live in portland Offers the perfect mix of urban living and outdoor adventure. While the city itself is a wealth of attractions and activities, the City of Roses is also surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, from majestic mountains to picturesque waterfalls.
whether you are renting an apartment or want to buy home in portlandThere are so many amazing places to explore. We’ll take you on a tour of some of the most beautiful places in and around Portland that you won’t want to miss as a new resident.
1. Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls A natural wonder located about a 30-minute drive east of Portland. As one of the most iconic waterfalls, Multnomah Falls stands at a height of 620 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in Oregon. The stunning view of the falls alone is worth the trip, but the surrounding area also offers opportunities for hiking and picnicking in lush surroundings. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the paved trail to Benson Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the falls, or take a more strenuous hike to the top of the falls for an even more impressive view.
2. Portland Japanese Garden
Located within the sprawling Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden A serene oasis that offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This stunning 5 1/2-acre garden is designed to provide a peaceful and contemplative experience, with each element carefully crafted to embody traditional Japanese beauty.
Visitors can walk through the winding paths of the garden, taking in the beauty of koi ponds, tea houses, sand and stone gardens, and stunning waterfalls. The garden also offers seasonal events, such as the Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the arrival of spring in Japanese tradition. Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a moment of quiet reflection, the Japanese Garden is the perfect destination that transports you to another world and invites you to immerse yourself in timeless beauty.
3. Mount Hood
mount hood A majestic and iconic natural wonder located just 60 miles east of Portland. This dormant volcano is the highest point in Oregon, rising to an impressive 11,239 feet. The mountain’s distinctive snow-capped peak can be seen from miles away, providing a breathtaking sight for visitors and locals alike.
Mount Hood is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities for all seasons. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking trails that run through forests of evergreen trees, or take a scenic drive along the winding mountain roads. During the winter months, the mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders to its slopes. With its stunning views of the surrounding forests and valleys, Mount Hood is an unforgettable destination that offers a true taste of Oregon’s natural beauty.
4. Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a natural wonder that stretches for 80 miles along the Columbia River, offering visitors breathtaking views of towering cliffs, lush forests, and majestic waterfalls. This awe-inspiring canyon is a prime destination for hiking, biking and scenic drives, providing an ideal way to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The gorge is home to more than 90 waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, which tumble down cliffs and create a picturesque sight that seems almost ethereal. There are also several hiking trails in the gorge including the popular Eagle Creek TrailWhich gives hikers the chance to explore the lush forests and rocky cliffs that make this area so unique.
5. Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast is a breathtaking stretch of coastline that boasts some of the most stunning natural landscapes. With more than 350 miles of coastline, visitors can explore sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and striking rock formations, all of which offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The coast is a popular destination for hiking, with miles of scenic trails that wind through lush forests and rugged coastline. Swimming is also a favorite pastime at the beach, with a variety of unique seashells, driftwood, and other treasures that wash up on the shores. Whale watching is another popular activity, with the opportunity to spot gray whales as they migrate along the coast.
6. Forest Park
forest ParkLocated in Portland, Oregon, is a natural wonder that spans 5,200 acres, making it one of the largest urban forests in the United States. The park is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with more than 80 miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, babbling streams, and majestic waterfalls. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, which includes more than 112 bird species and a variety of wildlife, such as deer, coyotes, and raccoons. The park also has several picnic areas and scenic overlooks, which provide a perfect opportunity to take in stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape.
7. Pittock Haveli
Pitka Haveli Nestled in the beautiful West Hills of Portland is a historic treasure. Built in 1909, the mansion is now a museum showcasing the rich history of Portland and the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can step back in time and explore the mansion’s elegant rooms and exquisite furnishings while learning about the city’s past and the people who helped shape it. The haveli commands spectacular views of the city from its hilltop location, offering visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion or explore on their own the impressive architecture and stunning grounds.
8. Washington Park
Washington Park is a massive 410-acre park located in the heart of Portland. The park is a haven for nature lovers and has a wide range of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. In addition to the Portland Japanese Garden, Oregon Zoo The zoo is another popular attraction within the park, which is home to over 1,800 animals from around the world. The International Rose Test Garden with over 10,000 rose bushes of around 650 different varieties is a must-see attraction. Another highlight is the Portland Children’s Museum, which features interactive exhibits designed to inspire creativity and learning. With so many attractions to choose from, visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring the park and its many wonders. Washington Park is a must-see destination for new residents.
9. Willamette Valley
The Willamette Valley is a breathtaking wine region that offers visitors a taste of the Pacific Northwest’s wine country. Located just south of Portland, the region is known for producing some of the best Pinot Noir wines in the world. The valley is home to over 500 wineries and is known for its stunning scenery, rolling hills and vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and scenic drives through the valley while taking in the beauty of the lush landscape. The valley also offers a variety of dining options, from farm-to-table restaurants to casual eateries. During harvest season, visitors can participate in grape picking and other vineyard activities.
10. St. John’s Bridge
The St. John’s Bridge is an iconic landmark in Portland that should not be missed. The stunning suspension bridge spans the Willamette River in North Portland and is considered one of the most beautiful bridges in the surrounding area. Completed in 1931, the bridge is known for its Gothic-style towers and intricate details that make it a sight to behold. Visitors can take a leisurely walk or bike ride across the bridge while taking in breathtaking views of the city and river below. Alternatively, they can explore the area around the bridge, particularly Cathedral Park, which lies under the west tower of the bridge. The park has picnic areas, a boat dock, and stunning views of the bridge and river, making it a great place to spend a relaxing day with family or friends.
11. Punch Bowl Falls
Punch Bowl Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Columbia River Gorge east of the city and makes an ideal day trip from portland, The falls are named after the unique bowl-shaped basin into which the water falls, creating a stunning natural amphitheater. The waterfalls can be reached via a short hike through the lush forest, which offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys. You can also see the nearby Lower Punchbowl Falls and Upper Punchbowl Falls. The area around the falls is a great spot for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon in nature.
If you are considering moving to the Pacific Northwest, Portland, OR may be the perfect place for you. known for its quaint charm, delicious food and endless hiking trailsthere are so many reasons to move to portland,
