Events

What to Do in Oregon in July

Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, a dory celebration in Pacific City, orchestral music on the coast, and more

06/30/2023 By Michelle Harris, Margaret Seiler, and Sam Stites

Alpine Adventures

Don't Miss Two Cascades Trips, Opening This Week

Now's the time for excursions into two mountain regions that aren't accessible during snowy months or wildfire season. McKenzie Pass and Crater Lake boat tours just opened this week.

06/29/2023 By Sam Stites

Pool Party

Renting a Private Pool in Portland Has Never Been Swimpler

Swimply has turned Portland into a hotbed for backyard pool and hot tub rentals, from saltwater pools on hilltop hobby farms to backyard hangs.

06/22/2023 By Sam Stites

Partisan Divide

Who Won the Walkout in the Oregon Legislature?

Republicans in the Oregon Senate missed 43 days in a protest of several bills, on topics including abortion access, gender-affirming care, and gun control. Democrats and Republicans reached agreement late last week.

06/20/2023 By Sam Stites

Get Out

The 2023 Swim Hole Challenge: Which Is Your New Favorite?

We searched far and wide around Portland for the best swimming holes to delight water lovers like you, from families to adventurers to birthday-suit enthusiasts. We challenge you to visit three new ones this summer.

06/20/2023 By Benjamin Tepler, Rachel Ritchie, Margaret Seiler, Caleb Diehl, Kasey Cordell, and Sam Stites

Oregon Coast

You Want to See the 2023 Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest Winners

Beachgoers were treated to gravity-defying sand art at the annual event on the Oregon Coast, where some teams built for five hours.

06/16/2023 By Sam Stites

Wildlife

Unusual Cougar Sightings Add Nerves to Summer Hikes

Oregon wildlife officials issue a warning, reminding us that Oregon is cougar and bear country.

06/14/2023 By Sam Stites

Rivers

It's Time For You to Meet the Magical Lower Deschutes River

From its beginnings high up near Mount Bachelor to where it flows into the Columbia River, Central Oregon's Deschutes River is a special place.

06/08/2023 By Sam Stites and Chad Brown

Adventure

Your Best Ever White Water Trip on the Lower Deschutes

Rafting on the Lower Deschutes River is an Oregon rite of passage, just 2 hours from Portland. A former rafting guide tells us the outfitters, guides, and rapids to know.

06/08/2023 By Sam Stites

Getaways

Going Luxe on Lodging Along the Lower Deschutes

Staying on the Deschutes River doesn’t have to be a grimy and bug-filled experience, thanks to luxurious and charming spots like these.

06/08/2023 By Sam Stites

Wildfire

New York Experiences Wildfire Smoke, Can’t Handle It

Portlanders are puzzled by East Coasters' response to poor air quality, which is their annual reality.

06/07/2023 By Sam Stites

Summer Fun

An Incomplete Guide to Portland’s Biggest Summer 2023 Concerts and Events

From Pedalpalooza to Pickathon, Diana Ross to Diana Krall, Shakespeare to Samantha Bee, a roundup of what's happening in Portland, Oregon, this summer.

06/01/2023 By Margaret Seiler and Sam Stites

Water Safety

Heading to a Swim Hole? It Might Not Be Safe Right Now

Warm spring weather doesn't mean it's time to hit your river spot.

05/30/2023 By Sam Stites

Columbia Gorge

Timed-Entry Permits Are Back at Multnomah Falls

Visitors to Oregon's tallest waterfall will again need to obtain a timed-entry permit beginning May 26.

05/22/2023 By Sam Stites

Stay & Play

Walk in the Footsteps of Giants at Chambers Bay Golf Course

In just 16 short years, this public course on the banks of the Puget Sound has cemented its place in golf history as one of the nation’s great courses.

05/16/2023 By Sam Stites

Opt Outside

Outdoor Beer Collaborations We're Loving Right Now

Including partnerships with Northwest Trail Alliance and Hopworks Brewery, Oregon Zoo and Portland Cider Company, and 10 Barrel and Poler.

05/12/2023 By Sam Stites

#VanLife

6 Signs You Should Try Van Life

Does the open road call your name? Do crowded campgrounds give you the ick? You might be a perfect candidate for van living.

05/05/2023 By Sam Stites Illustrations by tara jacoby

#VanLife

Tips for First-Time Camper Van Buyers

How to land the camper van or RV of your dreams, with advice from Axis Vehicle Outfitters, GoCamp, and Overland Van Project.

05/05/2023 By Sam Stites

Events

What to Do in Oregon in May

Learn about UFOs and close encounters in McMinnville, race between breweries in Bend, celebrate Oregon wine in award-winning viticulture regions, and ride a fat-tire bike in Cannon Beach.

04/28/2023 By Sam Stites, Katherine Chew Hamilton, Michelle Harris, and Margaret Seiler

Summer Fun

Floating Hot Tubs Offer Novel Way to Get Out on the Willamette River

Rentable floating hot tubs from Yacht Tubs offer novel way to relax on the river, with no boating license required.

04/26/2023 By Sam Stites