locals are over it and have found other favorite donut shops, namely Pips and Blue Star .

Portland’s true sweet sensation is Salt & Straw ice cream . Granted, you still have to stand in line. And yes, they have locations outside of Portland as well. But even locals think it’s worth the wait.

What makes Salt & Straw special is their hand-made, local flavors. Combinations like pear and blue cheese, strawberry honey balsamic with black pepper, and sea salt caramel are not only unusual, many are quintessentially Northwest. You can find all 4 scoop shop locations here .

Classic Portland Experiences

Our remaining Portland recommendations are not necessarily specific points but rather broader categories of popular activities for Portland. Visitors and locals alike love these, so I’d rank them about the top non-touristy things to do in Portland, Oregon.

7. Portland Food Carts

Food carts are ubiquitous in Portland. New “pods,” or groupings of food trucks, have continued to pop up in nearly every neighborhood across the city.

The most well-known food cart pods began in downtown, where inner-city workers order lunch. You can find nearly every type of ethnic food, from taco trucks to Thai to fancy hand-made Italian pasta carts.

Not every food cart has amazing food, but you can easily sample dishes from multiple places at once. Many of the food cart pods outside of downtown will also have a common area for tables and sometimes a bar. There’s a map of the various locations on the Portland Food Carts website .

For one of the top quality food carts in town, visit Artigiano on SE Division Street (open weekend nights May through October). This outdoor osteria serves authentic, handmade Italian dishes inspired by the chef’s annual research trips to Italy.

Jedd’s oldest brother helps out the chef, Rachael. We recommend ordering the chef’s choice menu and eating family style.

8. Visit Portland Breweries

Craft beers, and the breweries that produce them, are also ubiquitous in Portland. Several dozen craft breweries originated in Portland, with Widmer Brothers being one of the big-name originals.

True to the Portland spirit, Hair of the Dog Brewery  prides itself on originality. Their tasting room on SE Yamhill features uniquely-named beers on tap, served alongside pub food with a local twist.

The traditional English-style  Horse Brass Pub , an establishment that pre-dates Portland’s micro-brew explosion, is located on SE Belmont. They keep 59 beers on tap and serve them up in proper Imperial pints.

The Portland Cider Company Cider House on SE Hawthorne serves up a couple dozen ciders on tap, all produced in the Northwest. For fresh, local ciders, there’s no better place.

Check out this brewery guide  to do some beer tastings or indulge in a hearty meal alongside a refreshing pint.

9. Portland Farmers Markets and Street Fairs

The local flavor of Portland is incredibly vibrant in the various markets across the city. Markets are a great way to experience not only the products and produce of the region but also the people.

The Farmer’s Market every Saturday at PSU has the ultimate Portland vibe and is great for people watching. The Saturday Market  is a large, outdoor arts and crafts market located under the Burnside Bridge. These two are the most well known markets. Both are accessible via public transit and close during the winter months.

Olympia Provisions  has a booth at the market in addition to their two restaurant locations in Portland. Their specialty is handmade, traditionally cured meats.

In addition to fresh produce and locally-made products, the Portland Farmer’s Market is also a great place to grab a meal, like this farm-to-fork breakfast dish by  Verde Cocina .

Most neighborhoods also have their own smaller farmer’s markets during the week. And annual street fairs , featuring local artists and food vendors, are a popular activity during the summer.

10. Best Portland Food & Restaurants

Portland is no doubt a foodie town. Chain restaurants are rare in the city. Instead, you’ll find all kinds of locally owned restaurants to suit any taste or dietary restriction. Of course, everyone has their own favorites.

As we mentioned in the neighborhood section, Jade Bistro and Patisserie in Sellwood is our personal favorite, with indoor and outdoor seating. I always order the wide rice noodles, which resembles a Thai pad see ew . The truffle fries are a must try, too.

Jenny and Tammy at Swiss Hibiscus restaurant (just off of Alberta on NE 14th) not only serve up amazing Swiss-European food with Hawaiian “aloha spirit”, they’ve also become friends as well as clients of ours. 

Paprika schnitzel and goulash, both served with spätzli, followed a tasty soup, salad, and bread. Swiss cuisine is similar to German, which a hint of French and Italian, too. As far as we know, Swiss Hibiscus is the only Swiss restaurant in the area. It was #1 on Trip Advisor for a while and their fantastic dressing has been featured on Diner, Drive-ins, and Dives.

It’s hard to beat the value you get with Saburo’s super-sized nigiri and jumbo sushi rolls in the Sellwood neighborhood. The place is only open for dinner, and there is often a long line wrapped around the outside of the building of people waiting for a table. We typically put our name on the wait list as soon as we arrive, and then take a walk around Sellwood – the best neighborhood in Portland 😉 – while we wait.

Though we’re not “fast food people,” we can’t help but love the burgers, fries, and shakes at Burgerville , which focuses on local ingredients and sustainability. I’d call Burgerville an iconic eatery in the Northwest region.

Ken’s Artisan Pizza is another Portland icon. Ken Forkish makes obsessively good, Italian-style wood-fired pizza in Southeast Portland.

There are countless “ best” bakeries in Portland. Try Ken’s Artisan Bakery (a sister shop to his pizza place) on Northwest 21st, Pix Patisserie on Burnside for desserts that are a work of art, and any of the Petite Provence locations for French-style pastries and delicious breakfasts.

For the best bagels in Portland , head to Bentley’s Bagels in downtown Nob’s Hill area for New York style boiled bagels.

For a Portland restaurant with quirkiness and atmosphere (but average food and service), McMenamin’s Kennedy School is super intriguing to explore. 

11. Best Coffee in Portland

Coffee is also a big part of Portland culture. Different people swear by different roasters. Popular local makers include Stumptown and Coava , but new roasters and coffee houses are popping up every year.

Coava Coffee has made a name for itself with conscientious, single-origin coffees. The spacious Brew Bar on SE Grand serves as the company’s tasting room and storefront for their roastery.

A favorite Portland coffeeshop of ours is Cathedral Coffee with cool interior and outdoor spaces to hang out in a residential neighborhood of North Portland.

Best Day Trips from Portland Oregon

Another winning attribute about Portland is that it’s perfectly poised amidst other amazing places to visit . From the city, you’re only an hour’s drive from the ocean, the mountains, the high dessert, impressive gorges, and countless waterfalls. Even Seattle is only a three hour drive (in low traffic).

If you have access to car and some time to spare while visiting Portland, we strongly encourage you to take a day trip to any of the places below.

13. Columbia River Gorge waterfall hikes

The Columbia River Gorge is one of Oregon’s most scenic drives. Take I-84 East from Portland and you’ll soon be zipping along the massive Columbia River, with Washington State just across the water. As you approach Corbett, take the slower but more scenic Old Highway through a canopy of trees and past one waterfall after another. Choose one for a hike, depending on how far you want to walk.

The crowning glory of the Columbia Gorge is Multnomah Falls , a spectacularly tall waterfall. It can be seen from the highway but it’s worth pulling over and getting a closer look. This happens to be one of the most visited attractions in the state, so expect traffic to back up.

Unfortunately some areas of the Gorge suffered from major fire damage so check beforehand for these areas, which may still be closed to the public: Benson State Recreation Area, Sheppard’s Dell State Natural Area, Angel’s Rest Trailhead, John B. Yeon Trailhead, Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, Toothrock Trailhead, Ainsworth Day Use area and Starvation Creek State Park.

14. Oregon Wine Country

The Willamette Valley is making a name for itself on the world wine stage. Just a short drive southwest from Portland, you’ll find yourself amidst beautiful rolling hills and vineyards. Small towns like  McMinnville , Independence , Newberg, Dundee, and Carlton have grown to accommodate more and more wine producers, tasting rooms, and other amenities for tourists.

The region’s Pinot Noir is perhaps most popular. But Pinot gris, Pinot blanc, Chardonnay, and Riesling are also grown in the area. You can use this interactive winery map  to plan your own wine tasting tour.

15. Silver Falls and Silverton, Oregon

One of Oregon’s best kept secrets in the spectacular Silver Falls State Park. Where else can you visit 10 waterfalls in one hike? Not only that, but you can actually walk behind two of the largest waterfalls. The landscape reminds us of Lord of the Rings. It’s undoubtedly one of our all-time favorite places.

Silver Falls is an hour and a half drive south of Portland. If you prefer to make it an overnight trip, you can either camp at the State Park or find accommodations in the nearby town of Silverton , where we enjoyed a stay at the beautiful Oregon Gardens Resort.

16. Salem, Oregon

Oregon’s capitol, Salem, is roughly an hour South of Portland on I-5. Since it’s the closest thing to a “homebase” for us, we do have quite a few recommendations for Salem, including more side trips .

When is the best time to visit Portland?

Summer is really the best time to visit Portland , in our opinion. The skies are blue, the land is green, temperatures are warm, and traffic lightens a bit without school in session.

While the weather is getting more unpredictable, you’re more likely to get long stretches of soggy and dreary weather from mid October through mid April. It’s manageable with a good rain coat if that’s the only time you have to visit. But daylight also gets really short in the winter months.

May and June can be hit or miss with rain. July and August are usually rain-free but can occasionally get quite hot. September is usually pretty spectacular.

How To Get Around Portland

You can get around Portland relatively easily without a vehicle if you stay within walking distance of a MAX light rail station . Buses also run regularly and are widespread across the city.

Another option would be to get a Zipcar membership (though it’s probably not worth it for a short visit if you don’t also use their network in your hometown).

Biketown bicycle rentals by Nike and scooter rentals are also available on many street corners. And of course, there’s always Uber or Lyft.

If you’re on an Oregon road trip or drive to Portland with your own car, know that parking and traffic are getting more challenging each year. Ten years ago we could drive across Portland in 20 minutes. Not so anymore!

Where to Stay in Portland

Where to stay in Portland depends on where you want to visit and whether you have a car. There are many different options for accommodations in Portland, including Airbnb rentals, chain hotels, quirky hostels, and everything in between.

I heard that Portland has the highest saturation of Airbnb hosts for any city. That’s partly thanks to the city’s lax regulations on ADU’s (Accessory Dwelling Units) and also because Airbnb has an office in Portland!

Personally, I’ve always wanted to stay at McMenamin’s Kennedy School because it’s so unique.

The McMenamin’s franchise is well known for refurbishing historic buildings into funky brew pub restaurants. Located in Northeast Portland off the beaten path, the Kennedy School is a former elementary school that now houses a restaurant, bars, movie theater, heated saltwater soaking pool, hotel rooms, and more murals than you can count.

>> Click here for photos, prices, and availability at the Kennedy School <<

The Duniway by Hilton is one of the higher end, hip and modern downtown hotels. The 4 star property is well located and very classy.

>> Click here for prices and availability at The Duniway <<

That just about covers our favorite places and top things to do in Portland, Oregon. Did we miss anything? What is your #1 recommendation in Portland? Let us know in the comments!

Going to Portland? Take this article with you as your local’s guide to Portland! Upload the article for free to your phone with the  GPSmyCity app . You can also upgrade to get an offline GPS map that guides you to each location we mention. Or subscribe to access all articles and maps for a full year.

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NW 23rd and the Pearl are in NW Portland, not northeast!

Ah! Thanks so much for catching that typo. It has been fixed!

Portland is such a unique city. Powells is defiantly one of the best spots there!

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The Perfect 3 Days in Portland Itinerary (2024 Update)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

If you’re planning to have a fun-filled 3 days in Portland and don’t know where to start, then this epic Portland itinerary will have you making the most of your time in Oregon!

So you’re thinking about exploring all of the incredible places to see in Portland, Oregon that millions of its residents have come to enjoy about their city?

Well you’ve come to the right place!

Boasting a diverse culture, spectacular landscapes and enough microbreweries to keep you sampling beer for weeks, Portland is a great place to visit as you tour the Pacific Northwest. 

Filled with more activities, attractions and highlights than should be fair for any one city (seriously, check out our full-on guide to the best things to do in Portland ), it’s little wonder it’s quickly becoming everyone’s favorite town in the US.

While a coin toss almost named the city after Boston instead of its namesake in Maine, the west coast city of Portland has had no problem establishing an identity for itself.

Today the city is known for being at the center of the progressive movement that aims to be more environmentally conscious and focused on improving the overall quality of life for its residents. 

There’s little wonder that it’s rising through the ranks as one of the top spots to come for a weekend anywhere in the United States.

If you’ve set aside 3 days in Portland, you will have the chance to see Mt. Hood standing tall in the backdrop of the city while you wander the historic Old Town.

You can relax in the many parks and gardens in the city and even saunter off to explore local wines, waterfalls and wonderful food delivered from farm to table.

If that sounds like a good way to enjoy your well-earned vacation, then my post will help guide you with exactly what to do on with your short Portland itinerary.

Ready to get started? 

Table of Contents

Portland Saturday Market

Shanghai tunnels, lan su chinese garden & museum, voodoo doughnuts, powell’s city of books, deschutes brewery, multnomah falls, willamette valley wine, hike forest park, an evening back in portland, oregon historical society and portland art museum, pioneer courthouse square, portland japanese garden, international rose test garden, hoyt arboretum, pittock mansion, witches castle, when to visit portland, getting around portland oregon, budget accommodation – hi portland northwest, mid-range accommodation – hotel deluxe, luxury accommodation – the society hotel, budget – voodoo doughnuts, mid-range – q restaurant and bar, high-end – jake’s famous crawfish, how to spend a perfect 3 days in portland itinerary.

A couple of nights here is just scratching the surface of all there is to see and do in the city.

For this Portland itinerary we’ve divided up your time into 3 sections.

We advise you to think about your time in Portland along with the following segments, which you can choose to extend or skip depending on your interests.

The first day will take you downtown into the heart of the city and it’s famous Old Town.

Next, you’ll have a day to get out of town a little for some perspective on why Portland is such a unique place.

Whether you want to hike or simply drive through the scenic country, you’ll appreciate the city of Portland more after this quick excursion.

Finally, we’ll bring you back into the city to explore the outskirts of town in the vast Washington Park.

From here you can mosy back down into the downtown and Old Town area to finish anything on your list from the first day.

Of course, we expect you’re going to want to come back to the city to finish everything on your Portland itinerary.

But at least we’ll give you the best the city has to offer in such a short amount of time! 

Related: Don’t miss out on all of the best day trips from Portland !

Day 1 – Wander Historic Old Town and Downtown Portland

The first day of the Portland itinerary will begin in the historic Old Town. Known for its inclusion of Old Town Chinatown, this part of town covers a few city blocks along the Willamette River.

You’ll find everything from quirky shops, restaurants and bars to many unique local businesses. 

If your plans include visiting Portland over the weekend then you will want to start your day at the local Saturday Market.

Every Saturday and Sunday between March and Christmas Eve hundreds of vendors will set up booths in Tom McCall Waterfront Park beneath the Burnside Bridge.

Find unique art, delicious munchies and a variety of entertainment as you stroll through the market for a uniquely Portland experience. 

From here you’ll make your way up to the Chinatown Gates and the official entrance into Portland’s classic Chinatown. As a city within a city center, there are lots of shops to explore and food to enjoy. 

One of the biggest Portland attractions in Chinatown are the Shanghai Tunnels. Officially known as the Old Portland Underground , the tunnels are a series of underground passageways connecting a variety of shops and businesses.

As they were first intended, these tunnels were a passageway for transporting merchandise from the docks on the Willamette River to the various storehouse and shops via their basements.

This led to the opportunity for organized crime and the practice of “shanghaiing,” which is essentially the kidnap and conscription of sailors against their will.

Of course, over time myth and lore blended with true history and today, there are a variety of tours offering a behind-the-scenes look at the Shanghai Tunnels. 

After touring the Shanghai Tunnels, head over to a more peaceful part of Old Town and visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden.

Despite the hustle and bustle of the 25th largest US city, the gardens intentionally offer tranquility to its visitors.

Stroll through the gardens on your own time, sit for tea and learn calligraphy, learn to play the traditional Chinese board game Wei Chi or practice Yang Style Tai Chi. 

To learn more about the Chinese influence in Portland’s history, double back to the Chinatown Museum.

Only open in the afternoon between Thursday and Sunday, the museum is proud to present a no-holds-bar portrayal of life for Chinese immigrants in the Pacific Northwest. 

• Cost : $12.95
• Hours : 10 am – 4 pm (closed Wednesdays)
• Address : 239 NW Everett St

If you haven’t already filled up at any number of shops or restaurants in Chinatown, this is a great time to fill up on the famous Voodoo Doughnuts.

Known as much for their delicious doughnuts as for the quirky names they give them, Voodoo Doughnuts is a staple to Old Town Portland Oregon.

But you can also grab a bite to eat at Portland City Grill, Mother’s Bistro and Bar and Kells Irish Restaurant and Pub , all within a block of each other. 

If you’re a big foodie, you can even embark on an underground donut tour of Portland !

Spend the afternoon perusing books at Powell’s City of Books. The largest independent bookstore in Portland, Powell’s City of Books location in Old Town boasts an inventory of over 1 million books!

Get lost in the shelves or take a tour of the store. As a lover of books, we think the best thing is just to wander around in search of one particular book to see what other books turn up along the way. 

And whenever you begin to get thirsty for a cold beer, head a few blocks further to Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House.

Enjoy a draft beer brewed in-house or sit down for a full meal as you recap the day and prepare for your next adventure.

Deschutes Brewery is one of Oregon’s proudest and most successful breweries and well worth a taste while you’re in the area. 

At this point in the day, you can either plan to retreat to your hotel to rest up for the next day in this busy Portland itinerary or you can head out into the Portland evening for a night on the town.

You are right in the middle of everything the city has to offer at night so enjoy your time out while visiting Portland.

READ MORE: Use this itinerary to plan the perfect 3 days in San Francisco

Day 2 – Portland Mini-Excursion 

On day 2 of your 3 days in Portland itinerary, you’re going to have the chance to get out of the city a little bit to reflect on why this part of the country attracts so many people. 

You’ve likely already asked yourself what mountain is in the background as you have turned corners in walking throughout the city.

This towering mountain is Mt. Hood and is one of the unique ways in which Portland can be identified. 

Located 2 hours through a spectacular drive through the Columbia River Gorge a day trip to visit Mt. Hood is beautiful from start to finish.

Join a tour or drive yourself out and enjoy spectacular views along the way. There are plenty of places to stop and hike.

If you don’t have your own wheels but want to get some to do the trip independently, then head over to the Rental Cars website to find the best value rentals in Portland.

And you’re going to definitely want to stop at Multnomah Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in all of the US. 

Multnomah Falls is the most popular of dozens of waterfalls in the area. Located in the Columbia River Gorge, the falls consist of two drops.

The higher falls is 542 feet that cascade into a pool which then drops another 69 feet to the bottom of the creek. 

While the waterfall was geologically formed around 15,000 years ago, more popular legend says that it formed when a young Native American woman sacrificed herself by falling off the top in order to appease the Great Spirit and save her tribe from a terrible plague.

Upon her death water began flowing down the falls. 

Regardless of its source, viewing the waterfall is well worth the visit especially when combined with several other waterfalls in the area. 

This half-day tour is a fantastic way to get out there. If you love nature, definitely include this stop in your Portland itinerary.

If you are interested in wine, a quick trip to the Willamette Valley an hour south of Portland is definitely worth your time. 

The soil in the valley is very fertile thanks to the volcanic activity that shaped this part of the country.

As such, combined with a climate perfect for growing grapes, there are now over a half dozen world-class wineries in Willamette Valley. 

You can take a self-guided tour of the vineyards with your own vehicle. Or join a tour from Portland and don’t worry about how much wine you drink ! 

If you do have your own transportation, however, and are kicking yourself for having to choose between wine and waterfalls, don’t worry.

Silver Falls State Park is under a half an hour drive through beautiful landscapes and boasts over 20 miles of trails that will lead you to 10 different waterfalls.

You don’t have to hike them all, of course. Most waterfalls are quickly accessible from parking areas throughout the park. 

This tour combines Silver Falls with Willamette Wine Country, so you can hit both in one trip. Wine country is also a great weekend trip, if you have more time and are really into wine!

If you have no desire, or means, to get away from the city during your 3 days in Portland, then you can still experience the great outdoors by spending a few hours hiking through Forest Park. 

Covering over 5,000 acres, Forest Park has 80 miles of trails that you can hike, bike or jog.

Open from 5 am until 10 pm, you can spend as much or as little time exercising or simply enjoying nature that is tucked within the reach of Portland. 

Depending on how far you ventured out during the day you are likely to want to come back to your hotel and rest up for your final day in your Portland itinerary. 

But if you want to continue to try and sample all of the delicious craft beers in the city or want to catch a comedy show or concert, head back into Old Town or downtown Portland for the evening. 

READ MORE: Use this itinerary to plan the perfect 3 days in Seattle .

Day 3 – Downtown Portland

Depending on how fast you moved through Old Town, you might have already skipped into downtown on day 1 of your 3 days in Portland itinerary.

But if you didn’t venture out yet there are a few places you should visit. 

Start out at Voodoo Doughnuts on the fringe of Old Town. Then head two blocks to Tom McCall Waterfront Park .

If you’re here on a Saturday you can enjoy the Saturday Market . Otherwise, enjoy a stroll down the riverfront on the waterfront park trail, or browse the local businesses throughout town. 

If you’re interested in history, then cross the street back over to the Oregon Historical Society. Here, among other things, you can see the penny that was flipped to determine the name of the city.

There are a series of other displays and revolving exhibits that highlight Oregon’s rich history.

Head another two blocks to the Portland Art Museum if you are interested in traditional art museums, with a particular emphasis on Native American, Asian and American arts.

• Hours : 10 am – 5 pm (Closed Mon/Tues)
• Address : 1219 SW Park Ave.

Or you can head just a few short blocks to the Pioneer Courthouse Square at the heart of the city of Portland.

Affectionately known as “Portland’s living room,” the massive square hosts a variety of over 300 events throughout the year.

The milepost sign is one of the most recognizable features of the square.

Though anyone who has spent any time passing through Portland, let alone living here, will tell you that they’ve attended festivals and concerts, markets, runs and races and political events in the square as well. 

Be sure to check what events are taking place during your visit as there is almost guaranteed to be something going on during your 3 days in Portland.

At this point, you are in the perfect position to make another decision about how to spend the remaining time of your Portland itinerary.

If you enjoyed Old Town and Chinatown you are back on the cusp of entering those neighborhoods again. Be sure to check off anything you didn’t see or do on your first day. 

Alternatively, if there is a soccer match taking place it will be at the stadium at Providence Park .

Portland is known for its soccer fanatics. So if there happens to be a match this will definitely be a unique way to take in a few hours. 

Lastly, you can head up to Washington Park where a whole other world awaits you. Here over 140 hectares of city park invites you to explore the many activities in the park.  

The Portland Japanese Garden has 12 acres featuring 8 different gardens and a magnificent view of Mt. Hood.

Enjoy the peace and tranquility the traditional Japanese garden offers, including a tea house and numerous walkways and streams that reflect the Japanese aesthetic.  

• Cost : $16.95
• Hours : 10am – 3:30pm, closed Tuesdays
• Address : 611 SW Kingston Ave

The International Rose Test Garden features over 10,000 rose bushes and 650 varieties of roses.

As Portland has been dubbed the City of Roses, the International Rose Test Garden receives roses from all over the world where they are evaluated on a number of characteristics.

With 4.5 acres and numerous gardens you can walk through and enjoy views of Mt. Hood. 

• Cost : FREE
• Hours : 5am – 10pm
• Address : 400 SW Kingston Ave

The Hoyt Arboretum invites you to wander through 12 miles of trails that traverse through over 2,000 species of trees and shrubs from 6 continents.

The arboretum invites you to enjoy the park at your own pace. But there are also guided tours and classes offered on the weekends where you can learn more about the species of plants in the park. 

• Address : 4000 SW Fairview Blvd

If you haven’t had your fill today, you can head over to the Pittock Mansion, a 46-room French chateau-inspired residence.

Completed in 1914, the mansion has a history of scandal surrounding the Pittock family.

But the size and beauty of the mansion is not to be diminished by its scandalous history. 

(The Pittock Mansion is closed for the month of January 2022 for maintenance. Check the website for updates!)

• Hours : 10am – 4pm, opens at 12pm on Tuesdays
• Address : 3229 NW Pittock Dr

Just down the hill from Pittock Mansion is the Witches Castle. The remnants of a stone home built in the mid-1800s is all that remains, along with the lore of it’s one murderous owner Danford Balch.

Balch hired a helper to clear the land around the home. In the process, this helper fell in love with Balch’s daughter and eloped against his will.

Long story short, Balch murdered his daughter’s husband and after the trial he became Oregon’s first legal execution.

Today the home has been abandoned and moss has overgrown the building. It gained its name in the 1980s as groups of teenagers used the home to party. 

It’s been a very busy 3 days in Portland and you’re likely going to spend the evening getting ready to leave the next day.

But if you still have some energy left, you could head across the Willamette River in downtown Portland and visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry’s Planetarium .

• Cost : $6.75 – $7.50
• Hours : 9:30 am – 5:30 pm
• Address : 1945 SE Water Ave

If you do venture to this side of the river know that there is literally a whole other side to the city and you might stay up all night exploring the many bars and restaurants in the area!

READ MORE: Use this itinerary to plan the perfect 3 days in New York City

Portland Oregon Travel Guide

Now that you know how to spend 3 days in Portland Oregon, here is a little more information about when to visit the city, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat. 

There’s not really a bad time to visit Portland, depending on what activities you plan to do when there.

The best time to visit is in the summer, when the weather is warm and it’s less likely to rain.

The city’s roses are in full bloom and outdoor activities are abundant. But the summer is also prime tourist season and you will need to book your hotel stay and tours in advance.

If you want to beat the summer crowds, plan on visiting March through May. You will still catch spring flowers blooming and it’s also a good time to whale tours on the coast.

The winter months from November through February are the rainiest and it can become quite chilly.

But if you are into winter sports, Portland is a great place for skiing and other winter activities because of its close proximity to Mt. Hood. 

Though a big city, Portland is very compact for its size and is easily walkable and is one of the most bike-friendly cities in America.

Downtown Portland and the central city area are easy to explore on foot.

There are also several bike rental companies and a bike-share program if you’d rather bike around town.

Portland also has one of the best tourist-friendly public transportation services. Your best bet after arriving at the airport is to take the light rail train into the city or to your hotel, and for less than $3 it’s very budget-friendly.

There are several bus lines that can take you anywhere in the city and the Portland Streetcar is another popular option to get around town.

I wouldn’t recommend renting a car for exploring the city as parking can be very expensive. But do consider renting a car if you plan to visit Mt. Hood or Willamette Valley during your visit. 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Where to Stay in Portland

Because most of the activities in this 3-day Portland itinerary center around the downtown area of the city, our recommendations for the best places to stay in Portland are all in this area. 

There are a variety of options to suit any budget. But to make the most of your time in the city we wanted to save you transit time while providing you the best value in accommodation. 

Here are our suggestions on where to stay in Portland. 

Located just outside Old Town in the spirited Nob Hill neighborhood, HI Portland Northwest is the best place to stay in Portland if you are on a budget.

Choose between dorm or private accommodation and enjoy the shared kitchen, drinks at an in-house cafe and WiFi throughout the hostel.

HI Portland Northwest is located in close proximity to all public transportation and you can park on the street if you arrive in your own car.

This is the perfect location to explore Old Town and downtown Portland as well as to quickly access all of the activities of Washington Park. 

The Hotel DeLuxe will give you a luxury feel at a mid-range price providing great value in your stay. With an on-site restaurant and bar, room service and their unique “Well & Fit kit” the hotel goes above and beyond to ensure you have everything you could want or need.

You can even partake in free fitness classes or borrow bicycles to get around the city.

Of course, being located in downtown Portland Oregon has its advantages too as you are right in the middle of everything we recommend during this itinerary. 

Staying at the Society Hotel puts you in the middle of everything you could want to do during your 3 days in Portland itinerary.

Located just a quarter-mile from the famous Chinese Gardens and all that Old Town has to offer, the Society Hotel provides a fitness center, in-house restaurant and bar and offers complimentary breakfast to fill you up for your day out and about.

Rooms are spacious and come with views of the mountains or garden and include standard amenities to make your stay more enjoyable. Book the king suite for a truly exceptional stay.

Best Restaurants in Portland Oregon

Now for my favorite part of the whole post – where to eat in Portland!

You can never go wrong with a delicious doughnut at any hour of the day. A staple for everyone who visits or lives in Portland, Voodoo Doughnuts has several locations and is open 24 hours a day to make sure you get your doughnut fix. 

Q Restaurant and Bar is a Portland favorite especially among those looking for a farm to table experience.

Enjoy traditional American cuisines of seafood, lamb, duck and good old fashioned steak all dressed up in delicious seasoning and preparations. 

Serving up more fresh Pacific Northwest seafood than the name suggests, Jake’s Famous Crawfish is known for flying in its seafood daily.

Enjoy steelhead, Dungeness crab, and a spread of local oysters cooked into a variety of dishes.

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3 Days in Portland OR: The Ultimate Weekend in Portland Itinerary

Portland, Oregon is known the world over as one of the sweetest, friendliest, and most charming cities in the United States–and 3 days in Portland is definitely long enough to realize that the city lives up to that hype.

Jokes abound about how every Portlander is in a band and works at a bookstore and, well, Portland does have a thriving music scene and the world’s largest bookstore.

It’s a beautiful city full of parks, donuts, and good coffee, and a long weekend in Portland will no doubt include plenty of all of those.

Three days is just the right amount of time to a variety of the best things to do in Portland ; which includes the best food, parks, music venues, museums, and bookstores.

Here is everything you need to do and know for a perfect 3 days in Portland, Oregon.

Note: this Portland blog post was written for Our Escape Clause by Portland local Will Heath of Books and Bao . Thanks for joining us, Will!

Table of Contents

• Day 1 in Portland Itinerary: The Pearl District  
• Day 2 in Portland Itinerary: Forest Park & Portland’s Japanese Garden 

Day 3 in Portland Itinerary: The Northwest District

Alternative day 3 in portland itinerary: multnomah falls + mt. hood day trip .

• Where to Stay for a Long Weekend in Portland, Oregon 

Where to Eat in Portland OR

Getting around portland.

• When to Visit Portland 

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Day 1 in Portland Itinerary: The Pearl District    

You can think of the Pearl District as central Portland, even though it isn’t actually in the middle.

This is the financial hub of the city, where all the high rises rise high and all the best shopping can be found. 

The Pearl District is where Portland begins; it’s a short walk from the Willamette River which cuts the city in half, and it’s also where many of Portland’s most famous tourist attractions and must-visit places can be found, all within walking distance.

Its prime location and the huge number of attractions make the Pearl District the best place to start your 3 days in Portland itinerary, starting with the world’s biggest bookstore.

Explore Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest bookstore.

Powell’s City of Books is an enormous building. So big, in fact, that the front desk offers a free, and beautifully decorated, map to help you navigate through the world’s largest bookstore.

Powell’s is the pride of Portland. Locals and visitors alike cherish this enormous city-sized building that sells books both new and used, in every style and flavor you could imagine.  

To really take it in, you need a good two hours to really explore and enjoy Powell’s. The shop is even famous for the fact that it provides baskets because they know you’re going to get carried away and gather more books than you can carry as you venture deeper into this labyrinth of books.  

On the ground floor, Powell’s has a lovely little café, but we do recommend you leave that till last since it’s a great space to recuperate and flick through your newly purchased books with a flat white and a view of the bustling streets outside.  

Powell’s offers new and used books, and you’ll also find sales on hardbacks that are now available in paperback. It’s very easy to find a steal here, both in the used section and in the sales. And, it being the biggest bookstore on the planet, Powell’s really does stock everything you could imagine.  

When you finally reach the top, you’ll discover that Powell’s also has a rare book room that has been decorated like the musty old study of a college professor, complete with antique wooden desks and atmospheric lamp lighting. This room holds some incredible secrets, like rare first editions and signed copies of both antiquarian and modern books.

Grab a donut at Voodoo Donuts.

Voodoo Donuts divides locals, mostly because it is so popular with tourists and locals spend their time loudly insisting that Blue Star sells far superior donuts. And while that might technically be true in terms of quality, Voodoo Donuts is such a fun experience that goes beyond just enjoying a good donut.

This world-famous donut shop is beloved amongst visitors to Portland thanks to the hilarious and charming novelty that is its range of strange donut concoctions and their delightful naming choices (some of which are certainly not appropriate if you’re bringing your kids along, so make your choice wisely).  

There is an absurdly wide selection of donuts to choose from at Voodoo Donuts, and they’re all very reasonably priced (all cheaper than the locals’ beloved Blue Star). They’re also huge, ranging from a realistic but still bloated size to something that’s far more a cake than it is a donut.  

Voodoo Donuts has some extremely friendly and accommodating staff; they know that so many visitors are first-timers and they’re happy to flex their knowledge about any and every donut on their roster. Just be warned that this place is intensely popular, and so it’s a smart idea to visit Voodoo Donuts in mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid the lunchtime rush.

Walk across the Broadway Bridge and down the riverside.  

There are an awful lot of bridges in Portland. They stitch the two halves of the city together across the Willamette River.

Broadway Bridge is a particularly iconic bridge, however, with it having the steel aesthetic of the Brooklyn Bridge and the red paintwork of the Golden Gate Bridge. It can also be easily reached on foot from the Pearl District since it begins just behind Union Station.

Getting up close to the industrial steel architecture of Broadway Bridge is akin to heading back in time to Portland’s industrial roots.

But far beyond that, once you’re up atop the bridge, you’ll find that it offers you a great view of the downtown Pearl District skyline and another of the rest of the river and neighboring bridges to the north and south. Broadway Bridge itself is an impressive part of Portland’s history, but the views that it offers are epic and worth admiring during your Portland weekend getaway.

From the Broadway Bridge, you can take a stroll up the waterfront on the Pearl District side. This is a long and tranquil walk that offers you beautiful and unique views of several different Portland bridges from the ground level.

Walking north, your right side will be river waves, massive cargo ships, and gargantuan overhead bridges. Your left side will be beautiful and fancy apartment buildings. And all the locals you’ll pass will be joggers and residents walking their dogs. It’s a perfect and peaceful afternoon stroll that encapsulates the friendly peace of Portland, as well as its rugged industrial lineage.  

Day 2 in Portland Itinerary: Forest Park & Portland’s Japanese Garden  

Start your morning by heading straight to portland’s japanese garden..

Often and proudly touted as the best Japanese garden in the USA, Portland Japanese Garden is a huge area packed full of all the details and aesthetics that you’ll find in the very best traditional gardens in Japan . That includes wooden bridges over gentle streams, a tea house when you can enjoy fresh matcha tea, and a Japanese rock garden of raked stones and arrange rock pillars.

It’s easy to spend at least two hours exploring and relaxing at the Portland Japanese Garden. It’s an open and dynamic space that easily takes the top spot on the list of most beautiful places in Portland, especially on a clear blue day.

This is because clear blue skies allow the streams and waterfall to shimmer and offers an unparalleled view of Mt Hood in the distance. On a clear day, standing in the Portland Japanese Garden, the view of Mt Hood looks hardly any different to the coveted views you can get of Mt Fuji on a summer’s day in Tokyo.

… and then stop by the Rose Garden. 

Beside the Portland Japanese Garden is a rose garden that can only be enjoyed in the summer months. While the Japanese Garden is open year-round, visiting in the summer is certainly the best choice if you also want to enjoy the bonus rose garden next door.

Beyond simply exploring the garden and enjoying some green tea at the teahouse, the Portland Japanese Garden also hosts frequent events that change week to week. These events range from musical performances that use traditional Japanese instruments, such as the koto harp, to traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and even lectures and mindfulness tours of the garden.  

Visit Pittock Mansion, Portland’s most important historic building.

Pittock Mansion can be found just north of the Portland Japanese Garden and is a perfect stopgap on your way to Forest Park and the Witch’s Castle. The Pittocks, after which the mansion was named, were an influential Portland family who were largely responsible for turning the once small pioneer town into a thriving industrial port.

Their mansion was almost demolished back in the sixties but saved by the community. To this day it exists as a gorgeous piece of historical architecture in the form of a museum.

This gorgeous museum is Portland’s answer to Downton Abbey. Not only is it a real, tangible part of Portland’s history, but it’s also a simply gorgeous building to explore.

An enormous drawing room complete with a library, fireplace, chandeliers, and stunning furniture. A music room complete with harp, grand piano, and delightful details like sconces and tall windows looking out onto the grounds. A cool detail of Pittock Mansion is how the furniture and furnishings are all originals that were crafted by talented local craftsmen over a hundred years ago.  

Explore the Witch’s Castle.

This is one of the most strange and unique things to do in Portland on this itinerary. The Witch’s Castle has nothing to do with witches at all, and neither is it a castle. And yet, it is undeniably a very unique and out-of-place structure.

The Witch’s Castle is a stone ruin that very much resembles a medieval European house. What’s so cool about this structure is not only its creepy, ghostly, ruinous stone structure but also the legend that surrounds it.

Where the Witch’s Castle now stands, a 19th-century man bought the land from another gentleman and then proceeded to elope with that gentleman’s daughter. The father was furious, and when the couple returned, the father shot the man dead in cold blood, and so the rumors of hauntings in the area began.

The Witch’s Castle is just one part of the enormous Forest Park, which takes up so much of west Portland’s landscape. You can start with the Witch’s Castle and then head north and hike through the varied landscape of forest park. Follow the Wildwood Trail, which will take you from the Witch’s Castle across several kilometers of rugged green wilderness.

Spend the afternoon exploring Portland’s street food scene.

After a morning and afternoon of visiting gardens and hiking across the natural landscape of Portland, you will have worked up one massive appetite. And, since Portland is famous for its wealth of international cuisine, especially in its food carts and street food options, there is no better option than to take a fabulous food tour of these legendary street food carts. These chefs are all amazing, and with this popular tour , you get to enjoy the best of them.

Book your street food tour in Portland today!

The Northwest District is a beautiful and semi-residential area of Portland and is home to many of the most picturesque and beautiful homes in the city. It’s situated between the downtown Pearl District and the wilderness area that contains Forest Park and the Portland Japanese Garden. It’s here that you can find some of the most unusual and exciting hidden spots in Portland.

Visit the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium and Museum.

This is easily Portland’s most unusual museum. The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium is an incredibly fun and unique Portland experience. Entry costs just $5 each, and when you first enter, you’ll be greeted by a ten-foot-tall sasquatch replica that you can hug and take photos with. From there, it only gets stranger.

The Peculiarium is a small museum that guides you from one strange experience to another. The whole place is filled with cheesy but fun supernatural ad science fiction gimmicks to experience and play with. There’s a doll’s house you can examine, with each room displaying a different horror element, like a bedroom with a ghost and a bathroom with a squid monster dragging a woman down the toilet.

At the Peculiarium, you can step into a room behind a curtain which feels like something out of The Twilight Zone; it shows you the inside of a human brain and encourages you to play along with a scripted mad science experiment. Then there’s a coffin you can get into which simulates being buried alive (don’t worry, it’s not actually scary at all).

This is a cheesy 50s sci-fi museum full of heart and silliness that embraces the weird and wonderful supernatural conspiracies of the world, from government experiments gone wrong to alien autopsies and, of course, Oregon’s own Sasquatch. There’s a lot of fun here to be had for just $5.

Wander down 23rd Avenue.  

This north-south road will take you past some fantastic pitstops where you can grab a coffee and a snack on your way to another museum and a vintage cinema. Your first stop will be Blue Star, the donut shop which every Portlander will insist is far better than Voodoo Donuts. So, now is your time to finally try their donuts and decide for yourself which you prefer.  

Your second pitstop is at Barista, one in a local chain of Portland coffee shops. Portland is second only to Seattle for its vibrant coffee scene, and the Barista chain of coffee shops represent the finest and fanciest coffee in Portland. Just down from Blue Star, you’ll find a Barista where you can either drink in or take a coffee out with you.  

Enjoy an old movie at Cinema 21.

Take a left off 23 rd Avenue onto NW Irving St. Here, you’ll find every Portlander’s favorite movie theatre. Cinema 21 is a beautiful little independent and vintage movie theatre that plays classic American cinema from decades past. A few hours spent at this cinema is a very fun time.

  Cinema 21 sells all kinds of snacks and beverages, including full pizzas and even local beers.

The Escape New York Pizza is delicious; pair this with a beer and a classic film in a comfy seat at a vintage cinema, and there’s no experience like it in all of Portland.

If you’d rather get out of the city for the last day of your long weekend in Portland, why not take a day trip to Mt. Hood? From the Japanese Garden you will have spied this incredible snow-capped mountain, and now you can easily get there yourself.

This fantastic tour will take you there and back, with plenty of interesting stops like Multnomah Falls and views of the Columbia River Gorge, which are some of the best places to visit in Oregon .

If you’d rather not join a tour, you can also drive yourself there if you have a car of your own (more on driving in Portland below).

Either way, the greenery, waterfalls, and views you get once you’re up there are unparalleled and are an amazing way to close out your 3 day Portland itinerary.

Book your day trip to Mt. Hood & Multnomah Falls today!

Where to Stay for a Long Weekend in Portland, Oregon  

As we’ve already mentioned, Portland is split in half by the river.

East Portland is a very wide open, quiet, and residential area. There are some lovely restaurants and cafes to visit, but most of the best tourist stuff that you’ll want to see and explore is all in west Portland’s Pearl and Northwest Districts. Therefore, these are the districts you’ll want to stay in.

The Pearl District is where most of Portland’s coolest hotels can be found. And the Northwest District is a more upscale, upmarket neighborhood of beautiful homes. You can find some great places to stay in both areas, and here are your three best options for budget, mid-range, and luxury hotel stays.  

The only thing to know about the Pearl District before booking your hotel is that it has a severe homeless problem. Most of the city’s rough sleepers congregate in the Chinatown area of the Pearl District but, regardless, homelessness has become an increasing issue in Portland that is quite upsetting to see.  

The Society Hotel — This is a very Portland hotel. It has a rustic hipster aesthetic of exposed brick and vintage aesthetic, but the service is top-notch, and the restaurant serves a local cuisine that’s as satisfying as it is filling.

Within walking distance from this hotel are some of the best attractions and sights in the city, including the picturesque Northwest District and all the unique features of the Pearl District, including the river and bridges.

Check rates & book your stay at The Society Hotel!

Park Lane Suites & Inn — Found in the upmarket and residential Northwest District, while still being within walking distance of the exciting Pearl District as well as the gorgeous Japanese Garden and rose gardens, this hotel is in the perfect location.

At a mid-range price, you get some beautiful décor and all the best amenities, including a large TV and wood furniture that soothes and makes you feel right at home during your long weekend in Portland.

Check rates & book your stay at Park Lane Suites & Inn!

Hampton Inn & Suites (Pearl District) — This gorgeous modern hotel is right at the heart of the action.

Powell’s City of Books and Voodoo Donuts are both just around the corner, as is all the best shopping in the city.

The hotel itself features an indoor pool, a rooftop terrace, and spacious sweets that feel more like a private apartment than a hotel room, making it the perfect choice for luxury travelers exploring Portland in 3 days.

Check rates & book your stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites!

Portland has a wonderful selection of great world foods, and many of them are east of the river but they are so worth the extra distance you may be able to justify the travel to get there–especially these few.  

This is an authentic Indonesian restaurant that serves far more than chicken satay. The food is fresh and varied. From grilled fish to a thick and sweet beef curry, as well as pork dumplings to die for.

Bollywood Theater  

This is an Indian restaurant owned by local Portlanders who have studied the cuisine until they became experts in Indian dishes, and it certainly shows. The paneer dishes, in particular, are exquisite, and they cook rice to perfection, better than you ever thought rice could be prepared  

The Carts on Foster  

This is an awesome selection of food carts in Southeast Portland. There are a total of seventeen, some of which are beer gardens and even hair salons.

But most are food carts that serve up delicacies from around the world, from Mexican to Scandinavian cuisine. If you want to try out Portland’s legendary food cart scene during your 3 days in Portland, this is the place to do so.

Portland has a fantastic public transport system. It’s not as good as that of New York City, but it is far better than cities like Los Angeles.

You can certainly get away with not having a car in Portland, especially if you are situated on the west side of the river, where the downtown district and all the city’s most fun places can be found. This part of town is easily walkable, so you don’t even need to rely on public transport.

If you are using public transport, however, the buses and trams work perfectly and are cheap to use.

Portland has a special transit app that you can download to your phone for free called the Hop Fastpass. You can top this up anytime and use it to get on any bus or trap with the tap of your phone; no cash requires. The buses go everywhere, and you can wait at any bus stop for no more than 15 minutes before a bus will turn up.  

Having a car does make things a little easier, especially if you’re planning on taking a day trip out of the city to visit one of Portland’s waterfalls or hikes. In fact, if you are heading to Mt. Hood and don’t want to book a tour, having a car is a must. But a car can also be more hassle than it’s worth for a long weekend in Portland, especially downtown.

East of the river, parking on every street is free and easy, but west of the river there are meters on every street, and finding a place to park can be stressful. Relying on public transport is easier and takes away a lot of parking stress.

When to Visit Portland  

Portland is one of the best places in Oregon and has something to offer regardless of the season. In winter, the snow will fall and in fall the foliage is breathtaking. However, the spring and summer months (anywhere between March and August) are still the best time to spend 3 days in Portland.

In the spring, Portland erupts with cherry blossoms that rival Tokyo’s hanami season. The cherry blossoms are on every street and transform Portland into a wonderland of vibrant pinks and whites. Combining this spectacle with a visit to Portland Japanese Garden makes spring in Portland better than spring in any other US city.

In the summer, the roses are in bloom, and a visit to the rose garden that’s found beside the Portland Japanese Garden is captivating.

This is also the time when the parks are full, the streets are bustling, and you can enjoy the fun of eating and enjoying coffee outside.

Strolls across the bridges and along the riverside, as well as hikes across Forest Park, are best enjoyed during the summer months.

6 thoughts on “3 Days in Portland OR: The Ultimate Weekend in Portland Itinerary”

There also is Portland Saturday Market under the Burnside bridge. It’s in its 46th yr. Every weekend one can visit and see younic handmade items from several hundred venders.

I love Portland. One of the best kept secrets in America. I know you only had 3 days but only exploring the Westside was a mistake. That is where all the boring rich people live. 🙂 The Eastside is the heart of Portland culture. Its where Portlandia was born and continues to live. I recommend your readers spend at least one day visiting N Mississippi and Williams streets, the Alberta Arts District, NE Broadway, SE Hawthorn, Belmont and Division. The non-tourist spots where locals hang. Then you’ll know the real Portland.

Hi Sam! To each their own, but I do want to clarify that this post was not written based on the experience of spending 3 days in Portland, but was put together by a local Portland writer. 🙂

I agree, Sam. It’s a good itinerary, but no mention of the Eastside neighborhoods was disappointing.

Hi There! My boyfriend and I are planning on a trip to Portland in September. Do you have any recommendations on where to stay? Thanks!

Hi Arielle!

If you scroll back up, we have a section on recommended hotels in this blog post. 🙂

Hope you guys have a great time in Portland!

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3 Days in Portland, Oregon: The Perfect Portland Weekend Itinerary

last Updated: September 28, 2022 oregon portland

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

So you’re headed to the Pacific Northwest and have 3 days in Portland?! Great choice! I’ve got the perfect 3 day Portland itinerary for you – including the best food, views, and some great nature spots outside the city!  

Portland, Oregon is best known for its delectable donuts, snobby coffee culture, orgasmic food, and, of course, for being weird. It is their slogan after all! 3 days in Portland will give you enough time to see all the city highlights, as well as get you outta town for some much needed nature breaks!

I’ve visited more than half the states in the US , but before last year, I had never made it to Oregon! Living in NYC on the East Coast for most of my life, Oregon and the PNW in general hardly crossed my mind. But once I moved to sunny California , I became instantly enamoured with those states just to the north of me. I quickly visited Seattle and Mt. Rainier , but it took me almost 4 years to make it to Oregon! Shame on me!

So when my old coworker (and friend) invited me to spend 3 days in Portland at her place, I just couldn’t say no. We were LONG overdue for a proper catch up anyways. And plus, I could already taste the donuts and coffee I’ve heard so much about. Spoiler alert – they did not disappoint.

If you’re thinking about spending a long weekend in Portland, I highly encourage it. I’m already figuring out the next time I can get myself back to PDX.

Portland Itinerary Logistics

How to get around.

If you’ll just be staying around Portland proper, then you can get away with public transportation (buses, MAX light rail, streetcars, and commuter rail) and the occasional Uber or Lyft. The city also has a few bike share programs (including Biketown which has 100 stations across the city) if pedaling around town is more your thing.  

However, if you’ll be following my itinerary and making a few (highly) recommended day trips, you’ll want to rent a car for your three days in Portland. Note that most parking within the city is metered, although we never paid more than a few bucks per day.

Where to Stay in Portland

If you want to explore the more touristy parts of the city (where most of the items on this Portland itinerary are located, minus the day trips of course), you’ll want to stay on the West side of the Willamette River, which divides the city in half. Downtown, the Pearl District, and Nob Hill are your best bets over on the west side.

Downtown : Stay here if you don’t have a car, it’s your first time visiting Portland, and/or want to do a ton of (tax-free) shopping. Plus, there’s tons of food carts and farmers markets here. // Recommended hotels: Kimpton Hotel Monaco (enchanted forest vibes), Sentinel Hotel (5 star property with easy access to the street car), Kimpton Riverplace Hotel (modern riverside), and The Paramount Hotel (super stylish and well-priced).

Pearl District : A super easy walk to downtown, and absolutely lovely! It’s rather upscale and trendy, with tons of galleries and boutiques. Plus, the Pearl District is home to Powell’s City of Books – what can be better? // Recommended hotels: Mark Spencer Hotel (classy Portland), McMenamins Crystal Hotel (quirky Portland), and Residence Inn by Marriott (kitchenettes, anyone?!)

Nob Hill : Sometimes referred to as the Alphabet District, Nob Hill has a more small-town feel to it with lots of charming victorian architecture, although is still in a central location. 

When to Visit Portland:

Yes, it’s the PNW, and yes, it can be rainy many months of the year. Thankfully, despite all the rain, the air typically doesn’t get cold enough for snow, so you most likely won’t need to bust out your winter gear.

With that being said, if you’re hoping for sunny days (like most), come during July and August, which is undoubtedly the city’s busiest time of year. Because of this, a mid-week visit would highly be to your advantage, as restaurants get packed and traffic can be somewhat unbearable depending on where you’re going.

For the sake of transparency, I visited in mid-June from a Tuesday night to early Saturday (for a total of 3 full days in Portland), and we got lucky with both minimal wait time for food and traffic. The days are long in summer (with the sun setting around 9pm), giving you ample daylight for day trips and Portland adventures.

I highly advise that you plan your days around the weather. I visited in mid-June, and during my 3 days in Portland, I experienced 90+F temps, as well as a tad bit of rain, some chilly mornings, and warm summer nights. The weather here is tempermental to say the least (and changes throughout the day), so be aware when planning your activities for the day. It’s best to come prepared with an umbrella and cute rain jacket any time of year, juuuuuust in case – this is the PNW afterall!

A note on food & eating and drinking in general

One of the big draws of the city is all it’s eating (and drinking – the beer and coffee kind), so you’ll be finding a lot of that on this 3-day Portland itinerary (#noshame). Vegans will have no problem finding food here as there are tons of vegan options on almost every menu in the city. PSA: Portland is not the place to visit if you’re on a strict diet – heck, donuts, ice cream, and coffee concoctions are big around here!

Just know you most definitely won’t be able to get to allllll the Portland foodie hot spots in one trip – I already have a long list for next time! The city is constantly adding new restaurants to it’s (already long) line-up, so you can be sure you’ll eat well on any 3 day trip to Portland! Just whatever you do, get a few Blue Star donuts – they’re worth the calories (promise).

And up next, what you’ve been waiting for, my exact 3 days in Portland itinerary:

3 Day Portland Itinerary

Day 1: cannon beach + first stops in portland.

For the beginning of your 3 days in Portland, head to the beach! The coast is absolutely beautiful and as soon as you get there, you’ll be glad you included it on your Portland itinerary!

Check out Lionheart Coffee Company , located a few minutes outta town, for some coffee to go before heading to the beach. Get the cold brew – it’s infused with cocoa nibs and ridiculously delicious.

Cannon Beach

Start your Oregon adventures by making your way to Cannon Beach, about an hour and a half drive east from the city of Portland. Heading to the Coast provided much needed relief from the heat, as it was in the 90s when I visited! Here at Cannon Beach, you’ll find the famous and ever-so-popular Haystack Rock (it’s a sight to be seen).

No matter where you stand, you’ll see it (I promise), as it towers 235 feet over the beach. If you can, plan your visit during low tide so you’re able to walk right up to Haystack Rock to search for sea creatures (crabs, sea anemone, mussels, and snails). Check here to see when the tide is at its lowest. Check out Pelican Brewing Company should you get hungry (the fish tacos were bomb), then make your way back to the city to continue your Portland itinerary.

Don’t have a rental car? No problem. You’ll find a few companies offering tours to Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, along with additional scenic spots on the coast including Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, Neahkahnie Point, and Manzanita (on my list for next time). Check it out and sign up here!  Just note that these tours are usually more of a full day, so you’ll need to add the following activities elsewhere on your Portland itinerary.

Back in Portland:

Depending on how long you spend at the beach and your hunger level, I URGE you to head on over to Pok Pok for at least a snack of vietnamese fish sauce wings. One bite and you’ll understand why. Note that this place gets insanely crowded for dinner most nights, which is why I recommend going for (a late) lunch instead.

Still hungry? You’ll find Salt and Straw across the street for some of Portland’s best ice cream. Try the salted caramel and/or the gooey brownie. Can’t decide? I get it, I’ve been there. Order the ice cream flight (with 4 flavors) – you won’t be disappointed.

Next, check the following off your Portland itinerary:

• Pittock Mansion : Looking for spectacular views of the entire city? You’ll find those here at Pittock Mansion. Note that while the view is free to admire, a ticket is required to tour the mansion grounds.

• International Rose Test Garden (located within Washington Park): What’s better than rows and rows of sweet-smelling roses? The garden boasts over 10,000 of the pretty things, in every color combination imaginable (over 650 varieties)! Wander around for a half hour or so, and be sure to actually stop and smell the roses. :p Make sure you visit when the roses are in bloom (April through October, although June is the peak season). FYI – Entrance to the garden is free, but you’ll need to pay for parking.

• Blue Star Donuts: I know, I know, you may have already had some ice cream, but you REALLY can’t leave Portland without at least tryyyying a blue star donut or two (or three). We split the chocolate almond ganache, real maple bacon, and orange oil olive. Psst: you can always buy a few donuts at the airport before heading home if you didn’t get a chance to visit in the city (I did both, shhh).

Recommended Dinner options: Portland has a WIDE array of restaurant choices, and to say I had no bad meals is an understatement (they all thoroughly exceeded my expectations). Check out either Yama Sushi & Izakaya for some Japanese food or Abyssinian Kitchen for some tasty Ethiopian food – both are a few feet away from Fifty Licks should you be craving more ice cream (no judgements – you’re on vacation!)

Day 2: Multnomah Falls – Columbia River Gorge – Rowena Crest – Mt. Hood

Next up on this three day Portland itinerary: a rather long day trip that will take you to a bunch of northwest Oregon’s best sites! Be sure to start early as the Multnomah area gets jam packed with tourists.

First up, Multnomah Falls!

Being the tallest waterfall in all of Oregon state, this stop really should be any Portland itinerary, no matter how long or short. Looking up at the 600+ foot tall roaring cascade of icy water is awe-inspiring to say the least!

Because of the horrific fire in 2017, Multnomah Falls can only be seen from the lower viewing platform, and it’s unfortunately not possible to hike to the upper platform (bridge) at this time. Still worth visiting? I think so. Check for other trail closures before planning more waterfall hikes into your Portland itinerary as most are closed on the Oregon side (I’ve heard Horsetail Falls and Wahkeena Falls are spectacular – but both were closed during my June 2018 visit).

Like I said before, Multnomah Falls get absolutely crazy-busy, so it’s best to come as early as you possibly can! It’s actually the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest (whoa), so be prepared to share the views with 34534 of your closest Portland-loving friends if you come after 10am. 🙂

Rowena Crest

It’s about 25 minutes out of the way, but most definitely worth it for that insta picture (I’m sure you’ve seen it somewhere – haha)! So what is it about this place that makes it rather popular?! Yes, it’s technically just a bend in the road but the surrounding scenery makes it a worthwhile stop.

This iconic horseshoe curve is actually one of the most photographed roads in all of Oregon! It does get pretty windy up here, so if you’re planning on taking that insta-photo, please be extra careful! Note that you’ll need to hoist yourself up and over the railing if you want more than just shoes in your shot (I was too much of a chicken to do so).

Solstice Wood Fire Cafe : By this time you’re probably hungry/hangry, and no better place to calm those pains than at Solstice for some wood-fired pizza. There’s a heated patio if you prefer to sit outside. Walk along the Hood River Waterfront for some great views of the area as well!

Basik Acai Cafe : Not necessarily an Oregon thing to do, but just putting it out there that Hood River has a fantastic place to get acai bowls (there’s even a location in SF and Hawaii). I’m a huge acai lover, so naturally, had to stop here to stuff down an acai bowl (yes, right after pizza, I know, I know).

Hood River Lavender Farm

A must-stop for anyone who’s even a little bit lavender obsessed. Not only can you wander around the whole place smelling the sweet smells, but for $5, you can pick your own lavender to tie up and bring home! The place was smaller than I had expected, but there’s tons and tons of lavender bushes so it doesn’t even matter. Be extra careful when picking, as there’s lots of bees!

Be sure to look inside the gift shop for lavender jams/jellies, soaps, etc. If you come on a clear day you can even see Mt. Hood in the distance! FYI: Lavender picking season is from April/May to November, with peak bloom being July-August.

Trillium Lake

What’s better than a mountain reflection in a jazzy blue lake? Not much! On a clear day, you’ll find Mt. Hood perfectly reflected in the water. Worth the short photo stop for sure! You can also walk around the lake for additional views as well, but we wanted to make it back by dinner so skipped the almost-2-mile loop trail. I want to visit during sunrise or sunset next time!

Timberline Lodge

End this long day at Timberline, a mountain lodge right at the base of Mt. Hood, where you can watch the skiers summer ski and grab a bite to eat (if you’re so inclined). You of course can spend the night here if you’re planning on actually using the mountain for skiing or snowboarding (be sure to make reservations in advance), but we were just observers for the day.

Again, if car rentals ain’t your thing or you just want someone else to do the driving, check out the following half and full day tours to Multnomah Falls and Mt. Hood, with many of the stops I recommended above.

• Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Half Day Tour
• Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Half Day Tour
• Full Day Wine and Waterfalls Tour
• Mt. Hood: Full Day Loop Tour from Portland

Recommended dinner option: Katchka (russian) // For Dessert: Petunia’s Pies & Pastries (all 100% vegan!)

Day 3: More Waterfalls + More Portland

Get ready for another early day, because you’ll be admiring more waterfalls and then ticking more things off your Portland itinerary! To give you an idea of timing, I think we made it to breakfast around 8:30ish or so.

Start with an early breakfast at Pine State Biscuits

I went for the Reggie Deluxe sans gravy, and lemme just tell you – the fried chicken did not disappoint, nor did the biscuit. Highly recommend this place. Vegetarians will appreciate the fact that mushroom gravy is available. The line can get ridiculously long (for good reason, the biscuits are outta this world), so MAKE SURE to get here early, especially if you want ample time for the rest of the day’s activities. 🙂

Short hike at Silver Falls State Park

If the waterfall at Multnomah wasn’t enough for you, or you’re just a waterfall fanatic like myself, make the hour and a half drive to Silver Falls State Park. (Psst – I actually found the waterfall at Silver Falls State Park even more spectacular). There are numerous trails available, with the easiest of them leading to the most impressive waterfall in the park – South Falls. You can even go behind some of them! Definitely reminded me of the some of the waterfalls I saw in Iceland!

If you’re looking for a longer hike, trek the entire 9 miles and you’ll be rewarded with 10 waterfalls (yes, 10!). Where else can you see 10 waterfalls on one hike?! We hiked about 3 miles or so and saw two waterfalls.

People actually call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system – you’ll quickly understand why after your first visit! I mean, who doesn’t appreciate a leisurely walk the rainforest (Oregon’s only one actually!)

Food Cart Lunch

Back to the city it is, for more food of course! Time to check out one of Portland’s food cart hot spots, this one with Fried Egg, I’m in Love and Tov Coffee (two of my new found favorites). Although there are waaaaay larger food truck areas, I really wanted to try out Fried Egg, I’m in Love, and yes, partially because I am a true egg lover.

Powell’s City of Books

Book lovers, rejoice! You can easily spend HOURS exploring Powell’s flagship store – you’ll even need a map (which they happily supply). Be warned: this place is HUGE huge (like, multiple floors with rooms opening into rooms opening into rooms, etc etc). It actually takes up an entire city block and then some. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, you’re just not looking hard enough – they have EVERYTHING imaginable and then some (new, used, rare, and even out-of-print books).

Ace Hotel Portland

A block away from Powell’s you’ll find the Ace Hotel, a super aesthetic and super hipster hotel located within the heart of downtown. Not only is it super photogenic, but the hotel is famous for its restored vintage photobooth in the lobby, which invites visitors to use (for $5). Next time for me!

This is also a good time to try some Stumptown Coffee , as there’s a location within the Ace.

Voodoo Donut

Voodoo is known for their super unconventional donuts, eclectic decor (one look inside and you’ll see what I mean), and their pretty pink boxes. A few of their specialties include: cock and balls doughnut with cream filled “balls” (my friend had this one), bacon maple bar (with actual strips of meat), and the old dirty bastard (looks better than it sounds).

Okay, so everyone says Blue Star is better, but I actually really enjoyed my donut at Voodoo (the Voodoo doll with raspberry jelly)! Or maybe I just like all donuts?

Go to the original location at 22 SW 3rd Avenue, just south of the Burnside Bridge, if you want to see the Keep Portland Weird sign below.  Keep in mind it’s CASH ONLY, which is probably a good thing so you don’t overly over-do it.

Keep Portland Weird Sign

Right across from Voodoo Donuts you’ll find this quick photo spot. Don’t miss this iconic mural! The sign itself is just a wall in a parking lot, but just go, be weird, and take your picture. 🙂

The actual address is 350 W Burnside St in case you can’t find it (it’s right behind Dante’s).

Tillikum Crossing

Have more time and looking for a scenic leisurely walk over the river? Head to Tillikum Crossing, also known as the “bridge of the people”, a .35 mile pedestrian, bike, and light rail bridge with unparalleled views of the Willamette River. Smart, right? Why don’t more cities have this (bridges that ban cars that is)?

You can easily do this walk back and forth in under an hour. I reckon it’d be even more dramatic and scenic at night with all the city lights shining down on the river! Be sure to look out for the submarine near OSMI!

EXTRAS: Have an extra day or so?! Something on the above Portland itinerary not really you’re thang? I’ve got a few more ideas up my sleeve for you, don’t you worry my friend.

• Beacon Rock
• Lan Su Chinese Gardens
• Japanese Gardens
• Portland Aerial tram
• Mill Ends Park: the world’s smallest park

Are you visiting Oregon soon?! Which things on this Portland itinerary will you be checking off your Portland bucket list? Do you think 3 days in Portland will be enough to eat alllll food and see allll the waterfalls?

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April 1, 2022 at 10:47 pm

This could NEVER be accomplished in 3 days . Misleading- not about Portland, but about day trips from the city.

April 4, 2022 at 5:20 pm

Hi Cindy, this is actually exactly how I spent my time there, so it’s very much possible! We definitely didn’t have tons of time in each spot and I’d love to revisit! What else in the city would you recommend?

July 28, 2022 at 7:11 pm

Exactly what I wanted. Trillium Lake looks amazing! Will add it to my itinerary.

Still debating on going out of the way to Silver Falls State Park, though..

August 9, 2022 at 4:48 pm

I loved it! You can always do a small section of the park if you don’t have a lot of time. I thought the waterfalls were really impressive, especially the one you can walk behind!

August 9, 2022 at 6:28 pm

3 Days in Portland, Oregon: The Perfect Weekend Portland Itinerary

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in Portland, Oregon, this itinerary is perfect for you! Highlights include visits to the Oregon Zoo, the Portland

March 8, 2023 at 3:54 pm

We are planning a 3 or 4 day trip to fly into Portland in July 2023. We need an itentenary to include as much sightseeing as possible. We would certainly like to do the wine country water falls and Mt Hood if possible. We don’t mind to rent a car. Can you please help us plan this trip. This is my 50th state to tour and I am excited to see what Oregon offers.

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Home » North America » Portland

PORTLAND Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Be sure to check out our Portland travel guide to make sure you’ve got your hands on the best tips for traveling to Portland. We’ll guide you through every step of the way with this incredible Portland itinerary! Are you ready for the adventure to begin?

Portland is the largest city in the US, filled with a multitude of different cultures and colorful interactions. In the 1830s, a large number of people migrated to the Portland area to find their fortune! What once was a small village, eventually flourished into one of the biggest cities in the US!

During the 1940s, Portland became infamous as a hub of criminal activity. These were mainly illegal nightclubs, underground gambling dens, and other seedy activities. In the 1960s, Portland was exposed to the hippie community, which was the beginning of an even more diverse crowd for Portland!

So, why should you make Portland your next port of call? Well, its rich cultural history makes it the perfect place to spread your wings! As well as the wide range of activities you can indulge in while you’re there.

Hiking around the outskirts of town and then enjoying a delicious lunch at an alternative bistro is the ultimate Portland experience. Not thrilling enough for you? How about spending the day skiing on the icy mountain slopes? Let’s get started!

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Best Time To Visit Portland

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If you’ve been wondering when to visit Portland, you’ve come to the right place. While there’s no wrong time to visit Portland, there’s definitely a season for everyone’s preferences. Portland summer runs from June to August and is a great time to visit as all the flowers are in full bloom. This being said, if you don’t like crowds, it’s best to stay well away from Portland during this time.

Spring in Portland runs from March to May, during this time the temperatures begin to rise, however you can still expect scattered rain showers throughout your trip. Spring is a great time to visit if you’d like to enjoy some warm weather and stay away from the crowds!

From September to November, Portland experiences Autumn. The temperatures start to drop and so does the price of accommodation. If you’re on a budgeted trip, this is a great time to visit this beautiful city.

Winter in Portland runs from December to February and is characterized by loads of rain! The temperatures are very low, but you’ll be happy to know that they rarely drop below freezing. The mountain peaks are covered in snow, making it a great time for a ski trip!

Pick your preferred weather, and keep reading to find out where to stay in Portland.

In order to round off your Portland itinerary, you’re going to need to plan where to stay in Portland during your trip. If you’re planning a short vacation, we recommend staying in a central location that allows for quick transportation to all of the main Portland attractions.

Downtown is a great place for first-time visitors to Portland! It’s overflowing with an indescribable vibe that will leave you wanting more. This area is famous for its street markets, its historically significant museums and galleries, as well as its fascinating street art. Everything about this area is Instagrammable in the best way possible!

If you’re looking for an area a little off the beaten tourist path, you might want to try a place that has become very fashionable with the locals. Nob Hill is an upscale suburb filled with all of life’s little luxuries! Tree-lined streets and Victorian-style houses are what this area is known for. If you decide to stay in Nob Hill during your time in Portland, you can expect to be visiting many restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and sophisticated bistros.

Now that you’ve got an idea of what type of neighborhood you’d like to stay in during your Portland trip, you can decide exactly which hostel or hotel would suit your needs best. Here are a few of our favorites!

Best Hostel in Portland – HI Portland

HI Portland is centrally located in the Nob Hill district which makes for easy access to many of the main Portland attractions. Located in a Victorian-style building, this very simple yet efficient hostel allows for a sense of community with its open communal areas. If you’re looking to meet up with like-minded travelers, opting to stay in this hostel is a great choice!

If you’ve got your heart set on staying in a hostel, take a look at our top hostels in Portland!

Best Airbnb in Portland – Downtown Home on the River!

If there’s one thing you should do when you visit Portland, it’s staying in a home overlooking the Willamette River. This room has an iconic view of the bridge in the background that you can have the pleasure of waking up in the morning. Often its quite cold in Portland, which is the best time to take a dip in the hot tub this place has access to all year round, with a fire pit and picnic table to enjoy on the deck as well! Did we mention blackout curtains? YEP! Get all the beauty sleep need because there won’t be any sunshine peaking through those windows to disturb you.

Best Budget Hotel in Portland – Ramada by Wyndham

The Ramada by Wyndham is conveniently located a mere mile from Portland Airport and offers a twenty-four-hour airport shuttle service to make travel a little easier for its guests! Casual on-site dining and a fully stocked bar are available for those who’d like to save a pretty penny on dining expenses.

Best Luxury Hotel in Portland – Hotel Rose

The Hotel Rose is located in the Downtown area, close to all the action, and provides a luxury stay for their guests. Each room is kitted out with its own kitchenette and bathroom, allowing for more privacy. The hotel has a beautiful restaurant and cafe area that means guests won’t have to travel far to get a great meal!

If you’re traveling to Portland, it’s important to figure out just how you plan to get around during your stay, because of the heavy traffic in this city, we recommend skipping the car rental to make life a lot easier (and cheaper) for yourself!

Tickets for buses, light rails, and streetcars will only cost you $5 USD for a whole day, making it a very affordable way to get around. The same ticket will work for the entire TriMet System. You can hop from light rail to bus, to streetcar the whole day without having to worry about buying another ticket. As you know, convenience is key to having a great holiday in Portland.

Many Portland locals use Uber to get around. It is very convenient, but it can get a little pricey if you’re on a budget. However, it’s still cheaper than using a traditional taxi.

Portland is a very bike-friendly town, in fact, it’s the main form of transport that the local use for short distances. There are rental stations all over the city making it extremely easy to locate a bike whenever you need one.

Now that you know how to get around Portland, let’s take a look at what activities you should be adding to your Portland itinerary.

Washington Park | Japanese Garden | Oregon Zoo | Pittock Mansion | Pioneer Courthouse Square | Oregon Historical Society Museum

On the first day of your Portland itinerary, you can expect to spend plenty of time in nature, as well as getting to know the locals a little better in their amazing public spaces. You’ll learn a lot about the city and its rich cultural history!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Stroll Through Washington Park

• Why it’s awesome: Washington Park is a public urban park and there are over 15 miles worth of walking/cycling trails in Washington Park, as well as many attractions.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Elephants Delicatessen is just a short drive from Washington Park and serves incredible gourmet foods. It also opens early in the morning which is helpful for those wanting to get an early start. They serve everything from burgers, deli meat and fish to cupcakes and pastries.

Washington Park expands over an impressive 410 acres of land and is home to many of Portland’s wildlife species. You’ll be sure to see a fair amount of thriving birdlife during your morning walk on this Portland itinerary.

With so many paths to choose from, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll manage to see the whole park in one morning, but no matter which path you take, you really can’t go wrong. The trees and flowers are always showing off, and you’ll feel at peace in your luscious green surrounds.

There are many Portland attractions in the park, a children’s museum, an arboretum and Japanese Gardens, some of which you’ll be exploring after your walk. If you’re in the mood for some stiff competition, feel free to make use of the free tennis courts in Washington Park.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Visit the Japanese Garden

• Why it’s awesome: The Japanese Gardens in Washington Park are absolutely beautiful, and they present many gorgeous photo opportunities.
• Cost: USD $19
• Food nearby: Bamboo Sushi serves certified sustainably sourced seafood, and it couldn’t be more delicious. After a morning learning about Japanese culture and enjoying the zen Japanese garden, sushi is the perfect way to end it off. However, if you’re not a sushi fan, there’s still plenty of dishes for you to enjoy. Everything from steak to sunny side eggs, there’s sure to be something for you!

The beautiful Japanese Gardens create an amazingly zen space within Washington Park. Once you’ve strolled through the well-kept miniature gardens, and moss-covered trees, be sure to visit the Japanese Cultural Village that sits on top of the hill in the Japanese Garden!

At the Japanese Cultural Village, you can immerse yourself in Japanese Culture and art, while learning about the many facets of their way of life! You can listen to the enchanting melodies being played on a harp and flute. You’ll also get the chance to learn about the art of kimono making and partake in a tea ceremony! All of which play an integral part in Japanese culture!

This activity will put you in the right mindset for the rest of your day, and leave you feeling at peace with the world around you!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Enjoy the Company of Incredible Creatures at Oregon Zoo

• Why it’s awesome: Oregon Zoo is one of the most famous of all the Portland attractions.
• Cost: USD $18
• Food nearby: Verde Cocina at Sylvan Highlands is a cozy restaurant that serves healthier options to traditional Mexican cuisine. You’ll find everything from steaks and salads to burritos and tacos, each with a distinctly Mexican flair! This is the perfect place to stop for lunch before heading to the next activity on your Portland trip itinerary!

If you’re an animal lover, this is an attraction you shouldn’t miss! This is by far the best place to come if you’re wanting to meet a variety of furry and feathered friends. This incredibly diverse zoo is home to more than 230 different animal species, including nineteen endangered species and nine threatened species, making it the largest zoo in Oregon.

The zoo is located in Washington Park, making it easily accessible to the public, and close to many other Portlands points of interest. The zoo was founded in 1888, making it the oldest zoo west of the Mississippi River.

The zoo also boasts an incredible plant collection, and puts plenty of energy into creating the right environment for each of its inhabitants!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Explore Pittock Mansion

• Why it’s awesome: The Pittock mansion was built in 1912 by Henry Pittock and his wife and is absolutely beautiful.
• Cost: USD $12.
• Food nearby: Papa Haydn is a romantic cafe that crafts European desserts to meet American-style sandwiches and salads. It’s the perfect place to stop for a burger lunch or an incredibly decadent slice of cake! This exquisite restaurant is more than just a place to have a meal, it provides an experience that no foodie should miss.

The Pittock mansion boasts incredible architecture and is the perfect space to do a bit of birdwatching. The mansion is built on a forty-six-acre piece of land, and there’s plenty of birdlife around.

The original Pittock couple that built the house moved into it during 1914 and only lived for another four years before their family took over the house. Their family lived in the mansion until 1958, before selling it to the state of Oregon in 1962.

The mansion was scheduled to be demolished, but local protesters stopped the demolition and it was later opened to the public in 1965. It now has 80,000 visitors every year!

The Pittock Mansion, now a museum, is dedicated to showing people the history of Portland and how this city turned from a muddy village into the industrial hub of Oregon, and then into the thriving city that it is today!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Investigate Pioneer Courthouse Square

• Why it’s awesome: Pioneer Courthouse Square has been lovingly named by the locals: Portland’s Living Room, and is a great place to socialize and get to know the locals.
• Food nearby: Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen is a favorite amongst the locals and a must-try during your time in Portland. They serve authentic Vietnamese food and it’s absolutely delicious. Be sure to try one of their incredible noodle dishes! It’ll give you the energy you need to take on the rest of the day.

This 40,000 square foot courtyard has been lovingly renamed by the locals, as it’s become a local hangout for many of them. For many, it serves as a pedestrian footpath to simply get from one place to another, but there is so much more to this culturally vibrant courtyard!

You’ll notice a name carved into each brick, this is because the city needed funding to build the Pioneer Courthouse Square and came up with the idea of charging people $15 USD to get their name carved into a brick. These people have now become an immortalized part of the city!

There are many recreational activities to take part in, including outdoor chess tables- which makes for a great way to meet and get to know the locals.

Be sure to view the beautiful fountain that looks like a cascading waterfall, and visit the amphitheater just in case there’s live music to enjoy.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Visit the Oregon Historical Society Museum

• Why it’s awesome: You’ll get the chance to see the coin that was flipped to decide Portlands name!
• Cost: USD $10
• Food nearby: Jakes Famous Crawfish is the perfect place to end your day for any seafood lover! The decor is beautiful and gives the restaurant a very upscale feel! You can expect a myriad of unique dishes such as bacon-wrapped prawns, seafood soup, crayfish bowls, calamari plates, and seafood salads. Any dish you choose is guaranteed to be incredibly delicious. If you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to splurge on dessert too as it won’t disappoint!

The Oregon Historical Society Museum is dedicated to making Portland’s long and interesting history accessible to all! They have put together many thought-provoking exhibits, that allow you to get to know Portland just a little bit better.

The museum contains many historical artifacts, including the very coin that was flipped in order to decide on Portland’s name!

If you’re interested in the history of the place you’re traveling to, this is a must-visit during your time in Portland . Be sure to take your time and explore every exhibit, as there’s so much to learn at this incredible museum.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Forest Park | Powell’s City of Books | The Portland Art Museum | Oregon Museum of Science and Industry | Grixsen Brewing Company

During your second day in Portland, Oregon you can expect to see some great Portland attractions! You’ll start your morning off with a casual stroll through luscious natural surrounds and then explore a great big building filled with books, before heading on to many other adventures!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Walk Through Forest Park

• Why it’s awesome: Forest Park is a municipal park just outside of Portland.
• Food nearby: The Meating Place Cafe is a cozy little restaurant that doubles as a meat deli. Don’t let this fool you, their food is incredible! Just a nine-minute drive from Forest Park, it’s the perfect place to come for a morning coffee or even an early breakfast! In the morning you can expect to be served a toasted sandwich, a breakfast burger, or even a waffle.

Forest Park is a beautifully overgrown and luscious park that sits just outside of downtown Portland! In 1860, Portland decided to create the municipal park in order to preserve its beautiful forests and create a big area for recreational activities such as walking, running, and cycling during your Portland itinerary adventures.

An early morning stroll through this luscious area is a great way to get your blood flowing and get energized for the day ahead. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife you’re likely to see during your walk! The forest is home to over 112 different plant species and over 62 mammal species!

Be sure to take your camera along for this trip as you’re more than likely going to be overwhelmed by the luscious forest and its shade-loving plants, as well as the multitude of wildlife you’re bound to see!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Explore Powell’s City of Books

• Why it’s awesome: Powell’s City of Books is a massive bookstore that stretches an entire square city block and reaches three stories high!
• Food nearby: Oven and Shaker is a happening pizzeria that serves incredible wood-fired pies. A favorite amongst the locals, this cozy little restaurant never fails to amaze us! The pizza is great and the vibe is even better! Be sure to try one of their killer cocktails, we’re certain you’ll be coming back for more.

This incredible bookstore is so big you may just need a map to find your way around. But that’s why we love it! Getting lost in a ‘city of books’ is every reader’s dream. But you don’t have to be a bookworm to enjoy this immense bookstore!

Almost every day the bookstore hosts a reading by a famous author. It’s an incredible honor to watch one of these, so if you can coincide your visit with a reading, that would be ideal! If you’d like to tour the bookstore, you’ll need to let them know in advance. You can do this by simply emailing the store, and they’ll arrange for one of their friendly staff to show you around.

If you’re looking for a great read to enjoy on your plane ride home, this is sure to be the place to find it. So, keep your eyes peeled for a book that tickles your fancy!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Discover a Masterpiece at the Portland Art Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The Portland Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest, and it holds all the others to a very high standard!
• Cost: USD $20
• Food nearby: Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse is any meat-lovers dream! Expect to sit down for a delicious meaty lunch. They run an all-you-can-eat lunch special every day that helps to cut down on traveling expenses. If you’re not in the mood for a heavy lunch, don’t worry, there are plenty of delicious desserts to choose from!

At the Portland Art Museum, you’ll find Oregon’s most prestigious art collection! You can expect to find works from European masters, Japanese screen prints and American contemporary artworks, and that’s just for starters!

Once you’ve strolled through the incredible artworks inside the museum, you can visit the sculpture garden and the area devoted to photography. Each area has its own special charm and should be appreciated and observed with respect!

Delve deep into the art world and discover your favorite masterpieces from a previous century or this millennium. You’ll find it easy to get lost in the art at this museum as it stretched over the space of 3 separate buildings. For this reason, we recommend visiting their website and deciding on the exhibits you’re most interested in seeing before visiting the art museum!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Explore the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

• Why it’s awesome: The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is an interactive museum that’s filled with hands-on exhibits.
• Cost: USD $15
• Food nearby: PDX Sliders is an imaginative yet cozy restaurant that serves wonderful food. As you may have guessed, sliders are at the forefront of their menu and a hit amongst the locals. If you’re in the mood for a drink, they also serve the best local beers on the market, so be sure to give them a taste! PDX Sliders is the go-to place for all things comfort food in the Portland area!

If you have a keen interest in physics, science, chemistry, or paleontology, this is the perfect place to spend the day exploring and learning. Even if you don’t, these interactive and fun-filled displays make learning fun! It’s the kind of place you could get lost for hours.

If you’re a lover of all things ocean related, you’ll want to head to the USS Blueback display to see the most modern submarine on display in the US!

When you’ve had enough of the exhibits, be sure to see a show at the IMAX theater to get an incredible visual experience. The movies and documentaries that they show are constantly changing, so you’re sure to see something unique!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Visit Grixsen Brewing Company

• Why it’s awesome: Portland has a thriving craft beer scene, so why miss out on all the action!
• Cost: Price varies depending on the tasting you choose.
• Food nearby: Teote House Cafe is a happening Latin American Cafe that serves wonderful food until late at night! Enjoy absolutely delicious food while sipping on happy hour cocktails at this cozy joint. It’s also a great place to meet a few locals as it’s a favorite amongst those that live in the area!

A Grixsen is someone who always gives an honest effort to follow a righteous path and celebrates the good in everyone. It’s not hard to see what kind of company Grixsen Breweries is trying to be!

Grixsen was started by three friends who wanted to make a positive difference in their community, and that they did. Bringing the finest tasting beers to the modern experimental craft beer movement!

Celebrate the end of your second day in Portland with a very noble beer, and be sure to give their tasting menu a try. You’re sure to want to try more than one or two! Supporting local businesses while you travel is also a great way to give back to the community, showing your appreciation for their fine city!

HI Portland

HI Portland is centrally located in the Nob Hill district which makes for easy access to many of the main Portland attractions. Once you’ve booked your hostel, brush up on the basics of backpacking America.

• 24 Hour Reception

Doughnut Store | International Rose Test Garden | McMenamins Bagdad Theater and Pub | Dark Mini-Golf | Downtown Portland

If you’re going to be staying for more than three days in Portland, you’re going to need a few more activities to spice up your Portland trip itinerary. Here are a few extra Portland points of interest that are sure to make your holiday a hit!

Grab a Sweet Treat at Portland’s Favorite Doughnut Store

• Enjoy Portland’s most unique doughnut flavors at their Voodoo Doughnut store.
• Explore the mystical store and purchase some memorable merchandise.
• Take photos of some of the wonderfully decorated sweet and savory doughnuts.

It seems that everyone that visits Portlands needs to have at least one doughnut from Voodoo doughnuts ! It’s a right of passage of sorts. Stop by for a sweet treat and a coffee before exploring the town and be sure to snap a pic. As they say, if you didn’t post it on Instagram, did it even happen?

Choose from a range of incredible flavors including the Voodoo Doll, Bacon Maple Bar and Portland Cream. All of which are worth a try. If you’re traveling with friends, be sure to order a box of different flavors and share it amongst you!

Be sure to buy some unique merchandise at the Voodoo doughnuts store. It’s the perfect way to immortalize your Portland trip with a memorable souvenir! After visiting the store, we’re sure you’ll fall under their witchy doughnut spell and be back for more!

Visit the International Rose Test Garden

• If you love to stroll through beautiful gardens then this is the perfect activity to add to your Portland itinerary!
• It’s best to skip the parking and arrive by walking, cycling, or by using a rideshare to get around. The parking lot is often full and it may take you a while to find parking.
• Be sure to check out the public art while you’re in the rose garden! All public art was donated by local artists.

Portland’s Best Rose competition is held in the gardens each year, where judges from all over the world come to judge the roses in the International Rose Test Garden. This is a testament to the quality of the roses in this beautiful garden!

Be sure to check out the whole garden, in certain areas you’ll even be able to find fragrant roses that fill the area with a beautiful aroma! Unfortunately, you’re not allowed to pick the roses, but you can take photos to remember this beautiful place.

On the premises, you’ll also find a miniature rose garden that provides the garden with some of the cutest flowers you’ll ever see. This rose garden is well worth the visit and is a must add to your Portland itinerary!

Watch a Movie at McMenamins Bagdad Theater and Pub

• Bagdad Theater was originally opened in 1927 and it has a distinctly old-timey Hollywood feel to it!
• Sit back and relax with buttery popcorn as well as an ice cold beer while you enjoy a movie.
• During its first year open, Bagdad Theater and Pub ran only silent films.

Visiting the Bagdad Theater and Pub, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the early 1900’s! Although the Bagdad Theater and Pub has undergone many upgrades over the years, it has managed to preserve its authentic Hollywood feel.

The historical Bagdad theater has been a favorite amongst the locals for over 90 years and we believe will continue to be a hit for many more!

Be sure to check what movies are showing ahead of time, and to book in advance for the more popular films just to ensure you won’t miss out on attending this awesome theater! Stopping by at the pub for a bite to eat after the show is also a great idea. The Bagdad Theater and Pub is known for its great food, so don’t miss out on this tasty opportunity!

Play Glow in the Dark Mini-Golf

• If you’re into unique sports, this just may be the game for you.
• Decide whether you want to partake in a long or short game by choosing either the nine-hole or eighteen-hole option.
• Play miniature golf under black lights on a 3D miniature golf course.

This is a great and memorable game to take part in, especially if you’re traveling with friends. A little challenge always makes the trip a little more exciting! Depending on the number of people playing, a full round generally takes about forty-five minutes to complete, so you’ll still have plenty of time in your day to enjoy other activities.

Glow in the dark mini-golf is also a great opportunity to get some really interesting photos while you make some incredibly unique memories! Although this game is usually played in groups of two or four people, you could always arrive and team up with a group there if you’re traveling along.

Be sure to book before you go as it gets really busy during certain times of the year, especially during school holidays. If you’re not in Portland during the school holidays, then don’t worry about booking as you’ll be able to show up and play whenever you like!

Explore Downtown Portland

• There’s plenty to do in Downtown Portland, but it’s easily explorable by foot, which saves you money on public transport!
• Exploring a neighborhood is one of the best ways to get to know an area and the people that live there. It opens you up to meeting new people and making friendships!
• Downtown Portland is a fun mix of hipster bars and cafes, with arty boutiques and breweries thrown in the mix.

There really is something for everybody’s taste in Downtown Portland! Whether you’re in the mood for a shop-til-you-drop experience, or you just feel like strolling around and getting a feel for the area, you won’t be disappointed.

To make sure you’re getting the most authentic experience of Downtown Portland, be sure to eat at one of the many creative food trucks in the area. You’ll find them everywhere serving up a range of different cuisines. Locals tend to stop by for a bite to eat on their lunch breaks or on their way home from work, so why not join in the trend?

If you haven’t visited an art museum on your trip yet, be sure to stop by one of the many art galleries in the area. Whether it’s to spark the creativity in you or to just enjoy the art scene, you’re sure to find a gallery to suit your taste in Downtown Portland!

Portland is generally a very safe city to visit, and it’s unlikely that you’ll come across anything that’ll make you feel unsafe or even unwelcome in the great city, but that doesn’t mean you should be careless. When traveling, you should always take certain precautions to make sure you have a safe and undisturbed trip!

If you’re renting a car, be sure to hide your valuables out of site so that you don’t become the next victim of a smash-and-grab. Just like any other big city, smash-and-grabs happen from time to time.

Because so many people ride bicycles in Portland, bike theft has also become a problem. If you decide to rent a bike, make sure the rental shop gives you a proper lock for the bicycle, so that you can keep it safe even when you’re not on it!

Beware of overstaying your welcome in a parking space, or parking in a no-parking zone. Portland’s parking police take their jobs very seriously, and you could face a fine for staying just a few minutes more than your parking meter allows! Explaining that you’re foreign to Portland meter police doesn’t usually work either.

Be sure to check out other safety tips to make sure you stay safe during your tour of Portland!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Portland

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re going to be staying for more than three days in Portland, we recommend adding a few day trips to your Portland itinerary! This is often the best way to squeeze in the most Portland points of interest during your travels. Here are a few of the best day trips you should be adding to your itinerary!

Wine and Waterfalls Portland Day Trip

On this eight-hour tour, you’ll start your in the morning by heading to the Columbia River Gorge. Here you’ll get the chance to stand at the foot of the second highest year-round waterfall in the U.S – Multnomah falls. This is one of the coolest hikes in Oregon.

You’ll then explore the rest of the Columbia River Gorge and see many other waterfalls along the way. After an exciting morning, ignoring the advice of TLC and waterfall-chasing with your experienced guide, you’ll enjoy an incredible lunch with wonderful views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, while tasting fine wines.

Be sure to take your camera along for this Portland day-trip as this tour will provide you with many Instagrammable moments!

Mount Hood: Full Day Loop Tour From Portland

You’ll start your day with an early morning pick-up from the hotel. You’ll then be driven along a forested highway to the Mt. Hood wilderness , where you’ll stop to take a look at a few spectacular waterfalls! You’ll be taken to the best waterfall viewing spot, Benson Bridge, where you’ll be able to capture some incredible footage of the cascading waterfall!

Next, you’ll be taken to Hood River, a picturesque valley town, known as one of the best wind-sport destinations in the Portland area! You’ll get a chance to watch kiteboarders and windsurfers in action, before exploring the town a little further.

You’ll enjoy a bit of free time to explore Hood River, doing some shopping, having lunch, and doing a little wine tasting before heading home!

Oregon Coast Day Tour: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

During the eight-hour tour, you’ll get the chance to enjoy spectacular views of the dramatic Oregon coastline and the breath-taking Pacific Ocean. Your first stop will be Neahkahnie Point, which provides views of the massive expanse of ocean before you! It’s known as the best whale watching location on the coast.

You’ll then visit Short Sand Beach, which is a four mile stretch of beach, surrounded by luscious, temperate rainforest vegetation. After stopping for a walk and some photo-taking, you’ll head to Cannon Beach.

Cannon Beach is a small beach-side village that is easily walkable and fun to explore! You’ll get the rest of the afternoon to meander its pathways, enjoy its public artworks and photograph its beautiful flowers.

Eugene Highlights and Wine Tasting Combo

On this nine-hour tour, you’ll explore various attractions in the Downtown Eugene area. You’ll tour through the Shelton McMurphy Johnson house, which has been iconic in the Eugene area for over a century!

You’ll then explore the 400 different types of roses in the Owen Rose Garden , and then head to the University of Oregon for a tour of the beautiful campus. You’ll also get the chance to tour the Cascades Raptor Center, which has one of the largest collections of Raptor species in the Pacific Northwest!

You’ll then be dropped off in the Downtown area for lunch, before heading back to Portland.

Mount St. Helen’s Full-Day Tour From Portland

During this ten and a half hour tour of Mount St. Helen, you’ll get a few spectacular hiking opportunities. You’ll also get the chance to see the largest lava tube in the US! Along the way, you’ll learn a lot about the geology of the area, even visiting an old blast zone!

You’ll then visit the site of the largest landslide in recorded human history and learn how exactly volcanoes are now monitored.

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled during the tour, as elk, deer, beavers, otters, and an array of birds are all common sights on this tour.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Portland itinerary.

Is Portland worth visiting?

Hell yeah! It’s full of incredible and rich culture, history and unique activities and sights. It’s also pretty off the beaten track too.

What are some fun things to do in Portland for adults?

Take a fun filled day trip exploring the Oregon coast . From beautiful places like Cannon Beach and Neahkahnie Point you can take in incredible and expansive views.

What are some family things to do in Portland, Oregon?

Washington Park provides a great day for all the family with a children’s museum, tennis courts, an arboretum and Japanese Gardens.

What are some great unique things to do in Portland, Oregon?

Portland is home to some wacky food creations at Jakes Famous Crawfish including things like bacon-wrapped prawns and crayfish bowls! Yum!

No matter what kind of vacation you prefer, we’re absolutely sure that Portland has something for you. Being such a big city, with such a vast population of people, there really is something for everyone’s taste!

If the big city life just isn’t for you, there’s plenty to do just outside of Portland. Luckily for every nature lover, Portland is surrounded by nature and has one of the biggest urban parks right in its center. This means you’re never too far from luscious vegetation and beautiful scenery. And, if you really like the outdoors, you can even stay at one of the stunning Eco-lodges in Portland where you can experience nature in Portland at its finest.

If you’re a thrill seeker looking for adventure, or you’re just looking for a break from mundane everyday life, Portland has plenty to offer . We hope you spotted some fabulous activities that you’d like to add to your Portland itinerary!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Portland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 20, 2024

by Kate Daniel

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a 2 or 3 days in Portland itinerary can be an absolute joy when it comes to all of the cool and unusual things to do in this eclectic Oregon city. Echoing Austin — Texas’ hipster oasis — the Rose City’s motto, “Keep Portland Weird,” sums up its distinctive character, one affectionately satirized in the cult favorite TV show Portlandia .

But Portland’s quirkiness isn’t its only quality. Far from it. This modern metropolis, a gem of the Northwest, is also famous for its incredible food scene, eco-consciousness, gregarious locals, and much more.

If you’re planning a long weekend in Portland, read on to find some of the must-see attractions in this delightfully, proudly off-beat city. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Portland?

Many would-be visitors to the Rose City will inevitably wonder how many days in Portland is enough to really do it justice and not feel too rushed.

Though it is Oregon’s largest city, Portland is also relatively compact and you can easily get a good feel for it in just a couple of days. With 2 days in Portland, you will have time to see all of the highlights in the downtown area and experience some of the city’s nightlife!

And if you happen to be visiting for a weekend trip, you can also have the opportunity to browse the Portland Saturday Market, which is considered to be the largest outdoor market in the USA.

If you have more time, consider spending another day in the city. Seeing Portland in 3 days allows you to venture further and maybe head out on a day trip from the city. However, there are plenty of things to do in Portland that you will be just as happy staying within the city!

Best Time to Visit Portland 

Like its infamously rainy northern neighbor Seattle, Portland, too, upholds the Pacific Northwest’s cold, damp stereotype for much of the year. You’re almost guaranteed to see some rain, no matter when you visit.

Bring a jacket and, as long as you don’t mind standing out, an umbrella! Pacific Northwesterners are weirdly umbrella-averse. I don’t know why. It’s just how it is. We’ll walk in a literal downpour with our hoodie pulled way up over our beanie-clad head, soaking wet, and act completely unbothered. Don’t be like us; umbrellas exist for a reason.

However, it’s not all rain all the time. You can expect some days that exceed 90 ° F (32 ° C), chilly mornings, and cool nights on any given summer day in Portland.

Late spring, summer, and early fall are undoubtedly the best times to visit, not just because of the sunshine. It’s also when the rose, rhododendrons, and other flowers that line the city streets and urban gardens will be in full bloom, making the already-colorful city extra bright.

This is also prime time for outdoor events and festivals. 

If you visit in winter, expect to be cold and wet (like, really wet). The good news is Oregon’s coast and near-coast region doesn’t usually drop to freezing during winter, meaning you should be safe from snow and ice. If you want that sort of thing, though, Mt. Hood isn’t far! 

Getting To & Around Portland

As its name denotes, Portland is and always has been a significant transport hub. But not just for seafarers. It’s also well-connected to the region via a train station, numerous buses, and an international airport. It’s also just under three hours’ drive from Seattle . 

Portland is relatively easy to navigate. The MAX light rail from the airport to downtown takes about 40 minutes and costs about $2.50, or you can Uber or Lyft if you don’t have a car. 

While traffic can be heavy, it’s not as bad when compared to nearby Seattle. Most people walk or cycle everywhere or take public transport. 

The city’s stellar public transit network consists of MAX light rail, streetcars, and commuter rail, making it easy to get around Portland. If you’re going to stay within city limits, you really don’t need a car at all. 

Most tourist attractions in the Rose City are located on the west side of the Willamette River and neighborhoods like downtown, the Pearl District, and Nob Hill. If your home base is in this area, you can walk or cycle most places. 

The Rose City is famously bike-friendly, yet unlike some cycle-centric metropolises (Amsterdam), you’re not likely to get hit by a bike if you do prefer to hoof it. If you didn’t bring a bike, you could rent one for a few hours, the day, or the weekend from providers like Bike Town. 

If you want to venture outside the city to the Oregon Coast or even down to San Francisco , which I can’t recommend strongly enough, a car will be helpful. You can rent one through Rentalcars.com if you don’t have your own. 

Don’t fret if driving isn’t your thing, though! There are buses to some of the best destinations, like Seaside and Cannon Beach. A Greyhound from Union Station to Cannon Beach takes about two hours. Just be prepared to navigate a sporadic bus system once you get to your destination or walk/taxi everywhere. 

2 to 3-Day Portland Itinerary

There’s always something happening in The Rose City, and you may find it hard to fit in everything you want to do in just one weekend. But if you do only have two days in Portland, here are a few stops you won’t want to miss. 

Day 1 – Doughnuts, Bookshops & Museums!

Voodoo doughnuts .

The first stop is the city’s most famous and beloved doughnut shop,  Voodoo Doughnuts , where you can grab a breakfast pastry and coffee. 

Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon, two entertainment-minded entrepreneurs, opened the first Voodoo Doughnuts in 2003. At the time, there wasn’t a single doughnut shop in downtown Portland, so you can imagine the craze that erupted when a shop as wacky as the city itself opened up and started serving up delicious pastries in a medley of classic and unconventional flavors.

Within a month, the shop had achieved a national press mention and a loyal, die-hard following at home. They’re now world-famous and an absolute must-stop on any Portland weekend itinerary.

If you’re still hungry or the line at Voodoo is absurdly long, head to Blue Star. While Voodoo’s patrons are about a 50/50 mix of tourists and locals, many Portlanders eschew the shop, insisting  Blue Star  is far better. 

The lesser-known but no less tasty Blue Star serves up various tantalizing flavors, including Cointreau Crème Brûlée, maple bacon, Valrhona chocolate crunch, and The O.G., featuring an orxata (horchata) glaze. 

If you’re really into your doughnuts you can even do a doughnut tour!

Powell’s Books 

Powell’s Books  is heaven for bookworms. The world’s largest independent bookstore, it is undoubtedly one of Portland’s most prized assets and another quintessential stop on a Portland, Oregon itinerary. 

The shop spans an entire city block and is packed with a vast array of new and used books in every genre. 

Grab a basket; you’ll need it to carry everything you pick up as you browse the labyrinth. 

Powell’s is also famous for its rare book room, featuring rare first editions and signed copies of antique and contemporary titles. 

After checking out, head to the café to rest for a bit and have a bite and a coffee. You’ll need to re-energize after spending a couple of hours wandering the store! And yes, you will probably be drinking a lot of coffee on your weekend in Portland. When in Rome… 

An Afternoon at the Museum 

Before heading out to get a taste of Portland’s vibrant nightlife, check out one (or both!) of the city’s most prominent museums.

The  Oregon Museum of Science and Industry  features various temporary exhibitions throughout the year and the Natural Science Hall, Empirical Theater, USS Blueback Submarine, and Kendall Planetarium. 

Learn about everything from ancient natural history to contemporary scientific innovations and get lost in the mind-blowing vastness and complexity of the night sky. 

Founded in 1892, the  Portland Art Museum  is one of the West Coast’s oldest art museums. 

It features various temporary exhibitions featuring world-renowned artists in painting, print, mixed media, film, and more. The museum also houses permanent collections, including Native American Art, Asian Art, Northwest Art, European Art, American Art, and Photography. 

Fancy a history lesson? Check out  Pittock Mansion , which offers an immersive look at the city’s past in the setting of one of its oldest and most beautiful historic homes. The mansion also has a fantastic view of the city! 

Enjoy Portland’s Nightlife

People joke that everyone in Portland is a barista, in a band, or both. And it’s not that far from the truth. There’s pretty much always a live show going on somewhere.

On your first night out, head to a venue or go bar-hopping and let yourself get swept into the vibrant nightlife scene.

Oregon Public House  is a great place to start. The family-friendly pub, open from 4-9:30 p.m., donates all profits to local charities and is a popular meeting spot for non-profits. Start your evening with a delicious meal and a drink while giving back to the community in the process! 

Then head to Alberta Street, the place to be for hip, local flavor. Start at Alberta Street Pub , a high-end establishment with a terrace perfect for sipping a cocktail on a summer evening. Then, stop by Radio Room , an art deco-themed bar with vegan treats and seasonal cocktails.

Next is Bye and Bye , a Southern-inspired bar with superb vegan cuisine. If it wasn’t clear by now, Portland is also one of the easiest places to be a vegan tourist! 

Also on Alberta Street is Alleyway Bar, which is a bit grungy in the best possible way and often hosts live music. 

McMenamins Crystal Ballroom, Revolution Hall, Alladin Theater, Dante’s, and Mississippi Studios are other hot spots for live music. Grab a copy of  Portland Mercury  to see what’s happening on any given evening. 

Day 2 – Food Trucks, Parks & Arcades

Check out the food truck scene .

The Rose City is a foodie paradise, with a vast array of establishments from small cafes to Michelin restaurants. 

For the second day of your time in Portland, grab brunch at a food cart. 

Portland famously has the  most strip clubs per capita  of any U.S. city, about twice as many as public restrooms. But it’s also home to one of the nation’s biggest food truck scenes!

More than 600 food trucks throughout the city dishing up every kind of cuisine imaginable, from Korean to Ethiopian to and down-home barbecue to vegan pizza. Seriously, they have it all.

Unlike most food truck scenes, Portland’s are not mobile. Instead, they are organized into stationary “pods.” You can find a map of all the carts  here , divided by categories to make finding your next meal a cinch. 

You won’t get to try them all on your weekend in Portland, but you can try at least a few throughout the day! According to locals and critics, some of the best include Yoshi’s Sushi, Farmer & the Beast, Bing Mi, Matt’s BBQ, and Baby Blue Woodfired Pizza. 

Washington Park 

Next up on your Portland weekend itinerary is a stroll through Washington Park. 

This urban green space is massive, with a zoo, arboretum, amphitheater, children’s museum, Japanese Garden, and International Test Rose Garden. The latter two are especially worth a visit. 

The Portland Japanese Garden comprises 5.5 acres with impeccably landscaped greenery and water features, and a tea house. 

The International Test Rose Garden features more than 10,000 roses in over 650 varieties of numerous colors and styles. This is reason enough to come in summer! June is peak bloom season, but there will likely be sweet-scented blossoms in late April through early October.

Ground Control 

Want to feel like a kid again if you’re spending 2 days in Portland? Head to  Ground Control , the family-friendly, nostalgia-inducing vintage-meets-futuristic arcade. It’s usually open from midday ‘til late. 

With an arcade and video games, pinball machines, and a dance mat, it’s the perfect spot to spend a couple of hours on a rainy afternoon! 

McMenamins 

Next, grab a bite or a drink at McMenamins. 

McMenamins  is a local chain of family-owned establishments, primarily hotels, restaurants, and bars, located in repurposed or rejuvenated historic buildings. Each location is unique, with distinct features reflecting the city and its history. 

McMenamins Kennedy School is one of the best. Located in a former abandoned elementary school, it might sound like the stuff horror movies are made of.

But there’s nothing spooky going on here unless there’s a scary flick showing at the in-house movie theatre. Besides the cinema, there’s also a hotel with unique rooms that evoke a sense of school-age nostalgia, a pool, a bar, and a brewery. 

McMenamins Crystal Hotel, next to the Crystal Ballroom, in the Pearl District, the White Eagle Saloon & Hotel, and St. Johns Theatre & Pub are other popular McMenamins locales in Portland. 

Day 3 – Day Trip from Portland

If you can spend 3 days in Portland, then there are a few great day trips you can take from the Rose City, if you’d like.

If the weather is nice, take advantage of the city’s status as one of the best spots for eco-tourism in the US! 

If you’re craving something unusual and distinctly Portland, take a short but somewhat challenging hike up to Witch’s Castle. The “castle” doesn’t have anything to do with witches. But the abandoned structure has had many unpleasant lives throughout the past 150 years and is said to be haunted.  

A bit further afield, there are multiple spots to check out the Pacific Northwest’s beauty along the Columbia River, at Multnomah Falls, Silver Falls, Hood River, or Mt. Hood. 

A little further still, but so worth it, is the stunning Oregon Coast, with vast stretches of sandy, atmospheric beaches and quaint towns like Seaside and Astoria.  

Where to Stay in Portland

If you’re looking for a great place to stay during your weekend in Portland, you really are spoilt for choice. There are countless great places to rest your head in the Rose City and if you’re looking for something great, check out these suggestions:

The Society Hotel – Situated within easy walking (or cycling!) distance of the Rose City’s top attractions, this chic hotel is perfect for those looking for a great place to stay. There are a number of rooms available and also a restaurant on site.

Kimpton Riverplace Hotel – If the life of luxury is more your style, then you can’t go wrong with this great hotel. Located on the banks of the Willamette River, there are a number of plush rooms available and countless other amenities to ensure your stay is a luxurious one.

HI Portland – Northwest – For budget backpackers or solo visitors, this hostel is a great choice for you. They have dorm beds and private rooms and there are also some great self-catering facilities and common areas to make meeting other traveller’s a breeze!

Private Rental – If you’re after a bit of privacy on your trip to Portland or would rather have a more “local” feel, then a private rental is the choice for you! There are a myriad of great properties in the Rose City, like this quaint, centrally located house .

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Portland!

Planning the perfect weekend in Portland itinerary really isn’t a hard task as there are so many amazing things to do in this Pacific Northwest city.

Are you planning to visit Portland? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 3 to 5-Day Oregon Coast Itinerary

10 Best Stops on a Portland to Crater Lake Road Trip

The Ultimate Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

About Kate Daniel

Kate Daniel is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Washington State, she is a slow traveller and digital nomad who loves exploring both her own backyard and far-flung destinations. When she isn't writing, she is most likely befriending stray cats or daydreaming about the next adventure.

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Road is Calling

Weekend in Portland, Oregon – My Perfect 2 to 4 Days in Portland Itinerary

It took me almost two and a half years to write my version of the Portland itinerary. Not that I have been writing it for two years, no. But only two and half years after Mark and I left America  I realized how much we enjoyed this city when restoring an old Victorian house there.

So I thought why not share all my favorite spots and points of interest in this very detailed post. No matter if you are coming for a few days during the week or for a weekend in Portland, all these places will have something to offer.

Portland, Oregon’s largest city, has many names. Some people call it the “city of roses” or “the city of bridges”. But, regardless of what you call it, you can be sure that you’ll find this city unforgettable, flourishing, and very green.

Portland attracts tourists from all over the world with its local microbreweries, cozy restaurants, brunch cafes, distilleries, and bookstores. In addition, it also has the indescribable beauty of the natural landscapes that are situated in close proximity.

Planning a perfect 2, 3, or 4 days (or weekend) in Portland itinerary can be a bit overwhelming since there are so many things to do and places to visit. So this post will answer all the questions and ensure that you get the most out of your trip.

Note: If you are visiting from out of state, want to go on a road trip from Portland and need a car, the best company to rent a vehicle is Discover Cars . They offer the best deals, provide good support and easy cancellations.

The Best Time of the Year to Visit Portland, Oregon

If you are wondering when to visit Portland, Oregon, you have to answer at first the question what’s the final goal of your trip.      

Weather conditions in Portland facilitate a visit there at any season. The temperature is comfortable throughout the whole year.

Summers are not very hot, with the maximum average temperature of about +95F (35C) in August. But even then the difference between day and night temperatures is significant. Nights are usually cool and very comfortable. Also, it doesn’t rain a lot in the summer which creates comfortable conditions for various experiences. Additionally, this season is great since it’s full of festivals and various events.

Winters are moderately cold. In January, the average temperature is around 40F (4.5C) and it rarely drops below zero. Although the possibility of a strong snowstorm is not excluded. Winters generally see a lot of rainfall, although recent years (perhaps because of climate change) were drier and sunnier.

If you want to see Portland in all its green and blooming beauty, be sure to go on vacation in the spring. If looking for mind-blowing foliage colors then plan for the early fall. May-June and September-October are the best months to visit Portland weather vise. But winters are perfect for cozy cafes, breweries, and romantic getaways in charming Inns. The city of roses has so many of them.

How Many Days in Portland 

Many people, when planning their trip to Portland, often overlook this West Coast city thinking that there is not much to do. We were like that too. We thought that spending a weekend in Portland would be enough. But then after just a few days there we figured that we could easily spend a week or even more.

So when thinking about how many days you should spend in Portland, decide at first on the activities. If traveling to this part of Oregon for nature or glamping , then one day in Portland may be enough. A city person would want to spend 3 or 4 days in Portland.

If you will be spending only 2 days, then make sure to prioritize what you’d like to see. My 2-day Portland itinerary is packed with the highlights of downtown and some green areas inside the city. However, it doesn’t include any sites outside Portland. Use ideas from the 3rd and 4th days to prioritize what you’d like to do.

Spending 3 days in Portland or more is ideal as it will allow you to cover not only the central part of the city but venture outside and visit wineries, breweries, spas, and waterfalls. Having time for a 4-day Portland itinerary is the best as it allows you to take it slower and experience everything in depth.

Getting To & Around Portland 

Portland has its own international airport (which by the way is located right in the city and is easy to get to and from) with numerous direct connections with almost all US cities. This is why reaching Portland from any corner of the US and Canada is an easy thing to do. However, some travelers prefer to fly to Seattle, rent a car there, and drive to Portland.

If you are an international traveler, you may end up flying to Seattle too. There are many cheap flights between Seattle and cities in Europe and Asia, so going there is more convenient. Seattle international airport also has better rental car deals for those who plan to travel in Washington state before going to Portland. The two cities are also connected by train and getting from one city to another takes about 3 hours 30 minutes. 

Once in Portland, you shouldn’t worry about the car. It is one of the most walkable cities in America with many protected bike lanes and walkable bridges that connect the city. Getting around Portland is easy and enjoyable also because of the efficient public transportation system. You can take a bus, a metro (Max Light Rail), or a Commuter Train (WES Commuter Rail) to get places. 

When we volunteered in Portland, depending on where exactly we planned to go, we were taking buses, metro, or our car. We also walked a lot. But the easiest way to get around the city was definitely by bus and train.  

If you follow my 2 and 4-day Portland itinerary and stay only in the city, there is no need to rent a car. But since Portland has so much natural beauty around, you may want to venture outside, especially if coming to Portland for 4 days or longer. And for that, having your own vehicle is a must.

Nearby Mount Hood national park, stunning Columbia River Gorge Highway , and even the Oregon coast with its cute small towns are pretty close. So you can easily combine a trip to Portland city with a road trip through the state.

2 Days in Portland Itinerary – Ideas For a Weekend or Any Time During the Week

If you have only 2 days in Portland and visit this city for the first time, the best way is to spend these two days in the city center. Explore the Pearl District, downtown, two neighborhoods in Northern Portland and famous green spaces in the western part of the city.

Day 1 of my itinerary concentrates more on cultural and historical experiences while day 2 brings you closer to nature.

And of course, both days are packed with quite a few awesome places where to eat and try some of the best famous drinks and cocktails.

Day 1 in Portland 

Start your day at fuller’s coffee shop.

I assume that you are starting your day early and you are staying somewhere between Northwest and Pearl Districts. In this case, getting to an authentic diner with a feel of a small town will be easy and worth your effort.

Of course, if you are not having breakfast at your B&B or hotel, then get a classic diner experience in one of the best eateries in Portland. Fans of eggs, toasts, pancakes, waffles, hash browns, and never-ending coffee will have an old school American breakfast there.

Fuller’s coffee shop is really one of the most famous and popular places among locals with very delicious food and lively ambiance. Expect it to be busy, especially if planning a weekend trip there. On a weekday, there also may be a wait time to get a seat but you can always call ahead and make a reservation.

If you happen to crave bacon, this is seriously a place to go to. These guys know how to load you up on it.  

Alternative places where to have breakfast : Mother’s Bistro & Bar is another classic breakfast and brunch spot in Portland with an amazing atmosphere and unique selection of menu items.

VISIT THE BEST BOOKSTORE IN THE US

Just two blocks away from Fuller’s coffee shop is Powell’s City of Books store – the biggest book store in the US with a rare section of unique books. I am not saying that you have to spend half a day here but why not to check this place out, especially if it’s on the way.

Powell’s books store is really huge. And it’s always so busy. The site has countless rooms with different genres and spread out computers that can help you find a book you need. A huge number of children’s books, new and used books of various genres mixed together provide an opportunity for anyone to choose the price and book they want.

Even if you don’t plan to buy a book, it is still worth the trip here just to see how huge space is and how many books are in one place. The massive book inventory and people visiting and working in the store make it a fun trip.

We spent good two hours on a thorough walk-through on all four floors, taking photos and looking around. Instagrammers, by the way, will really appreciate this place since there are a few spots around the store where you can take cool shots.

For a really quick visit, set aside at least an hour. But for someone who is interested in books, store’s cute little cafe, and a small gift shop with souvenirs from Portland, more time is definitely needed.

STROLL IN TOM MCCALL WATERFRONT PARK 

Tom McCall waterfront park is always seeing various festivals and events. In the springtime, it also sees crowds of people who come to enjoy cherry blossoms in full bloom. 

But in my opinion, it is a really nice park to visit at any time of the year. Don’t spend a lot of time but come for a walk or bike alongside the river, have a relaxing time and take good photos with the Hawthorne bridge in the background. The Waterfront park trail opens up a gorgeous view of the two bridges and the water. On a hot summer afternoon, it’s also a good place to splash around in the fountain and cool down in a breeze.

If you are visiting Portland for a weekend getaway, then come to Tom McCall park on Saturday morning. It has a nice Saturday farmer’s market with fresh produce.

On any other day, there is an opportunity to rent bikes, tandem bikes, and go on a boat cruise down the river. Some river cruises like this 2-hour lunch cruise through downtown Portland offer food, live music, and tons of positive emotions! 

Oh, and on a day with clear skies, you can even see Mount Hood from there.

VISIT OREGON MARITIME MUSEUM

While visiting Tom McCall waterfront park, you may want to learn about the rich history of Portland’s founders and rivermen in this interactive museum. The Oregon Maritime Museum is housed on the historic steam sternwheeler Portland. It offers visitors to explore the last operating sternwheel steam tug in the United States.

The get the best experience, the museum offers interactive tours packed with many facts. During the tour, you can take a glimpse into the history of Oregon’s riverboat days. Very knowledgeable docents (who are volunteers there) will walk you through all the details about every aspect of the working steam-powered boat and show tons of models and artifacts. 

Families who are visiting Portland with kids younger than 5 years old may want to skip the museum though. It will be difficult for children to appreciate maritime history and engineering technology. 

The museum is open only on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and the tour usually lasts a bit more than an hour. So if you really plan to visit, plan accordingly. 

RENT A BIKE & EXPLORE PORTLAND CYCLING AROUND 

Portland prides itself on being the most bike-friendly city in the US. Every year more new bike lanes and riding trails appear around the city and cycling on a bike here is a fantastic experience. When we were biking, it felt like we were in Europe, seriously.

So if you had to spend only a few hours in Portland and could pick only one experience, I’d definitely encourage you to go biking. Of course, if you enjoy this activity.

Besides Biketown PDX, a bicycle-sharing system, there are many privately owned bike rental shops around the city. You can literally rent a bike around almost every corner and follow famous routes in any direction . 

Or for a more exciting experience, simply join a biking tour. Having someone show you all of Portland’s hidden gems and tell interesting stories can help you fit much more in one day. For example, check this 2-hour bike tour which covers all main city sights or a 3-hour full tour of downtown .

MAKE A QUICK STOP IN LAN SU CHINESE GARDEN 

Lan Su Yuan garden is considered the most authentic Chinese garden in the world outside China. This tranquil oasis in the city center takes up the whole block and contains five elements of traditional Chinese gardens. Those elements are water, plants, rocks, architecture, and inscriptions. It’s very calming and fascinating to come here for a walk. 

This garden is situated in a busy noisy neighborhood but once you are inside, it’s very relaxing and peaceful.

Pop in here to wind through the courtyards and pavilions. If budget allows, take a tour because guides do a great job describing all the nuances that go into planning a Chinese garden. There is also a beautiful tea garden on premises where you can rest and refuel with a lovely cup of tea and assorted light foods. 

TAKE IN EPIC VIEWS FROM THE XPORT LOUNGE

In the end of the day, when you are done with sightseeing, why not sip champagne and enjoy oysters while taking in epic views of the city. Hey, another place with views of Portland, there are so many of them!

Xport Bar & Lounge,  part of a very nice  Porter Hotel ,  offers sweeping views along with the decor, vibe, and yummy snacks. Here, on the 16th floor, you can have a signature drink and a few bites while overlooking Portland’s skyline, bridges, and even mountains in the distance.

On a chilly night, choose to sit near the fire under the open sky. It feels so romantic! 

Day 2 in Portland 

On the second day in Portland, you should get acquainted with the city through its green areas. Washington Park and Macleay Park in the western part of the city are homes to gardens, sanctuaries, Portland Zoo, hiking trails, and some historic houses.

Also, any of these parks is just a really great place to go for a quick hike in Portland or a day out in nature. With its size and amount of activities, you can easily spend an entire day there. See below the points of interest not to miss.

And for the evening, pay a visit to famous Portland’s breweries or pubs. 

VISIT THE JAPANESE GARDEN 

Japanese garden in Portland rightfully deserves the title of a gem. Being different from the Chinese garden mentioned above, the Japanese garden also guarantees a spirit of tranquility and refuge from the busy city life. From the rose garden and ponds with fish to the hand-built waterfall, every part here is beautiful.

On our visit to Portland in the summer, our host recommended coming here the first thing in the morning to avoid crowds and have this garden to ourselves. And to be honest, it was a very smart decision. We really spent the first hour wandering on our own. This is why I am also recommending you to venture here in the early morning during the high season. In the off-season, any time of the day is good.

So, in this beautiful and serene place, you’ll find a blend of bushes, rare unique trees, beautifully made paths and sculptures, fountains, ponds, and pavilions. Five separate gardens offer a unique environment and design. A gorgeous coffee house is a great place for a quick snack. See the garden’s website for more details, pricing, and schedule. 

SEE WORLD’S ROSES IN THE INTERNATIONAL ROSE TEST GARDEN 

If visiting the City of Roses from May through August, make sure to include to Portland itinerary a visit to the well-maintained International Rose Test Garden. During this time of the year, the garden boasts thousands of roses and offers space for meditation.

In any other season, it is also a must-visit. Lovers of peaceful walks in nature in the middle of a city will appreciate some great views of the downtown skyline and Mt. Hood. 

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, there are daily free tours led by trained volunteers that start at 1 p.m. Additionally, guided tours for a symbolic fee are also available throughout the year. Read more details about the tours as well as history and how to get there on the garden’s website .

From the downtown area or Pearl district, you can easily reach the International Rose Test Garden on foot, stopping for a meal at one of the cafes on the way there. Come here before (or for) the sunset when there are fewer crowds.

TOUR (OR WALK AROUND) THE PITTOCK MANSION 

A beautifully restored mansion, which at the beginning of the 20th century belonged to a successful newspaper publisher Henry Pittock, today is a museum with interesting interiors, history, and art. Everyone who visits can go on a self-guided or group tour and transport 100 years in the past.

The house is built in heavy stone and has amazingly decorated rooms and interiors. Each room has a different design with many amazing details. Exploring the house will be very informative for both kids and adults alike. The mansion is really impressive and the hike through a forest park is a beautiful way to get there. If you are spending only two days in Portland and doubting either to go or not, you won’t regret this visit.

Even if you don’t feel like paying for inside access, it’s still worth taking a trip for the views alone. From the lookout point (which is a front yard of the mansion,) you can get a wonderful view of the city and Mt Hood in the distance.

Check more information about the tours, prices, and schedule on the Pittock Mansion’s website .

SEE A MUSEUM OF TREES IN HOYT ARBORETUM 

Many cities around the US have their own arboretums. But honestly, none of them are as special as Hoyt Arboretum in Portland. You see, this place has 12 miles of trails that take you through a magnificent collection of rare trees.

Redwood, maple, magnolia and pine trees along with other types of trees and trails create various landscapes perfect for walking or jogging.

What’s interesting, Hoyt arboretum is listed in many magazines as one of the most beautiful urban parks in America. And a lot of people from all over the world come here just to see many unique trees in one living museum.

This park is great for all ages and is a good place to hide from the heat and hike around. On a cold winter day, it looks very spooky when covered in mist.

VISIT OREGON ZOO

If you’re an animal lover or traveling with kids, add to your Portland itinerary a lovely zoo situated in the nooks of the Portland ring forest. The zoo is not big but with all the exhibits you could definitely devote at least half a day to it. 

The best part of the zoo is the first section with animals local to the Pacific Northwest only. It’s very interesting to visit for this part alone, skipping the rest which is pretty much the same as in many other American cities. With many exhibits and educational activities, the zoo has unique animals. Just some of those are pink pandas, painted dogs, rare types of bats, polar bears, and sea otters.

TAKE A WALK IN A MACLEAY PARK

Macleay Park is actually pretty popular among locals, that’s why it often gets crowded. But you understand why after taking a fairy tale walk through this corner of a bigger Forest Park.

The reasons to visit here are multiple trails for hiking, biking, walking, and horseback riding. There is an abandoned stone house to hike to and wildwood trail with a lovely river that follows the main path.

So if you love nature and feel like stretching your bones in a beautiful forest, don’t miss this place . Otherwise, you can return back to the city because there are still many cool Portland activities await you there. 

GO ON A FOOD TOUR AROUND NORTHWEST DISTRICT

After you are done exploring the wooded area, head out to the opulent Northwest district. It is mainly famous for vintage shops, lovely family-owned stores with handmade produce, stylish cafes, and gourmet restaurants. Travelers who prefer to travel slowly  can easily spend here an entire day, checking terrific eats and shops. 

Here, as on a few other cool streets in Portland, you can go on a self-guided food tour, popping in almost any cafe or restaurant. All of the dining establishments have delicious food and a unique vibe.

Some of the most famous ones are:

– Elephants Delicatessen . A self serve establishment with incredibly delish and healthy options. Soups, sandwiches, cheeses, pastas, pizzas, a high assortment of salads, and many other foods are on sale here.

– The Dragonfly Coffee House . A cozy coffee shop with lots of books to read, plush armchairs to relax in, and many flavorful treats, lattes, and teas.

– Ken’s Artisan Bakery . The best bakery in town that sells always fresh bread, croissants, and pastries. Try one of their famous tarts or cinnamon roll.

– Salt & Straw Ice cream . A local ice cream chain with so many unique flavors to choose from! There are actually four stores with this ice cream around Portland. But if you happen to be in this neighborhood only, don’t miss this place.

If you are eager to get the most of your time, do a walking 3-hour long Northwest neighborhood food and drink tour .

4 Perfect Days in Portland Itinerary 

Day 3 in portland .

If you have 3 or even 4 days in Portland, it’s a good time to explore the outskirts of the city since there are a few hidden gems not to miss! I offer you to discover the historic architecture, natural areas, cliffside catholic sanctuary, old hotel, famous Portland breweries, quirky eateries, and much, much more.

The third day though is packed with a lot of activities. You may need to push them to the following day. 

START YOUR MORNING ON THE MISSISSIPPI AVENUE

On your third day in Portland, you can start a day with a trip to Mississippi Avenue. This one of the most popular streets in Portland started to get its trendy feel in the 90s. Back then it was somehow attracting modish souls who were buying condos and apartments and moving boutiques in. Today, it’s home to many vibrant shops and unique restaurants, and the street is always busy.

Foodies can come here for the food crawl, spend literally all day long, and not even try everything.

But besides eateries, you can also pass a few hours pleasantly strolling the avenue, checking out local businesses, and taking pretty photos. With vintage architecture and wondrous Victorian-era houses (like John Palmer House, for example,) Mississippi Avenue is full of spots for Instagram-worthy shots.

Come here in the morning to have breakfast in a well-known brunch destination Gravy which specializes in biscuits and gravy. Next to it, there is a Land Gallery – a local eclectic shop with print art, gifts, shirts, souvenirs, and jewelry. Oh, and don’t forget to grab a blueberry basil bourbon (or any other interesting flavor) donut from another famous place Blue Star Donuts .   

VISIT THE GROTTO

From Mississippi Avenue, take a bus or uber to a place of peace, prayer, and natural beauty. Grotto or as the official name goes ‘ the National Sanctuary of Our Sorrow Mother’ is a 62-acre site with a rock-carved grotto with a replica of Mary holding the crucified body of Jesus.

Additionally to the grotto, there is a church, sanctuary, gardens, meditation room, and even hiking trails. A 10-story elevator ride delivers visitors to the top of the nearby mountain with incredible views and stunning chapel. 

It’s really nice to walk around here, check the shrine, views, meditate, and reflect. Even if you are not Catholic or Christian, you can still realize a divine feel to this place. On weekends, it gets busy but on weekdays during the morning and early afternoon the sanctuary feels peaceful and uplifting.

If you happen to visit Portland for Christmas, come here to see the Christmas lights. They lit up the entire territory, including trees and grotto and it makes it look like a movie set. Grotto’s website has information on mass schedules, events, and hours. It is a truly fascinating place to visit!

GO TO ROCKY BUTTE NATURAL AREA 

Rocky Butte natural area is a small wonderful park with a lookout platform. There, you get a fantastic 360 view of the Columbia River, Portland’s city airport, Mt St. Helen and Mt. Hood. And it feels like the city is laid out in front of you.

If you haven’t seen any of Portland’s city views yet, combine a visit here with a trip to Grotto. With the information standing on the top, you can see exactly what mountains you are looking at.

The only downside of this site is the number of people who come here. Don’t go on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday if you want any sense of privacy. By the way, the cheapest and quickest way to get here from Grotto is by bus.

VISIT MCMENAMIN KENNEDY SCHOOL

From Grotto and Rocky Butte natural area, where you can end up spending a few hours, hop on a bus and proceed to the Concordia neighborhood.

It’s famous for its event center and hotel which used to be an elementary school. If you love visiting architecturally beautiful structures full of history where in addition you can stop for a drink, a movie, or a swim then add this school  to your Portland itinerary list.

So as Kennedy School is a hotel today, you can spend a night there. However, you are also welcome to visit as an outside guest.

Grab a beer or a glass of wine in the fancy upstairs bar, enjoy a movie in their theater, soak in their ceramic saltwater pool, dine in a fancy restaurant, or simply walk around the school. Photos and murals of the Kennedy school’s past tell the history and add some mystery to this place.

When we visited, we really regretted we didn’t have our swimsuits. For a very symbolic price (similar to the price of a latte) we could soak in warm waters in the scenic setting. But instead, we walked around for about one hour and checked out all sites.

The Kennedy School is hiding behind the trees and shrubbery, so you can be sure you’ll have a peaceful atmosphere. 

STROLL THROUGH BEVERLY CLEARLY SCULPTURE GARDEN

Beverly Clearly Sculpture garden in Grant Park is home to bronze sculptures of Ramona, Henry, and the dog Ribsy who are beloved characters in books of author Beverly Cleary. If you are a fan of these books or visiting Portland with children, it’s a good place to visit on the way to your next destination. Children will definitely have a blast. 

The garden is really small. But with a cool sculpture area and fountain nearby it becomes a nice spot on a hot summer day.

There is also a seasonal pool in the park where the general public can swim during the afternoon hours. 

VISIT HOLLYWOOD DISTRICT

While the Hollywood district in Portland doesn’t have anything in common with Hollywood boulevard in Los Angeles, it still can be a cool area for a quick visit.

Located only a few streets away from Grant Park, it makes it easy to get here. Since the whole neighborhood is rather small, you can easily roam around it in a few hours. For a really nice acquaintance with another Portland neighborhood full of greenery and lovely homes, start your walk from the north. That area is quiet and calm and you can have a very pleasant walk there under the trees.

Should you be hungry, there are a few places to stop for a meal. Hollywood district is famous for very good Asian food restaurants, so in case you were craving Asian food, the choice is big. Gado Gado family-style restaurant serves very good Indonesian food. Shandong offers Northern Chinese cuisine. The nearby Bluefin Sushi Bar has sushi staples with sashimi and specialty rolls.

Portland’s Hollywood district is also known for its historic 1920s-era Hollywood Theater. If you have a desire and time, come watch a movie here. There are always some classic films, screenings, festivals, and various events that get featured here. This is a perfect place to catch a film in a superbly comfortable environment with relaxing seating. Admissions are cheap, food is good and the building is beautiful.

DO A BREWERY CRAWL 

Oh, famous breweries of Portland… they are so famous that many people outside the US know its beers. And that’s not surprising. With nearly 90 percent of US hops coming from Washington state and Northern Oregon, it is easy enough for the state to be a perfect spot for craft beers. In fact, Portland is the number one city in the world with the highest number of breweries in the city. Visiting Portland and not trying the local beer is the same as visiting Istanbul and not tasting kebab.

That being said, you should definitely check out at least one (better a few) breweries. For that, go brewery hopping on your own or join a group tour. Here is an excellent post on all breweries in Portland if you prefer to go on your own. And here are the top 10 beer tours around Portland , some of them offer brewery visits by bike.

Day 4 in Portland 

Spend half a day in edgefield.

Edgefield is a beautiful destination resort in Eastern Oregon that is home to a soothing, quiet Ruby’s Spa, Winery & Tasting Room, Distillery Bar, and lovely lodge. It’s easy to forget about the time here and spend one long day.

Come to see restored buildings with cozy interiors and a charming garden with a few hiking trails, play a round of golf, listen to live music, and, of course, sample local wines in the winery. After that, taste great food, get a massage and soak in a pool at the Ruby’s Spa . 

The best way to reach Edgefield (if not renting a car) is by bus. It makes a stop right by the McMenamins Edgefield resort. 

GO ON A DAY TRIP TO OREGON WATERFALLS

Along with Seattle and Los Angeles , Portland is another West Coast city where you can experience nature (a lot of it!) without going far. Just 20-30 miles east and south of Portland gorgeous waterfalls, trails, forests, and valleys await to be discovered.

One of the most spectacular road trips in America along the Columbia River has its beginning near Portland too. If you don’t have much time to drive all the distance, go and at least see stunning waterfalls. My guide talks about many stops on the Columbia River Gorge drive, including waterfalls. For this reason, you should even rent a car to venture out. Multiple companies also offer various tours if renting a car is not an option. Those who are really short on time can even join a flight tour .

By the way, for the car rental, since the airport is located in the city limits and Columbia River Gorge drive starts right by it, renting a car will save so much of your time!

In any case, no matter what you decide, a visit to Portland cannot be complete without a trip to the incredible Columbia River Gorge. You can skip many suggestions on this itinerary but try to find time for Oregon waterfalls. It’s one of the most beautiful destinations in America! 

VISIT WILLAMETTE VALLEY

Willamette Valley is known mainly for the production of the premier Pinot noir wines. However, besides wines as the main reason for people to visit, there are tons of other things to do in the area. Biking, hiking, visiting art galleries, riding a hot air balloon are just some of them. With a charming Inn, it is possible to stay overnight, especially if planning a weekend trip to Portland.

The majority of wineries are located in very close proximity to the city, so reaching them won’t take a lot of time. See this map of the Willamette Valley region to get an idea of where wineries, restaurants, lodges, and spots with activities are located. 

If you wish, you can spend your 4th day of Portland itinerary only here. If not, then come for a few hours to taste wines and learn about the production process. In case if having limited time and preferring someone to show you around, join a group tour.

We enjoyed a GreatOregonWineTour company that had stellar reviews and led a very informative tour. I know they are offering tours through Viator and through GetYourGuide . If you are interested, compare prices and see where it’s cheaper. But there are many other fantastic companies to go on a tour with. I highlighted for our future visit BackcountryWine tours and Insiders Wine Tour .  

Where to Stay in Portland 

Portland has a wide array of accommodation options available. From hostels for budget travelers to chic opulent hotels, everyone can find something on any budget. Yet for the most authentic experience (in my humble opinion,) Victorian-style Inns and privately owned guest houses can make your stay that extra special. So, if you haven’t decided yet where to stay and plan to spend a weekend or all 4 days in Portland, check these options out:

Line and The Rose Victorian Guest House – if you are looking for a luxury stay in Portland and want to stay in a historic vintage home, this Victorian guest house is not to miss! Not only it is located in a very good location close to many restaurants and transit, but it has a magical atmosphere mixed with delightful service. Elegant and comfortable rooms have everything you need for an unforgettable stay.

Check prices and availability for Line and The Rose Victorian Guest House on Booking.com

Hotel Vintage – an upscale trendy hotel in the center of downtown Portland. With modern unique design details, chic suites, a pool, restaurant with local wines, and craft beers, this hotel is a great place to stay if besides the city explorations you would like to have a hotel getaway.

Check prices and availability for Hotel Vintage on Booking.com

McMenamins Crystal Hotel – for a comfortable and top-notch stay for a budget-friendly price you have to check this quirky hotel in downtown Portland. The decor in all rooms here has been influenced by the show ‘From Blondie to The Flaming Lips’ which is performed in The Crystal Ballroom just across the road.

Their spotless rooms, lovely indoor swimming pool, music-themed art gallery, lovely restaurant, own selection of crafted beers, and outstanding service make it one of the best hotels to stay in Portland.

Check prices and availability for McMenamins Crystal Hotel on Booking.com

HI – Portland Northwest Hostel – an excellent choice for travelers on a tight budget or those who are looking for a “community” type of experience. Located not far from the famous Mississippi Avenue, it has clean, comfortable rooms with all the necessary amenities.

Based on excellent reviews, this hostel has outstanding service and the staff makes you feel like staying with friends. Check reviews and prices here .

Check prices and availability for HI – Portland Northwest Hostel on Booking.com

Don’t feel like any of these accommodation options is right for you? Click here to browse other hotels in Portland . 

Planning your perfect weekend Portland itinerary can take some time. There are so many things to do in the city! But if you follow my tips, you’ll surely have an amazing trip to Portland!

If traveling from outside the US, don’t forget to take care of your travel insurance to know you are covered for any event. We personally like to stick to SafetyWing, click here to get a quote from them . 

Are you planning a 1, 2, 3, or 4 days in Portland itinerary? Or maybe you are planning to spend more days in this city? Have you visited Portland before? Share in the comments! 

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Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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I love Portland. I work here as a wedding photographer. Lots of couples come here for the weekend to elope. I help them find all the best views of the city for some interesting wedding photos. It’s a lot of fun.

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Scenario #1

-fly in Seattle, 2 nights/3 days in city for museums and seeing the city;

-leave to see Olympic National forest via Port Angeles and check out Forks and stay there one night (I loved the lush forests and coastline in Twilight but that's just a movie and I might be disappointed! )

-drive south on 101 to Seaside and and Canonn Beach and we would love to spend 2-3 days or is too long there? Nice to chill out and relax there;

-drive to Portland and stay a couple of 2 nights and see the city.

-drive back to Seattle to catch return flight .

Scenario #2

Hit the same spots in reverse by arriving in Portland!

We want to see and be in nature, chill out and relax in beautiful places, love to stay away from crowds, love little charming spots appreciated by locals. Please feel free to make suggestions as I'm not sure of driving distances, how long to stay in certain spots and if our ideas are not realistic in terms of what we would like to experience!

While you're enroute through Tacoma, take a few hours and visit the Museum of Glass...really special!

2-3 days in Seaside where I am is not too long at all! This is a beautiful area of the northern coast to explore. Cannon Beach has Haystack Rock, Ecola State Park, Indian Beach and a quaint downtown area with nice restaurants and shops. In Seaside there is the promenade to walk or jog with beautiful views of Tillamook Head. The Gilbert District has antique shops and restaurants and the downtown area has ice cream shops, games, etc. There is also a small aquarium on the prom that is informative and lots of fun. A couple of good websites for this area:

http://www.cannon-beach.net

http://www.seasideor.com

There is also Astoria, about 20 minutes away from Seaside. It is #2 right now on the Budget Travel website for The Coolest Small Town in America. Astoria is right on the Columbia River and is full of charm and history. What kind of lodging are you interested in in? Bed and Breakfast Inns, oceanfront hotels, close to downtown?

http://www.oldoregon.com is a nice website for the Astoria area. Have a great trip and enjoy your travel planning! :)

Hi Eugene -

I followed your advice and posting on the Washington forum. I think you are probably right about Forks being a letdown and the weather in May might not work for us! I researched the Mt. Hood-Columbia River Gorge Loop in other forums and it sounds perfect for us! We love that kind of stuff and I am certain my husband would really love exploring this area!

Hey Syrahgirl-

Love your suggestions especially Astoria since I hadn't know about it! We are open to ideas for accomodations! I haven't started the research on the hotels. I guess, once I have a do-able itineray, I'll start looking at hotel reviews. Budget is probably around $100 to $140/night. If you have suggestions, feel free to share!

Thank you ++

Yes, definitely don't miss The Gorge! It is a magnificent area with so much to see and do! I also agree with Astoria. It is a great little town. Make sure to visit the Maritime Museum there.

It's Olympic National Park, not Olympic National Forest. I looked, but you have not posted on the ONP forum yet, so I will address your trip here.

In mid May only Hurricane Ridge and the other mountain areas will be under snow; the beaches and the rain forests will be stunning at that time of year. The northern portion of the park is in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains and is much, much sunnier than people think. Mid May should have a mix of sunny and cloudy weather, but you could luck out and have dazzling sunshine. There are beautiful wildflowers in the park in May, especially trilliums, and, in the approaches to Hurricane Ridge, fragrant alpine phlox, glacier lilies and avalanche lilies.

You can rent snowshoes at the Visitor Center at Hurricane Ridge and snowshoe up there. It's easy; if you can walk, you can snowshoe. The views will be sublime, and the early wildflowers are otherworldly. The road will be kept clear and safe.

The Hoh Rain Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is at its loveliest, greenest, and most mysterious in spring. Just watch out for protective mother elk. Rialto Beach and Second Beach will be gorgeous, as will Lake Crescent.

For descriptions of day hikes, pictures, maps, and tide tables, look at www.kaleberg.com. Also look at the http://www.nps.gov webcams for real time glimpses of Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent. That should get you fired up!

In downtown Astoria, check out The Hotel Elliott or The new Comodore Hotel. You can walk to several wonderful restaurants from these hotels. We just dined at Fulio's a couple of nights ago, it's better than ever! Loved the Grilled Caesar Salad, the Bruschetta and the Veal Picatta there. Silver Salmon Grille, T Paul's Urban Cafe, Drina Daisy and Clemente's are all in this area. Another consideration would be the Holiday Inn Express which is right on the Columbia River and trolley run. The Bridgewater Bistro is not to miss down by the waterfront. :)

I wouldn't think that mid-May would be bad, especially on weekdays, but if there are crowds, they'll be in Seaside and Cannon Beach. Gearhart, Manzanita, and Wheeler fit better into my definition of quaint and charming. Still, Cannon Beach is about as cute a beach town as you'll ever see, and with Haystack Rock towering over the sand and Ecola State Park just to the north, well worth a stop. Can't say the same for Seaside though; it's more the Oregon version of Santa Monica and Venice Beach rolled into one.

Okay, since you asked for comments on this, "if our ideas are not realistic in terms of what we would like to experience," I'm gonna buck the tide a little. Because, while I love the town, I'm not sure how Astoria fits into "quaint little towns... nature.... beautiful.... little charming spots" either. And if a primary goal is to see the coast, I'm also not sure why you'd choose to stay 4 miles upriver from it. Especially when your budget will probably allow a place with an ocean view.

If you're coming into Oregon from the Olympic Peninsula, plan a couple hours for Cape Disappointment State Park, outside of Ilwaco, WA. The Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center there is worth your time, besides the fact that it sits high on a cliff with the best-of-any view of the mouth of the Columbia River. Views from the park's North Head Lighthouse are also quite spectacular.

What mistletoe says.

Given that Oregon coast towns are all *quite* small compared with southern CA, if I had to describe some of the northern coastal towns in terms of your area, I'd equate Seaside with "Pomona" or maybe "Ontario". Whereas Cannon Beach would be closer to "Claremont".

I do agree that 3 days on the north Oregon coast is not too much,especially if you luck out and the weather is warm and dry. It often is in May . . . of course it's often grey and gloomy too or plain ol' rainy ;-)

Although I enjoy Astoria I certainly would not opt to stay there in either of the previously suggested downtown hotels with no river view! You might as well stay in an inland city, in my opinion.

I am intrigued by your comments Mistleto:

<And if a primary goal is to see the coast, I'm also not sure why you'd choose to stay 4 miles upriver from it. Especially when your budget will probably allow a place with an ocean view>

I'm betting you could find beachfront in Seaside within your budget (check Lanai at the Cove), but the place I specifically had in mind is Sunset Surf Motel in Manzanita: http://www.sunsetsurfocean.com/ . It's across the street from the beach, but has a full-on beach/ocean view. I've not stayed there myself, but several regulars posters here often recommend it.

Another I'd suggest you consider is Ecola Creek Lodge in Cannon Beach: http://www.cannonbeachlodge.com/v2/new.html . You won't have a beach/ocean view there, but it's a cozy little place a short walk from the downtown area, and accesses the quiet, more scenic northern section of the beach.

That all said, a place I think you'd have the best experience of the coast is at The Fireside Motel in Yachats: http://www.firesidemotel.com/Fireside_Motel/ . It shares what I think is the best setting of any lodgings on the Oregon coast. The issue is, it's on the central coast (which most here think to be more scenic than the north). If you could fit 1 night in the north and 2 at The Fireside into your itinerary, I doubt you'd regret it. But if you've got only 2 nights for the Oregon coast, spend 'em both in the north.

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The Ultimate Portland to Seattle Road Trip Itinerary

Posted by Liz Dengler October 05, 2021 Updated September 01, 2023

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

The trip from Portland, Oregon to Seattle, Washington is simple: hop on I-5 north, and you’ll be there in under four hours, even with a little traffic.

It’s only 180 miles of interstate between the two cities — and even on the interstate, the scenery is beautiful.

However, if you’re hoping for a little more adventure, there’s a longer and more scenic Portland to Seattle road trip route that takes you through some of the most interesting areas along the coast.

Related Read:   When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Seattle?

Portland to Seattle Road Trip by Segment

The suggested route below zigzags a bit and adds quite a bit of distance. However, you’ll also get to experience highlights along the coast. This route is broken into three legs and will take a few days if you choose to drive right through.

But it’s it’s well worth taking your time and experiencing what each of these stops has to offer. This Portland to Seattle road trip itinerary is a whole vacation on its own —though you could use it to connect separate vacation in both cities for a seriously awesome PNW getaway!

Related Read:   The 10 Best Scenic Drives in Washington

Segment 1: Portland to Cannon Beach Area

This first segment is about 114 miles and has two-and-a-half hours of driving if you do it all at once. However, given all there is to do along this leg, it’s worth taking at least an overnight along this segment to see it all.

• Distance: 122 miles
• Drive time without stops : 2 hours, 40 mins

Highlight 1: Jam on Hawthorn

Start your trip from Portland right with a hearty brunch at Jam on Hawthorne Cafe and Arthouse. This Portland icon has been voted “Portland’s Best Brunch” for three years by the reader’s choice awards from the Willamette Week newspaper, from 2018–2020. Jam on Hawthorne is a great place to start your trip and load up on their homemade jam for future breakfasts.

The food is divine with unique twists on all your favorite classics. Try the vegan oatmeal chai blueberry pancakes or the the corned beef hash (a local favorite).

Highlight 2: Tillamook

A visit to Tillamook is not just about the cheese; however, a stop by the Tillamook Creamery is still a must-do. Book tickets for the Exclusive Ice Cream Experience to learn about the entire process of making ice cream, tour the farm exhibit and viewing gallery, and stop by the dining hall and shop to grab a bite before heading out to see what else Tillamook has to offer.

Explore trails by hiking and biking around the area or go kayaking or surfing with whales and seals. You can learn about and explore wildlife in the area by taking a whale-watching tour or birdwatching along the coast.

Explore the history of Tillamook by visiting the Quilt Trail and Textile Center, or take part in any number of events and festivals  the city hosts each year. You could easily spend a weekend here, so give it an extra day if you like playing outside.

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Highlight 3: Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a perfect spot to wrap up this segment, where iconic Haystack Rock rises out of the ocean as one of Oregon’s more recognizable landmarks. Head out to explore tide pools, view the puffins that roost on the rock from early-spring to mid-summer, or see the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge .

But of course, there’s more to Cannon Beach than one rock. Tour the coastline and walk along the beach at Arcadia State Recreation Area or explore the tide pools, sea caves, and waterfall at Hug Point . Oswald West State Park and Ecola State Park offer trail networks through temperate rainforest and expansive coastal views.

Related read: 25 Stunning Hikes on the Oregon Coast

Segment 1: Where to Stay

It’s almost unfair that there are so many great stops in this segment, given the (probably) limited time you likely have to drive it. So deciding where to stay can be tricky, especially since there are plenty of places to stay along this segment. In Tillamook, pick from any number of hotels or Airbnbs. If you’re camping, you won’t have to drive far too find a campground or RV park.

One of the best camping options is the Harborview Inn and RV Park on the north end of Tillamook Bay. It has 18 rooms and 31 RV lots. Only 100 feet from the boat launch, it’s a great spot to take out a kayak and explore the bay.

Further along the coast, you can book a stay at any of the campgrounds in the numerous state parks. Cannon Beach has a plethora of options ranging from campgrounds to oceanfront lodging, luxury hotels, and vacation home rentals. Tolovana Inn is a highly rated budget-friendly hotel in Cannon Beach that’s as close to the sand as physically possible – you can’t beat the views.

Segment 2: Cannon Beach to Mount Saint Helens

The way this segment is routed may be a pretty roundabout way of getting there, but this 140-mile, 3-hour journey will take you past some pretty interesting historical landmarks.

From the coast, you’ll wind up to the mouth of the Columbia River, along its southern shore, and finally, cross into Washington on your way to Mount Saint Helens. This is the best section of the route for hiking, rock climbing, and water sports (not to mention breweries).

• Distance: 142 miles
• Drive time without stops : 3 hours

Highlight 1: Astoria

Astoria is a small city on the Columbia River. Start your visit here at the Astoria Column , a 125-foot-tall tower with a 164-step narrow spiral staircase leading to amazing views of the city and waterfront. The tower is decorated with artwork chronologically depicting the region’s history.

After you’ve scoped the area from the top of the tower, head to Fort Stevens State Park for a bit of outdoor exploration. The park is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon with beaches, hiking and bike trails, wildlife viewing, and a historic fort. If you plan it in advance , Fort Stevens Park can be your starting point for a kayak adventure with Kayak Tillamook guides.

Be sure to check out the remains of the Peter Iredale , a shipwreck that ran ashore in 1906. Then round out your trip to Astoria by visiting the Astoria-Megler Bridge and the Columbia River Maritime Museum. The latter tells about the history of the region and has a super-interesting map of the more than 50 shipwrecks around the region. Feel free to pop into one of several breweries to wet your whistle along the way.

Related Read:   12 Spots to See Gorgeous Fall Colors in Oregon

Highlight 2: Lewis and Clark Bridge

From Astoria, follow Route 30 inland along the Columbia River. Eventually, you’ll reach and cross the Lewis and Clark Bridge into Washington. When the bridge was built in 1930, it was the longest cantilevered bridge in the United States, originally serving as a private toll bridge.

Washington State eventually bought the bridge and renamed the Lewis and Clark Bridge in 1965 in honor of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It’s especially impressive at night, so consider spending most of your day in Astoria to time it right.

Highlight 3: Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument

The last stop on today’s Portland to Seattle road trip is Mount Saint Helens, the most infamous volcano on the West Coast due to the historic eruption on May 18, 1980. The massive eruption was triggered by an earthquake and subsequent avalanche, which released enough pressure to allow the volcano’s pent-up gasses to erupt.

Head to the Mount Saint Helens Visitor Center to learn more about the area and history, then head out on the trails to explore the region on foot. Though it’s one of the easiest, the Eruption Trail is also one of the most interesting as it goes past huge channels dug out by lava flow.

Segment 2: Where to Stay

Astoria has plenty of amazing places to stay, from hotels and Airbnbs to local campgrounds. And there are plenty of options along the north shore of the Colombia River that offer stunning views and a relaxing stay. Check out the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa to add a little pampering to your road trip.

Near Mount Saint Helens, lodging is almost exclusively campgrounds. However, there are a few options if you’re looking for something indoors. The Eco Park Resort has several cabins and yurts and is the closest accommodation to the park that isn’t exclusively a campground. There are, however, a few options further west along Silver Lake and in Castle Rock that are still close enough to the monument for a quick hike or sunrise photo safari.

Segment 3: Mount Saint Helens to Seattle

From Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument to Seattle with side trips is about 208 miles and will take around four hours when done as a straight shot. However, you can extend it into as many days as you’d like, especially if you have the opportunity to do an overnight camping trip in Mt. Rainier. Don’t rush, and you’ll notice plenty of beautiful sights. It’s mostly side trips – places where you’ll have divert from the most direct route – until you reach Seattle.

• Distance: 222 miles
• Drive time without stops : 5 hours, 30 mins

Side Trip 1: Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier has been a bucket-list challenge for mountaineers for hundreds of years; the first recorded climb on the mountain didn’t happen until 1870. Soon after (in 1899), it was established as a national park, becoming the nation’s fifth. You can hike on an extensive 275-mile trail network or explore by bike on the park roads.

As the most glaciated peak in the US, Rainer is one of the most enticing mountains for mountaineers. If you have the experience to take on the challenge, book a few extra days for a summit. You can also take guided mountaineering classes from three professional area mountain schools . Before you get started, making sure you pay the fee  before you arrive and nail down a mountaineering/climbing permit from the Park Service.

Side Trip 2: Tacoma

The next stop on this tour is the north end of Tacoma, Washington. Point Defiance Park is a great place to unwind after a long drive and is a good spot to bring the family or older travelers not big on epic hikes. it’s also an excellent day trip out of Seattle.

The park has about 10 miles of trails, including an ADA accessible trail, two 5-mile drive loops, and a ferry dock and playground. If you have some more time, head to the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.  The big complex has two aquariums, a zoo, and several botanical gardens. You can take a private garden tour with the resident horticulturalist, catch an animal feeding, or sit in on Q&A sessions with zookeepers who take care of polar bears, wolves, and tropical lagoons.

Related Read:   9 Best Hikes in Washington State for Epic Outdoor Adventures

Highlight 1: Seattle

Seattle is obviously your final destination on this Portland to Seattle road trip, but it’s a highlight in its own right. From touristy attractions to woodsy explorations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the hip city.

If you’re in the heart of Seattle and want to spend a day living your best tourist life, be sure to check out the Space Needle, the iconic feature defining the Seattle skyline. Book a ticket to head up the tower, or even enjoy cocktails at the Loupe Lounge . Then wake up early the next morning to get to Pike Place Market to watch the fish-tossers or grab some freshly baked scones and coffees and take a stroll along the water.

After some great urban exploration, pull out the hiking shoes, drive a bit out of the city, and check out some of the fantastic hikes that the Seattle area has to offer.

Segment 3: Where to Stay

Staying in Mount Rainer National Park is a great experience, especially for the convenience of waking up in the park. Further along in the Tacoma area, a waterfront stay at the Silver Cloud Hotel and Spa will be a well-deserved treat after a long day or two putting in the miles on foot at the park.

Another great option is the Chinaberry Hill Inn , located a bit closer to downtown Tacoma. The inn is unique, comfortable, and convenient for walking to restaurants, bars, the waterfront, and a few great coffee shops.

Once you’re in Seattle, there are so many places to choose from for a relaxing stay that it’s barely worth making suggestions. Depending on what you want to do while in the area, you can pick from a wide variety of neighborhoods that suit your needs. If you just want the best of the best in Airbnb rentals, this list will get you to the right place. If you want a true Seattle experience, opt for a stay on a refurbished and romantic houseboat .

Related read : 10 Serene Cabin Rentals Near Seattle, Washington

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Seen in: Oregon , Road Trips , Washington , West

Posted by Liz Dengler

Liz is a freelance writer and editor who lives on the road. Literally. Home is a cozy van parked wherever the views are stunning and the data is adequate. Always exploring, wherever she ends up, you can be sure she will be out hiking, biking, skiing, and paragliding.

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Road Trip from Portland to Redwood National Park

The road trip from Portland to Redwood National Park offers stunning scenery all year round, from famous Oregon national forests to charming small towns and historic Pacific Northwest cities. You will also have the opportunity to admire the sunny Pacific coasts on the way.

The 350-mile trip from Portland to Redwood National Park takes 6 hours and 30 minutes to drive. On the coast, you will see Pacific City, Newport and Gold Beach while Salem, Eugene and Oregon Caves National Monument are the notable stops inland.

With so many different things to see and awe-inspiring sights to admire on the way whether you follow the coast or dip inland for a scenic drive, below are the best routes to follow, our suggested places to stop, amazing things to see and the best time to visit.

How far is Redwood National Park from Portland, Oregon and how long will the road trip take?

The Direct Route is the most direct at 6 hours and 30 minutes, and 350 miles. This route takes you down the Columbia River Highway and allows for an overnight stop just an hour north of Salem in quaint McMinnville and then passing through Salem, Eugene and Grants Pass.

The Coastal Route offers a more laid-back drive with great scenery and stops, and takes a little over 9 hours to drive the 430-mile trip. Stops on this option include Rockaway Beach, Pacific City, Charleston and Klamath and it is a great option if you have a little more time to complete the trip.

No matter what route you choose to travel, this will be a road trip that will be unforgettable. We recommend putting aside at least three days to enjoy all the attractions and landmarks on the way.

Best road trip route from Portland to Redwood National Park

There are two great options for the drive from Portland to the Redwood National Drive, depending on your interests and timing. Which route is the best will depend on whether you would like to enjoy coastal or forested scenery and the time on your hands.

Depending on your timing and travel style, both routes offer beautiful views and places to explore along the way. If you are looking to maximize time, the Direct Route will take almost 3 hours less than the coastal route, but still offer some interesting towns to visit en route to Redwood National Park.

The Coastal Route, on the other hand, will take you to the incredibly beautiful Pacific coasts and you will drive through some of the most scenic Oregon towns and beaches as you make your way to the giant redwood trees in California.

The Direct Route

Leave Portland along Interstate 5 (I-5) South with the option of heading onto OR-99E towards McMinnville and stopping for the night and exploring the town's breweries, wineries and coffee shops.

From McMinnville head back towards interstate and head towards Salem, Oregon, where you can stop in the city and walk along the river or for a bite to eat before continuing along to Eugene.

Here, you will have the option to make detours to Willamette National Forest. Head down south on the interstate towards Cottage Grove and Roseburgh, where you can visit Umpqua National Forest, if you aren't pressed for time.

Drive through Wolf Creek Park and past Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest to cross into California and reach your destination in Redwood National Park.

The Coastal Route

To take the Coastal Route, leave Portland and head West on US-26W to OR-6W and then hit the coastal US-101. You will soon reach Rockaway Beach where you can stop for the first Pacific northwest beach views and explore the town.

Continue down the highway with the option of stopping at Tillamook Creamery and then spending the night in Pacific City where you can discover the beach and Kiwanda State Park.

Following the coast, head south to Charleston, a quaint small town with lots of maritime activities and food options, making it a great place to break up the trip before the final 3-hour stretch along US-101 to Klamath and then Redwood National Forest.

Best places to stop between Portland, Oregon and Redwood National Park

Both routes offer plenty of options for an overnight stay to break up the drive and explore a new Pacific Northwest town. Below are some of our recommendations.

Enjoy a scenic and relaxed stay at McMinnville

The Direct Route offers the opportunity to spend the night in the charming town of McMinnville, about an hour into the journey. After enjoying the Columbia Rivers viewpoints and waterfalls along your direct route, this is a great place to stop yet only 5 hours on to the destination.

McMinnville is famed for the wine produced in the area and it has a wonderful, relaxed feel with plenty of coffee shops and parks, which means this is a fabulous place to stop and relax on your way.

While staying in McMinnville, we recommend staying at the stylish Atticus Hotel . This beautiful hotel proudly boasts a fireplace in every room giving it that luxurious feel you may crave after a day of waterfall-chasing. Some of the rooms even offer balconies to take in the views.

The hotel offers amazing amenities such as locally crafted items such as bath products, furnishings and art. With an upscale restaurant and a fantastic bar to enjoy your favorite cocktail at, you won't be needing anything else during your stay.

If you'd like to visit the charming sights of McMinnville, the hotel offers free bikes to take a spin around this lovely town, and you can pick up a picnic to take with you from the Hotels ‘grab-n-go' section to enjoy your day to the fullest.

Stopover in coastal delight Pacific City

The scenic Coastal Route offers an abundance of small ocean towns to stop along your drive. About 2 hours into the journey is the charming town of Pacific City, a beautiful, chilled, white-sand beach town with a laid-back vibe that is a great place to recharge after a day of exploring.

There are beautiful sea views, yet the town - like much of this area of the Pacific coast - is surrounded by cliffs and woodland scenery, a breathtaking combination. You might even want to stay here for a couple of days and explore the beautiful area, using Pacific City as your base.

While in Pacific City we recommend staying at Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa . The hotel's spa and wellness center includes an outdoor saltwater hot tub with amazing views you won't experience elsewhere.

When you are done admiring the scenery and pampering yourself, you can enjoy a meal in the hotel's exquisite restaurant where the food comes right from the ocean and local farms.

On winter evenings, you may get to enjoy the wonderful sight of the Semidi Islands Aleutian Cackling Geese that make the long trip from Alaska to the Pacific Coast each year, flying over the hotel to roost out on Haystack Rock - which guests can see out in the ocean from their rooms.

Where to stay when you reach Redwood National Park

On your final stretch to Redwood National Park, we have a couple of options. Our first recommendation would be to stay at the Ashland Hills Hotel .

While a visit to this beautiful, 1970's inspired hotel adds two hours extra driving time to your journey, however on this relatively short journey it is worth it for the luxury and relaxation on offer as the Redwood area doesn't have many hotels of such standard. Travelers may want to head straight here from Pacific City, then rise early for a full day of exploring Redwood National Park.

However, if you are just looking for somewhere to rest your head closer to the Redwood, then the Holiday Inn in Klamath is a great option - it is modern in style, has a pool, and is only 10 minutes or so from the North point of Redwood.

Things to see on a road trip from Portland to Redwood National Park

There is no shortage of options for places to stop, activities to try and beautiful scenery along each route of this drive. Below we list some recommendations along the way.

• Columbia River Highway - A jaw-dropping stretch along the Columbia River, whether you just want to soak up the scenery as you drive along, or search out every waterfall you can find, you won't be disappointed.
• Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum - A vast museum dedicated to all things related to air and space, in which you can while away a whole day. If time is sparse, you can pre-book a one-hour tour. Includes a 3D theatre.
• The Eyrie Vineyards - Start your overnight stay in McMinnville with a tour and tasting at this Pinot Gris/Noir family-run Vineyard.
• Wings and Waves Water Park - Release your inner child at this epic water park including a wave pool, interactive areas, slides, with great families and plenty of food and beverage options.
• River Front City Park - This beautiful park sits on the Willamette River and boats a glorious old-fashioned carousel. A short walk south through the park leads you to the Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge, and the park's “Giant Globe” sculpture.
• Cascades Raptor Center - View over 40 different birds of prey who are caringly looked after in this wonderful rehabilitation center and animal hospital *Strictly no animals on site or left in cars.
• Mount Pisgah Arboretum - A great place to stretch your legs on your trip, and if feeling adventurous you can take 2-3 hours 4.5-mile hike for amazing views.
• Oregon Caves National Monument - Take a tour through these fascinating natural caves in the Siskiyou mountains; over the years, acid mixing with water on the marble rocks has created the most wonderful sight. Book ahead and bring a coat.

• Oregon Coast Scenic Railway - Enjoy a trip on an old-fashioned steam train and take in the sights of Rockaway as you go.
• Rockaway Big Tree Trailhead - A Jurassic-style park with colossal size trees. Be sure to take it slowly to take it in, there is so much to see.
• Tillamook Creamery - If cheese is your thing, a stop here should be on the list, a self-guided tour allows you to learn about the heritage of the factory, whilst stopping to enjoy the delights. Top tip - a midweek visit allows you to see the factory in action.
• Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area - A stunning sea-facing state park with vast sand dunes, climb to the top for the most incredible views. Reviews suggest visiting at low tide to discover some incredible sea life on the shore.
• Neskowin Ghost Forest -This majestic patch of the Oregon coast is a sight to behold. Remnant stubs of the Sitka Spruce Forest eerily lie near the famous Proposal Rock. A visit at low tide is highly recommended.
• Devil's Punch Bowl - This natural rock formation at Otter Rock is an incredible sight, try your luck at entering the bowl but only when the tide is at its very lowest, or just enjoy the incredible scenery of the waves thundering dramatically through the natural wonder.
• Umpqua River Lighthouse - Winchester Bay's 19th Century Lighthouse offers a museum, sea views, tours and a great gift shop. Reviewers praise the tour guides' knowledge. Visitors can enter right inside the lighthouse lens, giving a unique experience.
• Charleston - A beautiful small town which offers a host of maritime activities from crabbing to surfing, and Marine Life Center. Plenty of local food outlets so a great place to break the journey.
• Hummingbird Winery -A decadent winery set deep in Oregon's picturesque countryside not far from your destination hotel. Taste the fruits of their labor whilst enjoying a tasting board and enjoying the views.

Best time to go on a road trip from Portland, Oregon to Redwood National Park

Due to its coastal location, Redwood National Park is a popular year-round destination. What may determine the time of year you plan your trip is whether you prefer to hike in warmer climates or cooler weather.

The actual temperature doesn't have a vast range, average summer highs of 66 degrees Fahrenheit and winter lows are 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Regardless of when you travel, dress in layers and pack for all eventualities.

Summers are mild with temperatures around 63 degrees Fahrenheit, and you can expect to see the odd foggy day due to the cold North Pacific Ocean waters merging with the sun-warmed land, but this precipitation allows for the forest to flourish in the way that it does.

Events in the summer include Redwood Coast Music Festival - a four-day music festival in late summer in the Eureka area.

Winters are cooler but still mild with temperatures ranging between mid-40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit and rain is likely, but that doesn't put visitors off, as winter can be a beautiful time to visit Redwood.

You will see beautiful fall foliage and spring blossoms on the way, even though Redwood National Park itself homes evergreen species. This is especially true if you follow the Direct Route and make detours to the stunning national forests of Oregon.

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Justice Department ramps up efforts to reduce violent crime with gun intel center, carjacking forces

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WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department is ramping up its efforts to reduce violent crime in the U.S., launching a specialized gun intelligence center in Chicago and expanding task forces to curb carjackings.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said there is “absolutely much more to do” to make communities safer, even as many places have experienced a downward trend in crime after a coronavirus pandemic-era spike.

“No level of violence is acceptable,” Monaco said during a trip to Chicago this week. “We are seeing progress, but we’re far from done. We have to double down on the strategies that work, by bringing federal resources to act as force multipliers.”

The initiatives are part of a broad effort by President Joe Biden’s administration to address violent crime — an issue the Democratic president has featured in his reelection campaign to reach young voters concerned about gun violence. Republicans have seized on violence in some American cities, including the nation’s capital, to try to paint Democrats as weak on crime.

Last week, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announced it had finalized a new rule requiring thousands more firearms dealers to run background checks on buyers at gun shows or other places outside brick-and-mortar stores. Gun rights groups are expected to mount legal challenges.

In Chicago, the gun crime intelligence center at the city’s ATF office brings together federal agents and state and local police as well as federal and local prosecutors to share and analyze firearm intelligence to better identify traffickers and the most prolific shooters, officials said.

It’s modeled after dozens of similar centers run by the ATF across the country. The Chicago center will house 65 agents, officers, analysts and prosecutors.

“The goal is to catch more violent people, truly violent. And, second, to do a better job at seeing if we can prevent them from getting armed in the first place,” ATF Director Steve Dettelbach said in an interview. “The first days and hours after an incident are crucial to the investigation, and being able to have everybody together, looking at that data every single day and making decisions, is a real game changer.”

Chicago is one of the nation’s gun violence hotspots, even as police data shows shootings and killings declined there last year. The announcement comes days after a young girl was killed and 10 other people were wounded in a shooting police believe was gang-related on the city’s South Side.

“Every innocent life lost to gun violence is one too many,” Monaco said. “And every shooter evading justice is one too many.”

Recently released FBI data based on numbers sent from about 80% of U.S. law enforcement agencies shows murders overall dropped 13% and violent crime overall was down 6% in the last three months of 2023 compared with the same period the year before. Final detailed data for 2023 is expected to be released in the fall.

Amid a scourge of carjackings nationwide, the Justice Department has also created task forces to combat the issue in seven more U.S. attorney’s offices, including the Eastern District of Texas, the Northern District of Alabama and the Northern District of California. The task forces, which are now in 11 offices, include federal prosecutors, ATF and FBI agents and state and local law enforcement.

The goal is to get federal officials involved at the beginning of carjacking investigations — even if the cases ended up being prosecuted locally — to help with duties like tracing firearms, performing forensics analyses or getting search warrants and subpoenas.

Follow the AP’s coverage of the U.S. Department of Justice at https://apnews.com/hub/us-department-of-justice .

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Pro-Palestinian demonstrators shut down airport highways and key bridges in major US cities

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators shut down both directions of the Golden Gate Bridge Monday snarling traffic for hours.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers.

A passenger walks on the highway as he carries his luggage to at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

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Pedestrians and bicyclists wait outside the pedestrian gate on the south side of the Golden Gate Bridge while the bridge is closed due to protesters on Monday, April 15, 2024 in San Francisco, Calif. (Lea Suzuki/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

Heavy traffic is seen at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Protesters calling for a cease fire in Gaza shut down southbound traffic on Highway 880 in Oakland, Calif. on Monday, April 15, 2024. (Bronte Wittpenn/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

A passenger talks on the her phone as she walks to Terminal 1 at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travellers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Passengers walk to a security checkpoint at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Travellers wait for their ride at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Travellers wait for an airport shuttle bus at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

TravelLers walk to Terminal 1 at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelLers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Travelers wait for an airport shuttle bus at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Traffic is backed up at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Travelers wait for their ride at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Travelers walk through Terminal 1 at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Monday, April 15, 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked a freeway leading to three Chicago O’Hare International Airport terminals Monday morning, temporarily stopping vehicle traffic into one of the nation’s busiest airports and causing headaches for travelers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Demonstrators protesting the ongoing war in Gaza, block southbound traffic on Interstate 880 in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, April 15, 2024. Traffic in the San Francisco Bay Area was also snarled for hours Monday morning as pro-Palestinian demonstrators shut down both directions of the Golden Gate Bridge and stalled a 17-mile (27-kilometer) stretch of Interstate 880 in Oakland. (Brontë Wittpenn/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

CHICAGO (AP) — Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked roadways in Illinois, California, New York and the Pacific Northwest on Monday, temporarily shutting down travel into some of the nation’s most heavily used airports, onto the Golden Gate and Brooklyn bridges and on a busy West Coast highway.

In Chicago, protesters linked arms and blocked lanes of Interstate 190 leading into O’Hare International Airport around 7 a.m. in a demonstration they said was part of a global “economic blockade to free Palestine,” according to Rifqa Falaneh, one of the organizers.

Traffic in the San Francisco Bay Area was snarled for hours as demonstrators shut down all vehicle, pedestrian and bike traffic on the Golden Gate Bridge and chained themselves to 55-gallon drums filled with cement across Interstate 880 in Oakland. Protesters marching into Brooklyn blocked Manhattan-bound traffic on the Brooklyn Bridge. In Eugene, Oregon, protesters blocked Interstate 5, shutting down traffic on the major highway for about 45 minutes.

Protesters say they chose O’Hare in part because it is one of the largest airports. Among other things, they’ve called for an immediate cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas.

Anti- war protesters have demonstrated in Chicago near daily since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel that killed around 1,200 people. Israeli warplanes and ground troops have since conducted a scorched-earth campaign on the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli offensive has killed more than 33,700 Palestinians, according to the Gaza health ministry. The ministry does not differentiate between civilians and combatants in its count but says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead.

O’Hare warned travelers on the social platform X to take alternative forms of transportation with car travel “substantially delayed this morning due to protest activity.”

Some travelers stuck in standstill traffic left their cars and walked the final leg to the airport along the freeway, trailing their luggage behind them.

Among them was Madeline Hannan from suburban Chicago. She was headed to O’Hare for a work trip to Florida when her and her husband’s car ended up stalled for 20 minutes. She got out and “both ran and speed walked” more than a mile (1.6 kilometers). She said she made it to the gate on time, but barely.

“This was an inconvenience,” she said in a telephone interview from Florida. “But in the grand scheme of things going on overseas, it’s a minor inconvenience.”

While individual travelers may have been affected, operations at the airport appeared near normal with delays of under 15 minutes, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation.

Inbound traffic toward O’Hare resumed around 9 a.m.

Near Seattle, the Washington State Department of Transportation said a demonstration closed the main road to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Social media posts showed people holding a banner and waving Palestinian flags while standing on the highway, which reopened about three hours later.

About 20 protesters were arrested at the Golden Gate Bridge demonstration and traffic resumed shortly after noon, according to the California Highway Patrol. The agency said officers were making arrests at two points on the interstate, including one spot where roughly 300 protesters refused orders to disperse,

“Attempting to block or shut down a freeway or state highway to protest is unlawful, dangerous, and prevents motorists from safely reaching their destinations,” the agency said in a statement.

Oregon State Police said 52 protestors were were arrested for disorderly conduct following the Interstate 5 protest in Eugene, Oregon, about 110 miles (177 kilometers) south of Portland. Six vehicles were towed from the scene.

New York Police made numerous arrests, saying 150 protesters were initially involved in the march around 3:15 p.m., but that number quickly grew. The bridge was fully reopened by 5 p.m.

In Chicago, dozens of protesters were arrested, according to Falaneh. Chicago police said Monday that “multiple people” were taken into custody after a protest where people obstructed traffic, but they did not have a detailed count.

Associated Press writers Janie Har in San Francisco, Claire Rush in Portland, Oregon; Pat Eaton-Robb in Hartford, Connecticut and Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu contributed to this report.