‍

Sunny Day Guide to Portland

What are the best things to do on a sunny day in Portland? Check it out!

Pacific Northwest sunshine is well-earned, and when we see those sparkling rays, Portlanders know how to get outside and enjoy it. Here are some insider tips for the best sunny day activities in PDX! In addition to the ideas below, make sure to check out the live music and drive-in movies at The Lot at Zidell Yards!

‍

Drive to Vista House for incredible views of the Columbia Gorge

The Vista House was built in 1917 on one of the most beautiful scenic points on the Historic Columbia River Highway. Once you've gotten your fill of Gorge views, head up the historic highway a bit, and you'll find yourself at the second tallest year-round waterfall in North America: Multnomah Falls! Get a photo on the bridge, grab a shaved ice, and hit that souvenir gift shop on your way back home.

Get outside and ride a bike

Need to stretch your legs after being in the car? Head back to town and jump on your bike, or borrow one of the bright orange rentals from Nike's Biketown (we have a rental hub between our two hotel buildings -- and now they're electric!). On sunny summer Sundays, you'll find family-friendly bike rides across the city known as Sunday Parkways. On a very special night in June, you may be witness to swathes of naked bike riders for the largest chapter of the World Naked Bike Ride. Take part if you want! The location is shared the day of, but the date is known far in advance. You know you want to!

See the sunset on Rev Hall’s rooftop bar before seeing a show

World class music venue Revolution Hall exists in what used to be a high school auditorium! With several bars and restaurants scattered throughout old classrooms, and an epic rooftop bar that shines at sunset, featuring views of downtown Portland that rival our own! Spend the night gabbing away with your best pals on the rooftop, then head downstairs to the music venue to rock the night away.

‍

Shop local artisans’ wares at the Saturday Market

Operating since 1974, the Portland Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the nation. And when we say large, it spans several city blocks, crosses a couple of streets, and heads down the westside waterfront. You'll find everything you need in terms of weird and wacky souvenirs, gorgeous art to adorn your walls, and whatever else the amazing artists of the market come up with.
‍

Pick your fresh produce at PSU’s enormous farmer’s market

Spend a sunny Saturday morning prepping for the best salad lunch of your life. Pick up some of the best fresh produce you'll find in the world, plus flower bouquets, food, honey, and so much more at the Portland State University open-air Farmer's Market. Plus, there's usually live music and plenty of places to sit and enjoy your morning. When you're done, take a two-block walk to the Portland Art Museum, stroll down the Park blocks, and see what other trouble you can get into.

Ride the rollercoasters at Oaks Amusement Park

Oaks Amusement Park is located in Portland's historic Sellwood neighborhood, a few miles south of downtown Portland. The rollercoasters, fairground rides, bumper cars, roller rink, and mini golf course have been 'where the fun never ends' since Oaks Park opened in 1905. And, they're right across the walkway from the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, great for the birdwatchers in your life. Make a whole afternoon of it!

‍

Walk to the top of Mt Tabor to see three mountains in the distance

Mt Tabor Park offers stunning views of Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Rainier, and Mt. Hood in three directions on a clear, sunny day. It also features open reservoirs, hiking trails and an extinct volcano, with peaceful benches, playgrounds, and stairs that are perfect for getting your cardio on. Definitely worth a walk - or an entire picnic!

Explore the Washington Park attractions: Hoyt Arboretum, Portland Japanese Garden and more

Located near downtown Portland in Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden is a must-see all year round. Enjoy light bites at Umami Café before a summer stroll through five meticulously crafted gardens. PJG hosts art shows and outdoor events all season long, plus a special summer marketplace for you to pick up some unique crafts and souvenirs. Check out other Washington Park exhibits like the International Rose Test Garden and the Hoyt Arboretum for stunning regional flora that will blow your mind.

Catch a comedy show in Laurelhurst Park

Feel like a show? Skip the stuffy clubs; Kickstand Comedy's hosting free comedy nights (almost) every Friday this summer, in beautiful Laurelhurst Park! Kickstand brings in Portland's best local comics, plus some national faves. (Grab some discounted snacks and drinks with your exclusive Local Hookups and make it a picnic!)

OR JUST STAY IN BED

Looking for a sunny day excuse to stay in bed? Lucky for you, we are now offering pick up at Hey Love to guests in the hotel. Simply order from the menu via QR code (all you need is a smart phone), and Hey Love will text you when your food is ready. Spend the day snuggling up in your room, spying on the city from above. You deserve it.