Portland, Oregon, is known for its bookstores, food carts, tree-lined streets and views of Mount Hood on clear days. It is also a place where the weather sets the pace: dry, sunny summers and grey, wet winters. This guide covers Portland, Oregon, not Portland, Maine.
Our top pick: Portland: Columbia Gorge Tour, 3 Waterfalls & Vista House
Where hostels are
- Downtown: the handiest base, with MAX light rail, the streetcar, Pioneer Courthouse Square and Powell’s City of Books nearby.
- Pearl District: a former warehouse area of galleries and boutiques, a short walk north of downtown.
- Northwest (Nob Hill): residential streets with cafés and shops, reached by streetcar.
- Inner Southeast: neighborhoods such as Buckman and Hawthorne, quieter and more local, with good bus links and bike lanes.
Getting in from the airport
Portland International Airport is about 12 miles from downtown. The MAX Red Line takes roughly 40 minutes and drops you in the center. Taxis and rideshares are quicker but cost much more.
Safety and budget tips
Busy central areas are fine in the daytime, but some blocks downtown have visible street problems after dark, so check recent reviews for the street, stay in well-lit areas and use rideshares late. To save money, buy a day pass for MAX and the streetcar, rent a bike, and book dorm beds early for July to September. Oregon has no sales tax, which helps with shopping and meals.
Check hostel prices in Portland
Day trip to the Columbia River Gorge. Waterfalls and viewpoints are within about an hour of the city, and a guided trip saves you the drive.
Top-rated Portland tours
Portland: Columbia Gorge Tour, 3 Waterfalls & Vista House
A guided drive to the gorge's waterfalls and viewpoints.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Portland airport to a hostel downtown?
Take the MAX Red Line light rail from PDX to downtown. The ride takes roughly 40 minutes and costs much less than a taxi.
Is Portland, Oregon the same as Portland, Maine?
No, they are different cities on opposite coasts. This guide covers Portland, Oregon.
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