Portland Things to Do

This longtime downtown church has been a neighborhood fixture since the 1860s, making it one of the oldest around. The historic structure is resplendent with immense pillars and multiple-paned windows. The progressive members a... more

Built in 1916, the Vista House stands as a monument to the Oregon Pioneers and is one of the most-photographed icons of the Columbia Gorge. Sitting 733 feet above the Columbia River, you can enjoy magnificent views while taking... more

On Sauvie Island, you will find Howell Territorial Park, a post that was an integral part of river trading, settlement and farming in the Portland area. Built in 1858, the house is still there and can be toured. Inside, you wil... more

This two-mile jaunt takes you through one of the most historic parts of Portland. The old trees, horse rings on the curbs, and enormous city homes hark back to another time. The walking tour takes you past craftsman, colonial,... more

Fashioned after Washington DC, this neighborhood was the brainchild of William S. Ladd, the fifth mayor of Portland. Like spokes on a bicycle, the streets radiate from the central park. In 1891, Ladd began developing this close... more

Built in 1966 and named for P. A. Marquam, a county judge, this four-lane, double-decker monstrosity is also known as the I-5 Bridge. The much-needed span is not one of Portland's prettiest bridges, but the view should not be m... more

Adjoining two nearby state parks, this section of winding path takes hikers high on the banks above the Columbia River Gorge. It is one of the less-traveled trails in the Columbia Gorge. In addition to the wide river vistas, th... more

Known as the highest point in the city, this spot is where Native Americans once held council. It affords incredible views of the local mountains, the coastal range and, of course, the city. At the top of the hill, park your ca... more

This boulevard is named for James Terwilliger, one of downtown's first inhabitants. He acquired this land through a series of trades and it eventually became the first tract of the parkway. The 2.5-mile stretch of Terwilliger B... more

Take the historic Columbia River Highway and this is the first park you will find. With a view rivaled only by nearby Crown Point, you can see the historic Vista House with the wide Columbia River and gorge as a back drop. Perf... more