17 Unusual Things to Do in Portland (from a Local), Portland, Oregon

Portland is celebrated for its food and a vibrant creative culture. But it’s also celebrated for being weird. Dig deep and you’ll find a treasure trove of the unusual and the unique. For adventurers looking beyond the conventional tourist trails, Portland offers a plethora of odd and intriguing activities to explore.

In my two decades in Portland, I’ve lived in a number of different quirky neighborhoods. Each one has its own ‘small town’ feel and each embodies a unique spirit of individuality. A place where the residents are free to express themselves without judgement. You’ll find part of this expression in the way they decorate their houses and yards.

Whether you are just visiting Portland or have been a local for years, I encourage you to carve out an entire day to checkout all of the unusual things to do in Portland that make it, well…Portland!

An innovative community project known as the Sidewalk Joy Map is transforming the way residents and visitors explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. It’s a creative initiative that maps out routes highlighting not just the most direct paths, but those that offer the greatest joy! Here you’ll find elements of natural beauty, art, and quirky landmarks. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).