Things to do in Portland

Activities, attractions and tours

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Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Moda Center

Watch top sporting action, family shows and concerts by national and international artists at the Moda Center, a multi-purpose arena with a capacity for nearly 20,000 spectators. This popular venue is used for ice shows, rodeos, hockey games, conventions and more. The arena is also the home of the Portland Trail Blazers basketball team and the Portland Winterhawks, a junior ice hockey team.
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The Moda Center with a clear sky, trees, and a pedestrian area.

2. Oregon Zoo

In Washington Park, located in the West Hills not too far from Portland, visitors will find a 26-hectare zoo housing animals of all shapes and sizes. It is home to more than 1,955 animals, including 22 endangered species and 37 threatened species. It is the perfect way to spend a rainy day around Portland, as most of the exhibits offer shelter of some sort.
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3. Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Locals and tourists alike are drawn to Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Stroll along the Willamette River in a serene green space just minutes away from busy downtown Portland. Natives call it simply Waterfront Park, and many of the Rose Festival events take place here. The wide, tree-lined paths burst with colour and flank a well-manicured walkway that cyclists, joggers, and dog walkers all enjoy all year round.
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A bridge over a river with geese grazing on the grass near the water.

4. Powell's City of Books

People around the world have heard of Powell’s City of Books in downtown Portland. Initially established in 1971, the store now covers a city block and may be the world’s largest new and used bookstore, with a million volumes. Come to purchase a specific book, wander through its many sections or meet a visiting author.
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A bookstore named Powell's Books with a red and white sign, located at a street corner with modern buildings in the background.

5. Veterans Memorial Coliseum

Enjoy a few exciting hours of thrilling sporting action or musical performances on a visit to the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. This 12,000-seat multipurpose indoor arena is the home of the Portland WHL Winterhawks ice hockey team and presents a year-round schedule of events that includes pop and rock concerts, stand-up comedy shows, hockey games and festivals.
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What to do in Portland


Stay near popular Portland attractions

Where to stay in Portland

Find the best Portland areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Pearl District

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Pearl District. Spend some time visiting top spots like Powell's City of Books, and catch the metro at NW 10th & Johnson Stop or NW 11th & Johnson Stop to see more of the area.

Downtown Portland

Known for its stunning river views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Portland. Check out top attractions like Portlandia and Portland City Hall, and jump on the metro at City Hall-SW 5th and Jefferson Street Station or SW 6th-Madison Street Station to see more of the city.

Nob Hill

While you're in Nob Hill, take in top sights like Trevett-Nunn House or Mission Theater, and hop on the metro to see more the city at NW 23rd & Marshall Stop or NW Lovejoy & 22nd Stop.

Lloyd District

Moda Center and Lloyd Center are top sights in Lloyd District, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at NE Grand & Multnomah Stop or NE 7th & Holladay Stop to see more sights in the area.

Central Eastside

While you're in Central Eastside, take in top sights like REALM - PDX or Grand Central, and hop on the metro to see more the city at SE Grand & Taylor Stop or SE Grand & Belmont Stop.

Frequently asked questions

Is Portland worth visiting?
Famous for its distilleries and craft breweries and cycling, discovering fun things to do in Portland is easy. Be sure to add Oregon Zoo to your itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Portland?
Oregon Zoo and Oregon Museum of Science and Industry are two great places to start your vacation adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Portland while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Portland?
Oregon Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in Portland and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Portland?
You can easily visit top attractions like Oregon Zoo, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and Keller Auditorium with a three-day getaway in Portland. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a little longer and check out Vancouver.
Is Portland a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city center, Portland is a good place to explore on foot. Enjoy wandering between Oregon Zoo and Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. Then take a stroll around Downtown Portland, located 0.16 kilometers from downtown, and Lloyd District, which is roughly 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Portland with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities sets the tone for a great escape. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Portland with kids.

What to do in Portland for adults?
Oswego Hills Vineyard and Winery and Rogue Distillery and Public House are just two of the things to do in Portland. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Portland?
From enjoying parks to wandering around vibrant neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Portland. If you need new ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Lindbergh's Beach is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing adventures.