things to do in downtown portland

Downtown Portland is a vibrant and eclectic area with a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Here are some things to do in downtown Portland:

1. Explore the Food Carts: Portland is famous for its food carts, and downtown is home to many of them. Try some of the city’s best street food, from Vietnamese banh mi to Egyptian koshari.
2. Visit Pioneer Courthouse Square: This iconic square is the heart of downtown Portland and hosts many events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts, farmers’ markets, and holiday celebrations.
3. Walk through the Japanese Garden: The Portland Japanese Garden is a serene oasis in the midst of the bustling city. Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
4. Shop at Powell’s City of Books: Powell’s is the largest independent bookstore in the world and a must-visit for book lovers. Browse the shelves, attend a reading or event, and enjoy a cup of coffee at the in-store cafe.
5. Visit the Portland Art Museum: The Portland Art Museum is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country, with a collection of over 42,000 works of art.
6. Take a Brewery Tour: Portland is famous for its craft beer scene, and downtown is home to many breweries, including Widmer Brothers Brewing, Deschutes Brewery, and Cascade Brewing Barrel House.
7. Explore the Saturday Market: Every Saturday from March to December, the Portland Saturday Market takes over the streets of downtown, featuring local artisans, craftspeople, and food vendors.
8. Visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden: This beautiful garden is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with stunning architecture, water features, and a teahouse.
9. Go Shopping at the Pearl District: The Pearl District is a trendy neighborhood just north of downtown, known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
10. Take a Street Art Walking Tour: Portland is known for its vibrant street art scene, and downtown is home to many murals and graffiti. Take a self-guided walking tour to explore the city’s urban art.
11. Visit the Oregon Historical Society Museum: This museum tells the story of Oregon’s history, from its indigenous peoples to its pioneers and settlers.
12. Attend a Performance at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts: This complex includes several theaters and venues, hosting a wide range of performances, from classical music to dance and theater.
13. Explore the Waterfront Park: The Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a scenic park along the Willamette River, perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or a boat ride.
14. Visit the Portland Farmers Market: Every Wednesday and Saturday, the Portland Farmers Market takes over the streets of downtown, featuring local farmers, food vendors, and artisans.
15. Take a Coffee Tour: Portland is famous for its coffee culture, and downtown is home to many independent coffee shops and cafes. Take a self-guided tour to sample some of the city’s best coffee.

These are just a few of the many things to do in downtown Portland. Whether you’re interested in food, art, history, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and eclectic city.