Choose from 38 Fun Things to Do in Portland
Portland Head Light
Practical Info
Vista House
Practical Info
Tate House Museum
- Tours start on the hour, with the last tour departing at 3pm.
- The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- There's a great gift shop selling books, candles, and mementos.
North Mississippi Avenue
Practical Info
Steel Bridge
Practical Info
Washington Park
Washington Park is a sprawling woodland in Southwest Portland, home to the Oregon Zoo, Portland Children’s Museum, and a series of gardens including the International Rose Test Garden, Hoyt Arboretum, and the Portland Japanese Garden. Cycling paths and walking trails wind throughout the park, providing a convenient nature escape.
The Basics
Stroll through Washington Park’s many trails, rent a bike to explore on two wheels, or bring a lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s picnic areas. Don’t miss the 64-acre (61.5-hectare) zoo, which houses more than 2,000 animals from North America, Asia, and Africa; the Children’s Museum with its 12-foot (3.7-meter) waterfall; and the Japanese Garden’s vine-draped arbors, curving bridges, and stone sculptures.
Washington Park is a top Portland attraction and therefore features on many city sightseeing tours, whether you want to explore on a full-day or half-day excursion. Small-group guided tours are available, and you can also see the park at your own pace on a hop-on hop-off trolley tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Washington Park is a must-see for nature lovers and families with kids.
- Remember to bring sun protection and comfortable walking shoes.
- Visitor facilities include restrooms, gift shops, picnic areas, and multiple information kiosks.
- Wheelchair-accessible parking is available.
How to Get There
Washington Park is located roughly 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from Downtown Portland. Parking for cars is limited, especially during warm, sunny weekends. The city’s MAX Light Rail is a good public transportation option, and from May through September a free shuttle service runs on a loop through the park. Biking and walking trails also connect the park to Downtown Portland.
When to Get There
You can visit Washington Park year-round, but Portland’s weather is typically best from June through August. To avoid crowds, opt for an early morning or late afternoon visit.
Other Attractions in Washington Park
Besides the famous rose garden, Japanese garden, and arboretum, Washington Park also houses the World Forestry Center with exhibits exploring forests in the Pacific Northwest and around the world, the Oregon Holocaust Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial, tennis courts, and an archery range.
Multnomah Falls
- Parts of the path that lead to the lower waterfall are wheelchair accessible; there is an elevator to the restaurant.
- A US Forest Service information center is open seven days a week.
- The Multnomah Falls Lodge at the base of the falls hosts a restaurant, snack bar, gift shop, and restrooms. Pick up hiking trail maps here.
- Make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a layer, whether you plan to hike or not; spray and mist can make surfaces slippery and cooler than nearby areas.
- Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
South Park Blocks
Practical Info
Pioneer Square
Practical Info
Wahkeena Falls
- Bring rain gear: Rain is common in the gorge, even during the summer.
- Although the hike is short, it requires walking on uneven terrain, so wear sturdy shoes.
- The parking lot here fills up quickly. If you visit on a summer weekend, be prepared to park elsewhere and walk.
Mt Hood National Forest
Practical Info
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Practical Info
International Rose Test Garden
- This is an outdoor attraction, so dress for the weather.
- This kid-friendly attraction is a hit among families.
- Dogs and other pets are welcome.
- Be sure to bring your camera to capture the blooms and the views.
- As the oldest official rose test garden in the United States, it’s a must for history-buffs, too.
Mt. Hood
- Mt. Hood is well suited for outdoorsy travelers.
- Pack water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for your visit.
- Mt. Hood National Forest extends south from the Columbia River Gorge across more than 60 miles (97 kilometers) of forested mountains, lakes, and streams to Olallie Scenic Area—a high lake basin under the slopes of Mt. Jefferson.
- There are six ski areas on Mt. Hood, one of which (Timberline Lodge) has lift service year-round.
Willamette Valley
- Oregon has strict drinking-and-driving laws. There are plenty of tours and driving services for those wanting to go wine-tasting safely.
- Most wineries charge a small tasting fee, which is often redeemable against purchases.
- Always bring rain gear: The weather can turn at any time (and does).
Japanese Garden
Reflecting the philosophical focus of Portland's large Japanese community, the five distinct gardens here are meant to encourage tranquility and provide color throughout the year. There is an on-site tea house where occasional tea ceremonies are held, an airy gift shop with a large variety of wares from Japan and an ever-changing lineup of art and craft exhibits.
Practical Info
Photo courtesy of user Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives via Wikimedia Commons
Latourell Falls
Practical Info
Oneonta Gorge
- Oneonta Gorge is a must-see for nature lovers.
- There is no trail through the lower gorge, so hiking here usually involves walking in cold water that can be anything from ankle deep to chest high, depending on the season.
- If you plan on hiking, wear closed-toe hiking shoes and clothes you don't mind getting wet.