Portland, Oregon is a city that brings together natural beauty, urban charm, and endless activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or culture enthusiast, Portland has something for everyone.
This vibrant city is filled with unique attractions that showcase its quirky character and diverse landscapes. Let’s explore 15 amazing things to do in Portland that will make your visit unforgettable.
Explore Washington Park: A Natural Retreat
Address: 4001 SW Canyon Rd.
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Recreation, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Washington Park, established in 1909, is one of Portland’s oldest and most beloved green spaces. It has played a significant role in shaping Portland’s identity as a city surrounded by nature.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens, wildlife, and hiking trails. The park offers a variety of attractions including gardens, the Oregon Zoo, and Hoyt Arboretum.
Visitor Information: The park is open year-round and free to visit, although some attractions may have entry fees. Plan for a full day to explore everything it has to offer.
If you’re in Portland, a visit to Washington Park is a must. This 400-acre park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. You can explore beautiful gardens, including the Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden, which are perfect spots for a peaceful stroll. Don’t miss the Oregon Zoo and Hoyt Arboretum if you’re looking to add some adventure to your day. Washington Park offers something for everyone, whether you’re into nature, history, or simply want to relax in a tranquil environment.
Discover the International Rose Test Garden
Address: 400 SW Kingston Ave.
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | Less than 1 hour |
History and Significance: Opened in 1917, the International Rose Test Garden was established to test and display rose varieties. It holds the honor of being one of the oldest continuously operated public rose test gardens in the United States.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore over 10,000 rose bushes, including rare and unique varieties, and enjoy seasonal blooms in a serene environment.
Visitor Information: The garden is open daily from dawn to dusk, and admission is free. Best visited in the summer when the roses are in full bloom.
Known as “The City of Roses,” Portland lives up to its nickname with the iconic International Rose Test Garden. With over 10,000 rose bushes, the garden is a colorful paradise, especially during the blooming season in mid-June. The Shakespeare Garden, featuring roses named after Shakespeare’s characters, is one of the highlights here. A visit to this stunning garden is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Immerse Yourself in Zen at the Portland Japanese Garden
Address: 611 SW Kingston Ave.
| Type | Parks and Gardens, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1963, the Portland Japanese Garden is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. It showcases traditional Japanese landscape designs and culture.
What to Expect: The garden spans 12 acres and features stone paths, water features, and beautiful seasonal changes. It’s perfect for peaceful walks and reflection.
Visitor Information: Open daily, with admission fees. It’s a good idea to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the garden’s tranquility.
For a serene retreat, head to the Portland Japanese Garden, one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. Spanning 12 acres, this garden features traditional Japanese elements like stone paths, water features, and lush greenery. The garden’s tranquil environment is perfect for reflection and relaxation. If you’re lucky enough to visit in the spring, you’ll be treated to breathtaking cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Explore Powell’s City of Books
Address: 1005 W Burnside St.
| Type | Free, Shopping, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | Less than 1 hour |
History and Significance: Founded in 1971, Powell’s City of Books is the world’s largest independent bookstore, offering a vast collection of books in all genres.
What to Expect: The bookstore features four stories packed with new and used books, along with unique rare editions and author events.
Visitor Information: Located in downtown Portland, Powell’s is open daily, with special events and book signings throughout the week. Be sure to allow enough time to explore its vast collection.
Book lovers will find their paradise in Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore. With four floors filled with new and used books, you could easily spend hours exploring the stacks. The store’s vast collection includes everything from bestsellers to rare finds. Don’t forget to check out the author events and readings held regularly at this iconic Portland spot.
Experience the Lan Su Chinese Garden
Address: 239 NW Everett St.
| Type | Parks and Gardens, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Opened in 2000, Lan Su Chinese Garden is an authentic Suzhou-style garden, built to provide visitors with a traditional Chinese garden experience in the heart of Portland.
What to Expect: Expect tranquil paths, koi ponds, traditional Chinese architecture, and lush plants. The garden offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to learn about Chinese culture.
Visitor Information: The garden is open daily with an admission fee. The teahouse within the garden offers a chance to relax and enjoy traditional Chinese tea.
Escape to the Lan Su Chinese Garden, an oasis of peace and beauty in downtown Portland. This authentic Chinese garden is designed to help you connect with nature. Stroll through its beautiful paths, surrounded by traditional architecture, koi ponds, and lush plant life. For an even more immersive experience, enjoy a cup of tea at the garden’s teahouse, where you can relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Hike Through Portland’s Forest Park
Address: NW 29th Ave. & Upshur Street to Newberry Road
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1948, Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, preserving Portland’s natural environment for hiking and wildlife viewing.
What to Expect: With over 5,000 acres and 80 miles of trails, Forest Park offers an array of hiking opportunities ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks.
Visitor Information: Forest Park is free to visit, and open year-round. Trails can be accessed from various points throughout the city, with detailed maps available on-site.
For a dose of adventure, head to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States. Spanning over 5,000 acres, it offers miles of hiking trails, perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Portland. Whether you want a short walk or a longer trek, the park’s scenic trails and diverse wildlife will leave you feeling refreshed and connected to nature.
See Multnomah Falls – A Natural Wonder
Address: Oregon 97014, United States
| Type | Natural Wonders, Free, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, stands at 620 feet and has been a significant natural landmark in the Columbia River Gorge for centuries.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the waterfall, as well as hike the nearby trails to see the falls up close.
Visitor Information: The falls are open year-round, with free parking and a visitor center nearby. The short Benson Bridge trail provides a great view of the falls, and the longer trail leads to the top for a more rewarding experience.
Just 30 miles east of Portland lies the majestic Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon. Standing at 620 feet tall, the falls are a breathtaking sight to behold. For a closer look, hike the 1/4-mile trail to Benson Bridge. If you’re up for a more challenging adventure, take the steep 1.25-mile trail to the top of the falls and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visit Portland Saturday Market for Local Crafts and Food
Address: 2 SW Naito Parkway
| Type | Free, Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Portland Saturday Market has been a community hub since 1974, showcasing local crafts, food, and live entertainment.
What to Expect: Expect a vibrant atmosphere with handmade goods, unique souvenirs, and delicious street food. The market features live music and local artists.
Visitor Information: Open every Saturday and Sunday from March to December. Located along the waterfront, admission is free, though food and crafts are available for purchase.
Portland’s Saturday Market is a bustling hub of local creativity and culture. Since 1974, this outdoor market has been the place to shop for handmade crafts, unique souvenirs, and delicious food from around the world. From locally made jewelry to street food stalls, the market offers a fun, lively experience. Don’t forget to check out the live music performances while you shop!
Discover the Hidden Gem of Hoyt Arboretum
Address: 4000 SW Fairview Blvd.
| Type | Natural Wonders, Free, Parks and Gardens, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Hoyt Arboretum, established in 1928, is home to over 6,000 trees from around the world and serves as an important educational resource for visitors.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy several trails through diverse forests, learning about the different tree species while surrounded by nature.
Visitor Information: The arboretum is open year-round with free admission. Trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both casual strollers and seasoned hikers.
Tucked away in Washington Park, Hoyt Arboretum is a peaceful spot to escape the city’s bustle. Home to over 6,000 trees, it offers a chance to explore nature while learning about different tree species from around the world. There are several trails to walk, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, making it a great spot for nature lovers and families alike.
Take a Scenic Ride on the Portland Aerial Tram
Address: Portland, OR 97239, United States
| Type | Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Portland Aerial Tram, opened in 2006, connects the South Waterfront district to Marquam Hill and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
What to Expect: Enjoy panoramic views of Portland’s skyline, the Willamette River, and Mount Hood during a short but scenic tram ride.
Visitor Information: The tram operates daily, with tickets available at the base station. It’s a quick and easy way to get a bird’s-eye view of the city.
For a unique perspective of the city, hop on the Portland Aerial Tram. This cable car ride takes you up to Marquam Hill, offering panoramic views of the city skyline, Mount Hood, and the Willamette River. It’s a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of Portland while enjoying a fun and scenic ride.
Indulge in Local Flavors at Portland’s Food Carts
Address: Portland, OR
| Type | Foodie |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Portland’s food cart scene began in the 1980s and has since become a significant part of the city’s culinary culture.
What to Expect: Portland’s food carts offer a wide variety of street food from around the world, serving everything from tacos to vegan burgers.
Visitor Information: Food carts are scattered across the city, especially in food cart pods. Many operate daily, and there are no entry fees, but food is available for purchase.
Portland is famous for its food carts, offering a wide variety of tasty dishes from all over the world. From tacos and sushi to vegan burgers and Indian curries, these food carts serve up some of the best street food in the city. Whether you’re craving something familiar or looking to try something new, Portland’s food carts are a must-try experience for every foodie.
Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
Address: 1945 SE Water Ave.
| Type | Museums, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1944, OMSI is one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier science museums, providing interactive exhibits on science and technology.
What to Expect: With hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater, OMSI is an educational destination for visitors of all ages.
Visitor Information: OMSI is open daily, with admission fees for exhibits and special events. Discounts are available for children, seniors, and groups.
If you’re traveling with kids or simply love interactive exhibits, OMSI is a great place to visit. This hands-on museum is full of fascinating exhibits on science, technology, and the natural world. You can explore everything from outer space to the human body, making it both fun and educational for visitors of all ages.
Relax at the Portland Art Museum
Address: 1219 SW Park Ave.
| Type | Museums, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1892, the Portland Art Museum is the oldest museum in Oregon and features a diverse collection of art, including Native American and contemporary works.
What to Expect: The museum offers a rich cultural experience with rotating exhibitions, art collections, and special events.
Visitor Information: Open daily, with general admission fees. Check the museum’s website for upcoming exhibits and events.
For art lovers, the Portland Art Museum is a must-see. It features a diverse collection of American, Native American, and contemporary art. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, so there’s always something new to explore. Take a few hours to wander through its galleries and immerse yourself in Portland’s vibrant art scene.
Go on a Wine Tasting Tour in the Willamette Valley
Address: 1821 NE 91st Ave, Portland, OR
| Type | Tours, Wineries/Breweries |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Willamette Valley is famous for its cool-climate wines, especially Pinot Noir, and has been a top wine-producing region since the 1960s.
What to Expect: Visitors can tour vineyards, taste world-class wines, and learn about the winemaking process while enjoying picturesque views.
Visitor Information: Many wineries offer tours and tastings by appointment. Plan your visit between spring and fall for the best experience.
Just outside Portland, the Willamette Valley is renowned for its vineyards and wineries. A wine-tasting tour is a perfect way to spend a day in the countryside. Sip on award-winning Pinot Noir while enjoying scenic views of the valley. Many wineries also offer tours of their vineyards, giving you a chance to learn about the winemaking process.
Take a Day Trip to the Oregon Coast
Address: Portland, OR
| Type | Tours |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Oregon Coast, with its rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, has been a popular destination for nature lovers for centuries, offering stunning views and natural landmarks.
What to Expect: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, visit coastal towns, and explore natural wonders like Haystack Rock.
Visitor Information: The Oregon Coast is a short drive from Portland, and there are numerous scenic viewpoints and hiking trails along the coast. Be sure to check the weather before your trip.
The Oregon Coast is just a short drive from Portland and is full of natural beauty and charming coastal towns. Whether you want to relax on sandy beaches, hike along rugged cliffs, or explore lighthouses, the coast offers plenty of outdoor activities. Don’t miss the chance to visit Cannon Beach, where you can marvel at the famous Haystack Rock.