5 Free Things to do in Portland, Oregon

Forest Park

Famous for being the largest city park in the United States, Forest Park invites you into its 5,000 acres to explore its trails and lots of hiking, biking, running, and horseback riding.

In other words, Forest Park isn’t your typical city green space, but rather a true escape into the beauty and appeal of nature, conveniently sandwiched inside city limits.

This is undoubtedly one of the many enjoyable free things to do in Portland, Oregon. You can also visit Forest Park for its museums and zoo.

Saturday Market

Held from the first of March through December 24th, hundreds of Oregon artists gather to offer one of the best free things to do in Portland on a Saturday or Sunday.

Stroll through the Saturday Market to peruse the many trinkets, clothes, toys, instruments, photographs, pottery, jewelry pieces and more and enjoy the wide array of street performances, food, and people.  

Pioneer Courthouse Square

Each day, over 26,000 people pass through Pioneer Courthouse Square to experience the lively intersection of some of Portland’s best shopping, business, and cultural districts -- a great place to spend time and find some fun free things to do in Portland, Oregon.

The weather machine is one of the Square’s attractions: every day at noon the machine predicts rain or shine. Portland gets a lot of rain, but at least you’ll know it’s coming!

Also here is the waterfall fountain outside the visitor’s center and the Pioneer Courthouse, the Pacific Northwest’s oldest public building, which the square is named after—a must-see and free thing to do in Portland. 

International Rose Test Garden

It’s no wonder Portland gets its name, the City of Roses. The International Rose Test Garden inside Washington Park was created during World War I to insure that European roses wouldn’t be destroyed by the bombings. Since 1917, visitors have enjoyed these very well-kept flowering grounds.

Visit anytime between April and October and stroll the garden to smell some of the 7,000 sweet rose bushes.

This free thing to do in Portland is one of the more romantic activities the city has to offer.  

Powell’s City of Books

If you are one to enjoy a rainy day pastime and probably one of the most entertaining free things to do in Portland, Oregon Powell’s City of Books is the place to visit.

It is a must-see for those who enjoy browsing. Taking up an entire city block and several floors, this bookstore is considered America’s largest. Selling both used and new copies, here you will find almost every book that has ever been printed!

Since you’re going to save so much money during the day, pick out a great Portland restaurant for dinner.