17 Unique Things to Do in Portland You Won’t Want to Miss

Looking for the real Portland experience? Get ready to discover why this Pacific Northwest gem keeps drawing people in with its charm. From misty mornings at local coffee shops to late-night food cart adventures, Portland packs endless surprises into its walkable neighborhoods. No matter if you’re exploring various things to do in Portland, you’ll find that the city is brimming with unique activities and attractions.

Portland stands out as a city that dances to its own beat. Here, nature meets culture in the best possible way, offering the top activities in Portland that cater to all interests. You can hike through a forest in the morning and catch an indie band at night. Our food scene goes way beyond the famous Voodoo Doughnuts – though we’ll tell you why those are worth the wait too.

In this article, we’ll take you through 17 experiences that show off Portland’s true character. We’re talking about the spots where locals actually hang out, from hidden gardens to underground bookstores. You’ll discover why people say Portland is weird (in the best way), where to find the city’s best-kept secrets, and how to enjoy this special place like a true local.

No matter if you’re planning your first visit or you’ve been here a hundred times, these handpicked experiences will help you see Portland in a new light. From forest trails right in the city to cozy spots perfect for rainy days, we’ve gathered the experiences that make Portland uniquely Portland. 

#1 Visit Powell’s City of Books

Step into Powell’s City of Books and you’ll understand why people say you can get lost here for hours. Taking up an entire city block in Portland’s Pearl District, this book lover’s paradise isn’t just any bookstore – it’s the largest independent bookstore in the world.

What makes Powell’s special? Picture walking through room after room of books reaching from floor to ceiling. Unlike other bookstores, Powell’s mixes new and used books on the same shelves, so you might find a rare used copy right next to the latest edition. The best part? Used books mean better prices, and you never know what treasures you might discover.

Don’t worry about getting lost – each room is color-coded, and free maps at the entrance help you navigate the store’s nine rooms. The Green Room houses everything sci-fi and fantasy, while the Blue Room is where you’ll find literature and poetry. Looking for cookbooks? Head to the Orange Room.

Need a break from browsing? Scattered throughout the store are comfortable chairs and quiet corners where you can sit and sample your finds. There’s even a coffee shop on site when you need a caffeine boost. The rare book room upstairs feels like stepping into an old library, complete with glass cases protecting first editions and signed copies.

Pro tip: Check out the staff picks scattered throughout the store. Portland’s most passionate readers work here, and they know their stuff. Also, don’t miss the Portland room, which showcases local authors and books about the Pacific Northwest.

If you’re a fan of unique experiences and looking for things to do in Chattanooga or elsewhere, Powell’s is an example of a destination worth seeking out – a place where you can spend hours exploring and leave with something memorable.

#2 Discover the International Rose Test Garden

Right in the heart of Portland’s Washington Park sits a garden that earned our city the nickname “Rose City.” The International Rose Test Garden isn’t just any flower garden – it’s home to more than 10,000 rose bushes blooming in every color you can imagine.

The best time to visit is from late May through October, when the roses put on their biggest show. June is the peak season, when the garden bursts with colors and sweet smells. But even if you miss peak bloom, the garden offers some of the best views of downtown Portland and Mount Hood you’ll find anywhere in the city.

Walking through the garden feels like stepping into a painting. Row after row of roses spread across four levels, creating a natural staircase of flowers. Each section has its own personality – from modern hybrids to heritage roses that have grown here for decades. Look for the Shakespeare Garden, where roses are planted alongside herbs mentioned in the Bard’s plays.

Want to make the most of your visit? Come early in the morning to catch the sunrise lighting up the roses, or visit just before sunset when the evening light makes everything glow. Bring a camera – the combination of flowers, mountain views, and city skyline creates perfect photo opportunities.

The best part? It’s one of the top free things to do in Portland, allowing you to visit without any cost. You can spend hours wandering the paths, reading the name plates of different rose varieties, or just sitting on a bench taking in the views. There’s something magical about finding such a peaceful spot right in the middle of the city.

Get ready for fun in Santa Cruz – Read things to do in Santa Cruz for activities!

#3 Explore Forest Park

Right in Portland’s backyard sits Forest Park, offering some of the best outdoor activities in Portland as one of America’s largest urban forests. Imagine stepping off a city street and into 5,200 acres of pure Pacific Northwest wilderness. With over 80 miles of trails winding through towering Douglas firs and lush ferns, this natural treasure offers a true escape without leaving the city.

For first-time visitors, the Wildwood Trail is a perfect start. This 30-mile path serves as the park’s backbone, offering everything from quick nature walks to serious day hikes. Look for the blue diamond markers on trees to stay on track. Even a short walk will show you why locals love this trail – the dense canopy of trees creates a peaceful green tunnel that makes you forget you’re in a city.

Want something easier? Try Leif Erikson Drive. This wide, gentle path welcomes everyone from families with strollers to mountain bikers. It’s also great on rainy days since the gravel surface stays relatively dry.

For a real Portland adventure, take the Lower Macleay Trail to Pittock Mansion. This 5-mile round trip shows off everything that makes Forest Park special – a bubbling creek, moss-covered trees, and even a mysterious old stone building locals call the “Witch’s Castle.” At the top, you’ll find one of the best views of Portland and Mount Hood.

Keep your eyes open while hiking – Forest Park is alive with wildlife. Early morning visitors often spot deer grazing near the trails. Over 112 kinds of birds call the park home, and you might hear woodpeckers tapping or owls hooting. Lucky hikers sometimes spot coyotes or bobcats crossing the trails at dawn or dusk.

Remember to bring water and wear good shoes – even the easier trails can get muddy after rain. Pick up a free map at any trailhead to help plan your route through this amazing slice of nature in the city.

#4 Experience the Portland Saturday Market

If you’re searching for things to do in Portland this weekend, every weekend from March through December, Portland’s waterfront comes alive with one of the most unique shopping experiences in America. The Portland Saturday Market (which actually runs both Saturday and Sunday) turns the historic Old Town district into a bustling festival of local art, food, and music.

Picture walking through rows of colorful tents where over 250 local artists sell things you won’t find anywhere else. You might discover handmade jewelry that tells a story, pottery shaped by local hands, or artwork that captures Portland’s spirit. The best part? You can often watch artists at work and chat with them about their craft.

Your nose will lead you to the food section, where the hardest choice is deciding what to eat. Local food vendors serve up everything from classic Polish pierogi to fresh Thai food. Grab a snack and find a spot near the musicians who fill the air with live music – you might hear anything from jazz to folk to world beats.

This isn’t your typical tourist spot. While visitors love it, the Saturday Market is where Portland locals have been gathering since 1974. Kids get their faces painted while parents browse handmade clothing. Friends meet up for lunch and listen to street performers. Artists chat with customers about their work, and everyone soaks in the laid-back Portland vibe.

Want to make the most of your visit? Come hungry and bring cash (though most vendors now take cards). The market is busiest around lunch time, so if you want a quieter shopping experience, try early morning or late afternoon. Don’t forget to look for the famous Portland weather protection – covered areas keep the market running even when it rains.

The market sits right next to Waterfront Park, making it easy to combine your visit with a riverside walk or a stop at other Old Town attractions. You’ll find it at 2 SW Naito Parkway, open Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 11am to 4:30pm.

#5 Stroll Through the Japanese Garden

Hidden away in Washington Park sits what many call the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan. The Portland Japanese Garden offers a peaceful escape from city life, where every tree, stone, and pathway has been carefully placed to create moments of pure tranquility and to transport you to the serene beauty of Japan itself. If you’re planning a visit or inspired by things to do in Japan, this garden offers a slice of that experience right in Portland.

This 12-acre haven features eight different garden styles, each telling its own story. In the Tea Garden, a winding path leads to a traditional tea house where you might catch a ceremony in action. The Strolling Pond Garden draws you in with its elegant bridges and koi fish swimming lazily below. Don’t miss the Sand and Stone Garden, where carefully raked gravel creates patterns that look like rippling water.

The garden changes with each season, making it one of the best things to see in Portland and offering something special year-round. Spring brings cherry blossoms and bright azaleas. Summer fills the garden with deep greens and the sound of waterfalls. Fall transforms the maple trees into a canvas of reds and golds. Even winter has its own beauty, when snow dusts the carefully pruned pines.

Beyond just pretty views, the garden hosts events that bring Japanese culture to life. You might see artists demonstrating calligraphy, watch a traditional tea ceremony, or learn about bonsai care. The Umami Café offers traditional Japanese teas and snacks with a view of the city below.

For the best things to do in Portland for couples, visit early in the morning when the garden first opens. This is when you’ll find the most peace and quiet, perfect for taking in the garden’s subtle beauty. Bring a camera – the view of Mount Hood from the garden’s overlook is one of Portland’s best photo spots, making it one of the top romantic things to do in Portland.

Remember to speak quietly and stay on the paths – this garden is designed for peaceful reflection. Every element here, from the moss-covered stones to the carefully pruned trees, helps create a calm space where you can forget you’re in the middle of a busy city.

#6 Visit Multnomah Falls

Just 30 minutes from downtown Portland stands Multnomah Falls, a natural wonder that drops 620 feet from its highest point. This massive waterfall, the tallest in Oregon, draws visitors from around the world to marvel at its powerful beauty.

The main viewing area is easy to reach. A short paved path takes you to the historic Benson Bridge, where you can feel the spray from the falls and take in views that seem straight out of a postcard. The bridge sits perfectly between the upper and lower falls, giving you an up-close look at the rushing water.

Want more of an adventure? Take the trail that winds to the very top of the falls. This path climbs for just over a mile through several switchbacks, rewarding hikers with amazing views of the Columbia River Gorge. While steeper than the main path, regular breaks make it manageable for most people.

Spring brings the strongest water flow, making it the most spectacular time to visit. The falls remain impressive year-round though, with winter offering the unique sight of ice formations around the falling water.

To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning when the crowds are thin and the morning light makes everything sparkle. Keep in mind that from late May through early September, you’ll need a timed entry permit to park. Getting there early helps with parking and gives you the most peaceful experience of this natural marvel.

The historic lodge at the base of the falls offers a perfect spot to grab a meal or warm drink while enjoying the view, making it one of the top things to do near Portland waterfalls. Its massive windows frame the falls perfectly, letting you take in the scenery in comfort no matter what the weather brings.

#7 Take a Tour of the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

Right on the banks of the Willamette River sits the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), offering some of the best family-friendly activities in Portland where science comes alive. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) turns learning into an adventure that kids and adults both love. Instead of just reading about science, you get to touch it, test it, and see it in action.

Walk through the doors and you might hear the buzz of a Tesla coil or smell something interesting brewing in the chemistry lab. Every corner of OMSI holds something new to discover. Looking for engaging indoor activities in Portland? Want to control a robot? Build a bridge? Learn how earthquakes work? You can do it all here.

The science labs are where the real fun happens. Put on a lab coat and safety goggles to run your own experiments. Watch as everyday materials transform into something amazing during live demos. Staff scientists show you cool tricks and explain the science behind them in ways that make sense.

Space fans will love the planetarium shows where you can explore distant galaxies and learn about the night sky. The giant IMAX screen makes you feel like you’re diving deep in the ocean or soaring through space, with movies that change throughout the year.

For the youngest scientists, the Science Playground offers safe ways to explore. Kids can splash at water tables, build with blocks, and discover how things work at their own pace. Parents love that everything is designed to be both fun and educational.

The submarine is a crowd favorite – yes, a real submarine! The USS Blueback sits right outside OMSI, and guided tours let you see what life was like for submarine crews. It’s like stepping into a piece of history that also teaches you about science.

OMSI keeps things fresh with special events throughout the year. One day might feature robot battles, while another could bring local scientists to share their latest discoveries. During summer, science camps give kids a chance to dive deeper into topics they love.

Remember to check OMSI’s calendar before you visit. Some days offer extra activities like meet-a-scientist sessions or special demonstrations. The museum is busiest on rainy weekends, so weekday mornings are perfect for a quieter experience.

#8 Discover Hidden Gems at The Grotto

Tucked away in Northeast Portland sits The Grotto, one of the coveted hidden gems in Portland, offering a peaceful break from city life. This 62-acre sanctuary welcomes everyone to explore its beautiful gardens, peaceful chapel, and natural wonders.

At the heart of The Grotto stands a cave-like shrine carved into a towering cliff face. This natural cathedral holds a beautiful marble statue and sets the tone for the entire space. Around it, carefully tended gardens invite visitors to walk slowly and breathe deeply.

The lower gardens are open to all at no cost. Here you’ll find quiet paths winding through native plants and past gentle fountains. The sounds of the city fade away, replaced by birdsong and the soft splash of water features. Benches placed along the paths offer spots to sit and take in the peaceful surroundings.

An elevator built into the cliff takes visitors to the upper gardens. This area requires a small entrance fee but rewards visitors with sweeping views and more secluded paths. The upper section features small shrines, art installations, and seasonal flowers. You might spot roses blooming in summer or maple trees turning gold in fall.

The Grotto hosts special events throughout the year that bring the space to life in different ways. During December, the Festival of Lights transforms the gardens with thousands of twinkling lights. The chapel, with its perfect acoustics, often hosts concerts that fill the space with music.

Morning visits offer the most peaceful experience, when the gardens are quiet and the light filters softly through the trees. Photographers find endless inspiration here, from close-ups of dewdrops on flowers to wide shots of the Columbia River Valley visible from the upper gardens. The Grotto stays open year-round, though hours change with the seasons.

#9 Enjoy a Food Cart Tour

One of the fun things to do in Portland is to embark on a food cart tour, as Portland has turned lunch into an adventure with its famous food carts. These small kitchens on wheels serve some of the city’s best food, bringing flavors from around the world to Portland’s streets. Unlike regular food trucks, Portland’s carts group together in pods, creating open-air food courts where you can find dishes from dozens of countries in one spot.

Cartopia in Southeast Portland stands out as one of the city’s most loved food cart pods. Here you can grab wood-fired pizza straight from the oven, bite into Maine-style lobster rolls, or satisfy your sweet tooth with gourmet donuts. The pod comes alive at night when locals gather at picnic tables under strings of lights.

Just down the road, Hawthorne Asylum offers a different vibe with its unique industrial setting. Covered seating areas make it perfect for Portland’s rainy days. The pod serves everything from spicy Thai food to hearty vegan comfort dishes. Many visitors start with Korean BBQ tacos, a Portland cart favorite that wraps Korean-spiced meats in warm tortillas.

Downtown Portland fills with office workers at lunch, all heading to their favorite carts for quick, affordable meals. Fresh falafel wraps stuffed with crispy chickpea patties and colorful vegetables make a perfect lunch. The gourmet grilled cheese carts take this simple sandwich to new levels, using local cheeses and creative combinations.

New carts open often, bringing fresh ideas to Portland’s food scene. Some serve traditional family recipes passed down through generations, while others create new fusion dishes you won’t find anywhere else. Most carts stay open for lunch, but many pods now serve dinner too, with some staying open late into the night.

Remember to bring cash, though many carts now take cards. Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the longest lines, usually before noon or after 2 PM. Take time to walk around and look at all your options before choosing – you might find your new favorite food around any corner.

#10 Experience Voodoo Doughnut

Step into one of the premier Portland tourist spots, Voodoo Doughnut, and you’ll know right away this isn’t your average bakery. Voodoo Doughnut, with its bright pink walls and neon signs, has been serving up wild and wonderful creations since 2003. The shop never closes, feeding sweet cravings 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Walk through the doors and you’ll find doughnuts topped with everything from breakfast cereal to bacon. The Bacon Maple Bar leads the pack as their most famous creation – a maple frosted bar topped with real crispy bacon. The Voodoo Doll doughnut comes shaped like its namesake, filled with raspberry jelly, and stabbed with a pretzel stick.

The shop keeps more than 50 different kinds of doughnuts in rotation. Some play it straight with classics like glazed and chocolate, while others go wild with toppings like Fruit Loops, Oreo cookies, or Tang powder. They even make vegan doughnuts so everyone can join the fun.

Lines often stretch around the block, especially on weekends and during tourist season, making a visit to Voodoo Doughnut a popular choice among things to do in Portland at night. Smart visitors come early in the morning (before 8 AM) or late at night (after 10 PM) when the crowds thin out. Weekday mornings usually mean shorter waits too. If you’re in a hurry, you can order ahead through their website and skip the line.

The original downtown shop on SW 3rd Avenue draws the biggest crowds, but a second location on the east side tends to have shorter lines. Both shops take cash only, though there’s an ATM inside if you forget. The signature pink boxes make perfect souvenirs, and the doughnuts stay fresh for a day or two if you want to take some home.

Most people snap photos of their doughnuts before taking that first bite – it’s part of the Voodoo experience. The shop’s weird and wonderful atmosphere matches Portland’s “Keep Portland Weird” motto perfectly, making it more than just a place to grab breakfast.

#11 Walk Along Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Right along the Willamette River sits Portland’s favorite outdoor space – Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This 1.5-mile stretch of green space gives you perfect views of the river, bridges, and city skyline. Once a busy highway, the park now serves as a peaceful escape in the heart of downtown.

The wide paved path running through the park welcomes everyone. Joggers pace themselves alongside the water while families push strollers under the shade of cherry trees. Cyclists cruise by, taking in river views. You can rent bikes nearby if you want to join them on two wheels.

The park changes with the seasons. Spring brings pink cherry blossoms that draw photographers and picnickers. Summer fills the park with festivals – the Waterfront Blues Festival brings music lovers in July, while the Portland Rose Festival turns the park into a carnival in June. Fall paints the trees in warm colors, perfect for afternoon walks. Even winter has its charm, with views of moody skies over the river.

Green spaces dot the path, offering perfect spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy lunch with a view. Food carts often park nearby, making it easy to grab a bite. The park’s fountains add peaceful sounds to your visit, and plenty of benches let you sit and watch boats go by on the river.

Saturday Market sets up at the park’s north end from March through December. Here you can browse local art, try different foods, and listen to street musicians. The market brings extra life to the park, but there’s always something to see here – morning tai chi groups, afternoon dog walkers, and evening joggers make the park feel alive all day.

Kids love running through the Salmon Street Springs fountain on hot days. The fountain changes its spray patterns, sometimes shooting water high into the air, other times creating gentle streams perfect for splashing. Nearby, the Japanese American Historical Plaza tells important stories through quiet gardens and stone sculptures.

#12 Visit the Oregon Zoo

The Oregon Zoo stands as one of the top things to do in Portland with kids, spreading across 64 peaceful acres in Washington Park. Here, families can spend a whole day watching animals, riding the zoo train, and learning about wildlife from around the world.

Elephant Lands draws visitors to its six-acre habitat where Asian elephants show off their playful side. Watch them splash in pools, toss around giant toys, or grab snacks with their powerful trunks. These gentle giants often put on quite a show for visitors, especially during morning feeding times.

Kids light up at the Family Farm, where they can pet friendly goats and see rabbits hop around their enclosures. The farm gives children a chance to learn about animals they might find closer to home, making connections between wildlife and their everyday lives.

The zoo train ranks as a must-do activity for most families. This 20-minute ride circles the entire zoo, giving tired feet a rest while offering unique views of many animal areas. Near the train station, a beautiful vintage carousel spins with hand-painted animals that charm both young and old riders.

Special events fill the zoo’s calendar throughout the year. Winter nights sparkle during ZooLights, when more than a million colorful lights transform the paths into a glowing wonderland. Summer evenings come alive with concerts where families spread blankets on the lawn and enjoy music under the stars.

The zoo makes learning fun with keeper talks and feeding demonstrations happening daily. Visitors can watch sea otters crack open shells, see polar bears dive for toys, or catch penguins zooming through their crystal-clear pool. Every exhibit teaches something new about animals and how we can help protect them in the wild.

Morning visits often catch animals at their most active, especially on warm days. The zoo offers plenty of indoor spaces too, making it a great choice even when Portland rain shows up. Food carts and cafes dot the grounds, but many families bring picnics to enjoy at tables scattered throughout the zoo.

#13 Check Out Local Breweries

Portland earned its nickname “Beervana” by brewing some of the world’s most creative beers. With over 70 breweries in the city, you’ll find everything from classic lagers to wild experimental brews that push the boundaries of beer making.

ForeLand Beer on SE Belmont Street welcomes visitors into what feels like a cozy living room with windows that peek into the brewery. Their brewers love playing with local ingredients, crafting beers that taste like Portland itself. Try their seasonal fruit beers made with Oregon berries or their coffee stouts using beans from nearby roasters.

Over on Hawthorne Boulevard, TPK Brewing Co. turns heads with their creative approach to traditional styles. The taproom buzzes with energy as friends gather around long tables to share tasting flights. Their menu changes often, but you might catch their famous hazy IPAs or their rich chocolate porter.

Little Beast Brewing brings something special to SE Division Street. Their charming beer garden, set in an old Victorian house, feels like a secret garden where you can sip unique wood-aged beers. The brewery pairs their complex beers with small plates of local cheese and charcuterie, perfect for sharing.

For the best experience, start your brewery visits in the afternoon when taprooms are less crowded. Most places offer tasting flights – small glasses of different beers that let you try several styles without drinking too much. Many breweries also serve food or welcome food orders from nearby restaurants.

Tours give you a behind-the-scenes look at how beer is made. Brewers love sharing their craft, explaining how they choose ingredients and create new flavors. While some tours need booking ahead, others welcome walk-ins. Visit brewery websites to check their schedules and special events like new beer releases or brewer meet-and-greets.

In the evening, Portland’s breweries come alive with locals stopping in after work. Food trucks often park outside, creating perfect dinner spots. Remember that most places welcome families earlier in the day, but turn 21-and-over as night falls.

#14 Discover Street Art on Alberta Street

Alberta Street stands out as Portland’s most colorful neighborhood, where art spills from gallery walls onto the streets themselves. This lively stretch in Northeast Portland shows off the city’s creative spirit in every painted wall, gallery window, and street corner.

Massive murals transform ordinary buildings into stunning works of art. A walk down Alberta reveals paintings that cover entire walls, telling stories of the neighborhood’s past and present. Artists use the street as their canvas, adding splashes of color to everything from shop fronts to electrical boxes. Each piece shares something about Portland’s soul, whether it’s celebrating local heroes or capturing the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

The Alberta Street Gallery welcomes visitors into a space filled with works from over thirty local artists. Inside, you’ll find paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and crafts that showcase Portland’s artistic talent. Just down the street, Antler Gallery draws crowds with its nature-inspired artwork and rotating shows that bring fresh perspectives each month.

On the last Thursday of every month, Alberta Street transforms into a giant art party. Galleries stay open late into the evening, while artists set up displays right on the sidewalks. Musicians fill the air with live music, and food carts line the streets. This monthly celebration has grown from a small neighborhood gathering into one of Portland’s most beloved art events.

Between the galleries, local shops add their own artistic touch to the street. Boutiques display handmade clothes in creative window setups, while cafes serve coffee alongside local artwork. Even the restaurants join in, with many featuring murals on their walls and local artists’ work in their dining rooms.

#15 Attend a Live Music Event

Portland fills with music every night as venues across the city open their doors to music lovers. From cozy jazz clubs to packed rock shows, the city offers live music that fits any mood or style.

The Doug Fir Lounge stands out with its modern log cabin look, complete with wood-paneled walls and warm lighting. Located on East Burnside Street, this spot hosts everything from solo singers to full bands. The sound system makes every note clear, and the close-up stage lets you see musicians up close. Shows happen almost every night, with local Portland bands often sharing the stage with touring artists.

Mississippi Studios started small but grew into one of Portland’s most trusted music venues. The building used to be a church, and that history gives the space perfect acoustics. Musicians love playing here because the sound is so good, and fans love it because they can get close to the stage. The connected bar serves food and drinks, making it easy to spend a whole evening here.

The Crystal Ballroom brings history to life with its famous “floating” dance floor that moves with the crowd. This hundred-year-old venue still hosts some of Portland’s biggest shows. The ballroom’s three levels give everyone a good view, and the wrap-around balcony offers a perfect spot to watch both the band and the dancing crowd below.

Portland welcomes several music festivals each year. Pickathon takes over Happy Valley each August, turning a farm into a music wonderland. Unlike big city festivals, Pickathon keeps things relaxed and friendly. Musicians play multiple shows on different stages, and fans can camp right at the festival.

The Portland Jazz Festival brightens February with two weeks of concerts all over town. World-famous jazz players perform in theaters and clubs, while local musicians join in at smaller venues. Many shows include talks where musicians share stories about jazz history and their own musical journeys.

Many venues offer free shows during weeknights, and summer fills Portland’s parks with free concerts. Local bands play at places like Laurelhurst Park and Peninsula Park, where families and friends gather with picnics to enjoy music under the trees. These shows help new bands find their audience while giving everyone a chance to enjoy live music.

#16 Visit Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

In southeast Portland, Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden creates a peaceful escape filled with colorful flowers and quiet paths. This 9-acre garden holds more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and other plants that bloom in waves throughout the year.

Spring brings the most dramatic show, as thousands of rhododendrons burst into bloom from April to June. Pink, purple, red, and white flowers cover the bushes, creating natural walls of color along the paths. Early visitors might catch morning fog drifting through the flowers, making the garden feel magical.

The garden stays beautiful even when the big flowers aren’t blooming. Three waterfalls and two lakes add peaceful sounds to your walk. Ducks and geese often swim in the crystal-clear water, and many birds visit the garden throughout the year. Bring your camera – the bridges and water features make perfect photo spots.

Small paths wind through the garden, taking you past rare plants and quiet benches where you can sit and enjoy the views. The garden is built on different levels, with steps and gentle slopes that create hidden corners to explore. Signs help you learn about the different plants you see.

The garden welcomes visitors every day. Morning visits often offer the most peaceful experience, while afternoon light makes the flowers glow. Spring weekends can get busy during peak bloom, but the garden is large enough that you can always find a quiet spot.

Admission costs just a few dollars, making this one of Portland’s best values for outdoor activities. The garden is easy to reach by car or bus, and parking is free. Remember to bring a water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes – you’ll want to explore every path.

#17 Check Out Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Among the unique things to do in Portland, Ground Kontrol lights up downtown with the glow of classic arcade games. This two-story arcade brings back the excitement of gaming’s golden age, with over 100 games from the 1970s through the 1990s.

The first floor fills with the familiar sounds of pinball machines and classic games. Pac-Man chases ghosts while Mario jumps barrels in Donkey Kong. Each game costs just a quarter or two, just like in the old days. The machines line up in rows, their screens glowing with invitation to play.

Upstairs, fighting games and racing cabinets let players compete head-to-head. Popular games like Street Fighter II and Mortal Kombat draw crowds of friendly competitors. Comfortable seats at the racing games let you settle in for long gaming sessions.

The arcade serves food and local beers, making it a perfect spot for adults to spend an evening. After 5 PM, Ground Kontrol becomes a 21-and-over venue, though families are welcome during daytime hours. The bar area offers a great view of the gaming action below.

Special events happen throughout the week. Monday nights feature pinball tournaments where players compete for high scores. Other nights might have video game competitions or themed parties celebrating specific games or eras.

The building itself adds to the experience with its neon lights and retro design. Black lights make everything glow, and the music mix of video game themes and classic rock creates the perfect gaming atmosphere. Even the bathrooms continue the theme with Pac-Man tiles and Space Invaders décor.

Where Every Visit Brings New Discoveries

Portland welcomes everyone with open arms and endless possibilities. In this section , we’ve explored 17 amazing experiences that show why our city stands out. No matter you love nature, food, art, or music, Portland has something special waiting for you.

Nature shows its best side at the International Rose Test Garden and Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, making them some of the best places to visit in Portland, where flowers paint colorful scenes year-round. Forest Park offers 80 miles of trails right in the city, while Multnomah Falls reminds us of Oregon’s natural power and beauty, standing as one of the must-see Portland landmarks.

Portland’s creative spirit lives in places like the Saturday Market, where local artists share their work, and Powell’s Books, where stories fill an entire city block. Music brings life to historic venues like the Crystal Ballroom and Doug Fir Lounge, while Ground Kontrol Arcade keeps classic gaming fun alive.

Our food scene tells Portland’s story through creative donuts at Voodoo Doughnut, world-class food carts, and craft breweries making unique beers. Art appears everywhere – in Alberta Street’s murals, Pearl District galleries, and the Portland Art Museum’s halls.

These 17 spots show what makes Portland special, but they’re just the beginning. Each street corner might lead to your next favorite place, each neighborhood holds its own surprises. That’s the magic of Portland – no matter how long you stay, there’s always something new to discover. If you’re searching for engaging things to do in Portland, come explore our city, where everyday adventures turn into lasting memories.

FAQs about Things to Do in Portland

Planning your Portland adventure? Here are answers to common questions about exploring our city, from family fun to hidden gems and outdoor adventures.