Explore Multnomah County Through A Comprehensive Travel Guide
If you’re planning to visit Multnomah County in Oregon, you’re in for a treat. This county has something for everyone, from stunning natural wonders to vibrant nightlife and everything in between. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide that covers all the top attractions, hidden gems, and local experiences. So, let’s dive in!
Top attractions in Multnomah County
Start your trip by visiting some of the county’s top attractions. The most popular one is Multnomah Falls, a breathtaking waterfall that attracts millions of visitors every year. You can hike to the top of the falls for stunning views or take a leisurely stroll around the base of the falls. Other notable attractions include the Oregon Zoo, the Portland Art Museum, and the Columbia River Gorge.
Hidden gems in Multnomah County
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Multnomah County has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Take a stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, or explore the Pittock Mansion, a historic home with stunning views of the city. For something more unusual, check out the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium, a museum of oddities and curiosities.
Food scene in Multnomah County
Multnomah County is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. Be sure to try some of the local favorites, such as Voodoo Doughnut, Salt & Straw ice cream, and Pok Pok Thai restaurant. For a taste of the city’s food carts, head to the Alder Street Food Cart Pod, where you can find everything from Mexican street tacos to Korean barbecue.
Budget-friendly tips for Multnomah County
Traveling on a budget? No problem. Multnomah County has plenty of affordable and even free activities to enjoy. Take a hike in Forest Park, the largest urban forest in the country, or visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden, where you can experience a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. The Portland Saturday Market is also a great way to experience local crafts and food without breaking the bank.
Outdoor adventures in Multnomah County
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Multnomah County has plenty of opportunities for adventure. Go hiking in the Columbia River Gorge, where you can explore scenic trails and stunning waterfalls. For something more challenging, try rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park or skiing at Mount Hood.
Historical landmarks in Multnomah County
Multnomah County has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks that reflect this. Visit the Oregon Historical Society Museum to learn about the state’s past, or explore the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a 19th-century military fort. For a glimpse into Portland’s past, take a walking tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods.
Family-friendly activities in Multnomah County
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Multnomah County. Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, where you can explore hands-on exhibits and a planetarium. The Portland Children’s Museum is also a great place to take younger kids, with interactive exhibits and a whimsical outdoor play area.
Off-the-beaten-path experiences in Multnomah County
If you’re looking for something truly unique, Multnomah County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Take a tour of the Shanghai Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels that were used for human trafficking in the 19th century. Or, visit the International Rose Test Garden, where you can see over 10,000 roses in bloom.
Natural wonders in Multnomah County
From waterfalls to forests to mountains, Multnomah County is full of natural wonders to explore. In addition to Multnomah Falls, be sure to check out the Oneonta Gorge, a stunning slot canyon, and the Mount Hood National Forest, where you can hike, ski, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Vibrant nightlife in Multnomah County
When the sun goes down, Multnomah County comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Visit the McMenamins Crystal Ballroom for live music and dancing, or check out the Alberta Arts District, where you can find plenty of bars and restaurants. For something more low-key, head to the Kennedy School, a former elementary school turned hotel and bar.
Local markets in Multnomah County
If you’re a fan of local produce and artisanal goods, Multnomah County has plenty of markets to explore. Visit the Portland Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and baked goods, or check out the Portland Saturday Market, where you can find handmade crafts and street food.
Beaches and mountains in Multnomah County
Despite being a landlocked county, Multnomah County has plenty of opportunities for beach and mountain adventures. Head to the Oregon Coast for stunning beaches and seaside towns, or visit Mount Hood for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. For something in between, check out the Hood River Valley, where you can find orchards, vineyards, and stunning views of Mount Hood.
Cultural immersion in Multnomah County
Multnomah County is a diverse and multicultural place, and there are plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. Visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden to learn about Chinese culture and history, or explore the Portland Art Museum, which has a large collection of Native American art. For a taste of the city’s Latino culture, head to the Milwaukie Farmers Market, where you can find food, music, and crafts from Latin America.
Art and music scene in Multnomah County
Multnomah County has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, venues, and festivals to explore. Visit the Portland Art Museum to see works by local and international artists, or check out the Mississippi Studios for live music in an intimate setting. For something more unconventional, check out the Alberta Street Art Walk, where you can see murals and street art by local artists.
Walking tours in Multnomah County
One of the best ways to explore Multnomah County is on foot. Take a walking tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods to see the architecture and learn about the city’s past, or explore the Portland Underground, a network of tunnels and basements beneath the city. For a more scenic walk, head to the Wildwood Trail, a 30-mile trail that winds through Forest Park.
Architectural marvels in Multnomah County
Multnomah County is home to some impressive architectural marvels, both historic and modern. Check out the St. Johns Bridge, a stunning suspension bridge that spans the Willamette River, or visit the Oregon State Capitol, a neoclassical building with beautiful murals and sculptures. For a more modern take on architecture, head to the Portland Building, a postmodern skyscraper.
Historical sites in Multnomah County
Finally, don’t miss the chance to visit Multnomah County’s many historical sites. Visit the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park to learn about the famous explorers, or check out the Bonneville Dam, a 20th-century engineering marvel. For something more recent, visit the Oregon Holocaust Memorial, a moving tribute to the victims of the Holocaust.
With so much to see and do in Multnomah County, we hope this travel guide helps you plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for natural wonders, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, this county has something for everyone.