More Travel & Outdoors

Hit List

The Best Farms and Orchards for Apple Picking near Portland

We’ve narrowed down the region’s autumnal offerings, with great mountain views, kid-friendly vibes, and rare varietals ripe for the picking.

09/04/2025 By Alex Frane and Portland Monthly Staff

Transit Trip

We Took the New North Coast Express Bus to Rockaway Beach

This summer weekend bus heads straight for Oregon Coast hits like Tillamook and Cannon Beach. We had the cushy coach practically to ourselves.

08/21/2025 By Margaret Seiler

Coast Is Clear

The Burly All-Terrain Wheelchairs Rolling Across Oregon’s Beaches

David’s Chair helps people with mobility challenges access the joys of the shore.

08/19/2025 By Amelia Arvesen

Wine Country

The Most Exciting Chefs in the Willamette Valley Right Now

‘Farm to table’ is nothing new. But Oregon’s wine country cooks are making local food feel fresh.

08/18/2025 By Alex Frane, Brooke Jackson-Glidden, Emily Teel, and Matthew Trueherz Photography by Michael Novak

Animal Planet

Have the Vaux’s Swifts Ditched Chapman for Good?

Last fall, the birds abandoned their longtime roost. Now, a city waits in suspense.

08/11/2025 By Rebecca Jacobson

Soil Deposit

The Luxe Conglomerate Quietly Gaining Ground in the Willamette Valley

New money famously draws skepticism when coming into the valley. What’s different about the Ground’s mini wellness empire?

07/29/2025 By Jordan Michelman

Willamette Valley

When in Wine Country, Sleep Among the Vines

Willamette Valley wineries have turned grain silos and farmhouses into boutique inns and vacation rentals.

07/22/2025 By Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Summer Weekends

Portland Staycation: Dinner and a Movie (and a Swim)

Craft a dreamy weekend out of the house without leaving the metro area.

07/21/2025 By Margaret Seiler

Getaway

Where to Stay in Willamette Valley Wine Country

Hotels, inns, and a trailer park for an overnight in the Valley.

07/15/2025 By Alex Frane, Brooke Jackson-Glidden, and Matthew Trueherz

Summer Weekends

Refreshing, Sand-Free Ways to Cool Off This Weekend

Pools, splash pads, and waterslides any kid would love.

07/09/2025 By Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Wine Time

6 Ways to Taste Wine in the Willamette Valley

Whether you’re looking for rare varietals or simply a great view.

07/02/2025 By Alex Frane and Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Water World

The 18 Best Swimming Holes Within 3 Hours of Portland

From hidden gems to trusty stalwarts, here’s where to cool down when the mercury soars.

06/30/2025 By Portland Monthly Staff

Fourth of July

Fourth of July Fireworks in Portland and Beyond

Leave the explosives to the pros. From the waterfront to Oaks Park, Astoria to Hood River, here’s where to enjoy some spectacular displays.

06/24/2025 By Portland Monthly Staff

Month Ahead

What to Do in Oregon in July

Chainsaw races, lavender trails, hazelnut festivals, and dory boats on parade.

06/24/2025 By Rebecca Jacobson and Portland Monthly Staff

Transit Trip

How to Camp Without a Car Close to Portland

Go glamping by bus, or bring your own tent for a car-free getaway.

06/03/2025 By Margaret Seiler

Maximum Fun

The 22 Best Summer Events in Oregon

When it comes to festivals and fairs, our state doesn't mess around.

05/30/2025 By Rebecca Jacobson Illustrations by Davide Comai

Month Ahead

What to Do in Oregon in June

Goonies Weekend takes Astoria, the rodeo ropes Sisters, and a Sasquatch fest stomps through Glide.

05/28/2025 By Rebecca Jacobson and Portland Monthly Staff

Rest Your Head

Where to Stay in the Columbia River Gorge

Historic hotels, micro-cabins with private soaking tubs, and triple-stack bunk rooms await in Portland's backyard.

05/06/2025 By Rebecca Jacobson and Portland Monthly Staff

Month Ahead

What to Do in Oregon in May

Sip cider in Hood River, ride a fat-tire bike in Cannon Beach, and party with aliens in McMinnville.

04/29/2025 By Rebecca Jacobson and Portland Monthly Staff

In Bloom

10 Great Wildflower Hikes within 90 Minutes of Portland

Wildflower season is calling. Celebrate with some of our favorite floral displays in the region.

04/24/2025 By Portland Monthly Staff