10 Unique Things to Do in Portland, Oregon for First-Time Visitors
You’re here because you’re planning a trip to Portland, Oregon, and want to experience the city beyond the usual tourist spots.
Portland is known for its quirky charm, vibrant food scene, and incredible natural beauty, making it an exciting destination for any traveler.
This guide was written to help you discover the city’s unique offerings that will make your visit unforgettable.
Whether it’s your first time here or you’re just looking to see the city from a fresh perspective, you’re in the right place.
Inside, you’ll find ten unique things to do in Portland that showcase the city’s distinct character and hidden gems.
From exploring lush gardens to discovering the city’s artistic side, each activity on this list offers a different way to connect with Portland.
This list goes beyond the typical attractions and dives into experiences that capture the essence of what makes Portland special.
Get ready to explore this incredible city like a local and make memories that’ll have you wanting to return again and again.
1. Wander Through the International Rose Test Garden
Located in Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden is a must-see for anyone visiting Portland for the first time.
Home to over 10,000 rose bushes and nearly 650 varieties, this garden is a feast for the senses, especially during the blooming season.
The garden not only offers stunning floral displays but also panoramic views of downtown Portland and Mount Hood.
It’s a peaceful spot to stroll, relax, and take in the beauty of the “City of Roses” while learning about new rose varieties being tested.
Whether you’re a garden enthusiast or simply love beautiful scenery, this iconic Portland spot is a delight.
2. Explore Powell’s City of Books, the World’s Largest Independent Bookstore
Powell’s City of Books is a paradise for book lovers and one of Portland’s most famous attractions.
Spanning an entire city block, this massive bookstore is filled with new, used, and rare books in every genre imaginable.
The store’s unique layout, with color-coded rooms and towering shelves, invites you to get lost among its literary treasures.
There’s also a cozy coffee shop inside, perfect for grabbing a cup of coffee and diving into your latest find.
Even if you’re not an avid reader, the atmosphere of Powell’s is an experience in itself and a quintessential part of Portland’s culture.
3. Indulge in a Food Cart Crawl Across the City
Portland’s food cart scene is legendary, boasting some of the most diverse and delicious street food options in the country.
With over 500 food carts scattered throughout the city, you can sample everything from Korean BBQ to vegan donuts in a single afternoon.
Some popular food cart pods include Cartopia on SE Hawthorne and the Downtown Food Cart Pod, both offering a variety of cuisines.
These food carts are a testament to Portland’s love of creativity and community, serving up unique dishes with local flair.
A food cart crawl is an excellent way to taste the flavors of Portland while supporting small, local businesses.
4. Visit the Peculiarium, a Museum of Oddities and Curiosities
The Peculiarium is a quirky and eccentric museum filled with oddities, interactive exhibits, and bizarre art installations.
This unique space is dedicated to the weird, the strange, and the downright peculiar, reflecting Portland’s offbeat personality.
From alien autopsies to Bigfoot sightings, the Peculiarium offers a playful, sometimes creepy, but always fascinating experience.
It’s a fun place for those who enjoy the unusual, offering a side of Portland that’s rarely seen in guidebooks.
Don’t forget to snap a picture in the Bigfoot photo booth or try their quirky snacks at the gift shop!
5. Bike Along the Waterfront on the Eastbank Esplanade
Portland is known as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the US, and the Eastbank Esplanade is a great place to experience it.
This scenic path runs along the Willamette River, offering stunning views of the city skyline, bridges, and waterfront activities.
You can rent a bike from one of the many bike-sharing stations and cruise along this beautiful trail at your own pace.
The esplanade is also great for walking, jogging, or simply sitting by the river and watching the boats go by.
It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy Portland’s outdoor culture.
6. Discover Local Art at the Alberta Arts District
The Alberta Arts District is one of Portland’s most vibrant neighborhoods, filled with galleries, murals, boutiques, and cafes.
This colorful area is known for its creative energy, with art installations and street art covering nearly every corner.
You’ll find plenty of unique shops selling handmade goods, as well as excellent dining options with locally sourced ingredients.
The district comes alive on Last Thursday, a monthly street fair showcasing local artists, musicians, and performers.
A stroll through the Alberta Arts District offers an authentic taste of Portland’s thriving art and cultural scene.
7. Taste Craft Beer at a Local Brewery
Portland is often dubbed “Beervana” due to its extensive craft beer culture, with over 70 breweries within the city.
Each brewery offers its own unique flavors, styles, and atmospheres, from cozy taprooms to lively beer gardens.
Popular spots include Deschutes Brewery, Hair of the Dog, and Breakside Brewery, each offering a distinctive taste of Portland’s brewing creativity.
Many breweries also serve food, making them great places to relax, sample local brews, and enjoy a meal.
Even if you’re not a beer enthusiast, the experience of visiting a Portland brewery is a fun way to connect with the local culture.
8. Stroll Through the Japanese Garden, a Tranquil Oasis in the City
Portland’s Japanese Garden, located in Washington Park, is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan.
This beautifully landscaped garden features serene ponds, traditional tea houses, meticulously pruned trees, and stunning views of Mount Hood.
It’s a peaceful escape from the bustling city, offering a moment of tranquility and reflection among beautifully crafted spaces.
Each section of the garden is designed to represent different elements of traditional Japanese gardening, blending nature and art seamlessly.
The garden also hosts cultural events, tea ceremonies, and art exhibitions that add depth to the experience.
9. Experience the Weirdness at Voodoo Doughnut
Voodoo Doughnut is one of Portland’s most famous spots, known for its quirky, over-the-top doughnuts that are as Instagrammable as they are delicious.
The menu features unique creations like the Bacon Maple Bar and the Voodoo Doll doughnut, complete with pretzel stake and red jelly filling.
The shop’s eccentric decor, pink boxes, and 24/7 operation make it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Portland’s playful side.
There’s often a line out the door, but the wait is part of the experience and totally worth it once you take your first bite.
Voodoo Doughnut is more than just a bakery; it’s a Portland institution that perfectly captures the city’s love of the strange and unusual.
10. Spend an Afternoon in Forest Park, One of the Largest Urban Forests in the U.S.
Forest Park is a massive urban park that offers over 80 miles of hiking and biking trails right within the city limits.
The park’s lush, green landscape provides a beautiful setting for outdoor activities, with trails that cater to all skill levels.
You can explore dense forests, scenic viewpoints, and hidden streams, all while being surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Wildwood Trail is a favorite among locals, offering a winding path through towering trees and a sense of solitude.
Forest Park is a perfect escape for nature lovers looking to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the city.
Conclusion, 10 Unique Things to Do in Portland, Oregon for First-Time Visitors
Portland, Oregon, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, quirky attractions, and vibrant cultural scenes that make it a must-visit destination.
From its lush gardens and expansive parks to its eccentric shops and diverse food scene, Portland promises a one-of-a-kind experience.
These ten unique things to do go beyond the typical tourist attractions, offering you a chance to see the city through the eyes of a local.
Whether you’re exploring art districts, sampling craft beer, or wandering through iconic bookstores, there’s always something new to discover.
So get out there and experience the best of Portland — it’s a city that invites you to embrace the weird, the wonderful, and everything in between.
