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 here, and so are some of the biggest events of the year.
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 Big Float
Every summer since 2011, thousands of people swim and float in the Willamette River for the annual Big Float event.
The Top 10 Things to Do in Portland
Traveler favorites and quintessentially Portland attractions
Questions About Things to Do in Portland
What is 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 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.
Upcoming Events in Portland
No matter when you visit, there's always something fun to see and do in Portland.
Pedalpalooza
Portland’s cycling culture peaks during summer’s multi-week Pedalpalooza, featuring 200+ local-led, …
Piano Push Play
Piano Push Play invites local artists to transform old, donated pianos into whimsical works of art w…
Portland Burger Week
The Portland Mercury’s Burger Week returns every August with dozens of restaurants, bars and brewh…
William Byrd Festival
Every August, some of Oregon’s finest choral singers convene to perform the stirring music of Engl…
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 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.