Portland is a city that blends natural beauty with quirky charm, making it a must-visit for curious travellers. Nestled between Oregon‘s rivers and forests, it offers easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountain views—all within reach of a vibrant urban scene. Expect artisan coffee, food trucks galore, indie shops, and a creative spirit that pulses through every neighbourhood. Whether you’re into craft beer, bookstores, or the great outdoors, Portland delivers something unexpected around every corner.
Stroll through Portland’s walkable neighbourhoods, packed with indie boutiques, food trucks, and quirky coffee shops that showcase the city’s creative spirit
Explore Washington Park, home to the Portland Japanese Garden, Oregon Zoo, and miles of scenic forested trails
Wander the endless shelves at Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore and a paradise for readers
Sample craft brews at local breweries or sip regional wines—Portland’s bar scene is as eclectic and inventive as the city itself
Take a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge, just outside the city, for waterfalls, windsurfing, and dramatic Pacific Northwest landscapes
Enjoy seasonal festivals and local markets year-round, from the famous Saturday Market to summer concerts and autumn harvest events
Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.
8℃
10℃
13℃
16℃
20℃
23℃
27℃
27℃
24℃
17℃
11℃
8℃
14
13
14
12
9
5
2
2
5
9
15
15
Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.
Rainfall
When to Visit
Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.
January
The new year begins with misty mornings and moody skies. Rain is frequent, and the surrounding forests glisten in the damp. It’s a great month for coffee shop hopping, Powell’s City of Books browsing, and hiking through the mossy trails of Forest Park. Temperatures usually hover between 2-8°C, and snowfall in the city is rare but possible.
February
Still cool and wet, February is Portland’s off-season - but that brings quiet streets and cosy evenings. The city’s craft beer and indie food scenes offer plenty of comfort. It’s also a great time to visit art galleries or soak in the Kennedy School’s steamy outdoor soaking pool. Expect daytime highs around 10°C, with the occasional dry stretch.
March
Signs of spring emerge. Crocuses and cherry blossoms begin blooming in neighbourhood parks and around the waterfront, while hiking trails in the Columbia River Gorge start to reopen after winter rains. Rain remains a constant companion, but so do lengthening days and the first outdoor weekend markets of the year. Temperatures rise to 12-14°C by month’s end.
April
Spring truly arrives in Portland. Rhododendrons, tulips, and magnolias burst into colour, especially in places like the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden or Washington Park. Locals begin dining outside again, weather permitting. Showers are frequent, but sunshine breaks are bright and welcome. Highs reach around 16°C, and the air smells fresh and green.
May
Portland in bloom is something special. The Rose Test Garden comes to life, farmers’ markets are overflowing with early produce, and longer, warmer days bring cyclists, hikers, and riverfront strollers outdoors. The city starts to hum again with street fairs and pop-up events. Expect daytime temperatures around 18-20°C, with less rain than earlier in spring.
June
Early summer is idyllic. The Portland Rose Festival takes over the city with parades, dragon boat races, and carnival rides along the Willamette River. Outdoor concerts, beer gardens, and rooftop bars begin drawing crowds. With highs averaging around 23°C, June often offers a balance of warmth and the last of the spring greenery.
July
One of the driest and sunniest months. Clear skies and warm days make it ideal for hiking near Mount Hood, paddleboarding on the Willamette, or attending festivals like the Waterfront Blues Festival. Temperatures often sit between 26-30°C, though occasional heatwaves can push higher. Evenings remain cool and comfortable, perfect for open-air dining.
August
Still warm and reliably dry, August invites locals and visitors to explore Portland’s gardens, patios, and nearby wine country. The city’s street food scene, microbreweries, and pop-up events shine during this month, and day trips to the coast or waterfalls offer natural relief from the heat. It’s peak summer, with highs in the upper 20s°C.
September
A golden month. The weather stays mild, with highs around 23°C, and the light takes on a warm, amber tone. The crowds thin, making it a great time to visit urban wineries, bike across the city’s bridges, or explore neighbourhoods like Alberta Arts and Sellwood. The changing leaves hint at autumn ahead, especially in the surrounding countryside.
October
Autumn colour takes over. Japanese maples glow red in the city’s parks, and the air grows crisp. Pumpkin patches and cider tastings are popular, and the city’s cosy cafés feel especially inviting again. Light rain returns, but often in short spells, and temperatures typically sit between 14-17°C. It’s a romantic, peaceful time to visit.
November
The rainy season returns in earnest, bringing quiet streets, foggy mornings, and indoor retreats. Museums, bookstores, and live music venues become staples once more. Forest trails are wet but atmospheric - perfect for photographers and solitude seekers. Temperatures hover between 7-11°C, and the first hints of winter begin to creep in.
December
Portland sparkles with festive lights and seasonal markets. Snow is rare in the city, but the Cascade Mountains nearby offer skiing and snowy escapes. Downtown’s holiday scene, complete with warm cider stalls and light displays, feels intimate and unhurried. Expect cool, damp days with highs around 6-8°C and short, quiet evenings ideal for fireside relaxation.
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