It’s true: Northwest really is best! Portland perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the PNW. From the quirky vibe, to killer scenery, and some bomb food, here’s how to spend 2 days in Portland, Oregon!
Day 1: City of Portland
If this is your first trip to Portland, you’ll want to hit the highlights! If you’re a seasoned traveler to Stumptown, you may find some of these a little “cliche” – but hey, everyone’s a tourist at some point right? The “highlights” are “highlights” for a reason, and I would never steer you wrong. 😉
Downtown Portland
You will start your first of 2 days in Portland, Oregon by heading downtown and hitting the iconic staples. Make your first stop Powell Bookstore. This place is huge, and not just for book lovers! I am not a huge reader, but this store had books that even I was interested in (and ended up loving)! You could easily spend hours here, which is why I recommend it as a first stop! Take as much time as you’d like getting lost in the aisles.
After you’ve picked up some reading material for the plane ride home, walk down Burnside Street for a stop at Voodoo Doughnuts. Unless you get there early, expect a wait (but don’t worry, the doughnuts are worth it!). Whether you want a simple doughnut or one topped with Oreos, cereal, or even bacon- this place is it. If you’re lucky enough to be in town on a Saturday, the Portland Saturday Market is also nearby and is a great way to spend a couple hours strolling and shopping from local vendors
Keep Portland Weird
To see some quirky Portland sites, visit Mill Ends Park, the smallest park in the world. It used to be a hole that held up a street light, but is now a hilarious little patch with a tree that is actually recognized as a park. The park is decorated by season, and is a fun addition to your itinerary! For a photo op, stop by the iconic Keep Portland Weird mural (click here for an exact pin).
Views, views, views
For killer views of the entire city (and beyond), take a ride on the Portland Aerial Tram. The tram leaves every few minutes and tickets can be purchased on site for only $5.00 round trip.
And while not technically in Portland (actually about a 40 minute drive away), the views at Jonsrud Viewpoint are worth the drive. You will get sweeping and unobstructed views of Mount Hood. Can’t beat a sunset here! On your drive, stop by the town of Boring, OR, the sister city to Dull, Scotland, and Bland, NSW, Australia for some hilarious pics.
Tiny House Hotel
To wrap up your quirky day, spend the night at The Tiny House Hotel! Pick out your own one of a kind custom tiny house and make it your home for a night! This was such a fun addition to our itinerary and we loved every second. The grounds actually host about a half dozen tiny houses in a circle making for a little community. Each night (weather permitting), enjoy a campfire with free s’mores!
Day 2: Columbia River Gorge
Alright, another one that’s not technically in Portland. But even on a tight itinerary, it’s worth an entire day! Get in touch with nature in the Columbia River Gorge. The entrance is about a 30 minute drive east of the city and is full of views, hikes, and waterfalls to explore!
Multomnah Falls
The most iconic waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge is Multomnah Falls. This 600 foot waterfall is an absolute must-see on your day of exploration. There is a small bridge to walk out on and get up close with the falls. More adventurous travelers can hike the Multomnah Falls Trail, up 11 switchbacks to the top of the falls. Views for days!
Waterfalls For Days
The gorge is a true waterfall-lovers paradise! Drive further down the road through the gorge and stop at Horsetail Falls (which you can see from the road), Elowah Falls (reached by a short hike) and Dry Creek Falls (reached by an easy hike). On your way back, stop at Bridal Veil Falls for an easy stop, or hit up nearby hiking trails if you’d like.
Hood River Waterfront Park
The Hood River Waterfront Park is located on the far end of the gorge, about an hour drive from Portland (if you don’t make any stops). Located inside the town of Hood River, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and activities to wrap up your day. A small crescent-shaped beach is located right on the river and has great views of the scenery and the state of Washington on the other side. After a day of hiking, this will be a welcome dose of R&R!
Wrapping up
While 2 days in Portland, Oregon may not seem like enough (and it really isn’t), it is still possible to see the sights! With a little bit of planning, you can get a healthy blend of urban, nature, and quirky- the three things that Portland is known for! If you have more time, consider a drive down the Oregon Coast. If you have about a week to devote, venture even further down through the entire Pacific Northwest!
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