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

  • All Things To Do
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  • 2-Day Itinerary
  • 3-Day Itinerary

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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.

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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.

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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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Popular Tours

Half-Day Columbia River Gorge and Waterfall Hiking Tour

Half-Day Columbia River Gorge and Waterfall Hiking Tour

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from $ 67.00

Full-Day Guided Oregon Coast Tour from Portland

Full-Day Guided Oregon Coast Tour from Portland

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from $ 129.00

2.5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River

2. 5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River

(292 reviews)

from $ 127.00

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland, OR

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from $ 89.00

2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River

2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River

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from $ 86.00

Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls & Mt Hood Tour from Portland, OR

Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls & Mt Hood Tour from Portland, OR

(395 reviews)

from $ 149.00

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Columbia Gorge Waterfalls and Mt. Hood Tour - Full Day

(63 reviews)

Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland

Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland

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Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine Included

Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine Included

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from $ 179.00

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Mt Hood Day Trip from Portland to Multnomah Falls and Hood River

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Oregon Coast Day Trip: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

Oregon Coast Day Trip: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

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Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings

Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Morning Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland

(673 reviews)

Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included)

Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included)

(16 reviews)

from $ 135.00

2-Hour Scenic River Boat Tour on the Willamette River

2-Hour Scenic River Boat Tour on the Willamette River

(12 reviews)

from $ 385.00

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The Perfect 3 Days in Portland Itinerary (2024 Update)

Picture of Lindsay Harvey

  • Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

Well you’ve come to the right place!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ready to get started? 

3 Days In Portland Itinerary

Table of Contents

Portland Saturday Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 – Wander Historic Old Town and Downtown Portland

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

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

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

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

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

Portland Saturday Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chinatown Portland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Portland Mini-Excursion 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upon her death water began flowing down the falls. 

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

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

Multnomah Falls Outside Of Portland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Downtown Portland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portland Sign

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Address : 4000 SW Fairview Blvd

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Japanese Garden Portland

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

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

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

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

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

Portland Oregon Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Portland

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

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

Here are our suggestions on where to stay in Portland. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Restaurants in Portland Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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14 Reasons Why You Should Visit Portland, Oregon

Portland is a city of hidden gems

Since well before the media caught on, Portland has been staking its claim as America’s destination for weirdness. A visit to this city in Oregon both fulfills expectations and reveals hidden gems, all worthy of a return trip. If you’re in need of excuses to visit, here are some of the best.

Hiking and nature are everywhere.

View of Mount Hood from Mount Tabor in Portland

Whether you’re the outdoorsy type or not, a visit to Portland is best accompanied by a sample of the Pacific Northwest ’s natural beauty. From the southeast’s scenic Mount Tabor to the down-and-dirty rigor of the northwest’s Forest Park, there are countless ways to hit the trails and experience urban nature unlike anywhere else.

The restaurants are among the West Coast’s best

Despite the smaller population, the eyes of the foodie world rarely overlook Portland as one of the West Coast’s most popular restaurant hubs. Portland’s specialty isn’t exclusively fine dining, classic joints or total dives, but a comfortable mixture of the three, giving visitors a range of beloved establishments to choose from. Prime yourself with this list of Portland’s best restaurants .

Experience the rain (and its payoff)

Not many places will claim inclement weather enhances a city, but Portland isn’t like many other places. Portlanders pride themselves on thriving in the rain, and visitors should expect to pack a raincoat if they want to get a sense of the city at its most honest. If a daytime drizzle interrupts plans, let restaurants, cozy cafés and other indoor delights act as a backup. For visitors who can’t bear the rain as much as locals, the summer months have significantly fewer rainy days, and the city blooms from the season-long watering of winter and spring.

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It reigns as the most bike-friendly city in the US

Proving you don’t have to be an older city like Amsterdam to make cycling accessible, Portland punches above its weight to support a devoted bike culture. Don’t stress about bringing your bike; Oregon-based athletic brand Nike sponsors the inexpensive bike-share program Biketown, available on bike racks across the city.

You’re never far from an outdoor adventure

Few outdoors towns in the US have the small-town spirit and big-city attractions that Portland does, making this an ideal visit for those seeking outdoor thrills. Hitting the coast (don’t call it the ‘beach’ around locals) for surfing just over an hour away is a common day trip in the warmer months; if you’re more of a winter person, head to one of Mount Hood’s three ski resorts for another great day trip .

Enjoy coffee like nowhere else

Stumptown coffee is synonymous with Portland

Head in any direction in Portland, and you’re sure to pass a number of cozy coffee shops that invite visitors in for anything from a quick stop to hours spent in coffee paradise. Some of the city’s best include the now-famous Stumptown Coffee Roasters, boutique newcomers Push x Pull, and the aesthetically quirky Rimsky-Korsakoffee House.

Doughnuts are an elevated art form

Portland’s unquestioned love for the doughnut influences any visitor no matter how long they stay, and with good reason. Whether you go to the popular Voodoo Doughnuts downtown or scale it up at Blue Star Doughnuts, your first bite is sure to be a memorable experience. Essential reading to get to the heart (or should we say, hole) of Portland’s doughnut craze is this list of Portland’s best doughnut shops .

It’s home to the world’s largest indie bookstore

While it’s certainly a bookworm’s dream, Powell’s is much more than a simple bookstore; the shop occupies an entire city block and 1.6 acres of retail space in downtown Portland, ruling as one of the top reasons to visit the city. Browsing the shelves can be an all-day activity, so don’t be surprised when your suitcase is suddenly too small for your new souvenirs.

Witness the ‘Rose City’ live up to its nickname

Portland was set on its course to become the ‘ City of Roses ‘ more than 100 years ago, as beautification efforts led to an all-out infatuation with the bloom. Today, more than 10,000 individual roses rest in the International Rose Test Garden, the city’s top spot for a flowery walk near the top of Portland’s Northwest Hills. Visitors should plan to see the multitude of bushes and garden varietals scattered about the city as most hit their peak in June, aligning nicely with the annual Portland Rose Festival.

The airport (yes, really)

Once you’ve been through it for yourself, it’s not hard to see why it’s so beloved (and possibly even worth a layover). It has received domestic acclaim for its comfort, design, environmental efforts and food – and the carpet has a cult of personality . It also features a rotating crew of musicians stationed at concourses throughout the complex, playing day and night to greet and bid farewell with a tune.

There’s never a bad time to catch a sports game

The energy of the Timbers Army is infectious

Portland’s history with organized sports is an interesting one. While some teams fell to the wayside (and others just can’t seem to get going ), the local passion around the current lineup is worth seeing for yourself. The energy of the Timbers Army, the excitement around the dominant gold-medalists of the Thorns, and the Trail Blazers’ NBA star power each draw fans across the city and state, and are some of the best ways to spend a weekend in Portland.

Shopping locally is more than just a trend

Farmers, jewelry makers, knitters and artisans of all sorts are never far out of reach in Portland. The well-established Portland Saturday Market, held on the waterfront just steps away from downtown, is a must-see hub for the kinds of quirky gifts visitors dream of finding. Beyond that, farmers’ markets are spread out in neighborhoods across town, bringing locals and tourists alike together.

You won’t break the bank

What’s one of Portland ‘s most remarkable features? It manages to expand and add on new amazing reasons to visit without losing its affordable charm. Some of that is owed to Oregon’s lack of sales tax on most goods, but the city’s love of dive bars and cheap eats from food carts is as strong as ever.

Portland’s general weirdness

Above all else, the city’s emphasis on the eccentric is what keeps residents and newcomers interested in every new day. Helping to keep Portland weird is as much a reason to visit as any restaurant, bar or festival. Next time you’re there, look for the ‘only in Portland’ moments that are treasured by so many.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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Oregon’s Weirdest Tourist Attractions, According to Reddit

By Zoe Sayler May 10, 2024

portland travel reddit

Jurassic Park 's got nothing (well, maybe something) on Southern Oregon's Prehistoric Gardens.

Image: Jim Corwin / Alamy Stock Photo

“Keep Portland Weird” bumper stickers announce the metro area’s quirks with pride—but an Oregon road trip reveals a tendency toward the bizarre that permeates the state. So when a tourist came to Reddit recently in search of some strange stops for their travels, locals happily delivered . 

From a roadside attraction that defies the laws of physics to a literal hole in the ground, here are some of their top recommendations.

Prehistoric Gardens

Pacific Coast Highway travelers hit Oregon’s version of Jurassic Park —which predates the movie by decades— about an hour from the California border . A short trail through the verdant rainforest makes it a great place for a quick stretch, while 23 uncanny-valley dinosaurs sculpted in the 1950s lend it that classic roadside kitsch. $10–14 per person

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In Bend, sweet nostalgia awaits.

Image: devin powers/shutterstock.com

The Last Blockbuster

Speaking of prehistoric: leave the iPads in the backseat and show the kids how people watched videos back in your day. Bend’s famous holdout looks just how you remember it and makes for a not-too-touristy souvenir stop.

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It's a hole! In the ground! Which is cooler than you might think.

Image: Ken Barber / Alamy Stock Photo

Hole-in-the-Ground

The understated name of this maar near Crater Lake makes it ideal for tormenting fellow travelers—then surprises them with a few walking trails and a pretty impressive mile-wide crater. Visit Crack-in-the-Ground for another unique hiking option about an hour away.

Oregon Vortex

This Jackson County I-5 pit stop offers “a glimpse of a strange world where the improbable is the commonplace and everyday physical facts are reversed”—or, at least, a fun photo op with some unexplained phenomena. $16–22 per person

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Sometimes called a cobra lily (look at that shape!), the carnivorous Darlingtonia californica has multiple translucent false exits to help it trap insects, which get confused and eventually drop to the bottom of the stalk.

Image: Danita Delimont/shutterstock.com

Darlingtonia State Natural Site

More interested in trapping flies than tourists, Oregon’s only state park location focused on a single plant species features a simple wooden boardwalk leading through a bog of the rare carnivorous pitcher plant Darlingtonia californica. Visit in spring to see it flowering.

The Original Pronto Pup

Of all the famous birthplaces that could make your road trip lineup, few compete with the humble corn dog, supposedly created in Rockaway with the goal of making an on-demand hot dog bun unaffected by Oregon rain. The original beachside location features an enormous rooftop Pronto Pup and a few vegetarian picks.

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Opened in 1971, Enchanted Forest is a fortress of yesteryear fun.

Image: Victoria Ditkovsky/shutterstock.com

Enchanted Forest

Like Disneyland if it rained more and never went corporate. Newsweek readers just voted this storybook-inspired park near Salem the best family-owned amusement park in the United States . Buy tickets ahead of time for a discount. $24–27 per person

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Home » North America » Portland

PORTLAND Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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Best Time To Visit Portland

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

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

Where to Stay in Portland

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

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

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

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

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

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

where to stay in Portland

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

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

Best Hostel in Portland – HI Portland

 Portland itinerary

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

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

Best Airbnb in Portland – Downtown Home on the River!

Downtown Home on the River

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

Best Budget Hotel in Portland – Ramada by Wyndham

Portland itinerary

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

Best Luxury Hotel in Portland – Hotel Rose

Portland itinerary

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

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

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

Portland Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Stroll Through Washington Park

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Visit the Japanese Garden

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

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

flickr-portland-garden

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

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

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

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

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

Oregon Zoo

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Explore Pittock Mansion

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

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

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

Pittock Mansion

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Investigate Pioneer Courthouse Square

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

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

Pioneer Square at Christmas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Walk Through Forest Park

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

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

Forest Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Visit Grixsen Brewing Company

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

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

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

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

HI Portland

HI Portland

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

  • 24 Hour Reception

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

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

Grab a Sweet Treat at Portland’s Favorite Doughnut Store

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

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

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

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

Visit the International Rose Test Garden

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

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

International Rose Test Garden

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

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

Watch a Movie at McMenamins Bagdad Theater and Pub

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

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

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

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

Play Glow in the Dark Mini-Golf

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

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

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

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

Explore Downtown Portland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Portland

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

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

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

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

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

Wine and Waterfalls Portland Day Trip

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

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

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

Mount Hood: Full Day Loop Tour From Portland

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

Mount Hood Full Day Loop Tour From Portland

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

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

Oregon Coast Day Tour: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

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

Oregon Coast Day Tour Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

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

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

Eugene Highlights and Wine Tasting Combo

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

Eugene Highlights and Wine Tasting Combo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Portland worth visiting?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Aiden Freeborn

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Portland vs Seattle: which is the best northwestern city for you?

Jan 18, 2022 • 9 min read

Group of laughing male and female skateboarders hanging out in neighborhood skate park in Seattle

These two cities share some key similarities on the surface - but which one is better for you? © Thomas Barwick/Getty

Portland and Seattle, the stars of the US Northwest. These two beguiling cities couldn't be more different, even as they share a devotion to great coffee, cycling and living life outdoors – despite prodigious amounts of rain year-round.

Portland  is loud and proud about the unique indie charms that set it apart from other faceless sleek urban environments – the focus on high-quality local cuisine that doesn't cost the earth, craft breweries whose renown spreads far beyond the city limits and an independent spirit that attracts like-minded people from all over the US.

On the other hand, it's hard to believe  Seattle , the Pacific Northwest’s largest metropolis, was considered a ‘secondary’ US city until the 1980s, when a combination of bold innovation and unabashed individualism turned it into one of the tech era’s biggest success stories, thanks to homegrown icons like Microsoft and Amazon. It's renowned for celebrating over-caffeinated tech bros and serious musicians.

Buried in Portland’s DNA is a deep resentment that Seattle eclipsed it way back during the 1897 Klondike gold rush and only widened the gap since, especially with the tech boom. Meanwhile, Seattle casts a squinty eye on its precocious neighbor to the south – one that always seems to generate a buzz. Which is the better bet for travelers? 

Customers and a corgi outside Barista coffee shop in Portland's Pearl District on a clear day

Seattle's sights versus Portland's nightlife

Portland has the pluck, Seattle has the size. Both prize their outdoors and passion for food and drink, all accented by offbeat individualism.

Portland prizes everything artisan

Downtown features parks lining the Willamette River. Summertime festivals are always a treat, especially the microbrew festival, which celebrated beers with flavor when the rest of the country was still drinking bland lager.

Neighborhoods are the soul of Portland , and visitors should prowl the commercial strips that give the city multiple beating hearts. The world-famous Powell's City of Books is not to be missed. N Mississippi Ave is a hot spot of trendy shops and eateries. Northeast is artsy NE Alberta St, a long ribbon of art galleries, boutiques and cafes. SE Hawthorne Blvd (near SE 39th Ave) is affluent-hippie territory, with gift stores, cafes, coffee shops and great bookstores. One leafy mile to the south, SE Division St has become a top dining destination, with plenty of excellent restaurants, bars and pubs.

Portland is nationally recognized for its food scene, with dozens of young top-notch chefs pushing the boundaries of global and regional cuisines and making the most of locally sourced, sustainably raised ingredients. On the other side of the spectrum, it is indisputably the country's strip club capital, with more clubs per capita than any other US city. 

Drinking, whether it’s coffee or a craft brew, cider or kombucha, is practically a sport in Portland. In winter it’s a reason to hunker down and escape the rain; in summer, an excuse to sit outside and soak up the long-awaited sunshine. Whatever your poison, there’s bound to be an artisan handcrafted version of it here. And don’t miss the superb pinot noirs from the nearby Willamette Valley vineyards. Music, particularly indie rock, is one of Portland’s primary exports.

People outside of Neumos nightclub in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood at night.

Seattle is home to lots of world-class sights

Surprisingly elegant in places and coolly edgy in others, Seattle is notable for its strong neighborhoods, top-rated university and monstrous traffic jams. Although it has cultivated its own pop culture in recent times , it has yet to create an urban mythology befitting Paris or New York (...or even Portland), but it does have ‘the Mountain.’

Officially known as Rainier (efforts are currently being made to restore its original name of Tahoma),  Seattle’s symbol is a 14,411ft mass of rock and ice, which acts as a perennial reminder that raw wilderness – and potential volcanic catastrophe – are never far away. It’s a heady sight for visitors, its look changing with every shift in the weather.

The historic waterfront and downtown are worth your time. You can’t help but feel the pull of the north as you gaze out over the chilly ferry-churned waters. Dip your finger into the culinary extravaganza of downtown’s Pike Place Market , a confederation of small-scale growers, hole-in-the-wall bakers, halibut-tossing fishermen, artisan cheesemakers and family-run fruit stalls. Look for fine bottles of wine from eastern Washington and across the border in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley .

Start your neighborhood explorations in Ballard , an enclave of bars, breweries and pubs, if you want local gossip and unique libations of every stripe. Look out for historic century-old bars, modern cocktail lounges, inventive brewpubs and gastropubs with seasonal menus. Across the city, gritty clubs feature bands hoping to recapture the magic of nineties grunge. The only downside? Seattle's bars close notoriously early. 

The winner:  Seattle is the pick, simply because it has everything Portland has, only more so. The cities share many attributes, but your choices in Seattle are always greater and more diverse. One caveat: if you want to party all night long, Portland is your best bet.

Will I feel more welcome in Portland or Seattle?

If you’re comfortable in Portland, you’ll be comfortable in Seattle and vice versa. Both cities are welcoming to LGBTIQ+ travelers, and whether you’re flying solo or as part of a couple or family, you should feel at home in both. Still, the experiences aren't identical. 

A cyclist in front of a stately turn-of-the-century home in the Alphabet District of Portland, Oregon

Find friends in Portland's local drinking spots

Portland’s neighborhood bars proudly wear the cliche ‘friendly.’ If you’re traveling solo, you can wander into an idiosyncratic neighborhood tavern and emerge hours later with a passel of friends for life. Couples can enjoy intimate date nights, but this is a place where you’re less likely to splash out on a big-ticket evening out.

Families who enjoy the outdoors will love the local culture, which celebrates hiking and cycling through the parks and natural places in and around the city .

Silhouette of a runner with a dog on the waterfront, with the Seattle skyline in the background

Seattle is a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor activities

Neighborhood cafes, bistros and bars welcome solo travelers – on one of many wet days, you can hole up with new friends while sipping some very fine beers and cocktails. Seattle’s wealth of tech money also means that a couple looking for a memorable night out will be well catered for.

Outdoor adventure awaits everyone , including families. A web of long-distance hiking and cycling trails fan out around the extensive waterfront and nearby wilderness areas. When it’s time to duck out of the overcast sky, there are great museums for all ages and interests.

The winner:  Seattle again gets the nod, for having most of Portland’s attributes and many more of its own. It also offers more options to live large.

Are Portland and Seattle still budget-friendly?

Prosperity has threatened the once budget-friendly reputations of Portland and Seattle, but important differences remain.

Portland is the home of thrift shopping

The Rose City has been able to hold onto its celebration of the masses because it isn’t home to an Amazon, Microsoft or Starbucks. (Nike is off in the western suburbs and is noticeably absent from the city’s vibe.) Although restaurants can be expensive, overall prices are cheap by West Coast standards. There's also a thriving thrift shop community to keep shopping costs down.

Seattle isn't as cheap as it used to be

As home to some of the world’s richest corporations, there’s a lot of money floating around. Any resident whose age is in the double digits can tell a story about how cheap something used to be. Still, those beguiling neighborhoods can be sanctuaries of the budget-minded . Look to Capitol Hill and Fremont as well as Ballard.

The winner:  Portland wins this one. Many are the travelers who landed here for a day or two and found themselves still planning to leave two years later. Ask anyone you meet where to find budget-this or budget-that, and you’ll get an earful of money-saving advice .

What city is easier to get around?

Both Pacific Northwest cities cater to cyclists, have good public transit and are well-positioned for day trips into the magnificent beauty of the surrounding wilderness.

Visitors on a bridge at Multnomah Falls, surrounded by lush greenery

Portland has premium public transport

Portland has an excellent public transportation system, including the best streetcar and light-rail network in the country, and its love of all things cycling justifies its renown. But while you can easily get around town by foot, bike, bus and tram, when you venture further out, you’ll need your own wheels – and there’s a lot that’s worth the journey .

The fourth-largest river in the US by volume, the mighty Columbia runs 1243 miles from Alberta, Canada, to the Pacific Ocean. It cuts through the Cascade Mountains via the spectacular Columbia River Gorge east of Portland. Sheltering numerous ecosystems, waterfalls and magnificent vistas, the land bordering the river is protected as a National Scenic Area and is popular with windsurfers, cyclists and hikers. A highlight and huge tourist draw is Multnomah Falls.

Oregon’s highest peak, 11,240ft Mount Hood pops into view in Portland when you least expect it. Whenever there’s a sunny day, it exerts a magnetic tug on skiers, hikers and sightseers. In summer wildflowers bloom on the mountainsides, and hidden ponds shimmer in blue, making for some unforgettable hikes.

West of the city, Astoria watches over the turbulent waters where the Columbia meets the Pacific. Heading south is one alluring beach after another.

A female hiker walking across a log bridge in the forest

Plan to bring your car to Seattle

Despite the frequent rain and hilly terrain, cycling is a major form of both transportation and recreation in the Seattle area . Public transit is serviceable but suffers from a few missed opportunities at expansion decades ago.

Like much of the rest of the US, away from the metro region, you’ll need a car. A prime destination is the remote Olympic Peninsula , with its rare and endangered wildlife and dense primeval forest. The peninsula’s roadless interior is largely given over to the notoriously wet Olympic National Park , which attracts hardy hikers to its spectacular trails year-round.

The San Juan Islands comprise 172 landfalls, but unless you’re rich enough to charter your own yacht or seaplane, you’ll be restricted to seeing the big four – San Juan, Orcas, Shaw and Lopez Islands – all served daily by public ferries (which you still need a car to reach). The islands are famous for their tranquility, whale-watching opportunities, sea kayaking and general non-conformity. 

The winner:  Portland edges Seattle on this one. The Rose City has better public transit, and it's more bike-friendly; plus, the sights up the Columbia Gorge are compelling.

You might also like:  How to road trip the Pacific Northwest on a budget Best time to visit Portland, Oregon Best time to visit Seattle

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I'll be visiting from July 1st to July 4th. Thank you!!

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The drive down I-5 is nothing special (unless you decide to make a side trip to Mt. Rainier or Mt. St. Helens. But it's easy, cheap (a few gallons of gas), allows you to stop here and there (including rest stops) and not have someone shove a table tray into your gut or park a cranky baby next to you.

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another option is to take Amtrak Cascades- otherwise driving is likely the best approach

portland travel reddit

also since you want to travel during a holiday and a busy one at that, it will affect your travel times, depending on where you are on the July 2.

do you have access to google maps? If so, look up SEATAC/PDX and I-5. Then do a "street view" or in your case "highway view" and scroll down i-5 and see if its "scenic" to you.

Ive driven it several times years ago and to me it becomes old hat probably like your commute. but maybe from fresh eyes, i will be "scenic"

to me, you need to figure out what is "cost affective" to you. you can look at the monetary and time costs...and whatever you want.

note since i HATE driving, i will fly.... Ive flown into Pendleton, just to avoid that short drive. Same with SEATAC. but again, i HATE driving.

as mentioned you may want to reserach AMTRAC. I took it a few months before COVID and i loved it. But its not fast and you have to fit the schedule.

There are buses too.

Neither I nor my or my wife's bladders can match your times. I do better going north than south usually for some reason, but going south my nemesis is Tacoma. I even spent an hour getting past that snake pit early on a Sunday morning.

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God yes, Tacoma is a snake pit. It doesn't matter when I've done it. Even on an off season Sunday, there were accidents and slow downs.

Poppa--We usually have good luck on this drive. The worst was when Amtrak detailed and the detour went over to Shelton, but that was such an odd event. The second worst was when I was hit and run in Tacoma. Otherwise our drives have been ok. The area I hate the most is around Centralia when the speed limit goes down to 60 yet people still want to go 80. Yes, 8 years of making this drive every week round trip, I know it all too well.

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COMMENTS

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  8. Ultimate Portland Travel Guide: The Best of What to do in Portland

    Columbia River Gorge. Columbia River Gorge is a designated National Scenic Area just 40 minutes from downtown Portland. There are plenty of hikes to be enjoyed, including scenic waterfalls and mountain bike trails. One of the most popular sights is the Multnomah waterfall, which can be seen from the roadside.

  9. Things to do in Portland

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  16. Top 10 reasons to visit Portland, Oregon

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  17. Portland Events

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  18. Oregon's Weirdest Tourist Attractions, According to Reddit

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  19. Portland Visitor Center

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  20. PORTLAND Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024 Guide)

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  21. Portland or Seattle: which city should I visit?

    The islands are famous for their tranquility, whale-watching opportunities, sea kayaking and general non-conformity. The winner: Portland edges Seattle on this one. The Rose City has better public transit, and it's more bike-friendly; plus, the sights up the Columbia Gorge are compelling. You might also like:

  22. Fly or Drive from Seattle

    132 reviews. 48 helpful votes. 4. Re: Fly or Drive from Seattle. 3 years ago. The drive from Seattle to Portland on I-5 isn't particularly scenic. Mostly woods and fields broken up by a few towns. However, it can be done in two and a half hours depending on how fast you drive, traffic, and in winter, the weather.

  23. Portland Gear Online

    Cascade Backpack - Standard. $95.00. Color: Black. Add to Cart. Pay in 4 interest-free installments of $23.75 with. Learn more. Lifetime Warranty. Next-day Fulfilment.