43 EPIC Things to Do in Portland, Oregon

Portland is an adventurous city, offering everything from ghost tours to outdoor escapes. Here’s a quick list of some of the best things to do, whether you’re staying local or looking for a fun day trip.

Table of Contents

1. Admire Waterfront Views at Tom McCall Waterfront Park
2. Peruse the Goods at Portland’s Saturday Market
3. Take a Walk Through Marquam Nature Park
4. Bike Around Downtown Portland
5. Paddle Down the Willamette River
6. Find Your Next Read at Powell’s City of Books
7. Explore Washington Park
8. Hike to Pittock Mansion and the Witch’s Castle
9. People Watch at Pioneer Courthouse Square
10. Walk Out to Elk Rock Island
11. Snap a Photo of the Keep Portland Weird Sign
12. Hike the Trails at Forest Park
13. Take a Ghost Tour of Portland
14. Ride the Portland Aerial Tram
15. Keep Read More About What to Do in Portland!

1. Admire Waterfront Views at Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Water feature at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in Portland

This park offers a great mix of nature and city life. Stroll along the riverfront and enjoy views of the Willamette River. Don’t miss the Japanese American Historical Plaza and the Portland Oregon White Stag Sign. Visit in fall for amazing foliage colors!

2. Peruse the Goods at Portland’s Saturday Market

Portland Market on a nice day with some green and yellow trees and white tents with vendors.

Portland’s Saturday Market is one of the largest outdoor markets in the U.S. Browse hand-crafted goods, jewelry, and delicious food stalls. It’s a must-do if you’re in town on a weekend!

3. Take a Walk Through Marquam Nature Park

Path through dense forest in Marquam Nature Park

Looking for a hike close to downtown? Marquam Nature Park offers miles of trails, including a beautiful 7-mile route through the forest. Some trails are paved, making it accessible for everyone.

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READ MORE: Marquam Nature Park in Portland

4. Bike Around Downtown Portland

Biking through downtown on Portland Oregon tours

Portland is super bike-friendly! Ride the Willamette River Loop for a scenic, easy ride through downtown. For a more artistic experience, try the Foster-Powell Art of Foster Ride, where you can spot street murals along the way.

READ MORE: Downtown Portland Bike Tour

5. Paddle Down the Willamette River

Kayakers at Willamette Park one of the best parks in Portland

Rent a kayak and explore Portland from the water. The Willamette River offers stunning city views and the chance to spot local wildlife like bald eagles and herons. Head to Scappoose Bay for a quieter paddle.

6. Find Your Next Read at Powell’s City of Books

Mostly white books on shelves in a book store with a ladder leaning against the shelf.

Powell’s City of Books is a must for any book lover. With over 1 million books across four floors, it’s the world’s largest independent bookstore. Grab a map or just wander the aisles. You’ll get lost in the best way possible!

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7. Explore Washington Park

Koi pond in the Japanese Garden of Washington Park

Washington Park is packed with things to do. Visit the Japanese Garden, rose garden, or check out the World Forestry Center. It’s a perfect spot for both relaxing and learning more about nature and local history.

READ MORE: Guide to Washington Park

8. Hike to Pittock Mansion and the Witch’s Castle

Pittock Mansion at Forest Park best parks in Portland

Take the 5-mile hike through Macleay Park, leading to the historic Pittock Mansion with great views of the city. Along the way, check out the moss-covered “Witch’s Castle,” an old restroom with a spooky vibe!

9. People Watch at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Pioneer Square in Portland at dusk with people moving about.

Known as Portland’s living room, this lively square hosts over 300 events a year. Grab some food from the nearby stalls and soak in the atmosphere, whether there’s an event or not. It’s a perfect spot for people watching!

10. Walk Out to Elk Rock Island

Water view at Elk Rock Island Park in Portland

Elk Rock Island is a cool spot in the Willamette River that you can reach at low tide. Hike around, spot wildlife, and experience this unique, ancient island that’s 40 million years old.

11. Snap a Photo of the Keep Portland Weird Sign

The “Keep Portland Weird” sign behind Dante’s Nightclub is a must-see. Snap a photo with this iconic symbol of Portland’s quirky culture!

12. Hike the Trails at Forest Park

Hiker on Wildwood Trail one of the best hikes in Forest Park

Forest Park offers over 80 miles of trails just outside downtown Portland. The Wildwood Trail is one of the most popular hikes and offers a peaceful escape into nature without leaving the city.

READ MORE: Forest Park in Portland

13. Take a Ghost Tour of Portland

Street scene on ghost tour Portland Oregon tours

If you’re up for a scare, join a ghost tour around Portland. Learn about the city’s spooky history, including haunted spots like the Roseland Theater.

READ MORE: Portland Ghost Tour

14. Ride the Portland Aerial Tram

Portland tram with lots of trees below on a sunny day.

For amazing city views, hop on the Portland Aerial Tram. On a clear day, you can see Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens. It’s a fun and scenic way to see the city from above!