Portland, Oregon, is a city that thrives on weirdness, creativity, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or an adrenaline junkie, this Pacific Northwest gem has something for everyone.
From lush green parks to quirky street art, Portland’s charm is impossible to resist.
Ready to dive into the best this city has to offer? Buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a ride through the 12 best things to do in Portland, Oregon—each one guaranteed to make your trip unforgettable. Let’s get started!
1. Explore the International Rose Test Garden
If you’re visiting Portland between May and October, the International Rose Test Garden is a must-see.
As the oldest official public rose test garden in the U.S., it boasts over 10,000 rose bushes in more than 650 varieties. The colors, the scents, the views of Mount Hood—it’s pure magic.
Stroll through the terraced gardens, snap Instagram-worthy pics, and maybe even catch a free summer concert.
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the roses glistening with dew. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast or just love pretty things, this spot is one of the best things to do in Portland, Oregon.
2. Get Lost in Powell’s City of Books
Calling all bookworms! Powell’s City of Books isn’t just a bookstore—it’s a literary wonderland.
Taking up an entire city block, this iconic shop houses over 1 million books, both new and used.
You could spend hours wandering through its color-coded rooms and still not see everything.
Grab a coffee from their in-house café, hunt for rare finds, or just soak in the cozy, bookish vibes. Whether you’re into sci-fi, travel memoirs, or cookbooks, Powell’s has you covered.
It’s no wonder this place is a top thing to do in Portland for locals and tourists alike.
3. Hike Through Forest Park
For nature lovers, Forest Park is a dream come true. Spanning 5,200 acres, it’s one of the largest urban forests in the country, with over 80 miles of trails.
The Wildwood Trail, in particular, is a local favorite—a 30-mile path that winds through towering evergreens and peaceful creeks.
Whether you’re up for a challenging hike or a leisurely walk, Forest Park delivers stunning views and fresh Pacific Northwest air. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture the lush greenery and maybe even spot some wildlife.
If you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Portland, this should be at the top of your list.
4. Stroll Through the Portland Saturday Market
Want to experience Portland’s vibrant arts scene? Head to the Portland Saturday Market, the largest continuously operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the U.S. Open every weekend from March to December, this place is a treasure trove of handmade jewelry, quirky art, and delicious food.
From funky ceramics to hand-poured candles, you’ll find unique souvenirs you won’t get anywhere else.
Hungry? Grab a bite from one of the many food stalls serving everything from vegan treats to global street food. If you love supporting local artists, this is one of the best things to do in Portland, Oregon on a weekend.
5. Discover the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
Got kids? Or just a curious mind? The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a blast for all ages.
With interactive exhibits on everything from space exploration to chemistry, this place makes learning ridiculously fun.
Don’t miss the planetarium shows or the USS Blueback submarine tour—it’s one of the few submarines you can actually walk through.
Whether you’re into dinosaurs, physics, or tech, OMSI has something to spark your imagination. For a mix of education and entertainment, this is easily one of the top things to do in Portland.
6. Bike Along the Eastbank Esplanade
Portland is one of the most bike-friendly cities in America, and the Eastbank Esplanade is the perfect place to pedal.
This 1.5-mile loop offers stunning views of the Willamette River and the downtown skyline.
Rent a bike from one of the city’s Biketown stations, cruise along the waterfront, and stop for photos on the iconic Tilikum Crossing Bridge.
Whether you’re a serious cyclist or just want a leisurely ride, this is one of the best outdoor things to do in Portland, Oregon.
7. Taste Your Way Through Portland’s Food Cart Pods
Forget fancy restaurants—Portland’s food cart pods are where the real magic happens. With over 500 food carts scattered across the city, you can eat your way around the world in a single afternoon.
Hit up Cartopia for late-night eats, or swing by Midtown Beer Garden for a mix of global flavors.
Craving Thai? Mexican? Vegan comfort food? Portland’s food carts have it all. If you’re a foodie, this is hands-down one of the best things to do in Portland.
8. Visit the Portland Art Museum
Art lovers, rejoice! The Portland Art Museum is the oldest in the Pacific Northwest, featuring everything from Native American art to contemporary masterpieces.
With 42,000+ works in its collection, there’s always something new to discover.
Check out rotating exhibits, attend an artist talk, or just wander through the stunning galleries. Whether you’re into modern sculptures or classic paintings, this museum is a must-visit in Portland.
9. Relax at the Lan Su Chinese Garden
Step into a tranquil oasis at the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a slice of ancient China right in downtown Portland.
Designed by artisans from Portland’s sister city, Suzhou, this garden is a masterpiece of ponds, pavilions, and rare plants.
Sip on traditional tea at the teahouse, admire the koi fish, or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
If you need a break from the city buzz, this is one of the most serene things to do in Portland, Oregon.
10. Catch a Show at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Love live performances? The historic Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall hosts everything from symphony orchestras to stand-up comedy.
The “Portland” sign out front is an iconic photo op, and the acoustics inside are unbeatable.
Check their schedule for upcoming shows—whether you’re into jazz, rock, or Broadway, there’s always something exciting happening here.
For a night of culture and entertainment, this is a top thing to do in Portland.
11. Wander Through the Alberta Arts District
Quirky, artsy, and full of life—the Alberta Arts District is Portland at its most creative. This neighborhood is packed with indie galleries, funky boutiques, and some of the best street art in the city.
Visit on the Last Thursday of the month for an epic street fair with live music, food, and pop-up vendors.
Whether you’re shopping for unique finds or just soaking in the bohemian vibe, Alberta Street is one of the coolest things to do in Portland, Oregon.
12. Take a Day Trip to Multnomah Falls
Just 30 minutes from Portland, Multnomah Falls is a jaw-dropping natural wonder. At 620 feet tall, it’s the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and the sight of water cascading down mossy cliffs is pure magic.
Hike up to the Benson Bridge for an up-close view, or tackle the steep trail to the top if you’re feeling adventurous.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just want an epic photo, this is one of the best day trips from Portland.
Final Thoughts: Ready to Explore Portland?
From breathtaking nature to buzzing food scenes, Portland is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, these 12 best things to do in Portland, Oregon will keep you busy, inspired, and maybe even a little obsessed.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today—Portland’s weird, wonderful charm is calling your name!