From adrenaline-pumping adventure offerings to an amazing local cuisine that nearly jumps on the table from nearby fields and pastures, Portland is awash with opportunities to live, taste, and drink-in urban and adrenaline experiences. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a curious new traveler, Portland promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery, excitement, and endless possibilities.
City and History
Nestled along the banks of the Willamette River, Portland, Oregon, has evolved from a well-kept secret into a busy city with the heart of a small town. You can trace the history of the city through the historic and beautiful bridges that crisscross the Willamette River, all the way up towards the very hills that Sasquatch are purported to call home. With the majestic Mount Hood looming in the distance and the picturesque Tualatin Valley nearby, Portland offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty that attracts visitors from around the globe.
Portland's allure lies in its effortless blend of laid-back charm and vibrant creativity. Portland is known primarily for its thriving beer scene and quirky energy. From its industrial roots, Portland has blossomed into a haven for artists, creatives, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It features hip neighborhoods like Lower East Burnside to its love for bike culture and unique attractions like recycled skateboard jewelry at Maple XO. Portland exudes a distinct vibe that appeals to all.
Adventure
For those eager to explore the great outdoors, Portland serves as the perfect jumping-off base. Home to First Nature Tours, a custom tour company that offers adventures that cater to every whim. You can ski, indulge in a winery lunch in the Willamette Valley, or catch waves along the coast, whatever your vision of adventure is, they will create the supported itinerary.
Embark on a white-water rafting expedition with Blue Sky Rafting on the Upper Clackamas River. Ascend into the treetops at the Tree 2 Tree Aerial Adventure Park for a Tarzan-inspired experience.
For a unique blend of adventure and luxury, indulge in a heli-wine tour departing from downtown Portland–one of only two places in the US where you can be picked up for a commercial adventure on a city rooftop by helicopter. From skyscrapers and spaghetti overpasses to rolling countryside and picturesque vineyards, you can land in the Tualatin Valley to taste wines and learning from passionate winemakers about their craft.
Finish the day with a leisurely game of bocce ball, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and the company of fellow adventurers.
Food and Culture
No visit to Portland is complete without exploring the food scene and rich cultural offerings. In this city, even the cultural experiences can involve adventure activities. Explore the city's culinary delights through immersive experiences like pairing overnight treetop camping with Expedition Old Growth and cedar plank salmon washed down with local craft beer prepared treeside by Grand Fir Brewing. A truly one-of-a-kind backyard cookout amidst the towering Douglas firs.
If your belly is full, try another adventure/culture mashup with music and paddling to Willamette Falls. Music on the Water by eNRG Kayaking features local musicians, like Sunny Pache and Gabriel John, on a voyageur style canoe as they serenade guests that paddle alongside in kayaks and SUPs. Not in town for a show? Simply paddle the same route to discover the city's intriguing creation stories with guided paddling tours from former extreme kayaking champion Sam Drevo, offering insights into Oregon's pioneering spirit and stunning landscapes.
Trip Planner
Tourism Info:
- Travel Portland
- Tualatin Valley
- Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory
- FACEBOOK: @travelportland @VisitTualatinValley @Mt.HoodTerritory
- TWITTER: @travelportland @Tualatin_Valley
- INSTAGRAM: @travelportland @tualatinvalley @mthoodterritory
- HASHTAGS: #ThisIsPortland, #tualatinvalley, #mthoodterritory
Hotels:
Places to Visit, Things to Do:
- MapleXO (upcycled skateborad jewellery) near historic Burnside Skate Park
- Puddle Cutters (Portlands own moped gang)
- Tom McCall Waterfront Park
- First Nature Tours (Custom Luxury Adventure Tours)
- Live Music on the Water with eNRG Kayaking
- Blue Sky Rafting
- Tree2Tree Aerial Adventure Park
- Mt. Tabor Park
- Tree Climbing with Expedition Old Growth
- Bigfoot Adventure Cruise – Portland Spirit
- Festival of Balloons (Tualatin Valley)
- Good in the Hood Multicultural Festival (Mount Hood)
- Escape Room
- Portland Art Museum
- Portland PSU Farmers Market
- Portland Bridges
Restaurants and Bars:
