Things to do

Things To Do In Portland, Oregon

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With its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and stunning scenery, it's no wonder that Portland has earned a reputation as one of the most beloved cities in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, beer connoisseur, or a lover of the weird and wonderful, Portland has something for everyone.

The list of things to do in Portland pulsates with an irresistible blend of urban cool and natural beauty. Pack your travel bags, embrace the unexpected, and discover why Portland is truly a city that deserves its title: Beervana, and so much more!

Forest Park Hike

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Breathe in fresh air on the miles of trails in Forest Park, a sprawling urban oasis offering hikes for all levels, from casual strolls to challenging climbs. The park features a variety of terrain, including dense forests, meandering creeks, rolling hills, and steep ravines.

Trails range from easy to moderate difficulty levels, suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The Wildwood Trail, Lower Macleay Trail to Pittock Mansion, Maple Trail, Leif Erikson Drive, and Holman Lane Trail are the popular ones.

Voodoo Doughnut

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Forget your classic glazed and sprinkles. Voodoo boasts over 80 flavors, with new concoctions regularly added to the mix. Brace yourself for creations like The Maple Bacon Bar, Captain America Donut, Dirt Doughnut, Maris Piper Bar, and Priscilla Presley Donut.

From the iconic pink boxes to the walls adorned with Day of the Dead imagery and pop culture references, prepare for a visually stimulating experience. Pair your donut with a cup of their house-roasted coffee blend.

Columbia River Gorge

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Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and numerous recreational opportunities, the Columbia River Gorge is a must-visit place in the USA. Hike, bike, or drive through the scenic Columbia River Gorge, offering stunning waterfalls, viewpoints, and historical sites.

It boasts an extensive network of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, from strolls to challenging treks. Visitors can explore the lush forests of Douglas fir, western red cedar, and bigleaf maple, as well as wildflower meadows and desert shrublands.

Oregon Zoo

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Portland Oregon attractions are incomplete without mentioning Oregon Zoo. Encounter diverse animal species, including elephants, pandas, and gorillas. Learn about conservation efforts and enjoy interactive exhibits.

The zoo also hosts special events and seasonal attractions, such as ZooLights during the holiday season, summer concert series, and conservation-themed festivals. This place serves as a vital resource for wildlife conservation in the Pacific Northwest.

Pittock Mansion

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Explore a historic mansion with panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains at Pittock Mansion. Learn about Portland's early history and the Pittock family while touring the opulent rooms and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Ascend the elegant marble staircase, adorned with intricate wrought iron railings. Marvel at the vibrant stained glass windows, each depicting a different scene or motif. Look up and admire the ornate hand-painted ceilings in various rooms. Step into the richly paneled library, lined with bookshelves and featuring a fireplace.

Mount Hood

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Looking for some fun things to do in Portland? Embark on an adventure to Mount Hood, Oregon's highest peak. Hike, ski, snowboard, go fishing, swim, or simply admire the majestic snow-capped summit.

Several campgrounds are scattered around Mount Hood, offering opportunities for both developed and primitive camping. Enjoy camping under the stars surrounded by towering forests, with amenities ranging from RV hookups to backcountry campsites.

Wine Tasting In Willamette Valley

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Tour the scenic Willamette Valley, renowned for its Pinot Noir vineyards. Indulge in wine tastings, savor local cuisine, and enjoy the rolling hills and charming towns. This is the perfect stuff to do Portland OR USA for honeymooners.

With over 700 wineries scattered across rolling hills and charming towns, it's a haven for wine enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable tasting experience. Intimate wineries, sprawling vineyards with stunning views, or urban tasting rooms – each offers a unique experience.

Multnomah Falls

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Approximately 30 miles east of downtown Portland, along the Historic Columbia River Highway, the falls are surrounded by lush greenery, including ferns, moss-covered rocks, and old-growth forest, creating a tranquil and enchanting atmosphere.

Be mesmerized by the iconic Multnomah Falls, a 620-foot cascading wonder accessible by a short hike or tram ride. Capture breathtaking photos and soak in the serene atmosphere. A series of hiking trails wind through the Columbia River Gorge, providing opportunities for visitors to explore the area's natural beauty.

Last Thursday Art Walk

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Immerse yourself in Portland's vibrant art scene on the Last Thursday Art Walk. Every last Thursday of the month, from March to November, the Alberta Arts District transforms into a bustling hub of artistic expression. Streets come alive with pop-up exhibitions, installations, and performances.

Explore galleries, studios, and pop-up exhibitions while enjoying live music and street performers. Explore diverse mediums like painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media, discovering emerging and established talent.

Portland Food Carts

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Savor the diverse culinary scene at Portland's food cart pods. Popular pods include Cartopia, Alder Pod, and the Mississippi Marketplace. Portland's food carts represent a melting pot of culinary influences from around the world.

Visitors can find everything from traditional Thai street food to inventive fusion cuisine, artisanal sandwiches, gourmet burgers, vegan fare, and much more. Many carts specialize in specific types of cuisine or dishes, such as wood-fired pizza, Korean barbecue, sushi burritos, or handcrafted ice cream.

Portland Saturday Market

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Wondering what are some things to do Oregon Portland? Discover handcrafted treasures at the Portland Saturday Market, a bustling haven for local artisans selling jewelry, clothing, art, and more. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and support local talent 

Operating every Saturday and Sunday from March to December, it's not just a market; it's a vibrant cultural hub where handcrafted treasures, live music, and delicious food collide. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this iconic market.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

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Find tranquility in the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a meticulously designed haven inspired by China's Suzhou gardens. Wander through koi ponds, rock gardens, and pavilions, experiencing serenity amidst the city.

Visitors can admire architectural features like tiled roofs, carved wooden screens, and intricate latticework. Docent-led tours are available for those interested in learning more about the history, design, and symbolism of the garden.

Washington Park

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Spend a day exploring the various attractions in Washington Park, including the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, International Rose Test Garden, and Children's Museum. Pack a delicious spread and enjoy a leisurely picnic under the shade of towering trees.

Hike or bike through miles of trails seamlessly connecting Washington Park to the majestic Forest Park, Portland's largest urban forest. Explore diverse ecosystems, encounter hidden waterfalls, and soak in breathtaking city views.

Oregon Coast

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Escape to the rugged Oregon Coast, where crashing waves, sandy beaches, and charming towns await. Fun things to do in Portland Oregon, include exploring tide pools, hiking along cliffs, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets.

With over 80 public beach access points along the coast, the Oregon Coast is a paradise for beachcombers. Explore sandy shores, search for agates and seashells, and enjoy leisurely walks along the water's edge.

The Grotto

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Wander through the hidden gem of The Grotto, a unique sanctuary built into a basalt cliff adorned with religious statues and waterfalls. Explore its labyrinthine paths and admire its craftsmanship.

As you enter The Grotto, step back in time and embark on a journey through a world unlike any other. Lush greenery and cascading waterfalls create a serene atmosphere, while the intricate rockwork reveals a treasure trove of religious figures and scenes.

Powell's City of Books

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Get lost in the literary labyrinth of Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore. Explore countless genres, discover hidden gems, and chat with knowledgeable booksellers. Make sure to put this spot in your things to do in Portland list.

The bookstore is organized into color-coded rooms and sections, each focusing on different genres and categories of books. Navigating Powell's can feel like embarking on a literary treasure hunt, with endless shelves lined with books waiting to be discovered.

International Rose Test Garden

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Stroll through the fragrant International Rose Test Garden, boasting over 10,000 rose varieties in bloom from spring to fall. From classic crimson beauties to delicate pastel hues and unusual bi-colored blooms, the garden offers a visual and olfactory feast for the senses.

While the peak blooming season typically occurs in June, the IRTG offers a vibrant display of roses from late May to October. As you stroll through the various sections, you'll be enveloped by an intoxicating array of colors and scents.

Pearl District

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This former industrial area has been transformed into a trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops. Explore the cobblestone streets and discover local art installations and street murals.

Visitors can explore contemporary art exhibitions, attend gallery openings, and even meet artists in their studios during First Thursday Gallery Walks, a monthly event held in the neighborhood. Wander through streets and alleys to discover an array of colorful street art and murals adorning building facades and public spaces.

Portland's Craft Beer Scene

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Things to do Portland Oregon include touring and tastings at the breweries to find the beer you like. Portland, Oregon, proudly holds the nickname "Beervana" for a reason.

With over 800 breweries within city limits and the surrounding metro area, Portland boasts one of the most diverse and innovative craft beer scenes in the world. From small, experimental breweries to established regional powerhouses, Portland offers a beer for every taste and occasion.

Portland Art Museum

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Delve into the world of art at the Portland Art Museum, home to an extensive collection of artworks spanning ancient to contemporary periods. Highlights include European paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, and period rooms.

The museum's European art collection spans from the Middle Ages to the present day, featuring works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a casual admirer, the museum invites you to explore its galleries and experience the transformative power of art.