must things to do in portland

Portland, Oregon, is known for its quirky vibe, stunning natural surroundings, and endless options for food, drink, and entertainment. Here are some must-do things to add to your Portland itinerary:

Nature and Outdoors

1. Explore the Japanese Garden: A serene oasis in the heart of the city, the Portland Japanese Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers.
2. Walk through Forest Park: One of the largest urban forests in the United States, Forest Park offers hiking trails, bird-watching, and stunning views.
3. Visit the Columbia River Gorge: Just outside of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and scenic drives.
4. Kayak or paddleboard on the Willamette River: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the city from a different perspective.

Food and Drink

1. Try a Voodoo Doughnut: This Portland institution is famous for its creative and delicious doughnuts.
2. Visit the Saturday Market: Every Saturday from March to December, the Portland Saturday Market offers local food, crafts, and live music.
3. Explore the city’s food trucks: Portland is known for its food trucks, which offer everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Egyptian koshari.
4. Sample the city’s craft beer scene: Portland is home to numerous craft breweries, such as Widmer Brothers Brewing and Cascade Brewing Barrel House.

Arts and Culture

1. Visit the Portland Art Museum: One of the oldest art museums in the United States, the Portland Art Museum features a diverse collection of art from around the world.
2. Explore the city’s street art: Portland’s streets are filled with colorful murals and graffiti, making it a great city to explore on foot.
3. Check out a live music venue: Portland has a thriving music scene, with venues like the Crystal Ballroom and the Doug Fir Lounge.
4. Visit Powell’s City of Books: This iconic bookstore covers an entire city block and is a must-visit for book lovers.

Quirky and Fun

1. Visit the 24-Hour Church of Elvis: This quirky museum is dedicated to all things Elvis and is a great place to take some fun photos.
2. Explore the city’s vintage shops: Portland is known for its vintage shopping scene, with stores like Red Light Clothing Exchange and Crossroads Trading Co.
3. Take a tour of the Shanghai Tunnels: Learn about Portland’s history and explore the hidden tunnels beneath the city.
4. Visit the International Rose Test Garden: This beautiful garden features over 10,000 rose bushes and is a great place to relax and unwind.

Sports and Adventure

1. Catch a Portland Timbers game: The city’s soccer team has a passionate fan base, and attending a game is a fun experience.
2. Visit the Moda Center: This arena hosts a variety of events, including Portland Trail Blazers games and concerts.
3. Go hiking in the nearby mountains: The Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood offer endless opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventure.
4. Take a bike tour of the city: Portland is a great city to explore by bike, with numerous bike lanes and scenic routes.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Portland. Whether you’re interested in nature, food, art, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in this unique and quirky city.