Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Portland, Oregon, United States

Portland, United States, Portland, Unique & Niche Travel Pages, Unusual & Offbeat Destinations

Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Portland, Oregon, United States

1. Powell's City of Books

One of the world's largest independent bookstores, offering over a million titles in a historic building.
  • Unique Collection: Offers rare and out-of-print books, as well as new releases
  • Community Hub: Hosts events, readings, and workshops for the literary community
  • Architectural Interest: In a beautiful, restored historic building that dates back to the late 1940s

2. Voodoo Doughnut

Famous for its eccentric and creative doughnuts in fun shapes and flavors.
  • Unique Donut Designs: Offers unusual doughnut varieties, such as the Voodoo Doll and the Maple Bacon Bar
  • Cultural Atmosphere: Embodies Portland's quirky culture with a fun-loving vibe
  • Iconic Branding: Recognized worldwide due to its unique brand and distinctive pink boxes

3. The Museum of Unnatural History

A private museum dedicated to exploring the wonders of mythical creatures, folklore, and popular culture.
  • Unconventional Exhibits: Features exhibits on legendary monsters like Bigfoot, Loch Ness Monster, and Chupacabra
  • Hands-On Activities: Offers interactive activities for visitors to learn about mythical creatures in a fun way
  • Small and Intimate: A smaller, more intimate museum that allows for a personalized experience

4. The Portland Art Museum Sculpture Garden

An outdoor gallery displaying over 80 works of art by renowned artists such as Rodin, Moore, and Calder.
  • Rare Outdoor Collection: One of the few places in the United States to view a large collection of sculptures outdoors
  • Beautiful Setting: Located adjacent to the Portland Art Museum, amidst serene gardens and fountains
  • Inspiring Artwork: Encourages visitors to reflect on the impact of sculpture in our daily lives

5. The Portland Underground Tours

Explore Portland's hidden underground history through guided tours of its secret passageways and speakeasies.
  • Hidden History: Uncovers the forgotten stories and secrets that shaped Portland's past
  • Mystery and Adventure: Provides an exciting and educational experience for visitors
  • Historic Significance: Highlights the impact of Prohibition on Portland's development

6. Cry Baby Bridge

An infamous bridge where many believe ghostly cries can be heard from the restless spirits of lost children.
  • Ghostly Encounters: Offers a chilling and mysterious experience for paranormal enthusiasts
  • Historical Significance: Linked to the tragic story of a young girl who lost her life here in the 1950s
  • Scenic Beauty: Located in a beautiful park with walking trails and water views

7. The Cathedral Park Wings Mural

A stunning mural featuring two enormous wings that invite visitors to join in an angelic pose.
  • Photography Opportunities: Provides a unique and Instagrammable backdrop for capturing memories
  • Artistic Expression: Inspires visitors to reflect on themes of love, hope, and community
  • Local Landmark: Has become a beloved symbol of Portland's vibrant arts scene

8. The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

An eclectic museum filled with strange and intriguing artifacts, curiosities, and oddities.
  • Bizarre Exhibits: Features bizarre and unusual collections, such as shrunken heads and cursed artifacts
  • Interactive Experiences: Allows visitors to participate in hands-on activities and puzzles
  • Spooky Atmosphere: Creates a spooky and entertaining environment that appeals to both kids and adults

9. The Oregon Vortex

A mysterious spot where gravity seems to behave strangely, causing objects to appear to move or tilt unexpectedly.
  • Gravity Illusions: Provides a fun and educational experience that challenges our understanding of physics
  • Picturesque Setting: Located in a beautiful forest with hiking trails nearby
  • Family-Friendly Attraction: Offers a unique experience that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages

10. The Last Tuesday Society

An enigmatic club dedicated to the strange and esoteric, offering events, workshops, and exhibitions.
  • Esoteric Knowledge: Provides opportunities to learn about obscure topics like the occult, alchemy, and cryptozoology
  • Community Experience: Encourages engagement with a diverse community of curious minds
  • Immersive Atmosphere: Creates an immersive environment filled with art, music, and performances

11. The Tiny Town of Government Camp

A quaint mountain village nestled at the base of Mount Hood, offering a picturesque and peaceful escape.
  • Natural Beauty: Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with skiing, hiking, and fishing nearby
  • Small-Town Charm: Features charming shops, cozy cafes, and a friendly community atmosphere
  • Ski Resort Access: Provides easy access to Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort and other winter recreation activities

12. The Portland Maze Garden

A beautiful garden featuring a sprawling hedge maze with over 3,000 yews and an enchanting gazebo.
  • Challenging Maze: Offers a fun challenge for visitors to navigate the intricate hedge maze
  • Peaceful Setting: Provides a serene and picturesque atmosphere for relaxation and reflection
  • Historic Significance: Part of the historic Washington Park, which dates back to the early 20th century

13. The Pittock Mansion

A historical mansion offering stunning views of Portland and showcasing the city's early history.
  • Historic Preservation: Serves as a valuable example of early 20th-century architecture
  • Panoramic Views: Provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers exhibits that showcase the life and times of the Pittock family

14. The Portland Saturday Market

A bustling open-air market offering a diverse range of local artisans, food vendors, and live music.
  • Local Artisans: Provides an opportunity to purchase unique, handmade items from local artists
  • Cultural Exchange: Encourages cross-cultural understanding and exchange through its diverse vendors
  • Community Gathering: Serves as a gathering place for Portland's vibrant community to connect and enjoy local culture

15. The St. Johns Bridge

A scenic suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the city and its surrounding landscape.
  • Iconic Landmark: Serves as a symbol of Portland's industrial past and engineering prowess
  • Photography Opportunities: Provides a picturesque backdrop for capturing memories of the city
  • Scenic Bike Routes: Offers beautiful bike routes along the bridge and its surrounding parks