The 7 best ways to experience Portland, Oregon in summer
From chasing waterfalls in the Columbia Gorge to a sailing excursion on the Willamette River, this summer guide to Portland has it all.
From chasing waterfalls in the Columbia Gorge to a sailing excursion on the Willamette River, this summer guide to Portland has it all.
Steeped in diverse culture and surrounded by natural beauty, Portland in summer is full of exciting things to do. While downtown Portland offers a diverse itinerary for art lovers, foodies, and music fans, nature is an equally important part of Portland’s identity. Whether you prefer chasing waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge or attending an electrifying outdoor concert, it’s easy to find a summer activity that piques your interest.
From the Willamette River to the Oregon Coast, this summer guide to Portland rounds up the seven best sunny-day activities in Portland.
Portland’s best summer activities at a glance
Best outdoor activity to soak up the sun in Portland: Take a day trip to the scenic Oregon Coast.
Best things to do in Portland for kids and families: Chase waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, or take a relaxing walk through the Portland Japanese Garden.
Best things to do in Portland for couples: Attend an open-air concert under the stars, or relax with a sailing excursion on the Willamette River.
Best cultural experiences in Portland: Support local business owners at Portland’s summer Farmer’s Market, or celebrate Pride Month with a legendary festival and concert.
1. Enjoy the warm weather with a cruise on the Willamette River
Sail past Portland’s landmarks for a unique waterside perspective.
New to the city of Portland? A river cruise is one of the best ways to spot the city’s essential sights and deserves a place at the top of your itinerary of warm-weather activities in Portland. As you float by top landmarks along the Willamette River, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of Portland in summer. Tours will take you past sites like the Steel Bridge and the White Stag Sign, an iconic neon sign and one of the most photographed landmarks in Portland.
History buffs will love learning about Portland’s rich history and hearing the stories behind the city’s most famous sights. Whether you choose an all-inclusive dinner cruise or a romantic sailing trip at sunset, floating down the Willamette River will captivate you.
Discover top activities on the Willamette River
2. Discover Portland’s vibrant summer food cart scene
Savor a variety of local dishes with Portland’s vibrant food scene.
You can smell the aroma of Southeast Portland’s food cart scene long before you can see it, where passionate chefs serve up West Coast favorites like handmade taquitos, Korean barbecue, and fresh seasonal salads. Food isn’t the only thing you’ll find on a Portland street food tour — see the city’s top sights up close, like the Portland Art Museum and the Tom McCall Waterfront Park, with a local guide.
Portland’s vibrant downtown culture and striking local cuisine create a unique and enriching atmosphere. A street food tour is among the best things to do in Portland in summer, providing a delicious and immersive journey.
Book a bike tour of Portland
3. Soak up the sun on a day trip to the Oregon coast
Stroll along Cannon Beach and appreciate it’s striking beauty.
The Oregon Coast, with its views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastlines, and quaint seaside towns, is perfect for a day trip. The scenic Pacific Coast Highway, one of the West Coast’s most stunning roadways, leads you to the Oregon Coast in under an hour and a half from Portland. Known for its breathtaking scenery, old-growth forests, and postcard-worthy beaches, the Oregon Coast is the ideal place to escape the city.
Take a guided tour to Cannon Beach, named one of the Top 100 Most Beautiful Places in the World by National Geographic, and see the historic Haystack Rock, one of Oregon’s most recognizable landmarks. Explore the natural beauty of Ecola State Park on a hike, or go swimming on Short Sand Beach for a nature-filled summer getaway.
Discover top activities on the Oregon Coast
4. Uncover the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge in summertime
See the stunning vistas of the Columbia River Gorge.
While Portland is known for its dense urban areas and diverse culture, the city also serves as a gateway to the dense forests and natural wonders of the Great Northwest. The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a river canyon stretching 80 miles long (about 129 kilometers) and 4,000 feet deep (approximately 1,219 meters), located just twenty minutes from Portland. It’s set against the majestic peaks of the Pacific Northwest Cascade Mountain Range, making for the perfect place to take photos.
The landscape unfolds before you as you meander through scenic cliffs, towering spires, and rolling ridgelines along the historic Columbia River Highway. Discover hidden waterfalls, go mountain biking, or try your hand at water sports on Hood River, known as the windsurfing capital of the world.
Discover the best outdoor attractions in the Columbia River Gorge
5. Unwind with a stroll through Portland’s shaded Japanese Garden
Find peace in the paths of Portland’s Japanese Garden.
Just outside Portland’s downtown district, you’ll find the Portland Japanese Garden, considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. Favored by both locals and tourists alike, the Portland Japanese Garden is a tranquil urban oasis encompassing 12.5 (5.1 hectares) acres and has eight separate garden styles.
While exploring the garden, you’ll pass babbling streams, lush walkways, and traditional Japanese architecture, all with a breathtaking view of Mount Hood. In the summer, the Portland Japanese Garden is a lush paradise with irises in bloom and koi swimming in the pond, making it the perfect place to take a break from bustling city life.
Address
611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205.
Opening hours
Open Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM–3:30 PM
Discover Portland’s best gardens and parks
6. Attend an outdoor summer concert series in Portland
Enjoy live music under the open sky along Portland’s riverside.
Grab your picnic blanket, pack some snacks, and enjoy an evening under the stars at an open-air concert in Portland. Whether you like jazz, classical, folk, or blues, you’re sure to find a performance that piques your interest.
Attend Noon Tunes, a free lunchtime concert series held in Pioneer Square, every Tuesday and Thursday from June 4 to July 30 for the best free outdoor concert in Portland. Or if you love jazz, check out the Cathedral Park Jazz Festival, another free concert series held July 19-21 beneath St. Johns Bridge.
Known for being one of the best places to celebrate Pride, Portland also hosts a spectacular concert at the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival, held July 19–20.
7. Shop seasonal produce and unique souvenirs at the Portland State University Farmer’s Market
Explore the colorful produce of Portland’s bustling farmers market.
Visit the bustling Portland State University Farmer’s Market, and familiarize yourself with the sights, sounds, smells, and flavors of Portland’s hyper-local food scene. Browse artisan sweets, bottled homemade sauces, and a colorful variety of in-season produce as you wander through rows of inviting stalls. Summer is the best time to visit farmers’ markets in Portland because of the variety and quality of seasonal produce available.
The Portland State University Farmer’s Market is one of the city’s largest and most popular. However, other markets throughout downtown Portland, like the Shemanski Park Market, are well worth visiting too. Though they have smaller selections of curated goods and unique summertime offerings.
Address
1803 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97201.
Opening hours
Open Saturdays, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
FAQs: The 7 best ways to experience Portland, Oregon in summer
1. How many days should you spend in Portland?
Two to three days are ideal for exploring Portland’s main attractions, especially if you stay near downtown. Plan for at least five days for a more comprehensive experience, including trips to Mount Hood, the Columbia Gorge, the Oregon Coast, or exploring local neighborhoods.
2. Is there nightlife in Portland?
Portland boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, live music venues, and top-notch comedy clubs. Popular areas to explore include Northeast Portland, the Pearl District, and Old Town Chinatown, home to the city’s entertainment district.
3. What is the coolest part of Portland?
Southeast Portland captures the essence of the city with its vibrant arts scene, unique charm, and culinary delights. This area boasts popular neighborhoods, bustling food and drink spots, and tranquil parks, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Portland.
4. What is Portland known for?
Portland is renowned for its lively coffee culture, flourishing craft breweries, and commitment to sustainability. The city is also famous for its numerous parks, iconic bridges, and extensive network of bike paths, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. How long is the Portland Waterfront Loop?
The Portland Waterfront Loop is a scenic 2.6 mile (4.2 kilometer) trail that connects the Steel Bridge and Hawthorne Bridge. It winds through Tom McCall Waterfront Park, offering views of the Willamette River to your left.
6. What outdoor activities can you enjoy in Portland during the summer?
Portland offers a variety of outdoor activities in the summer, including hiking in Forest Park, cycling along the Springwater Corridor, or kayaking on the Willamette River. The city is also home to beautiful gardens like the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden, perfect for leisurely strolls. For those interested in more adventurous pursuits, the nearby Columbia River Gorge offers excellent opportunities for windsurfing and rock climbing.
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