Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Attractions & Museums

Discount Days at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Visit the Lloyd Center Ice Rink on discount days to get the best deal on your ice skating adventure. Despite the mass exodus of stores from the Lloyd Center Mall, the heart of the shopping center is still thriving. Located in the center of the mall, the Lloyd Center Ice Rink is open seven days a … [Read more...] about Discount Days at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

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

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

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother’s Day Train Ride

Take a scenic trip through Clark County on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother's Day Ride.  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 … [Read more...] about Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother’s Day Train Ride

2025 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 2025 Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens

Portland Street Fairs You Won’t Want to Miss

Enjoy free summertime fun at these Portland street fairs. One of my favorite summertime activities in Portland is attending the totally free, family-friendly and fun neighborhood street fairs. If you're new to Portland or haven't explored the city in a while, this is a great way to get out there … [Read more...] about Portland Street Fairs You Won’t Want to Miss

7 Great Portland Picnic Parks

By Marie Sherlock The idea of a meal shared al fresco in a lovely natural setting has been around for a very long time—perhaps since Adam and Eve and that apple. So while picnics don't really represent an up and coming trend, they do rank very high as a budget-friendly way to see the city … [Read more...] about 7 Great Portland Picnic Parks

Free and Cheap Mother’s Day Events in and around Portland

There's something for every mom in this list of free and cheap Mother's Day events in and around Portland. The best part is no one has to spend a bunch of money to celebrate Mom on this special day. Instead, opt for some quality time and a fun activity. Take a look at what Portland and … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Mother’s Day Events in and around Portland

Hood River Cider Fest

Discover some of the region's best hard cider at the Hood River Cider Fest. Just an hour from Portland, the 11th annual event is bringing together 20 Oregon and Washington cideries. Hood River Cider Fest The cider fest is taking place May 3, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. There are more than 30 … [Read more...] about Hood River Cider Fest

2025 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Attend the 38th annual Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland. The fiesta lights up the city with color, rhythm and flavor. The event is the largest multicultural festival in Oregon. The three-day bilingual event hosts special attractions and featured … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden: Southeast Portland’s Botanical Oasis

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, azaleas, shrubs, companion plants and unusual trees. The garden blends water and land as … [Read more...] about Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden: Southeast Portland’s Botanical Oasis

Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market

Plan your visit to the Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market, the largest handmade craft show in the Northwest. Crafty Wonderland is the ultimate local handmade art and craft event of the season. If you haven’t attended this magical craft fair in the past, let me give you a little … [Read more...] about Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market

Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm

Get up close with farm animals and enjoy family-friendly activities during a Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm. Every spring and summer, Frog Pond Farm invites the public to spend the day enjoying life on the 40-acre property. Here's how you can enjoy farm animals this weekend:  Farm … [Read more...] about Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm

Indigenous Culture Day at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Listen and learn from Indigenous educators in the culturally rich Tryon Creek State Natural Area during Indigenous Culture Day. 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 … [Read more...] about Indigenous Culture Day at Tryon Creek Natural Area

50+ Portland Area Thrift and Consignment Stores

Portlanders love thrift and consignment stores. Thankfully, our city caters to this affinity and is chock-full of places where bargain hunters thrive. Whether your style is a pair of Levi's jeans and a secondhand flannel or a vintage dress with like-new Dr. Martens or Frye's, you'll find it at these … [Read more...] about 50+ Portland Area Thrift and Consignment Stores

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

Early Rhododendron Show and Sale at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Blossom into spring at the Early Rhododendron Show and Sale at Crystal Springs Rhododendron 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 … [Read more...] about Early Rhododendron Show and Sale at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

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

Oregon Potters Association Ceramic Showcase

In its 42nd year, the Oregon Potters Association invites the public to a free ceramic showcase. The association represents a group of diverse ceramic artists, makers, teachers and students. At the annual event, the members bring their creations under one roof for the whole community to … [Read more...] about Oregon Potters Association Ceramic Showcase

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

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

2025 Portland House and Outdoor Living Show

The Portland House and Outdoor Living Show wants to make your dream home a reality. This event promises a haven for homeowners and backyard enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to renovate, remodel or simply seeking inspiration, this is the place to be this weekend.  Also happening this … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland House and Outdoor Living Show

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

Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

A few years ago, I stumbled across a beautiful tulip field that seemed too good to be true. Located just 30 minutes from Portland, the tulip fields at Holland America Flower Gardens are in bloom and free to visit.  Holland America Flower Gardens started when Benno and Klazina immigrated from … [Read more...] about Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

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

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

2025 Portland Spring Festivals

Get ready for spring festivals in Portland. My favorite season in Portland is spring. By March, the sun starts to shine once again and our neighborhoods come to life with the sights and smells of springtime blooms. It feels like our city is rising anew with a bounty of opportunities to get out … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Spring Festivals

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

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

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

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

Spring Equinox Garden Fair at Leach Botanical Garden

Celebrate the beginning of a new season, nature and gardening at the Spring Equinox Garden Fair. Leach Botanical Garden is a natural oasis nestled in Southeast Portland. The 16-acre estate features more than 2,000 plant species growing along the banks of Johnson Creek. Adding to the unique charm … [Read more...] about Spring Equinox Garden Fair at Leach Botanical Garden

St. Patrick’s Day Events in Portland

Get your Irish on at St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Portland. St. Patrick's Day is Monday, March 17. 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 specials. The … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Events in Portland

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

2025 Portland Irish Festival

Portland's iconic Irish pub, Kells, is hosting an Irish Festival with multiple days of music and fun. Since 1983, Kells has brought Irish food, drinks and a weekly lineup of music to Portlanders at its iconic pub. This St. Patrick's Day, put on your green and head downtown to celebrate at the … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Irish Festival

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

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

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

Tualatin Valley Gem Club Rock and Gem Show

Explore rocks, minerals and fossils at the 66th 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 2025 … [Read more...] about Tualatin Valley Gem Club Rock and Gem Show

2025 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.  2025 Agate and Mineral Show at OMSI The Agate … [Read more...] about 2025 Agate and Mineral Show at OMSI

2025 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 2025 Thriftapalooza: Attend the Sustainable Thrifting Market

2025 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 2025 Oregon International Auto Show

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

Love Rats? Attend the 2025 Ratapalooza

Are you a rat enthusiast or simply curious about these intelligent and affectionate little creatures? Attend Ratapalooza this Saturday.  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 2025 Ratapalooza

2025 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 2025 Portland Winter Light Festival

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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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