Take a break from the excitement of the city and carve out a day during your Portland stay to explore nearby sights. Within a few hours’ drive of our downtown Portland hotel, you’ll find everything from snowy mountain peaks and scenic beaches to some of the best wine in the U.S. Read on to see what you can discover on a Portland day trip.
Under an Hour
Multnomah Falls + the Columbia River Gorge
One of the most popular Portland day trips, the Columbia River Gorge is just shy of 40 minutes away from downtown Portland. The park is home to beautiful views, hiking trails, and, most notably, Multnomah Falls. It’s the second tallest year-round waterfall in the U.S. and offers hikers a perfect photo opportunity.
Willamette Valley Wineries
Escape the city for the day and head over to the Willamette Valley. Here you’ll find two thirds of Oregon’s vineyards as well as more than 500 wineries. Famous for its Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley makes a perfect getaway for couples. Stop by two of our favorite vineyards, Cooper Mountain Vineyards and Ponzi Vineyards.
Under Two Hours
Cannon Beach
Trade city views for scenic beach views at Cannon Beach. Clocking in at about an hour and a half away, Cannon Beach is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Roam the sandy shores and be sure to snap a picture of the famous Haystack Rock.
Rowena Crest
Yet another notable photo spot in Oregon, the Rowena Crest viewpoint offers visitors stunning views of the looped road. Beyond the viewpoint, you’ll find hiking trails ideal for a range of skill levels. Stop by during the spring and you might catch a glimpse of the wildflowers that inhabit the fields surrounding the trails.
Two or More Hours
Mount Hood
Nothing paints a better picture of Oregon’s breathtaking natural landscape than Mount Hood. The towering snowy peak can be seen from miles away and is surrounded by dense forest and a crystalline lake. Mount Hood is home to six ski areas, making it a perfect winter getaway. During the rest of the year, visitors can enjoy hiking and kayaking.
Smith Rock State Park
Located in central Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Take in sweeping views of deep river canyons as you explore the park. The park is ideal for those interested in hiking, biking, and rock climbing. There are more than a thousand bolted routes, offering a thrilling adventure for climbers of all levels. Keep an eye out for wildlife during your visit — here you can spot everything from eagles and falcons to beavers and otters.
Yachats, Oregon
You’ll find countless quaint towns dotting the Oregon coast, each with stunning ocean views. One of our favorite coastal towns is Yachats. The small town is home to hiking trails and natural wonders. During your day trip from Portland, be sure to stop by Cape Perpetua, Thor’s Well, and Devils Churn.