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Portland, OR   Travel Guide

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23 Best Things To Do in Portland, OR

If you've seen the comedy "Portlandia," you know Portland, Oregon, as a bike-friendly city that's full of food carts, indie bookstores, farm-to-table restaurants and an embarrassing number of coffee shops. Most of these characterizations are

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Washington Park Washington Park free

Many critics, travelers and locals agree that of all of Portland's parks (and they are numerous), Washington Park is perhaps the best. Washington Park is home to such notable landscaping feats as the Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden , as well as the World Forestry Center, Hoyt Arboretum and several memorials dedicated to pivotal points in Oregon's history.

There are also family-friendly attractions like the Oregon Zoo and the Portland Children's Museum, along with a large playground, soccer fields, tennis courts and an archery range. Just make sure you save plenty of time for a leisurely stroll down one of the many shady paths, which are often decorated with flower displays and fountains.

International Rose Test Garden International Rose Test Garden free

Not until you visit these sprawling gardens in Washington Park will you fully understand the reasoning behind one of Portland's nicknames, the City of Roses. Established in 1917 by Portlander Jesse A. Currey and city leaders, it began as a testing ground for roses from around the world. Today, it is still the oldest continuously operated public rose test garden in the United States.

Home to more than 10,000 rose bushes, the site also boasts a special Shakespeare Garden, which is festooned with roses named after the characters in William Shakespeare's plays. Recently, garden staff have also planted some of the fruit trees that populate the Bard's plays – fig, olive and medlar. Award-winning roses are found in the aptly named Gold Medal Garden. The Test Garden is full of current trial programs that might include miniature roses, David Austin roses (they receive no fungicides or insecticides), and new varieties sent by rose companies for evaluation. If you have your heart set on seeing the roses in full bloom, plan a visit in mid-June.

Portland Japanese Garden Portland Japanese Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make a reservation a few days in advance for the Zen-like Umami Café, which offers Japanese teas and traditional confections like mochi and baked manju. You can't make reservations the day of, and there is often an hourlong or more wait. – Hannah Wallace

If you need an escape from urban landscapes, seek out Zen-like tranquility at the Japanese Garden within Washington Park . The 12-acre Portland Japanese Garden is made up of eight separate gardens that represent different styles of traditional Japanese gardening techniques. All of the gardens feature essential elements like stone, water and plants that come from influences of the Shinto, Buddhist and Taoist philosophies, creating a unique, serene environment where visitors feel they are becoming a part of nature. The garden also features the Kashintei Tea House, where visitors can see demonstrations of a traditional tea ceremony, and a Cultural Village where Ikebana, bonsai care and Japanese music classes take place. If you're visiting in late March or early April, don't miss the chance to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Because of the garden's higher elevation, its trees are on a different blooming schedule than the rest of the city. (Usually a bit later.)

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Powell's City of Books Powell's City of Books free

Whether or not you're an avid reader, Powell's City of Books is worth checking out. Four floors high, it occupies a square city block; in fact, this bookstore is so large that exploring it actually requires a map.

While you wander through the stacks, keep in mind that you are tracing the footsteps of great writers, many of whom – like Ursula K. Le Guin and Neil Gaiman – have scrawled their signatures on the building's pillars. You might also schedule your visit to coincide with a reading, as the book shop hosts events nearly every day totaling more than 500 author visits a year.

Lan Su Chinese Garden Lan Su Chinese Garden

Occupying an entire city block, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is among some of the only authentic Chinese gardens in the country. Modeled after China's Ming dynasty scholars gardens, the Lan Su Chinese Garden aims to be a place where people can escape the hustle of everyday life and connect with nature. In addition to featuring plants and trees native to China as well as an 8,000-square-foot lake, the garden also hosts a variety of Chinese cultural events and festivals, such as the Lunar New Year festival and lantern viewing evenings.

Many recent visitors said the gardens were a highlight of their trip to Portland, describing the space as "tranquil," "stunning" and an "urban oasis." They also highly recommended taking the guided tour, saying it added context to the beautiful and serene setting. Tours are included in the admission price and offered daily at noon and 1 p.m. Others recommended enjoying tea and snacks at the on-site teahouse. A few visitors warned that the area surrounding the garden is home to a large number of homeless people and suggested taking an Uber or Lyft to reach the garden to avoid having to walk within the neighborhood.

Portland's Forest Park Portland's Forest Park free

If you're looking to spend some time outside, but you aren't willing to make the trek to Mount Hood , Forest Park is the place to go. Spanning 5,200 acres, it's one of the largest urban parks in America.

Among the park's features is the 30-mile Wildwood Trail, which is part of the region's 40-mile loop system connecting pedestrian and trail routes along the Columbia River to Gresham through southeast Portland along the Willamette Greenway and back to the Marquam Trail in southwest Portland. To find a trailhead, check out Forest Park Conservancy's online maps or buy a water-resistant trail map at Powell's or a New Seasons Market. If you're an avid bird-watcher, keep your eyes peeled: it's not unusual to spot barred owls, Cooper's hawks or pileated woodpeckers in the tall trees.

Multnomah Falls Multnomah Falls free

If you're willing to venture about 30 miles east of downtown Portland, you'll have access to the tallest waterfall in Oregon  – Multnomah Falls. Located along the Historic Columbia River Highway, the falls are the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, according to the U.S. Forest Service. 

At 620 feet tall, the Multnomah Falls are not for the faint of heart. Visitors have the option of climbing a 1/4-mile trail to reach Benson Bridge, which gives them a closer look at the falls and is at the crux of the first tier. Another steep, 1.25-mile hike will take travelers to the top of the falls for incredible views of the Columbia River Gorge . The Multnomah Falls Lodge, located at the base of the falls, houses a gift shop, restrooms and a restaurant for patrons to enjoy before or after their hike.

Portland Saturday Market Portland Saturday Market free

Whether you're craving international foods or are in search of a unique souvenir, the Portland Saturday Market is the place to look. Running since 1974, the market is located on the northern side of Tom McCall Waterfront Park and features 150 booths filled with art, upcycled clothing, handmade toys, organic soaps, reclaimed wood cutting boards and jewelry – all made by local artisans .

After you've had your fill of shopping, satisfy your appetite at one of the many food booths, which serve everything from Nepalese and Uruguayan to North African and Polish cuisines. There's live music every Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. (Check the market's Instagram to find out who will be performing.) 

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Hoyt Arboretum Hoyt Arboretum free

Founded in 1928, the 189-acre Hoyt Arboretum features over 170 different tree families and 6,000 individual trees. The species represented originate from every continent except Antarctica. Visitors can either explore the arboretum on their own via the park's 12 miles of trails or take a guided tour. Travelers with children will want to check out the family-friendly activities like seed paper workshops and "Tree Time" for preschoolers. There are also adult classes on everything from forest bathing to mushroom identification walks (prices range from $15 to $30).

Past visitors raved about the arboretum and many expressed their surprise that such a tranquil place exists within city limits. Travelers also encouraged future tourists to take their time when exploring the trails and advised planning a trip around one of the arboretum's weekend guided walks.

Mount Hood Mount Hood

On clear days, you can see snowy Mount Hood, the highest mountain in Oregon (at 11,239 feet), from Portland. Mount Hood is the region's prime skiing area, with numerous powdery downhill and cross-country trails. Test your skills on the expert slopes at Mt. Hood Skibowl or hit Mt. Hood Meadows for some of the area's best terrain. Or, get cozy at Timberline Lodge, built thanks to Franklin D. Roosevelt's Works Progress Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps. The historic, stately lodge is also where Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining" was (partially) filmed. Spend the night here in one of 70 rustic rooms, or grab dinner at one of the lodge's seven eateries. 

Planning a summer getaway? Never fear: Mount Hood offers summer skiing as well, not to mention plenty of opportunities to hike and mountain bike. Mount Hood's main summer attraction is the Mt. Hood Adventure Park at Skibowl, which features hiking and biking trails, as well as numerous other warm-weather activities.

Portland Art Museum Portland Art Museum

As the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest, the Portland Art Museum set the bar high for its patrons. It is home to Oregon's most prestigious collection, including works from the European masters, Japanese screen prints and contemporary American pieces. There is also a sculpture garden and an area devoted to photography. But the museum's Native American gallery – which consists of more than 3,500 ancient and modern objects from more than 200 different tribes – is not to be missed.

Recent travelers admit that they got lost in the art at this Portland museum, which is easy to do since the large collection fills three connected buildings. Because the museum is somewhat of a maze to navigate, some travelers recommend figuring out which exhibits you're interested in ahead of time so you know exactly where to go in the museum before arriving (gallery maps can be found online). Others were particularly pleased with the temporary exhibitions, which have showcased the work of artists like Jeffrey Gibson and Oscar Howe, among others.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Whether you need to keep the kids entertained for a few hours or just need a way to spend a rainy day, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is the place to go. This interactive museum (referred to by residents as OMSI) makes learning fun thanks to its five halls and five labs filled with hands-on exhibits devoted to physics, chemistry, paleontology and more. Other interactive offerings include a science playground specifically designed for young children.

And if you're a movie buff, you'll want to make your way to the museum's USS Blueback submarine, which was used to film "The Hunt for Red October," and is the most modern U.S. submarine on public display in the country. When you've exhausted the exhibits, take in a show at the Empirical Theater or marvel at the stars at the Kendall Planetarium. There's also a riverfront eatery on-site, Theory, that serves healthy sandwiches, bowls and salads. Adults will also enjoy OMSI's evening lectures called "Science Pubs" where you can grab a beer and learn about everything from beaver adaptation to weight stigma in healthcare.

Columbia River Gorge Columbia River Gorge free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After a morning hike in the gorge, stop for a late lunch and soft serve at Sugarpine Drive-In on your way back to Portland. Owned by former Portland/Brooklyn chefs Emily Cafazzo and Ryan Domingo, this Troutdale restuarant serves excellent, hearty sandwiches. – Hannah Wallace

The Columbia River flows 1,200 miles from British Columbia to the Pacific Ocean and forms a dramatic border between Washington and Oregon. Both sides offer spectacular views of the gorge – from some spots on the Washington side you can see clear views of Mount Hood . Multnomah Falls is probably the closest scenic attraction as you drive east from Portland. From there, stop in Hood River or White Salmon for lunch or dinner. Both cities have an array of eateries, breweries, ice cream shops and cafes. In White Salmon, make sure to visit the White Salmon Bakery , which makes delicious pastries and breakfast sandwiches (all on its freshly baked bread) and pop over to the owners' new wine shop, Soca , for a bottle of Oregon wine. In Hood River, head to one of a handful of breweries like pFriem Family Brewers, Ferment Brewing Co. or Double Mountain Brewery.

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Portland Mercado Portland Mercado free

Both a community economic development project for Latino entrepreneurs and one of Portland's best food cart pods, Portland Mercado showcases cuisines from Columbia, Cuba, Peru, Oaxaca and the Yucatan.

Past visitors raved about the al pastor burrito at Fernando's Alegria and the chicken mole at the Oaxacan truck. Others were blown away by the patacones (twice-fried plantains) at Qué Bacano, the Columbian truck. Travelers love the vibe as well: colorful trucks, energetic live music and plentiful outdoor seating.

Pittock Mansion Pittock Mansion

The 16,000-square-foot Pittock Mansion is one of Portland's few historic attractions and definitely one of the most unique. Built between 1909 and 1914 by Henry Pittock – the owner of The Oregonian newspaper – and his wife Georgiana, it was designed after the French Renaissance style. This 44-room mansion (of which only 23 are open to the public) contains a Turkish smoking room, a library, a music room and two sleeping porches, among other features.

A monthly behind-the-scenes tour of the mansion ($22) allows you to see parts of the property not usually open to the public like Henry Pittock's private den and the third-floor servants' quarters. Check the mansion's website for details; tours are usually offered on Saturdays. Also, stop by the gift shop, which sells handcrafted items made by local vendors. You can also take a self-guided tour during visiting hours; maps are available at the front entrance and interpretive panels are stationed throughout the mansion.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park Tom McCall Waterfront Park free

Named for a former Oregonian governor, this 30-acre park stretches alongside the Willamette River in downtown Portland and provides some of the best views of the city's skyline. Because of its prime location, it hosts many of Portland's special events – including the ever-popular Oregon Brewers Festival and the Portland Rose Festival.

But even when the city isn't celebrating, there's plenty to do here. Locals congregate for afternoon strolls or picnics and families cool off on hot days at the Salmon Street Springs fountain. The park is also home to some historic monuments like the Founders Stone, the Japanese American Historical Plaza and the Police Memorial. The Portland Saturday Market is held within the park every weekend from March to Christmas Eve. If you're in need of a bite to eat, head to Pine Street Market – a food hall with that sits at the northern end of the park at Second Avenue and Pine Street.

Mount Tabor Park Mount Tabor Park free

Mount Tabor is a dormant volcanic cinder cone located 5 miles east of downtown Portland. It may sound like a trek, but the scenery is well worth it. At its summit, Mount Tabor provides vistas of both downtown and Mount Hood . Travelers can choose one of three trails that takes them to the top of Mount Tabor and around the park. Along the trails, you'll see three reservoirs, which used to be the source of the city's drinking water. If views and hiking don't interest you, maybe this will: Mount Tabor Park is home to the Portland Adult Soapbox Derby. Each year on the third Saturday in August, racers in wacky cars zoom down the park's hills for a chance to win the top spot.

Past travelers relished the long walks they took through Mount Tabor Park. The breathtaking views are repeatedly mentioned by visitors, the sportier of whom run up the 293 stairs. Know that you'll do a lot of uphill walking before you reach that reward, however.

The Central Eastside The Central Eastside free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Food lovers in Portland get their olive oil, grains and Rancho Gordo beans at Wellspent Market , a locally-owned provisions store that also sells a great selection of natural wines, ciders and beer. – Hannah Wallace

Once an industrial neighborhood, the Central Eastside has been percolating over the past six to eight years with breweries, restaurants and even a few stylish boutique hotels. Even if you don't stay at Kex , an Icelandic youth hostel, you should make a visit to its horseshoe-shaped bar, Pacific Standard , which is now manned by respected bartender and author, Jeffrey Morgenthaler. Time your visit for happy hour (3 to 6 p.m.) to enjoy a $2 discount on all menu items, including food.

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Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai

Named after the orphan Pip in Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations," this eclectic little cafe on Fremont Street is where Portlanders go to get their doughnuts and house-made chai. Because these doughnuts are diminutive, you can order four, six, eight or even 12. Regular flavors like cinnamon sugar, raw honey and sea salt, Nutella and candied bacon maple are justly popular, but don't skip the seasonal flavors, which in summer months always include local berries and peaches.

A decade ago, owners Jamie and Nate Snell used their life savings to start their doughnut shop, and when banks would not give them a $10,000 loan they felt like orphans, and sought help from friends and family. (Hence the name, Pip's.) They've put a lot of love into it – Nate was the general contractor and Jamie did the design and painted the clouds that cover the walls. A fun Portland touch: On your birthday you can come in and get a dozen doughnuts for free.

Portland, Oregon, Brewery Tours Portland, Oregon, Brewery Tours

Portland is well-known for its craft beers. In fact, there are roughly 70 breweries in the city proper, meaning there are plenty of places to quench your thirst. Though you're welcome to stop by the breweries on your own, taking a guided brewery tour might be a better bet if you're only in Portland for a quick trip (and want someone else to worry about transportation). The tours generally stop at a few different breweries in the city, allowing participants to sample several different kinds of beer. Outings are offered at various days and times; check with a specific operator to learn more. Most tours last around 2 1/2 hours, though City Brew Tours offers experiences that range from three to five hours. Keep in mind that people younger than 21 are not allowed on the tours. For more information, visit the individual tour operators' websites.

City Brew Tours , which travels by van, wins accolades from past tourgoers for its knowledgeable guides and wide range of beer samples. For the company's Original Brew Tour, which lasts approximately five hours, the $129 ticket price includes beer samples at four breweries and a meal at either Migration or Ex Novo, two local breweries.

PSU Farmers Market PSU Farmers Market free

If you're in Portland on a Saturday, make a morning stop at the PSU Farmers Market. In addition to just-picked local produce, vendors peddle meat, beverages (including alcohol), dairy products, mushrooms, chocolate and more. Talented musicians typically busk for tips.

Past visitors said the market is worth walking through even if you don't plan on buying produce. Others were impressed with the smoked fish, excellent Jewish rye and beautiful flowers for sale. Travelers also raved about the prepared foods at the market, including tamales, breakfast burritos, cookies and more.

Oregon Zoo Oregon Zoo

Explore some of the world's cutest, ferocious and exotic critters at the Oregon Zoo. The zoo houses more than 2,500 animals representing more than 200 different species ranging from reptiles to big cats to insects. In 2021, the zoo opened new habitats for rhinos, primates and polar bears, which were the final improvements after a decade-long expansion project. Along with the animal exhibits, there are also behind-the-scenes tours, as well as a train and carousel.

Recent visitors reported loving the zoo for its manageable size and animal residents (especially the elephants). Reviewers say you should expect to spend about two to four hours exploring. A few travelers were frustrated to learn that advance ticket purchase is required, and a few griped about the cost of parking.

Freakybuttrue Peculiarium Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

You can tell when entering this art gallery/museum/gift shop that the owners, Mike Wellins and Lisa Freeman, love science fiction, horror, cryptozoology, unsolved urban legends and the mysterious. Wellins calls the Peculiarium an anti-museum: you won't find sterile rooms with squeaky floors or frowning guards. What you will find? Everything from an alien autopsy to a theremin, ghosts, D.B. Cooper and two (faux) vampire killing kits. At the adjacent snack bar, you can try Freeman's Frankenballs, Franken Fries and her famous Bug Sundaes (Tillamook ice cream with freeze-dried mealworms and cooked scorpions – stingers removed – on top). 

Visitors say that you definitely "Keep Portland Weird" in this quirky art museum/gift shop with pop horror displays and grotesqueries. Past visitors recommend checking out the gift shop first, and if you're amused, go ahead and pay admission to the museum. Otherwise, it may not be for you.

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16 Best Things to Do in Portland, Oregon

By Jen Stevenson

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

Click the link to read our complete Portland city guide.

Forest Park Arrow

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

Portland Japanese Garden Arrow

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

Spartan Shop Arrow

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

Providence Park Arrow

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

Shannon McMahon

Chris Schalkx

Caitlin Morton

Emily Pennington

Oregon Zoo Arrow

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

Portland Farmers Market Arrow

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

International Rose Test Garden Arrow

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

Jamison Square Arrow

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

Powell's City of Books Arrow

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

Providore Fine Foods Arrow

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

Washington Park Arrow

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

Lan Su Chinese Garden Arrow

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

Cargo Arrow

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

Beam & Anchor Arrow

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

Pedal Bike Tours Arrow

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

Little Beast Brewing Arrow

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

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The 17 best things to do in Portland right now

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

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

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

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

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Fun things to do in Portland

1.  Voodoo Doughnut

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

2.  Bike tours of Portland

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

3.  Portland Art Museum

• Greater Portland

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

4.  Powell’s City of Books

• Jefferson Street

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

5.  Multnomah Whiskey Library

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

6.  Portland Saturday Market

• Attractions

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

7.  International Rose Test Garden

• Parks and gardens
• Arlington Heights

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

8.  Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

• Central Eastside

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

9.  Portland Center Stage

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

10.  Revolution Hall

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

11.  Nong’s Khao Man Gai

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

12.  Pittock Mansion

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

13.  White Stag Sign

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

14.  Pioneer Courthouse Square

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

15.  Forest Park

• Willamette Heights

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

16.  Oregon Historical Society

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

17.  The Shanghai Tunnels Virtual Tour

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

More great things to do in Portland

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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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The best time to visit Portland, Oregon

Feb 11, 2021 • 6 min read

April 3, 2011: Visitors gather under cherry blossom trees in full bloom at the Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

With its famously grey, misty weather, Portland gives destinations like Seattle and Ireland a run for their money on lush, green, rainy climes. But the city is well-adapted to its environment, with a host of things to do and see in all seasons, from festivals and outdoor recreation in the sunny summer months to concerts, literary readings, restaurants and museums when the clouds roll in during winter and spring.

Here’s our guide to help you decide the perfect time to visit Portland, Oregon.

Editor's note: During COVID-19, please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government health advice. Events may be subject to change.

High Season: June to September

Best time for exploring the outdoors.

Everyone’s eager to greet the sun during Portland's summer season. From June to September, there's a wealth of destinations for outdoor recreation where you can take advantage of the warm, cloudless weather. And as summer draws to a close, the city celebrates another great high season with a flurry of festivals well-worth experiencing.

Hiking trails may be more crowded as visitors and locals alike fan out to popular spots in the Columbia River Gorge and on Mt Hood – not to mention coastal towns like Astoria and Cannon Beach. That said, there's plenty of places to find your solitude outdoors, too, from  Tryon Creek State Natural Area to the Coast Range west of Portland.

Shoulder Season: March to May, September to November

Best time for photographers, foodies, and wildflowers

Shoulder season can be a mixed bag in Portland – with a chance of cloudy, rainy weather balanced by milder temperatures. In spring, Portland is awash with wildflowers and delicate blooms that draw you outside, while in fall festivals, food trucks, and restaurants provide fun transitions from outdoor to indoor life. 

In both shoulder seasons, meanwhile, the slightly diffused light and wide range of activities give photographers ample conditions to work with. You'll find slightly cheaper hotel prices, too, and fewer tourists at popular spots like Multnomah Falls.

Low Season: November to March

Best time for coffee, culture, and concerts

The joke from the popular TV series Portlandia is that the 1990s never ended in Stumptown, and it's easy to see why during the winter months. Coffee shops, concerts, and cultural events like cozy literary readings at Powell's bookshop are the perfect way to dodge rain showers and stay connected to the city's vibrant, diverse scenes.

Quirky attractions like the Vacuum Cleaner Museum , a plethora of independent movie theaters , and countless pubs, dive bars, breweries, and cafes give you a place to warm up. 

Portland's live music scene remains rich, too, from classic venues like the Crystal Ballroom to hip spots like Doug Fir Lounge . You can see everything from a Latinx cumbia show to heavy metal to living room indie rock – not to mention the national tours that come through.

Portland kicks off the new year with dreary days and threats of snow. Reflect on your resolutions with a cup of coffee in the countless cafes or head to Mt Hood for winter sports. Key events:  Fertile Ground Festival.

Though ever dark and freezing, the shortest month of the year speeds by as Portland's festivals start to ramp up. You can bet on solid hotel deals, especially at boutiques.  Key events:  Portland International Film Festival , Japanese Mochitsuki Festival, Vietnamese Tet Festival, Chinese New Year Festival.

March is a great time to score shoulder season accommodation rates. Weather is a wild card: freezing temperatures and late-season snow aren't completely out of character, but neither are sporadic sunny (but still chilly) days. Almost guaranteed, however, is steady rainfall. Wondrous displays of trillium, a wild marsh lily, appear in Tryon Creek State Natural Area late in the month. Key events:  Portland Dining Month, Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival .

Portland is awash with cherry blossoms, azaleas, rhododendrons, tulips and more. The faucet in the sky starts to slow and sunny days become more frequent. Key events:  The  Japanese Currents  film festival, the Portland  Saturday Market .

With mostly dry days and plenty of sunshine, this is a delightful time to visit Portland. Peep at Mt Hood from promontories like the Pittock Mansion and Council Crest, or take a ride on the Aerial Tram from the south waterfront to Marquam Hill to catch some of the best views. Or make the most of the sunshine and catch an early Timbers or Thorns soccer game at Providence Park. Get here before Memorial Day (last Monday of the month) for the last hotel deals before summer. Key events:  Portland Rose Festival , the Portland Cannabis Cup.

Summer kicks off with plenty of outdoor festivals, queer pride and a flock of naked cyclists in the streets. Days are warm, sunny and long (it's light until 9pm), and nights are wonderfully temperate. Key events:   Portland Pride Festival , Pedalpalooza (aka, the Naked Bike Ride), Portland International Beerfest, Oregon Zoo Summer Concert series, Juneteenth.

From films to music to beer, the city's outdoor festivals really ramp up. Peak summertime in Portland means steep hotel prices. Key events:   Oregon Brewers Festival ,  Waterfront Blues Festival , Cathedral Park Jazz Festival,  The Big Float , Portland Highland Games, Portland Zine Symposium.

The country's greenest music festival, an adult soapbox derby and a community bike ride across Portland's bridges mark the final weeks of Portland's summer. Key events:  Bridge Pedal, Pickathon , Portland Adult Soapbox Derby , the  Hood to Coast  running relay race.

As summer winds down, Portland soaks up the last of the summer sunshine and starts to transition to indoor activities centered around the cities many restaurants, pubs, breweries, coffee shops, and cozy independent cinemas. Key events:   Feast Portland , Portland Fresh Hops Fest, Art in the Pearl, Rose City Comic Con, El Grito Fiestas Patrias.

The skies cloud back over and it's time to head inside for live music, pub games, and culture series at venues like Wonder Ballroom  , Aladdin Theater, Crystal Ballroom , and the Moda Center. There are still some chances to get outdoors, though – like the annual Giant Pumpkin Regatta , an unusual event that, yes, involves watching rowers seated in gigantic pumpkins race across a lake. Key events:  The Portland Film Festival, West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta, Portland Queer Film Festival.

As Portland cozies up for winter, it's time to celebrate the city's bookish nature with literary events at Powell's Bookstore, where it's common to see locals curled up with a tome or two and a cup of coffee. Now's the time to take advantage of the city's museums, whether you're interested in fine art or quirky stops like the Vacuum Cleaner Museum. The low season means hotel deals for bookings before Thanksgiving (the fourth Thursday of the month). Key events:   Portland Book Festival .

Is there a month that goes by in Portland without a beer festival? Technically yes, but this city loves its hops and it's no surprise Portland loves to toast the holidays with a pint or two of craft brews. Be sure to pay a visit to favorites like Deschutes, Ecliptic, Occidental, Breakside, and McMenamins. December days may be damp and overcast, but Portland is set aglow with twinkling lights and seasonal events, including a beer festival under the city's holiday tree. Key events:  the Holiday Ale Festival ,  ZooLights.

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Portland, Oregon

Written by Chloë Ernst and Brad Lane Updated Mar 18, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Portland, the largest city in Oregon, straddles the Willamette River and is considered by many to be one of the most desirable places to live in the United States. It's a combination of creative culture and flourishing city attractions that brings flocks of tourists and soon-to-be residents to The City of Roses.

Perhaps to compensate for the damp Pacific Northwest winters, visitors will find a wealth of cultural happenings, musical entertainment, theater, and a selection of other fun things to do in Portland . And those same rains nourish the city's impressive gardens, one of the city's top attractions. Green spaces range from colorful plantings of roses and rhododendrons to a classical Chinese garden.

Portland's proximity to other major Pacific Northwest destinations also adds to its popularity. From the Oregon Coast to Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, epic Oregon adventures are less than two hours in any direction.

Discover the best places to visit in this culture-rich city with our list of the top attractions in Portland, Oregon.

See also: Where to Stay in Portland

1. Washington Park

2. columbia river gorge national scenic area, 3. pittock mansion, 4. international rose test garden, 5. forest park, 6. powell's city of books, 7. portland japanese garden, 8. portland art museum, 9. lan su chinese garden, 10. oregon museum of science and industry, 11. oregon zoo, 12. crystal springs rhododendron garden, 13. portland saturday market, 14. mount tabor park, where to stay in portland for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to portland, best time to visit portland, oregon.

Portland's Washington Park contains a number of tourist attractions, including the famed International Rose Test Garden, a zoo, and museums. A one-time wild land first purchased by the city in 1871, it is located to the west of the city center. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring the park's attractions, and another strolling through the unusual gardens.

The well-known International Rose Test Garden is where new varieties of roses are grown. In the city's mild climate, roses continue to flower into autumn, though visitors will want to catch an annual Rose Festival in May and June.

The Portland Japanese Garden is another all-day escape in Washington Park. It's one of the largest outside Japan and is landscaped on the grounds of an old zoo.

Other popular things to do in the park include visiting the present-day zoo, the Portland Children's Museum , and Hoyt Arboretum . The Oregon Zoo at Washington Park features animals from across the world, including African crocodiles, American beavers, and Asian elephants. The Hoyt Arboretum is comprised of 190 forested acres and features 12 miles of hiking trails.

Address: 4033 Southwest Canyon Road, Portland, Oregon

The Columbia River marks the Oregon-Washington state border, and its entire length is a remarkable sightseeing region ideal for leisurely drives and enjoying the outdoors.

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is one of the top day trip destinations from Portland , covering an immense 292,500 acres along the Pacific Northwest's largest river. The trip takes in locks, viewpoints, and hiking trails.

Many visitors like to stop and photograph the waterfalls that edge the route, including the towering Multnomah Falls (which flows year-round), lovely Oneonta Gorge , and Latourell Falls in Guy W. Talbot State Park.

Other places to visit include Vista House at Crown Point and the Angel's Rest hiking trail. Camping is available in the gorge at Ainsworth State Park.

Just west of downtown Portland, this grand home was built in 1914 by Henry Pittock - founder of the Oregonian newspaper. Pittock lived here for only five years until his death in 1919 at the age of 80.

The house, set for demolition in the 1960s, brought the community together as they persuaded the City of Portland to purchase the home. Through private fundraising, the mansion was restored to its full glory, and it is because of this forward-thinking of residents that visitors have a chance to tour this impressive and eclectic home today.

Especially for its day, the Pittock Mansion had many impressive features, including a central vacuum system, intercoms, and indirect lighting. The home is set on 46 acres and at an elevation 1,000 feet above Portland. This allows for exceptional views of the city on clear days.

During its heyday, the home was also known for its impressive gardens. That trend continues today, plus the house is mid-way between Washington Park , Hoyt Arboretum , and the many trails of expansive Forest Park.

Address: 3229 NW Pittock Drive, Portland, Oregon

Official site: http://pittockmansion.org/

The Rose Test Garden in Portland's Washington Park was founded in 1917 and is the oldest continuously operated public rose test garden in the United States. The grounds are divided up into several sections with many interesting plants and spaces to explore. The garden develops new rose varieties and even miniatures, and past award winners are planted in what is known as the Gold Award Garden , which also features a lovely gazebo.

It's best to visit during the late spring bloom. On blue sky days, Portland's city center and Mount Hood are in clear view from the gardens. Parking is often competitive at the International Rose Test Garden, but the city provides expansive public transit options to reach the park.

Another lovely Portland rose garden - Peninsula Park Rose Garden - is set in a sunken landscape on the other side of the river.

Address: 850 SW Rose Garden Way, Portland, Oregon

Forest Park flanks the west side of the city and provides more than 5,000 acres of Northwest forest to explore, providing an easy escape from the urban environment. It covers the eastern slope of the Tualatin Mountains and is one of the largest urban parks in the country. The park is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation.

The park is home to many of the best hiking trails in the Portland area and contains more than 80 miles of hiking and walking trails. First-time visitors should bring a map to help navigate. The 30-mile Wildwood Trail is popular, as it connects with other pedestrian paths that circumnavigate the city.

Another popular loop is the Maple Trail Loop , which highlights some of the tallest flora in the park. The iconic Pittock Mansion is also accessible with a hike through Forest Park starting from Lower Macleay Park.

Address: NW 29th Avenue and Upshur Street to Newberry Road, Portland, Oregon

Bibliophiles will love exploring more than a million books at this legendary used bookstore. Shelves mix new titles with used copies for a slightly haphazard but welcoming feel.

Staff picks, clever displays, and plenty of space to lean against a corner and read make choosing a book easier to do. The Burnside location also features a roomy coffeeshop with plenty of space to sit and read your new book selection.

The events calendar at Powell's Books has something nearly every day, including author readings, panel discussions, writing workshops , and many different types of book clubs . This shop on Burnside Street is one of five of the independent chain's locations in the Portland area, and easily the largest.

Address: 1005 W. Burnside Street, Portland, Oregon

Official site: http://www.powells.com/

Encompassing 12 acres within Washington Park, Portland's Japanese Garden is located on the grounds of an old zoo. It was first opened to the public in 1961 and built to give the citizens of Portland a place to find serenity in their day and to recognize the growing cultural ties between Oregon and Japan. Both impressions remain today at the Japanese Garden, and the area is beautifully laid out in a variety of styles that offer a uniquely peaceful experience for visitors.

Garden spaces include the picture-like Flat Garden , the Strolling Pond Garden , and a Tea Garden complete with a lovely ceremonial teahouse. Events at the garden include cultural demonstrations, lecture series, and mindfulness tours. The Umami Café at the garden features tea and Japanese finger foods served in a bright and modern cafeteria.

Address: 611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, Oregon

The Portland Art Museum is the oldest museum in the Pacific Northwest, founded in 1892. It has since amassed a substantial and varied collection. The number of items exceeds 50,000, and only a small portion is displayed in more than 112,000 square feet of gallery space .

Highlights include Native American artifacts, graphic arts, English silver, Asian art, photography, and Northwest art. One of the Portland Art Museum's most notable pieces is Vincent Van Gogh's Cart with Black Ox .

The Northwest Film Center and the visual-arts-focused Crumpacker Family Library are also part of the museum . Free days are offered at the museum in the evenings on the first Thursday of every month.

Address: 1219 SW Park Ave, Portland, Oregon

Official site: http://portlandartmuseum.org/

The Lan Su Chinese Garden opened in the year 2000 to shed light on Chinese culture and history after the city developed a relationship with its sister city of Suzhou, China.

This tranquil environment blends rocks, plants, trees, gardens, and a lake on about 40,000 square feet, roughly a city block, of land in central Portland. Artisans came from Suzhou to construct traditional buildings and walkways, and native Chinese plants were imported.

Completing the garden is a lovely tea house. Guided and self-guided tours are available, and special events like mahjong, tai chi, and tea tastings also occur on a regular basis. Personal cameras are encouraged at the gardens, but tripods are not allowed.

Address: 239 NW Everett Street, Portland, Oregon

Official site: http://www.lansugarden.org/

The OMSI complex in Portland includes a theater with a four-story screen, a planetarium , a US Navy submarine, and educational hands-on displays. Among the galleries, visitors find colorful, entertaining, and educational exhibits for young children, as well as hands-on and interactive displays for all ages . Some of the fields cover energy, the environment, health, chemistry, engineering, and technology.

Docked just outside the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is the USS Blueback , a non-nuclear submarine that was in use for more than 30 years. This submarine was featured in the movie Hunt for Red October . Today, visitors can climb aboard for a guided tour.

Address: 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, Oregon

Official site: www.omsi.edu

Located in Washington Park, Oregon Zoo features hundreds of species, including many birds and marine animals like Steller sea lions and sea otters. Animals from around the world are represented here, from the African savannah to the Amazon and Arctic. One man, Richard Knight, put together a private collection of animals and began the zoo in the late 1800s.

Visitors may also want to take the time to learn about the Oregon Zoo's conservation programs and research, as one of the primary focuses is on preserving the species of the Pacific Northwest.

The Oregon Zoo features special behind-the-scenes tours that include animal interactions and a look at the operations of the facility. The zoo also hosts a wide range of camps, classes, and after-school programs.

Address: 4001 SW Canyon Road, Portland, Oregon

Official site: www.oregonzoo.org

Beyond the Pacific Northwest's rhododendrons, this Portland garden also contains azaleas, Japanese maples, dogwood, and magnolias on almost ten acres of land . While the main attraction is, of course, the spring blooms, when the colors are simply incredible , the spectacle continues into early summer.

The gardens are just as popular for waterfowl, and hundreds of species of birds are spotted in the park throughout the year. In winter, admission is free, and the garden becomes a peaceful place to spend some time.

The many lovely features of the garden include waterfalls and ponds, along with several coniferous trees. For anyone looking for a great place to volunteer their time and meet other community members, regular Wednesday work parties occur at the garden from February through November.

Address: 6015 SE 28th Ave, Portland, Oregon

The Portland Saturday Market was founded in 1974 and has evolved to become one of the city's largest open-air artist markets with over a million visitors each year. Today, the market occurs between the beginning of March and Christmas Eve in the Old Town Chinatown district, next to the Willamette River.

Over 250 vendors set up each Saturday morning. These local purveyors sell all types of arts and crafts, ranging from woodworks to jewelry and including illustrations, souvenirs, and home décor. It's completely free to visit the Portland Saturday Market, except for parking. The market is very accessible via bicycle or public transportation.

And it's not only arts and crafts at the Portland Saturday Market. Packaged foods like organic tea and artisan caramels add their flavors to the stalls, while a lively food court wafts the aroma of coffee and breakfast entrees. And live music throughout the entire market adds a lovely soundtrack to the community event.

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

Mount Tabor is a dormant volcano in Southeast Portland surrounded by a city park. It's named after an Israeli peak and has been a public park since 1903. The famous landscape architect, John C. Olmsted helped design the park, which today still features several scenic trails, monuments, and long gardens of native plants.

The park is one of the most popular in Portland to enjoy a sunny day. The park encompasses nearly 200 acres, offering plenty of space to roam and discover something new. A few other park attractions include basketball and tennis courts, statues and public art, and a fantastic sunset view atop the summit.

The best place to stay in Portland for fun and sightseeing is right downtown. The city center is relatively compact, and staying here will put you in reasonable proximity to many of the major attractions. Nearby is Nob Hill with trendy restaurants and boutiques. Below is a list of highly- rated hotels in convenient locations :

Luxury Hotels :

• One of the most highly rated hotels in the city is the recently renovated RiverPlace, a Kimpton hotel. This boutique hotel lies along the beautiful Willamette River, adjacent to the Waterfront Park, a perfect place for a stroll.
• Another good option is the Embassy Suites by Hilton in the heart of downtown, near Old Town Chinatown.
• The Sentinel is also a popular choice, just up the street from Powell's Books, one of Portland's landmarks.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Just a little outside the main downtown area but close to the chic Pearl District is the Residence Inn . This recently renovated property is an extended-stay hotel with large suites.
• The Courtyard by Marriott downtown has an excellent location and offers good-value accommodation.
• Fans of unique properties will like the Ace Hotel with its clawfoot bathtubs and funky interior decor.

Budget Hotels:

• The Crystal Hotel is a hip option with unique decor and a saltwater pool, in a good location downtown.
• Another popular hotel is the Econo Lodge , near Portland State University and the Portland Art Museum, known for being good value.
• The Park Lane Suites and Inn offers both regular rooms and large suites, making it a good option for budget-minded families. It's also conveniently located near Washington Park, which is home to many of the city's attractions, including the Portland Japanese Garden, the zoo, Portland Children's museum, and the Hoyt Arboretum.

Sightseeing Tours :

• A great way to explore the city without the hassle of parking and finding your way around is the Portland Sightseeing Tour Including Columbia Gorge Waterfalls . Enjoy the convenience of being picked up from your hotel in a bus and seeing all the city highlights, with interesting insider information from an expert guide. On this full-day tour, you'll learn about Portland's food cart culture and visit the city's different neighborhoods and top attractions, including the beautiful Columbia Gorge waterfalls.
• If you're short on time, the Best of Portland Small-Group Sightseeing Tour is a half-day tour in a luxury van or SUV. The tour also includes a convenient pickup from your downtown hotel as well as fresh pastries, seasonal snacks, and a naturalist guide, who shares fascinating information about the parks, gardens, and city landmarks.
• For a more on-the-ground-style sightseeing adventure, the Portland Segway Tour gives you the flexibility of either a one-hour riverfront tour or a two-hour tour. The longer tour adds even more attractions, such as the Pearl District and Powell's Books, to the same riverside itinerary.
• Oregon is famous for its spectacular wilderness areas, and a fun and easy way to see them is on a day trip from Portland. The Mt. Hood Day Trip from Portland to Multnomah Falls and Hood River is a fun way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without the worry of navigating your way and researching the top destinations. Board the coach from your downtown hotel on this full-day tour, and sit back and relax as your guide leads you through the highlights of the scenic Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood area, including waterfalls, the Cascade Mountains, and the pretty town of Hood River.

The best time to visit Portland depends on what you plan to do when you get here. The time of year and the weather in Portland can be significant factors when planning your trip. The summer season shines with postcard appeal. The winter and shoulder seasons do live up to its rainy reputation, but many would consider it just a drizzle.

The best time of year to go to Portland is during the summer, when the City of Roses is on full display. The gardens are in bloom, the skies are sunny, and the city is alive with local markets and outdoor concerts.

The summer months see the least amount of rainfall , so it's a great time to get in hikes at Mount Hood and the best opportunity to see the International Rose Test Garden and the Japanese Garden in Washington Park at their peak.

While summer is the best time to visit Portland it is also the high tourist season. That means more people on the ground and high rates for hotels and airfare. If you plan to visit in the summer, you should find a place to stay and book hotel rooms several months in advance to ensure availability.

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Other Oregon Cities : East of Portland, in the Columbia River Gorge, the city of Hood River is gaining notoriety as the windsurfing capital of the West Coast. South of Portland in the Willamette Valley, the state capital of Salem features great manicured spaces, including an ornate state capitol building. For some Southern Oregon adventures, the Shakespearean city of Ashland entices travelers with its attractions and festivals.

More on Oregon

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Washington Park

Sveta Imnadze / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Lan Su Chinese Garden

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Pittock Mansion

Png Studio Photography / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry

Checubus / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Portland Japanese Garden

Randall Runtsch / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Forest Park

Dee Browning / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. The Grotto

ARTYOORAN / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Oregon Zoo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Powell’s City of Books

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

Look no further than Powell’s City of Books !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Shanghai Tunnels

Keary O. / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. International Rose Test Garden

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

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

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

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

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

Different gardens and locations add variety.

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

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

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

It’s all very delightful!

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

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

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

13. Hoyt Arboretum

Wasim Muklashy / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

12 miles of trails allow easy exploration throughout Hoyt Arboretum.

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

Better yet, it’s all nonprofit-run!

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

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

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

14. Tom McCall Waterfront Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. The Witch’s Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Portland Art Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Multnomah Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Oregon 97014, United States

19. Cathedral Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

The instructions for finding it are hidden and kept secret.

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

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20. World Forestry Center Discovery Museum

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

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

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

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

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

Looking for fun things to do in Portland?

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

21. Portland Farmers Market at PSU

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

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

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

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

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

Address: Hood River, OR 97031, United States

23. Pioneer Courthouse Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

24. Portland Troll Bridge

Portland Troll Bridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are even some trolls painted on the bridge itself!

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

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

25. Oregon Historical Society Museum

The Oregon Historical Society Museum is situated in downtown Portland.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Mill Ends Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. Mount Tabor Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. Portland Saturday Market

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

The Portland Saturday Market is an excellent place to start.

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

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

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

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

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

29. Downtown Park Blocks

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Looking for things to do in downtown Portland?

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

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

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

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

These include statues of Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.

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

The Downtown Park Blocks are perfect for photography.

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

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

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

30. National Hat Museum

National Hat Museum

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

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

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

The Reingolds were an eccentric bunch.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

31. Mount Hood

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

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

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

Climbing Mount Hood is a risky endeavor.

Fumaroles on the summit can suffocate you.

Melting snow and loose rock can make you slip.

Falling ice could injure you.

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

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

Address: Oregon 97041, United States

32. Providence Park

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

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

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

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

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

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33. Portland Aerial Tram

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

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

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

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

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

34. Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden

Erin / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

35. Wishing Tree

Wishing Tree

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

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

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

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

And the rest, as they say, is history.

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

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

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

36. Brewery Tours

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

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

Take a brewery tour!

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

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

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

Want specific recommendations?

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

37. Windows of Wonders

Bunny with a Toolbelt

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

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

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

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

The displays vary, ranging from animals to fantasy creatures.

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

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

38. Morrison Street Minigallery

Morrison Street Minigallery

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

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

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

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

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

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

39. Stark’s Vacuum Museum

Stark’s Vacuum Museum

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

Take the Stark’s Vacuum Museum , for example!

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. Lincoln Street Kayak & Canoe Museum

Lincoln Street Kayak & Canoe Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Portland, Oregon

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

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

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

Happy travels.

Portland, Oregon sits at the northern part of the state at the head of the great Willamette Valley. It’s the largest city in the state of Oregon and the second largest city in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The town emerged in the early 1800’s as folks ventured to the end of the Oregon Trail. They were mesmerized by the astounding beauty of the area as well as the rich soils and bountiful plant life. The Columbia River flows on Portland’s northern edge and as been a huge port area for hundreds of years. (The Native Americans used the Columbia River as a port area long before American settlers came into the region.)

Washington Park

Pittock mansion, portland japanese garden, world forestry center, uss blueback submarine, stumptown coffee.

Are you a coffee lover? Many people think of coffee when they think of Portland. It’s the coffee central of the country! If you’re looking for a good roast, then check out the famous Stumptown Coffee located in downtown Portland. This place puts other famous coffee chains to shame. It’s worth standing in line for a caramel coffee latte or for just a classic cup of joe. They have many different flavor varieties with their coffees. They’re known for creating the infamous latte art that is often displayed on Instagram posts. Not only does the coffee look pretty, it tastes pretty too! Be sure to stop by Stumptown Coffee!

Pioneer Courthouse Square

While you’re in Portland, you have to check out the Pioneer Courthouse Square! This place is often considered to be the city’s living room. It’s downtown and huge! With over 40,000 square feet, it has plenty of space for folks to hang out. There’s cool features as well! If you play chess, you’ll enjoy the unique outdoor chess table. Close by, there’s the large fountain that resembles that of a white roaring waterfall. And in the direct center of the square? There’s an amphitheatre that provides an incredible platform for performers of all kinds. With 24 steps to sit on, it’s a great place to listen to a band, watch a theatrical performance and more. What makes this place very special is the names that are engraved on the bricks. The local citizens each chipped in to have their bricks paid for and donated to the construction of the site. It’s a great place to congregate and to sip on your latte.

The Oregon Zoo

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First Lady Jill Biden to visit Portland for private fundraiser Thursday afternoon

• Updated: May. 09, 2024, 4:57 p.m. |
• Published: May. 09, 2024, 8:52 a.m.

First lady Jill Biden attends a luncheon in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in April. She will visit Portland for a few hours on Thursday afternoon to attend a private fundraiser. Joel Bissell | MLive.com

• Sami Edge | The Oregonian/OregonLive

First Lady Jill Biden will visit Portland on Thursday afternoon for a private fundraiser, and her motorcade could snarl traffic.

Portland Police won’t release details about what route she might take, saying to do so could jeopardize her safety.

Biden will arrive at Portland International Airport around 1 p.m. and drive into Portland for a 2 p.m. event. White House officials said. The first lady’s motorcade will head back to the airport starting around 2:30 p.m.

Portland Police won’t confirm whether they’re planning for road closures or delays.

Biden is scheduled to head from Portland to California on Thursday afternoon, then make stops in Arizona on Friday and Saturday.

This post will be updated if additional commuter disruptions are announced.

Sami Edge covers higher education and politics for The Oregonian. You can reach her at [email protected] or (503) 260-3430.

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First Lady Jill Biden makes rare visit to Oregon for Lake Oswego event

by Shelby Slaughter, KATU Staff

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — First Lady Jill Biden landed in Portland around 1 p.m. Thursday to speak at an event in Lake Oswego.

She gave a speech at a fundraiser attended by about 80 people. Biden spent just over 30 minutes at the event before heading back to the airport.

Oregon leaders, Gov. Tina Kotek, Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson and Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler greeted the first lady as she got off her plane.

“It’s nice to see the first lady supporting our city and taking an interest in what we do here," Wheeler told KATU.

Kotek also joined Biden at the fundraiser.

The visit came just days before Oregon's primary election. Wheeler said the election will be an interesting one to watch.

"It's going to be loud; it's going to be aggressive, and I think by the time it's done, we will all be very grateful," he said.

Biden didn't stay long in Oregon. She left to California to attend more events. Her last stop out west will be in Arizona, where she will attend an event in Phoenix.

Woman stabs passing cars with knife, sets parked car on fire in SW Portland

A woman who stabbed two cars with a knife and set another car on fire, destroying it, has been arrested, Portland police said.

Police responded to a call around noon Thursday that claimed a woman was running in traffic with a knife near Southwest Barbur Boulevard and 26th Avenue, in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Patrol officers found the woman, and saw signs she was in a mental crisis, so they called out a specially trained crisis-intervention officer to talk to her, the Portland Police Bureau said. That officer eventually convinced the woman, Elishama Mathews, 42, to throw away her knife and let herself be arrested.

While the crisis-intervention officer was getting Mathews to surrender, police learned a parked car wast on fire nearby. Firefighters put out the blaze, which completely destroyed the car, according to a photo of the aftermath provided by police.

Police investigated and concluded Mathews likely had stabbed two passing cars with her knife and set the parked car on fire.

Mathews was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on a second-degree arson charge, two menacing charges and two charges of second-degree criminal mischief.

Just over one year ago, Mathews was accused of setting fire to the car of a man who had a stalking order against her, court records show. That charge was ultimately dismissed, but she pleaded guilty to violating the stalking order and to first-degree criminal mischief.

— Fedor Zarkhin is a breaking news and enterprise reporter with a focus on crime. Reach him at 971-373-2905; fzarkhin@oregonian.

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School of Social Work

Currently Accolades: Presented for May 6, 2024

by Currently May 3rd 2024 Share

• Rowanna Carpenter , University Studies, and Vicki Reitenauer , Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies faculty, presented "Improvisatory Leadership: Catalyzing Transformation from the Institutional Margins" on Apr. 22 at the Gender Advocacy and Inclusion Network (GAIN) conference in Seaside, OR.
• Berrin Erdogan , Business faculty, conducted a research workshop titled “Crafting the Introduction” and presented “Manager Reactions at Employee Overqualification” on Mar. 18-19 at the University of Exeter in the UK. 
• Thea Prieto , English, presented at the Climate Fiction Booktalk and read from her novella, From the Caves, on Apr. 26 at Portland Community College's Earth Week 2024 in Portland, Oregon.
• Pronoy Rai , Geography faculty, presented “The Labor Geographies of Climate Adaptation in Rural Western India” on Apr. 19 at the American Association of Geographers annual meeting in Honolulu.
• Lainey Sevillano , Social Work faculty, presented “Visiting Scholar Flash Talks: Pilipinx American Health” at the University of Washington School of Social Work in Seattle.
• Sue Taylor , Art History faculty emerita, presented a lecture on "Alice Neel and the Politics of Figure Painting" on Apr. 21 for the Oregon Alliance for the National Museum of Women in the Arts at Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, Oregon.