12 Best Things to Do in Portland Oregon This Year
Portland, Oregon is a city where nature, art, and food come together in the most unexpected ways. From forest hikes to quirky street corners, every spot tells a story. I’ve walked its bridges, browsed its bookstores, and tasted its legendary doughnuts
I can say Portland truly offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, here are 12 amazing things to do in Portland Oregon that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Explore Washington Park
Washington Park is one of Portland’s most iconic outdoor spaces, perfect for both locals and tourists. It’s home to the Portland Japanese Garden, Oregon Zoo, and the famous International Rose Test Garden.
Whether you’re walking the trails or taking in skyline views, there’s something relaxing and fun here. The MAX light rail stops nearby, making it super accessible. It’s a peaceful escape right in the middle of a vibrant, green city.
2. Visit Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s City of Books in downtown Portland is a dream come true for readers. It spans an entire block and has over one million new and used books. You can spend hours exploring the color-coded rooms, reading staff picks, or sipping coffee in the attached café.
It’s one of the few bookstores where you’ll likely find rare titles and indie works. Even non-readers enjoy the vibe and creativity of this local treasure.
3. Walk Across Tilikum Crossing
Tilikum Crossing is Portland’s car-free bridge designed for people, bikes, and public transport. The views from the bridge are breathtaking, especially at sunset with Mount Hood in the background.
It connects the South Waterfront to the east side, making it a great path for walkers and cyclists. Its colorful nighttime lighting adds to the charm. This bridge symbolizes Portland’s focus on sustainable travel and community-friendly design—plus, it’s free and photogenic!
4. Relax in the Portland Japanese Garden
Located in Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden is often called the most authentic outside Japan. It’s a quiet, beautifully landscaped space with koi ponds, bridges, and traditional architecture.
Designed for mindfulness and peace, the garden offers guided tours and cultural events. Whether you’re into photography or looking for a calming walk, it’s the ideal place to reconnect with nature and appreciate traditional Japanese aesthetics in the heart of the city.
5. Discover the International Rose Test Garden
With over 10,000 rose bushes and 600+ varieties, the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park is colorful, fragrant, and entirely free to visit.
The garden started in 1917 as a testing ground for new rose breeds and now serves as a symbol of Portland’s nickname, “The City of Roses.” Visit in June for peak bloom. The view of downtown and Mount Hood from the garden is stunning—making it perfect for pictures and picnics.
6. Spend a Day at OMSI
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of Portland’s top attractions for all ages. It features hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and even a retired navy submarine.
Located near the riverfront, OMSI is great for kids and curious adults alike. You can learn about space, chemistry, mechanics, and more in a fun, interactive way. It’s both educational and entertaining, perfect for a rainy day or family outing.
7. Hike in Forest Park
Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., with over 80 miles of trails. Located in Northwest Portland, it’s ideal for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying nature without leaving the city.
Try the popular Wildwood Trail or Lower Macleay Trail for a peaceful escape. You’ll pass mossy trees, small creeks, and historic sites like the Witch’s Castle. It’s perfect for both serious hikers and casual nature lovers.
8. Take a Tour of Pittock Mansion
Pittock Mansion is a historic house perched in the West Hills, offering panoramic views of Portland. Built in 1914, it was once the home of The Oregonian newspaper’s founder.
Today, it’s a museum with beautifully preserved rooms and stories of early Portland life. The surrounding grounds are ideal for picnics and photos. It’s a great way to combine local history, impressive architecture, and scenic views—all in one quiet, lovely visit.
9. Visit Lan Su Chinese Garden
Lan Su Chinese Garden is a peaceful, walled garden in Portland’s Old Town Chinatown. Built by artisans from Suzhou, China, it’s a perfect blend of architecture, plants, water, and poetry.
You can enjoy tea in the traditional teahouse or explore pavilions and bridges. It’s small but beautifully detailed, offering a serene escape in the middle of the city. Don’t forget your camera—the reflections on the pond are postcard-perfect all year round.
10. Take a Ride on the Portland Aerial Tram
The Portland Aerial Tram connects the South Waterfront with the Oregon Health & Science University campus. But even if you’re not a student or staff, the ride is worth it for the views alone.
You’ll get stunning panoramic sights of downtown Portland, Mount Hood, and the Willamette River. The ride takes about four minutes each way and offers a unique way to see the city from above—especially on a clear, sunny day.
11. See Multnomah Falls (Just Outside Portland)
Just a 30-minute drive from Portland, Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s most famous waterfall and a breathtaking sight. It plunges 620 feet in two tiers, with a scenic bridge between them. The falls are easily accessible right off I-84 in the Columbia River Gorge.
There’s a short, paved hike to the bridge or a longer trail to the top. Bring your camera—this natural wonder is one of the most photographed spots in the Pacific Northwest.
12. Experience Voodoo Doughnut
Voodoo Doughnut in Old Town is not your average bakery. Known for its quirky flavors and bold designs, it serves creations like the Bacon Maple Bar and Voodoo Doll doughnut. Open 24/7, it’s a fun place to grab a late-night snack or a sugary souvenir.
The pink boxes are iconic, and there’s often a line—proof of its popularity. If you love trying new things, this offbeat spot will satisfy your sweet tooth.
My Portland Story: A City That Stays With You
Every place leaves a mark—but Portland left a memory. From hiking Forest Park to biting into a weirdly perfect doughnut at midnight, every moment felt real and alive. It’s a city where nature and soul blend.
I came for a weekend, but parts of me stayed behind—on Alberta’s streets, under waterfalls, and between the pages at Powell’s. If you ask me, Portland doesn’t just welcome you—it keeps a piece of you forever.
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