$Fourth-timer\'s guide to Portland$

Fourth Timer’s Guide to Portland

There are endless ways to find fun in Portland, even after you’ve hit up the city’s major landmarks.

Updated Nov. 24, 2024 2 min read

You won’t find a Fisherman’s Wharf or a Space Needle in Portland — our tourist attractions are quintessential local spots beloved by residents and visitors alike. (See our first-time and attractions page for some favorites.) By your fourth trip, you’ve probably checked biggies like Powell’s and the Portland Japanese Garden off your list, so it’s time to dig deeper. Visiting these lesser-known treasures will help you become a Portland pro.

Freakybuttrue Pecularium

Keeping Portland weird since 1967, this Northwest Portland destination isn’t your typical curiosity shop — it’s one of Portland’s many fun and weird museums. The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium is packed with creepy but fun features, including a bigfoot display, Al Capone’s safe, an alien autopsy table and an exhibit on spontaneous combustion.

A man posing in a photo display appearing to discected from an alien at the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium — A truly odd photo opportunity at the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium.

Glowing Greens

Keep your eyes peeled for a pirate skeleton on Southwest Taylor Street because otherwise, Glowing Greens could be easy to miss. Hidden behind a discreet door and down two flights of stairs, you’ll discover a glow-in-the-dark, pirate-themed indoor miniature golf course, perfect for a rainy day (or night).

Oregon Center for Contemporary Art

Already seen the epic exhibitions at Portland Art Museum? It’s time to head to Oregon Contemporary, a can’t-miss contemporary art center in North Portland, right on the MAX Yellow Line. The 12,000-square foot space is home to performing arts programs, community events, four artist studios and an artistic open space that showcases some of the best contemporary artists.

Visual Arts in Portland

View paintings, sculptures and other visual art in a wide range of galleries, public spaces and unexpected venues.

More Art To Check Out

Ken’s Artisan Pizza

Recently crowned the second-best pizza in the world, go experience what the locals have known for 16 years; Ken’s Artisan Pizza is world-class. The woodfired pizzeria, known for its long-fermented dough and hand-stretched mozzarella, is located in Southeast Portland, walking distance to the Laurelhurst Theater (a perfect date night). Try the Arrabbiata topped with arugula if you don’t mind a little heat.

a pizza topped with red sauce, cheese and meat atop a wooden table — Ken’s Artisan Pizza chars its wood-fired crust to perfection.

Freeland Spirits

Freeland Spirits is one of the few women-owned and run distilleries in history. But that’s not all that sets them apart; their hand-crafted, small batched spirits made in traditional copper stills consistently top industry publications’ lists. Visit their Northwest Portland tasting room for small bites, tasting flights, and excellent cocktails.

a bartender behind the bar pouring drinks from a blue bottle — A bartender prepares gin samples in Freeland Spirits’ tasting room.

Mount Tabor Park

Experience one of the best views of the city from the top of a dormant volcanic cinder cone. Yes, Portland has a volcano. Mount Tabor Park has reservoirs, hiking trails, a dog park, in addition to breathtaking views. Depending on when you go, you might catch a free piano recital or an adult soapbox derby. No matter the season, if the skies are clear, you’re guaranteed a spectacular sunset.