The 8 things to do in Portland

Visit Portland: what are the best things to do and see in the "City of the Roses"?

Direction Portland, the largest city in Oregon State. Located near the confluence of the Columbia River and the Willamette River, at the foot of the snowy summit of Mount Hood, the city has about 650,000 inhabitants. Ecoo, alternative, industrial and typically US, Portland is a city of contrasts that is worth a visit.

Its slogan " Keep Portland weird" (Gardez Portland strange) intrigue and attracts! Indeed, this ultra trendy city is recognized for its open and shifted culture, but also for its parks, bridges and bike paths, microbrewery and coffee shops and for its commitment to environmental protection.

You will discover a wide range of beautiful sites, activities and other natural beauties. In addition, the city welcomes a lively artistic, theatrical and musical scene. Are you wondering what to do in Portland? This way.

1. The statue of Portlandia

Portlandia is a sculpture Raymond Kaskey located above the entrance of the Portland Building, in the city centre of Portland, 1120 SW 5th Avenue . This is the second largest copper statue in the United States, after the Statue of Liberty .

Like all the historic must-sees of the city, Portlandia integrates the popular City Tour de Portland: a three-hour guided tour of the city that will plunge you into the history and culture of the place!

2. University of Portland

Located in the city centre, discover the University of Portland and its huge campus that is built in the city. If you are going to visit Portland, it is a nice place to stroll and discover the “American student life”.

3. Portland Rose Garden – International Rose Test Garden

What are you asking in Portland? A must-see thing is the rose garden! It is thanks to him that the city is nicknamed “the city of roses”. Located in Washington Park , the rose garden is one of the oldest in the United States, but also the largest in the world. This is a huge rose garden, where international trials take place and where you can discover thousands of rose trees of more than 500 varieties.

Therefore, we advise you to visit the city at the time of flowering, that is between April and October. You won't be disappointed in so much beauty!

4. The Pittock Mansion

Built in 1914, the Pittock Mansion tells the story of the transformation of Portland, from pioneering city to modern and industrialized city, through the history and heritage of one of its most influential families, the Pittocks.

The manor house and its estate were bought by the city of Portland and opened to the public as a museum of the historic house in 1964. Located in height compared to the city, the Pittock Mansion offers a great view of all Portland. It is also surrounded by beautiful gardens, a perfect place for a picnic.

5. The Japanese garden of Portland

If you like nature, plants and flowers, then go to Portland! Indeed, the rose garden is not the only place in the city to be spectacular. The Japanese garden , a small haven of peace and tranquility, is also worth a visit. It is renowned as one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens outside Japan!

6. Portland Art Museum

Visiting Portland is necessarily passing the Musée d’Art de Portland , renowned all over the world. Founded in 1892, it is part of the country’s 25 largest art museums, accounting for more than 42,000 works of art on an area of 22,000 km2. Amérindien art, local, modern or contemporary art, as well as exhibitions on Asian art and a public garden of sculptures, are available to you in this pleasant complex.

7. Saturday market in Portland

The Portland Saturday Market is an outdoor craft market that attracts about 750,000 visitors every year. You can enjoy delicious dishes, attend shows, or discover the crafts of the region, in this place like the city: informal, casual and very fun. As its name does NOT indicate (really), the Portland Saturday Market is open on Saturday and Sunday, and is located at 2 SW Naito Parkway in Waterfront Park, along the Willamette River (from which the magnificent view of all bridges). It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Portland and to meet its inhabitants.

To immerse yourself in local culture, think about the epicurean visits during which, from addresses to addresses, you are invited to discover (and savour!) local specialties. From street food to gastronomy, explore the culinary culture of Portland, which is well known, is a true paradise for taste buds.

8. Willamette Valley, wine region

What to do in Portland? Go and discover its surroundings! Portland is incredibly well known for its wine region. North of the Willamette valley , a few kilometers from the city, has become over the years one of the most prominent regions in the wine world, with more than 500 domains ! Renowned for its Pinot Noir, the Willamette Valley is one of those places that deserve to take the time to explore them, the time of a discovery and tasting tour.

How to get to Portland?

You will arrive by air at Portland International Airport, less than 7 km from the city centre.

From Paris, you have to count between 12 hours and 24 hours, because you need to make a stopover or even several. The journey time will therefore vary according to the selected airline, the transit time between the two aircraft and the location of the port of call. Several airlines offer the flight from Paris to Portland as Air France with a stopover in Los Angeles or Air Canada and American Airlines. Whatever the company of your choice, find a cheap flight on our partner's website Ulysses .

Upon arrival in Portland, in the center of the terminal, you will have access to shuttles or taxis that will lead you to downtown in about 30 minutes. For greater freedom of movement, you can also opt for car rental . Finally, know that Portland enjoys a wide public transport network.

Where to stay in Portland?

If you choose to visit Portland, it is essential to choose where to stay. You can read our article on neighbourhoods where to stay in Portland : you will find the best tips to find out where to sleep and choose your accommodation. In Portland, it is easy to find a hotel, a hostel or an apartment for rent. Whether they are rental or rental platforms Compare hotels , everyone will find his account there. A tip: depending on your activities and the type of stay you choose, take the time to browse the different offers a few weeks before the big start.

Do not delay, and go to discover this authentic city of the United States! Are you still wondering what to do in Portland?