25 Best Romantic Things to Do In Portland

Are you planning to visit Portland with your partner? Nice choice! Portland may not come to mind when you think of love-struck cities, but there are more than a ton of exciting and romantic things to do. Romantic things create an enchanting atmosphere, igniting passion and deepening the connection between two hearts, allowing for cherished moments and unforgettable experiences.

You can find romance in almost every corner of this beautiful Oregon city, and romantic things to do in Portland include fine dining at restaurants, romantic walks in stunning surroundings, meeting your date at an intimate wine bar, live music, a luxury Spa, or an exclusive theater show and of course just relax with your date.

Being romantic is also easy in Portland Oregon because it is home to towering mountains, breathtaking ocean views, majestic forests, and a multitude of events. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of fun activities and unique bars, restaurants, and cafes to set the mood in Portland.

You have the opportunity to embrace nature and refocus your attention on each other. To get in the mood for Valentine’s Day, planning a special occasion, or a surprise; here are 25 romantic travel destinations and things to consider as well as romantic date ideas.

 Is Portland Oregon Romantic?

Romance is everywhere in Portland, Oregon. There are almost no limits to romantic activities here. Romantic options include walks, fine dining, cozy bars, sumptuous theaters, stunning parks, and many more. If an urban setting is your vision of romance, Oregon Portland is the best place to visit.

 Is Portland Oregon Romantic

25 Romantic Things to do in Portland:

Plan a romantic trip to Portland, Oregon, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, great sushi, dog-friendly and other restaurants, breakfast spots, nightlife, music, and some of the most beautiful gardens in the United States. Here are 25 romantic things to do in Portland, Oregon.

1. Xport

For a romantic evening, head to Xport, where you can sip champagne and feast on oysters while taking in epic city views. Located on the 16th floor of the Porter Hotel, the Xport offers multiple views of Portland, including the bridges and mountains.

Sit by the fire and warm up with one of their handcrafted cocktails, such as B. Cinderella’s Big Score blends of dark plantation rum, Rhum Neisson Agricole, Giffard banana liqueur, Aperol, velvety Falernum, lime, coconut milk, and citrus foam. The bar menu is a bit limited, but all dishes are delicious, especially the chicken tinga tacos.

Other appetizers like crab dumplings and chickpea fries are also delicious. For seafood lovers, there is a Raw Bar featuring oysters, Lomi Lomi, shrimp, Dungeness crab, tuna, caviar, and more.

2. Washington Park:

This popular park is located in the heart of Portland. It includes many other parks with miles of hiking trails, a sprawling rose garden, a large Japanese garden, and even a zoo (if you’re missing your dog or fancy feeding a giraffe). Take the free shuttle and visit many parks and museums in the afternoon for a romantic day of nature and discovery.

Washington Park

3. The Rose Garden:

Visit the rose garden! Located in Washington Park, this beautiful and otherworldly garden is filled with varieties of roses of all shapes, sizes, and colors. This vibrant and colorful area is home to ivy-clad benches, fountains, and roses that you and your partner will love strolling through.

4. Portland Japanese Garden:

This mesmerizing garden is also located in Washington Park. Although this garden is no less beautiful, the atmosphere is different from the International Rose Garden.

The Portland Japanese Garden often hosts a series of small events, such as B. Exhibitions of Japanese bamboo art or tea shows. , and carries the serene and calm atmosphere of another time. Beware; you might even forget you’re in Portland for a while!

5. Multnomah Falls:

One day trip in particular, perfect for a romantic getaway (or even just a family trip, it really is perfect) is a short, beautiful hike to the mystical waterfall at Multnomah Falls. Located less than an hour outside of town, this stunning waterfall is a great excuse to share hot chocolate and snap photos.

6. Portland Brewery Bike Tour:

Portland is famous for its beer, so try this fun way to visit some of the city’s best breweries. This tour takes in the Pearl District and some of the city’s most famous bars. You won’t feel as guilty about the carbs in beer. It’s practically a win-win situation.

Portland Brewery Bike Tour

7. Voodoo Donuts:

Something you definitely have to do in Portland is grabbed a donut from Voodoo Donuts! This donut shop is unique, quirky, and so much fun to visit (basically Portland in a nutshell). Crazy combinations end with an amazing taste! Think you’ll never like a maple bar and a bacon donut in your life? Think again: Good things really do come in pink boxes.

Pro tip: Voodoo donuts are cash only, so be sure to bring some. If you feel the line is too long, go to Voodoo 2!

8. Blooming Moon Wellness Spa:

The Blooming Moon Wellness Spa offers 60-minute and 90-minute couples massages. It is made up of dedicated professionals who strive to provide the best treatments to the Portland community. Independent therapists set their own hours, meaning clients receive the exceptional, attentive care they deserve.

The full spa menu includes a range of massage techniques, facials, body wraps, scrubs, waxing, pedicures, manicures, and even acupuncture. They offer an intimate and luxurious massage performed in a tranquil setting shared with two therapists.

9. Living Room Theater:

The Living Room Theater in downtown Portland, Oregon is just one of two such theaters in the United States. The Living Room Theater is the perfect place to catch an independent film in an elegant yet supremely comfortable setting that combines a European-style cafe and lounge with relaxed seats.

In the intimate theater, you’ll find oversized chairs with ottomans. Their cafe and lounge is a trendy place to hang out, serving craft beers and great food. You can decide whether you want to eat in the canteen or have food delivered to you in the theater.

10. Portland Walking Tours:

A fun way to experience the city and spend time with someone, Portland Walking Tours offers a variety of walking tours of the Portland area. Each tour provides a fun way to learn all about Portland and visit popular places.

Portland Walking Tours

To immerse yourself in the drinking scene, take the “We Got tipsy in Portland” tour which not only teaches you history but also visits many interesting places. If you are a foodie then the Epicurean Tour is a must. This food tour showcases some of the best local artisan produce Portland has to offer. If you’re a history buff, step back in time on the Underground Portland tour, where you’ll learn all about Portland Shanghai’s legendary tunnels.

11. El Gallo Taqueria:

Must visit El Gallo Taqueria, located in the heart of the Woodstock district of Southeast Portland and has recently been converted from a charming dining car into a hip, Brick, and mortar restaurant.

All of their dishes are prepared with high-quality, regional, and sustainable ingredients. Don’t miss their “Melt Your Face” salsa.

12. EverGreen Escapes – Portland Day Tours:

EverGreen Escapes is a tourism company that offers a variety of tours and experiences in and around Portland with the goal of connecting people, places, and the environment.

Evergreen Escapes offers personalized tours for everyone from exploring the magnificent surrounding landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge, majestic Mt. Hood, and legendary Mt.St.Helens to exciting cultural and urban adventures.

13. Caravan – The Tiny House Hotel:

It’s a super cute and romantic hotel in Portland, perfect for couples in love. A super cute and romantic Portland abode is here in a uniquely modified caravan with all the amenities creatively and gently created and provided. Romantic and cozy in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, you can spend your rest together at your own pace.

14. Kiva Tea Bar and Spa:

It’s an intimate spa with special packages and treatments for couples only. Not only is it a great place to enjoy wonderful teas from around the world and healthy lunches that taste amazing, but it’s also home to the luxurious Kiva Day Spa.

Kiva Tea Bar and Spa

It offers a wide range of luxurious spa treatments including foot baths, various massages including raindrop massage and hot stone massage, facials, and a variety of body treatments. They also have romantic packages for couples that include candlelit couples massages and foot baths with champagne and chocolates.

15. Oregon Symphony:

In its centennial successful history, the orchestra has seen a number of internationally renowned music directors and guest conductors, including Aaron Copland, Maurice Ravel, and Igor Stravinsky, as well as many leading performers. It continues programs and a variety of community services.  If you’re wondering what to do in Portland at night, catch a performance by the Oregon Symphony.

16. Architectural Heritage Center Tours:

The Architectural Heritage Center is dedicated to preserving the architecture, history, and heritage of the Portland metropolitan area.

The center houses one of the largest collections of architectural artifacts in the United States has a world-class research library and is home to a wide variety of exhibits, tours, programs, and performances throughout the year.

The Architectural Heritage Center also offers educational programs and monthly exhibitions by local and international artists.

17. The Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel:

Romance beckons at elegant 4-star hostel-inspired Kimpton RiverPlace. Its serene atmosphere complements the timeless flow of the river outside. Located south of downtown Portland, guests have easy access to the city while enjoying a charming riverfront location. This well-appointed hotel offers many amenities including, fittingly, dinner at King Tide Seafood Restaurant.

The Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel

18. Portland’s Forest Park:

If you want to spend some time outdoors but don’t feel like hiking Mount Hood, Forest Park is the place for you. At over 5,000 acres, it is one of the largest urban parks in America. Recent travelers have commented on how close Forest Park is to the city, yet how far from the wilderness it feels. They also commented on the variety of hikes for all levels.

19. Blue Star Donuts

The Blue Star Donuts owner selected interesting dough (delicious, fluffy French brioche which is the same as traditional yeast donuts. Their donuts are made by using local ingredients.

For their fillings and toppings, they consume organic fruits, and the result is a perfect bite that’s delicious and full of flavor. The number of varieties is growing every day and you will be tempted to try them all.

20. Plate and Pitchfork:

Each summer since 2003, Plate and Pitchfork have offered a unique dining opportunity in and around Portland that takes the popular farm-to-fork philosophy a step further.

Plate and Pitchfork

The event begins with a glass of wine and an appetizer, followed by a guided tour of the farm by the host farmer himself. Upon return, all guests sit down to enjoy a meal prepared by renowned local chefs, different for each event, prepared with ingredients grown on the farm itself. Meals consist of four or five courses, all paired with matching wines.

21. Toffee Club:

The Toffee Club is a traditional English football pub in Southeast Portland, which was originally opened by Niki Diamond, Jack Hoppins, and David Carbo in 2016.

The relaxed pub strives to replicate authentic English pub culture and serves a wide range of delicious bar food, including favorites such as Scotch Eggs, Pork Pies, Fish and Chips, and Sausage Mash.

Special weekly events include quiz nights on Wednesdays, dance parties on Friday nights, and indie-pop DJ sets on Sundays.

22. Hoyt Arboretum:

The Hoyt Arboretum is a living museum of trees and plants where visitors can learn all about botany and the importance of trees and plants to the environment. The Hoyt Arboretum is a beautiful romantic site in Portland. It covers 189 acres and contains miles of hiking trails.

23. Portland Art Museum:

The Portland Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest and one of the oldest in the United States. The museum houses an impressive collection of more than 42,000 objects reflecting the history of art from ancient times to the present day.

Portland Art Museum

Works on display include Asian and American art, modern and contemporary art, prints, drawings, photographs, and an exquisite display of English silver. The museum forms the cornerstone of Portland’s cultural district and includes the recently renovated modernist-style Belluschi Building and the brand’s historic building.

24. Ava Gene’s:

An authentic Italian dining experience waits at Ava Gene’s fine dining restaurant in Portland. The Roman-inspired menu features traditional dishes like fritti or shrimp linguine, all made from the finest local produce and meats grown and raised by farmers and ranchers in the Pacific Northwest. Ava Gene’s also offers an impressive list of regional Italian wines as well as grappa and Amari.

25. Veggie Grill:

Couples can enjoy amazing and flavorful veggie meals at Portland’s Veggie Grill. They can try their signature dishes like The Stack or Santa Fe Crispy Chicken. Seasonal specials are also present there like the Sonoran Summer Bowl. You definitely don’t skip their sweetheart fries and carrot cake!

Romantic Date Ideas in Portland Oregon:

Portland is anything but ordinary, so you’ll need to think outside the box to impress a date here. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of fun activities and unique bars, restaurants, and cafes to set the mood. Whether you’re planning a first date or your 50th anniversary, here are some foolproof romantic date ideas.

Romantic Date Ideas in Portland Oregon

1. Indulge in Drag BrunchL

It might be a commentary on the absurdities of recent years, but drag shows in Portland are bigger than ever and today it’s more about brunch than late-night burlesque. Places like the Nest Lounge, Botanist, and Bit House Collective often host drag brunches and of course, there’s always historic Darcelle XV – it’s hard to beat Darcelle’s. A fun and engaging time, a drag brunch date is a chance to cheer each other up while enjoying a show.

2. Nature and Nibbles on the Westside:

Pick a foggy day and stroll through the blooms at Washington Park’s International Rose Test Garden as Heathcliff and Catherine in the Heathers. Or hike like the friendly Portlanders, whatever the weather, along the many trails of the Hoyt Arboretum.

Then go to Elephants Delicatessen, 115 N.W. 22nd Ave., for a drink, snack, or meal that can be adjusted for any weather. The great thing about Elephants is that you can spend a little more and get a full meal, like a chicken pot pie or the “Grown Up” mac and cheese; choose some tempting dishes from the hot and cold bar or share a cheese and charcuterie board.

3. Hike and Dine with a View, Columbia Gorge:

Hike Columbia Gorge trails, rated easy to difficult, for $5 or less depending on whether you have to pay a daily fee. The Multnomah/Wahkeena Falls Loop Trail, which offers views of the Fairy Falls (above), is rated moderate or good for beginners.

Make sure you work up an appetite because the Original Chicken ‘n Dumplins menu is huge: you can share it (for a fee) or take it home for another full meal. The same goes for fried chicken. You will impress your date with your knowledge of the historical and off-the-beaten path.

4. Rent a Movie from One of Portland’s Best Shops:

Remember the days when you had to rent a movie at a store instead of just finding it on one of the countless streaming sites owned by giant corporations? Movie Madness in SE Belmont is the highlight of this store.

4. Rent a Movie from One of Portland’s Best Shops

Thanks to the community that came together to support it and the Hollywood Theater that bought it, Movie Madness weathered the pandemic (and the decade of online media and marketplace consolidation) and is back for business today. It still carries that weird and weird cinematic that can’t be found anywhere else, not even online. For a date night, it’s hard to beat.

5. Head out on a beer tour:

Portland is known for being a soap town, and for good reason. As well as the wealth of breweries we have and an abundance of fantastic bars, beer festivals, tours, and brewpubs.

Breweries like Stormbreaker and Baerlic have managed to construct some of the city’s largest street bars, while others like Ecliptic Brewing have had huge patios from the start.

This means it’s an outdoor venue where you can learn about some of Portland’s finest cultural exports. Some places even have indoor dining for those who are vaccinated and feel comfortable doing so.

Romantic Things to do in Portland – FAQs

Does Portland have a nightlife?
Nightlife in Portland isn’t just about clubbing. Portland comes alive after hours with citywide open mic nights, nationally recognized karaoke venues, delicious late-night dining, adult venues, and plenty of non-alcoholic fun.
How many days should you spend in Portland Maine?
3 days in Portland Maine is the perfect amount of time. With beautiful lighthouses, a booming food scene, and romantic streets to wander, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been here before and start planning your next visit right now.
Is Portland Maine worth visiting?
They call Maine “vacation country.” Portland is located in southern Maine on Casco Bay, about a two-hour drive from Boston. There are beaches and a ferry service for visitors wishing to explore the bay, including some of its larger islands.

 

Conclusion:

All of these activities are sweet, adventurous, and exciting experiences to share with your partner and you are sure to have an incredibly romantic time exploring the hidden gem of Portland.

But Portland isn’t just about creating fond memories with the one you love. It’s also a great city to spend time with friends and family. So if you’re starting to miss the lush trees and great beer, rest assured there’s plenty to do and share with others when you return.

 

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