Things To Do
Multnomah Falls
One of Oregon's most iconic waterfalls & tourist attractions. About a 30ish minute drive from the city, you will need to get a permit / parking pass in advance due to it being peak season in June. We recommend buying your pass at least 1 - 2 days in advance. We would also highly recommend any of the other waterfalls along the corridor. They aren't all as big, but are each breathtaking in their own right.
Hoyt Arboretum (Washington Park)
Beautiful and easy walking trail through a well-manicured park with a unique viewing deck overlooking a beautiful grove of Redwood Trees (The Redwood Deck). Highly recommend to see some classic Oregon foliage!
Portland Water Front
Taking a stroll along the waterfront is a great way to see the city. The loop runs on both sides of the river. Parking near OMSI and walking along the corridor as far as you want is recommended!
Mount Tabor
Excellent city park close to our house! Great way to see SE portland from above as well as the hills across the river. Offers both paved and unpaved walking paths. If this is your only outdoor stop while in Portland you will not be disappointed!
Biketown
Rent a Nike bike and see the city! Portland is extremely bike friendly. 'Bike Alleys' offer safe routes through the city. Ask us if you're curious!
Portland Japanese Garden
Lovely, serene garden right next to Hoyt Arboretum (hit both in one morning). We recommend a quiet walk to admire the gardens and be sure to stop at the tea house at the top of the hill!
Mount Hood National Forest
Mount Hood is only 60 miles south of the city. If you have time we would highly recommend checking it out! Some of our favorite hikes are in this area, including Tom Dick and Harry Mountain, Mirror Lake or Trillium Lake!
Cannon Beach
The Oregon Coast is Ben's favorite place in the state. Canon Beach is the shortest drive from Portland, but completely worth it if you can make it. Seeing Haystack Rock is a must, but the real gem in Canon Beach is Ecola State Park. Experience the temperate rainforest, hike along oceanside cliffs, spend some time watching the surfers at Indian Beach. It's truly magical.
QuarterWorld Arcade
Huge arcade bar with large assortment of games and pinball machines. Always a good time! Towards the end of the Hawthorne Strip, which is full of great bars, coffee, & vintage shops.
The Richmond Bar
Excellent spot for some good New American food and solid drinks. Great sitting area around a fire outback. One of our regular stops!
Little Beast Brewing Beer Garden
Great patio for sampling beers and a good landing spot if exploring Division Street! Pro tip: get the barbecue nachos!
Keeper Coffee Co
Delicious coffee & pastries!
Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Stumptown is sort of the Starbucks of Portland (but good). Great coffee and treats. You can't go wrong at any of the locations!
Gado Gado
Our absolute favorite. Unreal food and service. Great drinks. This is where we had our post-ceremony dinner.
Eem - Thai BBQ & Cocktails
Portland truly has some of the best food in the world. Eem is a standout fusion restaurant we couldn't recommend enough.
Salt & Straw
Portland is low-key an ice cream town. Salt and straw is also a local chain, but one of the best. They're known for their seasonal and zany flavors. Pro tip: Try the olive oil ice cream.
Tabor Bread
Top notch sourdough bakery. Their sweets are good, but we think their savory pastries really stand out!