Molly Woodstock
Molly Woodstock has been writing and editing content for Travel Portland since 2014. Read More
Spend Spring Break in Portland
Plan your vacation with these fun ideas for families, friends, couples and solo travelers.
Molly Woodstock
Molly Woodstock has been writing and editing content for Travel Portland since 2014. Read More
Take the stress out of planning spring break in Portland with our list of awesome activities — for all kinds of vacationers. Have a great trip!
Spring Break in Portland for Families
Museums & More
If a few rain clouds threaten to darken your visit, never fear! There are plenty of indoor activities to keep your youngsters entertained. Families can spend the entire day exploring the Oregon Museum of Science & Industry (OMSI) or the Children’s Museum. Ample children’s theaters, indoor play areas and indoor activities ensure that you’ll never run out of warm, dry fun.
Tiptoe Through the Tulips
From the last week of March through April, head to the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn, south of Portland. The farm’s annual tulip fest features 40 acres (16 hectares) of gorgeous blooms, plus plenty of children’s activities. The kiddos will love the hay wagon rides, duck races, tire swings and cow train rides.
Whale Watching at the Oregon Coast
Oregon beaches may not fit certain spring break stereotypes (you’re unlikely to stumble into a wild college party or game of beach volleyball, for example). They are, however, perfect for peaceful whale watching. Every spring, as many as 20,000 gray whales pass through Oregon waters on their way from Mexico to Alaska. Spot them yourself with the help of our handy whale watching guide.
Family Friendly Activities
Museums & History
Delve into the roots of the Portland region and enjoy the art of yesterday and today.
Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast
Up to 20,000 gray whales migrate along Oregon's coast every winter and spring. Spot them from these four locations.
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.
Spring Break in Portland for Couples
Portland Dining Month
There’s never a bad time to dine in Portland, but March is undoubtedly the best month to try new restaurants. Every year, more than 100 local restaurants celebrate Portland Dining Month by offering delicious three-course menus for a mere $33. If your spring break is in April, you’ll still find great eats and deals — maybe you’re in the mood for tacos, ramen, sushi or comfort food?
Gardens Galore
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Portland Japanese Garden, one of the most authentic such gardens outside of Japan. The popular attraction recently expanded, adding classrooms, a library, a tea café and several additional gardens. Spring is also a beautiful time to visit Lan Su Chinese Garden, a tranquil, walled Suzhou-style garden in the heart of Old Town. And don’t miss the lush Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, where the flowers reach peak bloom in late April.
Things to Do for Two
Portland Dining Month
Every March, more than 100 Portland restaurants serve up three courses for just $33 nightly. There's no better time to visit this top culinary destination.
Winter Sports on Mount Hood
Just a 90-minute drive from downtown, Mount Hood sits right in the city’s backyard and makes for a heck of a winter playground.
Portland Japanese Garden
An authentic example of Japanese landscaping, the Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of tranquil beauty with an unsurpassed view of Mount Hood.
Hit the Slopes
It may surprise you to learn that March and April offer excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions near Portland. (In fact, Mt. Hood Skibowl keeps lifts running through May and Timberline is open all year-round.) A quick 90-minute drive will deliver you to Mount Hood for an exciting day of snow sports. Make it a full weekend with a stay at cozy Timberline Lodge.
Spring Break in Portland for Friends
Get Rolling
Itching to explore the city? Portland’s Biketown program makes it easier than ever to rent a bicycle. With 1,000 eight-speed bikes spread across 100 locations, you’re never far from a bright orange Biketown station. Once you’ve saddled up, map your route on the city’s 350 miles (563 km) of designated bikeways and start pedaling!
Eye on the Ball
Cheer on your March Madness picks at one of Portland’s many welcoming sports bars. Favorites include Century, which boasts stadium seating and vegan-friendly eats, the Blazers-inspired Spirit of 77.
Beervana
Speaking of bars, many of Portland’s 75-plus breweries offer limited-edition spring beer releases. (Try Cascade Brewing’s Kentucky peach sour and Portland Brewing’s “Raise the Roost” Belgian red ale.) Elevate your tasting experience by grabbing some friends and pedaling together from pub to pub on a BrewCycle.
Spring Break in Portland for Solo Travelers
Join the Timbers Army
You’re sure to make fast friends while cheering on the celebrated Portland Thorns and Timbers, the city’s championship-winning major league soccer clubs. At Providence Park, join the famous (and friendly) Timbers Army section to learn all the chants from the dedicated fans.
Shop Like a Local
March marks the return of the Portland Saturday Market, America’s largest weekly outdoor arts and crafts market. After perusing the 250 booths of handcrafted goods, take MAX light rail to the Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University. The massive open-air market overflows with fresh flowers, seasonal veggies and artisanal snacks.
Treat Yo’Self
There are plenty of ways to practice self-care in Portland, including treating yourself to a luxurious spa day. Indulge in a tranquil soak at Knot Springs, a body scrub at The Blooming Moon or a massage at KIVA.
Fun for One
Day Spas in Portland
Treat yourself to a luxurious head-to-toe treatment, massage, sauna or facial and feel your stress melt away at one of these eight Portland day spas.
Portland Soccer: Timbers and Thorns
With a fervent following, every Portland Timbers and Thorns match has a festive atmosphere that's enjoyable whether you're a soccer fan or not.
Dress Like a Portlander
To dress like a Portlander, be prepared to cycle to work, dodge raindrops and hoof it to a gallery opening in one versatile ensemble.