You may not know that Portland is home to the largest wetland park in the United States. This lovely getaway in the city is just waiting for you to explore, and with over 2000-acres, two lakes, and a vast array of water birds, this is the perfect spot for a late summer or fall trip.
Smith and Bybee Lakes are nestled in Portland's North side, surrounded by warehouses and port terminals.
Directly before the park entrance, look for the paved path named the Interlakes Trail, and disappear into a forest of cottonwoods and snowberries for a lovely shaded hike.
This lovely out-and-back trail is everything you need for a beautiful day in the city. But because of the wildlife at the park, dogs are not allowed, so leave your furry friends at home.
There are components of Portland that are always brought up in conversation: the food, the gorgeous natural surroundings, the coffee, and the list goes on and on. Little do people know that there are places that make this city so great, and aren't brought up as a predominant Portland perk. Here's a list of some of our favorite Portland hidden gems:
These days many movie theaters are extremely expensive and overrated. The Academy Theater brings back the joy of going to a movie, by offering a wide range of genres at an unbeatable price.
Portland has tons of clothing exchange stores, but none quite like Red Light. It has an electric atmosphere and a selection of clothing ranging from all sorts of decades.
Inspired by countries all over the world, World Foods market explores all sorts of traditional foods. They offer fresh produce high-quality meats, and grocery items that you just can't get anywhere else in the city.
With delicious bar food and creative cocktails, Swift Lounge is a dive bar that is a must-visit for anyone new to Portland. They even feature a rotating seasonal mason jar cocktail! Get your dancing shoes polished up and grab yourself a Topless Robin while you enjoy some floor-shaking base from a live DJ.
Tucked away in NE Portland, The Grotto has been serving as one of Portland's largest and most majestic Catholic sanctuaries for almost 100 years. With botanical gardens and shrines topped with mossy cliffs, this is one of the most gorgeous places in the city.
What would be better than energizing a building's electricity by working out? Nothing! That's why The Green Microgym is so awesome; it does its best to emit significantly less emissions than any other gym in the city by using the workout equipment as its generator.
Opened in 1980, this dimly lit cafe attracts people of all kinds. Each of its tables is named after a different composer and does strange things like disappear into a slit in the wall or shake when a button in the kitchen is pressed. Even if you don't think the Rimsky-Korsakoffee House is truly haunted, it sure is an interesting place to have a meal.
Note: Unfortunately Longfellow's Books in downtown Portland has closed down permanently. There is one in Portland, Maine, but that might be a bit of a drive.
Everyone knows that Powell's Bookstore is our beloved staple, but when you're looking for something more specialized or rare, you'll want to check out Longfellow Books. Located on the corner of Division and Orange Street, the quality of books from this gem shouldn't be easily forgotten.
Taking a stroll in Cathedral Park is beautiful for reasons other than its luscious greenery. If you walk directly under the St. John’s Bridge and look west, you can catch the surreal view of some of Oregon’s dreamlike forestry, which makes this view one of Portland’s true hidden treasures.
Glowing Greens is an indoor, black light miniature golf course. With rooms themed with pirates and aliens, this place is sure to be something that cannot be missed. You'll also be able to try your hand at a blacklight escape room or some feisty axe throwing.
Here's another hidden gem in Portland - Glowing Greens. If you are looking for fun things to do in Portland, learn more about Glowing Greens in this video from Dill Ward:
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Are we missing anything? What are some of your favorite Portland hidden gems? Portland is a wonderful walkable city with numerous places to explore. Check out some of the best places to go for a walk in Portland.
There are a million fun things to do in Oregon, especially in the warmer months. But heading up to the Mt. Hood Skibowl may or may not cross your mind. This summer, add something new to your Oregon bucket list! This high-speed slide is one of Oregon's only mountain coasters, and although it's powered a little differently than a traditional rollercoaster, it's sure to take you on an adventure unlike any other. The best part is it's just an hour away from Portland! Ready? The mountain awaits!
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Mt. Hood Skibowl is a treasured family getaway with more than 20 unique activities and attractions for guests of all ages to enjoy. But Skibowl isn't just for winter adventurers and powder-seekers.
The Alpine Slide in Mt. Hood, Oregon features a 1/2 mile mountain coaster course with dual tracks for a fun racing adventure in an amazing setting. It's the only one of its kind in the Pacific Northwest!
Along with the Alpine Slide, Mt. Hood Skibowl also features mountain bike racing, ziplining, mini golf, disc golf, and much more during the summer. This is definitely a fantastic place for families to visit! Mountain coaster and SkiBowl summer opening dates and hours vary by year, so double-check the Mt. Hood Skibowl website for the latest info.
Have you ever been on the Alpine Slide? What did you think of this "fast and furious" mountain coaster in Oregon? Let us know in the comments below.
The Portland area has a few more high-speed destinations up its sleeve still. For more roller coasters in Oregon, fulfill your need for speed at this legendary amusement park.
