If you’re short on time while visiting Portland Oregon, below is a list of some great options (some not so obvious). For each day that you have in Portland, mix one item from the ‘A’ list with one or two from the ‘B’ list below.
For on-demand info, be sure to download the Portland app (iOS / Android).
Many thanks to Travel Portland for the passes.
A Options
If you go after December 2015, you will get to experience the brand new elephant area (see end of below video)!
Multnomah Falls, Columbia River Gorge
This gem is located 40 minutes outside Portland by car. It offer hiking trails for different levels and beautiful scenery throughout. At a minimum, good running shoes are recommended, if not full hiking boots.
If you need a quiet place to calm your mind, the Portland Art Museum is the place.
With regular features and a great set up Picasso and Monet paintings, it’s a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
One of the nation’s leading science centers. More info at OMSI.
B Options
World Forestry Center (alongside the Zoo option from above)
Across from the Oregon Zoo, this hidden gem offers great interactive learning opportunities in a large two-story log-cabin building.
Portland Children’s Museum (alongside the Zoo option from above)
From camps to classes to birthday parties, this is the place to take your kids (and maybe even get a break).
If you’re looking for calmness and beauty, this is the place. Not to mention a great place for Instagram photos.
A small museum that offers different features throughout the year. Also, their gift shop offers many unique ideas and most items sold there are made locally.
http://www.museumofcontemporarycraft.org/
The National Sanctuary of our Sorrowful Mother, popularly known as The Grotto, is a Catholic shrine and sanctuary
