28 Best Things to Do in Portland: A Local's Guide

Discover a natural paradise at the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area just outside Portland. This breathtaking natural wonder stretches more than 80 miles and offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, fishing and waterfall hunting. Don't miss the famous Multnomah Falls - the second highest waterfall open year-round in the country. If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, hike to Punchbowl Falls and take a dip in the refreshing waters. The nearby town of Hood River is also worth a visit and offers some of the best windsurfing in the world.

There's nothing like the refreshing and rejuvenating feeling of being surrounded by the beauty of nature, and that's exactly what you can experience when you visit Mt. Hood National Forest in Portland. Located just a short drive from the city, it offers breathtaking views of majestic Mount Hood, lush greenery and the soothing sound of flowing streams. Visitors can indulge in a number of activities here, including hiking, camping, fishing and skiing. Don't forget to visit Trillium Lake, a popular spot for paddling, or the stunning Tamanawas Falls. So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

Looking for a quiet place to get away from the city? Then Washington Park is a must-see in Portland. You'll love the lush gardens, walking trails, and Japanese garden. The Arboretum offers breathtaking views of the city, and the Oregon Zoo is just a stone's throw away. If you're feeling adventurous, grab a bite to eat at the on-site food trucks and have a picnic in one of the many open spaces.

If you're curious about the amazing wildlife of the Pacific Northwest and beyond, a visit to the Oregon Zoo in Portland is a must. The zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from over 270 species, including some of your favorites like elephants, lions, bears and primates. You should also check out the Oregon Wild exhibit, which features native species like cougars, bald eagles and river otters.

The International Rose Test Garden in Portland is a must-see for any flower lover and lover of beauty. With over 10,000 rose bushes and 650 varieties, it will amaze you with its stunning blooms and pleasant fragrance. Founded in 1917, the garden is one of the oldest and largest rose trial gardens in the United States, making it a truly historic destination. Don't miss the opportunity to snap some Instagram-worthy photos in this idyllic setting. The nearby Japanese Garden is also worth a visit if you have time.

One of the most tranquil and impressive attractions in Portland is the Japanese Garden. The garden is filled with traditional Japanese architecture, tranquil water features, and carefully tended flora that perfectly captures the Zen of Japan. The garden spans 5.5 acres of rolling terrain and is an ideal place to walk and contemplate. Visitors enjoy views of Mount Hood, colorful koi swimming in the pond, and the peace that is in the air. Be sure to visit nearby Washington Park, home to other fascinating attractions such as the International Rose Test Garden and the Hoyt Arboretum.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park is one of the most beautiful and well-known parks in Portland and a must-see for tourists. With its majestic view of the Willamette River, this park provides a perfect place for a picnic or a day of relaxation. The park is also home to several fascinating public art installations, including the "Portlandia" statue, a symbol of the city's creative spirit. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also rent a paddle boat or kayak and explore the river. Just a short walk from the park is the famous Powell's City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, definitely worth a visit.

Book lovers take note! Powell's City of Books in Portland should be at the top of your must-visit list. This iconic bookstore takes up an entire city block and has more than a million books! You could spend hours browsing the shelves and discovering new reads. The knowledgeable staff can even help you find that hard-to-find book you've been looking for. Don't forget to visit the Rare Book Room, where you can catch a glimpse of rare books and collectibles.

Calling all nature lovers! If you want to get away from city life, Forest Park in Portland is the perfect destination for you. This park is the largest forested natural area within the city limits of the United States, spanning over 5,200 acres. Enjoy a quiet hike on one of the many trails, including the Wildwood Trail, which stretches for 30 miles. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer and coyotes.

The Pittock Mansion in Portland is a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. This stunning 1914 mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Portland's high society in the early 20th century. Twentieth Century. The mansion is impeccably preserved, and you'll feel transported back in time as you stroll through the ornate rooms and beautifully manicured gardens.

The Portland Art Museum is a must-see for art lovers! This stunning museum offers fantastic exhibitions featuring hundreds of famous works by American and international artists. You'll be impressed by the stunning collections of European paintings, Asian art, and contemporary works.

If you're looking for a breathtaking natural attraction, be sure to visit Multnomah Falls during your visit to Portland. This magnificent waterfall soars over 600 feet in the air and is the second highest waterfall open year-round in the United States. You can admire the waterfall from an observation deck or take a hike to the top for breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Located in East Portland, Mt. Tabor Park is a peaceful oasis for visitors seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. This picturesque park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and is great for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Take a scenic hike, enjoy a picnic on the lawn, or simply take in the tranquility of the surroundings. Don't miss the stunning reservoirs and the dog park, where dogs are allowed to run free. Plus, nearby Hawthorne Boulevard is a popular shopping and dining destination for visitors and locals alike.

Located about 30 minutes outside of Portland, the Vista House at Crown Point is a must-see for anyone visiting this beautiful region. Not only does the Vista House offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge, it is also a magnificent building with impressive architectural details.

If you're looking for a quiet break from the hustle and bustle of Portland city life, Lan Su Chinese Garden is a must-see. This beautiful garden embodies the essence of Chinese culture and architecture. The garden features a lake, waterfalls, pavilions, and an impressive tea house serving traditional Chinese tea. A special detail of the garden is that it is designed to highlight the Yin and Yang elements of Chinese philosophy. The garden is located near the popular Pearl District and the historic Old Town.

Do you have a curious mind? Then a visit to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland is a must! Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits on topics such as space, chemistry, and life sciences. Do your own science experiments, be impressed by the planetarium, and take a tour of a decommissioned submarine.

Looking for a peaceful oasis to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Then a visit to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden in Portland is a must! Located just a short drive from downtown, this sprawling garden is home to an impressive collection of rhododendrons and azaleas with over 2,500 different plant species. Take a leisurely stroll along the peaceful paths and admire the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers. Don't miss the tranquil lake where ducks, geese and other wildlife frolic.

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Powell Butte Nature Park is a must-see! Here you'll find over 600 acres of pristine natural beauty, including sprawling meadows, lush forests, and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

If you're looking for a quiet Portland retreat, look no further than The Grotto. This magnificent Catholic sanctuary is tucked away in a tranquil garden and offers breathtaking views of the city. Soak in the peaceful atmosphere and explore the network of gardens, pathways and chapels.

Are you looking for some peace and quiet amidst the hustle and bustle of the city? Then Peninsula Park in Portland is the perfect place for you! It is known for its exquisite gardens and stunning rose garden with over 9,000 colorful and fragrant blooms that attract visitors from all over the world. Take a leisurely stroll through the paths, which are adorned with numerous fountains, sculptures, and a beautiful Victorian-style bandstand. If you like swimming, Peninsula Park also has a public swimming pool that will fascinate you. Don't forget to visit the Piedmont Historic District adjacent to the park!

If you're looking for a relaxing and beautiful place to spend a day in Portland, be sure to visit the Vancouver Waterfront! With its breathtaking views of the Columbia River and the Cascade Mountains, this waterfront is the perfect place to take a walk, have a picnic, or just enjoy the view. You can also rent a kayak or paddle boat and explore the river from a different perspective. And if you get hungry or thirsty, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink. Don't miss out on this hidden gem! Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is also nearby and definitely worth a visit.

Looking for an outing in nature during your stay in Portland? Then Tualatin Hills Nature Park is the place for you! This beautiful 222-acre park is home to miles of gorgeous hiking trails, lush forests, and tranquil streams. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the wetlands and wildlife. If you are an avid bird watcher, be sure to pack your binoculars! You'll be amazed at the variety of feathered friends you'll discover. Want to explore even more? Nearby, you can also visit Commonwealth Lake Park, a tranquil lake for paddling and fishing.

Get ready for a trip down memory lane at the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum (WAAAM) in Portland! This hidden gem is a must-see for all classic car enthusiasts. With over 130 antique aircraft and automobiles on display, the WAAAM is a unique experience you won't find anywhere else. And the best part? Many of these vehicles are still in working order and occasionally taken for a spin or even shot up in the air. It's a great place for the whole family, with lots of interactive exhibits and knowledgeable volunteers who are happy to share inside stories and details about the vehicles. After visiting the WAAAM, be sure to also visit nearby Hood River for stunning views of Mount Hood and some delicious local food and drink.

If you're looking for a lush green oasis in the middle of the city, be sure to add the Hoyt Arboretum to your Portland itinerary. With over 12 miles of trails and 2,300 species of trees and plants, you can spend hours exploring this beautiful park. Be sure to visit the Redwood Deck for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Council Crest Park is a must-see for tourists in Portland, Oregon. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city from one of its highest points. From here you can see the entire downtown area, the Willamette River and even Mount Hood. It's the perfect spot for a picnic or a romantic sunset.

If you're looking for a cultural experience that will take you back to the days of the fur trade, Fort Vancouver Visitor Center in Portland is a must-see. Located across the Columbia River, this living history center offers an up-close look at the daily lives of 19th-century pioneers and traders. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the fort's blacksmith shop or walk through the lush gardens that surround the replica buildings. And while you're in the area, be sure to visit the nearby Pearson Air Museum to learn even more about the history.

Located in the beautiful city of Portland, Leach Botanical Garden is a gem waiting to be discovered. A stroll through this lush garden will transport you to a world of tranquility and natural beauty. Marvel at the variety of plants and flowers on display, including the famous trillium, which is native to Oregon. Be on the lookout for Heron Pond, a tranquil spot for bird watching. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can discover a hidden waterfall on the nature trail. Nearby, you can also visit Powell Butte, a popular destination for hiking and biking. A trip to Portland isn't complete without a visit to this tranquil oasis.

Imagine waking up to fresh mountain air, surrounded by towering trees and lush ferns, with miles of hiking trails and scenic vistas before you. That's what you can experience at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park. Located just an hour west of Portland, this park offers camping, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and even disc golf! Be sure to visit the Hilltop Day-use Area for panoramic views and the Vernonia Springs Trail for a peaceful walk through a cedar forest.