Things To Do
International Rose Test Garden
A gorgeous and free walk around over 600 different types of roses. It will be right in the middle of the blooming season and will be beautiful early summer!
Portland Japanese Garden
Right next to the Rose Garden, these gardens are just as peaceful and zen. At $22 a person it is a bit more expensive than the rose garden, but the combo will have your legs burning and you feeling right back in nature from the big city.
Powell's City of Books
One of the first places in Portland that the two of us went to together. This is a wonderland of a full block of books. 5+ levels and a coffee shop makes for a full afternoon for any book lover big or small.
Timberline Lodge
Made famous for its aerial view in the movie of "The Shining," this breathtaking lodge on the side of our infamous volcano, Mount Hood. You will find some snow almost all year long and some of the most breathtaking views of the city and landscape of anywhere in our country. This is an hour and a half outside of town and not a quick trip, but if you have the time, it is one of our greatest treasures and even has some hotel rooms if you want to stay a night!
Cannon Beach
A quintessential west coast town will bring you the sights and sounds of the little beach town you have always dreamed of. Little shops and boutique cafe's line one of Oregon's most famous beaches. Just beyond the town you will see Haystack Rock which is the 3rd tallest intertidal structure in the world! This is a destination with about a 2 hour drive each way but coupled with Ecola state park, this is the way to see the west coast beaches.
Ecola State Park / Indian Beach
Located just north of Cannon Beach, this is the location where we took our engagement photos! There is a viewing point near the entrance and a short drive or 2 mile hike will bring you to Indian Beach where you can walk on the sand staring up at the cliffs above. Another 2 hours drive away from central Portland, we advise bringing some hiking gear because every trail you walk down leads you to a new gorgeous view. Fun fact: Part of the Goonies was filmed in Ecola State Park
Oregon Zoo
The Oregon Zoo, is a zoo located in Washington Park, Portland, Oregon, approximately 2 miles southwest of downtown Portland. Founded in 1888, it is the oldest zoo west of the Mississippi River. The 64-acre zoo is owned by the regional Metro government. It currently holds more than 1,800 animals of more than 230 species, including 19 endangered species and 9 threatened species.The zoo also boasts an extensive plant collection throughout its animal exhibits and specialized gardens. At $24 a person, this is a must see if you find yourself with an extra afternoon in town.
Pittock Mansion
One of the coolest architecturally historic building in Portland is over at Pittock Mansion. This 60 minute self guided tour of the 46 room French style Chateau and 46 acres of manicured grounds will leave you in awe of the early 1900's Pacific Northwest.
McMenamins Kennedy School
Book a night or just come for a bite and drinks, but please check out one of the coolest McMenamins locations out there. At Kennedy School, you can have a pint in a classroom, enjoy an aged whiskey in detention, enjoy a movie in the old auditorium.... The possibilities here are endless. (Just don't run in the hallways, please. You might spill your beer.) This historic elementary school opened in 1915 and closed in 1975. This vacant Portland fixture was purchased by the hospitality company in 1997 and has been revitalized into a funky place to grab a microbrew, while looking at a creepy 100 year old mural. We recommend a drink in the Boiler Room followed by dinner at the Courtyard Restaurant followed by a nightcap in either the Detention Room or the Honors Bar.
Tillamook Creamery Factory Tour
75 miles from Downtown Portland and about an hour and a halfs drive, the self guided Tillamook Creamery Factory Tour is a must see for one of the biggests names in Oregon. During the Tillamook Cheese Factory tour, you will learn so much information about the company’s history, business model, how cheese is made, and how to care for cows. There is truly something to learn that will interest everyone — from young kids to adults! Oh yeah, and there are free samples! Don't forget to stock up on some of your favorites on your way out at the gift shop!
Multnomah Falls
Check out the Pacific North West's most visited natural recreation site here at Multnomah Falls. After crossing the breathtaking views of the Benson Bridge, this 785 elevation walk brings you to the top of the cascading waterfall to see one of the prettiest natural sites in Oregon. At the base you will find a gift shop, lodge and cafe to great you. Parking is limited so make sure you reserve a parking pass before you come or find a shuttle/uber to take you there!