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One day is definitely not enough time to explore all that Portland Oregon has to offer. However, if you are short on time or just want to hit the highlights, this Portland one day itinerary will help you make the most of your visit. From exploring downtown and the waterfront, to checking out some of the city’s famous parks and gardens, there is something for everyone in Portland. So if you want to know how to spend one day in Portland, Oregon, this post will help you plan your trip.

How to Get Around Portland

Portland is a very walkable city, with a vast network of public transportation including buses, light rail, street cars and the aerial tram. For visitors without a car, public transportation is the best way to get around. The MAX light rail system connects the airport with downtown, while the bus system covers most of the city. Portland also has a number of car rental companies, making it easy to explore beyond the city limits.

What to Pack for One Day in Portland

If you are planning to spend time in Portland in the fall, winter or sping, be sure to bring a rain jacket. It rains most days during those three seasons. Check out this post for things to do in Portland on a rainy day. However in the summer, it will likely not rain at all so a rain jacket is unecessary during the summer. If you are sticking to the city, wear comfortable shoes and clothes. If you are planning to do any hiking make sure to pack layers, hiking boots, and a hiking pack.

How to Spend One Day in Portland, Oregon

Quirky and weird, hip and sustainable – you will definitely wish you had more than one day in Portland Oregon. There is so much to do and see in and around the city. Hopefully you arrived well-rested and ready to take on an epic day. So let’s dive into the best things to do in Portland.

Grab Some Coffee in Downtown

If there’s one thing that Portland is known for its amazing coffee. So, embrace the city’s undying love for Java and explore the cool coffee shops and artisan coffee roasters that occupy the streets of downtown Portland.

In particular, Stumptown Coffee Roasters is an excellent place to grab a latte, flat white, or macchiato since they are well-known in the city and even have locations set up all across the country.

Alternatively, you could also visit Case Study Coffee Roasters since they are a popular micro-roastery with incredible coffee and baked goods.

Powell’s City of Books

Occupying an entire city block on the northern end of the downtown area, Powell’s City of Books is an icon in the city that is home to over 4 million books.

Therefore, it is easily one of the biggest independent bookstores on the planet and is well worth a visit during your one day in Portland Oregon.

So, take as much or as little time as you need to explore the seemingly neverending stacks of books that sit here.

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Visit Downtown Portland

Portland, Oregon is a city that offers plenty of activities for visitors. A day spent in downtown Portland can include exploring the city’s unique neighborhoods, shopping at local boutiques and farmers’ markets, and enjoying the city’s lively restaurant and bar scene. Some must-see attractions in downtown Portland include the Portlandia statue, the Pioneer Courthouse Square, and the Tom McCall Waterfront Park. If it’s warm outside, consider kayaking on the Willamette River which will give you a unique perspective on downtown.

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to spend a day in Portland, Oregon, head to the International Rose Test Garden and the Japanese Garden. The International Rose Test Garden is the oldest rose garden in the United States, and it’s home to over 7,000 roses from all over the world. It’s a great place to wander around and take in the beauty of nature. The Japanese Garden is just a few blocks away, and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portland. It’s got tranquil ponds, beautiful gardens, and even a zen garden.

If you’re looking for a great view of Portland, head to the OHSU tram. The tram takes you up to a hilltop that offers a panoramic view of the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also visit the Pittock Mansion, which is located on the same hill. The mansion was built in 1914 and is now open to the public. It’s worth a visit if you’re interested in learning more about Portland’s history.

Pro Tip: Be on the lookout for the immortal Portland Oregon White Stag Sign. It was initially built in 1940 and can be viewed today from Burnside Bridge.

Visit Lan Su Chinese Garden in Chinatown

Well-located in the Chinatown neighborhood, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is about a 10-minute walk from Powell’s City of Books and provides visitors with a much-needed respite from the chaos of the city.

So, after paying $14.00 per adult head inside to experience an incredible variety of plant life that is native to China.

Along the way, you’ll also walk beneath covered walkways, over stunning bridges, and through gorgeous pavillions as you admire bamboo, orchids, waterlilies, and more.

Eat some great food

You can’t possibly spend one day in Portland without eating some amazing food. In fact, Portland, Oregon is a foodie’s paradise. There are endless options for where to get good food in Portland, but some of the best restaurants include Pok Pok, Le Pigeon, Gado Gado, and Biwa. If you’re looking for something more casual, Portland is home to some of the best food carts in the country. A few favorites include Nong’s Khao Man Gai, Potato Champion, and The Maine Lobster Lady. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Portland has you covered.

Pro Tip: Love sugar? Then be sure to stop by the world-famous Voodoo Doughnut. After all, this place was featured in Anthony Bourdain’s TV show and is known for its quirky vibe and colorful treats.

Lines can be long though so be sure to arrive right when then open so you can order tasty treats like their “School Daze” and “Chuckles” doughnuts.

Visit the Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular sight. The waterfalls are especially impressive. Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and can be seen from the highway. There is a short hike to the base of the falls that is well worth it. Vista House is also a must-see stop. It offers stunning views of the gorge from atop Crown Point. With more time or an outdoor-focused itinerary, check out the best hikes in the Columbia River Gorge.

Check out Mt. Hood

If you’re looking for a breathtaking view, Mt Hood is the place to go. The mountain is located about an hour outside of Portland and makes for a great day trip. There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, and the views of the surrounding countryside are incredible. Be sure to pack a lunch, because there are plenty of picnic spots to choose from. If you are short on time, Trillium Lake is one of the best places to visit in Oregon and it is an epic sunrise or sunset spot near Portland.

One Day in Portland Oregon FAQ

Is One Day Enough for Portland?

No, one day in Portland Oregon is not enough time. After all, there is a ton to do and see around the city, especially when you start considering the area around Portland, including Columbia River Gorge, Silver Falls State Park, and Hood River.

How Long Should I Spend in Portland Oregon?

If you just want to explore the city itself and stay within the downtown area then you can see most of the major attractions within two to three days.

However, if you would like to explore the Oregon Coast, Mount Hood, Columbia Gorge, and the area surrounding Portland then plan to spend at least five days in the city.

Is 2 days Enough in Portland?

2 days will be enough time to see most of the city’s major attractions and to get a feel for the nightlife scene.

Because while Oregon is the state’s largest city, most of the area’s major highlights are well-located near one another which makes them easier to visit.

Is There a lot to do in Portland Oregon?

Yes! There is a lot to do in Portland Oregon!

And some of the best things to do in Portland Oregon include:

• Pittock Mansion
• Voodoo Doughnut
• Forest Park
• Powell’s City of Books
• Oregon Zoo
• Portland Saturday Market
• Portland Art Museum
• Lan Su Chinese Garden.

One Day in Portland Oregon

If you’re looking for a fun and interesting city to spend a day in, Portland, Oregon is the perfect place. There are tons of things to do and see in this vibrant city, so it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this one day itinerary for Portland. With our help, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this amazing city!

Have you visited Portland? What was your favorite thing that you did while you were there?

You May Also Enjoy These Posts:

• Weekend Getaways from Portland
• Best Waterfalls in Oregon
• Best Columbia River Gorge Hikes
• Best Waterfalls near Portland
• Best Wildflower Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge
• 10 Places to Visit in Oregon
• Easy Hikes near Portland Oregon

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