10 Best Places to Visit in Portland Oregon
Hi there, I’m Emily and I’m excited to share with you my personal favorite places to visit in Portland, Oregon. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring this city and have compiled a list of the top 10 places that you simply cannot miss during your trip. From stunning natural beauty to vibrant city life, Portland has something for everyone.
Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Portland
- 1. Powell’s City of Books
- 2. International Rose Test Garden
- 3. Pittock Mansion
- 4. Lan Su Chinese Garden
- 5. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
- 6. Forest Park
- 7. Pioneer Courthouse Square
- 8. Portland Art Museum
- 9. Alberta Arts District
- 10. Voodoo Doughnut
Now that you know the top places to visit in Portland, let’s dive into why each of these spots is so special.
Powell’s City of Books
If you’re a book lover like me, you can’t miss Powell’s City of Books. This massive bookstore takes up an entire city block and has over a million books for sale. I spent hours perusing the shelves and discovering new reads. Pro-tip: grab a cup of coffee from the in-store cafe and get lost in the stacks.
International Rose Test Garden
Portland is known as the City of Roses and for good reason. The International Rose Test Garden is home to over 10,000 rose bushes and is a must-visit for any flower enthusiast. The views of the city from the garden are also breathtaking.
Pittock Mansion
The Pittock Mansion is a historic home that is now open to the public for tours. The mansion was built in 1914 and has incredible views of the city. I loved learning about the history of the mansion and the Pittock family.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
The Lan Su Chinese Garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Portland. The garden was built to promote Chinese culture and features beautiful architecture, plants, and water features. I loved exploring the different areas of the garden and learning about Chinese history.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a fun and educational spot for all ages. The museum has interactive exhibits on everything from natural disasters to space travel. I especially enjoyed the planetarium show.
Forest Park
Forest Park is the largest urban forest in the United States and is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park has over 80 miles of trails and is home to a variety of wildlife. I loved hiking through the forest and feeling like I was miles away from the city.
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Courthouse Square is known as the living room of Portland and is a great spot to people watch. The square has events year-round and is a hub of activity in the city. I loved sitting on the steps and watching the world go by.
Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum has a wide variety of art on display, from contemporary to classic. The museum also has a beautiful sculpture garden that is worth checking out. I loved seeing the different exhibits and learning about the history of art in Portland.
Alberta Arts District
The Alberta Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood that is home to a variety of galleries, restaurants, and shops. I loved walking down Alberta Street and checking out the street art and unique shops. Pro-tip: visit on the last Thursday of the month for the Last Thursday art walk.
Voodoo Doughnut
No trip to Portland is complete without a visit to Voodoo Doughnut. This iconic doughnut shop has a huge variety of flavors, including their famous Voodoo Doll doughnut. I loved trying all of the different flavors and admiring the quirky decor.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Portland?
The best time to visit Portland is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds.
What is the food scene like in Portland?
Portland is known for its incredible food scene, with everything from food carts to fine dining. Some must-try dishes include Portland-style pizza, craft beer, and of course, doughnuts.
What are some other attractions in Portland?
Other attractions in Portland include the Portland Japanese Garden, the Oregon Zoo, and the Columbia River Gorge.
Is Portland a bike-friendly city?
Yes, Portland is an incredibly bike-friendly city. There are over 350 miles of bike lanes and paths throughout the city, making it easy to get around on two wheels.
There you have it, my top 10 must-visit places in Portland, Oregon. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip and discover all that this amazing city has to offer. Happy exploring!