Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Victoria

Only 20 Discount Tickets Available to The Tesla City Stories

Sponsored post The Tesla City Stories Live Vintage Radio Theater hosts all new episodes September 12, 2025! Join us Friday, September 12, at the Old Church Concert Hall for the final show of The Tesla City Stories’ ninth season! It’ll be a feast of entertainment with all the fixins. Get $12 … [Read more...] about Only 20 Discount Tickets Available to The Tesla City Stories

Build a Free LEGO Harry Potter Butterbeer Truck

Looking for a fun and creative way to celebrate Sunday? Build your very own LEGO Harry Potter Butterbeer Truck. While you're at it, get LEGO magazine for free.  Here are the details:  Build a Free Harry Potter Butterbeer Truck This special make-and-take event is the perfect way for … [Read more...] about Build a Free LEGO Harry Potter Butterbeer Truck

POP Cats Portland: The Ultimate Immersive Experience for Cat Lovers

Calling all cat enthusiasts! Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at POP Cats Portland. POP Cats is a special celebration of our feline friends along with creativity and entertainment.  Here's how you can participate in this upcoming event.  2025 POP Cats Portland POP Cats … [Read more...] about POP Cats Portland: The Ultimate Immersive Experience for Cat Lovers

Hidden Benefits of a AAA Membership You Might Not Know About

Did you know that a AAA membership goes beyond roadside assistance? The membership program offers drivers across the nation a helping hand when life happens on the road. Knowing you can call for help with a flat tire, dead battery or tow is peace of mind in your pocket. Yet, AAA offers so much more … [Read more...] about Hidden Benefits of a AAA Membership You Might Not Know About

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Shopping · Travel

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are taking place throughout 2025.  Located in the heart of downtown, Portland Art Museum is internationally renowned for exciting art experiences. On the first Thursday of the month, our community gets open access to one of our city's top … [Read more...] about Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

First Thursday Street Gallery

Explore local artists at the First Thursday Street Gallery in the Pearl District. The event is hosted by Urban Art Network, a Portland nonprofit dedicated to empowering independent artists. Now in its 24th year, the event holds true to its artistic roots by bringing together our community of … [Read more...] about First Thursday Street Gallery

Portland Neighborhood Garage Sales

Portland garage sale season is June-October. Mark your calendar for these Portland neighborhood garage sales. Since many people have transitioned to working from home for a few days a week or permanently, they've had to make room for workspaces. This means items once thought of as essential have … [Read more...] about Portland Neighborhood Garage Sales

Troutdale First Friday Art Walk

Explore Troutdale's art community during the First Friday Art Walk. On the first Friday of the month in the summer, the streets will be filled with vendors, sidewalk dining, live music, family-friendly activities and more. The fun continues during the fall months with activities moving … [Read more...] about Troutdale First Friday Art Walk

Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall

Portland's Sanctuary of Sound's free lunchtime concerts invite Portlanders to an afternoon of music.  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 … [Read more...] about Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall

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

Discount Day at OMSI

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, better known as OMSI, is one of the nation's leading science centers and we're lucky to have it right here in Portland. OMSI discount day is here to bring one of Portland's best attractions to you for cheap. Science lovers and explorers of the unknown … [Read more...] about Discount Day at OMSI

2025 Bethany Village Oktoberfest

Get ready to don your lederhosen and raise your steins. Bethany Village Oktoberfest is just around the corner. This September, Bethany Village Centre transforms into a lively celebration of German culture, complete with all the festive flair you’d expect from a traditional Oktoberfest. If … [Read more...] about 2025 Bethany Village Oktoberfest

Multicultural Kids Festival

Explore new cultures in a fun, creative setting at the Multicultural Kids Festival.  The event is hosted by the Slavic Community Center of NW, Inc. The local nonprofit helps its community members succeed in America through various programs and services. The organization hosts this annual … [Read more...] about Multicultural Kids Festival

2025 Bella Organic Fall Activities: Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, Hayrides and more

As the crisp air of fall settles in, there's no better way to celebrate the season than by immersing yourself in the bounty of the harvest and the thrill of autumn activities. Head to Bella Organic for special fall activities. The farm on Sauvie Island is a great destination for families, friends … [Read more...] about 2025 Bella Organic Fall Activities: Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, Hayrides and more

Come Thru Black and Indigenous Market

At Come Thru Market, you can shop a variety of goods from local Black and Indigenous farmers and makers. The market supports BIPOC growers who are taking their small business dreams to the farmers market environment. The market also offers a farmer training program, which supports beginning … [Read more...] about Come Thru Black and Indigenous Market

2025 Oktoberfests in and around Portland

From September to October, crowds pack beer halls and streets to celebrate Oktoberfest in Germany. Thankfully, you don't have to go on an international trip to partake in this Bavarian tradition. Portland Oktoberfests are plentiful and offer a variety of activities for all ages. At Oktoberfests … [Read more...] about 2025 Oktoberfests in and around Portland

Watch Movies in a Pumpkin Patch at Yesteryear Farms

Enjoy family-friendly, free movie nights on the farm! Yesteryear Farms welcomes visitors to the pumpkin patch for special fall-themed events. The farm is known for its adorable farm market, fall activities and a pumpkin patch as well as Christmas trees. From September-October, the farm invites … [Read more...] about Watch Movies in a Pumpkin Patch at Yesteryear Farms

2025 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission

Bank of America's Museums On Us program lets customers visit Portland museums for free the first full weekend of the month. More than 225 museums and attractions participate in the Bank of America free museum days in cities across the United States. In Portland, we're lucky enough to have three … [Read more...] about 2025 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission

Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees

Looking for a fun, outdoor activity like no other? Let me tell you why a self-guided tour of Portland's monkey puzzle trees should be your next adventure. Monkey puzzle trees, Araucaria araucana, are one of the most unique looking species in our city. I remember the first time I noticed one I … [Read more...] about Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees

Portland Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes and Hayrides

Find the perfect pumpkin at a farm near you. Buying a pumpkin at the grocery store does not come close to picking the perfect pumpkin right from the field. Just outside our great city are many you-pick farms celebrating the fall harvest with corn mazes, hay rides and many varieties of pumpkins, … [Read more...] about Portland Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes and Hayrides

Stars Antiques Malls Labor Day Weekend Sale

Head to Westmoreland 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 Labor Day Weekend Sale

Free Game Fridays at The People’s Courts

Looking for something fun and free to do on a Friday night? Look no further than Free Game Fridays at The People's Courts. This multi-court recreational and social space in Portland offers an evening filled with friendly competition, great food and good vibes. Here's what to expect: Free Game … [Read more...] about Free Game Fridays at The People’s Courts

Portland Gear Warehouse Sale

Portland Gear is hosting a Warehouse Sale with special deals on a variety of items.  It all started with the @portland Instagram page and has grown into an apparel brand that lets you show off your Portland pride everywhere you go. Since 2014, Portland Gear has made one-of-a-kind apparel … [Read more...] about Portland Gear Warehouse Sale

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Sale · Shopping

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Weekend Train Ride

Take a scenic trip through Clark County on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad this weekend. A 1941 diesel locomotive transports passengers through scenic northern Clark County from Yacolt to Moulton Falls to Chelatchie Prairie and back. During holidays, the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad hosts special … [Read more...] about Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Weekend Train Ride

Flock Fridays Pop Up Market

This summer, Flock Fridays Pop Up Market is bringing the energy, creativity and culture to downtown every month at Flock Food Hall. Flock is a downtown food hall and event space serving up flavors from across the globe. Get a bite to eat and support small businesses at this monthly … [Read more...] about Flock Fridays Pop Up Market

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

Baskin-Robbins: Get a Cheap Ice Cream Scoop on the 31st

Baskin-Robbins' Celebrate 31 promotion has returned! Get a cheap scoop on the 31st of the month. Why 31? The founders of Baskin-Robbins, Burt and Irv, launched the ice cream shop with 31 flavors. This let visitors have a new flavor to try every day of the month. Here's how you can get a … [Read more...] about Baskin-Robbins: Get a Cheap Ice Cream Scoop on the 31st

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

2025 Art in the Pearl

More than 100 artists are taking over the Pearl District on Labor Day weekend to showcase their craft and skills. If you love art in all its forms, you won't want to miss Art in the Pearl. The annual event was started in 1997 by fifteen artists who wanted to showcase high-quality, handmade works … [Read more...] about 2025 Art in the Pearl

Hidden Benefits of a Costco Membership You Might Not Know About

When people think of Costco, they often picture giant carts overflowing with bulk groceries, free samples and the occasional impulse purchase of a kayak or giant teddy bear. Yet, beyond the obvious perks, a Costco membership comes with a variety of hidden benefits that can save you money and … [Read more...] about Hidden Benefits of a Costco Membership You Might Not Know About

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Shopping · Travel

Free Summer Movies in the Parks

The Portland metro has an abundance of summertime movies in local parks. Find a complete list of Portland's movies in the parks along with Hillsboro, Beaverton, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, North Clackamas, Oregon City, Gladstone, West Linn, Troutdale and Vancouver movie series. Best of all, … [Read more...] about Free Summer Movies in the Parks

Haunted History Walking Tours in Vancouver

Are you intrigued by the ghostly tales that whisper through the buildings and streets of Downtown Vancouver? Do you have a fascination with the strange and peculiar aspects of local history? If so, you’re in for a treat this fall. The Clark County Historical Museum invites you to explore the darker … [Read more...] about Haunted History Walking Tours in Vancouver

Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

Calling all vintage, handmade, food loving Portlanders! Explore one-of-a-kind goods at Portland Flea. For over a decade, Portland Flea has created a gathering place for our city's creators to showcase their talents. Get out and join your community of makers, food purveyors and curators at this … [Read more...] about Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

2025 Bella Organic Haunted Corn Maze

Head to the farm after dark for a special haunt, the Bella Organic Haunted Corn Maze. Bella Organic Farm is a 100-acre certified organic farm and winery on Sauvie Island that is open year round. They grow more than 70 varieties of berries, fruits, vegetables, pumpkins, vineyard grapes and herbs. … [Read more...] about 2025 Bella Organic Haunted Corn Maze

Cooling Centers and Spaces in and around Portland

Need a place to escape the summer heat? Here's a list of cooling centers and spaces in and around Portland. Whenever a heat wave rolls into town, it can feel like a frenzied effort to find a place to cool off during the hottest times of the day. Thankfully, there are free resources throughout the … [Read more...] about Cooling Centers and Spaces in and around Portland

2025 Hawthorne Street Fair

Priding itself as Portland’s original “shop local” district, the Hawthorne Street Fair is one of the oldest and biggest street fairs in Portland. Starting in 1984 with a guitarist and a few local organizations, the event now features 150 community vendors and two stages of local … [Read more...] about 2025 Hawthorne Street Fair

Oregon Ice Cream Trail: A Sweet Adventure Awaits

The Oregon Ice Cream Trail makes your pursuit of a tasty frozen treat easy no matter where you are in the state. Oregon's diverse weather doesn't deter me from enjoying my favorite sweet and creamy treat: ice cream. Whether the sun is shining or rain is falling, there's always a good reason to … [Read more...] about Oregon Ice Cream Trail: A Sweet Adventure Awaits

Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair

Ready to make something old new to you? Travel to Oregon's hometown for the annual outdoor antique market. The Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair is celebrating its 28th year. Spend a day perusing booths and finding treasures at this annual event. Portland is full of great markets. Here are some … [Read more...] about Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair

2025 India Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Celebrate India’s Independence Day with live music, dance, food and other entertainment at Pioneer Courthouse Square. The event is hosted by the India Cultural Association, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing Indian cultural awareness in Portland, Oregon. Every year, ICA hosts the popular India … [Read more...] about 2025 India Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Free National Parks and Public Lands Passes for 4th Graders

Every 4th grader in the United States has the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the nation with their family for free, thanks to the Every Kid Outdoors Program. This program gives 4th grade students and their families free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including … [Read more...] about Free National Parks and Public Lands Passes for 4th Graders

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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