Welcome to our guide to the best attractions and things to do in the beautiful city of Portland! This Pacific Northwest gem has so much to offer, from its stunning natural beauty to its quirky and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or an art lover, you’ll find plenty of options to fill your itinerary. In this post, we’ll take you through some of Portland’s must-see attractions and hidden gems, so you can make the most of your visit to this wonderful city. So grab a cup of coffee or a craft beer, settle in, and let’s explore Portland together!
The 5 Best Tours with Locals in Portland
- Portland Day Trip Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour
- Columbia Gorge and Mt Hood Tour
- Portland Hop on Hop Off Tour
- Portland Combo Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Trolley and Columbia River Gorge Tour
- 2pm Half Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland
The 5 Best Tours with Locals in Portland
1. Portland Day Trip Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour
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Escape the bustling city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls with this guided day trip. The tour takes you along the historic Columbia River Highway National Scenic Byway and visits three magnificent falls, including Multnomah, Latourell and Bridal Veil. Hassle-free pickup and drop-off are offered from select downtown Portland hotels, making your journey convenient and comfortable. Your driver/guide will provide live commentary on board, giving you insight into the top-ranked attractions at the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The tour also takes you to the Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views. Gratuities, food, and drinks are not included, so make sure to bring your own. Don’t miss this opportunity to escape the city and experience nature’s wonders.
2. Columbia Gorge and Mt Hood Tour
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Experience the majestic beauty of the Columbia River Gorge Cascade Mountain Range and Mt Hood on this full-day guided tour from Portland. Delight in the comfort of a luxurious passenger van as you explore the Gorge’s top destinations, including breathtaking waterfalls, the iconic Bridge of the Gods, Mt Hood’s Timberline Lodge, and the charming city of Hood River. With a maximum of only 12 people per tour, your knowledgeable local guide will provide an intimate and informative experience. The tour includes transportation in a luxury vehicle, bottled water, lunch, and gratuity for your guide. Meet at Director Park and set out on an easy day trip in the natural wonder of the Pacific Northwest.
3. Portland Hop on Hop Off Tour
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Explore the diverse cityscape of Portland on this hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour. With your 1- or 2-day trolley pass, create your own adventure with 13 possible stops, including top attractions like Washington Park, the Pearl District, and Pioneer Square. Enjoy informative on-board commentary and hop off to sightsee at your leisure. Travel aboard a comfortable trolley with open-air or indoor seating options. Learn about the city’s rich history and culture from your expert guide. This tour includes a 1-day or 2-day hop-on hop-off bus pass, live on-board commentary, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off. You may start the tour at any of the stops listed, and disembark at any of the available stops. Head to the ticket redemption point at 1005 SW Main St Portland OR 97205 USA to redeem your pass. Get ready to explore Portland on your own terms with this convenient hop-on hop-off tour.
4. Portland Combo Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Trolley and Columbia River Gorge Tour
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Explore the best of Portland and Columbia River Gorge with this hop-on hop-off combo tour. With a 2-day sightseeing trolley pass, you have the freedom to create your own adventure and explore top attractions such as the International Rose Test Garden, Powell’s City of Books, and the Oregon Zoo. Alongside the Lewis and Clark Trail, admire the beauty of Multnomah Falls and the Bonneville Dam with stops for photos. Travel along the Historic Columbia River Highway and enjoy breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge while discovering Oregon landmarks documented by explorers Lewis and Clark, such as Cape Horn and Rooster Rock. Round-trip transport to Columbia River Gorge and a 2-day hop-on hop-off sightseeing trolley pass are included in the tour.
5. 2pm Half Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland
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Escape the city and explore some of the greater Portland area’s most scenic natural wonders with the Half Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls tour. This tour takes you on a journey to see not only Multnomah Falls, but also other beautiful falls along the Columbia River Gorge – the largest concentration of waterfalls in the country. Marvel at the cascading waters and take plenty of photos or simply bask in the awe-inspiring natural beauty. You’ll also get to enjoy the panoramic views from the Crown Point Vista House while an expert guide provides enlightening commentary on the local flora, fauna and history of the area. Transportation, bottled water, and live onboard commentary are all included. Hotel or port drop-off at select downtown Portland hotels is also available. Don’t miss this chance to experience the wonders of nature on this unforgettable tour.
FAQs About Portland: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists
Portland, Oregon is known for its lively music scene, beautiful parks, and unique cultural offerings. If you’re planning a visit to this city, you’re in for a treat. However, you may still have some questions about the best things to do, places to eat, and how to get around. This guide will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Portland so you can make the most of your trip.What’s the best time to visit Portland?
Portland’s weather is mild and wet throughout the year, with some snow in the winter. The best time to visit the city is between June and August when it’s warm and sunny. During this time, you can attend a plethora of outdoor events and festivals such as the Portland Rose Festival and the Waterfront Blues Festival. The fall is another great time to visit Portland, with the foliage changing colors and cooler temperatures.Where are the best places to eat in Portland?
Portland is a foodie’s dream come true. The city is known for its food carts, which offer an array of international cuisines such as Thai, Mexican, and Vietnamese. If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, there are plenty of options available too. Some popular places to eat include Pok Pok, which serves Thai street food, Screen Door, which is famous for its southern comfort food, and Bamboo Sushi, which offers sustainable sushi.What are the top tourist attractions in Portland?
Portland is home to several world-renowned attractions. The most famous one is the International Rose Test Garden, which features over 10,000 rose bushes. The Portland Japanese Garden is another must-visit spot, featuring tranquil waterfalls and winding paths. If you’re a fan of art, you’ll want to check out the Portland Art Museum, which has over 42,000 works of art. For families with children, the Oregon Zoo and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry are great options.How do I get around Portland?
Portland has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, light rail trains, and streetcars. The TriMet system serves the city and surrounding suburbs. You can purchase tickets at ticket vending machines and on the TriMet app. Another popular option for getting around is biking. Portland is a bike-friendly city with over 350 miles of bike lanes and designated routes. You can rent a bike from various bike shops around the city.What are some outdoor activities in Portland?
Portland is known for its beautiful outdoors, with many parks, gardens, and hiking trails available for visitors to explore. The most popular outdoor attraction is Forest Park, which is one of the largest urban parks in the country. It has over 80 miles of trails for hiking, running, and biking. If you’re interested in water activities, you can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or rafting on the Willamette River or the Columbia River.What are some music and entertainment options in Portland?
Portland has a vibrant music scene with several venues that host live performances every night. The Crystal Ballroom is an iconic venue that has been around since 1914 and has hosted legendary artists such as Prince and David Bowie. The Doug Fir Lounge is another popular spot, known for its indie rock shows. For theater lovers, the Portland Center Stage at the Armory offers a wide range of productions from classic to contemporary.Where can I find the best shopping in Portland?
Portland has a variety of shopping options available, from local boutiques to high-end retailers. The most famous shopping destination is the Pearl District, which has numerous stores selling clothes, accessories, and home goods. If you’re looking for vintage clothing or unique gifts, you’ll want to check out the Hawthorne District or the Alberta Arts District. The Pioneer Place mall is also worth a visit, with over 90 stores and restaurants.What are some unique cultural offerings in Portland?
Portland is a culturally diverse city with several unique offerings. The Portland Saturday Market is the largest outdoor arts and crafts market in the country and has been around for over 40 years. The Lan Su Chinese Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring traditional Chinese architecture and a tea house. The Pittock Mansion is another cultural gem, offering a glimpse into Portland’s early history and architectural heritage.What’s the best way to plan my trip to Portland?
The best way to plan your trip to Portland is to do some research beforehand and create an itinerary that suits your interests. Use online resources such as travel blogs, social media, and tourism websites to get an idea of the city’s offerings. You can also book tours and activities in advance to save time and money. Don’t forget to leave some flexibility in your schedule, so you can explore the city at your leisure.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Portland
Visiting Portland as a tourist can be a great experience. The city has so much to offer, from beautiful parks and gardens to historic landmarks and museums. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to decide how to spend your time. In this guide, we’ll share some of the best things to do in Portland, along with tips for making the most of your visit.1. Visit the Portland Japanese Garden
The Portland Japanese Garden is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in Portland. It’s a great place to take a walk, relax and enjoy the scenery. The garden covers 12 acres and features eight different garden styles, including a serene Zen garden, a stunning waterfall and a tea garden. With the changing seasons, there’s always something new to see.Top Tips:
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
- Check the website for information on events and tours.
- Consider purchasing a membership if you plan to visit more than once, as it can save you money.
2. Explore Forest Park
Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States. It’s home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of plants and animals. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful walk, this park has something for everyone. Some of the most popular trails include Wildwood Trail, Ridge Trail and Leif Erikson Drive.Top Tips:
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as some of the hikes can be quite long and strenuous.
- Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the park’s history and ecology.
3. Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a great place to learn about science in a fun and engaging way. The museum features hundreds of interactive exhibits on topics such as engineering, physics, space and more. It also has an OMNIMAX theater, where you can watch educational documentaries and movies.Top Tips:
- Check the museum’s website for hours and ticket prices.
- Consider purchasing tickets in advance to skip the lines.
- Plan to spend several hours at the museum, as there’s a lot to see and do.
4. Explore the Pearl District
The Pearl District is one of Portland’s most popular neighborhoods. It’s home to a variety of art galleries, restaurants, shops and more. It’s a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of interesting architecture and public art to discover.Top Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot of walking involved.
- Check out the First Thursday art walk, when many galleries in the neighborhood offer free admission and refreshments.
- Consider taking a streetcar to get around the neighborhood more easily.
5. Visit the Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum is one of the oldest art museums in the country. It features a collection of more than 42,000 works of art from around the world, including pieces by Monet, Warhol and other famous artists. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.Top Tips:
- Check the museum’s website for hours and admission prices.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the museum’s collections.
- Plan to spend at least a few hours at the museum, as there’s a lot to see.
6. Shop at Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s City of Books is one of the largest independent bookstores in the world. It covers an entire city block and features more than one million books. Whether you’re looking for a rare book or just browsing, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.Top Tips:
- Plan to spend plenty of time exploring the store, as it’s easy to get lost in the stacks.
- Check out the rare book room for some truly unique finds.
- Consider attending one of the store’s many author events.
7. Take a Walk Along the Waterfront
Portland’s waterfront is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the views. You can walk along the Willamette River and check out the boats and bridges. The Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a popular spot for picnics and events.Top Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the sidewalk can be uneven in places.
- Bring a camera to capture the views.
- Check the park’s website for information on events and activities.
Book Your Tour Now
Portland has something for everyone, whether you’re a nature lover, an art enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing vacation. With so many things to see and do, it can be hard to choose. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this vibrant and beautiful city.
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