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Portland metro area.

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Portland Travel Guide

Portland, Oregon is an outdoor lover's dream destination and the locals couldn't agree more. Whether it's strolling through any one of the 275 public parks and gardens or kayaking down the Willamette River that cuts through the heart of the city, there's endless options to do some outdoor exploring. And with nearly 400 miles of bikeways it's no surprise that Portland is considered the biking capital of the country.

Even though this West Coast hub gets significantly more rain than the majority of the country, you won't find yourself stuck inside waiting out the bad weather. There's an eclectic mix of neighborhoods each with its own unique vibe. From high-end shopping Downtown to vintage boutiques in the city's Southeast quadrant and fine dining restaurants in Nob Hill and the Pearl District to casual eateries in Division, there's really something for everyone.

Pacific Standard Time. (Daylight Savings Time is observed seasonally)

Best Time to Go

The summer months are when Portland really shines. With consistent warm weather and lighter than average rainfall from June to August, the city's vibrant outdoor scene really kicks into high gear. Residents take advantage of the nicer days with an impressive selection of outdoor dining options and loads of great festivals, including the Waterfront Blues Festival and the Portland Rose Festival each June, and in July, there's the Oregon Brewers Festival and the Big Float , where upwards of 70,000 people descend on the city's waterfront for a massive people-powered flotilla and beach party.

But the summer isn't the only time to visit the City of Roses as pleasant weather stretches into the early fall months making September and October just as good a time to check out the area. But come mid-October, that's when the rainy season starts, and unpredictable weather stretches into early May.

Things to Know

Portland has one of the strongest beer scenes in the country with over 70 microbreweries in the greater metro area. But while beer might be the first drink that people think of when planning a trip to the area, they also have a stand out wine scene. Just to the south of Portland, in the Willamette Valley (pronounced Wuh-la-muht), you'll find around 80 wineries and over 200 vineyards that produce the majority of the state's acclaimed wine.

For those who prefer coffee, the city has even more independent coffee roasters than they do breweries with 80 in the city limits alone.

Known for its commitment to healthy living, Portland was named a "platinum" bicycle-friendly community by the League of American Bicyclists partly due to its 385 miles of bikeways and its bike share system called Biketown.

Oregon is one of only two states, the other being New Jersey, where it's illegal to pump your own gas. The state is also one of five states that do not impose a sales tax, including Alaska, Delaware, Montana, and New Hampshire.

How to Get Around

Portland's TriMet public transportation system offers light rail, bus, and streetcar service throughout the city and into the surrounding metro area. Riders can use a Hop card on all TriMet public transit and service costs $2.50 for 2.5 hours or $5 for the day.

Trains: The MAX Light Rail system operates on five lines: Blue, Green, Red, Yellow, and Orange. With 60 miles of track and 97 stations, the light rail connects the airport, city, and surrounding suburbs. Trains run every 15 minutes at peak and operate between 4 a.m. and midnight.

Portland Streetcar services Downtown and the surrounding areas on a three-line system: A Loop, B Loop, and North Shore Line. Trains run every 15 minutes at peak and operate between 5:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. on the weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and every 20 minutes from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Sundays.

Buses: There are 84 TriMet bus lines that operate in the greater metro area. Busses run every 15 minutes and operate on a 24-hour schedule.

Bike: The Biketown bike-share program is a popular commuting alternative. With 1,500 bikes and 180 stations, you can easily get around town. You can pay as you go (.20 cents per mile, plus $1 to unlock the bike) or buy a monthly membership ($99 annual fee, plus .10 cents per mile). Car Service and Taxis: Uber and Lyft both service Portland. You can also easily find a taxi at the airport or schedule in advance .

Best Hotels

Address: 525 SW Morrison Street, Portland, OR 97204 Phone: (503) 222-9996 Website

Situated right on the corner of Pioneer Courthouse Square in the center of Downtown Portland, The Nines is housed in a turn-of-the-century building and offers 331 rooms, including 13 suites. The hotel occupies the top nine floors of the 15-story building, offering great views of the city. Amenities include a rooftop terrace, two restaurants, and two bars.

The Hoxton, Portland

Address: 15 NW 4th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209 Phone: (503) 770-0500 Website

At the center of historic Old Town Chinatown in what used to be the city's original downtown, The Hoxton is surrounded by quaint shops, bars, and restaurants. All of the 119 rooms are decorated with mid-century touches and feature art curated by a local gallerist. The hotel has two restaurants—a rooftop bar and restaurant with sweeping views of the city, and an eatery with pastries in the morning and cocktails at night—plus, a secret speakeasy that serves up inventive cocktails that's housed in the hotel's basement.

Address: 309 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 228-2000 Website

Situated between the Pearl District and Downtown, the 287-room historical hotel maintains much of it's 100-year-old glamour, from the grand staircase in the lobby to the classically-designed rooms. Guests have their choice of dining in the ground-floor restaurant or setting up a private dinner in the wine cellar.

Address: 614 SW 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 224-3400 Website

Built in 1909, the Sentinel is filled with historic charm and high design touches, including a curated art selection displayed throughout the hotel. The hotel boasts 100 rooms and is situated in the heart of Downtown within walking distance to Pioneer Courthouse Square, the waterfront, Portland Art Museum, and plenty of shops and restaurants.

Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel

Address: 1510 S Harbor Way, Portland, OR 97201 Phone: (503) 228-3233 Website

The views can't be beat at this waterfront property, with sweeping views of the Willamette River. But the inside of the hotel is just as grand, with amenities including pillowtop beds with premium bedding, in-room spa treatments, and suite and cottage options with fireplaces, full kitchens, and in-room laundry—plus, it's pet-friendly.

Best Restaurants

Screen door (american south).

Address: 2337 E Burnside Street, Portland, OR 97214 Phone: (503) 542-0880 Website

Screen Door specializes in American Southern cuisine but with modern flair. Dine inside or on the covered patio to soak up the nice weather on warm days. For parties of six or more it's recommended to make a reservation, especially during the summer months and for weekend brunch, as wait times can be pretty long.

Andina (Peruvian)

Address: 1314 NW Glisan Street, Portland, OR 97209 Phone: (503) 228-9535 Website

For nearly 20 years, Andina has been serving up modern takes on traditional Peruvian dishes in the city's Pearl District. The décor is inviting yet contemporary with soft neutral colors, crisp white tablecloths, and walls decorated with murals centered around Andean culture that were commissioned by a local artist.

Kachka (Eastern European)

Address: 960 SE 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97214 Phone: (503) 235-0059 Website

This casual eatery and deli dishes up a range of Eastern European small plates and sells imported grocery items you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else. Grab a quick bite and enjoy it out on the patio or take it to go for an impromptu picnic at nearby St. Francis Park.

Mucca Osteria (Italian)

Address: 1022 SW Morrison Street, Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 227-5521 Website

This upscale eatery in the heart of Downtown Portland offers the best of traditional Italian fare. From house-made spaghetti to gnocchi in a boar ragu and ricotta-filled tortellini to sous vide pork shoulder, you're sure to leave with a full stomach. Dine indoors to take in the eclectic décor or sit outside for some great people watching, just be sure to make a reservation as they have very limited seating.

Jake's Famous Crawfish (American South)

Address: 401 SW 12th Avenue, Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 226-1419 Website

Jake's Famous Crawfish is a local landmark that's been in operation since 1892 on the border of the Pearl District and Downtown Portland. Fresh fish is flown in daily making it one of the best spots in town to get seafood. Wait times can be long so it's recommended to make a reservation in advance just in case.

Salt & Straw (Dessert)

Address: 838 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210 Phone: (971) 271-8168 Website

Launched by cousins Kim and Tyler Malek in 2011, this ice cream shop is the perfect stop for anyone looking to satiate their sweet tooth. With flavors like Jasmine Milk Tea & Chocolate, Hibiscus & Coconut Sherbet, and Rhubarb Crumble with Toasted Anise, you won't find any other place like it. And with three locations, it's easy to find yourself within walking distance. But if you don't want to leave your hotel, they also offer local delivery.

Things to Do

International rose test garden.

Address: 400 SW Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 823-3636 Website

Perfect for a spring or summer stroll, the International Rose Test Garden is the longest-running garden of its kind in the country and has over 10,000 rose bushes of 650 different varieties. The garden exemplifies the city's nickname as the "City of Roses" and is just one of 279 different parks and natural areas in Portland.

Portland Art Museum

Address: 1219 SW Park Avenue , Portland, OR 97205 Phone: (503) 226-2811 Website

One of the oldest art museums in the country, founded in 1892, this cultural institution has an expansive collection of over 50,000 items spread across 112,000 square feet of gallery space. The museum specializes in Native American art, English silver, and graphic art.

Portland Saturday Market

Address: 2 SW Naito Parkway , Portland, OR 97204 Phone: (503) 222-6072 Website

The Portland Saturday Market is the oldest continuously operated outdoor market in the U.S. selling goods from local artisans. Here, you can find jewelry, photography, paintings, wines, art, and much more.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Address: 239 NW Everett Street, Portland, OR 97209 Phone: (503) 228-8131 Website

A trip to Lan Su Chinese Garden will have you feeling as though you've just stepped foot in China, rather than in this West Coast town. Filled with plants native to Asia and decorative pagodas, this is a favorite spot to snap photos or take a relaxing stroll.

Address: 4001 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221 Phone: (503) 226-1561 Website

Located in Washington Park just west of Downtown Portland, the Oregon Zoo is set on 64 acres and houses elephants, lions, and chimpanzees. Founded nearly 135 years ago, it's the oldest zoo west of the Mississippi River.

Best Shopping

Powell's city of books.

Address: 1005 West Burnside Street, Portland, OR 97209 Phone: (800) 878-7323 Website

Powell's City of Books has been a staple in Downtown Portland for 50 years and offers an impressive selection of over 1 million books for bibliophiles to comb through. The bookstore has expanded to include two additional locations, one in Hawthorne and another in Beaverton, but the flagship location is still a local favorite.

Lena Medoyeff

Address: 710 NW 23rd Avenue , Portland, OR 97210 Phone: (503) 227-0011 Website

The bridal designs at Lena Medoyeff in Nob Hill are truly one-of-a-kind, blending traditional elements with unconventional flair. Her recent collections showcase sleek and sophisticated wedding dresses that you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

N'Kossi Boutique

Address: 700 SW 5th Ave, Suite 1180 , Portland, OR 97204 Phone: (971) 407-6558 Website

Since 1995, designer and tailor Jean Pierre Nugloze has brought a unique sensibility to his work, offering both traditional and modern takes on Togolese fashion. Situated right in the heart of Downtown, N'Kossi Boutique offers men's and women's fashion, jewelry, and activewear.

The House of Rose (THOR)

Address: 7459 SW Bridgeport Road, Tigard, OR 97224 Phone: (503) 747-0930 Website

Tony Iyke grew up in Nigeria and brought his talents to Portland, Oregon, creating hand-crafted pieces for both men and women. Iyke creates custom suits, dresses, blazers, and pants, and also offers a selection of suitcases, wallets, and other small accessories.

Betsy + Iya

Address: 1777 NW 24th Avenue, Portland, OR 97210 Phone: (503) 227-5482 Website

The team at Besty + Iya have been making hand-made jewelry since 2008, focusing on fun, geometric patterns—think asymmetrical metallic earrings or necklaces à la Salvador Dalí. The shop also offers a range of womenswear and bridal pieces that play off that cool and funky aesthetic.

Address: 8202 N Denver Avenue, Portland, OR 97217 Phone: (503) 289-0558 Website

Karen McClelland founded Mantel PDX to help support local artists and showcase their work. Housed in a refurbished historical building in Kenton, the store features ceramics, homeware, jewelry, and accessories, all made by fellow Portlanders.

Neighborhoods to Know

The city is divided into six sections that locals call "quadrants": North Portland, Northeast Portland, Northwest Portland, South Portland, Southeast Portland, and Southwest Portland. Each quadrant has its own unique style and scene.

Pearl District: A former industrial neighborhood located between Nob Hill and Downtown Portland, this trendy district has transformed into one of the city's prime shopping areas. Reclaimed warehouses are filled with the area's bars and restaurants, including breweries, quaint coffee shops, and trendy restaurants. And the many Indie boutiques and galleries showcase work by local artists.

Nob Hill: Decorative Victorians and lush greenery make the Nob Hill neighborhood one of the city's most stunning. Many of the homes have been converted into businesses that house casual eateries, boutiques, and refined restaurants, making the area a great spot to grab a bite and take in the city's beautiful architecture.

West End: Set in the historic section of the city's downtown, the West End is where to go for fashion, nightlife, and plenty of shopping. You'll find a good mix of luxe hotels, cafés, design shops, and boutiques that showcase both local and international products.

Alberta Arts District: Centered along Alberta Street in the Northeast portion of town, this trendy district connects the surrounding neighborhoods of King, Vernon, and Concordia with art galleries, colorful murals, and plenty of restaurants. The district is best known for its monthly street fair, Last Thursday , that showcases and promotes local artists, musicians, and performers.

Hawthorne: Set on the east side of the Willamette River in the Southeast quadrant, Hawthorne is a nearly three-mile commercial stretch of eclectic shops and dining options. Here, you'll find bookstores, vintage thrift stores, restaurants, and theaters, and on the far east end is Mount Tabor Park, which is filled with great walking trails and even better views of the city.

Division: You could spend your entire trip feasting your way through all of the restaurants that line the many streets that make up this Southeast quadrant neighborhood. But it's not all about the dining, you'll also find a number of great shops and boutiques selling vintage fashion and home décor items.

Portland experiences more rain than most cities in the country with 43 inches per year compared to the average of 38 inches. But the city gets 88 percent of its rainfall from October through May, making for relatively dry summer months. Even with significant rainfall (averaging 156 days per year compared to the US average of 103 days) the city only gets about three inches of snow per year.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month. Average annual precipitation in Portland is 43 inches of rain.

January: 36°F to 47°F February: 36°F to 51°F March: 40°F to 57°F April: 43°F to 61°F May: 49°F to 68°F June: 54°F to 74°F July: 58°F to 81°F August: 58°F to 81°F September: 53°F to 76°F October: 46°F to 64°F November: 40°F to 53°F December: 35°F to 46°F

Apps to Download

PDX Bus, MAX, Streetcar & WES : Public transportation in Portland iOs (Only available on iOs)

Biketown : Bike share servicing Portland iOs | Android

Uber : Rideshare servicing Portland iOS | Android

Lyft : Rideshare servicing Portland iOS | Android

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Portland, Oregon Travel Guide

Is Portlandia kinda accurate? Yeah, but Portlanders know the rest of the world is just jealous. They had the beards, the craft beer, and grew their own vegetables long before (as in a solid century) these were worldwide signifiers of cool. But this frontier river town is so much more than its rep for being wonderfully weird and preciously hip. A midpoint between the Pacific and the Cascade Mountain Range, with mild winters and long, hot summers—and urban planners who knew the importance of hiking trails and acres of forest in the middle of a city—Portland is one of the most beautiful in the country, and its vibrant food, cocktail, and design scenes are even more progressive than its politics.

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Your Trip to Portland, Oregon: The Complete Guide

  4nadia/Getty Images

Call it the City of Roses, Stumptown, Portlandia, Bridgetown, PDX, Beervana, P-Town, or Rip City. Portland, Oregon has more than its fair share of nicknames. And it’s got an abundance of top-notch parks, museums, restaurants, and live music venues too. Read on for our complete Portland visitor’s guide, and learn the best places to eat, imbibe, stay, shop, and hang out in this vibrant Pacific Northwest city.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: The good news is that Portland’s climate is mild year-round. The bad news? It rains a lot from November through the spring, and even into June (so if you’re visiting during those months, be sure to pack a raincoat). Spring is still a beautiful time to visit, though, especially in March and April when the cherry trees lining Tom McCall Waterfront Park downtown are in bloom. For practically guaranteed sunshine, however, plan your trip during Portland’s blissful summer months or early fall when humidity is low, and the skies are blue.

Getting Around: Portland’s TriMet public transportation system offers the MAX light rail, bus, and streetcar options . It’s also a very easy city to navigate by bike or rental car. There are also plenty of other inexpensive transportation options for getting around town, including Radio Cab and other taxi companies, Uber, Lyft, and share programs for cars, bikes, and scooters.

Travel Tip: Portland is one of the country’s best cities for great cheap eats. Visit one of hundreds of food carts around the city for amazing value. The city also has an amazing happy hour culture—many restaurants offer happy hour specials twice a day around 5 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Things to Do

Portland is a destination for everyone from foodies to hikers and bikers, live music fans, shopping fanatics, and history buffs. It’s also home to a number of professional sports teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers basketball team, Portland Timbers soccer club, minor league baseball team Hillsboro Hops, The Portland Winterhawks hockey team, and the Rose City Rollers, an all-female roller derby squad. Here are the can’t-miss activities in PDX.

• Greenspaces: When it comes to parks, Portland has an embarrassment of riches—you can hike a dormant volcano in the middle of the city at Mt. Tabor, visit the International Rose Test Garden to experience the color and fragrance of 10,000 rose bushes, hike Forest Park, one of the country’s largest urban greenspaces, and stroll the Portland Japanese Garden — considered to be the most authentic outside of Japan. (TripSavvy actually named it in the top destination in 2019 for greenspaces and the plant moms who love them.)
• Live Music: Whether you prefer punk or pop, bluegrass, indie rock, jazz, or EDM, Portland’s music scene has got you covered. If you’re looking to see a big-name act in an arena, check out the Moda Center’s calendar. Ever popular spots like the Crystal, Doug Fir, and Mississippi Studios have an eclectic mix of live music nearly every night of the week. In summertime, head just a bit out of town to take in a show on the lawn at Edgefield. 
• Museums: Likewise, PDX’s arts and cultural scene has something for everyone. The Portland Art Museum, the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest, is known for its Native American collection. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a destination for curious minds of any age. Pittock Mansion is a gorgeously restored estate that gives visitors a glimpse into Portland’s glamorous golden era, and offers some of the best views of the city. And the Portland Children’s Museum is the perfect place to let stir-crazy kiddos let loose. 

For more info about what to do in Portland, read our full-length guides on the best live music venues , museums , parks , and free things to do .

What to Eat and Drink

Ranging from top-notch food trucks to award-winning fine dining restaurants, Portland has one of the hottest culinary scenes in the nation. Get excited for all the amazing cheap eats options for pizza, doughnuts, dumplings, fried chicken, and ramen. The city also has more than its fair share of James Beard Award nominees and winners, including:

• Naomi Pomeroy (Beast)
• Andy Ricker (Pok Pok)
• Cathy Whims (Nostrana)
• Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton & Greg Denton and (Ox)
• Gabriel Rucker (Le Pigeon)
• Vitaly Paley (Paley’s Place)
• Kristen Murray (Måurice)
• Justin Woodward (Castagna)
• Katy Millard (Coquine)
• Bonnie Morales (Kachka)
• Maya Lovelace (Mae and Yonder)
• Gregory Gourdet (Departure)
• Nong Poonsukwattana (Nong’s Khao Man Gai)
• Joshua McFadden (Ava Gene)
• Doug Adams (Imperial and Bullard)

Should we go on? We could. You might also know some of these chefs from “Top Chef” (Gourdet, and Adams) and “Top Chef Masters” (Pomeroy).

Portland has also earned the nickname “Beervana” thanks to all its locally made brews, and there are dozens of spirits makers on the eastside’s “Distillery Row” and throughout the city.

For more info on Portland’s food scene, check out our list of Portland’s best restaurants and the dishes you can’t leave the city without trying.

Where to Stay

Walkable downtown Portland and the west side have the highest concentration of hotels , ranging from big to boutique. Favorites are the Ace, Kimpton Hotel Monaco, the Heathman, Hotel deLuxe, The Nines, and Hotel Lucia. Standout newcomers include The Dossier and The Hoxton.

But don’t feel like you have to stay downtown—some of Portland’s coolest neighborhoods are on the other side of the river. Close to the Convention Center is the Hotel Eastlund, along with lots of national chains like DoubleTree, Courtyard, Crown Plaza, and Residence Inn. There are other options with more personality in neighborhoods that aren’t as “close in” (meaning close to the Willamette River, which bisects the city). The Jupiter on East Burnside is connected to the iconic McMenamins Kennedy School Hotel is a former schoolhouse that has a popular soaking pool and screens movies in its auditorium. Or live like a local and rent a tiny house or a Craftsman-style home through Airbnb.

Explore the different neighborhoods you can stay in, and our recommendations on the best hotels .

Getting There

The Portland International Airport (PDX) is the city’s only major airport. It’s a breeze to travel through, and has been lauded as the best in the country for its efficiency, amenities, and food and drink options. You can also catch a train or bus to/from the city at Union Station on NE 8th Ave.

For a detailed primer on the Portland International Airport (PDX), read our complete guide . 

• Portlanders are a friendly bunch, so don’t be surprised if your barista asks “How’s your day going?” as they make your morning coffee. Yes, they really want to know.
• Locals are also polite drivers. When driving around the city—especially on the east side of town—be aware that some intersections of residential streets do not have stop signs on any side of the street. Avoid an accident by pausing to make sure no cars are coming before you go through intersections where no-one-in-particular has the right of way. Other cars should thoughtfully do the same.
• Bikers and pedestrians have the right of way, so you’ll often see drivers stop for you as you’re looking to cross a street. Try to return the favor when you’re the one behind the wheel.

Money-Saving Tips

• To minimize spending on food, eat at food carts and take advantage of Portland’s amazing happy hour scene (many restaurants have happy hour specials twice a day, early and late).
• If your rental has a kitchen, cook up some local PNW produce from one of Portland’s many farmers markets . Or pick up some groceries at the local favorite grocery store chain, New Seasons Market .
• Instead of renting a car for a full day or week, use TriMet’s public transportation system, rent a bike, or try one of the city’s bike, scooter, or car share programs. 
• In summer, check out the city’s free Events in the Park Series .
• Gallery-hop in The Pearl on First Thursdays , which is also free.
• Want to work off some of that food? Instead of paying for a yoga class, make one of Portland’s many parks your gym. Go for a run in Forest Park, or conquer the stairs at Laurelhurst Park or Mt. Tabor. 

Learn more about the cheapest ways to have fun by exploring the best free things to do in Portland.

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Portland, OR   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Photo by Matt Payne of Durango, Colorado | Getty Images

Why Go To Portland, OR

From its manicured green spaces to its deliciously diverse food scene, Portland has become a must-see destination in the Pacific Northwest. The city overflows with cultural offerings – whether it's the stacks at  Powell's City of Books  or in one of the roughly 70  craft breweries in the Portland metro area. The city of many nicknames (Stumptown, the City of Roses, Bridge City, P-town, PDX) has emerged as an urbanite's dream, with some of the most pedestrian-friendly streets in the country, many of which are lined with food carts that have given Portland some of the best, most affordable and diverse street food anywhere.

It's also full of adrenaline, with plenty of trails for hiking and biking (miles of them are found in  Forest Park ), as well as access to water sports along the Willamette and Columbia rivers that dissect and border the city – not to mention the volcanic  Mount Hood . But the most-loved attractions are low-key and intangible: a sip of locally roasted coffee, a late afternoon chat at a brewery, a stroll through open art galleries on the first Thursday evening of the month. Hip, alternative and unrelentingly progressive, Portland is one of the most flourishing cities on the West Coast. 

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• # 10 in Best Places to Visit in Oregon

Best of Portland, OR

Best hotels in portland, or.

• # 1 in The Allison Inn & Spa
• # 2 in The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland
• # 3 in The Heathman Hotel

Best Things to Do in Portland, OR

• # 1 in Washington Park
• # 2 in International Rose Test Garden
• # 3 in Portland Japanese Garden

Popular Tours

Half-Day Columbia River Gorge and Waterfall Hiking Tour

(1044 reviews)

from $ 66.00

Full-Day Guided Oregon Coast Tour from Portland

(241 reviews)

from $ 129.00

2. 5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River

(280 reviews)

from $ 127.00

Portland, OR Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Portland is from June to August, when consistently warm weather allows the city's outdoorsy culture to thrive. Plus, summer is when the city's roses (especially at the International Rose Test Garden) are in full bloom. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you'll have to book at least a couple months in advance to ensure availability and the best room rates. If you're looking to score a bargain on a hotel, consider a winter trip. Chilly temperatures repel sightseers, but Portland's proximity to  Mount Hood  makes it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll find a variety of niche local events to choose from. 

Weather in Portland, OR

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Always be prepared  Portland is known for chilly weather. Don't get caught off guard by the occasional cold day in July: Pack layers.

Be cautious  This is a relatively safe city, but that doesn't mean you should let your guard down. Be careful walking through unfamiliar areas after dark.

It's a shopper's dream  The state lacks a sales tax, so shopaholics might want to pack an extra bag to take their purchases home.

How to Save Money in Portland, OR

Only rent a car if necessary  Parking at downtown hotels is expensive, and at some properties charge as much as $50 per night. Unless you're planning a daytrip, avoid renting a car.

Dodge the lodging tax  Be aware that Multnomah County (where Portland is located) charges an 11.5% lodging tax for hotels and short-term rentals. Avoid it by staying across the Columbia River in Vancouver, Washington.

Sightsee for free   Many of Portland's top attractions – especially the parks and gardens – do not charge an entrance fee. So, grab your camera and go!

Culture & Customs

Portland has emerged as a hub for all things artistic, alternative and intellectual. The city is home to a vibrant arts and music scene, and as such it attracts young, progressive citizens looking for a laid-back lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest. Even if that lifestyle isn't your thing, Portland probably has something you'd be interested in. From jazz to classical, there's plenty of music flowing through the city, and the hipster community has also opened up a variety of vinyl record stores for those craving a bit of musical nostalgia.

Art lovers can soak up everything from the contemporary to the Native American-inspired to the quirky during free monthly art walks that take place on the first Thursday of each month. Those who love performance art can take in shows that range from live storytelling to ballet to theater, as well as an international film festival that's gained traction in the last few years.

Portlanders are also known for being very environmentally conscious, so plan to recycle and don't litter. Green spaces of all sizes are scattered throughout the city, and Portland citizens also love the outdoors, rain or shine. Bring a rain jacket and some hiking boots to enjoy all the City of Roses has to offer.

What to Eat

Known as one of the best foodie cities in the country, Portland has a multitude of options – from the high-end to affordable. You won't have to look hard for cheap eats, as the city boasts of hundreds of food carts and trucks (more than 600) throughout the city, many concentrated in "pods" throughout the downtown area. Check out these  maps  to see where many are located. For a crash course in the city's culinary scene, consider signing up for a food tour; past visitors recommended Forktown Food Tours for its friendly guides and their ability to accommodate a variety of diets. If you can't make a tour, you'll want to stop by the Portland State University farmers market , where more than 200 local vendors set up camp every Saturday on the PSU campus.

More upscale options also abound – like the top-rated  Le Pigeon  that serves French-inspired food or the modern Spanish gastropub Ataula . Other popular options include Peruvian fare at  Andina , Argentinian-inspired cuisine at  Ox  and classic seafood at  Roe. If you're looking for a dose of Pacific Northwest fare, check out  Imperial . You'll also want to enjoy a few meals at the city's top Asian eateries. Nong's Khao Man Gai , Departure , Saucebox and Bamboo Sushi , among many, many others. Chefs (and residents) pride themselves on using only fresh, local ingredients, so no matter what price point or type of cuisine you're looking for, you won't go hungry in PDX.

And don't forget the beverages Portland are known for – coffee and beer. Although you can't go wrong with any beans that are locally roasted,  Stumptown Coffee Roasters  is a popular choice. When it comes to beer, you'll have your choice of dozens of craft breweries within the city. If you have a hard time narrowing down your options, consider a tour, such as BREWVANA Brewery Tours , which comes highly rated among past visitors.

Remain cautious when traveling through downtown, Old Town, The Pearl, 82nd Avenue and Sandy Boulevard at night. During the day, the city and its tourist centers remain safe relative to other large cities. Still, you should take mind and guard your belongings on subways and other public transport. Getting around the city on a bicycle is definitely worthwhile, but plan to wear a helmet.

Getting Around Portland, OR

The best way to get around Portland is public transportation, although you shouldn't rule out your own two feet. This city is known for having one of the easiest and most tourist-friendly public transportation systems in the country, with extensive routes from TriMet buses and light rail trains. You can hop on the light-rail from the Portland International Airport (PDX) and get into the city for a little more than $2, which is much cheaper than cab fare (around $35). Rental cars from the airport can come in handy for making daytrips outside of the city to places like  Mount Hood  and the Willamette Valley.

On clear days, you can see snowy Mount Hood , the highest mountain in Oregon from Portland.

Explore More of Portland, OR

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14 Things to See and Do in Portland, Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip to Portland: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

• HI Portland

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

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

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

Want More Information on the United States? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on the United States for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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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

Where to stay in portland, portland itinerary, day 1 itinerary in portland, day 2 itinerary in portland, portland itinerary: day 3 and beyond, staying safe in portland, day trips from portland, faq on portland itinerary.

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.

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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.

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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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• Destinations

Portland Travel Guide

Portland might be known as the West coast's hipster capital, but visitors will soon realize it is so much more than that. The city is a foodie haven teeming with craft beers and high-quality coffee roasters. Outdoor adventures are limitless thanks to the Portland's close proximity to rivers, lakes, and national parks, not to mention the nature wonderland of Forest Park right in the heart of the city. — Christy Woodrow

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Things To Do

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Best Things to See + Do in Greater Portland, Maine

Looking for things to do in Portland, Maine and beyond? Our diverse coastal area is centrally located, where nearby regions welcome visitors with their own distinctive Maine experiences. It’s all at your fingertips. Sea you there…

Must See + Do

Unlock what makes this coastal community a must-do destination. From history and landmarks to craft brews and bites, there are so many reasons spend your vacation in Greater Portland, Maine.

Explore the Maine Coast

The perfect way to experience the coastal and inland areas of Greater Portland Maine.

Maine offers plenty of outdoor adventure, parks, and hands-on fun.

Constant attention to landmark preservation has made Maine a historical destination.

Whitewater rafting, camping, fishing and hunting trips – on the water or on land.

Just one visit and it’s easy to see why so many people add shopping to their list of reasons to come to Greater Portland Maine.

Featured Events

There’s always something to do in Greater Portland, Maine.

From daily tours to cruises, art exhibitions, music, and live performances.

Browse our Events Calendar and save your favorites.

Always cross-check event time/date with organizer’s website before booking. 

Prepare for the solar eclipse on Apr 8th.

Welcome the warm weather and enjoy some good food with the award-winning The Lobster Shack!

Come to Sunday River and enjoy the best views of the 2024 Solar Eclipse!

Come view the Solar Eclipse with us at Pineland Farms!

Kick off summer with a week of wine in Portland!

Must-see + Do, Day Trips, In + Outdoor Fun – Find it all in Maine

As visitors survey the scenic vistas of this historic city on Casco Bay , gaze at boats that come and go from the waterfront, and watch the activity along the downtown’s cobblestone streets, finding things to do may be the furthest thing from their minds. For those preferring to focus on filling their days with fun activities and enduring memories, Greater Portland delivers. Visitors will find kid-friendly amusements, must-see attractions, day-trips, and nightlife for every taste and style and every family member.

Greater Portland means great getaway, vacation, and long-term stay opportunities each season—from high-octane to low-key, indoor to outdoor, land or sea. This metropolitan city with small town charm is a cultural mecca and wildlife wonderland. It is the home of microbrews and sea cruises , of a world-class food and art + culture scene. Where shopping , sailing, or hitting the beach is at its best.

VISITOR INFORMATION

When you’re in town, stop by our Visitor Information Center to pick-up brochures, Visitor’s Guides, maps of the region, and plenty of pro-tips to help make the most of your stay in Greater Portland.

OCEAN GATEWAY – SEASONAL HOURS: Mon to Sat – 10am to 3pm Sun – closed

Plan Your Trip

Plan your trip to Greater Portland Maine. Explore Maine’s local brew scene, a variety of walking tours, history and landmarks, and much more. Love the water… take a sailing excursion or boat tour. Love to shop.. fine unique local shops. Store things of interest like upcoming events and your favorite activities. Then send your trip plan to your family and friends.

Online Shopping

So many people add shopping to their list of reasons to visit Greater Portland—from handcrafts to haute-couture. By shopping online at our local boutiques and shops, you can bring a piece of Maine straight to your front door. It might just be enough to hold you over until your next trip to Greater Portland!

Packages + Deals

Browse through the special packages and deals offered by participating businesses. Find special deals on tours and attractions to maximize your visit. Enhance your shopping experience and find that perfect gift or souvenir. Don’t forget to enjoy the food scene. Find discounts and happy hour specials.

On The Blog

Join lifelong Mainers, Amy + Dan, as they make their way down the coast for seven days of fun in the sun—exploring a bit of everything Maine has to offer.

Across Greater Portland we are bringing the fun with annual fairs, festivals, and exciting events all year long and for all ages.

If you’re considering the Northeast for a meeting, event, or conference—it is time to start thinking about hosting in the Greater Portland region!

We know how much goes into capturing those perfect moments that live on long after you leave, here are some inspiring photo hot spots.

How would YOU live like a local? Peek our Maine itineraries for a ideas on how you could spend a fun-filled day like no other in Greater Portland.

There’s no shortage of beautiful, stunning places to snap, but these are the ones that come up as some of the most romantic, time and time again.

Free Visitor's Guide

Receive information to assist you in planning your Maine vacation. Listings include where to stay, where to eat, what to do, maps, and much more… it’s everything you need.

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2024 maine's total solar eclipse: what to know before april 8.

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The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

Maine is one of the many states in the path of totality for April 8's solar eclipse. The event is expected to draw thousands of visitors to Vacationland for the 115-mile wide path.

"It's an extraordinary emotional and physical thing to witness, and scientifically, it does offer opportunities as well to study the sun's corona," said Rob Burgess, President of the Southern Maine Astronomers.

The 115-mile-wide path of totality will cross northern New England , including places like Rangeley, Jackman, Carrabassett Valley and Baxter State Park.

"You will not see the same thing in Portland as you will see elsewhere. If you're actually in the totality path, you'll actually be able to see the corona, you'll actually be able to see Bailey's Beads, the sun going through the gaps in the mountains of the moon so you'll see features in a total solar eclipse that you won't see even a partial solar eclipse," said Edward Herrick-Gleason, Planetarium Director at the University of Southern Maine.

Check which addresses will be in the path of totality

Eclipse Checklist

• Wear your eclipse glasses while watching the event to avoid damaging your eyes.
• Have a full tank of gas or a full charge
• Pack a paper map – cell phone towers may become overloaded, and cell service is spotty in many areas within the path of totality
• Plan as if you will get stuck in traffic; be patient, and pack plenty of snacks and water
• It’s mud season in Maine – many dirt roads may not be passable. Stay on paved roads at all times.
• Be aware of Maine State Park guidelines – campgrounds and ATV trails will be closed during the event
• If you park and hike into the woods, do not hike beyond your skill level.
• Watch out for tick
• Never drive with eclipse glasses on
• If you consume alcohol during the eclipse, be sure you have a designated driver

Visitors driving to Maine should prepare for delays and traffic. Officials are reminding people to not only pack a paper map, but also to be patient and pack plenty of snacks and water.

Those who are traveling should also prepare an emergency car kit.

Emergency Car Kit Recommendations

• Paper map (in case cellular/GPS service is unavailable because of remote location or due to cell service overloads) 
• Prescription medications and glasses 
• First aid kit 
• Cell phone and charger 
• Water and snacks 
• Books, games to occupy time during traffic delays 

School Closings

With everyone in Maine able to see at least a partial eclipse, many state schools are either closing their doors or letting students out early.

Augusta is just one of those schools. Officials announced April 8 will be an early release day so that students can be off the bus so they can watch the eclipse when it is at peak. You can see our list of school closings by clicking here.

Eclipse Glasses

Dr. Kirsten Turrisi at Maine Mall Eye Care says viewing the solar eclipse without protective eyewear, even for a few seconds, could have a lasting impact.

Dr, Turrisi says, "It’s a condition called solar retinopathy. What it is is a photo chemical burn almost of your central vision of your macula. It can cause a lot of blurred vision, distortion of vision or changes to your color perception. While some cases can be mild, some cases can result in permanent vision loss.”

Where not to visit

Baxter State Park has warned visitors there is no access to Katahdin or Traveler Range in April, with only limited access to other locations in the parts of the park.

"We recommend seeking viewing locations that are outside of the Park, and which provide the proper lines of sight for viewing the eclipse," Baxter State Park posted on their Facebook Page.

Along with restricted access to Katahdin and Traveler Range, there is no camping anywhere in the park at that time. It is also illegal to camp outside of designated campgrounds in the park at any time of the year.

Instead of attempting to view the eclipse at the state park, officials suggest trying to see the eclipse in Houlton where Totality will last longer than average.

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Mami’s yaki onigiri are grilled rice balls worth getting to know

The Japanese snack gets filled with different ingredients at the Portland restaurant.

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Mami’s yaki onigiri. Photo by Peggy Grodinsky

I was introduced to onigiri, and yaki onigiri, 35 years ago when I lived in Japan. For years after I returned to the States, I could rarely find either, and onigiri was among the foods I missed most. Now, onigiri (sometimes, in Hawaii, called omusubi) have caught on in the U.S., but yaki onigiri remain – at least in my experience in Maine – harder to find. “Yaki” means grilled in Japanese; “onigiri” are rice balls, so these are, you got it, grilled rice balls, although often, as at Mami, they’re in the shape of a triangle.

Typically in Japan, onigiri have a small knob of filling – things like pickled plum or spicy tuna – whereas yaki onigiri are not filled. At least that’s how I remember it. But Mami fills its yaki onigiri, and I am not complaining.

At lunch one day late last month, that filling was a small amount of carrots and garlicy sweet potato rendered with pork fat. The yaki onigiri was brushed with a soy-miso glaze and chili crisp (that last also non-traditional) before it was grilled. After the snack had burnished to a deep, caramely brown, it arrived at my table, nice and warm and scattered with scallions and furikake. I broke it open with chopsticks: The medium-grain rice was moist, chewy and soft all at once, the crispy crust a perfect contrast. If “umami” were a smell rather than a taste, it’d smell like this did.

Mami, a lunch and dinner cafe, says it sells about 30 yaki onigiri a day in the winter, double that come summertime. Other recent fillings have included spicy salmon and beef with shishito peppers. In Japan, I encountered yaki onigiri mostly on nights out drinking and sharing small plates of Japanese bar food. You eat them with very fresh oshinko (Japanese pickles), said my friend Dan, who grew up in Japan, worked there for years and speaks fluent Japanese, explaining, “at the end of the meal to absorb all the alcohol. The capstone.”

For me, yaki onigiri bring back memories of (specifically) dark, snug izakayas under the train tracks in Tokyo, and (generally) being young and carefree and on a grand adventure.

And Mami’s yaki onigiri are delicious.

Yaki onigiri, $7; Mami, 339 Fore St., Portland, 207-536-4702, mamiportland.com

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T&C Hotel Awards 2024: The Best New Minimalist Hotels

When less is more, here are some perfectly pared-down places.

Sea Cabins at Manshausen, Norway

Even by Norwegian standards, 14-acre Manshausen Island is out there, a place for close encounters with the extreme north.It’s also home to one of Norway’s architectural wonders: The Sea Cabins at Manshausen . The glass-walled Sea Cabins, brain child of Arctic explorer Borge Ousland, give you front-row seats on some of nature’s most impressive spectacles, from the midnight sun to the northern lights. Two new "sea towers," named Nansen and Amundsen, for two of Norway's famous explorers, even have glass roofs so you can count the stars from bed. More arduous pursuits? Plenty. Such as the Nordskot Traverse, a trail with cliffs falling away to each side. —John Newton

To book a trip to Norway, contact Torunn Tronsvang of UpNorway , [email protected]

Boca de Agua, Mexico

Star Mexican architect Frida Escobedo, who in 2018 designed London’s Serpentine Pavilion and is at work on the modern and contemporary wing of New York’s Metropolitan Museum, has built a hotel on Yucatan’s aqua-blue Bacalar lagoon. The 26 understated rooms of Boca de Agua use tropical woods (responsibly sourced), are flooded with sunlight that pours in through what are more windows than walls, and sit atop pillars—creating a treehouse effect and reducing environmental impact. Escobedo’s hope is that over time the hotel will further integrate into its tropical setting; as you'll wish you could after a few days here. —John Newton

To book a trip to Mexico, contact Zachary Rabinor of Journey Mexico, [email protected]

The Bolder, Norway

Not far from Stavanger in southern Norway, Lysefjord cuts a dramatic path through mountains that rise thousands of feet along each of its shores. The latest addition to this visual feast is some cutting-edge Scandinavian design by Snøhetta, the Norwegian firm behind the Oslo Opera House and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Egypt: The Bolder and its minimalist concrete-and-glass Sky Lodges, which appear to float above the fjord. Their muted interiors are pared back but warm, and the effect is somewhere between a cozy treetop aerie and a Bond-like modernist lair. —John Newton

To book a trip to Norway: Torunn Tronsvang of UpNorway, [email protected]

Otro, Oaxaca

Hotels in this culinary and cultural capital of Mexico can often go overboard with handicrafts when it comes to their interiors. The 16-room Otro Oaxaca , from Mexico’s Grupo Habita (which over more than two decades has worked with talented architects and designers, both Mexican and international), opts for a very different look: that of a soothing oasis, at once modernist and inspired by ancient Mesoamerican sites like nearby Mitla. Raw concrete and brick buildings sit on the hotel’s courtyards offering picturesque perspectives while a rooftop terrace has views of the nearby Santo Domingo church, a Baroque gem. The rooms may feel spartan to some, but their simplicity focuses attention on the local elements of their design, like woven bedspreads and reclaimed wood walls. —John Newton

Longfellow Hotel, Portland, Maine

This new independent, family owned and operated hotel takes to heart the philosophy of its namesake, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who once wrote, “In character, in manners, in style, in all things, the supreme excellence is simplicity.” Think less a modernist aesthetic here, more a certain timeless New England restraint. The guest rooms at the Longfellow are comfortable and not flashy, with soaking tubs and views of Portland from TRNK couches. (The design is by Brooklyn-based Post Company, masters of an inviting vintage aesthetic.) The hotel also leans into a wellness theme, with its Astraea spa and healthy menu options at the Twinflower Café. When cocktail hour rolls around at the Five of Clubs lounge, you’ll arrive glowing. —John Newton

To book: Longfellow

Our Method : To compile this list of great-looking new hotels around the world, we followed not whimsy but rules: 1) They had to have opened no earlier than 2023. 2) They had to have been nominated by eithe r T&C ’s well traveled editors or our roundtable of 37 globetrotting travel advisors (preferably both). There were 172 nominees, and 53 made it through our vetting process. Bon voyage!

Klara Glowczewska is the Executive Travel Editor of Town & Country , covering topics related to travel specifically (places, itineraries, hotels, trends) and broadly (conservation, culture, adventure), and was previously the Editor in Chief of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. 

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