Begin your trip with a stroll through Pioneer Courthouse Square, the "living room" of Portland. Then, head to the Powell's City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world. After that, grab a bite to eat at the Pine Street Market, an artisanal food hall. End the day with a visit to the Portland Art Museum, which houses more than 42,000 works of art from around the world.
Take a day trip to the stunning Cannon Beach, known for its iconic rocky shoreline and Haystack Rock. Take a leisurely walk along the beach and marvel at the many tide pools that can be seen at low tide. Visit the Ecola State Park, one of the most photographed spots on the Oregon coast, and hike through the beautiful forests within it. End your day with a picture-perfect sunset at the famous Haystack Rock.
Spend a day in Washington Park, where you can visit several attractions, including the International Rose Test Garden, which has over 10,000 roses of 650 different varieties. Next, head to the Oregon Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals. Take a relaxing walk through the Japanese Garden, one of the most beautiful and tranquil places in Portland. End the day with a visit to Pittock Mansion, an elegant French Renaissance-style mansion that provides stunning views of Portland.
Explore the stunning Columbia River Gorge, which spans more than 80 miles and offers countless hiking trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints. Visit the Multnomah Falls, one of the most visited natural recreation sites in Oregon. Hike the Oneonta Gorge Trail, which includes a unique "slot canyon." End the day with a visit to the Vista House, an observatory that provides breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Portland is a pedestrian-friendly city with many public transportation options. The city has a bike-sharing program, and ride-shares like Uber and Lyft are widely available. The Portland Streetcar runs throughout the city center, and the MAX Light Rail provides train service to the suburbs and airport. Expect to pay $5 for a day pass and $2.50 for a single-ride ticket on MAX Light Rail. For a more scenic transportation experience, consider renting a car to explore the beautiful surrounding areas.
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Mount Hood, which is just an hour away from Portland. If you have less time, consider skipping a few attractions or shortening your visit time. Keep in mind that many attractions close early, so plan your schedule accordingly.
The main airport for Portland, Oregon is the Portland International Airport (PDX). It is located 6 miles (approximately 15 minutes) from Downtown Portland. The airport is served by many airlines, including Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. Other airports in the area include the Portland-Hillsboro Airport (HIO), which is located 19 miles west of Portland, and the Portland-Troutdale Airport (TTD), which is located 12 miles east of Portland.