Portland City Tour: Views and News (Our Best Selling Tour!)

Portland , United States

Portland City Tour: Views and News (Our Best Selling Tour!)

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About this experience

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to explore the city's sights, this tour promises an enjoyable overview of Portland's unique charm.

As you drive through historic districts, your guide will provide fascinating commentary on Portland's evolution from a dense forest, to rugged pioneer "Stumptown," to the lively tourist destination it is today.

One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the historic Pittock Acres, where you can admire the beautiful landscape and catch a magnificent view of Mt. Hood.

Another not-to-be-missed stop is the International Rose Test Garden, home to over 300 colorful varieties of roses, offering a sensory experience unlike any other.

We will cross the Willamette River on an iconic bridge, then explore unique east side locations beloved by locals.

No matter the route, you'll witness both historic and emerging neighborhoods, a testament to Portland's rich heritage, architectural diversity, and continual evolution.

Available options

Portland City Tour: Views and News (Our Best Selling Tour!)

What's included

Bottled water

We pick up on the PARK AVENUE SIDE of Director Park, 815 SW Park Avenue, Portland, OR 97205.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will tour the grounds, hear the history, and take in the spectacular view.

Stop 2 Pass by

Get a taste of Washington Park on the way to the International Test Rose Garden. Washington Park has a zoo, forestry museum, arboretum, Japanese garden, amphitheatre, memorials, archery range, tennis courts, soccer field, picnic areas, playgrounds, public art and many acres of wild forest with miles of trails.

Stop 3

Let's stop and smell the roses - more than 10,000 when they're in bloom! Even out of season, this is a beautiful stop with a wondrous view!

Pass through Old Town on your tour of downtown Portland, and hear the history of the city's rough and tumble beginnings.

Stop 5 Pass by

We will pass through and learn about Portland's famous shopping district, as well as Old Chinatown, the cultural district, and the government district.

Stop 6 Pass by

See the largest bookstore in the world, with approximately one million books.

We will drive along this historic park and hear the fascinating history of its origin.

(Possibly on itinerary, depending on guide and weather) One of twelve Portland bridges that crosses the Willamette River, the Hawthorne Bridge is a truss bridge with a vertical lift. It is the oldest vertical-lift bridge in operation in the United States.

(Possibly on itinerary, depending on guide and weather) This is another location with interesting history and an amazing view of the city.

(Possibly on itinerary, depending on guide and weather) This offbeat hotel in a restored 1915 elementary school. Quirky, artisan decorated.

(Possibly on itinerary, depending on guide and weather) Named because of the epic bridge towering above, Cathedral Park is steeped in history. It is believed to be one of the 14 Lewis and Clark landing sites in the Vancouver-Portland area. This spot had been a fishing and camping site for many area Indian tribes. In 1931, the St Johns Bridge was built on the site with 400-ft towers and a main span of 1,207 feet. It is the only steel suspension bridge in Portland.

What's not included

Tipping is customary and your guide gratefully accepts tips. For your convenience, most guides accept digital payments.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

108 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

92 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The remaining hours are for travel time and for passing by in a different location.

Meeting point

This is a public square. We pick up on the PARK AVENUE side. Your guide will arrive 10 minutes before the tour leaves.

About Portland

Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant city known for its eco-friendliness, craft breweries, and thriving arts scene. Nestled between the Pacific Northwest's rugged coast and the Cascade Mountains, it offers a unique blend of urban living and outdoor adventure.

Top Attractions

Washington Park

Washington Park is a 460-acre park that features beautiful gardens, museums, and recreational facilities. It is a must-visit for nature lovers and families.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have admission fees)

Powell's City of Books

Powell's City of Books is the world's largest independent bookstore, spanning an entire city block. It is a paradise for book lovers.

Cultural 1-3 hours Free to browse (cost of books varies)

Portland Art Museum

The Portland Art Museum is the largest art museum in Oregon, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world.

Museum 1-3 hours $25 (adults), $20 (seniors), Free (under 18)

Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest, located just a short drive from Portland.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Portland Japanese Garden

The Portland Japanese Garden is a serene and beautiful garden that offers a peaceful escape from the city. It is one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan.

Cultural 1-2 hours $19.95 (adults), $17.95 (seniors), $14.95 (students), Free (under 5)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Food Cart Pods

Portland is famous for its food carts, offering a wide variety of cuisines. These pods are a great way to sample different dishes in one place.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available

Craft Beer

Portland is known as 'Beervana' for its numerous craft breweries. Be sure to try a local brew or two.

Drink Non-alcoholic options available

Voodoo Doughnut

Voodoo Doughnut is a famous doughnut shop in Portland, known for its creative and unique doughnut flavors.

Dessert Vegetarian options available

Marionberry Pie

Marionberry pie is a local favorite, made with Oregon's famous marionberries. It is a must-try for dessert lovers.

Dessert Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Wind sports Spa treatments Yoga classes Scenic drives Picnicking

Best Time to Visit

June to September

Summer is the most popular time to visit Portland, with warm weather and a variety of outdoor festivals and activities. The city's parks and gardens are in full bloom, and outdoor recreation is at its peak.

18°C to 30°C 64°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Pacific Time Zone (PT) - GMT-8 (Standard Time), GMT-7 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Portland is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it has its share of crime and safety concerns. Visitors should take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Portland International Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from downtown

By train

Union Station

By bus

Portland Union Station, Portland Greyhound Station

Getting around

Public transport

The MAX Light Rail system is efficient, affordable, and covers most of the city. It is a convenient way to get around Portland.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Pearl District Alberta Arts District Hawthorne District Mississippi Avenue

Day trips

Mount Hood

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Mount Hood is a majestic mountain located just a short drive from Portland. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and scenic drives.

Columbia River Gorge

30 km (19 miles) • Half day to full day

The Columbia River Gorge is a stunning natural area located just a short drive from Portland. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, waterfalls, and scenic drives.

Willamette Valley

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The Willamette Valley is a renowned wine region located just a short drive from Portland. It is home to numerous wineries and vineyards, offering wine tastings and tours.

Festivals

Portland Rose Festival • June Oregon Brewers Festival • July Portland Christmas Market • November-December

Pro tips

Visit Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore, and get lost in the vast selection of books.
Explore Portland's food cart scene, which offers a wide variety of cuisines at affordable prices.
Take a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge, where you can hike, waterfall view, and enjoy scenic drives.
Visit the Portland Japanese Garden, a serene and beautiful garden that offers a peaceful escape from the city.
Try a local craft beer at one of Portland's many breweries, which are known for their innovative and unique brews.