THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Portland (Updated 2024)
Things to do in Portland

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Portland

Things to Do in Portland

Exploring Portland's Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden are traveller faves. For a walk on the wild side, head to Forest Park or Columbia River Gorge.

Book these experiences for a close-up look at Portland.

From quick jaunts to full-day outings.

Top Attractions in Portland

These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

Lush rose garden with a variety of award-winning blooms and educational labels. Features pet-friendly paths and a charming gift shop with themed items.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Verdant sanctuary featuring rose and Japanese gardens, along with poignant memorials and playgrounds. Trails and statues contribute to the serene atmosphere.
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Tranquil Chinese garden in an urban neighborhood featuring traditional architecture, calming ponds, and a tea house serving authentic refreshments. Ideal for relaxation and cultural exploration.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Historic mansion set amidst scenic grounds, displaying period furnishings and significant family history. Features self-guided tours, panoramic city views, and accessible hiking trails.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Tranquil gardens with observation deck, statues, and labyrinth for contemplation. Includes a gift shop with spiritual items and seasonal outdoor Mass events.
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Zoo with spacious enclosures, diverse species, and emphasis on conservation. Enjoyable tram rides, a scenic rose garden, and a notable elephant habitat. Focus on educational experiences.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travellers are saying

  • Deemster
    San Francisco, CA25 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    One of the most wonderful experiences we had in Portland . But at the ticket booth the stuff could help elderly to offer shuttle to the top, otherwise we had to climb there ourselves and learn about shuttle going down. Delightful garden!
    Written June 2, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • CarolinaTravelers2
    Ponte Vedra Beach, FL340 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Plenty of roses are blooming at the beginning of June, so visitors can see (and smell) buds and flowers in every stage of blossom. While rose aficionados will enjoy learning details and exploring the entire garden, the casual visitor will enjoy roses near the entrance. We did have to go down some steps from the street to the garden; handrails are present.
    Written June 5, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BrakiWorldTraveler
    Belgrade, Serbia18,465 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Washington park is located on a small hill in the western suburbs of Portland. Its elevated position offers some nice viewpoints over downtown, but there're many things to do as well: Japanese gardens (paying), Rose gardens (free), Holocaust memorial, many walking and cycling paths, etc...
    Parking could be difficult to find, specially on a nice sunny day and it's paying. Beware of leaving valuables visible in your car, there're many warning signs of car robbery.
    Written May 31, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • kisssmee
    Los Angeles, CA778 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    What a nice serene place smack dab in the middle of Downtown. It's street parking and thankfully it wasn't terribly difficult to find a spot.

    The front gate is locked and you will be buzzed in. You pay your fee at the ticket booth. You explore the grounds and enjoy the greenery and ambiance of it all. Unfortunately, when I visited there was scaffolding so it was a little bit of an eyesore. The brighter side, it just means I have to come back again to fully enjoy the beauty of the place. There is a small body of water in the middle and beautifully decorated architecture around.
    Written February 22, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BrakiWorldTraveler
    Belgrade, Serbia18,465 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Driving from the west, from the Oregon coast during our 8 day Pacific NW tour, this mansion was our first stop in Portland.
    It's set on a hill above Portland, in the western suburbs. Fair size paying parking lot onsite.
    I would suggest this to be your first stop in Portland also, as it gives you a good introduction to Oregon's biggest city in two ways.
    First, you'll learn it was the Pittocks who turned this place from a small muddy village into a booming metropolis.
    Second, from the mansion grounds - park around the house, there's the best Portland viewpoint - you'll have the entire city beneath you.
    Touring the house is paying and you can easily skip it. Nothing unseen (specially if you're coming from Europe) and I doubt the authenticity from early 20c.
    Walking the grounds is totally free along with the viewpoint, gardens, etc...
    Written May 31, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BrakiWorldTraveler
    Belgrade, Serbia18,465 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Grotto is located in eastern Portland, close to the airport. Big free parking lot within the premises.
    The whole complex consists of two parts - lower and upper. Lower part is free, the upper paying.
    The main star - Pieta in the Grotto is in the lower part and looks majestic. Also, in the lower part is the Way of the Cross - beautiful path through the woods, as well the Cathedral and visitor center.
    Kind lady at the visitor center played a movie for only two of us explaining the Sanctuary history, which was interesting and informing. Here you can buy big dedicated candles to light them by Pieta.
    The upper part is reachable via elevator and consists mostly of international shrines.
    Our visit was very spiritual and interesting and took us slightly over an hour, highly recommend.
    Written May 31, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Thomas V
    Oakland, CA16,368 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Some extraordinarily beautiful countryside in this agricultural valley noted for excellent wines. We stopped at one simple winery for a good tasting and noted that there were several guest houses nearby. Close to the city.
    Written March 29, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Susan T
    Vancouver, WA20 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This zoo is a gorgeous walk through lush forest and spacious animal habitats. Excellent viewing opportunities with animal bedding and activities closely. Animals appear content, healthy, and relaxed with gorgeous coat colors. Favorites include Polar Bears swimming, otter entertainment, big cats. Aviary warm and walkable. Delicious hot cider at the Aviary Cafe.
    Written March 30, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • KACB
    Texas54 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We walked the Holly Loop, and it was a nice leisurely walk with so much beautiful scenery to stop and look at. We can’t wait until we can come back and check out the other trails. There is a small gift shop in the visitor center where we purchased a few postcards.
    Written September 15, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • KarenAzinger
    Portland143 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    If you like dinosaurs, don't miss the T-Rex exhibit at OMSI! A fun and interesting exhibit for dinosaur lovers of all ages, kids and adults alike! And while you are there, don't miss out on the tour of the submarine! The submarine experience is excellent!
    Written April 11, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Andrew T
    289 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is an incredibly beautiful forest to walk around in. If you have the time you can easily spend the whole day there. Lots of undulation so if that’s a difficulty walking need to be considerate of that. But the walking trails are really well paved. Overall rating 9.7
    Written October 16, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Thomas V
    Oakland, CA16,368 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is the cool part of town and we kept coming back here on our city visit. Lots of places to eat here, emphasis on breweries, craft beer. Some pleasant architecture, lots of good shopping. And lots of coffee.
    Written March 30, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above hotel descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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