Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Attractions & Museums

NW’s Largest Garage Sale and Vintage Sale

Want to visit more than 600 garage sales all under one roof? Attend one of the NW's Largest Garage Sale and Vintage Sale events.  Since 2009, this event has brought together a community of people who enjoy making the old new again. Come find new to you treasures at this year's events. If … [Read more...] about NW’s Largest Garage Sale and Vintage Sale

2026 Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens

Every spring, the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens hosts Lilac Days to celebrate the beauty blooms and legacy of a plant pioneer. The annual event takes place for 23 days on a quaint historic farm just off of I-5 in Woodland, Washington.  Hulda Klager, known as the Lilac Lady, began hybridizing … [Read more...] about 2026 Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens

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

Portland Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival

Head to the Portland Expo Center for all things crafty at the annual Portland Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival. This event celebrates a new season of boundless possibilities. Spring is a great time to start planning homemade holiday gifts or get ideas for a project just for you to … [Read more...] about Portland Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival

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 continually used cemeteries. The 30 acres is the final resting place of many … [Read more...] about Tour Portland’s Historic Lone Fir Cemetery

Free Earth Day Celebration at The Oregon Garden

In celebration of Earth Day, The Oregon Garden hosts a day of fun filled with free activities and exhibits. If you haven't been, this is the ideal time to visit this Oregon attraction. The 80-acre botanical garden feature more than 20 specialty gardens showcasing the diverse botanical beauty of the … [Read more...] about Free Earth Day Celebration at The Oregon Garden

Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Celebrate World Forestry Center's 60th anniversary during 2026 free admission days.  We love our forests in Oregon. The World Forestry Center's Discovery Museum is located right here in our city, inviting visitors to examine forests and consider all the ways they benefit our … [Read more...] about Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

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

Sci-Fi Film Festival at OMSI

Embark on an intergalactic journey through the vast realms of science fiction during the Sci-Fi Film Festival at OMSI. Over the course of five weeks, the Empirical Theater's four-story screen will come alive with more than 30 of the genre's most iconic and unforgettable films. From cult … [Read more...] about Sci-Fi Film Festival at OMSI

Visit Vista House: The Crown Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge

Sitting atop Crown Point, Vista House is the crown jewel of the Columbia River Gorge. While the viewpoint and parking have remained open, Vista House has been mostly closed over the past two years. It had a limited reopening last fall and closed again for needed repairs. Now, the building is … [Read more...] about Visit Vista House: The Crown Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge

2026 Portland Night Market

Explore the city's best vendors celebrating local food, culture, music, drinks and retail at Portland Night Market. Since 2015, the Portland Night Market has centered around Portland's creative scene. This event is a unique experience on the Central Eastside for Portlanders of all … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Night Market

Thompson Elk Fountain Homecoming Celebration

Portland welcomes back a beloved symbol of the city’s history, the Thompson Elk Fountain, and you’re invited to be part of the celebration. On Sunday, April 12, from 1-4 p.m., the City of Portland, Portland Parks Foundation, and the Regional Arts & Culture Council host the Thompson Elk Fountain … [Read more...] about Thompson Elk Fountain Homecoming Celebration

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

Easter Bunny Express Train Ride

Celebrate the return of spring at the Easter Bunny Express train ride with the Oregon Rail Heritage Center. The Oregon Pacific Railroad is a family owned and operated freight railroad company. The company operates a special passenger train along the East Portland Division railroad line in … [Read more...] about Easter Bunny Express Train Ride

Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale

Get your garden ready for the growing season at the Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale. The sale is hosted by the Hardy Plant Society of Oregon. Founded in 1984, the organization is dedicated to nurturing the gardening community in Oregon and Southwest Washington. The organization … [Read more...] about Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale

French Prairie Gardens Tulip and Flower Fest

Spring is in full bloom. Celebrate the season by immersing yourself in a sea of vibrant flowers at the French Prairie Gardens Tulip and Flower Festival! With more than six acres of dazzling tulips and daffodils, visitors can stroll through vibrant fields, capturing pictures of the vibrant spring … [Read more...] about French Prairie Gardens Tulip and Flower Fest

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are taking place throughout 2026.  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

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

The Tesla City Stories: Get Discount Tickets to the Season 10 Premiere

Sponsored post It's the season 10 premiere of The Tesla City Stories! Go back in time with all-new live episodes on April 3 at the Old Church Concert Hall. Plus, you can cash in on a special discount.  Get $12 discount tickets to The Tesla City Stories April show at TeslaTix.com. Use code … [Read more...] about The Tesla City Stories: Get Discount Tickets to the Season 10 Premiere

2026 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. Hundreds of museums and attractions participate in the Bank of America free museum days in cities across the United States. In Portland, we have three participating … [Read more...] about 2026 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission

2026 Thriftapalooza: Attend the Sustainable Thrifting Market

Thriftapalooza is coming to Portland! Portland is known for its thrifting scene. From flea markets to secondhand shops to buy nothing groups, our community embraces sustainability and waste reduction in our everyday lives. If you love searching for new-to-you items and practicing … [Read more...] about 2026 Thriftapalooza: Attend the Sustainable Thrifting Market

Free Carousel and Train Rides at Oaks Park

Oaks Amusement Park invites the community to enjoy two vintage pieces of Portland's history free of charge.  Portland's very own amusement park has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. In fact, it is one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in the … [Read more...] about Free Carousel and Train Rides at Oaks Park

Looking for Wildflower Hikes? Use This Bloom Map

Get out and enjoy our region's beautiful flora on a wildflower hike. You'll always know what's in bloom with this map. Spring has sprung in the Northwest. We've already seen many of the best springtime blooms filling our neighborhoods and parks with vibrant colors. If you enjoy hiking and want to … [Read more...] about Looking for Wildflower Hikes? Use This Bloom Map

Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm

Celebrate Easter on the farm! Kids and adults of all ages are welcome to participate in the Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm. Bella Organic 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, … [Read more...] about Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm

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

Trillium Festival at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Tyron Creek Natural Area is celebrating one of Portland's must-see spring blooms. The Trillium Festival invites you to get outside and enjoy this special seasonal flower.  Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a … [Read more...] about Trillium Festival at Tryon Creek Natural Area

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

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Portland

After another grey, cold winter in Portland, I think I speak for all of us when I say spring cannot come soon enough. Thankfully, Portland is filled with one of the best signs that spring has officially sprung—cherry blossoms. From mid-March to April, cherry blossoms burst into bloom throughout … [Read more...] about Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Portland

St. Patrick’s Day Events in Portland

Get your Irish on at St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Portland. St. Patrick's Day is Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Locations across the city are hosting parties and festivals during the weekend. You’ll find plenty of Irish music, step dancers and bagpipes along with fun activities and food … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Events in Portland

All-Ireland Cultural Society’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

All-Ireland Cultural Society of Oregon is hosting a family-friendly St. Patrick's Day Celebration.  For more than 80 years, All-Ireland Cultural Society's all-volunteer nonprofit has been promoting social opportunities, Irish entertainment and Irish cultural events in Oregon and Southwest … [Read more...] about All-Ireland Cultural Society’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

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

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield

Attend the St. Patrick's Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield during the holiday weekend.  Built in 1911 as the county poor farm, the historic Edgefield's original buildings have been carefully restored. The grounds are complete with gardens, restaurants, bars, a spa and a par 3 golf … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School

Enjoy a weekend of merriment, fun and food during the St. Patrick's Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School. Since its 1915 opening, this historic elementary school has been a beloved fixture of Portland. It now boasts guest rooms, a restaurant, multiple small bars, a movie theater, gift … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School

St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Paddy’s Bar and Grill

Join Paddy’s Bar and Grill for the annual St. Patrick's Day Festival. Paddy’s is the oldest Irish Pub in downtown Portland. It's been serving traditional Irish fare in the historic Powers Building for over 35 years. Get ready to celebrate the Irish holiday at this iconic location.  St. … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Paddy’s Bar and Grill

Gem Faire at Westside Commons

Gem Faire is taking over the entire expo hall at Westside Commons for the three-day event. The fair is one of the largest gem, jewelry and bead shows in the U.S. With more than 25 shows a year, you're sure to see the best of the best in the gem industry. The dealers at Gem Faire are direct … [Read more...] about Gem Faire at Westside Commons

Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

The Planetarium Sky Theater at Mt. Hood Community College welcomes visitors into a world of cosmic wonders and astronomical marvels. The planetarium recently reopened to be public and offers shows on select dates each month.  Here are the details about Planetarium Sky Theater … [Read more...] about Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

Shamrock Special Steam Train Ride

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day weekend with a scenic steam train ride in Portland. The Oregon Pacific Railroad is a family owned and operated freight railroad company. The company operates a special passenger train along the East Portland Division railroad line in Portland.  Put on your … [Read more...] about Shamrock Special Steam Train Ride

Tualatin Valley Gem Club Rock and Gem Show

Explore rocks, minerals and fossils at the 67th annual Tualatin Valley Gem Club Rock and Gem Show. The event is hosted by the nonprofit gem club that promotes the interests and learning of geology, lapidary arts, paleontology and mineralogy. Show your support for the club at the 2026 … [Read more...] about Tualatin Valley Gem Club Rock and Gem Show

2026 Lunar New Year Dragon Dance Parade and Celebration

The Portland Chinese Museum is hosting its annual Lunar New Year Dragon Dance Parade and Celebration in Downtown Portland. Opened in December 2018, the Portland Chinatown Museum is Oregon’s first museum about to Chinese American history, art and culture. The museum is dedicated to honoring … [Read more...] about 2026 Lunar New Year Dragon Dance Parade and Celebration

NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace

View hand made creations at NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace. Native American Youth and Family Center, NAYA, is a family of numerous tribes and voices who are dedicated to sustaining tradition and building cultural wealth. This weekend, you can see local culture come to life at this … [Read more...] about NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace

Adult Craft Nights with SCRAP PDX

If you're looking for a fun and creative way to spend your evening, SCRAP PDX has just the event for you. This nonprofit creative reuse center is bringing its stash of unique, budget-friendly art supplies to local community bars and breweries for a series of Adult Craft Nights. Here's how you can … [Read more...] about Adult Craft Nights with SCRAP PDX

2026 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events

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 performances, from new musicians … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events

2026 Agate and Mineral Show at OMSI

Explore the wonders of nature at the annual Agate and Mineral Show. The event is held at Portland's very own science center, OMSI. Enjoy exhibits, special displays and activities, demonstrations and more at this free, family-friendly event.  2026 Agate and Mineral Show at OMSI The Agate … [Read more...] about 2026 Agate and Mineral Show at OMSI

Lunar New Year Celebration at Washington Square

Lunar New Year Celebration at Washington Square is ringing in the Year of the Horse with a special event focusing on good fortune and happiness. The mall joins a list of Lunar New Year Celebrations in Portland. Here are the details about the 2026 event.  Lunar New Year Celebration at … [Read more...] about Lunar New Year Celebration at Washington Square

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