Portland on a Budget: Cheap Thrills Galore

Experience hipster heaven on a budget in Portland, USA.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Small-Budget, Big Fun

  • Start your day with a caffeine kick at Stumptown Coffee Roasters, a hipster haven in downtown Portland.
  • Head to the iconic Powell's City of Books, one of the world's largest independent bookstores with over one million books in stock.
  • Take a stroll through the historic Pearl District, known for its art galleries, unique shops, and trendy restaurants.
  • Grab a bite at Nong's Khao Man Gai, a beloved food cart that serves up delectable Thai chicken and rice at a reasonable price.
  • Explore the beauty of Portland's public parks with a visit to Washington Park, home to the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum and the International Rose Test Garden.
  • End your day at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade, a retro spot that promises an evening of fun with a mix of classic and contemporary arcade games, all for a handful of quarters.

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.

More travel plans

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As a tourist visiting Portland, you can expect to experience a unique blend of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and avant-garde cuisine. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Hood, stroll through the lush Lan Su Chinese Garden, and indulge in some of the best craft beer and coffee in the country. Be sure to explore the city's thriving arts and music scene, and don't miss out on the charming street fairs and festivals.