Things to Do in Portland:
A Scenic Experience You’ll Never Forget
When it comes to things to do in Portland, most visitors think of food carts, breweries, Powell’s City of Books, or hikes through Forest Park. And while those are must-sees, there’s one experience that takes Portland sightseeing to another level – literally.
With Envi Adventures, you can hop into a small plane and soar over the city, Multnomah Falls, Mt. Hood, and even the Oregon Coast. It’s one of the most unique and unforgettable ways to experience the Pacific Northwest, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for something new.
This guide highlights how a scenic flight fits into your Portland itinerary, plus a wide variety of other things to do for couples, families, and solo travelers.
Why a Scenic Flight Belongs on Your Portland Bucket List
Portland is surrounded by natural wonders: waterfalls, volcanic mountains, rivers, and forests. Seeing it all from the ground is breathtaking, but from above, you’ll get an entirely new perspective on the region’s dramatic landscapes.
Unlike larger tour operators, Envi Adventures offers intimate flights in a small aircraft with big windows and personalized experiences. Flights leave from Troutdale Airport, just 25 minutes from downtown Portland, making them easy to add into your trip
Envi Adventures Scenic Flight Options
1. Portland City Flight (The Portlandia)
See downtown, bridges, and Mt. Hood in the distance.
2. Columbia River Gorge and Waterfalls Tour
Check out Multnomah Falls, Vista House, dramatic river cliffs, and more.
3. Mt. Hood or Mt. St. Helens Adventure
Soar over volcanic peaks, seeing things from a whole new perspective.
4. Coastal Cruise
Enjoy a breathtaking journey toward Cannon Beach and the Pacific Ocean.
Things to Do in Portland for Couples
Things to Do in Portland for Couples
Portland is a naturally romantic city, with lush gardens, rooftop views, and wine country nearby, and a scenic flight is the perfect way to kick off a getaway for two.
Sample Couples Itinerary:
- Morning: Stroll hand-in-hand through the Portland Japanese Garden, known for its serenity and beauty.
- Midday: Grab lunch downtown, then take a sunset scenic flight with Envi Adventures for golden skies and glittering city lights.
- Evening: End the night with rooftop cocktails at one of the city’s many popular restaurants.
- Day Two Option: Head out to Willamette Valley wine country for a day of tastings.
Other romantic things to do in Portland for couples include:
- Visiting the International Rose Test Garden in bloom.
- Booking a spa day at Knot Springs.
- Exploring the art galleries and boutique shops in the Alberta Arts District.
Things to Do in Portland for Families
Portland is one of the most family-friendly cities in the Pacific Northwest, with plenty to do indoors and outdoors. Envi Adventures even welcomes kids onboard, making a scenic flight a fun, unforgettable family memory – and a core memory, to boot.
Sample Family Itinerary:
- Morning: Take a Columbia River Gorge and Waterfalls flight with Envi Adventures. Kids love spotting waterfalls from the air.
- Midday: Stop at Multnomah Falls for a short hike and family photos.
- Afternoon: Visit OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) for interactive exhibits and submarine tours.
- Evening: Wrap up the day at the Oregon Zoo, or ride the Portland Aerial Tram for city views.
Other family-friendly things to do in Portland include:
- Exploring Forest Park trails.
- Grabbing lunch at one of Portland’s food cart pods.
- Visiting the Portland Saturday Market for crafts, snacks, and music.
Things to Do in Portland for Solo Travelers
Exploring Portland alone is rewarding. The city is safe, welcoming, and filled with interesting neighborhoods and experiences. A scenic flight is a great way to treat yourself and see more than you ever could in one day on foot.
Sample Solo Itinerary:
- Morning: Start with coffee at Coava or Stumptown. Then, head to Troutdale for a Mt. Hood or Mt. St. Helens flight with Envi Adventures.
- Midday: Return to the city and get lost in Powell’s City of Books.
- Afternoon: Hike through Forest Park or stroll the Alberta Arts District for murals and shops.
- Evening: Try local bites at a food cart pod and catch live music at the Crystal Ballroom.
Other great things to do in Portland solo include:
- Visiting the Portland Art Museum.
- Taking photos at the Lan Su Chinese Garden.
- Brewery hopping (many spots are welcoming to solo visitors).
More Portland Attractions to Add to Your List
No matter who you’re traveling with, these are classic Portland stops worth adding to any itinerary:
- International Rose Test Garden (May–September is best)
- Lan Su Chinese Garden in Old Town Chinatown
- Alberta Arts District for murals, galleries, and boutique shopping
- Craft Beer Tasting at Deschutes, Breakside, or Great Notion
- Live Music at venues like Crystal Ballroom or Revolution Hall
FAQs: Activities in Portland
What is the number one thing to do in Portland?
While Portland is famous for food carts, breweries, and Powell’s Books, one of the most unique and memorable activities is booking a scenic flight with Envi Adventures to see the city and surrounding landscapes from above. Book a flight today.
What are free things to do in Portland?
- Hiking in Forest Park
- Visiting the International Rose Test Garden
- Exploring street art in the Alberta Arts District
- Strolling the Portland Saturday Market
- Walking or biking across the city’s bridges
What are romantic things to do in Portland?
- Sunset flight with Envi Adventures
- A date at the Portland Japanese Garden
- Wine tasting in Willamette Valley
- Dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking downtown
What can families do in Portland?
- Take a family-friendly flight with Envi Adventures.
- Visit OMSI and the Oregon Zoo.
- Ride the Portland Aerial Tram.
- Hike at Multnomah Falls.
Is Portland worth visiting alone?
Absolutely. Portland is very welcoming to solo travelers. Between coffee shops, bookstores, hikes, and cultural events, there are endless things to do alone – and a scenic flight is a great way to meet fellow travelers while having an unforgettable experience.
The Bottom-Line: The Best Things to Do in Portland
From waterfalls and mountains to world-class food and culture, Portland has something for everyone. But if you want to see the city and surrounding landscapes in a way most travelers never do, booking a scenic flight with Envi Adventures is an absolute must.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a solo adventure, make sure to put a scenic flight at the top of your list of things to do in Portland.
Ready to experience Portland from above? Book your flight with Envi Adventures today.
