10 Best Things to Do in Portland Oregon
As a native of Portland, Oregon, I have spent many years exploring this unique and vibrant city. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there is always something new to discover in Portland. In this article, I will share with you the top 10 things to do in Portland, based on my personal experiences and recommendations.
Main Curiosities, Top Statistics, Facts, and Interesting Information
- Portland is known as the City of Roses due to its ideal climate for growing roses.
- The city is home to over 70 breweries, making it the craft beer capital of the world.
- Portland is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the US, with over 350 miles of bike lanes and paths.
- The city is also known for its foodie culture, with over 600 food carts serving everything from Thai food to vegan donuts.
- Portland is surrounded by natural beauty, with Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Oregon Coast all within a few hours’ drive.
The Top 10 Things to Do in Portland
Explore Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s City of Books is a must-visit for any book lover. This iconic bookstore spans an entire city block and has over a million books in stock. You can easily spend hours browsing the shelves and discovering new titles. I prefer to go on a rainy day and cozy up in one of the many reading nooks with a cup of coffee.
Visit the Portland Japanese Garden
The Portland Japanese Garden is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the city. The garden features five distinct styles of Japanese gardens and is meticulously maintained. I did this on a sunny day and felt like I was transported to Japan. Make sure to visit the tea house for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Take a Hike in Forest Park
Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the US, with over 80 miles of hiking trails. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and offers stunning views of the city. I prefer to hike the Wildwood Trail, which is 30 miles long and takes you through some of the park’s most beautiful areas.
Visit the Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum is home to over 42,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. The museum has an impressive collection of Native American art and is one of the few museums in the US to have a dedicated contemporary Native American art gallery. I did this on a rainy day and was blown away by the quality and variety of the art.
Explore the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, or OMSI, is a fun and educational destination for all ages. The museum has interactive exhibits on a variety of topics, including space exploration, renewable energy, and the human body. I did this with my kids on a weekend and they loved the hands-on exhibits and planetarium show.
Take a Stroll Through the International Rose Test Garden
The International Rose Test Garden is located in Washington Park and is home to over 10,000 roses. The garden is free to visit and is a beautiful spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. I did this on a sunny day and was amazed by the colors and fragrances of the roses.
Shop at the Portland Saturday Market
The Portland Saturday Market is the largest arts and crafts market in the US, with over 250 vendors selling handmade goods. The market is open every Saturday and Sunday from March to December and is a fun place to shop for unique souvenirs and gifts. I did this with friends and we ended up buying jewelry, ceramics, and artisanal food products.
Visit the Oregon Zoo
The Oregon Zoo is home to over 2,500 animals from around the world. The zoo has a variety of exhibits, including an African savannah, a primate forest, and an elephant lands habitat. I did this with my family and we loved seeing the animals up close and learning about their habitats and behaviors.
Enjoy the Food and Drink Scene
Portland is known for its foodie culture and craft beer scene. There are endless options for restaurants, cafes, and bars, ranging from casual food carts to fine dining establishments. I prefer to explore different neighborhoods and try new places, but some of my favorites include Pok Pok for Thai food, Salt & Straw for ice cream, and Deschutes Brewery for beer.
Take a Day Trip
Portland is surrounded by natural beauty and there are many day trip options within a few hours’ drive. Some popular destinations include Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Oregon Coast. I did this with friends and we rented a car and drove to Multnomah Falls, a stunning waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Portland?
- Summer is the most popular time to visit Portland, but the city is beautiful year-round. Spring and fall are great times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy mild weather.
- What is the public transportation like in Portland?
- Portland has a great public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and streetcars. The city also has a bike share program and many bike lanes and paths.
- What are some other attractions in Portland?
- Other popular attractions in Portland include the Portland Rose Festival, the Oregon Historical Society Museum, and the Pittock Mansion.
- What are some kid-friendly activities in Portland?
- In addition to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and the Oregon Zoo, other kid-friendly activities in Portland include the Children’s Museum, the World Forestry Center, and Oaks Amusement Park.