What Are the Best Things to Do in Portland Oregon This Weekend?

Portland, Oregon, is a dynamic city famous for its distinctive culture, lovely parks, and creative flair. There are a number of must-see sights that perfectly capture the spirit of this amazing city, regardless of how long you want to stay. It's no surprise that Portland has emerged as a popular travel destination across the world.

Portland, Oregon, offers a special blend of culture and nature, much like Portland, Maine, which has a charming coastal feel. And if you appreciate historic charm, you'll love exploring Portland's art districts, farmers' markets, and historic neighbourhoods, which are similar to the attractions in Charleston, SC.

What are the best things to do in Portland Oregon? Read below to explore the various ways one can experience and enjoy Oregon.

Best Things to Do In Portland Oregon

The hardest part of staying busy in Central Oregon isn't finding things to do, but instead figuring out how to fit everything into one trip, due to the region's four seasons of outdoor fun, expansive shopping malls, imaginative craft beverage producers, and inventive businesses.

Here is our comprehensive list of things to do in Central Oregon, regardless of where you are in the area and what fascinates you.

1. Explore the sprawling and iconic Powell's City of Books.
2. Wander through the serene and beautiful Portland Japanese Garden.
3. Visit the International Rose Test Garden and enjoy views of the city.
4. Browse for unique art and crafts at the Portland Saturday Market.
5. Spend an afternoon eating your way through the famous food cart pods.
6. Hike the scenic trails and enjoy the nature at Forest Park.
7. Take a short drive to see the breathtaking Multnomah Falls.
8. Walk around the lively Pearl District to see art galleries and shops.
9. Visit Voodoo Doughnut for a unique and eclectic experience.
10. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI).

Fun Things to Do In Portland Oregon

Portland is a place where nature is incorporated into the city, craft beer is popular, and the unusual is cool. It is more than what the TV shows represent it to be. In addition to Portland's number of sights and activities, we believe you'll particularly enjoy the city's ambiance.

Here is the definitive list of fun things to do in Portland, Oregon, including both must-see attractions and undiscovered treasures.

1. Play classic arcade games at the Ground Kontrol arcade bar.
2. Take a tour of the spooky and historical Shanghai Tunnels.
3. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon roller skating at Oaks Amusement Park.
4. Go on a scavenger hunt to find the world's smallest park, Mill Ends Park.
5. Snap a photo in front of the classic "Keep Portland Weird" mural.
6. Visit the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium for a look at oddities and strange art.
7. Explore the unique shops and street art in the Alberta Arts District.
8. Hike the trails in Forest Park to find the mysterious Witch's Castle ruins.
9. Climb to the top of an extinct volcano at Mount Tabor Park for city views.
10. Take a fun guided tour to find Portland's best coffee and doughnut shops.

Things to Do in Portland Oregon tonight

Portland nightlife is more than just going out to clubs. After hours, Portland comes alive with open mic nights all around the city, globally recognized karaoke venues, mouthwatering late-night food, adult-friendly gaming establishments, and lots of fun without alcohol.

This is your guide to taking advantage of everything Portland has to offer after dark, whether you're travelling from Seattle or travelling from all over the world.

1. Catch a live show at an iconic music venue like the Crystal Ballroom.
2. Enjoy a late-night meal at a popular spot like Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen.
3. Have a unique experience with an 'After Dark' event at OMSI.
4. Explore the spooky history of the city on a Haunted Shanghai Tunnel Tour.
5. Dance to '80s music at Lola's Room's '80s Video Dance Attack.
6. Grab a slice of pizza from a late-night favorite like Sizzle Pie.
7. Go bar hopping and discover a unique craft cocktail lounge.
8. Laugh the night away at a stand-up show at the Helium Comedy Club.
9. Visit a themed venue like the McMenamins Kennedy School for a movie and a drink.
10. Try a variety of whiskeys and cocktails at the Multnomah Whiskey Library.

Indoor Things to Do In Portland Oregon

Although Portland is recognized for being a great place to go outside, it's also a terrific place to go inside, whether you're looking to cool off on a hot summer day or escape the rain. To keep yourself busy during the rainy season, consider coming up with creative indoor activities, as you probably won't be leaving town every time it rains. 

I'm here to help; let's talk about how to make the most of a rainy day in Portland.

1. Delve into the city's past at the Oregon Historical Society Museum.
2. Race against friends at the Sykart Indoor Racing Center.
3. Experience immersive art installations at Hopscotch Portland.
4. Solve puzzles and escape rooms at Escape Games PDX.
5. Discover the unique world of puppetry at the Portland Puppet Museum.
6. Learn about sustainable forestry at the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum.
7. See vintage steam locomotives at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center.
8. Play a round of glow-in-the-dark mini-golf at Glowing Greens.
9. Challenge a friend to a game of indoor pickleball at The People's Courts.
10. Catch a movie and a bite to eat at a historic theater like the Laurelhurst.

Fun Family Things to Do In Portland Oregon

Planning a trip to Portland with your family? The City of Roses offers a fantastic blend of kid-friendly attractions, outdoor activities, and educational experiences, making it an ideal destination for both natives seeking new experiences and first-time visitors. With its numerous engaging interactive museums and tranquil green areas, Portland offers plenty of activities to keep kids busy for a long time.

This guide will assist you in identifying the ideal activities to create lasting memories with your children. Let's get started!

1. Explore the hands-on exhibits at the Portland Children's Museum.
2. Take a ride on a vintage steam locomotive at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center.
3. Take a thrilling ride on the roller coaster at the historic Oaks Amusement Park.
4. Let the kids run wild at the massive indoor play space at PlayDate PDX.
5. Ride the scenic Portland Streetcar for a unique view of the city.
6. Spend an afternoon on a fun and educational tour at the Audubon Society of Portland.
7. Hike the beautiful trails and see the amazing views at The Grotto.
8. Spend a fun afternoon picking your own berries at a local u-pick farm.
9. Visit the Oregon Zoo during the holidays for their famous ZooLights display.
10. Walk the beautiful grounds and ride the miniature train at the Oregon Garden.

Free Things to Do In Portland Oregon

Travelling to Portland doesn't have to break the bank. Portland offers plenty of free events and festivals all year long, in addition to free attractions and things to see and do around the city. As they say, the best things in life are free. You can learn something new, connect with nature, or find local artists without having to pay a dollar.

I'm going to give you a list of the most affordable and unusual activities to do in Portland, Oregon. I hope you enjoy.

1. Stroll through Tom McCall Waterfront Park and enjoy the river views.
2. Hike the free trails and see the diverse trees at Hoyt Arboretum.
3. Take a photo with the world's smallest park, Mill Ends Park.
4. Enjoy the incredible views of the city from the free grounds of Pittock Mansion.
5. Drive out to see the magnificent Multnomah Falls in the Columbia River Gorge.
6. Explore the street art and unique shops along Alberta Street.
7. Visit the lower-level sanctuary and grotto, which is free to the public.
8. Walk or bike across the iconic and beautiful St. Johns Bridge.
9. Hike up Mount Tabor, an extinct volcano, for city panoramas.
10. Go for a walk and enjoy the art and architecture of the Pearl District.

Read More: What are some Best Things to Do In New Orleans?

Things to do in Portland Oregon For Couples

The location, activity, and tempo of a date may establish or break the bond, making it feel like a finely choreographed dance. However, what if you and your partner have been dating for ages, or if this is your tenth date of the season? Explore these romantic date ideas in Portland, including romantic dining establishments and woodland walks that lead to a tree museum.

1. Enjoy a romantic dinner at a renowned restaurant in the Pearl District.
2. Go on a wine tasting adventure together in the nearby Willamette Valley.
3. Go for a scenic hike and a picnic at the beautiful Hoyt Arboretum.
4. Spend a quiet afternoon wandering through the tranquil Portland Japanese Garden.
5. Catch a fun stand-up comedy show for a memorable date night.
6. Enjoy a relaxing evening with a couple's massage or a visit to a day spa.
7. Take a romantic paddleboarding or kayaking trip on the Willamette River.
8. Find a hidden speakeasy for a unique and intimate cocktail experience.
9. Drive out to the Columbia River Gorge for a romantic day trip to see the falls.
10. Walk along the waterfront at sunset for a simple and beautiful evening together.

Have you visited Portland Oregano before? Tell us your favorite spot from our things to do in Portland Oregon list!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is it a nice place for nature lovers to visit Portland, Oregon?

Yes, Portland is a nature lover's delight since it provides quick access to beautiful locations like Forest Park, the Columbia River Gorge, and Mount Hood.

Q. What time of year is ideal for travelling to Portland, Oregon?

With nice weather, flowering gardens, and lots of outdoor festivities, late spring to early autumn is the best time to visit.

Q. Is it possible to travel around Portland, Oregon without a car?

Yes, Portland boasts bike rentals, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a first-rate public transportation system.