Location: Portland
Top Things to do in Portland
- 1. Washington Park
- 2. Portland Center Stage at The Armory
- 3. Forest Park
- 4. Willamette Valley
- 5. Travel Portland Visitor Information Center
- 6. The Grotto - National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother
- 7. International Rose Test Garden
- 8. Hoyt Arboretum
- 9. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
- 10. Metropolitan Area Express (MAX)
Countries
Top 10 Things to do in Portland, United States
You’ll wonder why you don’t live in Portland after you’ve visited this laid-back and friendly city. With a reputation for manicured parks, eclectic nightlife, fine micro-breweries and distilleries, and nature that cuts right into the city, Portland’s a Pacific Northwest must-visit. Don’t miss the famous Japanese Garden, one of the largest and most beautiful of its kind outside of Japan.
Restaurants in Portland
1. Washington Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
This popular park offers miles of trails, an extensive rose garden, a large Japanese garden and a zoo. For information on free shuttles, attraction admission hours and pricing within the park, and maps, visit our website.
Reviewed By Amanda L
The park itself is located about a ten minute drive out of the city up a hill. Many of the major attractions are located here such as Oregon Zoo, The International Rose Test Garden, the famed Japanese Gardens, the World Forest Center, the Children's Museum, and the Mansion. Make sure to take a look at the view of the city below. Even though we visited during the winter, the weather was mild and there was plenty to see and do.
2. Portland Center Stage at The Armory
Overall Ratings
5 based on 152 reviews
Portland Center Stage at The Armory is the largest theater company in Portland that produces fully professional theatrical production for the community, and is one of the 20 largest regional theater companies in the United States. There are two theaters located inside The Armory: the 590-seat U.S. Bank Main Stage and the 190-seat Ellyn Bye Studio. Established in 1988 as an offshoot of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the company became independent in 1994. An estimated 150,000 visitors attend The Armory annually to enjoy a mix of classical, contemporary and world premiere productions, along with the annual JAW: A Playwrights Festival, and a variety of high quality education and community programs. Eleven productions are offered each season, in addition to roughly 400 community events. The Armory was the first building on the National Register of Historic Places — and the first performing arts venue in the country — to achieve a LEED Platinum rating.
Reviewed By localCOASTAL - Seaside, Oregon
The architecture is impressive, but what is impressive on any stage is its use. The set design was excellent for the production of Fun Home.
3. Forest Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 633 reviews
The largest urban park in the county, lined with trails for hiking and biking.
Reviewed By _jakevanwinkle - Portland, Oregon
A great place to hike just minutes from downtown. Wildwood and dogwood trails are great for beginners. We use the alltrails phone app to navigate the twisty, intersecting trails and have loved going out for walks with the dog on most weekends.
4. Willamette Valley
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 734 reviews
Best known for its diverse agriculture, this verdant valley is flanked by the Coast Range and the Cascades.
Reviewed By Kauai-Biz-Traveler - Riverside, California
This is a wonderful place to spend a day just driving to enjoy the scenery and nature. You don't even need a plan. Just go. There are so many farms and wildlife you're sure to take hundreds of pictures.
5. Travel Portland Visitor Information Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 114 reviews
At the Travel Portland Visitor Information Center you'll find brochures, maps and expert advice for your stay in the greater Portland region - all in the heart of downtown at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Within easy walking distance of downtown hotels and served by MAX light rail, the square also houses TriMet, where you can buy transit tickets. HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Sunday (May-October only) 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Reviewed By jtanda17 - Wichita, Kansas
When traveling, we always find it advantageous to stop at the visitor information center when we arrive in a new city and Portland's visitor center didn't disappoint. The center appears to be staffed with volunteers who are knowledgeable about the area and great ambassadors for Portland. Dick assisted us and provided local highlights as well as a printed information sheet of his personal restaurant and attraction recommendations. The downtown Portland map is an invaluable resource and the center offers a wealth of publications on local and Oregon attractions. The center is well worth a stop.
6. The Grotto - National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
An internationally renowned Catholic sanctuary set among 62 acres of botanical gardens, offering a place of peace and quiet reflection for all people. More than 100 beautiful statues,reflection ponds, and views offer inspiration to all who visit.
Reviewed By Jaime M
We came here on a rainy day (shocking, I know), but were pleasantly surprised by all the beauty. There are trails to walk with some tree cover and lots of statues and neat areas to see. Make sure you go to the visitors center and pay the $6 to see the upper garden. We had such spectacular views from the meditation chapel and the garden is very peaceful and beautiful. Parking is free and you can definitely spend a couple hours here.
7. International Rose Test Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
The oldest official, continuously operated public rose test garden in the United States boasts more than 8,000 roses.
Reviewed By Linda C - Moorpark, California
I called first to find out if the roses were still in bloom in late September and was told, "Oh, yes." And indeed they were; furthermore, they were absolutely glorious. The online photos didn't do them justice, plus in person the aroma of thousands of blooming roses is absolutely intoxicating. It's a beautiful must see stop when in Portland, especially when they're in bloom. Don't not miss the wonderful little gift shop too.
8. Hoyt Arboretum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 264 reviews
A popular destination for nature lovers, this arboretum contains many different species of trees.
Reviewed By Steve S - Palm Springs, California, United States
Go to the visitor's center to get great information and hiking recommendations. Lots of free parking options. Many wonderful trails and connections to Washington Park and Forest Park. This is a wonderful place to roam around, hike and jog.
9. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 359 reviews
In the summer months, this peaceful park comes alive with brightly colored rhododendrons.
Reviewed By Patrick C
This park is an amazing urban garden. It's full of lovely ponds, flowers and trails that are beautifully maintained.
The garden isn't in the super hectic neighborhood but Crystal Springs is a restful urban oasis. It's a fantastic option if you're looking for a place to take a peaceful walk and catch you breath-both physically and spiritually.
10. Metropolitan Area Express (MAX)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 826 reviews
Reviewed By SunSeekerMA - Boston, Massachusetts
I recently was traveling on business from the airport to downtown Portland and found the train a super way to avoid traffic. Even though I could have gone via any mode of transport this seemed like a good thing to try and it worked out well. $2.50. The only bummer is they don't take Discover cards right now - something with the card reader.
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