Ready for an adventure? Join us for the ultimate tour of Portland and the Columbia River Gorge! We’ll show you the must-see sights in Portland and the surrounding area, and then whisk you away to the stunning Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. Discover the magic of the waterfalls, soak in breathtaking views, and dive into the history of the area’s top attractions. This journey is packed with wonder and excitement, blending the best of both worlds for a truly one-of-a-kind experience!
Highlights:
-Bring a camera! The views of Portland, Multnomah Falls & Gorge Waterfalls are spectacular.
-You will experience the best Portland sites including the International Rose Garden (seasonally), Pioneer Courthouse Square, NW 23rd (the best shopping area in Portland), the Pearl District, the World Forestry Center (seasonally), the Oregon Society of Artists (seasonally), Lake Oswego Square (in season), and the South Park Blocks.
-Explore the Columbia River Gorge! Sites we may visit include: Portland Women’s Forum, Vista House, Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Multnomah Falls and more.
Itinerary:
Downtown Portland
Nestled in the heart of downtown Portland, Pioneer Courthouse Square is the ultimate hangout spot for all things Portland. Dubbed the “living room” of the city, this urban park hosts over 300 events each year, bringing together locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re here to explore or just chill, Pioneer Courthouse Square is the perfect starting point for your Portland adventure.
International Rose Test Garden
Inhale the sweet aroma of over 600 roses and bask in the beauty of Washington Park’s stunning city and mountain vistas. From May to mid-October, our journey leads us to the International Rose Test Garden, boasting more than 10,000 individual rose bushes flaunting 610 different rose varieties. Stroll through the Garden and immerse yourself in the stunning blooms, with most available for purchase. And hey, there’s always something new to discover, as 10 to 20 varieties are swapped out each year to showcase the latest and greatest. Get ready for a rosy adventure from May to mid-October!
World Forestry Center
Buckle up for a globetrotting adventure through the lush forests of the world! The Discovery Museum is the ultimate playground for curious minds of all ages. With a spectrum of vibrant hands-on exhibits, you’ll learn all about tree planting, wildlife, the magic of wood, outdoor fun, and even forest careers. The first floor is a wild ride through the many roles forests play in our lives. From being a habitat to a place for soul-searching and recreation, to a critical resource, and beyond! The second floor takes on a global flair, showing how folks everywhere depend on their local forests. Pack your bags, we’re off on a forest expedition at the World Forestry Center from mid-October to end of April, every Thursday to Sunday!
Oregon Society of Artists
Join us on a journey to discover a hidden treasure, nestled in the heart of our diverse community. This little gem is a hub for visual arts of all shapes and colors and invites artists far and wide to come and explore their creative side. During our visit, we’ll get to soak up the beauty of the OSA Gallery, which showcases new exhibits every month, bringing a fresh burst of inspiration with each visit. But, that’s not all. We’ll delve into the rich history of the OSA, which has been making waves since 1926! To top it off, we’ll also get an exclusive peek at some of the rarest works by the greatest painters who have contributed to the rich tapestry of Portland’s art scene. Don’t miss out on this artistic adventure! Mark your calendars from mid-October to the end of April, every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
NW 23rd Avenue
Welcome to the beating heart of the Nob Hill District! This avenue is like a time capsule, transporting you back to a world of vintage Victorian and Craftsman-style storefronts. Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of quirky boutiques and big-name brands, all mingling with hip coffee shops and restaurants like Salt & Straw Ice Cream and Matador NW Portland. Whether you’re looking to shop till you drop or feast like royalty, this place is a true haven for those who love the good life!
Pearl District
Once a forgotten industrial wasteland, Portland’s Pearl District has transformed into a pulsing, creative hub that’s the envy of the city. Cobblestone streets, towering factories, and loading docks serve as reminders of its gritty past, but now they’re surrounded by lively parks and artful touches that make this neighborhood truly one-of-a-kind. Wander through Tanner Springs Park and you’ll see what we mean. This urban renaissance is a testament to the power of imagination and hard work.
South Park Blocks
Welcome to one of Portland’s most iconic and cherished locations: a sprawling 12-block park that has been a beloved hub for generations. With its roots dating back to the early days of the city, it stands proud and green, stretching out north from Portland State University. It’s the perfect front yard for the Cultural District’s bustling community, including the likes of the Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Historical Society. There’s always something exciting happening here, with endless programs and events to bring a smile to the faces of both locals and visitors alike.
Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
The great ice age Lake Missoula Flood left scars literally from Montana to the Pacific Ocean. Join us as we explore the waterfalls, scenic highways, vistas while our tour guides share information about the historic Lake Missoula Flood in Northwest Oregon & Southwest Washington.
As we journey along the Historic Columbia River Highway stops may include: Portland Women’s Forum, Crown Point Vista House, Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Multnomah Falls, and Horsetail Falls.
Crowne Point Vista House
Picture this: perched on a mountaintop, Vista House flaunts the most breathtaking view of the Columbia River Gorge, making it the stuff of legends. This beauty, lovingly dubbed “The Crown Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge,” was erected between 1916 and 1918 as a tribute to Oregon pioneers. Not only that, it also served as a scenic viewpoint and a rest stop for travelers making their way down the newly built Historic Columbia River Highway. A visit to this stunning vista is sure to leave you spellbound and in awe.
Latourell Falls
Behold! A breathtaking waterfall, cascading 249 feet (76 m) down a towering wall of basalt before rocketing through the forest and into the mighty Columbia River. Latourell Falls is a sight to behold, nestled among stunning columnar basalt formations, decked out with glowing yellow lichen and surrounded by vibrant green flora. Take a hike down to the punch-bowl pool below, where you’ll be swept away by the thunderous roar of water and misty spray. It’s no wonder this spot is one of Oregon’s most snapped waterfalls!
Multnomah Falls
Fed by secret underground streams that originate miles above, Multnomah Falls boasts a whopping 620 feet of cascading wonder. It’s split into two sections: the upper falls, which drops an awe-inspiring 542 feet into a crystal-clear pool, then takes another 69-foot dive to form a meandering creek that flows into the Columbia River. It’s officially the second-highest year-round waterfall in the USA and the tallest in Oregon, attracting over 2.5 million visitors from every corner of the planet every year. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, at the base of the falls awaits the Historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, a day lodge that’s got it all: yummy bites, gift shop treasures, and an interpretative center to quench your thirst for knowledge.
Horsetail Falls
Horsetail Falls, with its unique shape, is one of the most stunning sights to behold, cascading down a whopping 176 feet. Following the trail, you’ll discover Upper Horsetail Falls, also nicknamed Ponytail Falls, where the trail leads you behind the waterfall’s mighty base. It’s a perfect spot to snap some photos, or simply take a moment to soak up the natural beauty surrounding you.