Portland Living on the Cheap

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

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Deals on Snacks and Treats at Mike’s Drive In Hot Rod Day

The 37th Annual Hot Rod Day at Mike's Drive In will look a little different this year, but still offers tasty deals for everyone. Instead of the annual cruise in event, Mike's invites car enthusiasts to show off their ride with a quick visit for a bite to eat.  If you have a hot rod or show … [Read more...] about Deals on Snacks and Treats at Mike’s Drive In Hot Rod Day

Get Free Coffee this Summer with Panera Bread’s Coffee Subscription

Start your summer off right with this hot deal from Panera Bread. Panera Bread's coffee subscription gives you unlimited hot coffee, iced coffee and hot tea of any size, any flavor with unlimited refills of the same beverage each day for $8.99 a month. Plus, you can redeem the perk once … [Read more...] about Get Free Coffee this Summer with Panera Bread’s Coffee Subscription

Cocktail Making with McMenamins

I've come across some pretty sweet deals at my favorite wineries and distilleries in the past few months. With a well stocked bar, I've been looking for ways to mix up my cocktail making. Thankfully, McMenamins has launched a new online series for all of us libation lovers. Cocktail making with … [Read more...] about Cocktail Making with McMenamins

Krispy Kreme Celebrates 83rd Birthday With Free Doughnuts

Krispy Kreme is celebrating its 83rd birthday! This exciting milestone is being commemorated in a sweet way. In celebration of its iconic hot, fresh and delicious doughnuts, the donut shop is offering free doughnuts. On July 17, get a free Original Glazed … [Read more...] about Krispy Kreme Celebrates 83rd Birthday With Free Doughnuts

Get KFC Secret Recipe Fries for 30 cents on National French Fry Day

French fries are one of my favorite sides. Especially when they check all the boxes: salty, crispy and served piping hot. Whether they are from a local spot or a national chain, I always love trying new ones. Kentucky Fried Chicken has a new fry in town and is offering a savory deal. The chain’s … [Read more...] about Get KFC Secret Recipe Fries for 30 cents on National French Fry Day

Free Belated Birthday Beers at Rogue Ales

Have you had a birthday during the quarantine? Rogue Ales is here to make your belated birthday special.  If you had a birthday from between March 16 and June 12, the entire Rogue Nation is here to celebrate you. Visit any Rogue Pub and get your free belated birthday beer. Traditionally, … [Read more...] about Free Belated Birthday Beers at Rogue Ales

Outdoor BBQ Party at Zoiglhaus Brewing Company

Zoiglhaus Brewing Company is inviting you to come out and celebrate with BBQ and brews. Every weekend, the Southeast Portland brewery will be transforming its parking lot into a socially-distanced outdoor BBQ party. The outdoor BBQ party has plenty of space to spread out and a family-friendly … [Read more...] about Outdoor BBQ Party at Zoiglhaus Brewing Company

Portland Pickles Broadcasts 2020 Season for Free

There is something nostalgic about spending a summer's night gathered together with fellow fans to cheer on your home town team. This year, our favorite sports teams have had to temporarily pause their seasons and wait until the day they can once again hit the field and play ball.  For … [Read more...] about Portland Pickles Broadcasts 2020 Season for Free

Portland Companies Selling Face Masks

If you're looking to stock up on reusable face masks, don't make the big retailers your one stop shop. Many local Portland companies are selling face masks. Plus, you'll feel good supporting these local brands that have been hit hard during this time.  All of these businesses have options to … [Read more...] about Portland Companies Selling Face Masks

BOGO Free Original Grand Slam at Denny’s

Who else out there loves breakfast for dinner? Denny’s is giving you a great excuse to eat breakfast any time of day with its buy one get one free grand slam deal. Through June 30, get a free Original Grand Slam with the purchase of the same at regular price at participating … [Read more...] about BOGO Free Original Grand Slam at Denny’s

Black Lives Matter Events in Portland

Black Lives Matter events have been taking place all across Portland. From vigils to rallies to marches, there are many ways for Portlanders to get involved. If you'd like to participate in an upcoming event, here is a great calendar of events happening throughout the city.  PDX Black Lives … [Read more...] about Black Lives Matter Events in Portland

Gift Card Giveaway: Portland Chocolate Laboratory

Win a $25 Gift Card to Portland Chocolate Laboratory Portland Living on the Cheap is supporting local businesses through our new subscriber gift card giveaway happening every week in June. For the rest of the month, this weekly giveaway will feature Black-owned eateries in Portland. Every new email … [Read more...] about Gift Card Giveaway: Portland Chocolate Laboratory

OMSI Reopening June 20: What You Need to Know Before You Go

OMSI announced its reopening with new operating policies to meet state guidelines and help keep the community safe. Here's what you need to know before you go. New changes to OMSI's operations includes limiting capacity, and requiring physical distancing and face coverings. Beginning Saturday, … [Read more...] about OMSI Reopening June 20: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Virtual Open Mic with Portland Poetry Slam

Get ready, Portland poets! Portland Poetry Slam is giving you the chance to perform your poetry during its live virtual open mic.  Or if sitting back and taking in someone else's work is more your speed, this event is open to an audience of poetry enthusiasts. The featured performer of … [Read more...] about Virtual Open Mic with Portland Poetry Slam

How to Check Your Free Credit Report Every Year (Now Available Weekly!)

When was the last time you checked your credit report? Each year, you're entitled to a free credit report. Here's more information about what it means and why it is important to take advantage of checking your free credit report. Let's start this off with a quick explanation. Your credit report … [Read more...] about How to Check Your Free Credit Report Every Year (Now Available Weekly!)

Watch ‘Selma’ and ‘Just Mercy’ for Free

Entertainment companies have announced free streaming of two history-making true stories. For the month of June, you can now watch "Just Mercy" and "Selma" for free. Details on how to stream the movies are shared below. Just Mercy Warner Bros. is making its film “Just Mercy” widely available at … [Read more...] about Watch ‘Selma’ and ‘Just Mercy’ for Free

Get Your Free Multnomah County Library Card Online

For the first time ever, you can apply for a Multnomah County Library card to access electronic resources online. This new library card will give you access e-books, audiobooks, magazines and music from home. You can even stream movies and documentaries for free.  Library cards are free … [Read more...] about Get Your Free Multnomah County Library Card Online

Portland-based Company Offers Free Face Mask for Every American

Portland-based clothing company Dhvani is on a mission to supply every American with a free face mask.   Dhvani is known for its ethically- and sustainably-manufactured activewear. During this time, the company has shifted its manufacturing and distribution resources to create much-needed … [Read more...] about Portland-based Company Offers Free Face Mask for Every American

Read J.K. Rowling’s New Book Online for Free

J.K. Rowling is once again making magic for kids of all ages. During these difficult times, the beloved author is giving the world something new to enjoy, a new children’s book. In her own words, “The idea for The Ickabog came to me, while I was still writing Harry Potter. I … [Read more...] about Read J.K. Rowling’s New Book Online for Free

Free Document Shredding at Old Market Pub & Brewery

Has anyone else went on a wild cleaning spree while being stuck at home? With many facilities closed, I have a whole pile of things in my garage, including documents that need shredded.  This weekend, we're all in luck. Old Market Pub & Brewery is hosting a free document shredding event … [Read more...] about Free Document Shredding at Old Market Pub & Brewery

Free Pizza for High School Graduates at Pizza Hut

Who doesn't love a celebratory pizza? Especially when it comes at no cost to you. To help high school graduates celebrate a major milestone in their lives, Pizza Hut is giving them a free medium pizza. In fact, they’re giving away half a million pizzas! Here's how graduates can claim a … [Read more...] about Free Pizza for High School Graduates at Pizza Hut

Portland Parks and Recreation Launches Stay and Play Video Series

Portland Parks and Recreation offers so many fun programs at their community centers and parks throughout the city. Since their facilities and gathering places are temporarily closed, the city department is looking for new ways to engage with our community.  Portland Parks and Recreation has … [Read more...] about Portland Parks and Recreation Launches Stay and Play Video Series

Free Virtual Fitness Classes

If you're feeling cooped up, now is the perfect time to start a new fitness routine from home. These free virtual fitness classes are easily accessible to anyone who wants to get their body moving and have fun. Many of the workouts below are hosted by small businesses. While these events are free … [Read more...] about Free Virtual Fitness Classes

BOGO Free To-Go Entrée at Olive Garden

Olive Garden's special promotion is a great meal deal for an inexpensive takeout dinner. For a limited time, the popular Italian restaurant is giving customers a free entrée to-go. First, enjoy one of the featured dishes with soup or garden fresh salad and breadsticks for $14.99.  For … [Read more...] about BOGO Free To-Go Entrée at Olive Garden

Outdoor Flea Market at Salty Teacup

You never know what treasure is awaiting you at Salty Teacup. This little shop located on the main drag of St Johns is my go-to for unique gifts, cute and functional dresses, and vintage home goods. On Saturday, Salty Teacup will be hosting an outdoor flea market filled with fun finds. As part of … [Read more...] about Outdoor Flea Market at Salty Teacup

Celebrate Hefe Day at Widmer Brothers Brewing

Hefe Day 2021 has been announced! This year's event is taking place on Saturday, May 15. The details below are from 2020. I will update this page as soon as more information is available.  Widmer Brothers Brewing is not offering its $1 pints in 2021. To follow the celebrations on Hefe Day, … [Read more...] about Celebrate Hefe Day at Widmer Brothers Brewing

Celebrate Saturdays With BOGO Dozen Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Doughnuts

What's better than one dozen doughnuts? Two dozen, of course! Krispy Kreme is offering a BOGO special. On Saturdays, Krispy Kreme will give you a free dozen Original Glazed Doughnuts to every order that includes a full price dozen Original Glazed Doughnuts or more. You can order via pickup, drive … [Read more...] about Celebrate Saturdays With BOGO Dozen Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Doughnuts

Lionsgate Movies Hosts Free Friday Movie Night

Need something to look forward to on a Friday night? Curl up on the couch and tune in to Lionsgate Movies free Friday movie night.   On Friday night at 6 p.m., “Lionsgate LIVE: A Night At The Movies!” lets you stream select movies live via Lionsgate's Youtube channel. Join host Jamie … [Read more...] about Lionsgate Movies Hosts Free Friday Movie Night

Reverend Nat’s Will Deliver Flowers and Cider to Your Mom

To help you make this Mother's Day special, Reverend Nat's is pairing its cider with flower bouquets from local florists.  Before we get into the details, I recognize that this deal does not fall under the category of cheap, but I am making an exception to showcase a local small business … [Read more...] about Reverend Nat’s Will Deliver Flowers and Cider to Your Mom

Get Creative with Trail Blazers Color for a Cause

For all the sports fans out here, the NBA season came to an abrupt halt due to stay-at-home orders across the country. Moda Health and the Trail Blazers are teaming up to let you and your family show your Rip City spirit and support our community. Color for a Cause features Trail Blazers coloring … [Read more...] about Get Creative with Trail Blazers Color for a Cause

Get Free Digital Cards from American Greetings

We're all only a click or call away. But sometimes it feels hard to stay connected with friends and family. American Greetings is making it easier to keep our loved ones top of mind with its free digital cards. These digital postcards range from funny to comforting.  You can send the … [Read more...] about Get Free Digital Cards from American Greetings

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s EduHam at Home Virtual School Program

To help keep kids on track, Lin-Manuel Miranda and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History have launched EduHam at Home. This virtual school program allows students to create their own original pieces using history as their inspiration. EduHam at Home is an extension of the Hamilton … [Read more...] about Lin-Manuel Miranda’s EduHam at Home Virtual School Program

Arm & Hammer Gives Away Free Wildflower Seeds

Portland is going wild with beautiful springtime blooms. Bring a little nature to your doorstep with the help of Arm & Hammer's free wildflower seeds. Flowers brighten every situation and we all could use some cheering up right about now. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, Arm … [Read more...] about Arm & Hammer Gives Away Free Wildflower Seeds

Oregon State University is Offering Free Online Gardening Classes

Ready to learn how to make your backyard garden ready for this summer's growing season? Get started with two of Oregon State University's popular online gardening classes.  Through April, Oregon State University is offering their Vegetable Gardening course and Intro to Oregon Master Gardener … [Read more...] about Oregon State University is Offering Free Online Gardening Classes

The North Face Offers 50% Discount For Healthcare Workers

To give back to healthcare workers who are taking care of our communities, many companies have stepped up to give back. The North Face is one of them. The sportswear company is showing their gratitude with a special discount for the rest of the year. Through December 31, 2020, The North Face is … [Read more...] about The North Face Offers 50% Discount For Healthcare Workers

Redbox Offers Free Movies and TV Shows

When it comes to streaming services, it is hard to find ones that offer you totally free, unrestricted access. Redbox is breaking the status quo by giving you free access to movies and TV shows with no subscription or sign-in required.  Redbox just introduced FREE Live TV with dozens of … [Read more...] about Redbox Offers Free Movies and TV Shows

Earth Day Virtual Activities

Earth Day is going to look a little different for all of us this year. Instead of going out, tune in to these awesome virtual activities hosted by local organizations and businesses. Best of all, these activities are free. Most are taking place on April 22, 2020. Find an Earth Day activity for … [Read more...] about Earth Day Virtual Activities

Domino’s: Get Large, 3-Topping Pizza for $7.99

In case you need a break from the contents of your pantry, take advantage of this great deal on pizza. Domino’s is continuing its popular weeklong carryout special, sure to give you a break from home cooking, while also staying within your food budget. Every day of the week, customers can … [Read more...] about Domino’s: Get Large, 3-Topping Pizza for $7.99

Leach Botanical Garden’s Spring Plant Sale is Now Online

Plants from the Leach Botanical Garden's collection is now available for purchase online. The historical garden hosts its spring plant sale every year for gardeners who like to fill their yards with unique, beautiful plants from the garden's collection. This year, the garden is offering a unique, … [Read more...] about Leach Botanical Garden’s Spring Plant Sale is Now Online

Calm App Offers Free Wellness Resource

All of this uncertainty right now is stressful. Taking a moment to relax and recharge is important to maintain balance as we navigate this new territory for the foreseeable future.  If you meditate or enjoy soothing sounds as you drift off to sleep, you’ve probably familiar with the popular … [Read more...] about Calm App Offers Free Wellness Resource

Get Your Garden Started with Curbside Pickup

All of this nice weather has gardeners across the metro area itching to dig in some dirt and start preparing their gardens for the growing season. Thankfully, Portland garden centers are getting creative and giving our communities the opportunity to purchase needed supplies, with safety in … [Read more...] about Get Your Garden Started with Curbside Pickup

When Will Your Stimulus Check Arrive?

Since the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law on March 27, we've all been wondering when the stimulus check will hit our bank accounts. In this post you'll find the answers to how much you can expect and when it should arrive. How much will I get? How … [Read more...] about When Will Your Stimulus Check Arrive?

Students Get Rosetta Stone Free for Three Months

Rosetta Stone is making it easier than ever for students to learn a new language. The language learning software is offering students free access for three months.  As a thank-you for social distancing, Rosetta Stone is giving students K-12 open access to 24 languages. They’ll learn through … [Read more...] about Students Get Rosetta Stone Free for Three Months

Free Local Livestreams, Virtual Tours and Activities

Portland is filled with incredible educational opportunities for adults and children. Many of our favorite places around the city have taken their content online to give us fun livestreams, virtual tours and activities we can interact with from the comfort of our home. Best of all, these … [Read more...] about Free Local Livestreams, Virtual Tours and Activities

Companies Hiring Now in Portland

We've all seen the headlines of local companies shuttering their doors, laying off employees and preparing to weather the storm for the unforeseeable future. For our community members who were hit the hardest by these temporary closures, there is hope of getting back on your feet and working in one … [Read more...] about Companies Hiring Now in Portland

MasterClass BOGO Free Annual Pass

Have you ever read an incredible book or watched an unforgettable game and asked yourself, how did they do that? Now is your chance to learn from the pros at a bargain price with this MasterClass membership discount. MasterClass is an immersive online experience offering access to genius by … [Read more...] about MasterClass BOGO Free Annual Pass

Calling All Harry Potter Fans! New Website Brings Hogwarts to You

Beloved Young Adult author J.K Rowling is bringing magic to your new daily life with Harry Potter At Home. This project is designed to cast a Banishing Charm on boredom through interactive games and access to the book series. The new website is a free online collection of child-friendly activities, … [Read more...] about Calling All Harry Potter Fans! New Website Brings Hogwarts to You

Get $1.99 Kids’ Meals at Red Robin

Treat your family to something special tonight! Red Robin is offering a limited time deal with your kiddos in mind. Red Robin is offering $1.99 kids’ meals all day, every day with purchase of an entrée, for a limited-time at participating locations. Now through April 12, guests can take … [Read more...] about Get $1.99 Kids’ Meals at Red Robin

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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