Portland, home to the Portland Brewers Festival, is one of the most popular destinations in the state of Oregon and is renowned for its many inner city parks and outdoor recreational centers where you can enjoy fun activities.
In fact, if you are traveling to Portland for the first time, you’ll be glad to know that the city is home to an impressive 5000-acre forest land within the city limits, where you can hike and explore a variety of wildlife.
The city of Portland is also a mere 10 miles away from Washington State via the Pacific Highway.
Another reason that makes the Portland such a great destination is that it is under two hours drive from Cannon Beach and Bay City, as well as within range of other fun things to do in Oregon.
Fun Things to do in Portland Oregon: Places of Interest
The USS Oregon Memorial
The USS Oregon Memorial, located in Waterfront Park, is the mast of the battleship which was erected to commemorate the historic battleship.
The Japanese-American Plaza & Memorial Garden
The Japanese-American memorial, also located on the Waterfront Park, is a plaza and garden dedicated to the memory of the Japanese soldiers who fought in US military services during World War II.
Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square, located in the downtown shopping district, is a popular gathering place
home to expositions, festivals and events. If you are traveling to Portland during Christmas time, the city erects the Christmas tree here.
Powell’s Bookstore
The city of Portland is home to the largest bookstore in the USA, Powell's Bookstore. The bookstore is a three story building where you can find new and used books all in one place.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a great place for everyone, especially families with kids, as it offers interactive exhibits.
The museum is home to unusual and interesting exhibits that change from time to time, but it also features permanent exhibits such as the popular Turbine Hall
Washington Park
Washington Park is one of the most popular places to visit, especially if you are looking for fun things to do in Portland with the family. The park is home to the Oregon Zoo, the Japanese Garden, the Pittock Mansion, Portland's Children's Museum and more.
Fun Things to do in Portland Oregon: Outdoor Activities
If you are looking to enjoy fun outdoor activities and explore a bit of nature, Portland is home to a five-thousand acre Forest Park and many outdoor recreation areas.
At Forest park, you can enjoy miles of hiking trails, horse-back riding, mountain biking and bird-spotting.
Fun Things to do in Portland Oregon: Festivals & Events
The Portland Rose Festival and Parade
The Portland Rose Festival and Parade, held in June, is a popular event where you can see the popular Grand Floral Marching Parade and other fun events. In fact, attending this festival is one of the top fun things to do in Portland as you can participate in the popular Dragon boat races.
Festa Italiana
The Festa Italiana festival, held in August at the Pioneer Square, is a popular summer event where you can soak in Italian culture, enjoy Italian food and music.
Mt. Hood Jazz Festival
Mt. Hood Jazz Festival, held in early August, is a popular festival that brings together famous jazz musicians along with up and coming local jazz artists.
Safeway Waterfront Blues Festival
Safeway Waterfront Blues Festival, held on the Waterfront in early July, is another popular summer event where you can see some of the best Blues artists in the country. Also, the event usually happens during the Independence Day holiday, making an extra especial event.
Fun Things to do in Portland Oregon: Nightlife & Entertainment
The city Portland is also known for its live music venues and best microbrewery pubs. If you are exploring Portland’s nightlife two popular venues that offer live music are Berbatis Pan and Candlelight Cafe and Bar.
If you are looking to enjoy the club scene, Shanghai Tunnel, Vault Martini and Bar 71 are popular nightclubs to consider.
Fun Things to do in Portland Oregon: Souvenir Shopping
If you are visiting Portland for the first time, shopping for gifts and souvenirs is a fun thing to do before you leave Portland. One of the best places to purchase gifts in the city is at Portland Saturday Market. At the market, you can buy hand-made goods such as pottery and wood crafts.
Fun Things to do in Portland Oregon: Sports
If you love sports, PGE Park is home to the Portland Beavers minor baseball league team, as well as the Portland Timbers soccer team.
See. Places to visit in Astoria Oregon
Places to visit along the Oregon Coast
Places to visit in Salem Oregon
Places to visit in Eugene Oregon
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