Portland is a beautiful and weird city! It has a bunch of fun things to do like vintage hunting in SE, going to the largest independent bookstore, and getting lost in the bountiful nature.
Here are 13 amazing spots to check out within the city.
1. International Rose Test Garden
This spot features over 10,000 blooming rose bushes in every color imaginable. Walk through the fields of roses while checking out views of downtown Portland framed by Mount Hood.
- It’s free to visit, but make sure to check out when blooms are in season before you go.
- The parking is crazy during summer weekends. I’d recommend going earlier in the day to miss the chaos.
2. Portland Japanese Garden
Right across from the roses, step into what is widely considered the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan. Go here if you’re looking for peaceful energy.
- Grab a cup of matcha at the Umami Tea House overlooking the forest canopy. Tickets are $22.50.
- Since the Japanese and Rose Garden share the same parking it can get wild. Go sooner rather than later on busy weekend days.
3. Pittock Mansion
Sitting on a hill above the city, this historic chateau offers the absolute best panoramic skyline view in Portland. My recommendation is to hike up to the mansion and take in the views. You can pay to visit the interior of the building, I recommend just taking in the views outside.
- Hit it around golden hour for stunning sunset photos over the city.
4. Witch’s Castle in Forest Park
The easy 1-mile trail runs along a creek and drops you right at Portland’s favorite photogenic stone house.
- It’s an easy, flat walk that’s great for a quick afternoon nature fix.
- Head to the Lower Macleay Park trailhead. Parking fills up fast so make sure you go earlier or past the afternoon rush.
5. Oregon Zoo
Set deep in the trees of Washington Park, the Oregon Zoo focuses heavily on global conservation and Pacific Northwest wildlife. Meet all of the fun animals and make sure to check out their events. They periodically host Zoo Lights, Beer fests and more.
- Skip parking headaches and take the MAX Light Rail directly to the zoo entrance. Both the red and blue line go right to the zoo.
6. Shop on NW 23rd
This lively, tree-lined street in the Alphabet District is packed with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and storefronts. You can grab a coffee, pop into local stores(Portland Leather and Fisherman’s Daughter Vintage are my faves!), and spend hours wandering the bustling blocks. Plus, check out the incredible food spots tucked along the side streets!
- Street parking around NW 23rd is typically jam packed. In my experience, the best spot to find parking is near NW 22nd and Marshall.
7. Powell’s City of Books
This independent bookstore covers an entire city block. You can grab a coffee and explore the rooms on rooms on rooms of books. Plus, check out their cute merch!
- Check the staff recommendations tags. And make sure to head to the Pearl Room to check out the rare books.
- More street parking! Definitely snag the first spot you see.
8. Portland Art Museum
PAM brings a vibrant mix of Indigenous art, modern pieces, and massive rotating exhibits right to downtown’s tree-lined South Park Blocks.
- Check out the incredible collection of Native American art celebrating regional heritage.
- It’s $27.50 for an adult ticket
9. Portland Saturday Market
Held seasonally on Saturdays along the waterfront, check out the open air stalls with local artisans. Expect local artists, handmade jewelry, funky woodwork, and incredible street food carts(the elephant ears are amaze).
10. OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry)
Located along the Willamette River, OMSI makes science interactive and fun. Walk inside a real decommissioned Navy submarine, catch a show in the Planetarium, or test out physics experiments.
- Check out OMSI After Dark for 21+ events with drinks, science shows, and no kids allowed.
- Adult tickets to OMSI are $22.50
11. Cascada Thermal Springs
Cascada brings European hydrotherapy right into the city. If you’re looking for a bougie spa experience this is the place for you.
- The day pass is spendy, $100
12. Vintage Shop in Southeast Portland
Make sure to check out SE Hawthorne or Division streets for amazing vintage stores. Cruise through multi-vendor antique malls and curated boutiques packed with 70s jackets, mid-century home goods, and classic band tees.
Some of my faves are:
- Memory Den
- House of Vintage
- Red Light
- Lounge Lizard
- Village Merchants
13. Hopscotch
Hopscotch is a super fun immersive art exhibit. Think interactive sound installations, glowing ball pits, and mind-bending rooms designed to play with your senses.
It’s fun and $24 per ticket.
