Things to Do in Portland
Like the city itself, Portland's attractions are a little unexpected and always inspiring.
It’s safe to say a visitor will never experience the same Portland twice. The city’s top attractions are constantly evolving, creating exciting pop-ups, debuting new works and hosting events that attract both locals and visitors alike. Read on for our favorite things to do, see and experience in Portland, then check out our events calendar to help you plan your trip.
Questions About Things to Do in Portland
What are the must-see attractions in Portland?
How can I spend three days in Portland?
You can also let fate be your guide. Check out our events page to find out what’s going on in Portland when you’re in town or if you’re still planning your trip you can browse events by month. If you want someone else to show you around, make sure your travel plans include a walking tour or biking tour and learn about Portland history, coffee or beer.
What are the best things to eat and drink in Portland?
As for beverages, Portland is well known for its coffee, but there are also teahouses scattered throughout the city. Most people know Portland’s reputation for craft beer but may not know Oregon is one of the top wine-producing states. There’s also a growing craft distillery scene.
I’m planning my first trip to Portland, what should I do?
Spring in Portland
Portland's winter rains usher in a season of blooms and springtime events.
Portland Rose Festival
Portland Rose Festival features multiple parades, waterfront carnival rides, concerts, races, fireworks and plenty of roses.
Mother’s Day Events in Portland
Myriad Mother's Day events in Portland make it easy (and fun!) to celebrate moms, grandmas and all of the other important women in your life.
UFO Festival in McMinnville
Every May, thousands of visitors flock to the city’s famous UFO Festival, featuring four days of parades, costume contests and expert speakers.
The Top 10 Things to Do in Portland
Traveler favorites and quintessentially Portland attractions
Upcoming Events in Portland
No matter when you visit, there's always something fun to see and do in Portland.
Haunted Shanghai Tunnel Tour
Old Town Pizza & Brewing is built directly above Portland's infamous Shanghai tunnels. The s…
Nano Beer Fest
Starting back in 2008, the Nano Beer Fest began at Max's Fanno Creek where the owners were looki…
Oregon Wine Month
You can celebrate Willamette Valley wine all year round, but especially during Oregon Wine Month, wh…
Kodomo no Hi, Children's Day
Kodomo no Hi, also called Children’s Day, is commemorated each year in Japan in early May …
Tax-Free Shopping
Enjoy big-box and indie shopping in the Rose City — all without any sales tax.
Portland's Gorgeous Gardens
Bask in an abundance of color during the change of seasons.
Leach Botanical Garden
Walk through verdant treetops and breathe in the scent of a four-season pollinator garden in this urban oasis in SE Portland.
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Round out your floral explorations of the Rose City with a visit to Southeast Portland’s lush Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. The park boasts more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, with blooms from late February -June.
The Grotto
This serene woodland sanctuary in Northeast Portland features 62 acres (25 hectares) of lush botanical gardens. No matter what time of year you visit, the Grotto offers calm, peace and introspection, transcending boundaries.
Date Night Ideas
Plan a magical evening with your special someone, from romantic restaurants to booze-free fun.
Date Night Ideas in Portland
Planning a romantic evening in Portland? We have date night ideas, activities and adventures for couples who love sports, the arts, the outdoors and more.
Restaurants With a View
Whether atop the city's tallest buildings or nestled next to a river, these Portland restaurants with a view offer a feast for the eyes (as well as the appetite).
Portland’s Signature Cocktails
Portland is home to expert mixologists and one of America’s most vibrant craft cocktail scenes — sip your way through the city’s signature drinks.
Food Cart Scene
Portland is home to hundreds of food carts and food cart pods, including these five favorites.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions
Enjoy hands-on science at OMSI, elephants at the zoo, indoor activities for kids and more.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
With interactive science labs, a planetarium, a giant-screen theater, a retired navy submarine, traveling exhibits and "After Dark" events, OMSI lures all ages.
Oregon Zoo
Located near downtown Portland in Washington Park, the Oregon Zoo is home to more than 2,600 animals.
Kid-Friendly Regional Attractions
Trips outside the city promise all-ages entertainment. Here are four must-see attractions within two hours of downtown Portland.