How to Plan a Summer Vacation in Portland, Oregon

If you plan a summer vacation in Portland, Oregon, you will find yourself in a lush, green wonderland. From outdoor activities to museums, Portland offers many things to do. Its mild climate provides a respite from the summer heat, and its beautiful views bring relief from the daily grind.

Instructions

Plan Your Trip to Portland

1. Determine how you will arrive in Portland. Plane fares range from $180 to $300 round trip. Purchase early to get the best fares. Alternatively, arrive via Greyhound bus or Amtrak train. Driving to Oregon may also be feasible and economical if you live in the West, and you will have your car when you are in the city.

2. Arrange for the care of your home while you are gone. Determine who will care for your pets and plants. Make arrangements for the post office to hold your mail or a neighbor to pick it up while you travel. Give someone your emergency numbers should a problem arise in your absence.

3. Pack according to your planned activities and the weather. Portland's average summer temperatures range from the mid-60s in May to the 80s in August. Average lows range from the mid-40s to mid-50s. Plan for mild temperatures and comfort while walking. Most activities in Portland don't require formal wear, so you may not want to waste suitcase space with it.

4. Plan to stay near many of the activities you'd like to do while visiting Portland. Hotels all over the city range from $75 rooms to $180 luxury rooms. Reserve your room early and keep receipts handy.

5. Determine how you will get around in the city. Portland's bus system has low fares and links to the Portland Streetcar. The city's MAX (Metropolitan Area Express) offers service from the airport to all over town. Walking is one of the best ways to get around Portland, with its short blocks and attractions near each other.

Choose Your Activities

1. Choose from an array of activities in Portland, such as the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, the Oregon Maritime Center and Museum and the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame. Visit the many shopping and historical districts.

2. Investigate tours in Portland. Choose from a wide variety that includes the Portland Duck tour (a land and water tour bus), the Portland Haunted Tour and a microbrewery tour that includes a designated driver! You can also take a walking tour throughout the city.

3. Venture outdoors to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Portland. Rent kayaks or schedule a rafting tour with the Portland River Company. Take a side trip to Oregon's Mount Hood, which is an hour from downtown Portland and boasts a 345-day ski season.

Tips & Warnings

• While the Pacific Northwest is known for lots of rain, the summer months aren't nearly as wet as the winter and spring. Average rainfall ranges from about 2.06 inches in May to as little as 0.63 of an inch in July. Still, you may want to carry an umbrella.

• Bring cash for certain expenses, such as tips and fares, but use a credit or debit card or traveler's checks for your purchases to protect yourself.