What is There to Do in Portland, Oregon?

Are you planning a trip to Portland, Oregon? If so, you’re in luck—the city is full of exciting activities, sightseeing opportunities and cultural attractions. While the list of things to do in Portland is seemingly endless, we’ve rounded up the top attractions that you simply can’t miss while in town.

Outdoorsy Adventures

Portland is an outdoor-lover’s paradise. The city is interspersed with parks, trails, mountaintops and plenty of green space to explore—not to mention a wide range of outdoor adventures that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States. From biking around town to climbing a steep mountain peak and traipsing through a verdant forest, here are a few of the most exciting outdoor activities to try in Portland:

• Mountain Biking – Portland’s terrain is rugged, making it an ideal playground for mountain biking enthusiasts. The most popular trails are Templeton Trail, Rocky Point and Surveyors Ridge.
• Rock Climbing – Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rock climber, there are plenty of amazing sites in and around Portland that offer both single or multi-pitch climbs. Try Wilson Rocks, Sandstone Cliffs or Frenchmans Peak.
• Hiking – Hiking in Portland is one of the city’s favorite pastimes. Spread across the entire area are countless trails that range from easy strolls to strenuous treks. A few must-try routes include Dog Mountain Trail, Oneonta Gorge and Talapus Lake Trail.
• Kayaking – Rent a kayak and strike out on your own along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. If you’d like to explore further, take an organized tour that will take you along the waterways of the Northwest and show you the best views of the city.
• Whitewater Rafting – Looking for a little more excitement? Then look no further than whitewater rafting and tubing on one of Portland’s many rivers. The best spots are Sandy River, Clackamas River and Clackamette Park.

Downtown Attractions

In addition to the load of outdoor activities, there is also no shortage of interesting downtown attractions too. Here are some of the best places to explore in the city center:

• Historic Buildings – Take a tour of some of Portland’s most iconic downtown buildings like Heathman Hotel, White Stag Block, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall and other landmarks in Portland’s cultural district.
• Portland Art Museum – See world-class art exhibitions that cover a range of genres from modern art to impressionism. The museum also hosts regular events throughout the year, from lectures to nighttime events.
• Powell’s City of Books – Visit what is said to be the world’s largest independent bookstore. It features multiple massive floors filled with nearly a million books and it is easy to lose track of time here.
• Tom McCall Waterfront Park – Take a walk along this beautiful park that lines up much of the western part of Portland’s downtown area. There are plenty of benches around for relaxing and taking in views of Mt. Hood in the distance.
• Japanese Garden – Visit this stunning urban oasis covering 12 acres that includes five distinct garden styles. If you visit from April through October, go for the popular full-moon gazing.

Unique Experiences

Of course no trip to Portland would be complete without experiencing some of its more eclectic offerings. From beer tasting events to aerial tram rides, here are few things that you should not miss:

• Portland Aerial Tram – Enjoy an unforgettable view as you journey over 500 feet in the air as you ride the Portland Aerial Tram up Mount OHSU. The ride alone is worth it just for the breathtaking view!
• Shutterbus Photo Tours – Explore Portland in style aboard an iconic vintage Shutterbus. Just hop onboard – cameras are provided – and take stunning photos as your experienced tour guide takes you around town.
• PDX Beer Geek Tours – This tour company was started by local brew connoisseurs and takes you through award-winning breweries and the vibrant craft beer culture of Portland. Tour guides provide beer history lessons and introduce you to some lesser-known local brews.

With plenty of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions and unique experiences waiting to be explored, it’s easy to see why so many people flock to Portland every year. Regardless of whether you’re looking for laid-back outdoor fun or want to explore all that this thriving city has to offer, you’ll find something here to enjoy!

An Insider’s Guide to Portland, Oregon: Discover the City beyond the Must-See Attractions

Portland, Oregon, is famous for being one of the most vibrant and eclectic cities in America. This guide will offer visitors an insider’s perspective and guide them through the city’s hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, and unique history, ensuring that their Portland adventure is unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Venture off the Beaten Path

Portland is home to several popular tourist attractions, such as the Portland Art Museum and the Japanese Garden. However, the city offers many lesser-known gems that tourists must see. One such place is Powell’s City of Books, a vast bookstore that spans an entire city block. The Lan Su Chinese Garden, a serene and tranquil place, offers a glimpse of Chinese culture in Portland. Forest Park is another hidden gem that offers scenic hikes on its well-maintained trails.

Dining Spots: Delight in Local Flavors

Portland is known for its food, and the city offers ample opportunities to taste local cuisine. For a breakfast that will energize you throughout the day, try the Blue Star Donuts, where the freshly baked donuts are a treat for your taste buds. For lunch, grab a bite at Nong’s Khao Man Gai for their signature dish Khao Mun Gai (Thai-style chicken with rice) that has been tantalizing locals’ taste buds since 2009. A unique dining experience awaits at Pok Pok, a Thai restaurant that offers unusual dishes such as Ike’s fish sauce wings, adding a different level of taste to your palette.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace Portland’s Art and Music Scene

Portland is famous for its thriving cultural scene with various festivals, art galleries, and music venues. One such event is the Portland Rose Festival, which celebrates the city’s floral heritage with numerous events and activities for everyone. For art lovers, the Portland Art Museum offers an extensive collection of works from renowned artists from across the world. For music enthusiasts, the Doug Fir Lounge, Mississippi Studios, and the Aladdin Theatre are some of the city’s best places to catch live performances from local and international musicians.

Local History: Unravel Portland’s Past

Portland’s history is fascinating and offers insights into the city’s growth and prosperity. For a glimpse of the city’s past, head to the Pittock Mansion, which was built in 1914 and offers stunning views of the city. The Oregon Historical Society offers a variety of exhibits detailing the state’s history, with an extensive collection of artifacts, and documents spanning over a century.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Explore Beyond Conventional

One way to make your visit to Portland unforgettable is to explore and experience the city uniquely. Explore the famous Multnomah Falls, a stunning waterfall that stands at 620 feet, while hiking the trail that leads you to the top of the Falls. Visit the Kennedy School, which is a renovated elementary school, transformed into a boutique hotel offering a unique experience. End your day with an unconventional activity by watching movies at the outdoor Cinema Under the Stars.

Conclusion

Portland, Oregon, is a city that offers something unique for everyone. By venturing off the beaten path, embracing the city’s cultural scene, and savoring its delicious local cuisine, you can explore and experience Portland in ways that go beyond the conventional touristy activities. Make sure you explore our off-the-beaten-path suggestions, as they are designed to give you a different perspective of the city. We hope this insider’s guide will make your visit unforgettable and offer you a glimpse of the city like a true local.