10 Free Things to Do in Portland

Introduction

Portland, Oregon is an incredible city with a vibrant culture, great food, and plenty of activities to fill your days. Whether you’re a native or a visitor, you will never be bored in Portland. From beautiful parks to farmers markets and art galleries, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, many of these activities are free or low-cost, so you can enjoy them without breaking the bank. Here are 10 free things to do in Portland.

Visit the Japanese Garden

The Portland Japanese Garden is one of the most beautiful places in the city. The garden is a 5.5 acre oasis of serenity and beauty, featuring carefully manicured trees and plants, a tranquil pond, and a peaceful waterfall. A visit to the garden is a great way to spend an afternoon. Admission to the garden is free for Portland residents on the first Thursday of every month.

Explore Powell’s City of Books

Powell’s City of Books is the world’s largest independent bookstore and a beloved Portland landmark. The store has over 9,000 different sections, including new and used books, magazines, and rare books. Whether you’re looking for a new read or just browsing, a visit to Powell’s is sure to be a pleasant experience. The store is open daily and admission is free.

Hike Forest Park

Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the US and a great place to explore nature. The park has over 80 miles of trails, which wind through lush forests and along the banks of the Willamette River. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird watching. Best of all, admission is free.

Go to the Saturday Market

The Portland Saturday Market is a great place to find unique souvenirs, local art, and handmade gifts. The market features over 200 vendors, selling everything from jewelry to clothing to food. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon and admission is free.

Visit the Portland Art Museum

The Portland Art Museum is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the US. The museum features over 30,000 works of art, including a large collection of Native American artifacts, European and American paintings, and modern art. Admission is free for Portland residents on the fourth Friday of every month.

Attend a Performance at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts

The Portland Center for the Performing Arts (PCPA) is home to some of the best performances in the city. The PCPA features concerts, theater productions, dance performances, and other shows. Many of these performances are free or low-cost.

Explore the Portland Farmers Market

The Portland Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade goods. The market takes place every Saturday from March to December and features over 100 vendors. Admission is free and the market is a great place to pick up some souvenirs.

Go to the Oregon Zoo

The Oregon Zoo is a great place for animal lovers. The zoo features over 2,000 animals, including elephants, giraffes, and polar bears. The zoo also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, many of which are free.

Visit the Portland Chinese Garden

The Portland Chinese Garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. The garden features beautiful landscaping, traditional architecture, and tranquil pools. Admission is free for Portland residents on the first Thursday of every month.

Take a Walk in the Pearl District

The Pearl District is a bustling neighborhood in the heart of Portland. The area is filled with restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops. It’s a great place to explore and window shop. Admission is free and the area is a great place to people watch.

Enjoy the View from the Pittock Mansion

The Pittock Mansion is a historic house located on a hill overlooking downtown Portland. The mansion offers spectacular views of the city and is a great place to take a stroll. Admission is free on the first Saturday of every month.

Conclusion

Portland is an incredible city with plenty of free activities to enjoy. From hiking in Forest Park to exploring the Pearl District, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, many of these activities are free or low-cost, so you can enjoy them without breaking the bank. So, next time you’re in Portland, be sure to check out these 10 free activities.