Portland, Oregon is a fun city to visit for a weekend with a ton of cheap things to do. However, if you have more time it is a superb place to base yourself to take day trips into other areas of the Pacific Northwest. There are so many day trips from Portland to take, you could easily spend several weeks exploring what the region has to offer.
US Ghost Adventures is an awesome company that offers a variety of guided tours and haunted experiences across different cities in the United States. Visitors can learn the compelling history and stories of the paranormal and the city’s darker side. Make sure to check out the variety of tours offered in [Portland] here. They are very affordable too!
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Where to Stay in Portland
TripAdvisor is a great place to start your hotel search. Search for the best Portland hotels here! Also, check out this post with some of my favorite Portland hotels.
The following are some of the best hotels in Portland. *means it is one of my favorites!
- Hilton Portland Downtown
- The Duniway Portland*
- Hyatt Centric Downtown*
- AC Marriott Portland Downtown*
- Moxy Portland Downtown
- Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland
- Home2Suites Portland Airport
- Residence Inn Portland Airport
- Hyatt Place Portland Airport/Cascade Station
- Hampton Inn Portland East
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Drive Time: 1 hour
The Northern part of the Willamette Valley lies about 30 miles or an hour away from Portland. This 150-mile-long valley contains over 700 wineries, some of which have been around since 1984.
The Willamette Valley is one of the best day trips from Portland for wine lovers. You can easily spend an entire weekend exploring the various wineries of the region. However, a day in the Willamette Valley will give you a good sampling of what the region has to offer.
My favorite wineries include Brick House Wines, Adelsheim Vineyard, and Cooper Mountain Vineyards. All three of these wineries produce delicious wines that will leave you wanting more. Tastings usually range from $20 to $35 and the fee is often waived after a couple of bottles are purchased. The region is most widely known for its Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays with a few other varietals thrown in.
Tillamook Creamery, Oregon
Drive Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes
The Tillamook Creamery is one of my favorite day trips from Portland. It takes about an hour and 20 minutes to drive the 75 miles to the Tillamook Creamery. If you love cheese, it is well worth making the trek here.
At the creamery, visitors can go on a self-guided tour to see how Tillamook Cheese is made. You can even grab a sample to munch on as you look around the factory.
I recommend getting there as soon as it opens and grabbing an ice cream to eat as you wander around the exhibits. The exhibits go over how the cheese is made and stored as well as some of the history of Tillamook.
Make sure to check out the store for some rare cheeses and neat merchandise. They have everything from t-shirts to ornaments and every kind of Tillamook Cheese you can imagine.
Plan to grab lunch in the cafe, where every dish uses Tillamook Cheese. I went with a large group, so we pretty much ordered everything off the menu. I highly recommend the cheese curds and the grilled cheese. You will leave the Tillamook Creamery with a belly full of cheese.
Astoria, Oregon
Drive Time: 1 hour, 50 minutes
Although one of the further day trips from Portland, Astoria is well worth a visit. It is almost a 2-hour drive or 100 miles from Portland. If you have more time, I recommend Astoria as a weekend trip as well.
The number one thing to do in Astoria is Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. This site commemorates where Lewis and Clark spend the winter during their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase and Western areas. It costs $10/person to get into the park.
When exploring Astoria as a day trip from Portland, you can also stop at Fort Stevens State Park to see the Oregon Coast and the Wreck of the Peter Iredale. It is a nice area to walk around and take in some fresh air. Other highlights of Astoria include the Goonies House, the Kindergarten Cop School, and the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
If you get hungry, make a stop at the Bridgewater Bistro which has awesome views of the river and the Astoria-Megler Bridge. Spending the day in Astoria will be one of the longer excursions, so plan accordingly.
Vancouver, Washington
Drive Time: 15 minutes
Just north of Portland lies Vancouver, Washington. Many people have heard of Vancouver, Canada, but this fourth-largest city in Washington holds just as many fun things to do. From Portland, it takes about 15 minutes to travel the 10 miles to Vancouver. It is worth taking a day trip from Portland due to its fantastic waterfront and lake area.
The newly developed Vancouver Waterfront hosts several restaurants and a plethora of wine tasting rooms. At the tasting rooms, visitors can sample wine from the Columbia Valley and Walla Walla region in Washington.
Spend part of a day exploring Fort Vancouver National Historic Site to learn about the fur trade on the west coast. This site run by the National Park Service was created by the Hudson Bay Company in 1824. The Pearson Air Museum which houses World War I airplanes is also part of the site.
Visit Vancouver Lake Regional Park for a relaxing day on the lake or take a walk along the Waterfront Resistance Trail. For those interested in the history of the area, a visit to the Clark County Historical Museum is a must-see stop.
Stack 571 Burger and Whiskey Bar, and Lindo Mexico are all terrific restaurants to eat at. Also, make a stop at Dot Donuts for the best donuts in town. If coffee is your thing, make sure to head to Thatcher’s Coffee, Madhouse Coffee Co, or Brewed Awakenings. No matter what, Vancouver has some awesome things to do in a day.
Multnomah Falls, Oregon
Drive Time: 30 minutes
Multnomah Falls is one of the easiest day trips from Portland. It takes less than 30 minutes to travel the 30 miles to get there from downtown Portland. This 620-foot waterfall is one of the most visited and tallest waterfalls in the state. The area became an attraction in the early 1900s when the bridge and lodge were built. Present-day over two million people visit a year.
From the parking lot, it is a short walk to the visitor’s center which is located at the bottom of the falls. Visitors can opt to view the falls from the bottom, take the easy 105-foot walk up to the bridge above the lower falls, or hike all the way to the top of the falls. The top of the falls offers gorgeous views of the Columbia River Gorge and the falls. At the top of the falls are also 5.4 miles of trails to other nearby waterfalls.
Although it is free to visit Multnomah Falls, during the busier season (summertime) you may have to reserve a ticket ahead of time. This helps ensure the falls do not get overcrowded. If you choose to visit in the wintertime, note that the trail to the top of the falls may be closed due to ice.
Salem, Oregon
Drive Time: 45 minutes
Salem, the capital of Oregon, is one of the best day trips from Portland. It is only a 45-minute drive to venture to this fun city. Although you could easily spend an entire weekend exploring, the main sites of Salem can be seen in a day.
Once in Salem, visitors can tour the state capital or just walk around the grounds. The Oregon Garden, the Deepwood Museum and Gardens, and Bush’s Pasture Park Rose Garden are all perfect stops to visit for plant and nature lovers.
Those who love hikes can go on one of the many hikes in the area. The most popular is a hike to North and South Falls, both a part of Silver Falls State Park. You could also go for a walk along the Riverfront City Park. Kids will love Salem’s Riverfront Carousel.
For wine lovers, the area is surrounded by many delicious wineries. Popular ones include Cristom Vineyards, Honeywood Winery, and Redhawk Winery. For dinner, check out Venti’s Cafe. I recommend getting one of the pitas and sweet potato fries. After dinner, head to the cool arcade bar Coin Jam, or to Archive Coffee and Bar for some delicious cocktails.
Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Drive Time: 1 hour
The Columbia River Gorge is located about a one-hour drive, -65 miles from Portland. The Columbia River Gorge is one of the best day trips from Portland due to its gorgeous hiking areas, wineries, and many scenic drives.
One of the most popular activities in the Columbia River Gorge is to go wine tasting. The area contains about 350 acres of vineyards with over 40 wineries in the region. Popular varietals include Syrah, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and Pinot Gris. Two good wineries to stop at are Aniche Cellars and Hawkins Cellars. Aniche Cellars has a gorgeous outdoor seating area with views of Mt. Hood. Hawkins Cellars has a wide variety of wines to try.
Another must-do when in the Columbia River Gorge is all of the hiking trails. There are 12 different trails that range from easy to difficult. Many of them lead to the waterfalls of the area such as Latourell Falls.
You can also opt to float down the river, take a scenic drive along the Columbia River Highway, hit up a brewery (or two), or visit one of the many fruit farms. No matter what there is a ton of outdoor fun to be had in the Columbia River Gorge.
Woodburn, Oregon
Drive Time: 30 minutes
About 30 miles from Portland lies the city of Woodburn, Oregon. It is a quick drive straight down the 5 to get to this town incorporated in 1889. There are a few popular things to do here and makes for one of the best day trips from Portland.
First, shoppers will love the Woodburn Outlets. It has over 350,000 square feet of retail space with over 50 stores. The Woodburn Outlets are one of the largest tax-free shopping centers in the United States. Remember Oregon does not have sales tax, so you can get some great deals at the outlets.
Another popular stop near Woodburn is the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm. This 40-acre farm is known for its massive amounts of Tulips that bloom every year. The tulips usually bloom between March and May, but check their website before you go for more details.
Other things to do in Woodburn include Bauman’s Farm and Garden, Milburn’s Haunted Manor, and of course endless vineyards for wine tasting. A visit to Woodburn makes for a great shopping and outdoor day trip from Portland.
Eugene, Oregon
By Trijit of Budget Travel Buff
Drive Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Eugene is not only an affordable place in Oregon but also one of the best day trips from Portland if you love recreational opportunities, arts, and museums. If you are not a fan of any of these, you can still enjoy several outdoor activities. You will be amazed to know that Eugene is the birthplace of Nike. Eugene is located 109 miles north of Portland. If you drive, it may take around an hour and 40 minutes to reach Eugene. If you take the train usually takes more than two hours.
Art is one of the big parts of Eugene. You can see numerous murals throughout the town. These incredible artworks are done by Muralists from around the world. The best way to explore the murals is to download a mural brochure map and follow the navigation. You can also check out the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural and Cultural History and explore the artifacts, cultural histories, preserved wildlife, and historic photographs.
If you visit Eugene during the weekend, you shouldn’t miss Saturday Farmer’s Market. The market features different types of art, handmade showpieces, fresh farm vegetables, and some small food stalls. Hideaway Bakery is highly recommended for its delicious pastries, artisan bread, and excellent pour-over coffee.
Looking for some outdoor activities? There are several hiking trails in and near Eugene waiting for you. Spencer Butte, Ridgeline Trail, and Ruth Bascom Riverbank Trail are great hikes for all-level hikers. Spencer Butte offers amazing views of Cascade peaks whereas Ruth Bascom Riverbank is ideal for runners and bikers. The city also features many scenic bikeways. You can rent a bicycle and explore this charming town at your own pace.
Hood River, Oregon
By Katie Diederichs from Go Wander Wild
Drive Time: 1 hour
Situated on the banks of the Columbia River, Hood River is a quaint town that has a completely different vibe than quirky and bustling Portland. Just around an hour’s drive from downtown Portland, this charming town makes a perfect getaway even if you’re short on time.
Downtown Hood River is full of cute boutiques, cafes, and art galleries that are fun to pop in and out of. Grab a coffee or ice cream cone (or both!), and explore. Not far from downtown is the riverfront, where you can watch kiteboarders and windsurfers as they effortlessly float atop the water. If it’s a nice day, spread out a blanket on a patch of grass at the public park and soak up the sunshine. There’s also a small beach if you want to dip your toes in the water or take the plunge and go for a swim.
If you’re a craft beer lover, Friem, Full Sail, and Double Mountain are all excellent local breweries to hop between. If you prefer wine you’re in luck because there are some incredible wineries in Hood River with idyllic mountain views. This valley region is known for having a great climate for growing grapes and other fruits. In fact, if you happen to be in the area during the summer and fall seasons, you can follow the Fruit Loop drive and visit all sorts of orchards and farms during their harvesting season. While driving around the Fruit Loop, don’t forget to stop at Panorama Point for sweeping views of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and the surrounding valley.
When the cravings arise, Hood River has some excellent dining options — from casual and affordable fare to foodie-approved fine dining, there’s something for everyone in this small town. Thus, it is one of the best day trips from Portland.
Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument, Oregon
By Erica at Trip Scholars
Drive Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
One of the best day trips from Portland is to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. You will create lifelong memories at this awe-inspiring volcano.
When Mount St. Helens erupted on May 18, 1980, it dramatically reshaped the mountain and created a landscape unlike anywhere else. It was the most destructive and deadliest volcanic event in U.S. history and included the largest debris avalanche in recorded history.
There are a few different day trips available from Portland. The recommended trip for the most dramatic views is the approach from the west side. Your first stop is the visitor center in Castle Rock, just a little over an hour north of Portland (60 miles). Your destination is Johnston Ridge Observatory, which is 2.5 hours (110 miles) from Portland. Consider subsequent day trips to Ape Cave on the south side and Spirit Lake on the east side of the mountain.
Appreciate the views and stops along Spirit Lake Highway as you ascend the mountain. Be sure to enjoy many of the pullouts to take in the ever-changing views. There are three visitor centers on the drive that are worth visiting: the previously mentioned center at the base of the mountain, the Forest Learning Center (operated by the logging company Weyerhaeuser), and the Johnston Ridge Observatory at the end of the road. (Check websites in advance for hours and closures).
At Johnston Ridge, the view in the midst of the blast zone will thrill you. Explore the trails around the area. The visitor center here is exceptional, especially if you are traveling with kids. You will want to spend at least an hour inside, more if you can. If you are able to bring human-powered watercraft with you, launch them at Coldwater Lake for a paddle with breathtaking views. Follow this up with a well-matched hike for your group. Hummocks Trail is a favorite. If you enjoyed your trip, consider another day trip in the future, the volcano is always changing!
Rowena Crest, Oregon
By Brianna of The Casual Travelist
Drive Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
The Columbia River Gorge is chock full of amazing sights and you can easily spend days exploring along one of the most scenic rivers in the Pacific Northwest. A stop at Rowena Crest is a must, and in my opinion, this is one of the best day trips from Portland. Rowena Crest is located 75 miles from Portland and takes just under 90 minutes and is a great stop to include if you plan on visiting Hood River which is just 20 minutes away.
Rowena Crest has a few easy hikes that reward you with stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. The Rowena Plateau Trail is an easy, flat trail that offers expansive views of the basalt cliffs along the Columbia River as well as a dramatic horseshoe curved road. This trail is 2 miles round trip with a gentle 250-foot elevation change.
For a slightly more challenging, but still moderate, hike choose the Tom McCall Nature Preserve Trail. This trail climbs over 1000 feet in elevation and is 3.25 miles round trip with great views of the famous horseshoe bend as well Rowena Plateau itself and sweeping panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge to the east and west.
Mt. Hood, Oregon
By Nick of Wandering Wheatleys
Drive Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Visible from downtown Portland, Mt. Hood should be on the top of everyone’s list of places to visit in Oregon. You will find plenty of great outdoor activities on Mt. Hood regardless of the season. Plus it is just 60 miles from the city so it can be easily reached in about an hour by car. It is one of the best day trips from Portland.
During the summer you can enjoy beautiful hikes, clear mountain lakes, and endless camping opportunities. Three of the best day hikes in the Mt Hood National Forest include Mirror Lake, McNeil Point, and the Paradise Loop. You’ll also want to stop by the Timberline Lodge for a beer and a meal after a long day of hiking. This beautiful mountain lodge was built in 1937 and was even featured in the movie The Shining!
In the winter, Mt Hood transforms into a winter wonderland. There are 4 ski resorts to choose from: Mt. Hood Meadows, Timberline, Skibowl, and Cooper Spur. Mt Hood Meadows offers the most ski runs and the widest variety of terrain. Skibowl has the largest night ski area of any resort in the USA. And Timberline is the only ski resort in North America that is open 12 months a year!
And if skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, you can also go snowshoeing, cross country skiing, or snow tubing. Mt. Hood is the perfect place to spend an afternoon playing in the snow with your little ones!
If you have time for more than a day trip then you can spend the night at Timberline Lodge or rent a mountain cabin in the little mountain town of Government Camp.
Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
By Val of Voyages with Val
Drive Time: 1 hour
A little over an hour’s drive from Portland, Silver Falls State Park makes one of the most perfect day trips from Portland. This 54-mile drive goes by in a flash as you watch the Oregon countryside fly by.
Silver Falls is a beautiful State Park and one of the best spots in all of Oregon to see waterfalls. Whether you are looking for a short hike or a long one, you can find a trail to fit your schedule. One of the longer hikes is the Trail of Ten Falls. It is a 7.4 miles long loop containing ten spectacular waterfalls, many of which you can walk right behind. You can start this trail from the North Falls, South Falls, or Winter Falls Trailheads.
If you don’t have time for the entire Trail of Ten Falls, you can also take one of several shortened loops, starting from either South or North Falls Trailheads. For an even shorter hike, two of the most impressive falls in the park are only steps from the car. South Falls is less than half a mile from the parking lot, and very close to the cafe, nature store, and picnic tables, making it a great lunch spot. Similarly, North Falls is about a quarter of a mile from the North Falls Trailhead lot.
It is important to know before visiting Silver Falls that there is a day-use fee that can be paid at most parking lots. You should also be aware that dogs are not allowed on much of the Trail of Ten Falls, so leave your furry friends at home or only take them on dog-friendly routes.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
By Jessica of Uprooted Traveler
Drive Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
If you are looking for one of the classic day trips from Portland, look no further than Cannon Beach, just a one-and-a-half-hour drive (80 miles) from the City of Roses. Cannon Beach is located along the Oregon coast, which is known for its stunning beaches, complete with craggy sea stacks and other dramatic rock formations.
Many towns along the coast, including Cannon Beach, are charmingly quaint, full of colorful beach shacks, mom-and-pop candy stores hawking saltwater taffy, and hearty Oregonian surfer dudes. While the town of Cannon Beach is tiny (with less than 1,500 residents), there’s plenty to keep you busy. Consider, for example, hiking any of the spectacular trails in Ecola State Park- trails like Tillamook Head or Indian Beach take hikers through the perfect mix of dense rainforests, along dramatic cliffs, and down onto the sand of breathtaking beaches. While you are hiking along the trails, keep your eyes out for the aforementioned surfers. Many of them surf year-round on the surprisingly tubular waves.
In addition to its natural beauty, the town of Cannon Beach is completely adorable- some favorites stops here are Public Coast Brewery, offering a diverse array of unique brews, and Sesame & Lilies, a carefully curated home goods store with an upscale Pacific-Northwest vibe. No trip to Cannon Beach would be complete with a stop along its namesake beach to marvel at Haystack Rock, a 235-foot monolith rising out of the Pacific Ocean.
If you can swing it, time your visit with sunset- it’s dazzling here! Regardless of what time of year you’re visiting the Oregon coast, make sure to dress warmly, Cannon Beach (and the entire coastline) is notorious for having chilly and fickle weather. You will enjoy your visit a whole lot more if you are rocking a sweater as compared to a bikini!
There are so many fun day trips from Portland, so it makes for a great place to base yourself. Other fun day trips from Portland include Sauvie Island, Trillium Lake, Seaside, and Corvalis. If you have more time, take some weekend trips from Portland to see even more of the state. You can also head up to Seattle, which has a lot of cheap things to do, and Washington to explore more of the Pacific Northwest.
