THE 10 BEST Large Group Activities & Things to Do in Portland
Best Group Activities in Portland
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Travellers' Choice Awards winners (including the "Best of the Best" title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travellers across the globe.
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- Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
Northwest District
Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
Northwest District
Speciality & Gift Shops
Pearl
Public Transportation Systems
Amusement & Theme Parks • Miniature Golf
Sellwood - Moreland Improvement League
Parks • Gardens
Northwest District
Public Transportation Systems
What travellers are saying
- Jen JCalifornia62 contributionsBeautiful place to wander, sit with your tea and enjoy the peacefulness. Quite a few stairs so not really for those not ambulatory. Winter was beautiful but I can only imagine spring or fall would be even better. Affordable, $22 adults, parking by the hour $4 .Written 24 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- NeoWasHereFrederick, MD3 939 contributionsMy main reason for going to this area in the first place was to visit the Portland Japanese Garden. After waiting forever to find an available parking spot in Washington Park, I then had quite a hike ahead of me to get to the Japanese Garden. This International Rose Test Garden was in my walking route. I didn't know it was there beforehand. Since it was the middle of June, the roses were in full bloom so I stayed awhile here distracted by their beauty. As printed on the brochure, the roses are in bloom from late May through October. Also noted, a $500 fine can be imposed by Portland City Code if anyone tries to pick or remove roses or rose plants so don't even think about it.Written 16 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Michael B7 contributionsThis place is breathtaking, I was not too sure what to expect but my girlfriend made me come here when we visit Portland and my god it has to be the place that made my Portland experience. The paying extra few bucks to go on top is worth it. Get to see very beautiful statues and alters. The view is to Amazing in the meditation room. Please be quite when in there because when I was there there was people talking and someone chewing with their mouth open like common be quiet and close that damn mouth 10/10 place
They also take Military Discount hereWritten 4 December 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Minnie M1 contributionA history buff, I was in heaven. My interactive experience led me through rooms arranged with colorful period furniture--bedsteads, wood & marble cabinets, sofas--and a sewing machine and sitting room overlooking both the garden and a vista of Portland. As visitors are guided (self tour) throughout the house, history boards and period photos incrementally tell the ongoing story of the mansion, late nineteenth/early 20 century Portland, and its citizens. Through the Pittock family’s personal story, my physical walk through the house sparked my thoughts to imagine what it might have actually been like to live during that time.
A small but pertinent point introduced the Pittocks as people I could relate to: much of the furniture currently arranged is not what the Pittocks brought to the mansion. They brought plain, simple, unadorned beds, tables, chairs from the small house they moved from. The furniture was not ornate. Just plain folks, but growing with the community.
(Other furniture there does represent the times and the history of other early families that also reflect Portland establishing itself in our state, nation, and globally. These contribute to a wider view on Portland, which I did enjoy.)
Spend time walking, observing, reading, imagining in this place.Written 10 December 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Jen PPortland, Oregon, United States7 contributionsThis beautiful garden has something to offer in every season. Much of the area has covered walkways so even if it’s raining you will be comfortable. You can gaze at the koi, relax and take in the view, or even read a book in the many different tucked away places. The BEST part of the garden though is the tea house! The staff are kind and knowledgeable l, the menu is full of tasty options, and I’ve never felt rushed out. Truly a respite and gem in the cityWritten 24 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- NeoWasHereFrederick, MD3 939 contributionsParking is a nightmare at this park. What is supposed to be a 6 minute drive from where we started, it took about an hour to get to and find a place to park. Drivers grind to a halt on SW Kingston Avenue where you will eventually pass perfectly good parking lots that are all full, then more parking spots all full, pass public restrooms that you need to use but can't because there is nowhere to park, playgrounds for kids but you can't use since you can't park, and then right before a monstrosity of a construction site of some reservoir, you may be able to find a parking spot like we did. After contributing $4.60 to the City of Portland through something called Parking Kitty, the long hiking journey began uphill and eventually on a trail that led to an empty amphitheater. More restrooms were found, but those ones were closed for some reason. Lovely. You can just hold it and like it.
After all, there's beautiful roses in high bloom since it was June. Ooh, pretty! That'll keep your mind off of things. Then, if you can somehow manage to get through the wall of tennis courts, eventually one may finally find the Portland Japanese Garden. I don't know who designed this park, but those tennis courts are just in the way. Maybe, move them further away and provide more parking next to the attractions people come here to see would be a good idea. Is there any common sense left in the world?!
Anyways, the roses were beautiful and the garden peaceful. I love the sound of nature and waterfalls. Nature's beauty far surpass any of these other nuisances.Written 17 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Lyn T23 contributionsWe went to the Portland zoo right after Thanksgiving. We were amazed at how imaginative the zoo was. We were able to see the animals up close and very personal! Beavers and otters in their dens. Penguins swimming. Bald eagles are very close to being natural. Very reasonably priced. We only got to see about half of the zoo. We will go longer next time!!!Written 29 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- BvROregon168 contributionsOMSI is always a family favorite- so many great exhibits and the submarine CANNOT be missed! Kids love the gift ship of course.Written 5 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Sara G.Saint Louis, MO964 contributionsThe Redwood Observation Deck in Portland, Oregon, is unpopular short hike that you wouldn’t know about. The journey to the deck is enchanting. The trail winds through lush greens and towering redwoods. Their immense trunks and lofty canopies are unmatched by anything I’ve ever seen before. The air is cool and crisp with the heavy scent of pine and earth. As you approach the observation deck, the trail opens up to a panoramic view. Definitely take this short hike if you have 30 minutes.Written 16 September 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- AmandaKent, UK726 contributionsI loved the market, so many artisans selling their wares. We ended up buying quite a few bits to take home. Loads of crafts & food alike. A must do if you’re in Portland on a Saturday.Written 23 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Putnam BSeattle, WA90 contributionsA large park with many facilities - a playground, a swimming pool, wooded areas and lawns. Plus, of course, a large and well-tended rose garden surrounded by a walking path at a higher level making the whole array of roses visible at once. Closer inspection is also possible by walking down the stairs or a wheelchair ramp.
From the name, you might expect it to front on the Columbia or the Willamette River, but it is in fact surrounded by a city neighborhood and obviously popular with nearby residents.Written 29 September 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Henry’s TakeSan Diego, CA1 431 contributionsTrail Series, Part 38
If you’re searching for a destination that provides a diversity of trail experiences in Portland, Oregon, you should consider Tryon Creek State Natural Area. It offers clearly marked unpaved trails for hikers, leashed dogs, and runners; paved trails for cyclists; and unpaved trails for equestrians. Many of the trails are dedicated to either hikers/runners or equestrians, but some of them intersect for joint use. It is at such a juncture that I had the pleasure of meeting “Panama.” While admiring his majestic stature, I noticed the “shoes” that he was wearing. While I assumed they were intended to increase his traction while on the trails, I was informed that they’re actually for protection. Apparently hooves are akin to fingernails and can be prone to compacting both mud and rocks (which can cause a horse discomfort). 🤷♂️
While a number of the trails are moderate in difficulty, those with mobility issues should find the Old Main Trail easier to navigate (located at the South end of the parking lot).
Although there is a myriad of trails to explore spanning many acres, access to Tryon Creek is prohibited (to protect the habitat of the Steelhead and Salmon).
The Nature Center located in the center of the park offers limited free parking, restrooms, water fountains, trail maps, and some concessions (with a separate equestrian parking area available for those with trailers).
Oregon State Parks also hosts regular weekend guided walks/hikes featuring various themes including “spiders”, “fantastic fungi”, and “Ghosts of the Park.” 😳
And that’s…Henry’s Take.
#runningportlandWritten 26 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - minimize940314Los Angeles, CA3 540 contributionsOutstanding bridge. Unlike other bridges in Portland, this bridge illuminates beautifully at night. This is very close to OMSI.Written 31 August 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- art f1 contributionI live in Santa Barbara and visit Portland on a regular basis. I've been going to Powells for decades, literally... as usual I went near Christmas to take in the city's offerings and grab a ton of gifts for family back in SB. This trip was made even more special by the help I recieved from Julian. They were wonderful and knowledgeable of the store and Portland. We talked about them graduating from PSU and how they also have family in Santa Barbara. As usual... Powells is the best bookstore on the planet!Written 4 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- margaretcovPortland, OR269 contributionsA charming village with unique shops and restaurants. A few empty spots but new ones coming soon. It is a delightful place to stroll with friendly people and lots of dogs (some of the stores actually invite in well-behaved ones). And, don't forget the side streets such as the food carts in the French Quarter with two more delicious places across the street - Marcos and Grand Central Bakery. And for those who like the chains, to the east on Capitol Highway you will find a Starbucks, Blue Donuts and Little Big Burger. The locals love the place, especially on first Friday when the stores are open later, serving treats and beverages plus 10% off purchases.Written 31 January 2020This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
