Portland

Day Trips

Start your day at the iconic Pioneer Courthouse Square, often referred to as Portland's living room. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee from a local café while taking in the morning bustle of the city. Visit the nearby Portland Art Museum to kick off your cultural exploration with its impressive collection of Native American art.

After lunch at one of the food trucks in the square, stroll through the historic streets of Old Town, where you can see the beautiful architecture and learn about the city’s history. Take a moment to visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. This afternoon is perfect for a leisurely walk along the waterfront and a visit to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

As the sun sets, head to the Pearl District for dinner at one of the trendy restaurants that highlight the local farm-to-table food scene. After your meal, explore the vibrant nightlife, including craft breweries and live music venues. End your evening with a nightcap at a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city skyline.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on one of the many scenic trails, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquility of nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the enchanting views and diverse wildlife.

After a few hours of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park’s picnic areas surrounded by towering trees. Spend the afternoon exploring additional trails or visiting the nearby International Rose Test Garden, where you’ll find thousands of fragrant roses in bloom. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the city from the garden’s elevated spots.

After a day in nature, return to the city for a relaxed dinner in the Nob Hill neighborhood, known for its charming boutiques and eateries. Sample some local craft beer or wine at a nearby brewery or winery, as Portland is famous for its vibrant craft beverage scene. Wind down your evening with a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, soaking in the local charm.

Kick off your culinary exploration with breakfast at a local café famous for its inventive dishes and locally sourced ingredients. After breakfast, join a guided food tour that showcases Portland's diverse culinary landscape, including stops at artisanal bakeries and specialty shops. Engage with local chefs and learn about the farm-to-table philosophy that drives the city's food culture.

Continue your food journey by visiting the Portland Farmers Market, where you can sample fresh produce, gourmet cheeses, and handmade pastries from local vendors. Take a cooking class in the afternoon to learn how to prepare some of Portland’s signature dishes using fresh, local ingredients. The class will not only teach you new skills but also provide insight into the region's culinary traditions.

After your cooking class, enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a restaurant known for its innovative menu and vibrant atmosphere. Pair your meal with a local wine or craft cocktail to enhance your dining experience. To cap off the night, visit a dessert shop to indulge in some of Portland’s famous sweet treats.

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a café in the Pearl District, enjoying the vibrant art scene around you. Afterward, head to the numerous art galleries and boutiques that line the streets, featuring local artists and unique crafts. Be sure to visit the Portland Center Stage for a glimpse at innovative theatrical performances.

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the contemporary art installations at the Museum of Contemporary Craft. Explore the nearby shops and pick up some unique souvenirs or artwork to remember your visit. Enjoy lunch at a trendy eatery that showcases the diversity of Portland's culinary scene.

As the day winds down, catch a live performance at one of the local theaters, showcasing everything from indie bands to classical music. After the show, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant known for its artistic ambiance and eclectic menu. Finish your evening with a stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy the illuminated city skyline.

Begin your day with breakfast at a lakeside café before setting off for a kayaking adventure on the Willamette River. Paddle through the calm waters as you soak in the beautiful views of the city skyline and surrounding natural beauty. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and fish, as you navigate the river.

After your kayaking excursion, enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant that offers fresh seafood and farm-to-table options. Spend your afternoon on a scenic river cruise that provides a unique perspective of Portland’s landmarks and bridges. Learn about the city’s rich history from the onboard guide while enjoying the picturesque views.

As the day comes to a close, return to shore for a relaxing dinner at a popular waterfront restaurant. Sample some of Portland’s renowned seafood dishes as you watch the sunset over the river. Conclude your evening with a cozy walk along the riverbank, taking in the peaceful ambiance and twinkling city lights.

Start your day with an early breakfast before crossing the bridge to Vancouver, Washington, just a short drive from Portland. Upon arrival, visit Fort Vancouver National Historic Site to learn about the area's colonial history through interactive exhibits and guided tours. Take a stroll along the waterfront at Esther Short Park and enjoy the scenic views of the Columbia River.

After a leisurely morning, enjoy lunch at a local café before exploring the Pearson Field and its historic aircraft displays. Spend the afternoon visiting the Vancouver Art Space to see contemporary works from regional artists. Don't forget to check out local shops for unique crafts and souvenirs before heading back to Portland.

Return to Portland in the evening and stop by a vibrant food cart pod for a casual dinner with a variety of cuisines to choose from. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you sample different dishes from local vendors. End your day with a nightcap at a nearby bar, soaking in the lively nightlife of Portland.

Set off early for a day trip to the stunning Columbia River Gorge, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. Start your journey with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before hitting the road. Upon arrival, visit Multnomah Falls, Oregon's tallest waterfall, and take a short hike to the viewing bridge for an unforgettable photo opportunity.

After admiring the falls, continue your exploration by hiking along the Gorge's numerous trails, where you can discover hidden waterfalls and spectacular vistas. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. Spend the afternoon visiting additional waterfalls like Horsetail and Bridal Veil, each with its unique charm.

As the sun begins to set, make your way back to Portland, stopping at a local winery along the way for a tasting of Oregon's renowned wines. Enjoy a casual dinner at a winery restaurant with a view of the vineyards. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening stroll in the city, reflecting on the natural wonders you've witnessed.

Start your day with breakfast at a cozy café in the Alberta Arts District, known for its colorful murals and local shops. Afterward, explore the eclectic boutiques and galleries that showcase local artisans and craftspeople. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Alberta Street Market, where you can find unique handmade goods and local produce.

For lunch, enjoy a bite at one of the neighborhood's trendy eateries before heading to the Saturday Market at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where you'll find local crafts, food vendors, and live music. Spend your afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs and gifts, interacting with local artists and vendors. This vibrant market is the perfect place to soak in Portland's creative spirit.

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a popular restaurant in the area serving up seasonal and locally-sourced dishes. After dinner, explore the nightlife in the Alberta Arts District, with its lively bars and music venues featuring local talent. Wrap up your day with a dessert stop at a beloved ice cream shop, savoring the unique flavors that Portland has to offer.

Begin your day with a peaceful breakfast at a café near Washington Park before immersing yourself in tranquility at the Portland Japanese Garden. Spend your morning wandering through the meticulously landscaped gardens, taking in the serene atmosphere and traditional Japanese architecture. Be sure to visit the tea house for an authentic matcha tea experience.

After exploring the gardens, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers a fusion of Japanese and American cuisine. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Hoyt Arboretum, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk among diverse trees from around the world. This scenic area is perfect for nature lovers who appreciate both beauty and biodiversity.

As evening approaches, return to the city for a relaxed dinner at a restaurant known for its sushi and Japanese specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the Pearl District, enjoying the art installations and vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to a local sake bar for a taste of traditional Japanese drinks.