Things To Do

Mount Hood

Looming at 11,239 ft, Mt. Hood is a spectacular sight. Mt. Hood is Oregon's highest peak and an active volcano of the Cascade Range.

Mount Saint Helens

Standing at 8,363 ft, what Mt. Saint Helens lacks in height it makes up for in reputation. Located just over the border in the state of Washington, it is about a 2 hour drive from the heart of Portland to the volcanic monument. If you don't feel so adventurous, no worries. You can see Mt. Saint Helens from all over the Portland area.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

A drive or a tour through the Gorge doesn't take too long and is so worth it.

Willamette Valley

You know all about California wine country. Now, Come explore Oregon wine country. Willamette Valley (in Oregon it is pronounced "will-LAM-met", go figure...) is home to over 700 wineries and was recognized as wine region of the year in 2016 by Wine Enthusiast magazine. You can even take advantage of the "Oregon Wine Flies Free" program through Alaska Airlines that allows you to check a case of Oregon wine for free if you are flying with them. https://www.willamettevalley.org/articles/oregon-wine-flies-free-with-alaska-airlines/

Haystack Rock

The Oregon Coast is only about 90 minutes from Portland and is definitely worth the trip. This is where the opening scene of the Goonies was filmed.

Powell's City of Books

This is a Portland MUST SEE. This is the world's largest bookstore based on shelf space (as opposed to floor space). Powell's sells both new and used books and is a much loved attraction by locals and tourists alike. Be sure to check out their rare book room, open from 10am-5pm daily. If you are an avid reader, give yourself a few hours to really check the whole place out. There is also a great coffee shop inside if you want to sit and linger over a book.

Multnomah Falls

Oregon is home to many waterfalls, and some call it "the Patagonia of the U.S." One of the best hikes if you are limited on time and want to see falls is this spot. You don't have to hike; you can just check out the falls if you aren't a fan of a lot of switchbacks. Definitely a must see.

Council Crest Park

If you can make it to this spot, we highly recommend it. Council Crest Park is right in the heart of the city and stands at an elevation of 1,073 feet. On a clear day, this site has some of the best views of the city skyline, Mt. Hood, and Mt. St. Helens. A great place to have an impromptu picnic lunch.

Big Pink

The real name of this building is the U.S. Bancorp Tower, but locals know it as Big Pink because of its unusual hue, which is created by pink Spanish granite and pink glazed plate glass. The 30th floor is home to a local restaurant, namely, Portland City Grill, that boasts spectacular, nearly 360 views of the city and the mountains. Try to make a reservation and hope for a clear day for the best views. It is also a fun spot for happy hour.

International Rose Test Garden

Come see why Portland is known as 'Rose City'. This is one of the most beautiful gardens you will ever see.

Portland Japanese Garden

Pittock Mansion

Some of the best views of Mt. Hood can be seen from here.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai

This is another Portland locals favorite. There is almost always a line out the door. But when there's a restaurant that makes only mini doughnuts, you can't say no. It is worth the wait.

Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine | Pearl District

By far our favorite Thai restaurant in Portland. The food is amazing but the locations are also so aesthetically pleasing and unique. If you are staying on the Northeast side of town, there is also a location on Hawthorne Blvd.

Jam On Hawthorne

The BEST brunch spot in Portland. This is another one that sometimes has quite a wait but it is worth it. They have a window outside where you can order coffee and mimosas while you wait for your table! Their mimosa mixes are made in house and come in many flavors: Mango, Peach, Guava, Blood Orange, Raspberry, Lavender, Rose, Chai, Pistachio, and Strawberry!