Trying to figure out the best way to spend a rainy day in Portland? Locals are no strangers to having a good time regardless of the weather, here's a roundup of 10 rainy day activities in Portland.
LessSpanning an impressive 16,000 square feet and sitting pretty atop the West Hills, Pittock Mansion is a stunning French-Renaissance mansion that dates back to 1914. Spend a rainy day touring the mansion and admiring the original decor while learning more about the family that called Pittock Mansion home. Fun fact: The original elevator built in 1914 is operational to this day. Local's Tip: This is a great rainy day activity with kids, so bring them along.
Started in 1898 in an effort to preserve the "state's collective memory," the Oregon Historical Society has a well-curated collection of artifacts dating back to the Oregon Trail. This beloved museum has been sharing Oregon's history for more than 118 years. Local's Tip: There's a lot to explore at the museum but the biggest draw is the famous 1845 penny used to decide Portland’s name in a coin toss. You won't want to miss it.
Often referred to as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden opened in 1967. This thoughtfully-curated garden provides a calming respite from the hustle and bustle of city living. While the garden has something beautiful to offer every season of the year, there’s something peaceful about visiting during a rainy day when the crowds are fewer and the fragrance of rain fills the air. Local's Tip: Visit the Umami Cafe if you need a little pick-me-up.
Located in the popular Boise neighborhood, Mississippi Studios is a recording studio and music venue best known for hosting incredible performances year round. The venue exudes an easy-going vibe with its heated outdoor patio and great food & drinks. Catching a live performance at Mississippi Studios is a great way to spend a rainy day in Portland, and makes for a memorable date idea too.
The Oregon Museum of Science & Industry (OMSI) is a Portland rainy day staple. Most lifelong locals have memories of spending drizzly weekends at OMSI or visiting during school field trips. It's a great place to get your fill of fascinating science exhibits, especially on a rainy day. Local's Tip: OMSI After Dark is a 21+ event that takes place the last Wednesday of the month. Mingle with local vendors, scientists and artisans that host interesting workshops for adults.
Located in the eclectic Hawthorne District, the Bagdad Theater & Pub dates back to 1927. The theater was purchased by the McMenamin brothers and underwent a major renovation in 2013. Upgraded sound system, larger screen, more comfortable seats and an updated digital projector solidified that this beloved Portland institution isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Check the schedule of upcoming films, grab some popcorn and spend a cozy day at the movies next time you see rain in the forecast.
This Grammy-nominated symphony ranks as one of the best orchestras in America. Currently led by Music Director David Danzmayr, the Oregon Symphony hosts more than 100 concerts per year and sees more than 235,000 visitors annually. An evening serenaded by award-winning classical music while the rain patters outside, this is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in Portland in on a rainy day.
There aren't many indoor rainy day activities in Portland that don't revolve around beer, so you have to take advantage when you can. Enter: The Portland Rock Gym. This is a great activity for those hoping to stick to their New Years Resolutions past January 8th. If it's your first time trying rock climbing, sign up for the Intro to Climbing class or buy a day pass and learn the ropes under guided supervision by opting for the First Ascent experience instead.
The Kennedy School is a beloved Portland staple. This once-abandoned school has been converted into all sorts of fun. The boiler room is now a restaurant, the gym is a movie theater playing popular re-runs and the detention room is a bar. This is a great rainy day activity for those that always thought school should be more fun. The Kennedy School is great for dates or catching up with friends. Grab a brew and plan to linger a while, there's a lot to discover.
Creo Chocolate is an award-winning mom-and-pop shop in Portland's Lloyd District. You know the drill: hot chocolate and rainy days go hand in hand. So if you're searching for the best hot chocolate in Portland, make a beeline for Creo Chocolate for a rich and velvety cup of quality hot chocolate you won't soon forget.