Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Attractions & Museums

Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

Oregon State Parks Day is June 7, 2025. Make the most of the celebration with free admission, camping and fishing across the state. More than 100 years ago, a 5-acre donation by Sarah Helmick created Oregon’s first official state park. Today, the state park system has 254 park properties and more … [Read more...] about Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

Cool off this summer at one of our city's outdoor pools for free during open play swim sessions. All of Portland Parks and Recreation's outdoor pools are offering free open play swim sessions this summer. No registration is required to swim. Free admission is available on a first come, first … [Read more...] about Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

Be Wildfire Aware: World Forestry Center Free Admission and Activities

Visit the World Forestry Center for a special community preparedness event: Be Wildfire Aware.  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 Be Wildfire Aware: World Forestry Center Free Admission and Activities

Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids, Teens and Adults

Looking for a fun reading program to keep your kids on track this summer? Or maybe you want to keep yourself on top of new releases and try different genres. Portland libraries and national companies offer summer reading programs for kids, teens and adults. Best of all, you can win prizes for … [Read more...] about Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids, Teens and Adults

Pick Strawberries at these Portland You-Pick Farms

It's strawberry season in the Pacific Northwest! Travel to these you-pick farms in and around Portland to fill your basket with fresh strawberries. We're lucky enough to live close to some incredible you-pick farms in and around Portland. One of the first crops to kick off the harvest season are … [Read more...] about Pick Strawberries at these Portland You-Pick Farms

Discount Admission to Portland Rose Festival’s CityFair

Get free and cheap admission to the Portland Rose Festival's main attraction, CityFair. For more than 100 years, the Portland Rose Festival has been a beloved celebration of our beautiful city. The festival has tons of free and cheap activities your whole family can enjoy. For three weeks, … [Read more...] about Discount Admission to Portland Rose Festival’s CityFair

Multnomah County Fair at Oaks Park

This Memorial Day weekend, head to Oaks Park for some good, old-fashioned fun at the Multnomah County Fair. The annual fair has been entertaining Portlanders since 1906. Traditionally an event for locals to exhibit farming and homesteading techniques, fairs have expanded to showcase food, … [Read more...] about Multnomah County Fair at Oaks Park

Free and Cheap Memorial Day Weekend Events in Portland

Celebrate your three-day weekend at one of these free and cheap Memorial Day weekend events in Portland. I've compiled a list of activities and events to get you out and exploring our awesome city this holiday weekend. There is something for everyone, from festivals and train rides to markets and … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Memorial Day Weekend Events in Portland

Build a Bouquet of Peonies at Columbia Farms

Fill your home with a beautiful bouquet you built yourself from local flowers. Peonies are in bloom at Columbia Farms.  This Sauvie Island farm is one of the many you-pick farms you can enjoy this spring and summer. Columbia Farms prides itself on creating a quiet, quaint, working-farm … [Read more...] about Build a Bouquet of Peonies at Columbia Farms

2025 Troutdale Arts Festival

Connect with your community and support regional artists, studios, workshops, and galleries at the Troutdale Arts Festival in downtown Troutdale along the Sandy River. Hosted by Cascadia Arts Association, the festival features artists, art demonstrations, musicians, local food and drinks, and a … [Read more...] about 2025 Troutdale Arts Festival

Portland Rose Festival Free and Cheap Events

For more than 100 years, the Portland Rose Festival has been a beloved celebration of our beautiful city. It takes place every year from the end of May through June. This citywide celebration is inclusive of everyone with many free and cheap events to enjoy.  The 2025 Rose Festival is May … [Read more...] about Portland Rose Festival Free and Cheap Events

2025 Gem and Mineral Show

Where are all my rockhounds at? The Clackamette Mineral and Gem Club's annual Gem and Mineral Show is taking place Memorial Day weekend. The local club is a community of people who enjoy educating and sharing in many areas of expertise, including geology, rockhounding, mineral collection, … [Read more...] about 2025 Gem and Mineral Show

Visit Wilhelm’s Portland Memorial Mausoleum Memorial Day Weekend

Portland's largest mausoleum is opening its doors for special public tours Memorial Day weekend. The Wilhelm's Portland Memorial Funeral Home in Sellwood is the final resting place of more than 97,000 people and home to the extraordinary Rae Room. During Memorial Day weekend, you get the rare … [Read more...] about Visit Wilhelm’s Portland Memorial Mausoleum Memorial Day Weekend

2025 McMenamins UFO Fest

McMenamins is hosting its annual festival for believers and skeptics alike. Head to the 25th annual UFO Fest this May. The festival is inspired by the 1950 UFO sighting on a farm outside McMinnville. The story goes that on the night of Thursday, May 11, 1950, Evelyn Trent went out to feed her … [Read more...] about 2025 McMenamins UFO Fest

Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony Gardens

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of blooming flowers at Adelman Peony Gardens' free peony fields. Every springtime, the gardens invite the public to experience different colors and smells of peonies. Here's information about the 2025 event. Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony … [Read more...] about Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony Gardens

Latin American Community Ciencias Night at OMSI

Celebrate Latin American culture and community at this special OMSI science night. Latin American Community Ciencias Night is a family-friendly night of museum exploring, science demos, lectures and cultural entertainment. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, better known as OMSI, is one of … [Read more...] about Latin American Community Ciencias Night at OMSI

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

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

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

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

Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

This location is no longer open to the public. 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 … [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

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

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

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

2024 Portland Winter Ice Rink

The winter ice rink is not open in 2025.  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 … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Winter Ice Rink

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

Holiday Pop Up at Topaz Farm

Take a trip to Topaz Farm for a special holiday pop up. Start your holiday shopping from the farm's selection of gifts and goods. Here are the details about the upcoming farm event.  Holiday Pop Up at Topaz Farm Pick up homemade goods, farm fresh foods and beverages at Topaz Farm's Holiday … [Read more...] about Holiday Pop Up at Topaz Farm

Free Birthday Admission at Leach Botanical Garden

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Leach Botanical Garden is offering free birthday admission to everyone in 2024.  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 … [Read more...] about Free Birthday Admission at Leach Botanical Garden

2024 Winter Gleam: A Holiday Light Experience at Oaks Amusement Park

This event has not been announced for 2025.  Winter Gleam, a holiday light experience, returns to dazzle guests with colorful lights and fun displays at Oaks Amusement Park.  As you wander through the park, you'll be captivated by dynamic holiday lights that infuse the park with … [Read more...] about 2024 Winter Gleam: A Holiday Light Experience at Oaks Amusement Park

PDX Moon Market

Find unique, handcrafted items at the PDX Moon Market.  The market blends local artisans and makers and food and cocktail vendors with fun activities and a welcoming environment.  Here are the details about the upcoming event. Another upcoming market you might enjoy is Maizee … [Read more...] about PDX Moon Market

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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