Awesome Things to Do in Portland for Free
Portland, Oregon is a city like none other. I should know – I lived there for over 20 years.
Known for its offbeat charm, artistic soul, and fiercely independent spirit, the City of Roses is a haven for creatives, nature lovers, foodies, and anyone who marches to the beat of their own drum. It’s a city that embraces the weird (you’ve seen the bumper stickers), but also delivers some of the most beautiful natural surroundings and unique urban experiences in the country.
30+ Free Things to Do in Portland, Oregon
What’s even better? So much of Portland’s magic is absolutely free. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler, a curious local, or just looking to soak up the city without spending a dime, this list of 33 free things to do in Portland will keep you inspired and entertained.
Explore the International Rose Test Garden
Location: Washington Park
This iconic garden boasts over 10,000 roses and offers sweeping views of downtown and Mount Hood on clear days. It’s fragrant, colorful, and quintessentially Portland. They don’t call it the City of Roses for nothin’.
Wander the Portland Saturday Market
Location: Washington Park
This iconic garden boasts over 10,000 roses and offers sweeping views of downtown and Mount Hood on clear days. It’s fragrant, colorful, and quintessentially Portland.
Walk Through Forest Park
Location: Northwest Portland
One of the largest urban forests in the U.S., Forest Park has over 80 miles of trails. The 5-mile Wildwood Trail is a popular option for a forest escape right in the city.
Visit Powell’s City of Books
Location: Pearl District
It costs nothing to browse this world-famous independent bookstore. Lose yourself in a labyrinth of color-coded rooms filled with new and used books. You really can spend all day here; there’s even a small cafe for when you get peckish in between book finds. Powell’s has several smaller locations peppered throughout town.
Tour the Portland Art Museum During Free Days
Location: Downton Portland
While it’s not always free, admission is waived the first Thursday evening of every month. A great chance to see world-class exhibits for free.
Relax in Laurelhurst Park
Location: Southeast Portland
This scenic city park features a serene duck pond, towering trees, and people-watching galore. It’s perfect for a picnic or a casual stroll.
Stroll the Alberta Arts District
Location: Northeast Portland
This vibrant neighborhood is full of street art, murals, and quirky shops. Every last Thursday, Alberta Street hosts a free art walk with music and performances. I’ve written a separate post about this wonderful part of Portland.
Take in the Views from the Grounds of Pittock Mansion
Location: West Hills
While there’s a fee to go inside Pittock Mansion, the grounds and gardens are completely free to roam. You’ll get one of the best panoramic views of Portland—especially at sunrise or sunset—with the city skyline framed by Mount Hood in the distance.
Catch a Sunset at Council Crest Park
Location: Southwest Hills
The highest point in Portland offers panoramic views of five Cascade peaks (on a clear day). It’s one of the city’s best-kept scenic secrets.
Cross the Tillikum Crossing Bridge
Location: South Waterfront to Eastbank Esplanade
Only a few years old, this pedestrian, bike, and transit-only bridge offers stunning views of the city and the Willamette River. It lights up beautifully at night.
Walk the Eastbank Esplanade
Location: Along the Willamette River
Directly east across the river from downtown Portland, a flat, paved riverfront path with views of downtown, bridges, and plenty of public art. Ideal for walking, biking, or watching the river flow.
Experience First Thursday Art Walks
Location: Pearl District
On the first Thursday of each month from April to end of September, galleries in this trendy part of Portland open their doors for free art receptions and exhibits, often with wine and music. It’s a great neighborhood to grab a meal at one of the brewpubs nearby, as well.
Visit the Hoyt Arboretum
Location: Washington Park
With 12 miles of trails and over 2,300 species of trees and shrubs, this living museum of plants is peaceful and educational.
Admire the Street Murals
Location: All over the city, especially SE Division, Alberta, and Mississippi Ave
Portland’s walls are a canvas. A self-guided street art tour is a must for fans of urban creativity. Read my blog post dedicated to street art in the city.
Check Out the Portland Aerial Tram (from the ground)
Location: South Waterfront
While the tram ride costs money, the surrounding area and South Waterfront Park are perfect for exploring and offer views of the trams floating overhead. And if you want to to to the top of Pill Hill, round trip tickets are less than $10. Not a lot of dough for a killer view!
Go Window Shopping on NW 23rd Ave
Location: Northwest Portland
This trendy shopping street is perfect for people-watching, exploring boutiques, and enjoying the charming Victorian architecture. It is my absolute favorite part of town. Read my blog post about this neighborhood shopping and dining gem!
Attend a Free Event at Pioneer Courthouse Square
Location: Downtown Portland
“Portland’s Living Room” hosts hundreds of free events each year—from concerts and festivals to movie nights and cultural celebrations.
Walk the Labyrinth at The Grotto
Location: Northeast Portland
This Catholic sanctuary has a beautiful outdoor labyrinth and peaceful grounds that are free to explore at street level.
Visit Cathedral Park Under the St. Johns Bridge
Location: North Portland
With gothic arches, river access, and fantastic photo ops, this spot under one of Portland’s most beautiful bridges is unforgettable.
Smell the Blooms at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden (Free on Mondays and during winter)
Location: SE 28th Ave & Woodstock Blvd
This garden is free on Mondays and from November to February. During bloom season, it’s a floral explosion.
Catch Live Music at Mississippi Studios
Location: North Mississippi Avenue
Sometimes you can hear live music for free from the patio, especially during outdoor community events and street fairs. I talk more about this neighborhood here.
Visit the Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Location: Washington Park
A powerful and thoughtfully designed memorial that honors the victims of the Holocaust. Open to the public year-round.
Visit the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium
Location: NW Thurman Street
While the full museum experience requires admission, the front gallery and gift shop area of this wonderfully weird attraction is free to explore. It’s filled with bizarre art, oddities, and tongue-in-cheek displays that reflect Portland’s quirky personality. Even a quick peek inside is worth it for lovers of the strange and unusual.
Hang Out in Ladd’s Addition Rose Garden
Location: Southeast Portland
A quiet, tucked-away public rose garden at the center of a historic neighborhood. It’s a local secret.
Explore Mount Tabor Park (an extinct volcano)
Location: Southeast Portland
Hike around a dormant volcano right in the middle of the city. Great views, lush trails, and a unique claim to fame. Read more about this amazing park here.
Walk the Loop at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Location: Southeast Portland
This peaceful wetland area is full of birds, beavers, and quiet nature trails just minutes from downtown. It’s very near the river; part of the reason for the great wildlife.
Take a Free Class or Event at Portland Public Library
Location: Downtown and branches citywide
From author readings to DIY workshops, the library system hosts tons of engaging free events.
Listen to Drum Circles at Colonel Summers Park
Location: Southeast Portland
Warm evenings often bring spontaneous drum circles and community gatherings in this beloved neighborhood park.
See the Benson Bubblers
Location: Downtown Portland
These iconic four-bowl drinking fountains are unique to Portland and make for a fun scavenger hunt across downtown. And yes, the water is drinkable!
Watch Boats at the Waterfront
Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park
From kayaks and dragon boats to passing freighters, Portland’s riverfront is a great spot for boat-watching. Tom McCall Park hosts various outdoor events throughout the warmer months, and this is THE place to be to catch the Cherry Blossoms in spring.
Hike to the Witch’s Castle
Location: Forest Park (via Lower Macleay Trail)
This mossy stone ruin in the woods has become a legendary photo op and eerie urban hike. I also mention this in my Usual Things to Do in Portland post.
Explore the Portland Farmers Market
Location: PSU campus and other neighborhoods
On Saturdays April through October, soak in the atmosphere, listen to live music, and sample free bites at one of the best farmers markets in the country.
Marvel at the Mill Ends Park—the World’s Smallest Park
Location: Downtown Portland
This quirky 2-foot-wide “park” holds the Guinness World Record for being the small park in the world. It’s tiny, silly, and undeniably Portland.
Bonus: Windowshop for Antiques in Sellwood
Location: Sellwood-Moreland Neighborhood
This charming southeast Portland district is filled with antique stores, vintage shops, and quirky collectibles. Even if you’re not buying, browsing the curated treasures is like walking through a museum of the past—eclectic, nostalgic, and totally Portland.
Bonus: Visit the Portland Puppet Museum
Location: Sellwood-Moreland Neighborhood
This delightful little museum is tucked into a residential street and run by passionate puppeteers. Admission is free (though donations are welcome), and you can view a wide variety of puppets from around the world. Occasionally, they host performances and puppet-making demos—check their hours before visiting.
So What Are You Waiting For?
You don’t need a big budget to experience the best of Portland. The city’s free attractions are a testament to its creativity, community spirit, and connection with nature. So go ahead—wander, explore, and keep it weird.