Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Sports & Recreation

Lowest Tide Days on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is known for its rugged beauty. The lowest tide days make a trip to the coast even more magical. These tidal vents reveal hidden wonders for nature enthusiasts, photographers and adventurers to explore. I've gathered a list of the lowest tide days along with some recommendations … [Read more...] about Lowest Tide Days on the Oregon Coast

2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Get free entrance to Forest Service recreation areas on five holidays in 2025. Forest Service recreation area free days include recreation sites and trailheads in Oregon and Washington, such as the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood National Forest, Gifford Pinchot National Forest and 14 more. These … [Read more...] about 2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

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

2025 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon

    Every year, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife invites reeling newbies and advanced anglers to participate in free fishing weekends. During these events, no fishing licenses or tags are required to fish, crab or clam in Oregon.   This is a great opportunity for you to … [Read more...] about 2025 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon

Next Adventure’s Going Out of Business Sale

After nearly three decades of outfitting the Pacific Northwest for outdoor fun, Next Adventure is going out of business. Visit the iconic locations and cash in on some great deals before the doors are closed. What started in 1997 by childhood friends Deek and Bryan as a little shop selling used … [Read more...] about Next Adventure’s Going Out of Business Sale

Planet Fitness Gives Teens Free Summer Membership

Free gym membership? Yes, please. Planet Fitness has locations all over Portland metro offering a high school summer pass. This summer, the gym's commitment to low-cost memberships is about to get even sweeter for your teenager. Here's how you can participate: Planet Fitness High School … [Read more...] about Planet Fitness Gives Teens Free Summer Membership

Free National Parks and Public Lands Passes for 4th Graders

Every 4th grader in the United States has the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the nation with their family for free, thanks to the Every Kid Outdoors Program. This program gives 4th grade students and their families free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including … [Read more...] about Free National Parks and Public Lands Passes for 4th Graders

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

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

Next Adventure Spring Warehouse Sale

Score great deals on outdoor gear at the Next Adventure Spring Warehouse Sale. Whether you're an avid camper, paddling enthusiast or someone who loves outdoor exploration, this sale is your ticket to savings on top quality gear. Read on to discover the exciting details of this event. Next … [Read more...] about Next Adventure Spring Warehouse Sale

Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees

Looking for a fun, outdoor activity like no other? Let me tell you why a self-guided tour of Portland's monkey puzzle trees should be your next adventure. Monkey puzzle trees, Araucaria araucana, are one of the most unique looking species in our city. I remember the first time I noticed one I … [Read more...] about Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees

Free Game Fridays at The People’s Courts

Looking for something fun and free to do on a Friday night? Look no further than Free Game Fridays at The People's Courts. This multi-court recreational and social space in Portland offers an evening filled with friendly competition, great food and good vibes. Here's what to expect: Free Game … [Read more...] about Free Game Fridays at The People’s Courts

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

Is an REI Membership Worth It? Explore the Benefits

If you love the outdoors, you’ve probably heard about REI and its lifetime membership. Yet, is joining the co-op worth it? Let's explore the member benefits.  REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) is a popular outdoor retail co-op that has been outfitting adventurers since 1938. Known for its … [Read more...] about Is an REI Membership Worth It? Explore the Benefits

Why Are There So Many Crows in Portland?

Have you noticed large gatherings of crows in downtown Portland recently? So have I. My curiosity lead me on a quest to figure out why there are so many crows flocking together in Portland during the winter. The crows in my neighborhood provide year-round entertainment on my daily walks. From 4-5 … [Read more...] about Why Are There So Many Crows in Portland?

Hawks and Hot Chocolate: A Winter Birding Adventure on Sauvie Island

Calling all bird enthusiasts! Sip on warm beverages and witness the beauty of the city's wildlife. Hawks and Hot Chocolate invites you to celebrate majestic birds of prey and warm up with a delicious drink.  Sauvie Island is a hotspot for birds of prey. Join the Bird Alliance of Oregon, … [Read more...] about Hawks and Hot Chocolate: A Winter Birding Adventure on Sauvie Island

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

Shoe Mill’s Warehouse Sale: Footwear Starts at $5

Are you a fan of premium footwear at unbeatable prices? Attend Shoe Mill’s Warehouse Sale, taking place for one day only.  Shoe Mill sells comfortable, high-quality shoes and accessories at retail stores in Portland and Salem. This family-owned company has been serving our local community … [Read more...] about Shoe Mill’s Warehouse Sale: Footwear Starts at $5

Need Tools? Borrow Them at Portland’s Tool Libraries

Use these Portland tool libraries to save on your next home improvement project. I don't know about you, but my toolkit consists of a random assortment of screws, a hammer and a butter knife that I used to assemble my IKEA bookcase. Buying tools isn't in everyone's budget, but in Portland we … [Read more...] about Need Tools? Borrow Them at Portland’s Tool Libraries

Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks

  Find a great urban park in your neighborhood Finding a place where you can escape the city may be easier than you think. Many of us leave Portland to enjoy nature and find it isn't quite what we expected. I am sure many of you have experienced the dread of driving an hour to a hiking … [Read more...] about Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks

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

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

Where to Go Ice Skating In and Around Portland

If you're looking to try a new activity or wanting to experience some nostalgia from your childhood, plan a day to go ice skating at these Portland ice rinks.  The locations below include seasonal ice skating experiences and year-round ice rinks. All of the ice rinks have public skating, … [Read more...] about Where to Go Ice Skating In and Around Portland

Oregon State Parks Offers Discount on Annual Parking Permits

Give the gift of the outdoors and save this season! Oregon State Parks is offering a special discount on parking permits. Here's how you can save on an annual Oregon State Parks parking permit.  Oregon State Parks Discount Annual Parking Permits From December 1 through 31, get annual … [Read more...] about Oregon State Parks Offers Discount on Annual Parking Permits

2024 Christmas Tree Permits: Get a $5 Tree from Mt. Hood National Forest

Want to decorate with a beautiful, real Christmas tree without going over budget? Locals can get inexpensive Christmas tree permits and choose their own trees from Mt. Hood National Forest. Picking the perfect Christmas tree is a quintessential tradition. For many of us, it is one of the first … [Read more...] about 2024 Christmas Tree Permits: Get a $5 Tree from Mt. Hood National Forest

OMSI on Ice: Indoor Skating at the Museum

This holiday season, Portland’s iconic Oregon Museum of Science and Industry brings you OMSI on Ice indoor skating. OMSI On Ice transforms the museum’s auditorium into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring a unique synthetic ice rink, offering all the fun of traditional skating without the … [Read more...] about OMSI on Ice: Indoor Skating at the Museum

Portland Ski Swap: Gear Up for Winter Fun

Winter is just around the corner, and the Portland Ski Swap is the perfect place to get ready for the slopes. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder, or gearing up for your first trip to the mountain, this event offers a selection of equipment for everyone. Here's what you can expect … [Read more...] about Portland Ski Swap: Gear Up for Winter Fun

Halloween Skate: Get Discount Admission at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Make new spooky fun memories at the Lloyd Center Ice Rink this Halloween. Get discount admission during this special holiday event.   Did you know that the Lloyd Center Ice Rink made history when it first opened in 1960? It was the nation's first ice rink located inside a shopping … [Read more...] about Halloween Skate: Get Discount Admission at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Best Places to See Fall Colors in Portland

The crisp air, cloudy skies and intermittent rainstorms mark the changing of the season in Portland. As we transition from hot to cool weather, our city shines with pops of red, yellow, orange and gold around every corner. Fall colors in Portland reign supreme.  Starting in October, the … [Read more...] about Best Places to See Fall Colors in Portland

Dungeness Crabbing on Free Public Docks

King crab from Alaska gets a lot of supermarket shelf space, but remember we have some pretty plentiful pots of crustacean gold right here in the waters of Oregon. Not only is Dungeness crabbing from public docks super easy – it’s also free. No boat required. Spring for a shellfish license ($10 … [Read more...] about Dungeness Crabbing on Free Public Docks

2024 Estacada Lake Witches Paddle Boarding and Kayaking Event

Put on your best witchy costume and get ready to to haunt this local lake during the Estacada Lake Witches Paddle Boarding and Kayaking Event. Witches and warlocks are invited to trade in their broomsticks for paddles during the 4th annual event.  You also won't want to miss … [Read more...] about 2024 Estacada Lake Witches Paddle Boarding and Kayaking Event

The Best Scenic Drives for Fall Colors in Oregon

When it comes to beautiful fall foliage, you don't want to miss the brilliant colors throughout the state of Oregon.  There is no denying the natural beauty throughout Oregon. The fall is one of the most breathtaking times to explore the state. As summer fades into fall, deciduous trees … [Read more...] about The Best Scenic Drives for Fall Colors in Oregon

Open Archery Range at Trackers Portland

Learn a new skill during open archery range days at Trackers Portland. Trackers is a team of expert educators who connect kids and adults with real adventures in the natural world.  Here's how you can shoot your shot once a week at the organization's headquarters. Open Archery Range Days … [Read more...] about Open Archery Range at Trackers Portland

2024 Portland Goth Float

Gather with your fellow Goth community at the 10th annual Portland Goth Float. This annual event invites locals to a fun day floating the Clackamas River. Put on your best goth bathing suit and accessories for a one-of-a-kind day spent outdoors. Here are the details about the 2024 float. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Goth Float

Family Forest Days at Hoyt Arboretum

Take your family on a stroll through Portland's museum of trees. This summer, Hoyt Arboretum is hosting Family Forest Days.  This beautiful nature oasis features 2,300 species of trees and plants from around the world along 12 miles of trails. Hoyt Arboretum is free to visit with lots of … [Read more...] about Family Forest Days at Hoyt Arboretum

Forest Park 75th Anniversary Celebration

Celebrate community connections at this special nature escape right in the heart of Portland. The Forest Park 75th Anniversary Celebration hosts a full day of outdoor activities.  Enjoy a day of volunteer opportunities, group hikes, workshops, and other activities with your friends and … [Read more...] about Forest Park 75th Anniversary Celebration

Flash Waltz at Peninsula Park Rose Garden

Spend an evening dancing in one of Portland's iconic rose gardens during Flash Waltz. As the Rose City, Portland has many beautiful rose gardens that are completely free to visit. Summer events make these blooms even more special.  Here's how you can dance the night away at Peninsula Park … [Read more...] about Flash Waltz at Peninsula Park Rose Garden

GetOutPass Discount: Save 30% on Your Pass to 45+ Oregon Attractions

Sponsored post Get access to some of Portland’s best attractions for one discounted price with GetOutPass. Attend a Blazers game, build a terrarium and go on a pedal bike tour along with 45 other activities with one convenient pass.  Since 2018, GetOutPass has been on a mission to provide … [Read more...] about GetOutPass Discount: Save 30% on Your Pass to 45+ Oregon Attractions

Budget-Friendly Glamping in an RV Delivered to You

Some of the links in this post are special! When you make a purchase through our links, we might earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Sponsored by RVshare.com For those of us who define "roughing it" as packing our own road-trip food until we arrive at our hotel, camping has never held much appeal. "Glamping" in an RV, on the other hand, seems like a great compromise: Enjoy the beauties of nature without giving up hot showers, … [Read more...] about Budget-Friendly Glamping in an RV Delivered to You

The Big Float X at Waterfront Park

Bring your favorite floatie to the 10th and final year of The Big Float at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The Big Float is a celebration of the Willamette River.  The annual event benefits the Human Access Project, a local nonprofit that helps people connect with their river. Here are the … [Read more...] about The Big Float X at Waterfront Park

Chehalem Ridge Nature Park Grand Opening

A new nature park has opened in the Willamette Valley. Attend the grand opening this weekend and partake in fun family-friendly activities. Chehalem Ridge Nature Park, located in Gaston, has more than 1,260 acres with 10 miles of trails providing views of the Tualatin River Valley and the Coast … [Read more...] about Chehalem Ridge Nature Park Grand Opening

Dash for Doughnuts at the Fremont Fun Run

Enjoy a fun jog through the neighborhood and get a tasty treat for your achievement during the Fremont Fun Run.  The Beaumont Business Association is hosting a 3k fun run with obstacles through the Beaumont Village. This neighborhood's main drag is Fremont Street, which has a bunch of great … [Read more...] about Dash for Doughnuts at the Fremont Fun Run

National Park Week: Free Entrance Day and Virtual Activities

During National Park Week, April 16-24, 2022, you can explore our country's most stunning national parks, both in person and from home. The National Park Service is helping us connect with nature through a free entrance day and digital opportunities that bring the national parks to … [Read more...] about National Park Week: Free Entrance Day and Virtual Activities

Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park Grand Opening

A new nature park has opened in the heart of Oregon City. Attend the grand opening this weekend and partake in fun family-friendly activities. Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park is a 236-acre forested park featuring a multiuse trail system that provides more than 2 miles of walking paths and nearly … [Read more...] about Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park Grand Opening

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