11 Fun Things to Do in Portland, According to the Locals 

The largest city in Oregon, Portland, is known for its natural beauty, progressive values, and creative spirit. It’s got a big personality and eclectic style like no other US city, with a fascinating history to match! 

When pioneers arrived in the 1840s, they found the area was prime real estate for a wide variety of industries. Its direct access to the Pacific Ocean via the Columbia and Willamette rivers (and later by rail) established it as a major port city. Its easy access to the Tualatin Valley offered rich agricultural opportunities, and its dense forests made it a prominent player in the lumber industry.  

Along with all that port-city hustle and bustling economy, Portland eventually attracted some undesirable elements, too. It became a hub for racketeering and organized crime activity at the turn of the 20th century. However, things finally calmed down as the WWII industrial boom gained momentum. The influx of hippie subculture in the 60s put the City of Roses on its way to the (mostly) laid-back bastion of counterculture it is today.  

Creativity is king in Portland! It’s home to a thriving arts scene with a multitude of visual and performing arts venues hosting everything from opera to the avant-garde. A wide variety of museums and educational institutions show off the city’s intellectual side, the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers bring a vibrant sports vibe, and its impressive park system allows residents and visitors to commune with nature without the road trip.   

So, where to begin? If you’re a visitor or brand-new resident, the city’s abundance of things to see and do can leave you with decision fatigue. But the locals in the area are happy to help! Read on — in this post, we’ll share some of their suggestions for embarking on your Portland adventure.

1. Get outdoors and revel in the view

Kristina Graff, local family and portrait photographer and founder of Kristina Graff Photography, recommended some must-see natural landmarks. “If conditions are favorable, you have to stop and see some waterfalls in the area. There are a TON, but I would recommend Bridal Veil Falls and Latourell Falls. They’re both a fairly short and easy walk to see the falls up close, so they’re accessible for everyone. Plus, they’re only five minutes apart! Latourell also has a trail that goes past the falls and back under the bridge on the road if you’re looking for something a little more involved.” 

“If the weather is rainy (let’s face it, Portland is rainy a lot of the year) and you want to stay dry, take a drive along the Columbia River Gorge. Or be extra adventurous and head up past Bridal Veil to check out Vista House; the view is incredible, whether you brave the weather to get out of your car or not. The beauty of the Pacific Northwest is amazing, and you will not regret seeing at least a small part of it.” 

2. Check out Pittock Mansion

Devin VonderHaar, home organizer and creator of local interior design company The Modern Minimalist, suggests visiting the historic Pittock Mansion. Built in 1914, the Mansion was home to wealthy newspaper publisher Henry Pittock and his wife, Georgiana. Both were dedicated to improving the lives of Portland residents, remaining active in its society, and contributing to its civic organizations. 

The Mansion-turned-museum is an impressive feat of architecture full of beautiful period furnishings and personal artifacts, so if you go, budget plenty of time to meander through its rooms and gardens. There are several exhibits highlighting not only the Pittock family’s contributions to the city but also how Portland’s indigenous and immigrant communities made an invaluable mark on its identity.  

It features 48 acres of stunning rose gardens and woodland, not to mention its dramatic view of the city skyline and Mt. Hood. Bonus: The Mansion is said to be haunted by the Pittocks, so be sure to say hi while you’re there.  

Good to know: The Mansion is open Monday-Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (noon to 5 on Tuesdays) from May through October. It closes an hour earlier in November through April.

3. Explore downtown and marvel at the Portlandia statue

VonderHaar also recommended a stop at the Portlandia statue, one of Portland’s most iconic monuments. Partially concealed in the shadow of the Portland Building stands this majestic statue depicting the powerful and graceful “Lady Commerce” featured on the Portland city seal. At nearly 35 feet tall, it’s the second largest copper statue in the US after the Statue of Liberty. The Portlandia statue happens to be one of many beloved landmarks featured in several of the city’s self-guided walking tours and scavenger hunts. If you aren’t already in love with the city, you will be after this — it’s a fantastic way to spend the day! 

4. Go shopping at NW 23rd

NW 23rd is perhaps Portland’s best-known area for shopping at locally-owned boutiques and businesses. From books and toys for the kiddos to kitschy clothes and gifts harvested from local estate sales, there are things in these shops you literally won’t find anywhere else but in Portland.  

There’s something for everyone on NW 23rd. For example, you can stop at Hip Hound to pick out a carefully curated toy for your dog or cat and a freshly made custom cake or treat at the barkery. Mosey over to New Renaissance, the largest metaphysical bookstore in the country, to take a meditation class and pick up a book on plant spirit medicine. And don’t forget a trip to Blush Beauty Bar, where you can grab some hard-to-find local and cult-brand cosmetics.

5. Save room for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert!

Portland is truly a foodie’s paradise, so it’s difficult to name one must-see restaurant over another. Add a diverse selection of international fare to the mix, and choosing a place to go becomes even trickier! If you’re looking for a healthy acai bowl or smoothie before starting your city adventure at the Portlandia Sculpture, VonderHaar suggests giving Moberi on 23rd Avenue a try.  

For lunch, VonderHaar directed us to Fish + Rice, a casual, counter-service restaurant where you can get colorful sushi rolls, sashimi, nigiri, and poke bowls. If you’re in the mood for some Venezuelan food, try La Arepa for authentic empanadas, pepitos, and, of course, a variety of arepas that’ll make your mouth water.  

Dinner may be the hardest to choose, so it might help to decide if you want fancy date night, casual, or maybe something in-between. If you’re looking for something with an eclectic vibe, try Bollywood theatre or Duck House. Want something trendy and romantic? Book an evening at Republica for their Mexico-forward chef’s tasting dinner. If you’d prefer something in between, try Gabbiano’s for incredible Italian food or Nicholas for authentic Lebanese. 

6. Go on an adventure on the 4T Trail Loop

Carve out an entire day for this suggestion from Beth Benner, broker at the Bridge to Portland Group at Living Room Realty! The 4T Trail is “A uniquely Portland eight-mile ‘hike’ using all the transportation and trails you find along the way,” she says. “Offering unique perspectives, you can walk just a mile and reach the heady heights of 1,073  feet on Council Crest or glide 3,300 linear feet downhill in 3 minutes while on the aerial tram. There is plenty to see, but you can take your time as you go, even stopping to eat at the many restaurants, cafés, and food carts you will spot along the way!” 

7. Stop and smell the roses at the Rose Test Garden

“When visiting Portland, Oregon, there are a few must-see attractions and activities to experience,” says Karen Rivelli of Master Movers. “Start your adventure at the International Rose Test Garden, home to over 10,000 beautiful rose bushes!” Established in 1917, it’s called the “test garden” because that’s exactly what it is — a testing ground for new rose varieties. Rose breeders from around the world send their hybrids to be evaluated in our ideal-for-roses Portland climate (hence the moniker “City of Roses”). You’ll find 4.5 acres of over 10,000 rose bushes representing roughly 650 different varieties here, with peak bloom usually in June. The garden hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Rose Festival. 

8. Spend a morning at the Portland Saturday Market

“Next, explore the bustling Saturday Market for unique crafts and delicious local food,” says Rivelli.  A popular destination for locals and visitors alike, the Market is framed by gorgeous views of the city skyline and the Willamette River for a backdrop that can’t be beat for strolling, shopping, and attending one of the many events held at the Market. You’ll find a wide variety of local vendors selling handmade crafts, fine jewelry, gifts, and wares.  

The Saturday Market also features live music and food trucks, making it an excellent place to grab some lunch and soak in the local culture. Its downtown location makes the Market easy to get to by foot, bike, or public transport. “And don’t miss Powell’s City of Books, Rivelli adds. “It’s the world’s largest independent bookstore!” 

Good to know: The Portland Saturday Market runs from March through December and is open from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and 11 am to 4:30 pm on Sundays.

9. Immerse yourself in Lan Su Chinese Garden

Rivelli also recommended a stroll through the serene Lan Su Chinese Garden in Portland’s Chinatown neighborhood. Designed in a traditional Suzhou garden style, Lan Su Garden is one of the most authentic Chinese gardens outside of China. It was built as a collaboration between Portland and its sister city, Suzhou, and features traditional Chinese pavilions, bridges, and rockeries, all designed by Suzhou artisans and built using materials from Suzhou. 

Many of the plants you’ll find there aren’t typically seen outside of China and are selected to reflect the changing seasons. You’ll also appreciate tranquil Lake Zither. The lake is the centerpiece of the garden, home to koi fish and lotus flowers, and surrounded by paths, bridges, and pavilions.  

The garden also serves as a cultural center, hosting Chinese New Year Celebrations, educational programs, and other events. Don’t miss the tea ceremonies at the authentic Chinese teahouse located in the gardens, where you can enjoy traditional Chinese tea and snacks.

10. Take a hike in Forest Park

Another of Portland’s most impressive displays of natural beauty, Rivelli suggested we take a day to explore Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the US. Forest Park stretches about eight miles long (over 5,200 acres) along the West Hills and boasts over 80 miles of trails and forest roads. Inside the park, you’ll find an ecosystem full of the most beautiful local flora and fauna and plenty of spots to take in the stunning views of Portland and the Willamette River. On a clear day, you can see the distant peaks of Mt. Hood and Mount. St. Helens!

11. Voodoo Doughnut

“For a taste of Portland’s famous food scene, visit the numerous food carts and breweries,” says Rivelli. “But lastly, make sure to stop by Voodoo Doughnut for an iconic sweet treat!” This quirky donut shop is one of the city’s most unique, not to mention iconic, places. It’s famous for its creative donut flavors, including the “Captain My Captain,” a donut topped with vanilla frosting and Captain Crunch cereal, and the whimsical “Voodoo Doll,” a doughnut shaped like a voodoo doll filled with raspberry jelly, topped with chocolate frosting, and jabbed with a pretzel “pin.”  

Embrace your creative side in Portland

Portland’s come-as-you-are attitude attracts visitors from all over the world from all walks of life, and we’re confident you’ll fall in love with the city during your stay. You can find its spirit in every nook and cranny of the city, but it’s probably best represented by the people who call it home. We hope their suggestions have inspired you to come to the Pacific Northwest and explore the beauty of Portland!