Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Attractions & Museums

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

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

Portland Spring Home and Garden Show

It's time to plan your projects. If you love house and yard improvement, head to the Portland Spring Home and Garden Show. Get ready to spark your own creativity and be inspired at this upcoming event.  2026 Portland Spring Home and Garden Show The Portland Spring Home and Garden Show is … [Read more...] about Portland Spring Home and Garden Show

2026 Chinese New Year Cultural Fair

Celebrate the Year of the Horse during the Chinese New Year Cultural Fair at the Oregon Convention Center. The Year of the Horse is a symbol of leadership and success. Join in on the daylong celebration of a year of good fortune. 2026 Chinese New Year Cultural Fair On Saturday, February 28, … [Read more...] about 2026 Chinese New Year Cultural Fair

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

Love Rats? Attend the 2026 Ratapalooza

Are you a rat enthusiast or simply curious about these intelligent and affectionate little creatures? Attend Ratapalooza this February.  Ratapalooza is a beloved Pacific Northwest celebration of these cute little creatures. The family-friendly event offers fun activities, adorable rats and a … [Read more...] about Love Rats? Attend the 2026 Ratapalooza

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

2026 Portland Jewish Film Festival

The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education hosts the annual Portland Jewish Film Festival, an event that promises to captivate audiences with its diverse lineup of thought-provoking films. For over two decades, the Portland Jewish Film Festival has been a significant cultural … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Jewish Film 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

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

Oregon Zoo’s Winter Discount Days

The Oregon Zoo is one of the best attractions in Portland for fun day of adventure. With many special programs, events and exhibits, everyone can take a walk on the wild side, no matter your age. The Portland hot spot is making it easier to enjoy all its animals during Oregon Zoo discount days. A … [Read more...] about Oregon Zoo’s Winter Discount Days

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

Portland Art Museum Free Admission Day

Get free admission to the Portland Art Museum during the Miller Family Community Free Day. Located in the heart of downtown, Portland Art Museum is internationally renowned for exciting art experiences. On free admission days, our community gets open access to one of our city's top attractions … [Read more...] about Portland Art Museum Free Admission Day

Powell’s Books Friends and Family Sale

Get ready to stock up on your reading list at Powell's Books Friends and Family Sale. Powell's Books has been serving Portland's bibliophiles since 1971. Now with four locations throughout the metro area, you have more opportunities peruse your favorite titles and support an independent … [Read more...] about Powell’s Books Friends and Family Sale

2026 Oregon International Auto Show

Get ready to buckle up and experience the thrill of the Oregon International Auto Show, returning to the Oregon Convention Center this February. At the Pacific Northwest's biggest auto show, this event promises to be better than ever before, showcasing hundreds of new vehicles, the latest in car … [Read more...] about 2026 Oregon International Auto Show

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

2026 Lunar New Year Celebrations in Portland

Celebrate the Year of the Horse at Lunar New Year celebrations throughout Portland.  Tied to the lunisolar calendar, Lunar New Year is an important holiday in China, and it is also widely celebrated throughout Asia. There are several ways to enjoy traditional and contemporary cultural … [Read more...] about 2026 Lunar New Year Celebrations in Portland

The 10th Annual NW Black Comedy Festival

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

2026 Lunar New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden

Portland's most popular Lunar New Year Celebration is back at Lan Su Chinese Garden. The three week festival features hanging red lanterns, performances, light shows and activities. The Chinese New Year festival is celebrating the Year of the Horse on select days from February 17-March 1, 2026. … [Read more...] about 2026 Lunar New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden

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

Free and Cheap Valentine’s Day Activities in Portland

Try something new this Valentine's Day!  Instead of overspending on February 14, try one of these free and cheap Valentine's Day activities in Portland. Enjoying each other's company and celebrating your love does not have to come with a hefty price tag. The events below range from free to … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Valentine’s Day Activities in Portland

Valentine’s Express Steam Train Ride in Portland

Looking for a unique way to celebrate Valentine's Day? Climb aboard Oregon Pacific Railroad's train for a special ride around 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 … [Read more...] about Valentine’s Express Steam Train Ride in 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

Studio Ghibli Film Festival at OMSI

Join the monthlong celebration of Japanese animation during the Studio Ghibli Film Festival at OMSI. Experience 21 unforgettable adventures from the acclaimed animation studio. Here if the schedule for the 2026 festival. 2026 Studio Ghibli Film Festival Schedule The Studio Ghibli Film … [Read more...] about Studio Ghibli Film Festival at OMSI

2026 Free Days at U.S. National Parks

The national parks get even better during free days. America's Best Idea — our national parks — is even better when admission is free! Mark your calendar now for entrance fee-free dates for the coming year. On these dates, free entrance is available at national parks across the country that … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Days at U.S. National Parks

2026 Portland Winter Light Festival

During the darkest time of year, one Portland event brings the city together to celebrate creativity, culture and community through light.  The annual Portland Winter Light Festival is one of the most popular winter festivals in the city. The citywide outdoor arts celebration features … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Winter Light Festival

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

Valentine’s Skate Date Deal at Oaks Park

Enjoy a night of romance during the Valentine's skate at Oaks Park. This event offers a special skate date deal for couples.  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 … [Read more...] about Valentine’s Skate Date Deal at Oaks Park

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

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

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

Maizee Mae’s Vintage and Collectible Market

Find one-of-a-kind treasures at Maizee Mae's Vintage and Collectible Market. If you love browsing unique goods and filling your home with unique items, this is the event for you. The market brings together the best of our community's treasure hunters to display vintage, collectible and specialty … [Read more...] about Maizee Mae’s Vintage and Collectible Market

2026 Cascade Festival of African Films

In celebration of Black History Month, Portland Community College hosts the annual Cascade Festival of African Films.  The Cascade Festival of African Films was founded in 1991 by four Portland Community College faculty members. Now in its 36th year, the festival is the longest running … [Read more...] about 2026 Cascade Festival of African Films

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

Share the Love: Glass Hearts Hidden at Tualatin Parks

In February, 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

Oaks Park Roller Rink: Go Skating for $13

Zooming around the wooden oval rink to playful music with a kaleidoscope of colors illuminating room as we make a feeble attempt to defy gravity by holding on to friends and family. There are a lot of fond memories that come with roller skating. This nostalgia was taken to a whole new level by … [Read more...] about Oaks Park Roller Rink: Go Skating for $13

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

2026 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 2026 Mt. Angel Volksfest

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

Budget-Friendly Soaking Pools and Saunas in and around Portland

Looking for an inexpensive way to warm up and unwind in Portland? Here's your guide to soaking pools and saunas in and around Portland.  These serene retreats provide locals and visitors alike an escape from the hustle and bustle. Unwind and rejuvenate in the tranquil spa settings. Whether … [Read more...] about Budget-Friendly Soaking Pools and Saunas in and around Portland

Kennedy School’s History and Art Tour

Journey back in time at Kennedy School’s History and Art Tour. 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 shop and a brewery. If you're looking for a … [Read more...] about Kennedy School’s History and Art Tour

MLK Day Free Admission and Guided Walks at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Spend Martin Luther King Jr Day immersed in the beauty of this transfixing garden.  Nestled between Reed College and the Eastmoreland Golf Course is an urban oasis called Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. On the 9-acre property grows a collection of rare species and hybrid rhododendrons, … [Read more...] about MLK Day Free Admission and Guided Walks at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Movie Madness Free Community Screenings

Movie Madness, Portland's very own video rental store, hosts free community screenings every week. Started in 1991, Movie Madness has more than 80,000 titles, including new releases, childhood classics, foreign films from more than 65 countries, an extensive LGBTQ section, and cult … [Read more...] about Movie Madness Free Community Screenings

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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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