Looking for some places to visit in Portland? You’re in luck because in this week’s blog post, we’re giving you a list of the best places to visit here. If you like a little bit of nature, history, and outdoor activities, we’ve got you covered! Excited to know which places you should go to? Read ahead!

Washington Park

Looking for a spot with lots of other sights to see? Make sure to visit Washington Park. It is one of the oldest parks in the city and is filled with history and some of the best-known attractions in Portland. Whether you are interested in nature, history, or animals, there’s something for you to do around Washington Park.

Some of the other famous attractions nearby are the Oregon Zoo, Portland Children’s Museum, International Rose Test Garden, and the Portland Japanese Garden. The park is so famous that parking tends to be limited. Make sure to consider other modes of transport when you come to visit.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Nestled in the heart of Portland is Lan Su Chinese Garden. It is considered one of the most authentic gardens of its type outside of China. Visitors here can enjoy an inspiring experience based on a 2,000-year-old Chinese tradition that melds art, architecture, design, and nature in perfect harmony.

The attraction offers activities such as storytelling, calligraphy demonstrations, tea-drinking, and Tai Chi for those looking for some inner zen. Its mission is to let people appreciate the tranquil beauty of nature while engaging the community to appreciate the rich Chinese culture.

The inside of the garden feels larger than it looks from the outside. It also offers a sense of calm in contrast to the bustling downtown. This place is an amazing option if you want to find inner peace.

Pittock Mansion

Built in 1914 for one of Oregon’s richest families, the Pittock Mansion is a wonderful place to see Portland’s great past. The mansion was created for Henry Pittock and was later saved from demolition and offered to the public as a historic house museum in 1965. It has undergone several renovations throughout the years but visitors are amazed by the preservation of its interior.

Advanced time tickets are required to enter the museum. There are friendly and knowledgeable guides inside that will teach you not only about the house but also about the history and time the mansion was built.

The grounds surrounding the mansion also offer the most beautiful panoramic views of Portland, the Willamette River, and the Cascade Mountains. Those who have visited the area strongly recommend dropping by. Others even take a trip just to revisit the spot due to the spectacular skyline views.

Multnomah Falls

If you want an in-depth immersion with nature, make sure to visit Multnomah Falls. This wonderful scenery is located just 30 miles east of Portland and is free to visit year-round. It is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest with more than two million people dropping by each year.

Multnomah Falls stands at 620 feet and has two main trails to reach different points. There is a 1/4 mile trail going to Benson Bridge where you can take a closer look at the falls. Another option is a steep, mile-long trail going to the top where you can see incredible views of the Columbia River Gorge. Walking on either trail is a wonderful way to enjoy the glory of nature.

Frequenters warn about big crowds especially in the summer so make sure to come early to get the best views. Parking is also limited but you can take the Columbia Gorge Express shuttle instead to save yourself from the hassle. A gift shop, restroom, and a restaurant are available on the base of the falls for visitors to enjoy.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Just outside of Portland lies the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It marks the end of the Oregon-Washington state border and this scenic byway is a perfect way to witness the beauty of the region. You can see the largest river in the Pacific Northwest as well as several viewpoints and hiking trails along the way.

Aside from the Multnomah Falls, Oneonta Gorge and Latourell Falls can also be seen in the area. People usually stop by these amazing spots to adore the beauty of the surroundings and to take photos of the astonishing scenery.

You can also visit Vista House at Crown Point, the Angel’s Rest hiking trail, or go camping at the gorge at Ainsworth State Park. There are also endless views of steep canyons that contain the Columbia River. This short drive from Portland is an awesome way to discover one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon.

That’s it for the list of must-visit places here in Portland. Please take note that each attraction is practicing safety protocols due to the ongoing global pandemic. Make sure to check out their websites to check out their guideline before visiting and remember to keep yourself safe.