Top 10 Must Visit Attractions in Portland, Oregon

Portland is a bustling metropolis in the Pacific Northwest of the US. This city is well-known for its vast stretches of green space, which range from gorgeous mountaintops to parks and woods. If you love spending time outdoors, Portland is sure to captivate you, but the city also offers many other wonderful features that make it truly special. It's hip and eccentric, with excellent shopping, attractions, museums, and dining options to match.

So, if you're thinking about visiting the City of Roses soon, then check out this list of the top 10 things to do in Portland:

If you're a bookworm or simply into amazing places, making time to explore Powell's City of Books in Portland should be at the top of your list. This amazing bookstore is so large that you need a guide to navigate it, standing three stories tall and taking up a full square block in the city. Every year, several well-known authors stop by this bookshop and sign one of the inside pillars, leaving their imprint. There are nearly daily activities here, so you can plan your visit according to numerous readings that take place. 

Numerous gardens, an arboretum, an amphitheater, the Oregon Zoo, and many other attractions can be found at Washington Park. Spend some time exploring the serene Japanese Gardens in Washington Park for the purest sense of tranquility. As you stroll through these 12 acres of breathtakingly designed gardens and take in the sound of gently flowing streams, you'll feel as though you've been transported to Japan. In addition to this, be sure to check out the international rose test garden there, especially between April and October when it looks like a stunning blanket of color.

Check out the incredibly amazing Oregon Museum of Science and Industry which is one of the best attractions in Portland. There are eight distinct labs and five halls in this interactive museum where you may interact with the exhibits. Learning fascinating new concepts in physics, chemistry, paleontology, and other fields will also be enjoyable for you here. Through its exhibitions, the OMSI seeks to educate people about the value of contemporary skills like problem-solving and critical thinking to advance a sustainable society. Don’t forget to visit the planetarium and IMAX Theater on-site.

Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the country, offers an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life in Portland. Over 5,100 acres are covered by its massive forest canopy. The park is home to more than 70 miles of trails, some of which are popular routes like the 40-mile Loop's Wildwood Trail. Take a stroll in the park during the afternoon or have an early morning jog amid its 62 animal and 112 bird species and be pleased by the beauty of this park.

Multnomah Falls, one of Oregon's tallest waterfalls at 620 feet, is located in the scenic Columbia River Gorge, just a short drive from Portland. Visitors can enjoy a closer view by walking a short 1/4-mile trail to Benson Bridge, which spans the lower falls. This spot offers a stunning view and a refreshing experience, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Portland is famous for its food trucks, and Portland Mercado stands out with a great selection. This lively market offers a diverse array of Mexican, Central, and South American foods in a colorful setting. You can explore different carts and kitchens, and even check out the bar and butchers, to find your ideal meal.

Portland Art Museum is considered the oldest museum in the region. The most distinguished collection in Oregon resides there, and it features modern American art, Japanese screen prints, and masterworks from Europe. In addition, there's a photography section and a sculpture park. However, the Native American collection within the museum—which features over 3,500 antique and contemporary artifacts from over 200 different tribes—is not to be missed. 

Pioneer Courthouse Square, sometimes referred to as Portland's living room, is the ideal starting point for exploring this amazing city. It is a gathering place for both locals and visitors and is located in the heart of Portland's downtown. Explore the Pioneer Courthouse and pose for a picture next to the famous signpost. You can also take part in one of the 300 annual events held here, which include farmers' markets and live music. Also, take note of the names that are individually carved on the red bricks as you stroll along them; these names represent the people who contribute to making Portland striking!

If you are looking for Portland OR things to do, then take a trip above the city for some breathtaking panoramic views by boarding the Portland Aerial Tram. Get to travel 3,300 feet during this 4-minute trip and admire the stunning green spaces that Portland is known for. When you get to the top terminal, step outside onto the patio to take in the breathtaking views of Portland's city. In fine weather, you can even see Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens from there.

Portland's chic Pearl District is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in retail therapy or simply soak up the local culture. This trendy area is packed with unique small shops, designer boutiques, and captivating art galleries. You'll find everything from clothing and shoes to home goods and wellness products in the district's diverse range of large-brand and boutique stores. After exploring the art and shopping options, treat yourself to a hot cup of coffee or a delicious meal at one of the many nice eateries in the area. Whether you're shopping, dining, or gallery-hopping, the Pearl District is undoubtedly one of the top Portland attractions.