Plan your ultimate Portland experience with our guide to everything happening in the city. Find details on upcoming events—from concerts and parties to sports and family-friendly activities—plus top restaurants & eateries, local tours, historic landmarks, museums, and vibrant social hubs. We also feature premium 4 and 5-star accommodations, including hotels, Airbnb, and vacation rentals. All this essential information is provided below to help you plan the perfect adventure when visiting Portland, Oregon.
Portland, Oregon, is a lively city known for its thriving food scene, craft breweries, outdoor beauty, and eclectic culture. Nestled between the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, Portland blends urban energy with access to nature, making it a top destination for visitors looking to explore art, music, food, and the great outdoors. Whether you’re wandering through the Pearl District, hiking in Forest Park, or enjoying live music, this page highlights the best things to do in Portland.
Portland is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from food carts and farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisine and gourmet doughnuts. The city is home to one of the most diverse and creative dining scenes in the country, featuring artisan coffee, craft cocktails, and locally sourced dishes. Downtown and the Pearl District are hotspots for fine dining, cocktail lounges, and brunch spots, while Division Street and Alberta Arts District offer some of the best food trucks, breweries, and trendy eateries. The city is also famous for its craft beer scene, with breweries scattered throughout every neighborhood.
Portland offers a mix of modern hotels, boutique stays, and quirky accommodations. Downtown Portland and the Pearl District feature luxury hotels and boutique inns within walking distance of major attractions. For a more unique experience, visitors can stay in renovated historic buildings, eco-friendly lodges, or hip hostels in the city’s arts districts. Those looking for a more nature-focused stay can book cabins or vacation rentals near the Columbia River Gorge or Mount Hood.
Portland has a thriving arts, music, and nightlife scene. The Pearl District and Alberta Arts District are filled with galleries, independent bookstores, and live music venues. The city is home to legendary music clubs like the Crystal Ballroom and Revolution Hall, featuring performances from local and national artists. The Mississippi Avenue and Division Street neighborhoods are known for craft cocktail bars, intimate jazz lounges, and laid-back breweries. Portland also hosts major cultural events, including the Portland Rose Festival, Waterfront Blues Festival, and PDX Beer Week.
Portland is rich in history, nature, and quirky landmarks. The Pittock Mansion, a historic home with panoramic city views, offers insight into Portland’s early days. Washington Park is home to the famous Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden, featuring thousands of rose varieties. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and the Portland Art Museum showcase a mix of science, technology, and world-class art. For something offbeat, visitors can explore the Shanghai Tunnels or the whimsical Freakybuttrue Peculiarium.
Portland offers a mix of urban and outdoor experiences, cultural festivals, and live entertainment. Visitors can hike through Forest Park, bike along the Willamette River, or explore the Columbia River Gorge’s waterfalls. The city’s famous Saturday Market is a must-visit for handmade crafts, street performers, and local food vendors. Sports fans can catch a Portland Trail Blazers NBA game at the Moda Center or a Portland Timbers MLS match at Providence Park. With its vibrant neighborhoods, natural beauty, and arts culture, this page provides everything you need to experience Portland.