Travel & Outdoors

Swifties Unite

The Definitive Guide to Watching the Vaux’s Swifts in Portland

It’s basically our city’s Mardi Gras.

08/27/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

The Anti-KOA

Snow Peak Opens Luxe Campground and Spa on Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula

Expect a sea of sleek tents, mini cabins by a superstar architect, and a tranquil, Japanese-style spa.

08/23/2024 By Ellee Thalheimer

The Shining

Sleeping with Ghosts at Heceta Head Lighthouse’s Haunted B&B

The old lighthouse keepers' quarters, now a cozy inn, are reportedly home to a ghost named Rue. We paid a visit.

08/21/2024 By Jessi Bunch

Retreat Yourself

You Deserve a DIY Creative Retreat

Regardless of whether you call yourself an artist, a quick getaway offers both respite and play.

08/06/2024 By Erica Berry Illustrations by Mark Wang

Water World

Hike to These 6 Hidden-Away Swimming Holes near Portland

Working up a bit of a sweat means the water will feel extra delicious.

08/02/2024 By Portland Monthly Staff

Farm Life

As Pickathon Grows, Its Music Lineup Doubles Down on Young Talent

The beloved festival runs a venue in Portland and just launched a nonprofit. But its heart remains the annual Happy Valley campout, stacked this year with Gen Zers.

07/26/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

Heating Up

After Six Years, Hot Springs Resort Kah-Nee-Ta Has Reopened. Here’s What to Expect.

The Warm Springs resort is home to mineral soaking tubs, kid-friendly pools, and private cabanas with river views.

07/24/2024 By Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Grape Spaces

These Willamette Valley Wineries Have Redefined the Tasting Room

Well-built wines meet spaces with architectural significance.

07/23/2024 By Emily Teel

Sky's the Limit

This Nonprofit Makes Nature Expeditions Possible for All

Adventures Without Limits brings adaptive equipment and accessible pricing to the outdoors.

07/18/2024 By Dalila Brent

Bird to the Wise

Güero Bird Club Is Portland's Best Way to Get into Birding

The warm and welcoming group, led by the torta shop's kitchen manager, transforms novices into nerds. It worked on me.

07/17/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson Photography by Michael Raines Illustrations by Michael Novak

Prepare for Takeoff

PDX’s Revamped Main Terminal Opens Aug 14. Here Are the Highlights.

Construction isn’t over, but we’ll soon get a sprawling new lobby beer bar, faster security lines, and an unveiling of that dramatic timber roof.

07/16/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

Lake Life

Our 8 Favorite Lake Trips near Portland (Yes, You Can Still Book One)

Gorgeous views and easy water access await at these lakeside campgrounds.

07/10/2024 By Sam Stites

Swimming

Portland Is a Beach Town. It's True.

But which in-the-city Willamette River swim spot is the one for you and your crew?

07/09/2024 By Margaret Seiler, Michelle Harris, and Matthew Trueherz

Hear Here

Three Songs Shaped by the Pacific Northwest

Black Belt Eagle Scout, Laura Veirs, and Laura Gibson took inspiration from cedars, the sea, and haunted hotels.

07/09/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

Splish-Splash

Here’s a Map of the 17 Best Swimming Holes within 3ish Hours of Portland

You're welcome.

07/02/2024 By Portland Monthly Staff

Berry Good

Where to Pick Your Own Berries This Fruit-Filled Season

We found the perfect U-pick farm for every type of Portlander.

07/02/2024 By Portland Monthly Staff

Going Solo

Solo Travel Isn’t Always Comfortable, but It Is Always Revelatory

Free of witness, you meet a different version of yourself.

07/01/2024 Illustrations by Sophie Escavy-Lim By Erica Berry

Field Notes

A Magical Old-Growth Forest Hike Just an Hour from Portland

The Old Salmon River Trail promises towering trees, carpets of moss, and a perfect pool for a dip.

06/25/2024 By Ellee Thalheimer

Transit Trip

We Took the Bus to Camas and Washougal

Find river paths, vintage clothes, a floating restaurant, art galleries, woolly Pendleton temptations, and an indoor-outdoor barbershop.

06/21/2024 By Margaret Seiler

Green Gold

How a Tiny Town in Eastern Oregon Became a Destination for Weed

Marijuana is booming in Ontario. But the town itself doesn’t reap the bounty.

06/18/2024 By Tim Neville Photography by Sarah Miller

Portland Monthly