35 Things To Do in Portland

Located in the green Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon, is a city that combines city appeal with natural beauty. It’s famous for being eco-friendly, having a lively arts scene, and its unique charm. Portland welcomes explorers, dreamers, and all visitors to discover its many attractions.

From its large, quiet parks to the lively downtown area, here are 35 reasons to make Portland your next travel spot.

International Rose Test Garden

In Portland’s core, the International Rose Test Garden offers a sensory escape with over 650 rose varieties. Amidst a canvas of colors ranging from vibrant reds to soft pinks, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the city and mountains, complemented by the garden’s fragrant air. Meandering paths guide explorers through well-tended beds of roses, inviting moments of pause and deep breaths to fully embrace the beauty around them.

Beyond its visual and olfactory delights, the garden serves as a vital center for rose preservation and research. It narrates the evolution of roses from ancient species to elaborate modern hybrids. With benches scattered across the garden, it’s an ideal spot for both romantic and reflective visits. As the oldest of its kind in the U.S., this garden embodies Portland’s commitment to floral heritage and beauty.

Forest Park

Forest Park is a natural haven in Portland, covering over 5,200 acres with dense forests, serene streams, and stunning viewpoints. It’s a perfect blend of city life and nature’s tranquility, offering trails for hikers, runners, and anyone looking to escape into the wild. The park’s diverse ecosystem includes towering firs and cedars, making it a prime spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure within the city’s limits.

One of the park’s gems, the Wildwood Trail, winds through this verdant expanse, leading visitors past enchanting waterfalls and historic structures, revealing the park’s hidden wonders. Forest Park also symbolizes Portland’s dedication to preserving its natural landscapes. It provides a unique experience where the misty mornings and sunlight through the trees remind us of the delicate balance between urban development and environmental conservation.

Multnomah Falls

No visit to Portland is complete without seeing the breathtaking Multnomah Falls. Nestled in the picturesque Columbia River Gorge, it captivates anyone who sees it. The waterfall cascades dramatically into the pool below, showcasing nature’s raw power and beauty. From the Benson Bridge, you can get an unbeatable view, making it a great spot for photos or just to pause and admire the scenery.

Multnomah Falls isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also rich in stories and history that enhance its charm. Trails from the falls allow adventurers to explore more of the gorge, uncovering new wonders at every turn. Whether it’s framed by winter’s frost or autumn’s vibrant colors, Multnomah Falls symbolizes the timeless beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Shanghai Tunnels

Underneath the bustling streets of Portland, a hidden network of passageways known as the Shanghai Tunnels stretches out. These tunnels are now accessible through guided tours. These tours reveal the secrets of old Portland, showing off ancient trapdoors, living quarters, and left-behind artifacts, allowing history enthusiasts and the curious alike to step back in time and explore a piece of the city’s past.

The dim lighting and the sound of echoing footsteps add to the aura of mystery that pervades these underground corridors. Tour guides bring the tales of the past to life, captivating visitors with stories of intrigue, endurance, and the resilience of the human spirit. This exploration into Portland’s hidden underground offers a unique glimpse into the shadows and secrets that lie beneath the city’s surface.

Portland Farmers Market

At the Portland Farmers Market, Oregon’s bountiful agriculture is on full display, offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal foods and handmade items. It’s a vibrant celebration of the journey from farm to table, where the community can connect directly with those who cultivate and craft their food. The market brims with the vibrant hues of fruits and vegetables and the enticing smell of fresh bread.

The market is a gathering spot for the community, featuring cooking shows, live music, and workshops that enrich the experience. It’s an opportunity to taste the region’s finest, like succulent berries and rich mushrooms, and to find new culinary delights among the rows of stalls. For anyone looking to dive into the local food scene or enjoy a lively day out, the Portland Farmers Market is the place to go.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Tucked away in Portland’s bustling cityscape, the Lan Su Chinese Garden offers a serene retreat inspired by ancient Chinese gardening art. Meandering paths lead you through a landscape of tranquility, featuring peaceful ponds, elegant pavilions, and harmonious arrangements that invite quiet reflection. It’s a place where the beauty of nature and meticulous design provide a calming respite for both eyes and spirit.

Beyond its botanical allure, the Lan Su Chinese Garden serves as a vibrant bridge to Chinese culture, offering immersive experiences that delve into centuries-old traditions. Guests can enjoy tea ceremonies, engage in calligraphy workshops, and explore other cultural activities, making every visit a rich exploration of Chinese heritage. This garden is a living celebration of art, history, and storytelling, woven into the fabric of Portland.

Washington Park

Washington Park serves as the green heart of Portland, offering a lush retreat from the city’s hustle with its towering trees, colorful flowers, and expansive meadows. It’s a sanctuary for those who love nature, families seeking a peaceful outing, or anyone wishing for a moment of serenity. The network of trails beckons visitors to explore, revealing secret spots, breathtaking views, and tranquil areas scattered throughout the park.

More than a mere expanse of greenery, Washington Park encompasses vital cultural landmarks that make it a cornerstone of Portland’s heritage. With attractions like the captivating International Rose Test Garden and the solemn Oregon Holocaust Memorial, the park marries natural beauty with historical and artistic richness. It’s a place where the realms of art, history, and the natural world converge.

Portland Art Museum

The Portland Art Museum is a treasure trove of cultural exploration, showcasing a rich tapestry of artwork that spans from ancient Native American pieces to modern art. Its varied collections offer a glimpse into the diverse narratives of different cultures, sparking both curiosity and admiration among its visitors. Each exhibit is a doorway to understanding the vibrant histories and creative spirit of communities from around the globe.

More than just housing art, the museum serves as a vibrant hub for the community, engaging people with a variety of programs, talks, and events that celebrate artistic expression. The Portland Art Museum plays a crucial role in enriching visitors’ perspectives on art and culture, inviting them to view the world through a more enriched and diverse lens.

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Enter the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden and find yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors and life, right beside the peaceful Crystal Springs Lake. With its collection of over 2,500 rhododendrons and azaleas, the garden weaves a vivid landscape that captivates visitors. Winding paths invite you on an explorative walk through thriving plant life, unveiling breathtaking views and secret nooks at every corner.

This garden is more than just a feast for the eyes; it’s a sanctuary for wildlife, including ducks, geese, and herons, emphasizing the harmony of nature within the city’s buzz. The tranquil sounds of nature replace urban noise, offering a tranquil haven for contemplation and connection amidst the beauty of the natural world.

Springwater Corridor

The Springwater Corridor offers a unique way to see Portland, stretching across the city and showcasing everything from beautiful riverside views to local art. As you ride along this scenic trail, surrounded by nature and art, you’re free to go at your speed, enjoying a calm journey or a fast-paced excursion through lush landscapes.

This trail isn’t just a path for cycling; it’s a bridge connecting different parts of the city, from neighborhoods to parks, emphasizing Portland’s dedication to green transport. Cyclists have the chance to stop and check out various attractions, taste some local street food, or simply take in the changing views around them. The Springwater Corridor is all about exploring and experiencing new things.

Pittock Mansion

Pittock Mansion sits high above Portland, offering more than just historical insight; it provides a panoramic glimpse into the heart of the city. From its terraces, you can see everything from the bustling city center to the tranquil Mount Hood. Built in 1914, this elegant mansion shares the story of a prominent Portland family, blending the whispers of the past with the present.

The path to Pittock Mansion is as magical as the destination itself, with lush landscapes unfolding as you approach its grandeur. Inside, the mansion comes alive with stories from yesteryears, showcased through authentic furnishings and artifacts. More than its architectural splendor, the mansion serves as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting various events and exhibitions. A visit to Pittock Mansion is an immersive journey through Portland’s rich heritage.

Oregon Historical Society

Discover Oregon’s rich past at the Oregon Historical Society, where a captivating array of exhibits takes you through the state’s history. From Native American cultures to pioneer tales and the development of Oregon’s cities and natural landscapes, the museum offers a deep dive into the stories that have shaped the state. It’s a must-visit to understand Oregon’s diverse heritage and the significant moments and figures that contributed to its identity.

The museum not only recounts historical events but also connects visitors with Oregon’s evolutionary narrative through special exhibitions and interactive displays. These features focus on various aspects of the state’s history, showcasing its resilience and cultural richness. Whether it’s following the expedition of Lewis and Clark or learning about Oregon’s environmental efforts, the Oregon Historical Society provides a comprehensive and enlightening experience.

Portland’s Food Scene

Portland’s culinary scene is a vibrant mosaic of flavors, inviting food enthusiasts to explore its diverse gastronomy. From cozy coffee shops and bustling food carts to farm-to-table restaurants, the city is a playground for those who relish good food and innovation. Each dish reflects Portland’s commitment to sustainability and creativity, making dining here a celebration of culinary excellence.

The city’s chefs and food artisans are masters of culinary innovation, blending local ingredients into dishes that delight both the palate and the eyes. With seasonal menus highlighting Oregon’s bounty and numerous food festivals showcasing the city’s gastronomic flair, Portland offers a rich dining experience. Here, eating is not just about nourishment but about savoring the rich tapestry of flavors that define Portland’s unique food culture.

Portland Saturday Market

The Portland Saturday Market brims with the city’s vibrant creativity, offering a treasure trove of handmade jewelry, crafts, and art amidst the melodies of local musicians. This bustling hub draws the community together, celebrating the artistic spirit that defines Portland. As visitors navigate through the lively lanes, they’re enveloped in an atmosphere of collective creativity and joy, making the market a vivid representation of the city’s soul.

Every Saturday, this open-air market transforms into a cultural fest, blending shopping with an immersive sensory experience. The array of global cuisines tantalizes taste buds, turning a simple market visit into an adventure of flavors. But the essence of the Portland Saturday Market lies in the personal connections forged with local artisans, offering a deeper engagement with Portland’s dynamic and diverse culture.

Pearl District

The Pearl District, once a sprawl of warehouses and rail yards, has brilliantly transformed into a vibrant beacon of Portland’s urban renewal. Here, historic charm intertwines with modern flair, creating a neighborhood that reflects Portland’s ability to merge the past with the present. Its streets, a testament to architectural evolution, invite visitors to explore a unique urban tapestry woven from old-world charm and contemporary elegance.

This district has emerged as a cultural epicenter, bustling with galleries, theaters, and artisan studios that spotlight the creative pulse of the city. Cafes, eateries, and boutiques pulsate with life, offering a glimpse into the trendy lifestyle that defines the area. The Pearl District embodies Portland’s diverse and welcoming spirit, making it an essential exploration for anyone seeking to dive into the city’s vibrant heart and urban renaissance.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

At the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, visitors are plunged into an interactive realm where science comes vividly to life. From strolling through a colossal heart to uncovering the universe’s secrets in the planetarium, and engaging directly with experiments, the museum turns every visit into an electrifying journey. It seamlessly melds enjoyment with learning, igniting a spark of curiosity in guests of every age.

The museum also offers a unique submarine tour that provides insight into naval life and history, putting you in the shoes of those who’ve navigated the depths. With constantly changing exhibitions, the museum ensures that every visit offers something new. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry stands as a gateway to endless exploration and discovery.

Hollywood Theatre

The Hollywood Theatre stands as a beacon of cinematic nostalgia. Its stunning architecture and vintage atmosphere enhance the movie-watching experience, offering a backdrop that marries the allure of old-world cinema with the vibrancy of modern storytelling. This venue curates a diverse selection that spans independent gems, foreign masterpieces, and beloved classics, ensuring every visit is a unique escape into the world of film.

The Hollywood Theatre serves as a cultural gathering place, hosting film festivals, special events, and talks that foster community and celebrate cinematic art. It’s a place where laughter, drama, and emotion fill the air, reflecting Portland’s dynamic cultural landscape and its deep-seated affection for the art of filmmaking. A night at the Hollywood Theatre is an immersive experience that honors the timeless tradition of storytelling.

Portland Aerial Tram

Embark on a thrilling ride with the Portland Aerial Tram and witness the transformation of Portland’s landscape through its floor-to-ceiling windows. As you ascend, the city streets give way to the serene beauty of the Oregon wilderness, offering a unique aerial perspective of the city’s architectural and natural splendors. This journey is an opportunity to see Portland from a different angle, blending urban views with the wilderness that surrounds it.

Upon reaching the top of Marquam Hill, you’re met with stunning vistas that extend in every direction, providing a moment of tranquil reflection. The panoramic views showcase the remarkable diversity of Portland’s geography, from the winding Willamette River to the majestic Mount Hood in the distance. The Portland Aerial Tram experience is an invitation to discover the heart of Portland’s scenic beauty.

Portland Zine Symposium

The Portland Zine Symposium is a vibrant celebration of the city’s independent spirit, bringing together a community of zine enthusiasts to share their unique creations and ideas. This annual event buzzes with the energy of artists, writers, and activists, all gathered to showcase the diverse and innovative world of DIY publishing. It’s a place where creativity flourishes, offering stories, art, and expressions that captivate and challenge audiences.

Beyond its role as a hub for discovering an eclectic mix of zines, the symposium enriches attendees with workshops, panel discussions, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. It’s an event that truly embodies Portland’s ethos of creativity and collaboration, inviting everyone to dive into the art of zine-making or simply revel in the wealth of inspiration the community has to offer.

The Grotto

The Grotto is a serene retreat nestled away from the city’s chaos, offering visitors a peaceful place to slow down and reflect amidst its beautiful gardens and captivating statues. The ambient sounds of water and rustling leaves add to its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for those in search of solace and a closer connection to nature and their spirituality.

This heavenly oasis wraps you in awe and respect as you explore its grounds. The Grotto is a place rich in spiritual importance, welcoming people from various backgrounds to seek inspiration and peace. Whether it’s participating in an outdoor chapel service or savoring a serene pause by the reflection pond, your experience at The Grotto is memorable and impactful, lingering with you well beyond your visit.

Portland Rose Festival

The Portland Rose Festival is an explosion of color and joy, uniting the community with a celebration deeply rooted in the city’s culture and its affection for roses. The festival’s parades, with their beautifully adorned floats and sparkling costumes, delight attendees of all ages, turning the city streets into a vibrant display of creativity and spirit.

But the excitement doesn’t stop at the parades. The festival offers a wide array of activities, including exhilarating carnival rides, competitive boat races, and diverse music performances. It’s a period when Portland’s vibrant spirit shines brightest, highlighting the city’s artistic flair, delicious food, and strong sense of community. The festival isn’t just an event; it’s a vibrant celebration of life and the collective joy of Portland’s residents.

Portland’s Craft Beer Scene

Portland’s craft beer landscape is a vibrant blend of tastes and innovations, showcasing the respected and ever-evolving art of beer-making. The city’s brewers are true artisans, blending local flavors, age-old techniques, and new ideas to brew distinctive beers that captivate and surprise drinkers. Each beer is a reflection of the brewer’s dedication, skill, and quest for the ultimate brew.

Exploring Portland’s breweries and beer bars invites both seasoned beer lovers and newcomers to dive into the city’s rich beer tradition. It’s a place where you can chat with the creators, learn how your favorite drink is made, and taste a wide variety of outstanding beers. With everything from hoppy IPAs and smooth stouts to tangy sours and aromatic ales, Portland’s craft beer scene offers a world of taste experiences.

Witch’s Castle

Hidden within Forest Park, the Witch’s Castle is a mysterious remnant of Portland’s rich history, shrouded in legends and folklore. Its mossy stones and dilapidated walls beckon the adventurous to explore its secrets and stories. This enchanting site blurs the line between the past and myth, offering visitors a captivating look into the city’s enigmatic past.

Venturing to the Witch’s Castle is like stepping into another world. The journey itself is a vivid encounter with Portland’s untamed wilderness, culminating in a destination that feels suspended in time. The Witch’s Castle serves not just as a historical marker, but as a gateway to imagination, inviting all who visit to immerse themselves in its tales of mystery and embark on an adventure that feeds the soul.

Street art

Portland’s streets are alive with art, turning the city into an open-air gallery where murals and graffiti shine. This blend of creativity showcases the spirit of the city, with local and visiting artists painting walls into vibrant expressions of culture and identity. This commitment to art makes it accessible and reflects Portland’s values of inclusivity and freedom, inviting everyone to explore and appreciate its visual stories.

As you explore the city, each piece of street art offers a moment to reflect on the diverse narratives embedded in the cityscape. Political, social, and purely imaginative artworks paint a picture of Portland’s dynamic and original soul. This celebration of creativity not only beautifies the city but also inspires and challenges viewers, making a lasting impact on all who engage with it.

Mount Tabor Park 

Mount Tabor Park, nestled atop an extinct volcano in Portland, offers a peaceful retreat amidst the city. Its trails lead through lush scenery and past glistening reservoirs, creating a perfect backdrop for jogging, picnicking, and daydreaming. The park feels like a distant haven where nature’s beauty is on full display and the community comes together to enjoy the outdoors and spectacular views, including Mount Hood on the horizon.

This park is a vital part of the community. Here, people can immerse themselves in nature, find tranquility under the shade of tall trees, and enjoy panoramic vistas. Mount Tabor Park caters to all, whether you’re after a challenging hike, seeking a quiet spot to reflect, or just wanting to spend an afternoon in nature. Its serene environment and stunning outlooks make it a cherished escape in Portland.

Portland Jazz Festival 

In February, Portland becomes a vibrant hub for jazz enthusiasts, courtesy of the Portland Jazz Festival. This much-anticipated event turns the city into a stage, echoing with the sounds of saxophones and drums across various venues. It’s an all-encompassing celebration that unites both international icons and local talents. This festival marks a significant highlight, drawing crowds eager to be part of the city’s lively cultural scene.

The festival transcends being merely a collection of musical acts; it’s a cultural gathering that celebrates jazz in its many facets. It offers an opportunity for emotional connection, storytelling through music, and serendipitous musical discoveries. As you meander through performances, Portland transforms into a musical maze filled with captivating rhythms. The city pulses with the essence of jazz, creating an unforgettable experience for all who join in the festivities.

Portland Pride Parade 

Every June, Portland transforms into a vibrant celebration of love and diversity during the Portland Pride Parade. The city buzzes with the excitement of unity as colorful floats, dancers, musicians, and marchers fill the streets, creating a lively atmosphere that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a time when Portland truly comes alive, inviting everyone to partake in the joy and support inclusivity.

The parade is a powerful statement of acceptance and inclusivity, showcasing that love transcends all barriers. The streets become alive with enthusiastic spectators, creating an environment of joy and solidarity. It’s a chance for people from all walks of life to come together. At its core, the Portland Pride Parade stands as a symbol of hope and a clear reflection of the city’s dedication to ensuring equality for everyone.

Hoyt Arboretum 

Hoyt Arboretum, nestled in Portland’s Washington Park, is a serene haven spread over 190 acres, featuring 6,000 plants from across the globe. Its 12 miles of trails invite you into a world where every step uncovers diverse landscapes, rare plants, and breathtaking views. It’s an escape that slows you down, letting you appreciate the vast array of the plant kingdom and offering moments of reflection amid nature’s quiet beauty.

As you explore Hoyt Arboretum, you’re taken on a worldwide trek from the towering Douglas firs of the Pacific Northwest to Japan’s delicate cherry blossoms. This arboretum is not just a sanctuary for endangered plants but also a hub for learning and research, connecting people with nature. Whether you’re deeply interested in botany or simply in search of tranquility, Hoyt Arboretum provides a place to connect with the earth.

Underground music scene

Portland’s underground music scene thrives beneath the city’s surface, a lively hub where the city’s raw musical talent shines. Intimate venues scattered around Portland become the stage for musicians who step away from the mainstream, offering music lovers a diverse mix of sounds from indie rock to experimental jazz. This vibrant scene is a melting pot of creativity, where each performance is a unique experience.

Every visit to these underground music haunts promises a new discovery, be it a fusion of folk and electronic music or a singer-songwriter capturing the Pacific Northwest’s soul. The venues, from cozy basements to transformed warehouses, add to the ambiance, making each concert an integral part of Portland’s cultural fabric. In the warmth of the stage lights, you’ll connect with the city’s essence through music.

Powell’s City of Books

Powell’s City of Books is a paradise for readers, covering an entire city block and inviting visitors to explore its vast collection. Inside, the air is filled with the familiar scent of books, promising countless adventures and stories waiting to be discovered. Each section of the store offers a gateway to different worlds, from the classics to the depths of science fiction, creating a timeless space for exploration and imagination.

This iconic bookstore captivates not only with its extensive selection but also with the stories and experiences shared by visitors and staff alike. It’s a place where chance encounters with a book can have a profound impact on your life, embodying the magic and transformative power of reading. Powell’s celebrates the rich tapestry of human expression, making it a cherished destination for those in search of inspiration, escape, or knowledge.

Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder where the Columbia River carves through the Cascades, showcasing stunning landscapes. From the top, you can see waterfalls, eagles flying, and the river’s graceful path. It’s a scenic beauty that captivates anyone who looks upon it, surrounded by lush greenery.

This gorge is an open invitation for exploration, offering hiking, kayaking, and the chance to enjoy the fresh, pine-filled air. It stands as a majestic escape from urban life, a place to marvel at nature’s creations and feel a profound connection with the environment. It’s a reminder of the world’s inherent beauty, waiting just outside the city.

Pioneer Courthouse Square

Pioneer Courthouse Square, known as Portland’s living room, pulses with the city’s life and community energy. It’s where locals come together for celebrations, protests, performances, and connections, offering a rich tapestry of experiences from casual chess games to elaborate holiday festivities, each reflecting Portland’s cultural diversity.

Stepping into the square, you’re enveloped in Portland’s dynamic spirit. This hub of art, commerce, and civic engagement tells the stories of its people, showcasing their resilience, creativity, and warmth. Regardless of the weather, the vibrant atmosphere of Pioneer Courthouse Square provides a glimpse into the city’s heart, making it an essential stop for anyone eager to explore Portland’s essence.

Portland Timbers Game

At Providence Park, the Portland Timbers’ games electrify the atmosphere, drawing fans dressed in green into a vibrant community celebration. Soccer here goes beyond the sport, becoming a symbol of unity and passion within Portland, echoing the city’s strong sense of loyalty and vibrant spirit.

The experience of watching a game is immersive, filled with chants and the powerful roar of the crowd that resonates deep into the night. This moment captures more than just a love for soccer; it symbolizes a shared sense of triumph and belonging. Standing among fans in Providence Park, you’re at the heart of Portland, a city deeply connected by its support for the Timbers.

Council Crest Park

At Council Crest Park, perched high above Portland, you’re treated to a breathtaking panoramic view that spans from the city’s twinkling downtown lights to the majestic peaks of the Cascade Range. The view here stretches far and wide, capturing the beauty of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams against the changing sky, from sunrise to sunset.

More than just a spot for sightseeing, Council Crest Park offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s noise. It’s a perfect place for romantic moments or quiet reflection, surrounded by greenery and fresh air. This park invites you to take a pause, breathe in deeply, and fully immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere, whether shrouded in fog or glowing in the evening light.

Alberta Arts District

Dive into the vibrant Alberta Arts District, Portland’s heart of creativity and originality. This lively neighborhood transforms into a living artwork, with colorful murals and unique finds in every corner. Galleries, boutiques, and cafes showcase the city’s artistic flair, offering a blend of visual and culinary arts that captivate visitors.

Every first Thursday, the district becomes even more alive with the First Thursday event, a celebration of local art and culture. Streets fill with energy as people explore open galleries, stalls, and enjoy live performances, making art an immersive experience. Here, art goes beyond being seen—it’s felt, engaged with, and becomes a part of daily life, inviting everyone to be part of Portland’s dynamic artistic scene.

These additional activities further illustrate Portland’s multifaceted allure, from its breathtaking natural vistas and rich cultural tapestry to its culinary innovation and vibrant arts scene. Portland is a city that invites exploration and offers endless opportunities for discovery, making it a destination that truly has something for everyone.