Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Victoria

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

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

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

Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Walk the trails of Tryon Creek Natural Area with outdoor experts during guided nature walks. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in moss with huge … [Read more...] about Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Free First Sunday at the Oregon Jewish Museum

Visit the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education during Free First Sunday. The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, or OJMCHE, explores the legacy of the Jewish people in Oregon while also teaching the universal relevance of the Holocaust and providing … [Read more...] about Free First Sunday at the Oregon Jewish Museum

2025 Mt. Angel Volksfest

Head to Mt. Angel for the annual Volksfest featuring authentic German food and drink along with live music and family-friendly entertainment.  Known for its Bavarian-inspired architecture and welcoming community spirit, Mt. Angel offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city … [Read more...] about 2025 Mt. Angel Volksfest

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are back in 2024.  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 attractions along with … [Read more...] about Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

2025 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events

The Portland Jazz Festival has celebrated jazz music and culture in Portland for more than 20 years. View all of the free performances scheduled during the two-week festival.  Explore live performances, jazz conversations and events. Artists cover a full range of the genre, from new … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events

Celebrate J.R.R. Tolkien’s Birthday at Kennedy School

Calling all Lord of the Ring lovers! Celebrate J.R.R. Tolkien's birthday at McMenamins Kennedy School this weekend.  John Ronald Reuel Tolkien was an English writer and poet who is best known for creating the magical world of Middle-earth. Through his world building in the novel The Hobbit … [Read more...] about Celebrate J.R.R. Tolkien’s Birthday at Kennedy School

2025 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival

Enjoy Oregon seafood and delicious beverages at the Portland Seafood and Wine Festival.  For the past 19 years, Portlanders have gathered during the peak Dungeness crab season to savor the locally sourced, fermented and distilled food and drinks. 2025 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival The … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival

Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon

Attend the Japanese American Museum of Oregon for Free First Sunday event.  The Japanese American Museum of Oregon preserves and honors the history and culture of Japanese Americans in the Pacific Northwest. The museum educates the public about the Japanese American experience during WWII, … [Read more...] about Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon

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

New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland

  Ring in 2025 at the New Year’s Eve Celebration in Downtown Portland at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Are you ready to welcome 2025 in the most spectacular way? Attend the inaugural family-friendly celebration complete with live drones, dancing and fun.  Here are the … [Read more...] about New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland

How to Watch the 2025 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square

If you're hosting an NYE party at your house or plan to ring in the new year in your favorite jammies, here's an easy way to make the night festive: watch the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square. Portland has lots of free and cheap events on New Year's Eve. But a quiet night a home can be … [Read more...] about How to Watch the 2025 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square

Portland Restaurants Open on New Year’s Eve

Ring in the new year at these Portland restaurants. Cheers to the end of 2024! Here's a list of Portland restaurants open on New Year's Eve, Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Portland offers a host of New Year's Eve events. Restaurants join in on the fun by pulling out all the stops to celebrate the … [Read more...] about Portland Restaurants Open on New Year’s Eve

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day

Stay busy on New Year's Day with these weekend activities. Welcome to 2025, everyone! January 1 is full for free and cheap activities to get you moving and exploring our wonderful city this year. Whether you like to be indoors or outdoors during the holiday, there is something for you to … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day

2025 Lunar New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden

Portland's most popular Lunar New Year Celebration is back at Lan Su Chinese Garden. The nearly month-long festival features hanging red lanterns, performances, light displays and activities. The Chinese New Year festival is celebrating the Year of the Snake from January 29-February 23, 2025. … [Read more...] about 2025 Lunar New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden

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

Whale Watching Week on the Oregon Coast

Oregon is truly a natural wonder. In Portland, we're lucky enough to live a short drive from the mountain and the ocean. If you're looking for an unforgettable day trip or want to get out of the city during winter break, head to the coast for whale watching. Nearly 20,000 gray whales are … [Read more...] about Whale Watching Week on the Oregon Coast

Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland

New Year's Eve events in Portland are the perfect way to ring in 2025. Yet trying to find a celebration that doesn't cost a fortune can be difficult. Here's a round up of free and cheap New Year's Eve events in Portland.  Keep in mind that entrance to these parties may be free or cheap, but … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland

Guided First Day Hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Start your new year off on the right foot at Tryon Creek State Natural Area's first day hike. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in moss with huge ferns lining the trails that leads to the waterway. More than 658 acres … [Read more...] about Guided First Day Hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Free State Park Entrance on New Year’s Day

Start your year off on the right foot with free state park entrance. Oregon State Parks and Washington State Parks invite you to get outdoors on New Year’s Day. Day-use parking fees will be waived at participating parks on January 1, 2025. State parks have a range of activities to partake in, such … [Read more...] about Free State Park Entrance on New Year’s Day

Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland

Have you ever dreamed of riding on the Polar Express? Here's a magical train ride in Portland this holiday season. Join Santa Claus and his elves on the Holiday Express train ride in Portland. This memorable ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives lets you travel inside a vintage rail car … [Read more...] about Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland

2024 Portland Winter Ice Rink

Glide into the season with the perfect blend of tradition and holiday magic at the Portland Winter Ice Rink. As winter blankets the city with its chilly embrace, there's a magical spot waiting to be discovered by families and friends. The new winter ice rink is brimming with family-friendly … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Winter Ice Rink

Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy

As the clock ticks down to the final moments of the year, Milwaukie is gearing up for a unique and exciting New Year's Eve celebration, Bing in the New Year. The event promises to be both family-friendly and fantastically festive. Milwaukie holds a special place in the history of the Bing cherry. … [Read more...] about Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy

The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater

This long-standing screening is an ideal stop for a fun night out on the town. Get your tickets for The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater. Have you ever been to a showing of the cult classic? If not, add it to your Portland bucket list. The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton … [Read more...] about The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater

What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day

Christmas Day in Portland is one of my all-time favorite days of the year. The streets are quiet. There's no traffic. It is almost like the whole city is put on pause. Take advantage of this rare sleepy Wednesday in Portland and check out one of these Christmas Day activities. Whether you like to … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day

Menorah Lighting Celebrations in and around Portland

Celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah at menorah lighting celebrations in and around Portland.. Hanukkah begins on the evening of Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and ends on the evening of Thursday, January 2, 2025.  Events are held on various dates during the week of Hanukkah. These events … [Read more...] about Menorah Lighting Celebrations in and around Portland

Portland Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve and Day

Where to dine out on Christmas Eve and Day in Portland. Leave the stress of preparing a holiday feast behind by dining at one of these Portland restaurants. Here's a list of local and chain restaurants open on Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24, and Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25, … [Read more...] about Portland Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve and Day

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink · Holiday

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