On a Budget
There are so many things to do in the Rose City — all without overspending.
A trip to Portland doesn’t require emptying your wallet. Along with plenty of free-to-visit attractions and things to do and see throughout the city, Portland also hosts dozens of no-cost events and festivals throughout the year. Read on for our picks of budget-friendly fun in The Rose City, and check out our events calendar to discover upcoming free events.
Affordable Attractions
All of these great local attractions are all either free or offer affordable admission.
Year-Round Free & Nearly Free Fun
All year long, Portland's calendar is overflowing with affordable (and sometimes free!) events.
Free Attractions
These local destinations are all free to explore, making them a favorite stop on any budget itinerary.
Budget-Friendly Fun
Discovering new things and having fun in Portland doesn't take breaking the bank.
Bird-Watching in Portland
Catch sight of 200+ types of birds at the Portland area's dozens of prime bird watching destinations, including sanctuaries, refuges and urban parks.
Portland Karaoke Bars and Nights
Choose from private suites, pop-up events, tiki drinks and Chinese food as you select your ideal Portland karaoke venue from among the city’s top spots.
Free Live Music and Comedy in Portland
Discover a new favorite comic or musician at Portland's free concerts and comedy nights, scattered across the city and scheduled throughout the week.
Explore On a Budget
Delve into your passions without emptying your wallet.
Cheap Things to Do in Portland for Weekend Adventurers
Bring your walking shoes, water bottle and day-pack for an affordable urban adventure that highlights several things locals love about Portland.
Cheap/Affordable Things to Do in Portland for Arts Lovers
Experience Portland’s stellar music scene, ample museums and galleries, arts walks and festivals — all without busting your budget.
Cheap Things to Do in Portland for History Buffs
Experience Portland’s history without breaking your budget.
Free Upcoming Events

Earth Day Oregon in Forest Park
Forest Park Conservancy will be celebrating Earth Day Oregon this year on Saturday, April 24, and we’re inviting you to join! We will create small volunteer experiences for small groups spread throughout Forest Park. We will be planting native species and removing invasive species throughout Forest Park. Our goal is to provide fun, helpful ways…

Portland Saturday Market
Open every Saturday from March–December, Portland Saturday Market is the largest arts-and-crafts fair in the U.S.

Portland Flea + Food
The Portland Flea + Food is a monthly market held on the last Sunday of the month in Portland, Oregon. Every market features 80+ local artists, makers, and curators of the best vintage, handmade and locally-sourced goods in town.

St. Johns Bizarre & Parade
The 2021 St. Johns Bizarre has been canceled. The St. Johns Bizarre is a uniquely crafted celebration that kicks off the summer street fair season in Portland with music, kids’ activities and more. Held annually on the second Saturday in May, the Bizarre brings music, crafts and food to the crowds attending the St. Johns…

Fleet Week
In 2021, Rose Festival Fleet Week will be virtual, with ship tours and stories about members of the sea services shared virtually, on video. Please visit the event website for current information. Since the very beginning of the Rose Festival back in 1907, visiting ships and other fleet-related elements (like submarines) have been making their…

Portland Rose Society Annual Spring Rose Show
This annual rose show is the nation’s largest and long-running rose show, bringing more than 4,000 blooms to Lloyd Center in Northeast Portland. Explore a huge variety of roses, from the quarter-inch micro-minis to the 8 inch standard blooms.

GeekCraft Expo
GeekCraft Expo is a curated craft market specializing in handmade, “geek”-themed crafts of all kinds; clothing, accessories, toys, home decoration, furniture, art . . . if it’s geeky and made by hand, it can be found at a GeekCraft Expo. Cosplay is highly encouraged and admission is free (you just need to pre-register).
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