Things to do in Portland
Portland, Oregon is a wonderfully walkable, weird, and welcoming city packed with world-class food carts, free museums, and lush parks that make it one of the best-value destinations on the West Coast. Its strong culture of affordability, craft beer, and outdoor access means you can have an exceptional trip without spending like a tourist.
Why go to Portland
Powell's City of Books
The world's largest independent bookstore spanning an entire city block, a genuine Portland landmark you can lose hours in.
International Rose Test Garden
Over 10,000 rose bushes with sweeping views of Mount Hood, completely free and breathtaking in bloom season.
Portland Japanese Garden
One of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside Japan, perched in the West Hills with serene beauty year-round.
Multnomah Falls
A thundering 620-foot waterfall just 30 minutes from downtown that looks like something out of a fantasy film.
Portland Saturday Market
The largest continuously operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the US, alive with local artisans, food, and street performers.
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Good to know in Portland
- TriMet runs buses, MAX light rail, and the Portland Streetcar, a single fare ($2.50) covers all modes for 2.5 hours, and a day pass is $5; get the TriMet app to buy tickets before boarding
- Tipping is standard at 18-20% in sit-down restaurants; food cart tipping is appreciated but more casual, $1-2 is fine
- Portland tap water is exceptionally clean, coming straight from the Bull Run watershed, skip bottled water entirely and refill everywhere
- Portland Art Museum offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month from 5-8 PM, and Lan Su Chinese Garden has free days periodically, check schedules before your visit
Trip essentials
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