free things to do in portland oregon
Portland, Oregon, is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful parks, and a plethora of free activities to enjoy. Here are some free things to do in Portland:
- Explore the Japanese Garden: The Portland Japanese Garden is a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Admission is free on the first Tuesday of every month.
- Walk through Forest Park: As one of the largest urban forests in the United States, Forest Park offers over 80 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Wildwood Trail.
- Visit the Saturday Market: Every Saturday from March to December, the Portland Saturday Market sets up shop in the city’s Old Town, featuring local artisans, crafts, and food vendors.
- Discover Street Art: Portland is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a self-guided tour to explore the city’s many murals and graffiti installations.
- Visit the Portland Art Museum’s Free Galleries: While some exhibits require admission, the Portland Art Museum offers free galleries, including the outdoor sculpture garden.
- Take a Brewery or Winery Tour: Many of Portland’s breweries and wineries offer free tours, such as Widmer Brothers Brewing and Coopers’ Hall.
- Explore the Lan Su Chinese Garden: While not entirely free, the Lan Su Chinese Garden offers free admission on the first Saturday of every month, as well as a complimentary guided tour.
- Attend a Free Outdoor Concert or Movie: During the summer months, many parks in Portland host free outdoor concerts and movie screenings.
- Visit the Pittock Mansion: The Pittock Mansion offers free admission on the first Tuesday of every month, providing stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Walk along the Willamette River Waterfront: The Tom McCall Waterfront Park offers beautiful views of the river and the city skyline, making it a great spot for a leisurely walk or picnic.
- Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry’s Free Exhibits: While some exhibits require admission, OMSI offers free exhibits, including the Science Playground and the Planetarium.
- Explore the Hawthorne District: This vibrant neighborhood is known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, and street performers, making it a fun and free place to explore.
- Take a Hike at Mt. Tabor Park: This scenic park offers several hiking trails, including the popular Mt. Tabor Summit Trail, which offers stunning views of the city.
- Visit the Portland Farmers Market: Every Saturday from March to December, the Portland Farmers Market sets up shop in the city’s Old Town, featuring local produce, crafts, and food vendors.
- Explore the Pearl District: This trendy neighborhood is known for its upscale shops, art galleries, and restaurants, making it a great place to explore on foot.
These are just a few of the many free things to do in Portland, Oregon. Whether you’re interested in nature, art, food, or culture, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.