Portland is one of those cities that need to be viewed from inside and outside. Which is what you will be able to do when you experience our 13 free things to do in Portland. Known as The City of Roses, Oregon’s green gem is just 70 miles from the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by stunning mountains, rivers and vineyards. Visits to Portland’s galleries, museums, lush parks and historical old town can fill a week or weekend. The city’s easy-to-use transit system is one of the most extensive and advanced in the country, including the MAX train that allows you to sick back and view Portland’s spectacular surroundings.

1. Forest Park
Visit the largest city park in the united states. It is comprised of over 5,000 acres, inluding 50 miles of trails and 30 miles of gated roads.

Photo by deadair

2. Saturday Market
Visit between march and December on Saturday and Sunday to experience a wide variety of crafts and different foods.

3. Widmer Portland Brewing
While in Portland schedule a tour on a Friday or Saturday of this famous brewery.

4. Portland Farmer’s Market
Visit this local farmers market to enjoy different foods that have been created locally. The market is open Saturdays and Wednesdays between April and October.

5. International Rose Test Garden
Visit this garden where you can see over8,000 rose bushes from across the world on display. This is a great place to bring a picnic lunch and sit and enjoy the scenery.

6. Powell’s City of Books
Visit this giant bookstore that takes up a whole city block. If your not interested in the books enjoy some of the art in the Pearl Room.

7. Hoyt Arboretum
While at this arboretum enjoy over 1,100 different species of trees, or go on any number of different hikes on over 12 miles of trails.

8. Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Visit this park that is along with shore of the Willamette river. The park has many attractions including a large public fountain for kids to play in during the summer months.

Photo by rodefeld

9. Gallery Walk
If you are interested in art this is a great way to see the local talent for free on the first Thursday of each month.

10. Devils Punchbowl State Nature Area
Visit this location during nice weather days, since it can house agressive waters during storms. From here you can view tide pools and depending on the season you may even be able to do a bit of whale watching.

11. Portland Art Museum
If you would like to visit this museum go on the fourth Friday of each month between 5 and 8pm.

12. Pioneer Courthouse Square
This square is open year round any time of the day in the center of the city. Many different fairs and concerts are here throughout the year so check before you go to see what you can catch.

13. Multnomah Falls
Visit this picturesque water falls just outside of Portland.

Great List – Thanks!