Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Portland, Oregon

Portland is the largest city in the state of Oregon. At the turn of the 20th century, it was regarded as one of the most perilous port cities globally, characterized by organized crime and racketeering. This historical stigma has been superseded, and Portland has recently been recognized as the 8th most popular city in the United States.

The city demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and is recognized as one of the most eco-friendly cities worldwide. Many residents prefer cycling over driving, engage in extensive walking, and support farm-to-table dining.

Let’s delve into the premier attractions and activities in Portland.

1. Get Hands-On At The Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry was originally situated in the residence of businessman Ralph Lloyd, which featured the first planetarium in the Northwest, showcasing a 20-minute presentation. As popularity burgeoned, the building intended for the museum faced demolition. Fortunately, the Oregon City Council intervened to secure a lease for land in Washington Park. A dedicated team of 400 volunteers contributed to the project, leading to the new museum’s opening in 1958. Presently, the museum attracts over 1 million visitors annually.

2. So Many Things To Do In Washington Park

Washington Park is an extensive area spanning over 410 acres, housing many of Portland’s key attractions, including a zoo, a children’s museum, Japanese Gardens, and an arboretum. For those uninterested in visiting attractions, the park offers picnic spots, playgrounds, tennis courts, and vast expanses of green spaces or wild forest to explore. Enthusiasts of walking can enjoy over 15 miles of interconnected trails, some leading to Pittock Mansion, Forest Park, and Council Crest.

3. See The Elephants At Oregon Zoo

Oregon Zoo stands out as the state’s most renowned attraction, having commenced operations in 1888, following the donation of some animals by a private collector to the City of Portland. The zoo currently houses an impressive collection of approximately 1,955 animals spanning 232 species. Of these, 21 species are categorized as endangered or threatened and are part of dedicated breeding programs to support their survival. A notable achievement includes the successful breeding of new African elephants, which consistently attract visitors’ attention.

4. Explore Pittock Mansion

Pittock Mansion, situated in the hills west of Portland, is a stunning estate undoubtedly deserving of a visit. Constructed in 1909 for Henry Pittock and his wife, the mansion encompasses 46 rooms and is set within 46 acres of landscaped grounds. The property is now owned by the city of Oregon, having been opened to the public in 1965, attracting approximately 80,000 visitors annually. Situated at a height of 1,000 feet above sea level, the mansion offers excellent opportunities for bird watching. Over the years, the mansion has featured in various TV shows and films, the most notable being the movie ‘Unhinged,’ which faced bans in numerous countries due to its controversial content.

5. Admire The Beauty Of Lan Su Chinese Garden

Portland maintains a unique relationship with Suzhou in the Jiangsu province of China, renowned for its exquisite Ming Dynasty Gardens. The Lan Su Garden represents the most authentic Chinese garden outside of China. Once inside the garden’s walls, visitors can immerse themselves in Chinese culture, philosophy, and history. Translated, the garden’s name means “Garden of the Awakening Orchids.” Spending a few hours in this garden can leave visitors feeling invigorated and rejuvenated.

6. Have Fun in ‘Portland’s Living Room’

Pioneer Courthouse Square is colloquially referred to by locals as Portland’s Living Room. Centrally located in downtown, the square spans approximately 40,000 square feet and boasts several engaging features, including an outdoor chess table and a fountain resembling a cascading waterfall. At the heart of the square lies an amphitheater-like area with 24 steps functioning as seating during live performances. Throughout the square, the bricks are engraved with names of residents who contributed financially during construction, at a cost of $15 per name.

7. Take A Walk Through An Urban Forest Reserve

Located just outside of Portland in the Tualatin Mountains, Forest Park extends for 8 miles and ranks as one of the largest urban forest reserves in the United States. Covering over 5,000 acres, it offers more than 70 miles of trails suitable for exploration. The scenic routes cater to a variety of skill levels, ensuring accessibility for all. Many paths provide scenic overlooks of the Willamette River, enhancing the walking experience. A diverse array of bird species inhabit the park, making it an ideal spot for bird watchers who may wish to bring binoculars.

8. Relax In The Portland Japanese Garden

The Portland Japanese Garden is a must-visit for all travelers. Spanning five and a half acres, it consists of five distinct areas, each designed to foster feelings of peace, harmony, and tranquility. With deep cultural and historical significance, visitors can transition seamlessly between areas while experiencing ongoing tranquility. Countless hours can be devoted to exploring the garden, taking in the beautifully designed ponds, trees, and bridges.

9. See The Cherry Blossom Bloom At Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Tom McCall Waterfront Park, located alongside the Willamette River, was established following the removal of Harbor Drive from the city. The park is particularly popular among active individuals, frequently frequented by joggers, walkers, skateboarders, and cyclists. Additionally, visitors can enjoy views of boats on the river, attracting many locals during lunch breaks. The park encompasses five distinct zones: The Esplanade, a riverside walkway; The Bowl, a grassy area typically used for concerts; Salmon Street Springs, a fountain within a concrete plaza; John Yeon Building; and The Central Lawn, which fills with crowds during summer.

10. Join A Roller Skating Competition At Oaks Park

Oaks Park boasts the largest roller skating rink in the United States, making it the ideal destination for roller skating enthusiasts. Visitors can participate in competitions, attend disco nights, join couples’ events, or skate freely. In addition to roller skating, there are amusement park rides, miniature golf, and various carnival games, making it a favored entertainment spot for Portland residents and a vibrant place for family fun.

11. Feel Peace At The Grotto

The Grotto, situated in Portland, is a Catholic Shrine dedicated to Mary, Our Sorrowful Mother. It is a serene location where visitors are invariably enveloped by a sense of peace. Covering a vast 62-acre expanse, the Grotto welcomes individuals from all faiths. Central to the park is Our Lady’s Grotto, a rock cave carved into the cliff’s base housing a life-size marble replica of Michelangelo’s Pieta. The park features numerous picturesque walks, offering panoramic views of the Columbia River Valley from certain vantage points.

12. See The Coin That Decided Portland’s Name

The Oregon Historical Museum, located in downtown Portland, opened its doors to the public in 1898. The museum is best known for housing the Portland Penny, a copper penny from 1835 that was flipped to determine the city’s name, ultimately deciding between Portland and Boston, with Portland emerging victorious. The museum’s collection includes over 85,000 artifacts pertinent to the local history, making it a valuable educational experience for visitors.

13. Walk Amongst The Trees At Hoyt Arboretum

Hoyt Arboretum spans 187 acres and is located just a couple of miles from downtown Portland. It features approximately 10,000 individual trees and shrubs representing over 1,100 different species from around the world. Walking enthusiasts can choose from 12 miles of trails. The visitor center, situated at the heart of the park, offers an indoor classroom, picnic area, and meadows, while volunteers are available to conduct regular tours of the arboretum.

14. Peruse The Collections At The Portland Art Museum

Established in 1892, the Portland Art Museum ranks as the seventh oldest museum in the United States. It has garnered global recognition for its impressive permanent collection, which houses over 42,000 pieces. History enthusiasts will find numerous significant art pieces, including many sourced from the Indigenous peoples of North America and an extensive collection of English silverware. The museum’s campus also features the Jubitz Center for Modern and Contemporary Art, which is highly recommended for exploration.

15. Understand The Importance Of Trees

The World Forestry Center, located in Washington Park, covers an area of 20,000 square feet and aims to educate visitors about the significance of trees in our lives. Open since 1971, it has illuminated the minds of thousands over the years. Guests can experience a virtually dry raft ride simulating a bird’s eye view of a forest and embark on a virtual journey through China, Brazil, Russia, and South Africa, highlighting the challenges forests face globally.

16. Catch An Event At The Oregon Convention Center

Opened in 1990, the Oregon Convention Center encompasses approximately 1 million square feet and houses the largest ballroom in Portland. It generates hundreds of jobs for local residents and contributes millions of dollars annually to the local economy. The two spire towers of the center provide internal illumination and have become memorials for September 11, illuminated each year in remembrance. Additionally, the building boasts the largest Foucault Pendulum in the world.

17. Enjoy The Thrill Of Racing At Portland International Raceway

For motor racing aficionados, a visit to Portland International Raceway is essential. The 1.97-mile track hosts over 550 events annually, including drag racing, motocross, motorcycle road racing, auto racing, and cruise-ins. The venue is also involved in various annual walking, running, and physical activities that raise funds for notable charities.

18. Hang Out At The South Park Blocks

The South Park Blocks constitute a park located in downtown Portland, stretching across twelve blocks and gaining the nickname “Portland’s Living Room.” Each block features at least one example of public art, including notable statues of Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. The park is home to 337 elm, maple, and oak trees, collectively valued at $3.4 million, in addition to a stunning display of roses throughout the area. Numerous events occur throughout the year, making it a lively hub for locals and visitors alike.

19. Cheer On The Champs Of MLS

The Portland Timbers made their mark as the 18th team to join Major League Soccer and have established themselves among the top teams nationwide. Their victory in the 2015 MLS Cup, following their playoff journey, stands out as a highlight. Home games for the Timbers take place at Providence Park, typically in front of enthusiastic crowds that create a thrilling atmosphere. For soccer fans, attending a match is a memorable experience.

20. Stop And Admire The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is a botanical paradise located along the banks of Crystal Springs Creek in Portland. Home to over 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and various other plants, the garden presents a breathtaking display, particularly during blooming seasons. Visitors can wander through flower beds, pathways, fountains, waterfalls, and tranquil lakes. The gardens are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. from April to September and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. from October to March.

21. Educate Yourself And Your Family On The Holocaust

The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education serves as an exceptional venue for those interested in understanding the events surrounding the Holocaust. Recognized as the largest museum of its kind in the United States, it offers for visitors a compelling experience. A merger between two formerly separate museums has culminated in a unified effort to promote education on Jewish culture, heritage, and identity in Portland.

22. Get A Glimpse Of Life On A Submarine

The USS Blueback, the last non-nuclear submarine to serve in the United States Navy, remained active from 1959 until 1990. Currently docked at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, it offers a fascinating exhibit for visitors. Guests can explore life aboard the submarine, interact with a torpedo, and view through a periscope. Guided tours, available multiple times a day, provide insights into the submarine’s functions, while the radio room has been meticulously restored to full working order. The USS Blueback is also recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

23. Spend The Night At A Portland Historic Landmark

The Benson Hotel, located in downtown Portland, features 287 guest rooms and is classified as a historic landmark, also listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Renowned for its exquisite decor and modern conveniences, it offers two elegant ballrooms frequently utilized for events, weddings, and public gatherings. Guests can enjoy fine dining options, with a dedicated staff readily available to cater to every need.