Best Tourist Spots in Portland

On a delightful trip to Portland, explore the most visited landmarks, attracting millions of visitors every year. From the City of Roses, comes Old Town Historic District, Pioneer Courthouse Square, Tom McCall Waterfront Park and beyond. Want to know why PDX is called the Rose City? Stop by the International Rose Test Garden and get all your answers. The best time to plan a vacation here is from June to August. That said, the city is lively all year round and every season offers its own peculiarity, with an array of alluring events.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park

To soak in a breathtaking views of the city's skyline, visit the Tom McCall Waterfront Park, named after a former governor of Oregon. The park stretches several miles ans serves as an adored venue for a picnic, and take part in numerous fun events it hosts, including the famous the rowdy Cinco de Mayo Fiesta and Oregon Brewers Festival. Stop by the Oregon Maritime Center and Museum or stroll around and relax at the Salmon Street Springs Fountain.

Address: SW River Drive | Portland, OR 97204
Website: www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/35300

Pioneer Courthouse Square

This plaza serves multipurpose - shopping venue, cultural and business districts and play hosts to numerous events. You will find the spread of food carts where you can sample many delicious foods. Other focal points in the vicinity are - Pioneer Courthouse, the 'weather machine,' that forcasts rain or shine daily at noon; the waterfall fountain.

Address: 701 Southwest Sixth Avenue, Portland, OR 97204
Website: www.thesquarepdx.org

International Rose Test Garden

You ought to visit International Rose Test Garden to find your answer to why Portland is given the "City of Roses." The American Rose Society created this garden in 1917 that is home to over 500 varieties of roses. Some notable gardens to swing by are - Shakespeare Garde, Gold Medal Garden, miniature rose garden.

Address: 850 SW Rose Garden Way | Portland, OR 97201
Website: www.rosegardenstore.org/thegardens.cfm
**Free Entry

Old Town Historic District

A thriving neighborhood, that shines with red-brick buildings and outdoor history museum during the day. And at night, it takes a totally ravishing form, with top notch sizzling night scene spots and chic restaurants. Take a stroll and explore the Portland Saturday Market, the Skidmore Fountain, the Japanese American Historical Plaza or sit and simply take in the amazing greenery.

Address: Southwest Fourth Avenue and Burnside Street | Portland, OR 97209
Website: www.oldtownchinatown.net

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

If you're accompanied with kids, make sure to stop by Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. A perfect place to learn and get entertained. The interactive museum encompasses 6 halls that consist hands on displays, featured on chemistry, physics, geothermic activity and meteorology. Also step in the Kendall Planetarium or take a Willamette River boat cruise. Wrap up your visit here with a show at the OMNIMAX theater.

Address: 1945 SE Water Avenue | Portland, OR 97214
Website: www.omsi.edu

Oregon Zoo

Fancy exploring over 2000 varied animals from around the globe? Stop at Oregon zoo. From the sights of rare Asian elephants to a rainforest rodent, agouti, this conservation zoo is home to 21 endangered species and over 30 threatened species. You can catch up in summer concerts, celebrated exhibits and special events. Hop on the train that travels along scenic route and help explore the zoo.

Address: 4001 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
503-226-1561
Phone: 503.226.1561
Website: www.oregonzoo.org
Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Powell’s City of Books

Book lovers or not, you ought to visit Powell’s City of Books - the world's largest independent bookstore. Here, you will find an extensive assorted selections of books - new or used books. The three stories high building is massive and when tired exploring the faciltiy, sit yourself down for a cup of coffee at the on site World Cup Coffee shop

Address: 1005 W Burnside | Portland, OR
Website: www.powells.com

Portland Classical Chinese Garden

Outside of China, this is in fact the largest garden of its kind. Immaculately landscaped in traditional Chinese style, the garden exudes tranquility and calmness. The beauty of the venue is enhanced by the presence of small ponds, winding pathways and vast green spaces.

Address: 239 NW Everett Street | Portland, OR 97209
Website: www.portlandchinesegarden.org
Hours: From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m./6 p.m (Seasonal)
Cost: $8.50 - adults and $6.50 - children

Pittock Mansion

This magnificent historic attraction, Pittock Mansion is a 22-room mansion featuring a stunning blend of Victorian and French-Renaissance architectural design. The mansion is decked up with early 20th century furnishings. Avail the guided tour to get a proper exploration of the place and its history. Pick up some handcrafted souvenirs from the gift shop.

Address: 3229 NW Pittock Drive | Portland, OR 97210
Website: www.pittockmansion.org
Hours: From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (February to December). Hours extended the summer months
Cost: $8 (adults) and $5 (children)

Portland's Best Tourist Spots Map Guide