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
Celebrate Portland's blooms with these turn-of-the-season events.
Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
Colorful fields reminiscent of Holland burst with acres of tulips in full bloom at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in Woodburn.
Ticket to Dine
Portland’s “Ticket to Dine” offers patrons scratch-off tickets and a chance to win big prizes for 10 days in March.
Portland Saturday Market
Open every Saturday from March–December, Portland Saturday Market is the largest arts-and-crafts fair in the U.S.
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.
First Friday PDX
Located in Portland’s vibrant East Side Arts District, the First Friday Art Walk takes place on th…
Pedalpalooza
Portland’s cycling culture peaks during summer’s multi-week Pedalpalooza, featuring 200+ local-led, …
Portland Rose Festival
Portland Rose Festival features multiple parades, waterfront carnival rides, concerts, races, firewo…
Rose Festival CityFair
Considered the “hub” of the annual Portland Rose Festival, CityFair fills Waterfront Park with carni…
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.
Portland Japanese Garden
A haven of meticulously maintained, tranquil beauty, proclaimed one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden offers meandering streams, intimate walkways and an unsurpassed view of Mount Hood.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
This year-round wonder houses an authentic Ming Dynasty-style garden built by Suzhou artisans, offering a peaceful escape in Portland's historic Chinatown.
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 with all sorts of interests.
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.