Welcome to Portland, one of the most unique and vibrant cities in the Pacific Northwest! From delicious food and drink to stunning natural beauty, Portland truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do here. In this post, we’ll explore the best attractions and activities that Portland has to offer. So grab your walking shoes and your appetite, and let’s dive into all that Portland has to offer!
The 5 Best Activities to Do in Portland
- Portland Day Trip Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour
- Columbia Gorge and Mt Hood Tour
- Portland Hop on Hop Off Tour
- Portland Combo Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Trolley and Columbia River Gorge Tour
- 2pm Half Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland
The 5 Best Activities to Do in Portland
1. Portland Day Trip Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour
Escape the city for the day and experience the natural beauty of Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls. This guided tour will take you along the historic Columbia River Highway National Scenic Byway where you will witness the magnificent falls of Multnomah, Latourell, and Bridal Veil. Hassle-free pickup and drop-off is provided from select Portland hotels. Your driver/guide will provide live commentary during the tour while you enjoy the top-ranked attractions of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. This day trip is a great way to get into nature and experience the stunning beauty of Oregon. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as gratuities, are included. Please be ready for pickup at 09:00 AM at the front lobby doors and prepare to be amazed.
2. Columbia Gorge and Mt Hood Tour
Experience the unparalleled beauty of the Pacific Northwest on a full-day tour of the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood. This guided tour takes you through the Gorge’s top destinations, including stunning waterfalls and the iconic Bridge of the Gods. You’ll also have the chance to explore the charming city of Hood River, known for its vibrant local culture and delicious cuisine. Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable and friendly guide will provide live narration, giving you a deeper understanding of the area’s history, geology, and ecology. With a maximum group size of just 12 people, this intimate tour offers a truly personalized experience. Transportation in a luxury passenger van, bottled water, and lunch are all included in the tour price, and gratuity for your guide is recommended. The meeting point for the tour is at 900 SW Taylor St, located at the corner of Director Park at the cross-streets of SW 9th Ave and SW Taylor St.
3. Portland Hop on Hop Off Tour
Explore the unique and diverse cityscape of Portland on this hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour. With your choice of a 1- or 2-day trolley pass, you can create your own adventure with 13 possible stops, including the International Rose Test Garden, Powell’s Books, and the Pearl District. Your expert guide will provide informative commentary aboard the trolley, and you’ll have the flexibility to hop off and sightsee at your leisure. Enjoy traveling aboard an open-air or indoor seating trolley for your comfort. Your hop-on hop-off pass includes live on-board commentary, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off. You may start your tour at any of the designated stops listed and disembark at any available stop. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the best attractions and things to do in Portland.
4. Portland Combo Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Trolley and Columbia River Gorge Tour
Explore the beauty of urban Portland and the natural wonder of the Columbia River Gorge with this hop-on hop-off combo tour. With a 2-day sightseeing trolley pass, you can create your adventure and explore top attractions in Portland like the International Rose Test Garden, Powell’s City of Books, and the Oregon Zoo. Then, travel along the Lewis and Clark Trail to discover stunning landmarks such as Beacon Rock, Cape Horn, and Rooster Rock, all documented by Lewis and Clark. Photograph the majestic Multnomah Falls and the incredible Bonneville Dam and fish ladder. You’ll also admire the breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge as you travel along the Historic Columbia River Highway. The tour includes round-trip transport to and from the Columbia River Gorge, and the flexibility to visit the places that interest you most with the 2-day hop-on hop-off sightseeing trolley pass.
5. 2pm Half Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland
Escape the city for an afternoon exploring some of greater Portland’s most scenic falls. This half-day tour takes you to see Multnomah Falls and other falls along the Columbia River Gorge, home to the largest concentration of waterfalls in the country. Take plenty of pictures of the cascading waters or simply bask in their beauty. You’ll enjoy incredible panoramic views from the Crown Point Vista House while an expert guide fills you and your group in on local flora, fauna, and history. Hotel/port drop-off (select downtown Portland hotels), bottled water, and live on-board commentary are included. Food and drinks are not included. Transportation departs at 2:00 PM, and pickup points are available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Visitors to Portland often have many questions about the city, its attractions, and how to make the most of their trip. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Portland.1. What is the best time of year to visit Portland?
Portland has a mild, temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Portland depends on your interests and what you want to do while you’re here. Spring and summer (March to September) are the most popular times to visit Portland because the weather is mild and there are many outdoor events, including the famous Portland Rose Festival. Fall is also a good time to visit as the foliage turns stunning shades of red and gold. Winter is the least popular time to visit because it can be rainy and overcast, but there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.2. How do I get to Portland?
Portland is easily accessible by air, train, bus, or car. Portland International Airport (PDX) is located just 15 minutes from downtown Portland and is served by major airlines, including Alaska, Delta, Southwest, and United. Amtrak, Greyhound, and BoltBus also provide transportation to Portland. If you’re driving, Portland is located at the junction of I-5 and I-84.3. Where are the best places to stay in Portland?
Portland has a wide range of accommodations, including budget-friendly options, luxury hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. The most popular neighborhoods for tourists are downtown Portland and the surrounding Pearl District and Northwest Portland areas. These areas offer the most attractions, restaurants, and nightlife within walking distance. Other popular areas include Southeast Portland, which has a lot of quirky shops and restaurants, and North Portland, which has a laid-back vibe and great views of the city.4. What are the must-see attractions in Portland?
Portland is home to many unique attractions that are worth visiting, including:- Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore– The International Rose Test Garden, showcasing over 10,000 rose bushes
– The Portland Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world
– The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), where visitors can learn about science and technology through interactive exhibits
– The Portland Japanese Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city
5. What are some of the best restaurants in Portland?
Portland is known for its culinary scene, with a wide variety of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. Some of the most popular restaurants in the city include:- Pok Pok, serving Thai street food and renowned for its fish sauce wings– Le Pigeon, known for its French-inspired cuisine and innovative dishes
– Tasty n Alder, a popular brunch spot offering a variety of dishes from around the world
– Screen Door, serving Southern-style comfort food
– Andina, featuring Peruvian cuisine and a lively atmosphere
6. What are some of the best outdoor activities in Portland?
Portland is surrounded by natural beauty and offers many outdoor activities, including:- Hiking in Forest Park, the largest urban park in the United States– Biking along the Springwater Corridor Trail, a 40-mile paved trail that winds through the city
– Exploring the Columbia River Gorge, which offers scenic hiking trails and waterfalls
– Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the Willamette River
– Visiting the Oregon Zoo, which has over 1,800 animals from around the world
7. Are there any free things to do in Portland?
Yes, there are many free things to do in Portland! Some of the most popular include:- Visiting Washington Park and enjoying the views of the city and Mt. Hood– Exploring the Portland Saturday Market, which offers local crafts and food
– Browsing the art galleries in the Pearl District
– Strolling through the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a peaceful oasis in downtown Portland
– Taking a free tour of the Oregon State Capitol in nearby Salem
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Portland
Portland, Oregon is a vibrant city known for its excellent food, beautiful parks, and unique culture. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, you may be wondering what to do and see during your visit. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of must-see attractions and activities that will help you make the most of your time in Portland. Explore the Downtown Area
One of the best things to do in Portland is to explore the downtown area. It’s a walkable city, and you’ll find plenty of coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques to check out. The downtown area is home to some of Portland’s most iconic landmarks, including:The Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. It houses a robust collection of contemporary and modern art from around the world. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Courthouse Square, locally known as “Portland’s Living Room,” is an open-air public plaza located in the heart of downtown. You’ll find numerous events here throughout the year, such as concerts, food festivals, and farmers’ markets. Visit the Natural Beauty of Portland
Portland is known for its natural beauty, and there are several places you should visit during your stay:Washington Park
Washington Park is a large urban park located in the hills west of downtown Portland. It’s home to several attractions, including the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, and the International Rose Test Garden.Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the nearby Columbia River Gorge. It’s the tallest waterfall in Oregon and the second-tallest in the United States. You can hike to the top of the falls for a breathtaking view.Get a Taste of Portland’s Food Scene
Portland is known for its innovative and diverse food scene. Here are a few must-visit destinations for foodies:Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s City of Books is the largest independent bookstore in the world. It’s a Portland institution and a must-visit destination for book lovers. You can easily spend hours browsing its many floors of books.Food Carts
Portland has a thriving food cart scene, with over 500 food carts located throughout the city. You’ll find everything from pizza and tacos to vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Check Out Portland’s Craft Breweries
Portland is known as “Beervana” for a reason – it has more craft breweries than any other city in the world. Here are a few must-visit breweries:Deschutes Brewery
Deschutes Brewery is one of the largest craft breweries in the United States, and its Portland brewpub is a popular destination for beer lovers. You’ll find over a dozen of their beers on tap, along with delicious pub food.Great Notion Brewing
Great Notion Brewing is a beloved Portland brewery known for its hazy IPAs and innovative flavors. Their taproom is cozy and welcoming, with excellent beer and food.Book Your Tour Now
Portland is a fantastic destination for tourists, with something for everyone. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or beer enthusiast, there are plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy during your stay. We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit to this vibrant city.
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