5-Day Epic Adventure Guide to Portland, USA

Experience the charm and quirkiness of Portland, where food, beer and outdoor adventure intertwine.

22 April 2023

As a tourist visiting Portland, one can expect a unique blend of urban culture and natural beauty. The city is known for its craft breweries, farm-to-table dining, and thriving arts scene. Visitors can also explore the nearby Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood for scenic hikes and outdoor activities.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Bridges, Bites and Brews

  • Check in at The Nines, a luxurious and trendy hotel in the heart of downtown Portland
  • Explore the city's famous bridges, including the iconic Steel Bridge and Tilikum Crossing
  • Take a food tour of the city's eclectic culinary scene, trying out local favorites like Voodoo Doughnuts and food cart cuisine
  • Experience Portland's famed craft beer culture with a brewery tour of popular spots like Deschutes Brewery and Rogue Ales
  • Round off the day with a visit to Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore
Day 2

Nature and Nurture

  • Hike up to the stunning views at Pittock Mansion, overlooking the city and Mount Hood
  • Take a stroll through Washington Park's International Rose Test Garden, home to over 10,000 roses
  • Enjoy nature and wildlife at the Oregon Zoo, with exhibits featuring animals from all over the world
  • Take a relaxing dip at Pebblestone Clothing-optional swimming hole, a hidden gem in the Oregon countryside
  • End the day with a soothing soak in the steaming hot springs at Bagby Hot Springs
Day 3

Arts and Culture

  • Marvel at the creativity and innovation of contemporary art at the Portland Art Museum
  • Indulge in artisanal cheese and organic produce at the Portland Farmers Market, a popular spot for locals
  • Go on a street art walking tour with local artists, discovering hidden gems and learning about the city's vibrant graffiti culture
  • Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, featuring hands-on exhibits on topics ranging from physics to marine biology
  • Catch a performance at one of the city's many cultural venues, such as the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall or the Oregon Shakespeare Festival
Day 4

Urban Exploration

  • Rent a bike and cycle through the hip and quirky neighborhoods of Alberta Arts District and Mississippi Avenue, taking in the vibrant street art and unique shops
  • Visit the quirky McMenamins Kennedy School, a former elementary school turned hotel and restaurant, featuring a movie theater and soaking pool
  • Explore the historic Portland Underground tunnels, used for smuggling goods and people during Prohibition and the Chinese Exclusion Act
  • Take a scenic drive out to the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, with stunning waterfalls and hiking trails
  • Indulge in Portland's gastronomy scene with a restaurant crawl, trying out some of the city's most innovative dishes
Day 5

Farewell, Portland

  • Visit the Portland Japanese Garden, a serene oasis blending traditional Japanese architecture and gardens with stunning views of Mount Hood
  • Take a relaxing stroll through the Forest Park, the largest urban forest in the United States, spanning over 5,200 acres
  • Spend some time perusing the eclectic and quirky shops of the Hawthorne District, featuring vintage clothing, rare books and unique gifts
  • Bid adieu to Portland with a rooftop dinner at Departure Restaurant + Lounge, featuring panoramic views of the city and diverse Asian-inspired cuisine
  • Pack up and prepare for your next adventure, already looking forward to your return to the charming and idiosyncratic city of Portland.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Portland, United States by plane is by flying into Portland International Airport (PDX). Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest operate flights to PDX from major cities across the United States.

Car

Driving to Portland, United States is an excellent way to explore the Pacific Northwest region. You can take Interstate 5 (I-5) south from Seattle or north from San Francisco, depending on your starting location. The drive to Portland takes about 3 hours from Seattle and about 11 hours from San Francisco.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no passenger train services that operate to Portland, United States. Therefore, train is not a recommended mode of transportation to get to Portland.

Boat

Traveling to Portland, United States by boat is not a convenient way of transportation. However, there are some cruise lines that operate seasonal routes to the city, such as Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. The cruise ships dock at the Port of Portland, which is located in the city center.

Bus

One of the best ways to get to Portland, United States by bus is by taking the Greyhound bus service. Greyhound operates daily services to Portland from several cities in the United States, including Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Greyhound buses arrive at the Portland Bus Station.

Destination

Portland

Welcome to the city where everyone has a beard, yet somehow still manages to look unique. Portland is where hipsters go to retire and be cool.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Discover Portland: A 2-Day Budget Adventure

With a limited budget, a trip to Portland can still be a fun and affordable experience. Take a stroll through the city's many parks, such as Washington Park or Forest Park, which are free to visit. Explore the city's food truck scene for tasty and inexpensive eats, and visit museums and galleries that offer free admission or pay-what-you-wish options.

Portland on a Budget: Cheap Thrills Galore

Experience the charm and quirkiness of Portland without breaking the bank. Explore the city's vibrant food and arts scene through affordable food trucks and free galleries. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or Airbnb rentals and save money for outdoor adventures, including hiking in nearby national parks and scenic drives along the Pacific coast.

Sweet Escape: A 3-Day Romantic Trip to Portland

Portland is a splendid city in the United States that offers amazing romantic experiences to travelers. Couples can take a stroll through the enchanting Lan Su Chinese Garden, indulge in exquisite dining at award-winning restaurants, and explore the beautiful downtown area while hand in hand. With an array of elegant hotels and plenty of entertainment options, Portland is perfect for a romantic getaway.

Four Days of Family Fun: Portland's Quirky Adventures

Embark on a family-friendly adventure in Portland, United States, filled with captivating sights and activities for all ages. Explore the enchanting Oregon Zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with a variety of animals. Discover the interactive exhibits at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry or take a scenic hike through Forest Park for an unforgettable nature experience that the whole family will treasure.