How to Plan Your Portland Afternoon City Tour

Portland, Oregon is a vibrant and unique city that has something to offer for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, a tour of Portland is a must-do to get the best out of your visit. The Best of Portland City Tour is an excellent option to see the top sights and attractions on a small-group tour with a local guide to learn about the history, culture, and everyday life of the city.

Overview of the Portland Afternoon City Tour

The Best of Portland City Tour is a 3.5 hours long adventure that takes visitors on a journey through the city’s downtown and its surrounds. You’ll experience the must-see attractions like Pioneer Square and the International Rose Test Garden, and explore the trendy neighborhoods of NW 23rd Avenue and Mississippi Avenue.

Your guide will pick you up from your central Portland hotel and handle all logistics and itinerary for your trip, including transportation to and from the attractions. The tour is a hassle-free way to see the city and recommended for visitors who are short on time but want to get the most out of their visit.

Attractions on the Portland Afternoon City Tour

The Best of Portland City Tour includes several stops at popular attractions in the city. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

International Rose Test Garden

The International Rose Test Garden located in Washington Park, is one of the most stunningly beautiful rose gardens in the world. The garden covers over 3 acres and features more than 500 varieties of roses. It’s a perfect example of the beauty and handwork that make Portland a unique and special city. Please note that this stop is seasonal and will only be available if the roses are in bloom.

Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is the heart of downtown Portland and is surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings such as the Pioneer Courthouse, Portland’s first federal building. The square is a popular meeting place for locals and tourist alike, especially during the summer months.

NW 23rd Avenue

NW 23rd Avenue is known locally as “Trendy Third.” It is one of Portland’s most fashionable shopping districts with plenty of stores, galleries, restaurants, and bars that have a unique Portland vibe.

Nob Hill

Nob Hill is a trendy and upscale district that offers something for everyone, including trendy boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, and bars. It’s a fantastic part of the city to explore, and you can find some hidden gems around the area.

North Mississippi Avenue

North Mississippi Avenue is an up-and-coming neighborhood in Portland and has recently developed as a hub for visual arts, live music, and culinary experiences. The street features an array of small local shops, music venues, and restaurants representing the booming culture of Portland.

Booking the Portland Afternoon City Tour

Booking the Best of Portland City Tour is easy; you can visit the tour page on Viator and book your trip online. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at select downtown Portland hotels, live commentary on board, and bottled water. Food and drinks are not included, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to purchase goods at the stops.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the best of Portland with a local guide on the Best of Portland City Tour. Book your adventure in the City of Roses today and get ready to experience the eclectic and charming culture of Portland. Book the tour here.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Portland

Portland, Oregon, is a city that many people are curious about. Known for its outdoor recreation, coffee culture, and thriving food scene, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this Pacific Northwest gem. But with so much to explore, it’s not uncommon for visitors to have questions. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Portland.

1. What is the weather like in Portland?

Portland is located in the Pacific Northwest, which means it experiences mild, rainy winters and dry summers. The city is known for its overcast and rainy days, but it’s also prone to sunny weather during the summer months. Average temperatures during the summer months (June-August) range from the mid-70s to mid-80s, while winter temperatures (December-February) typically hover in the 40s-50s.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Portland?

Portland is home to some unique and interesting attractions that are definitely worth a visit. Here are some must-sees:

Portland Art Museum

This is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest, featuring an extensive collection of American and European art and rotating exhibitions.

International Rose Test Garden

Located in Washington Park, this is the oldest official continually operated public rose test garden in the United States. It’s free to visit and offers stunning views of Portland and the surrounding area.

Powell’s City of Books

This iconic independent bookstore occupies an entire city block and features over a million new and used books.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

This garden was built by artisans from Portland’s sister city of Suzhou, China. It’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring traditional Chinese architecture and beautiful plant life.

3. What neighborhoods should I visit in Portland?

Portland is known for its unique neighborhoods, each with its own personality and vibe. Here are a few worth exploring:

Nob Hill (Northwest Portland)

This neighborhood is known for its Victorian homes, trendy boutiques, and bustling nightlife.

Alberta Arts District (Northeast Portland)

This neighborhood is an artsy enclave, featuring galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Hawthorne (Southeast Portland)

This bohemian neighborhood features vintage shops, coffee houses, and food carts.

4. What is the food scene like in Portland?

Portland is a foodie’s paradise, with a thriving food scene that spans diverse cuisines and price points. Here are some popular spots to try:

Pok Pok

This Thai restaurant is a Portland institution, known for its signature dish, chicken wings.

Screen Door

This Southern-style restaurant offers fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and beignets.

Toro Bravo

This tapas-style restaurant serves up Spanish-inspired small plates and wines.

Voodoo Doughnut

This quirky doughnut shop offers creative flavors, like maple bacon and cereal-topped doughnuts.

5. Is Portland a bike-friendly city?

Yes! Portland has an extensive network of bike lanes and paths, making it one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country. Many of the city’s attractions are easily accessible by bike, and there are plenty of bike rental shops around town. Just be sure to wear a helmet!

6. What is the best way to get around Portland?

Portland has a variety of transportation options, including buses, light rail, streetcars, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. The city is also walkable, with many attractions clustered in downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. If you’re planning to explore beyond the city center, renting a car is a good option.

7. What is the music scene like in Portland?

Portland has a vibrant music scene, with venues ranging from small clubs to large amphitheaters. Some popular spots include the Crystal Ballroom, the Doug Fir Lounge, and the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.

8. What are some outdoor activities in Portland?

Portland is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. Here are some activities to try:

Hiking

Portland is surrounded by beautiful natural areas, making it a great place for hiking. The Columbia River Gorge, Forest Park, and Mount Hood are popular spots.

Biking

As previously mentioned, Portland is a bike-friendly city with plenty of bike paths and lanes.

Kayaking/Canoeing

The Willamette River and Columbia River offer opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.

Urban Parks

Portland has many beautiful city parks, including Washington Park, Laurelhurst Park, and Mt. Tabor Park.

Conclusion

Portland is a city that offers a little something for everyone, whether you’re a foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or culture vulture. We hope this guide has answered some of your most pressing questions about the city and inspired you to plan a visit!