Portland is a vibrant and scenic city in Oregon. It’s known for its large green parks and forests along with biking paths along the Willamette River. This Pacific Northwest destination is a must-visit, with its funky food truck culture and laid-back artsy community. The city of Portland is spotted with charming neighborhoods and has a small town feel to it, even though it’s the state’s largest metropolis. It’s the place to go if you’re outdoorsy and enjoy hiking and nature. Below you’ll find a list of some top attractions you won’t want to miss while in Portland.
There is a bus and light rail public transport system that can get you through the city center and its suburbs. However, the best way to explore the area and the nature surrounding it is with a rental car. Book an SUV to be ready to drive in all terrain, or a sedan if you just plan on exploring the city. For more information about renting a luxury car in Portland, check out exotic car rental from SIXT.
- 1. Portland Japanese Garden
- 2. Portland Art Museum
- 3. International Rose Test Garden
- 4. Multnomah Falls
- 5. David Hill Vineyards & Winery
- 6. Tillamook State Forest
- 7. Warrior Rock Lighthouse Point
- 8. Collins Beach
- 9. Pittock Mansion
- 10. Latourell Falls
- Best Places to Eat & Drink in Portland
Must-see attractions in Portland
1. Portland Japanese Garden
This traditional Japanese Garden is a beautiful hillside sanctuary great for a peaceful stroll. The compound also offers art exhibits and has a Tea House that completes the Zen ambiance. Spend some time walking along the paths and taking in the scenery of native trees and flowers. Immerse yourself in the Japanese culture in the Cultural Village.
Address: 611 SW Kingston Ave., Portland, OR 97205
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: Expect to spend about 2 hours wandering.
2. Portland Art Museum
This art museum is a collection of Asian, American and Native American art. The exhibits are spread out over two buildings and six stories. It’s located in the heart of Portland’s cultural district, right on South Park Blocks. Galleries and art are something that defines Portland’s culture, so you won’t want to miss it.
Address: 1219 SW Park Ave., Portland, OR 97205
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: Expect to spend about 2 hours here.
3. International Rose Test Garden
Portland has been called the “City of Roses” since it has the ideal climate for growing them. There are so many spots to explore within Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden being one of them. Take some time to wander and smell the beautifully scented roses throughout the garden.
Address: 400 SW Kingston Ave., Portland, OR 97205
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: Spend as much time here as you want absorbing the scenery.
4. Multnomah Falls
The Multnomah Falls are a dramatic cascade along the Columbia River Gorge. These falls are the most- visited natural recreation spot in the Pacific Northwest. Drive by for some beautiful shots, or plan to spend the day hiking to the falls and around the creek. Either way, you won’t be disappointed, and the views are worth the drive.
Address: 50000 Historic Columbia River Highway, Bridal Veil, OR 97010
Entry fees: More information
Hours: Day use only. When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: Spend as much time here as you want, either hiking up to the falls or just driving to the falls and scenic overlooks.
5. David Hill Vineyards & Winery
This vineyard is a bit off the beaten path, but that adds to its charm. David Hill Vineyard and Winery is the place to enjoy a pleasant wine tasting in a quaint farmhouse, with beautiful grounds to explore or relax and views of an amazing hillside of grapevines.
Address: 46350 NW David Hill Road, Forest Grove, OR 97116
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: At least 1-2 hours
6. Tillamook State Forest
The Tillamook State Forest is the place to go to enjoy a sunny day outdoors. Bring a picnic, comfortable hiking shoes and maybe your fishing gear if that’s your pastime of choice. The lush green landscape is breathtaking and a great spot to relax and get away from the city.
Address: 45500 Wilson River Hwy, Tillamook, OR 97141
Entry fees: There’s no set entry fee, but rather a suggested donation.
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: From 2 hours to a full day.
7. Warrior Rock Lighthouse Point
Enjoy a scenic hike along an easy trail. Bring your dog along with you; they are welcome on the trail if they are on a leash. Pack a snack and make your way along the shore out to the old Warrior Rock Lighthouse. It may be a good idea to carry bug repellent also, since they can get bothersome at times.
Address: 38151 A&B NW Reeder Road, Portland, OR 97231
Entry fees: More information
Hours: Open 24/7
Time required to see the attraction: About 3 hours
8. Collins Beach
Collins Beach is a sandy beach on the Columbia River. Enjoy a sunny day cooling off in the river and relaxing on the sand. Remember to bring sunblock and keep in mind that there are specific areas at Collins Beach that are clothing optional. Whether you choose to wear a bathing suit or not, you’ll want to stay.
Address: NW Reeder Road, Portland, OR 97231
Entry fees: Free
Hours: Open during the daytime hours.
Time required to see the attraction: You can spend as much or little time as you want.
9. Pittock Mansion
Visit the Pittock Mansion to explore a French Renaissance-style château tucked into the West Hills of Portland. It has a fascinating design and spectaculars gardens with panoramic views of the city. You don’t need to spend too much time at the mansion, but the incredible setting and architecture are worth the visit.
Address: 3229 NW Pittock Dr., Portland, OR 97210
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: About 1 hour
10. Latourell Falls
The Latourell Falls are a narrow waterfall plunging over a cliff. Take a drive out of Portland’s city center and take in the cliff side scenery. There are different trails to hike to see both the base of the falls as well as the upper falls. Be sure to wear the right shoes since the waterfall makes some trail sections a little slippery.
Address: Historic Columbia River Hwy, Corbett, OR 97019
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: About 2 hours to hike to the upper falls. The lower falls are visible from the road.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Portland
One of Portland’s most iconic scenes is the funky food trucks. Apart from that, you can find some of the finest seafood around the city, as well as delicious doughnuts.
RingSide Steakhouse: This is the place to enjoy a rib-eye or filet mignon, and sip on an Old Fashioned or a glass of wine in a cozy dining room spotted with fireplaces.
Kabba’s Kitchen: This black and silver food cart serves exceptional Gambian and Senegalese dishes, including meat pies and whole fish yassa.
Vintage Cocktail Lounge: Stop here for a drink if you’re looking for some old-school top-notch cocktails. This is where you can ditch the flashy cocktails and enjoy a quality product.
Bar Casa Vale: This spot is the ideal place to go for tapas with a glass of Spanish wine. Bar Casa Vale in the Buckman area is great for hanging out with friends on its patio.
