Honeymoon Activities in Portland, Oregon
Planning a honeymoon in Portland or looking for things to do in the area? This guide can help you find date spots, all-day adventures, and places to eat or drink within an hour of Portland, Oregon.
Things to Do Outdoors
Hiking
Portland is perfect for nature enthusiasts and has a multitude of places to hike or explore. One of the closest spots is Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States. Portland sits near several mountains, which visitors can view from Mt Hood National Forest or Mt Tabor Park alongside other scenic views. You can find more scenic locations at Columbia River Gorge, Rooster Rock, and the Hoyt Arboretum. Rooster Rock features a clothing-optional beach along the Columbia River Gorge and is popular for outdoor sports.
High Adventure
For some exciting outdoor activities, Portland has an amusement park located along the Willamette river. High adventure lovers will love the Pumpkin Ridge Zip Tour in North Plains, Oregon. When I visited Pumpkin Ridge, I was nervous, but the experience was so fun and the views were breathtaking.
City of Roses
If you are looking for the City of Roses signature roses, the International Rose Testing Garden or Peninsula Park Rose Garden would be excellent stops. Be sure to check if roses are in bloom when you go if that is the reason you are going! Peninsula Park is also a potential wedding venue if you plan on being married in Portland. For flowers other than roses, Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden would be a beautiful place to stop and smell the azaleas. This garden is also available for weddings.
Gardens
For nature closer to town, Portland boasts of a few themed gardens and parks to explore. The Japanese Garden and Chinese Garden provide cultural experiences while exploring. The Grotto is a Catholic Garden known for quiet reflection. Council Crest Park offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, including Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens. The Portland Nursery is a plant shop that offers gardening classes. History enthusiasts will love the Lone Fir Cemetery where they provide historical tours and other events throughout the year.
Things to Do Indoors
Entertainment
Depending on the season, Portland can be drizzly with rain. Some fun indoor options include mini golf, escape rooms, giant book store browsing, or arcade games. There is also live theater and a fancy movie theater for various live entertainment options. If you’re looking for the urban scene, Pearl District and Nob Hill are streets ripe for exploring.
Museums
You can explore another piece of history by visiting the Oregon Historical Society, a museum and research library that preserves and shares the rich history of Oregon through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs. Other museums in Portland include the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, which holds After Dark events for those 21+, the Portland Art Museum, and the immersive art museum Hopscotch. The Pittock Mansion is another museum option that provides views of the city and surrounding area.
Spas
Sometimes you need a moment to relax in the midst of a vacation. Knot Springs, Everett House, and Blooming Moon provide spa treatments and massages for those looking for some stress relief and relaxing atmospheres.
Places to Eat/Drink
Food
When in Portland, one should taste the flavors of the Pacific Northwest at least once. Fireside is a cozy neighborhood restaurant with locally sourced ingredients and Jacqueline is a seafood-focused restaurant known for its fresh oysters. For a unique and high-end dining experience, Le Pigeon offers chef-driven tasting menus that change with the seasons. Ken’s Artisan Bakery is a popular spot for treats or pizza as long as you are comfortable with a potentially long line.
A few Aspen & Birch local favorites are Hawthorne Asylum Food Carts , Killer Burger, Ohana Hawaiian Cafe, Akira Sushi, and any McMenamins location.
Drinks
Inside of the Hotel Deluxe lies the Driftwood Room, an intimate, retro-inspired cocktail bar. Heavenly Creatures is a wine bar offering a selection of wines and small plates in a modern atmosphere. The Sapphire Hotel is a vintage-inspired cocktail bar. The Multnomah Whiskey Library requires a reservation and additional fee for nonmembers, but is known for extensive whiskey collection and ambiance.
Desserts
Searching for a sweet treat? You can find delicious dessert options at Papa Haydn, Cloud City Ice Cream, Lauretta Jean’s Pie Bakery, Artisserie Fine Bakery, Jen’s Pastries, and Jinju Patisserie. Many of these places can also make your wedding cake if you plan to get hitched in Portland.
Weekend Trips
Planning a weekend getaway? The Kennedy School doubles as a hotel and a hangout for adults with a brewery, spa, and restaurant, all located in a converted school building with some of the school’s original features. There are a few hotels that offer wedding venues inside including Hotel Vintage and Sentinel. For outdoor wedding venues, see the Top 10 Forest Wedding Venues Near Portland blog post.
Want to get pictures at any of the locations listed? We’d love to help! Head to Wedding Info or Portrait Info for more details about photo options.
About the Author
I’m Kacie
Hello! I love running, embroidery, beautiful photos, and hanging out with my husband. I currently reside in Austin, Texas.
Though I do not have any background in photography, I love looking at the art that photographers create. I am so excited to be working with Kate to continue to bring joy to clients via photography!
A lover of math, I have taught in a middle school for two years and hope to continue to serve in the public education system for years to come.
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