Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Portland

Portland , United States

Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Portland

Active

(1 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Taking this 1.5 mile (2.4 km) walk through the heart of downtown Portland offers an immersive exploration into the city's rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation.

Portland, often celebrated for its quirk and progressive ideals, unfolds its stories through a series of iconic landmarks, bustling public squares, and artistic expressions that color its streets. Your guide will reveal Portland's past through the emerging landscape.

Encounter vibrant murals and sculptures along the street. Enjoy the harmony between architecture and environment. Even the smallest park in America claims its fame among the city's many green spaces.

The City of Portland dates back to the pioneer days, and we will share how it changed from a thick forest, to the rugged "stumptown," to the vibrant little city you'll tour.

Depending on your guide, your itinerary may vary.

Peak Tours is licensed and insured, local and family-owned, reliable and knowledgeable. We'd love to show you around!

Available options

Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Portland

What's included

We pick up at the MILEPOST SIGN in Pioneer Courthouse Square, 701 SW 6th Avenue, Portland, OR 97205

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A lively downtown plaza with events, fountains, food carts, art, and a welcoming community gathering space.

Stop 2

A tree-lined stretch of historic green space in downtown Portland, the South Park Blocks feature shaded walkways, statues, gardens, and cultural landmarks, including theaters and Portland State University. Beloved for farmers markets, festivals, and quiet retreats, they blend urban vibrancy with a peaceful, park-like atmosphere.

The Portlandia statue, a massive copper figure, graces the Portland Building’s façade.

Your guide will show you public art, iconic landmarks, food carts, vibrant courtyards, the waterfront, and lively districts—sharing the city's stories, quirky charm, and creative spirit along the way.

What's not included

Tips are customary, and they are greatly appreciated. For your convenience, most guides accept cash and most forms of digital payment

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 1.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

***We meet on the 6th Avenue side of Pioneer Courthouse Square, directly across the street from Pioneer Courthouse, at the milepost sign (see image of meeting point in our photos)***

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.