The 47 Things to Do in Portland You Shouldn’t Miss
👉 Jump to: Things to Do in Portland | Free Things to Do | Food & Drink | Family Attractions | Seasonal Things to Do
Portland is a dynamic city with an endless amount of attractions. It’s no wonder that finding the best things to do can make your Oregon travel planning overwhelming.
As a West Coast local, I’ve been to Portland several times. My trips have led me to some of the best activities and places around the city.
I recommend dedicating at least 2-3 days to fully explore this Oregon city and not miss any of the best activities. Between the hiking, breweries, and historical attractions, you’ll be busy. And be sure to save my guide to where to stay in Portland. Now, let’s start exploring!
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47 Best Things to Do in Portland
Columbia River Gorge
Paddleboard or kayak down a still river on the outskirts of Portland’s city center.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (541) 308-1700 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: $5 Parking
The Columbia River Gorge is only 20 minutes outside of Portland but it will transport you into a whole other world. Here, deep gorges were carved by the snaking Columbia River to create a stunning and dramatic landscape.
Visitors can enjoy the “green Grand Canyon of Oregon” in a number of ways. Columbia River Gorge offers spectacular views, ample camping spots, hiking trails, and rafting opportunities. I recommend testing your physical limits up Dog Mountain, cycling around The Dalles, or simply taking in the beautiful scenery.
Multnomah Falls
Photograph one of Oregon’s most iconic natural landmarks.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (541) 308-1700 | Website | Hours: 9 am-6 pm Daily | Entrance: Free, $5 in the Summer
The impressive Multnomah Falls can be found about 45 minutes away from downtown Portland. In my experience, Multnomah Falls is definitely worth all the hype, especially if you hike to the high viewpoint.
Multnomah Falls is free to visit during non-summer months but a $2 permit is required in the summer. You can purchase it at Recreation.gov. I recommend visiting Multnomah Falls as early as possible to avoid long lines (especially in the summer).
🚗 Need a Car? Multnomah Falls is about 45 minutes outside of Portland. Rent a car from Discover Cars to save money getting around.
Portland Japanese Garden
Explore one of the most tranquil spots in Portland.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 223-1321 | Website | Hours: 10 am-6 pm Daily, Closed Tue | Entrance: $22.50 Adults, $19.50 Senior 65+, $18.50 Students with ID, $16.50 Children 6-17, Free 5 and Under
The Portland Japanese Garden is one of my favorite places in the city. Tranquility meets the natural world at this native plant oasis. The Portland Japanese Garden is even complete with a locally sourced treehouse-style tea house.
Spending time at the Portland Japanese Garden is one of the best ways to spend a calm day in the city. Don’t forget to check out the botanical art exhibit inside the museum before you leave!
👉 Pro Tip: Visit the gardens on a rainy day to curb heavy tourist crowds. Rainstorms also bring the tranquility of the gardens to another level.
Washington Park
Choose from a multitude of fun attractions at Portland’s most popular park.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 319-0999 | Website | Hours: 5 am-10 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
Washington Park is the best place to go for Portland visitors who want to relax and get a taste of everything. Multiple attractions are sprawled across the landscape of this ginormous green recreational area. This makes it easy to spend a whole day exploring local attractions, all concentrated within walking distance of each other.
Top Washington Park attractions include the Oregon Zoo, Portland Japanese Garden, the International Rose Test Garden, and Pittock Mansion, among others. I especially recommend Washington Park to short-term visitors, like those taking day trips from Seattle.
Mount Hood
Climb to the top of Oregon’s highest mountain, a glaciated peak of 11,249 feet.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (541) 467-2291 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free, $20 Climbing Fee
It’s hard to miss the dominating views of Mount Hood while flying into Portland. Spice up your metropolitan vacation with a trip to Oregon’s highest mountain. It’s surrounded by deep forests and vibrant springtime wildflower blooms. Mount Hood is hands down one of the best hikes near Portland.
Whether you’re fixin’ to climb, ski, or simply photograph the glacial peak of Mt. Hood, a trip to Oregon’s northern Cascade Mountains should definitely be in order. Be sure to also stop by Mt. Hood Brewing Co., one of my favorite places to grab a drink near Mt. Hood.
📚 Related Reading: Oregon National Parks & Monuments to Explore
Portland Art Museum
Get acquainted with local Oregonian artists with ever-changing museum exhibits.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 226-2811 | Website | Hours: 10 am-5 pm Daily, until 7 pm on Thursdays, Closed Mon & Tue | Entrance: $25 Adults, $22 Seniors 65+ & Students with ID, Free under 18 |👉 Browse Hotels near the Portland Art Museum on Booking
The Portland Art Museum is arguably one of the best museums in Portland. Exhibits on display vary each month, giving Portland locals a reason to visit semi-regularly. It’s truly a must-see museum for visitors and locals alike.
When I visited the art museum, an ancient Chinese archaeological collection was on display, as well as Indigenous art from a Native American artist. Upcoming exhibits include Guillermo del Toro: Crafting Pinocchio, and Black Artists of Oregon.
Powell’s City of Books
Settle down with a good book in the world’s largest new and used bookstore.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (800) 878-7323 | Website | Hours: 10 am-9 pm Daily | Entrance: Free | 👉 Browse Nearby Hotels on Booking
Powell’s City of Books is no ordinary bookstore. This ginormous book palace is the largest used and new bookstore in the world. This very fact makes it worth checking out.
Located in the heart of downtown Portland near yummy restaurants like Thai Peacock and clothing stores like Buffalo Exchange, Powell’s Books has over a million books. In fact, it takes up an entire block!
Pick out a good book, order a coffee, and enjoy a gloomy Portland afternoon inside this cozy bookstore.
Voodoo Doughnut
Indulge in sugary goodness at this classic Portland donut spot.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 241-4704 | Website | Hours: 6 am-3 am Daily | Entrance: Free
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Voodoo Doughnuts. The unique, gourmet delicacies sold at this Disney-like doughnut establishment are unique, to say the least. My favorite donut is the classic Voodoo doughnut—complete with cherry filling right under a pretzel “stab wound.”
Other magical flavors include maple bacon, pineapple delight, and banana cream pie. Voodoo Doughnuts is also open late, which is a great perk after a late evening enjoying the Portland nightlife scene.
Willamette River
Take advantage of Portland sunshine with a paddle board or kayaking adventure down the Willamette River.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
The Willamette River is 187 miles long and defines Portland’s landscape. Visiting the Willamette River is one of the best things to do with the whole family.
I recommend kayaking or paddle boarding down the famous Willamette River. It’s accessible from nearly a dozen docks between Oregon City and north Portland. Here, quiet, calm waters will take you along the edge of Ross Island or to the heart of downtown Portland with a close-up view of St. John’s Bridge.
Alberta Arts District
This art walk is a must-visit, should you find yourself in town on the last Thursday of the month.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: 503-823-4000 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free | 👉 Top Place to Stay in Alberta Arts District
I recommend checking out the Alberta Arts District if you find yourself in Portland on the last Thursday of the month. This 15-block community art event takes place on NE Alberta Street between 15th and 30th Avenue from 6-9 pm.
You can watch street performers, shop for a locally-made pinata, or simply revel in the buzz of this exciting monthly Portland event.
Portland Rose Festival
Ride the Ferris wheel or try your luck at an arcade game at Portland’s most beloved annual festival.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 227-2681 | Website | Hours: Seasonal, May & June | Entrance: $20 General Admission
The Portland Rose Festival has been one of the biggest festivals in Portland since 1907. The festival has May and June programming and features parades, carnival rides, art shows, dragon boat races, and more. It’s held at the Portland International Rose Test Garden.
Each year the Rose Festival comes alive with floral floats, marching bands, and overly enthusiastic Portlanders eager to celebrate their favorite city’s celebration.
Vista House at Crown Point
A hidden gem along the Columbia River Gorge that features some of the most stunning views in Portland.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 695-2240 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Fri-Mon, Closed Tue-Thu | Entrance: Free
I stumbled upon Vista House by happenstance. I was driving back into Portland from Multnomah Falls and accidentally detoured to this amazing lookout spot.
Totally free to visit, Vista House features some of the most incredible views I saw on my last trip to Portland. You’ll see panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge that will blow you away. On top of that, the historic building showcases unique architecture and has a small cafe and gift shop.
After my visit, I did some Googling. I discovered that this historic landmark is practically never mentioned in other Portland guides. But it should be!
Forest Park
Enter into a whole new world without venturing too far from Portland at this mossy green oasis.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: 503-823-4000 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Forest Park is home to 52,000 miles of extensive hiking trails and native wildlife refuges. Forest Park is only 20 minutes outside of downtown Portland across St. John’s Bridge.
The Wildwood Trail is one of the most popular trails in this area, where you can hike under a thick forest canopy. Macleay Park Trail to Pittock Mansion is also a popular trail I’d recommend.
Portland Aerial Tram
Hold on tight as you soar high above the Portland cityscape.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 5:30 am-9:30 pm Mon-Fri, 9 am-5 pm Sat, Closed Sun | Entrance: $8.75
The Portland Aerial Tram is one of the best ways to see all of Downtown Portland. For a small $8.50 round-trip fee, you can soar above the clouds to reach the high point at Oregon Health & Science University campus.
Take a panoramic photo of Portland’s cityscape and try to spot your hotel on your way back down on the tram.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Sip some local tea surrounded by native Chinese flora in this breathtaking botanical garden.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 228-8131 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6:30 pm daily | Entrance: $16 Adults, $15 Senior 62+ & Students with ID, $13, Ages 6-18, Free Under 6
Rediscover your inner peace at the serene Lan Su Chinese Garden. Explore native Chinese plants, decorative stonework lining the garden, and an authentic teahouse.
Lan Su Chinese Garden also hosts fun events like brush painting demonstrations, music in the garden, and Tai Chi classes.
Mount Tabor Park
Experience 360-degree views atop one of the city’s high points.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: 503-823-7529 | Website | Hours: 5 am-10 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
Hike to the top of Portland’s very own extinct volcano: Mount Tabor. One of the best views of Portland can be seen from Mount Tabor’s mountaintop. Here, there are 360-degree views of the downtown Portland skyline.
Overall, Mount Tabor Park is a great place to relax with the whole family. There are places to run, rest, and play.
OMSI
Explore the sciences at this child-friendly Portland museum.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 797-4000 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am-5:30 pm Tue-Sun, Closed Mon | Entrance: $20, Adult, $17, Senior 63+, $15, Ages 3-13, Free Under 3
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is one of the most popular things to do in Portland with children. Families can learn more about the scientific world here. There are hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, an empirical theater, natural sciences hall, and more.
OMSI is located right along the Willamette River. Your family is sure to enjoy all the fun and engaging exhibits and activities this museum has to offer.
Day Trip to Cannon Beach
Visit one of the most recognizable natural attractions in Oregon, less than 2 hours from Portland.
📍 Google Maps | Distance: 1.5 hours from Downtown Portland
Cannon Beach is one of the most iconic places in Oregon. With its dramatic rock formations, expansive shoreline, and idyllic surroundings, it’s a must-visit if you have the time. Its most recognizable feature is Haystack Rock (pictured above), a basalt sea stack.
The best things to do at Cannon Beach are to simply enjoy the beach and its scenic surroundings. Have a picnic on the sand (but be mindful of the seagulls — they’re ruthless), take photos, and visit nearby Ecola State Park. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot tons of wildlife like I did during my visit. I got to see elk!
The easiest way to reach Cannon Beach is by driving. But if you don’t have a car, you can take this highly-rated full day tour of the Oregon Coast that leaves from Portland.
Go Thrifting
Portland has an amazing thrift and vintage scene if you know where to look.
You’re in for a treat in Portland if you love all things thrifting and vintage. The city is home to some of the best spots I’ve shopped. What really surprised me, though, was the sheer amount of good shops there were across Portland.
Some of my favorites were on the east side of the city, like Urbanite, Hollywood Vintage, and House of Vintage, but there are countless others. I picked up so many great finds that I had to ship a box home at the end of my trip! I also enjoyed thrifting around Nob Hill and Downtown Portland.
Free Things to Do in Portland
Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Walk your four-legged friend alongside one of Oregon’s most notorious rivers.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 823-7529 | Website | Hours: 5 am-12 am Daily | Entrance: Free
Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a nearly 37-acre park that runs parallel to the Willamette River in Downtown Portland. Tom McCall Waterfront Park is one of the best places to enjoy a peaceful morning in the city.
The riverfront and greenery are perfect for early morning workouts and walking the pups. I love to come here with watercolors to paint the blooming cherry blossom trees.
Portland Saturday Market
Meet local Portland artisans at this arts and crafts market.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 222-6072 | Website | Hours: 10 am-5 pm Sat | Entrance: Free
The Portland Saturday Market has it all from ceramics to jewelry, to hand-crafted figurines, paintings, and more. Over 150 booths showcase arts and crafts here.
Rain or shine, the Portland Saturday Market will never leave you hanging. It runs from March through December and is located in the heart of Portland. There’s truly no better way to source local art than by visiting the Portland Saturday Market.
The Wishing Tree
A sweet, totally free activity in Northeast Portland, where you can write a wish and attach it to a tree, alongside hundreds of others’ wishes.
📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free
The Wishing Tree is a simple yet totally sweet ‘landmark’ in Portland. Technically, there are two “wishing trees” in Northeast Portland, but the one I visited was at 4048 N Williams Ave.
The premise of the wishing tree is simple — you write a wish on a small piece of paper and attach it to the tree. Paper and pens are provided at the site. Besides writing my own wish, I really enjoyed reading the wishes of others. They ranged from serious and endearing to downright goofy and everything in between.
Be sure to stop and leave your mark (wish) at this unique Portland attraction.
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Attend a local community event at this brick-lined square.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 223-1613 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am-5 pm Daily, Closed Sat & Sun | Entrance: Free
Pioneer Courthouse Square is the center of many events in Portland. The historical, brick-lined square hosts more than 300 annual events. This includes concerts and organized marathons throughout Portland.
A Starbucks and local food trucks are also on-site at Pioneer Courthouse Square. This makes it an ideal place to spend a few free hours in Portland.
Witch’s Castle
Wander through the woods to an enchanted, yet abandoned, fortress in the woods.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 823-4000 | Website | Hours: 5 am-10 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
Witch’s Castle is a two-story enchanted stone fortress in Portland’s Forest Park. The fairytale structure may look whimsical and unassuming, but it’s actually steeped in murder history.
Today, Witch’s Castle is one of the most popular Forest Park hikes for both locals and visitors alike. It only takes 10-15 minutes to reach Witch’s Castle via the Wildwood Trail.
Lastly, you might hear Witch’s Castle referred to as “Macleay Park Shelter.”
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Enjoy endless acres of a conglomerate of vibrant wildflowers.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: 503 267 7509 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5:30 pm daily, 1 pm – 5:30 pm Wed | Entrance: $9 adults, $8 seniors, $6 children ages 6-18
Portland’s Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden calls wildflower enthusiasts from all over Oregon. Nine acres of vibrant wildflowers line the premises. From rare species to azaleas and hybrid rhododendrons. This makes Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden great for taking photos.
The best time to visit Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is in early April when hundreds of early-blooming rhododendrons come to life.
The Grotto
Attend a mass or simply appreciate the tranquility at this carved-out rock altar space.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 254-7371 | Website | Hours: 9 am-6:30 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
The Grotto is by far one of the most unique attractions in Portland. The cliffside shrine is a woodland sanctuary dedicated to Our Sorrowful Mother. Here, regular Roman Catholic services are hosted. The Grotto is completely free of charge and is a peaceful place to relax with a book just outside of the city center.
Hoyt Arboretum
Hike among native Portland flora and discover over 2,300 species of trees and shrubs.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 865-8733 | Website | Hours: 5 am-10 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
Washington Park’s Hoyt Arboretum is a forested adventure to remember. The living museum is the best place in Portland for nature enthusiasts.
Discover native flora and occasional fauna in the Hoyt Arboretum’s 190 acres, complete with 12 miles of hiking trails. Hoyt Arboretum is also home to 2,300 species of trees and shrubs from six different continents.
Salmon Street Springs
Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee to go while you watch the synchronized dance of this famous Portland fountain.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 823-7529 | Website | Hours: 5 am-12 am Daily | Entrance: Free
Salmon Street Springs is an outdoor fountain and a Portland landmark. It is located at the intersection of Naito Parkway at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
Cool off during a hot Pacific Northwestern day at the Salmon fountain. Or, simply relax in the park while watching the synchronized flows of the fountain water while you sip on a cup of to-go coffee.
Food & Drink
Pearl District Breweries
Indulge yourself in the local flavors of Portland on this brewery-lined street.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: most breweries 11:30 am – 9:30 pm daily | Entrance: Free
Most of Portland’s top-notch breweries are in the lively, up-and-coming Pearl District. Many Portland locals hang out in the Pearl District, thanks to the variety of breweries in the area.
I highly recommend checking out 10 Barrel Brewing Portland. You can sip on a locally-concocted brew on their rooftop patio and people-watch kooky Portland characters below.
Just note that the Pearl District can be packed on the weekends since this area is popular with people taking day trips from Seattle. Be prepared for crowds and only bring the essentials.
📚 Related Reading: Learn about the Pearl District and other cool areas in our guide on where to stay in Portland.
Cartopia Food Carts
Sit in the fresh air for a local Portland dinner.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 11 am-10 pm daily | Entrance: Free
You’ll find multiple food cart locations in Portland. None come close to the acclaim of the Cartopia Food Carts of Southeast Hawthorne Blvd. Cartopia offers a multitude of culinary treats from Thai food, to burgers, to tacos, sweets, and more. It’s been a vibrant city staple since 2008.
This is one of the best places to eat in East Portland. It even gives top Seattle restaurants a run for their money on hot summer nights.
Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen
A Downtown Portland restaurant with some of the best pho I’ve ever tasted.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 222-0047 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 2:30 pm & 4 pm – 11 pm daily
It’s no secret that Portland has an amazing food scene. In fact, it’s one of the reasons why the city was named one of the best places to travel in 2025 by Travel Lemming. Seriously, though, if you like Vietnamese food, you’ve GOT to try Luc Lac.
The restaurant is located in Downtown Portland and features all the Vietnamese classics. Everything’s great, but the star of the menu is the pho. The broth is SO flavorful. When I went, I declared it the best pho I’d ever tasted, and today, that still holds true. On top of the good food, the interiors and decor are just cool.
The Pie Spot
A local pie shop with delicious seasonal sweet and savory pies.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 913-5103 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8 pm daily
If you like pie (or even if you don’t), you should make a stop at the Pie Spot in the Kerns neighborhood. This place whips up delicious hand-formed pies, both sweet and savory. It’s the perfect post-hike treat, or picnic food to take along with you (like I did in the picture above).
I recommend the personal-sized chicken pot pie and then a sweet, seasonal pie to top it off. I especially loved the blueberry ginger and lemon vanilla bean pies. During my last visit, I think I visited the pie spot twice… or even thrice.
Salt & Straw
A Portland-founded ice cream shop known for their unique flavor combinations.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 11 am – 11 pm daily
Salt & Straw is the perfect stop after a long day of exploring the city or adventuring in the outdoors. This ice cream shop is Portland-born, and it now has multiple locations across the city.
The available flavors rotate, so there’s always something new to try. To give you a general idea, though, some of their permanent flavors are things like Oregon olive oil, honey lavender, pear & blue cheese, and strawberry honey balsamic with black pepper. Of course, you’ll find some classic flavors, too. But try something a little adventurous if you’re up for it!
Kalesa Coffee
A small, Filipino coffee shop with seriously amazing specialty lattes and drinks.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 8 am – 2 pm Tue-Sat, Closed Sun & Mon
I dream about the lattes I had at Kalesa. The coffee itself is top-notch, but the classic and unique Filipino flavor combinations are what make their drinks special. I loved the coconut cold brew with ube whip, and the coconut pandan cream soda was delicious, too.
The shop is a little out of the way from main Portland attractions, but I promise you it’s worth it. And the staff is so welcoming.
Family Attractions in Portland
Oregon Zoo
Snap a photo of your favorite wildlife creature at Oregon’s largest zoo.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 226-1561 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 6 pm Daily | Entrance: $26 Adult, $21 Ages 2-11, Free Under 2
The Oregon Zoo is one of the best places in Portland to visit with kids. The whole family is sure to be satisfied with all the wild animal kingdom attractions here. Plus, the Oregon Zoo is the biggest and most affordable zoo in Oregon.
One of the best Oregon zoo events is ZooBrew, which is held each June. Enjoy flavors from 40 of the best breweries and cideries in Portland as well as live music, zookeeper chats, and lawn games. There’s something for everyone at ZooBrew, even family members under 21!
Pittock Mansion
Hike through the thick forest to reach the doorstep of one of Portland’s most iconic historic houses.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 823-3623 | Website | Hours: 10 am-5 pm Wed-Mon, 12 pm-5 pm Tue | Entrance: $16 Adults, $14 Seniors 65+, $12 Ages 6-18, Free Under 6
Washington Park invites visitors to view Pittock Mansion, a historic house museum. Learn about Portland’s frontier, pioneer, and Native past in the interpretive museum. You can also see how the area transformed to fit modernity.
Most visitors drive through Washington Park right to the Pittock Mansion gate. But my favorite way to experience Pittock Mansion is via the 5-mile Macleay Park trail.
Oregon Maritime Museum
Learn more about the Pacific Ocean at this seaside museum.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 224-7724 | Website | Hours: 11 am-4 pm Wed, Fri, & Sat | Entrance: $10 Adults, $7 Seniors 62+, $5 Students with ID
Learn all about marine life at the Oregon Maritime Museum. This museum on the river showcases the last operating and steam-powered sternwheel tug in the U.S.
The Oregon Maritime Museum offers docent-led tours of the pit house and engine room, all the while telling stories of the local rivers. This unique museum on the water is one of the best places to visit for people interested in deep marine life.
Japanese American Historical Plaza
Educate yourself on the lived experiences of Japanese immigrants in Portland and beyond.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 224-1458 | Website | Hours: 5 am-12 am Daily | Entrance: Free
Experience a slice of culture at the cherry blossom-lined Japanese American Historical Plaza. The plaza tells the story of the hardships suffered by Japanese immigrants in Portland, as well as their incarceration throughout the World War II era.
Poems inscribed on stones pay homage to the bravery of those who served in the U.S. armed forces and other Japanese migratory experiences.
Mill Ends Park
Photograph one of the smallest parks in the world.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 823-7529 | Website | Hours: 5 am-12 am Daily | Entrance: Free
Mill Ends Park is a tiny urban park that consists of only one tree. This tree was dubbed the smallest tree in the world in the 1970s Guinness Book of Records. I recommend checking out Mill Ends Park for its iconic status as a microscopic, 2-foot-wide park alone.
Powell Butte Loop Trail
See into Washington on this high volcanic loop trail.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 5 am-10 pm Daily | Entrance: Free
The Powell Butte is a million-year-old volcano with prime views of Portland. This trail extends all the way to the Washington Cascade Mountains of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, and Mount St. Helens.
This moderate 5.9-mile hike is a perfect thing to do in Portland to mix up an otherwise city-centric trip. Hike through tall, scenic grasslands and around wooded forest canopies on this lesser-known trail. Powell Butte Loop Trail is a true escape from reality.
📚 Related Reading: Come prepared for hiking trails and more by reading our Oregon packing list. And get your free printable Oregon packing list here!
Seasonal Things to Do in Portland
Portland Old Time Music Gathering
Listen to Portland’s finest grassroots music at this annual Appalachian festival.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Seasonal, January | Entrance: $25 Per Day
The Portland Old Time Music Gathering is a festival that hosts multiple nights of old-timey music that spans different locations and welcomes all-night tunes. All of which originate from traditional Appalachian-style string bands.
The Portland Old Time Music Gathering kicked off its last festival with a Cajun/Honky Tonk dance night and held an open jam. This annual music festival sure is a grassroots knee-slappin’ hoot. It takes place every January.
UFO Festival
Don’t be afraid to get weird at this otherworldly event, complete with extraterrestrial experts and alien attire.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Seasonal, May | Entrance: $25 Per Talk
The McMenamin’s UFO Festival is one of the weirdest annual festivals in Portland. It certainly helps “keep Portland weird.”
What began as a way to honor the famous 1950 UFO Trent sighting has since flourished into an extraterrestrial workshop. McMenamin’s UFO Festival is complete with expert speakers, plenty of out-of-this-world costumes, and more.
Filmed by Bike Film Festival
Watch some of the most international & independent cycling films from around the world at this Hollywood Theatre event.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 383-1306 | Website | Hours: Seasonal, May 18-21 | Entrance: $15 Per Event
Filmed by Bike Film Festival is a touring film festival that features the world’s best bike movies. Filmed by Bike Film Festival takes place each May in Portland at the historic Hollywood Theatre.
Fun, bike-centered events take place throughout the busy film festival weekend. This includes an organized bike ride, afterparties, and meet and greets with the filmmakers.
Filmed by Bike Film Festival is the perfect event to attend in Portland if you’re a bike fanatic and are visiting for an extended period of time. It’s also a great way to meet the fellow cycling community in Portland and establish new riding partners.
Portland Farmhouse & Wild Ale Festival
Sip on some of America’s best brews at this huge natural ale fest.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Seasonal, May | Entrance: $35, General Admission
Portland Farmhouse & Wild Ale Festival is the region’s biggest showcase of uniquely charismatic brews from American breweries.
The affordable $35 fee gets ticketed guests glassware and ten drink tickets. VIP tickets allow visitors an hour earlier entry into the event as well as 5 extra drink tickets. The Portland Farmhouse & Wild Ale Festival is the best special event for beer connoisseurs.
Portland’s World Naked Bike Ride
Unleash your wild side and ride through the streets of Portland with other locals in their birthday suits.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Seasonal, Summer | Entrance: Free
Bare your birthday suit at Portland’s unusual World Naked Bike Ride event. This may sound far out to out-of-towners, but it is revered as a Portland local legend. Wear as much or as little as you want at this secret location ride. The locals don’t judge!
Portland’s World Naked Bike Ride takes place every summer. Check the website for the latest updates. It is completely free and welcoming to persons of all income levels, but donations are encouraged.
Fall Mushroom Show
Get to know more about Portland fungi.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Seasonal, October | Entrance: $10, General Admission
The ever-growing mushroom community in Portland gets together once a year to celebrate their interests at the Fall Mushroom Show.
Here, you can learn all there is to know about wild Oregon mushrooms. I recommend purchasing a few of your favorite mushrooms and engaging in mycological festivities at this fall event.
Oregon Renaissance Faire
Delight in Renaissance performances, cuisine, and unique shows at this old-time event.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Seasonal, June 10 am-7 pm | Entrance: $25.95 General Admission
Hear ye, hear ye! The Oregon Renaissance Faire is an annual June event that takes place outside of Portland. This festival is not to be missed if you’re in town.
The Oregon Renaissance Faire in Canby hosts a conglomerate of community members who appreciate the older things in life. The Renaissance Faire is complete with artisans, merchants, entertainers, and performers. There are over 150 performers and fun costume contests as well.
The Oregon Renaissance Faire typically lasts three weekends in June. Put on your best Renaissance dress and meet some like-minded lads!
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Thanks for reading! While you’re in the area, be sure to also check out the best things to do in Oregon. Many are only a short day trip from Portland.
Lea Rose Allbaugh contributed to this post.
