Portland Living on the Cheap

Your local guide to the best of what's affordable in Portland, Oregon.

Victoria

Love Live Entertainment? Visit Portland’s Dueling Piano Bar

Are you ready for an unforgettable night filled with music, laughter and interactive excitement? Look no further than the sensational Portland dueling piano bar. This weekly event promises a unique experiences for live entertainment enthusiasts. With top-tier performers flown in from across the … [Read more...] about Love Live Entertainment? Visit Portland’s Dueling Piano Bar

North Portland Free Clothing Exchange

Update your wardrobe at this free community clothing exchange. The North Portland Free Clothing Exchange was started by a group of friends who were looking for a way to pass along gently used clothing, especially for their kids who outgrew clothes quickly. The clothing exchange is built on the … [Read more...] about North Portland Free Clothing Exchange

Stars Antiques Malls Weekend Sale

Head to Sellwood and find something new to you at Stars Antiques Malls weekend sale.  Opened in 1990, Stars Antiques Mall is owned by three friends who turned a passion for collecting and decorating into a business. The mall has two locations right across the street from each other on … [Read more...] about Stars Antiques Malls Weekend Sale

5 Portland Fabric and Craft Stores You Need to Visit

Calling all Portland crafters!  From yarn bombing the woodland creatures at Pioneer Courthouse Square to hundreds of buildings adorned with larger-than-life murals, there is no doubt that Portland is a city bustling with creators. For all of us who can appreciate our city's artistic … [Read more...] about 5 Portland Fabric and Craft Stores You Need to Visit

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Hobbies · Shopping

How to Raise Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a significant role in your financial life, especially when it comes to loan approvals and better interest rates. But how do you raise your credit score? I recently researched ways to improve my credit score and have a few tips to share with you. Improving your credit score … [Read more...] about How to Raise Your Credit Score

Discount Days at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Visit the Lloyd Center Ice Rink on discount days to get the best deal on your ice skating adventure. Despite the mass exodus of stores from the Lloyd Center Mall, the heart of the shopping center is still thriving. Located in the center of the mall, the Lloyd Center Ice Rink is open seven days a … [Read more...] about Discount Days at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Why Are There So Many Crows in Portland?

Have you noticed large gatherings of crows in downtown Portland recently? So have I. My curiosity lead me on a quest to figure out why there are so many crows flocking together in Portland during the winter. The crows in my neighborhood provide year-round entertainment on my daily walks. From 4-5 … [Read more...] about Why Are There So Many Crows in Portland?

Top 5 Multnomah County Library Card Perks You Need to Know About

The the library is one of the last remaining places where you can access resources and services at no cost. From classes to skills training to e-catalogues, libraries have become a resource hub for communities across the Portland area. The best part is all of these services are completely free to … [Read more...] about Top 5 Multnomah County Library Card Perks You Need to Know About

Free and Cheap Events this Week in Portland

Never Miss Out on Frugal Fun in Portland There are so many ways you can participate in fun activities in Portland without breaking your budget. Use this list of free and cheap events this week as your guide to having frugal fun throughout the metro area.  To stay up to date on all the … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Events this Week in Portland

Share the Love: Glass Hearts Hidden at Tualatin Parks

In February, the Tualatin Parks and Recreation Department is spreading joy and warmth through its special program, Share the Love. This delightful initiative encourages park visitors to embark on a heartwarming adventure as they search for intricately hand-blown glass hearts scattered throughout … [Read more...] about Share the Love: Glass Hearts Hidden at Tualatin Parks

National Bagel Day Deal at Einstein Bros. Bagels

Celebrate National Bagel Day at Einstein Bros Bagels! On January 15. the bagel chain is serving a special deal for the holiday. Beginning January 15, Einstein Bros. Bagels Rewards members get a free egg sandwich with purchase when ordering ahead in the app or online. To get this deal, sign up for … [Read more...] about National Bagel Day Deal at Einstein Bros. Bagels

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

8 Places to See a Movie for $7 or Less

Ready to save on a trip to the movies? Some of Portland's best movie theaters offer cheap tickets.  Portland has an abundance of movie options and most with a great selection of food and drinks. First- and second-run movies play at these cheaper theaters. You can see independent, foreign, … [Read more...] about 8 Places to See a Movie for $7 or Less

The Best Days to Visit Topgolf for Discount Play

Topgolf is on par with Portland's most entertaining attractions. Here are the days you should visit to save big on game play. Whether you're an experienced golfer working on your game or a newbie looking to have fun with friends, Topgolf offers a casual, fun environment for all to enjoy. The … [Read more...] about The Best Days to Visit Topgolf for Discount Play

Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks

  Find a great urban park in your neighborhood Finding a place where you can escape the city may be easier than you think. Many of us leave Portland to enjoy nature and find it isn't quite what we expected. I am sure many of you have experienced the dread of driving an hour to a hiking … [Read more...] about Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks

2025 Portland Dumpling Week: Explore Specials at 35+ Local Restaurants

There is something so fulfilling about savory bite-sized dumplings. These little dough pockets stuffed with vegetables, meat or seafood are a warm welcome during our grey, cold winter. The annual Portland Dumpling Week is celebrating dumplings for its 11th year with specials throughout the … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Dumpling Week: Explore Specials at 35+ Local Restaurants

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall

Portland's Sanctuary of Sound's free lunchtime concerts return in 2024. Built in 1882, The Old Church in downtown Portland is on the National Register of Historic Places. The concert venue hosts events meant to enhance the cultural life of the community and celebrate the building’s historic … [Read more...] about Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall

2025 MLK Day Events in Portland

Honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. at one of these activities in and around Portland. On Monday, January 20, 2025, celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. by giving back to your community, getting out into nature or connecting with community leaders and activists. All … [Read more...] about 2025 MLK Day Events in Portland

Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden

Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden.  Nestled in Washington Park, Portland Japanese Garden has been a place of serenity and tranquility for more than 50 years. Explore the eight unique garden spaces, from lush greens to ponds to sand and stone. Each garden highlights … [Read more...] about Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden

2025 Federal and State Holidays: What’s Open and Closed

Making plans on a federal or state holiday? Here's your guide to what's open and closed on these holidays in 2025. I've gathered a list of federal and state holidays along with offices and services that are usually closed and open on these dates. 2025 Federal and State Holidays 2025 Federal … [Read more...] about 2025 Federal and State Holidays: What’s Open and Closed

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Always Free · Shopping

Ride the Free Shuttle at Washington Park

Washington Park is the keeper of Portland's best attractions. The International Rose Test Garden, Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, and more dazzling sights are all housed within the 410-acre property. The best way to access the attractions at Washington Park is on the free shuttle. The Washington Park … [Read more...] about Ride the Free Shuttle at Washington Park

2025 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks

Get out and enjoy Portland metro parks during free parking days. In 2025, there are 19 free parking days at Portland metro parks, a beach and boat ramps that typically charge a $5 parking fee per car. All of these locations get you up close to our unique waterways, including the Columbia and … [Read more...] about 2025 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Nature

Kids Eat Free (and Cheap) in Portland

There are so many incredible restaurants in our area, but finding a place the whole family will enjoy—including little appetites—can feel impossible. Yet have no fear. I've done the searching for you and compiled a list of places where kids eat free in Portland. Kids eat free and cheap in … [Read more...] about Kids Eat Free (and Cheap) in Portland

Free and Cheap Portland Comedy Nights

Our city is a great place for artistic expression. What you may not know about is the comedy scene, which offers lots of opportunities for amateurs and experienced comedians to test their sets in front of a live audience. If you're a lover of comedy and want to see the talent right here in your … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Portland Comedy Nights

When Are the King Tides on the Oregon Coast? View the Schedule

See the Oregon Coast like never before. This fall and winter, watch the beauty and power of the ocean as it reaches new heights during king tides season.  When the moon's orbit comes closest to the earth, the tide rises. The highest tides hit the coast during the late fall and winter, known … [Read more...] about When Are the King Tides on the Oregon Coast? View the Schedule

Pay What You Will at Portland Center Stage

Want to see shows at Portland Center Stage for cheap? Pay as little as a dollar and some change during Pay What You Will ticket specials.  Portland Center Stage is the largest theater company in Portland. This theater, located in a historic armory, hosts incredible shows throughout the … [Read more...] about Pay What You Will at Portland Center Stage

Free Craft Nights at collage

collage, a beloved independently-owned and family-operated art and craft store, hosts free craft nights for the creative souls of Portland! collage is a one of the local fabric and craft stores you need to visit. As a business deeply rooted in Portland, collage embraces the city's eclectic … [Read more...] about Free Craft Nights at collage

McMenamins History Pubs: Uncover Oregon’s People and Places

McMenamins History Pub invites you to explore Oregon and Pacific Northwest history. Enjoy an evening with local experts, scholars, first-person experiencers and historians who dive into topics from Lewis and Clark to shipwrecks, hop growing to women pioneers and beyond. McMenamins History … [Read more...] about McMenamins History Pubs: Uncover Oregon’s People and Places

Mike Bennett’s Wonderwood Mini Golf Course

Mark your calendars! Mike Bennett's latest interactive creation is underway. The imaginative fantasy realm of Wonderwood is transforming into an interactive adventure for all ages. Wonderwood Mini Golf invites you on an exciting quest filled with magical wonders.  From street signs and … [Read more...] about Mike Bennett’s Wonderwood Mini Golf Course

Where to Buy and Sell Used Outdoor Gear and Sporting Goods in Portland

Ready to upgrade your gear or embark on a new adventure this year? Before you buy new, swing by one of these Portland stores and save on used outdoor gear and sporting goods. You might be able to save even more by selling or consigning your old gear while you're there.  There are so many … [Read more...] about Where to Buy and Sell Used Outdoor Gear and Sporting Goods in Portland

Stream Apple TV+ for Free This Weekend

Interested in adding a new streaming service in 2025? Apple TV+ is giving you a chance to try its platform for free this weekend. It can be difficult to choose a new streaming service that will be worth the additional monthly cost. If you’re unfamiliar with Apple TV+ or are interested in some of … [Read more...] about Stream Apple TV+ for Free This Weekend

Great Clips Celebrates College Football Playoff With $9.99 Haircuts

This deal is a cut above the rest. Give yourself a fresh look for the new year during this haircut discount at Great Clips.  The popular salon is offering a rare opportunity to save money on your next haircut.  Here's how you can take advantage of a rare deal at Great Clips: Great … [Read more...] about Great Clips Celebrates College Football Playoff With $9.99 Haircuts

2025 Portland Boat Show

The Portland Boat Show is making waves this January. Attend one of North America’s most renowned boat shows and the first major boating event of the year. For over six decades, this iconic show has brought together boat enthusiasts, dealers and manufacturers to celebrate the diverse boating … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Boat Show

Silent Book Club Events in and around Portland

Silent Book Club is a book club movement that celebrates the joy of reading and fosters a community of book lovers who relish the tranquil embrace of a good book. Imagine a gathering where book enthusiasts come together to revel in the shared companionship of a silent reading experience. Let's … [Read more...] about Silent Book Club Events in and around Portland

Free Play at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Calling all retro gamers! Ground Kontrol is Portland's classic arcade destination, plugged in to all your golden age classics to new favorites. More than 100 classic video games and pinball machines surround two full service bars serving tasty and cheap food and drinks. Featuring low prices and … [Read more...] about Free Play at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Great Train Show at Clark County Event Center

Immerse yourself in the world of miniature railroading at the Great Train Show. The train show is designed for people of all ages, train enthusiasts and families in need of some old-fashioned fun. Here are the details about the upcoming event. Great Train Show at Clark County Event Center On … [Read more...] about Great Train Show at Clark County Event Center

2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Get free entrance to Forest Service recreation areas on five holidays in 2025. Forest Service recreation area free days include recreation sites and trailheads in Oregon and Washington, such as the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood National Forest, Gifford Pinchot National Forest and 14 more. These … [Read more...] about 2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Glow Skate Nights at Oaks Park Roller Rink

Get out of the house and enjoy a fun evening activity at Oaks Park Roller Rink's Glow Skate Nights. Oaks Amusement Park in Portland has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. The roller rink is the park's year-round attraction and one of Portland’s last remaining roller … [Read more...] about Glow Skate Nights at Oaks Park Roller Rink

Portland Repair Fairs: Get Your Stuff Fixed for Free

Portland Repair Fair is here to fix your stuff for free. Portland Repair Fairs are free events that bring together people with various skillsets to help fix items and, most importantly, pass on knowledge to empower you to be more handy around your home. You'll be paired with a volunteer who will … [Read more...] about Portland Repair Fairs: Get Your Stuff Fixed for Free

Tour Portland’s Historic Lone Fir Cemetery

Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience to retrace Portland's history in an arboretum? Take a tour of Portland's historic Lone Fir Cemetery. Located in Southeast Portland, Lone Fir Cemetery is one of Portland’s oldest continuously used cemeteries. The 30 acres is the final resting place of many … [Read more...] about Tour Portland’s Historic Lone Fir Cemetery

The 9th Annual NW Black Comedy Festival

Black comics from all over the country are coming to Portland for four days of laughter, joy and the celebration of humor. The 9th annual NW Black Comedy Festival features more than 60 Black comics performing 10 showcases during one weekend. This year’s festival will be taking place at Curious … [Read more...] about The 9th Annual NW Black Comedy Festival

Portland Haunted Tunnels: Explore the Old Portland Underground

Explore Portland's infamous history cloaked in myth, superstition and fear. The Portland haunted tunnels lead to an old underground network that has mystified historians and locals alike.  The Old Portland Underground, also known as the Shanghai Tunnels, have long held tall tales of … [Read more...] about Portland Haunted Tunnels: Explore the Old Portland Underground

Member of the Living on the Cheap Network

lotc_logo_100_gray_bgPortland Living on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at Living on the Cheap.
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