10 Things To Do In Portland Oregon In June: Summer Fun And Festivities

An aerial view of Portland shows snow-covered Mount Hood in the background, Oregon.

Portland, Oregon, is a city that comes alive in June with stunning nature, burgeoning festivals, and a spectacular variety of things to do for everyone. It’s the City of Roses, which offers the best things to do in Portland Oregon in June from the ultimate summertime experience to delicious local food and culture. The weather in June is warm and perfect for hiking, shopping, or visiting any of the different events happening throughout the city. No matter if you are a foodie, an outdoor person, or an art lover, Portland has something for you.

10 Things To Do In Portland Oregon In June

Dive into the beauty of this rose city and explore the top 10 things to do in Portland Oregon in June this summer.

1. Explore The International Rose Test Garden

Visitors enjoy the beauty of the International Rose Test Garden in Portland, Oregon.

Photo: PiccoloNamek / Wikimedia Commons

A day at the International Rose Test Garden is the ultimate Portland experience, particularly in June. The garden has beautiful scenery, with over 10,000 rose bushes. It is an excellent place to take long walks and photos, and there are great views of the city skyline and Mount Hood on a clear day. The garden began operation in 1917, making it one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious rose test gardens. It features roses that have won awards, and you can explore different types of them, so it is also an educational trip and a pleasing sight to see.

Best Time To Visit: Morning hours
Location: Portland, OR 97205

2. Hike In Forest Park

Take a stroll amidst the various colourful flowers bloom at the Forest Park in Portland, Oregon.

Photo: EncMstr / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Forest Park is a recreational paradise and one of the largest urban forests in the US. On its more than 5,000 acres, it boasts over 80 miles of hiking, biking and birding trails. The park is in full bloom in June, so it’s a great time to hike the trails. Favourite trails, such as the Wildwood Trail, offer incredible vistas of the forest and city. If you are interested in a hard hike or just a peaceful walk, Forest Park offers an enchanting alternative to urban hustle and bustle.

Best Time To Visit: Early morning
Location: NW 29th Ave & Upshur St, Portland, OR 97210

3. Attend The Portland Rose Festival

 A glimpse of the Grand Floral Parade - one of the things to do in Portland Oregon in June.

Photo: U. S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps / Wikimedia Commons

The Portland Rose Festival is a celebration of the city’s floral past and is an event you should not miss out on in June. There is a full schedule of events happening throughout the festival, including the Grand Floral Parade, featuring elaborate flower-filled floats. There is also the Waterfront Carnival, Dragon Boat races, and various live shows. The festival has been held in Portland for more than 100 years and draws a crowd of everyone. It is an ideal opportunity to soak up the culture and have many fun activities while getting swept away in the festival spirit.

Best Time To Visit: First two weeks of June
Location: Tom McCall and Waterfront Park

4. Sip Craft Beer At Portland Breweries

A brewing vessel made of copper at one of the breweries in Portland, Oregon, USA.

Photo: Visitor7 / Wikimedia Commons

Portland is known for having the best craft beer in the world (sometimes dubbed “Beervana” for its large number of top-notch breweries). Summer is the best time to try the city’s best brews because a lot of breweries provide special offers in June. It’s possible to do a brewery tour or visit some of the most well-known breweries, such as Deschutes Brewery, Breakside Brewery, and Hopworks Urban Brewery. Each features its own variety of beers, ranging from IPAs to dark stouts and mild sours.

Best Time To Visit: Late afternoon to evening
Location: Pearl District and SE Division

5. Visit The Portland Saturday Market

Visitors buy different things at the shops in Portland Saturday Market, Oregon, USA.

Photo: Visitor7 / Wikimedia Commons

The Saturday Market in Portland is filled with vendors, food stalls and musicians. One of the biggest continuously running outdoor markets in the US, it features an array of handicrafts, ranging from jewellery and pottery to clothing and art. In June, the market is at its best, and the stalls and concerts add excitement to it. It is a great place to buy some souvenirs and try out some tasty street food. Whether you are visiting to buy gifts or for the live music scene, the market delivers an authentic Portland experience.

Best Time To Visit: Late morning to early afternoon
Location: 2 SW Naito Parkway, Portland, OR 97204

6. Kayak And Paddleboard On Willamette River

A wide view of the Willamette River shows a fall and a dam in Portland, Oregon, USA.

Photo: Sarah RK / Wikimedia Commons

Taking part in water sports on the Willamette River is a fantastic way to see Portland from another angle. Kayaking and paddling are popular activities here, especially during the summer months in June, when the river is still warm. A few rental shops provide equipment and tour services for tourists and visitors. It is possible to float down through the city centre, enjoying the view of the skyline, the bridges, and nature. It is an adrenaline-packed yet relaxing way to spend your time in Portland with your loved ones.

Best Time To Visit: Visit around noon
Location: Portland Kayak Company and Alder Creek Kayak

7. Experience The Portland Japanese Garden

A fairytale view at the Japanese Garden - one of the things to do in Portland, Oregon in June.

Photo: Adonelson / Wikimedia Commons

The Portland Japanese Garden is often said to be the most authentic Japanese garden in the world. It is spread over 12 acres and offers a serene atmosphere with its koi ponds, bonsai trees and old-fashioned tea house. June is lovely to visit with the garden’s lush foliage and blooming azaleas. It is a good spot for a contemplative walk and where you can unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can also click some beautiful photos with spectacular backdrops.

Best Time To Visit: Visit in the early morning
Location: Portland, OR 97205

8. Bike The Springwater Corridor Trail

A view of the Springwater Corridor Trail, one of the things to do in Portland, Oregon in June.

Photo: Steve Morgan / Wikimedia Commons

There is no better way to discover Portland’s natural world than by bicycle, and the Springwater Corridor Trail provides a great alternative. This 40-mile multi-use trail leads along the Willamette River and through the beautiful greenery of the city. During June, the trail is lush with wildflowers and trees and will make a lovely backdrop for your bike ride. The trail is a perfect example of efficient urban planning and is popular among locals. This is a lovely ride, and the trail has beautiful scenery and places to have a picnic or take pictures.

Best Time To Visit: Visit in the early morning
Location: Portland, Oregon

9. Discover Powell’s City Of Books

 A corner view of Powell’s Books - one of the things to do in Portland, Oregon in June.

Photo: Cacophony / Wikimedia Commons

Portland’s Powell’s City of Books is Portland’s flagship independent bookstore and the largest in the world. Having more than a million books spread across its multiple floors, the store is a bookworm’s dream. It is worth the trip in June when they hold summer author events and readings at the store. You could spend hours there looking at new releases, e-books, and local literature. There is a cafe where you can curl up with a book and coffee. It is a must-stop for anyone who loves reading and loves finding unusual literary items.

Best Time To Visit: Visit on weekdays or early mornings
Location: Portland, OR 97209

10. Experience The Portland Art Museum

A corner view shows the Mark Building, one of the things to do in Portland, Oregon in June.

Photo: M.O. Stevens / Wikimedia Commons

One of the Pacific Northwest’s oldest art museums, the Portland Art Museum houses one of the things to see in Portland Oregon in June. There are several galleries in the museum that contain an impressive collection of American, Native American, Asian, and modern art. The museum regularly presents free summer exhibitions in June, showcasing national and international artists. They show classics as well as innovative modern works. The museum’s building itself is an eclectic mix of old and new architecture that complements the whole experience.

Best Time To Visit: Weekdays
Location: Portland, OR 97205

Portland is a place where you will find a perfect balance of nature, and attractions, whether you love hiking in a thick forest, trying local food and beer, or even visiting cultural attractions. From kayaking in the Willamette River to strolling at Japanese Park, you will never be out of things to do in Portland Oregon in June. Plan a trip with TripXL and build lasting memories.

Cover Photo: Spicypepper999 / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, pets are welcome at the Rose Garden as long as they are on a leash. It’s a great spot for dog walking, but be mindful of the flowers and other visitors.
Yes, Portland’s public transit is efficient and user-friendly. The MAX Light Rail, buses, and streetcars can get you to most major attractions easily.
A typical visit lasts 1-2 hours, allowing enough time to explore the different garden sections and enjoy a tea ceremony if available.
It’s recommended, especially in June when demand is high. Booking ahead ensures you get the equipment and time slot you prefer.
Yes, several local tour companies offer guided hikes that provide insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and history.
Powell’s is centrally located and easily accessible via public transit, including the MAX Light Rail and multiple bus lines.

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