20 Amazing Things To Do In Portland, Oregon

1. Discover Tranquility at the Portland Japanese Garden

If you're looking for peace amidst the city, head to the Portland Japanese Garden in Washington Park. It's considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. They offer daily guided tours free with admission, so take advantage of that to gain deeper insight into the symbolism behind every stone and stream.

Admission starts at $22.50 for adults, but they also provide discounts for seniors and students.

2. Lose Yourself in Powell's City of Books

Book lovers, this one's a must. Powell’s City of Books is the world’s largest independent bookstore, and it's easy to spend hours wandering through the labyrinth of over a million titles. They host special events and seasonal sales—like the Friends and Family Sale—where you can score 20% off most purchases. Pro tip: grab a store map when you enter or risk getting (happily) lost.

3. Feast at Pine Street Market

Craving a food adventure? Pine Street Market is Portland’s premier food hall. They house a selection of top-tier vendors offering ramen, bao buns, donuts, and craft drinks. Shanghai’s Best is a favorite for handmade dumplings, while Lil’ Funky Donuts satisfies any sweet tooth.

This is a great place to sample gourmet bites without spending a fortune.

4. Private Back-Country Distillery, Brewery, Or Pub Tour

The Private Back-Country Distillery, Brewery, or Pub Tour refers to an exclusive journey whereby tourists get to tour the countryside in a bid to see producers of special alcoholic products.

During the trip, you are likely to visit a local distillery, brewery, and tavern, to take a tour and taste the art of brewing and distilling. Hence, this makes it one of the most thrilling things to do.

5. Forest Park Hiking Tour To Pittock Mansion

The Forest Park Hiking Tour to Pittock Mansion boasts a rewarding trek through one of the most spacious urban parks in the USA covering over 5200 acres.

Each Park covers in addition 70 miles of unspoiled, tree-lined, beautiful terrain as one progresses to the historic Pittock Mansion. Therefore, the hike combines nature's aesthetics with other picturesque sites of Portland including its history and skyline.

6. Mt Hood Loop Tour Including Multnomah Falls

The tour features panoramic views of Columbia River Gorge, the breathtaking and towering Mount Hood, and the beautiful Multnomah Falls which is regarded as one of the chief waterfalls of the North West region.

Moreover, you can relish beautiful scenic views, picturesque small towns, and a combination of natural surroundings and history in the process.

7. Grilling Techniques Class In Portland Oregon

If you wish to learn about grilling, the best course for you is the Grilling Techniques Class in Portland, Oregon. It trains people in seasoning techniques, marinating procedures, and preparation and cooking methods applicable to different types of meat and vegetables.

There's never a dull moment in this fabulous session, as gourmet chefs guide your every move. As a result, the session concludes with a sumptuous meal shared among fellow grilling enthusiasts.

8. Private Tour At The Hood-Columbia Loop: Timberline, Orchards, And Waterfalls

Here, you will experience the serenity of green orchards, the beauty of cascading falls, and a great viewpoint of the gorge of the Columbia River. Ending the exploratory sessions is a few hours off the dense and beautiful nature forests for plant lovers.

This tour is ideal for nature-loving people who enjoy the wide range of beauty that the region has in terms of plants and views.

9. Half-Day Columbia River Gorge And Waterfall Hiking Tour

The Half-Day Hiking Tour of Columbia River Gorge and Waterfalls is truly an incredible quest through one of the most spectacular regions in Oregon. Venture onto the green trails and view amazing stunning waterfalls, including the famous Multnomah Falls.

An expert will show you the beautiful multilevel history and ecology of this area. Hiking lovers and nature lovers in general, as well as travelers seeking great experience outdoors, especially in the Pacific Northwest, are most especially welcome here.

10. 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise On Willamette River

The Willamette River Dinner Cruise is a total of approximately 2.5 hours in duration and offers a wonderful escape from the annoying crowds, particularly after a sightseeing tour or a long week at work.

Here, you can sample fantastic dishes as you view exquisite landscapes of the river and the city at sunset. With good meals and a good appearance, this is a fun-filled activity and ideal for everyone.

11. Take in the Beauty of Lan Su Chinese Garden

Step into an urban oasis inspired by classical Chinese design. Lan Su Chinese Garden blends architecture, water features, and plant life into a peaceful retreat. They’ve recently updated their pricing—EBT cardholders now pay just $5—so it's accessible for more people.

Go early in the day for fewer crowds and more time to reflect.

12. Walk Across the Tilikum Crossing Bridge

For a stunning view of the city, take a walk or bike ride across Tilikum Crossing.

This bridge is car-free, reserved for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit. It’s an ideal way to take in Portland’s skyline without the noise of traffic. Try going at sunset for some of the best photo ops in the city.

13. Beginner's Glass Blowing Lessons In Portland, Oregon

Have you given it a thought that sooner or later, you may want to try glassblowing yourself? In Portland, Oregon the introductory sessions on glass blowing revolve around borosilicate glass.

This is achieved by placing the glass on a table-mounted torch to melt and shape the glass. This is a form of flameworking that is rarer than normal glass blowing but provides the customers with an engaging artistic experience and amazing glass products.

14. Airplane Flight Tour Over Portland, Oregon

Get ready for an airplane flight tour and enjoy the amazing views of Portland, Oregon, and more. Take a lift over the sight of historical buildings, verdant parks, and the beautiful Willamette River.

This viewpoint location is perfect for taking pictures of the city skyline as well as of Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge. Ideal for picture takers and even those who love the outdoors, it’s a perfect way of discerning the beauty of the nature surrounding Portland.

15. Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Don’t you think that it is rather exciting to have a particular time allocated in this way? The Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise is one fun way to relax and enjoy beautiful views of the waterfront.

When cruising along such scenic routes, which often have either music or a narration of the sights being viewed, the guests are pleasantly served with food and drinks. This is how one gets to see places and at the same time end up enjoying resting, which is right for residents as well as visitors.

16. All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour

The All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour is an unmissable experience for gourmets who wish to explore the cultural culinary cuisine of the place.

In a small group, you and your expert guide will taste delicious samples from local restaurants in Portland. This will enhance the whole culinary experience of the city as well as get to know why certain types of dishes are hosted.

17. Kooza By Cirque du Soleil: Under The Big Top In Portland, Oregon

Kooza, the Cirque du Soleil circus play, is a thrilling performance currently taking place in Portland, Oregon beneath the Big Top. The show features elements of acrobatics, clowning, and live musicians while showing a plot about the journey of a happy drifter into a world full of opportunities.

Kooza features visually enthralling performance coupled with heart-stopping acts. Therefore, it is suitable for everyone, making it an event that you definitely shouldn't miss.

18. Guided Walking Tour Of Downtown Portland, Oregon

The Downtown Portland Guided Walking Tour provides an enjoyable experience of the city's cultural diversity, historical depth, and architectural beauty.

In the company of experienced and friendly local guides, the people can meander around legendary districts and important sites of the city while learning the stories that only Portland has.

Not only do such active excursions explain the art, food, and parks within the city but are also great to start with the beauty of Portland.

19. Eastbank Esplanade Sunset Or Night Photography Walk

Join a small group tour on the Eastbank Esplanade for a Sunset or Night Photography Walk. This tour is designed to improve your photography skills while you enjoy stunning views of Portland.

With their guidance, you'll explore the Eastbank Promenade along the Willamette River. They will help you with camera composition by suggesting the best spots to capture photos and showing you how to use your camera for the best results.

20. Macabre Ghost History Of Portland, Oregon Walking Tour

Embark on the Macabre Ghost History Walk, a thrilling 1.5-mile journey through the city's haunting past. This tour offers everything from tales of flame-licked corpses to drowned burials, blending local tribal mythology with chilling accounts from later settlers.

You'll enjoy the exciting narratives and a few eerie locations, including the old burial ground of Portland residents, where many untold stories linger in the shadows. It's a captivating experience for ghost lovers and history enthusiasts.