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.
Summer in Portland
Summer is coming, and so are some of the biggest events of the season.
Portland Pride
Every June, the Portland Pride Festival & Parade makes a name for itself — and LGBTQ+ community members — all over town.
Fourth of July Events
There’s nothing more American than fun, family and, of course, fireworks. Pack all of that into one weekend with these July 4 events.
Portland’s Waterfront Blues Festival
Every Fourth of July weekend, the Waterfront Blues Festival takes over downtown Portland’s Waterfront Park.
The Top 10 Things to Do in Portland
Traveler favorites and quintessentially Portland attractions
Questions About Things to Do in Portland
What’s open in Portland right now?
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 browse events by month. Make sure your travel plan includes a tour. While learning about Portland history, coffee or beer culture, etc., the list of places you’ll want to visit will grow rapidly. The tour guide and other travelers on your tour can be a great source of recommendations.
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.
Upcoming Events in Portland
No matter when you visit, there's always something fun to see and do in Portland.
Asian Heritage Month
Celebrate Asian Heritage Month this May with exciting cultural performances and activities at Lan Su…
Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Mexican Modernism
Internationally beloved artists Frida Kahlo (1907–1954) and Diego Rivera (1886–1957) played a cr…
Oregon Wine Month
You can celebrate Willamette Valley wine all year round, but especially during Oregon Wine Month, wh…
Vanport Mosaic Festival
2022 marks the 80th anniversary of the building of Vanport, once Oregon’s second-largest city, and…
Tax-Free Shopping
Enjoy big-box and indie shopping in the Rose City — all without any sales tax.
Portland's Gorgeous Gardens
The City of Roses is named so for a reason, offering dozens of beautiful public gardens.
Peninsula Park & Rose Garden
Discover outdoor fun for the whole family — plus thousands of blooms — at Oregon’s oldest public rose garden.
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.
Portland International Rose Test Garden
The oldest official continuously operated public rose test garden in the United States, the Portland International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park features more than 10,000 roses, great views of the skyline and the Cascades.
Food Cart Scene
Portland is home to hundreds of food carts and food cart pods, including these five favorites.
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 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
Take your happy hour to the next level with one of these classic Rose City cocktails, from a sophisticated Negroni to a group-sized Tiki bowl.
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 a planetarium, a giant-screen theater, a retired navy submarine, traveling exhibits and “After Dark” events, OMSI has lures for 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.