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The Mile High City is loaded with free activities for budget travelers! Enjoy the culture, environment, and landmarks of this great city without worrying about spending a fortune.

1 – Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

This beautiful park is known for its red sandstone boulders and gorgeous views. Built into the landscape is the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater, a world famous music venue nestled in the stony environment. Walk, bike, or hike through this remarkable park!

2 – Dinosaur Ridge

Just west of Denver rests one of the most important dinosaur fossil excavation sites in the country. Dinosaur Ridge features an exhibit hall which elucidates the many dinosaurs which have been discovered there. Walk through this Historic Landmark and learn about the animal and plant life which inhabited the area in the Jurassic and today.

3 – Critical Mass Denver

Like hundreds of metropolitans in the world, Denver is home to a monthly Critical Mass Bike Ride! Cyclists of all ages meet together and partake in a leaderless, free-spirited romp through the city. If you’ve never been on a Critical Mass before, the beautiful landscape of Denver is a great place to start; if you’re a veteran rider, every city is a new experience! Riders meet in Civic Center Park at 5:30 on the last Friday of every month.

4 – Denver Trails

Bring or rent a bike and hit Denver’s incredible array or biking trails! Denver has over 850 miles of off-street bike trails which are great for biking, walking, or jogging. The city is also home to a huge system of urban trails, including some along Cherry Creek and Platte River. Enjoy the beautiful environment, get some exercise, and explore the area!

5 – United States Mint

Want to see where our money comes from? Denver is home to one of the US Mint’s four coin-producing facilities. The building is only open to tours, so reserve yours ahead of time to guarantee a spot.

6 – State Capitol

If you want to see the center of Colorado’s state government, head over to the State Capitol, which houses the State Assembly and Senate. Visit during the legislative session and see lawmakers in action, or just admire the beautiful architecture. The building is modeled after the US State Capitol and contains portraits of every US President.

7 – Coors Brewery

Denver is home to the world’s largest single-sight brewery! Coors provides factory tours and beer-tasting, so be pay this landmark a visit!

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Montreal is the largest francophone city in North America and the cultural capital of Quebec. With its fine dining, copious beaches, and beautiful natural scenery, it’s also one of the top tourist destinations in all of Canada. For those looking some save money, Montreal has options galore: several free, outdoor festivals, 14 municipal parks, free museums, and other cultural attractions. If you’re looking to experience a truly foreign city without spending a fortune or traveling too far, Montreal is la ville pour vous!

1. Parc Jean Drapeau

One of the city’s many public parks, Jean Drapeau is located on the islands of Sainte-Hélène and Notre-Dame. As such, it is the site of a number of great beaches. It is also the site of some displayed artwork, a public pool, the magnificent Biosphere from 1967’s World Expo, and a number of other attractions. It’s easy to make a day out of a visit to this beautiful, multifaceted park!

2. Festival International de Jazz de Montreal

This annual festival brings some of the best names in jazz from around the world to play for free in Montreal’s streets. Music ranges in genre, so non-jazz-fans can enjoy the show too. If you missed this year’s event, check out the city’s other festivals, including FrancoFollies and the Just for Laughs Festival.

3. Redpath Museum

McGill’s natural history museum is open to the public free of charge. Marvel at its permanent collection which includes dinosaur remains, mineral exhibits, and Egyptian mummies. Temporary exhibits analyze Charles Darwin’s relationship with McGill and the anatomically accurate glass-sculptures by the Blaschka family.

4. Parc du Mont-Royal

The short hike up 760-foot Mont-Royal affords visitors one of the best views Montreal has to offer, as well as a great way to get some outdoor exercise without leaving the city. The layout of the park was designed by Frederick Law Olmstead and perfectly complements the natural landscape. Right beside the mountain is Mont-Royal cemetery, where many famous Montrealers are buried. Visit both and take in Canada’s history and nature at the same time!

5. Centre Canadien du Architecture

If you have an interest in architecture, the Centre Canadien du Architecture is a must-visit. Current exhibits focus on urban agriculture, Martin Kemp, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s photography. Admission is free on Thursdays from 5:30 to 9 PM.

6. Musée des maîtres et artisans du Québec

If you’re interested in the artistic history of Quebec, be sure to visit this great museum! Its holdings, over 6,000 strong, chronicle the province’s French-Canadian heritage through its art, ranging from woodwork and paintings to sculpture and dress. Special exhibitions throughout 2010 focus on the history of glass art. Admission to the museum is free on Wednesdays. If you visit on a weekend or holiday instead, use public transportation and your ticket will bring you a 10% discount.

7. Musée des beaux-arts de Montreal

The main gallery of this fantastic art museum is open with free admission every day. Its permanent collection includes European artwork since the Middle Ages, archaeological pieces from the Mediterranean, Inuit art, and a comprehensive collection of Canadian artwork.

8. Musée de Lachine

The outdoor exhibit of this art museum, conveniently located along the walking and biking trail near Louis Lake and Lachine Canal, is open for free every day! Its holdings include over 50 sculptural works by artists from Quebec and around the world. In September and October the museum also hosts outdoor archaeological workshops.

9. Basilique Notre-Dame

Canada’s first Gothic-revival style cathedral is also one of Montreal’s greatest architectural attractions. It contains a 100-year-old organ with just under 7,000 pipes, its walls are lined with incredible religious sculpture, and its windows are ordained with brilliant stain glass artwork. There’s an entrance fee to simply enter the building, but attending a service is free. If you want to attend mass during your visit, stop at this cathedral and marvel at its stunning interior.

10. Centre Bouddhiste Kankala

If you want to improve your meditation or let your mind relax after the stresses of vacation, visit this Buddhist center. Free guided meditation sessions occur in both French and English throughout the summer; check their website for details.

11. Sunday-@-the-Segal

Every Sunday at 11 AM, Centre Segal, one of Montreal’s premier theaters, hosts a free lecture on the performing arts. Previous subjects have included jazz, Yiddish theatre, and Harry Houdini.

12. Musée McCord

This museum chronicles the social and material history of Quebec and Canada. McCord holds over 1 million historic photographs and thousands of other artifacts. A current exhibit focuses on the Irish immigrant experience in Quebec. Starting June 30, admission will be free from 5 to 9 PM on Wednesdays.

13. Tango Libre
This dance school and studio offers free beginner lessons in tango at multiple locations. St. Viateur Park hosts lessons Sunday evenings in July and August, while the Verdun bureau offers lessons on Wednesdays throughout the summer.

Though the Olympics are over, Canada’s third-largest city is still a thriving metropolis and tourist destination. Moreover, its possible to enjoy Vancouver without spending a fortune. With this list, you can take advantage of the city’s diverse culture and natural environment without spending a thing.

1. Stanley Park

This 1,000-acre park, just outside of downtown Vancouver, if frequently cited as one of the best urban parks in North America. In addition to its thousands of Coniferous and Deciduous trees, Stanley Park has a great Pacific coast, several freshwater lakes, and Shakespeare Park – an arboretum which features the trees named in Shakespeare’s plays. There are also a number of man-made attractions in the park, including the Air India Memorial, the 9 O’Clock Gun and the Garden of Remembrance.

2. Granville Island

This island, once a site of industrial plants, has redefined itself as a culturally vibrant community filled with galleries, restaurants, cafes, theaters, and a famous public market. Take the Aquabus Ferry, which, unfortunately, comes with a $5 price tag, and arrive at this island escape right in the middle of the city.

3. Grouse Grind

If you really want to get a workout during your trip, take this 1.8 mile hike up Grouse Mountain. Though the mountain is only 4,000 ft high, it is particularly grueling due to the 30% gradient most of the way up. If you make it up and find yourself exhausted, there’s a gondola to bring you back down to earth.

4. Gordon Macmillan Southern Observatory

Adjacent to the Macmillan Space Center, this observatory offers free use of its Cassegrain telescope Thursday and Friday nights. If the sky is clear be sure to check out this free glimpse into the cosmos!

5. Queen Elizabeth Park

This 130-acre park, practically in the center of the city, is known for being the tallest point in Vancouver. Queen Elizabeth Park has both an arboretum, housing thousands of trees, and a number of recreational facilities, including golf, tennis, and lawn bowling. Whatever you want out of your Vancouver vacation, this park will make a great stop.

6. Italian Movie Nights

Celebrate Vancouver’s Italian heritage at the Italian Culture Center, which hosts a free movie night every other Monday. Each film is shown in its original Italian with English subtitles and a lecture afterward by the center’s film expert.

7. Lynn Canyon Ecology Center

Learn about Vancouver’s temperate rainforest environment at the Lynn Canyon Ecology Center! The kids will love the center’s exhibits and the play area in back.

8. Dr. Sun Yat Sen Park

Though there’s an admission price to get into Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden, the adjacent park is always free of charge. Enjoy the Chinese-style garden and relax by the park’s pond. The park is named after Sun Yat Sen, a Nationalist Chinese leader who thrice stayed in Vancouver during the Chinese Civil War.

9. Christ Church Cathedral

This Gothic-revival building is one of Vancouver’s most impressive religious buildings. Constructed in 1889, it was later given beautiful stain-glass windows to commemorate Canada’s fallen during the World Wars. The church is open for visitation throughout the week, so you can attend a service, listen to a free choir concert, go on a guided tour, or wander the premises at your own pace.

10. Lighthouse Park
This popular public park encompasses 185 acres of Vancouver rainforest and a beautiful shore-front. Hike along the park’s many trails or picnic by Point Atkinson Lighthouse. The park is located in West Vancouver, just outside of Vancouver proper.

The Lake Tahoe region is home to beaches, hiking trails, spectacular views, and other attractions which can be enjoyed free of charge! If you’re looking to save money on your next vacation, Lake Tahoe is always an outstanding option!

1. Tahoe Rim Trail

If you came to Lake Tahoe to get some exercise and explore the surroundings, the Tahoe Rim Trail is a must! The trail is over 165 miles, winding through six counties in both California and Nevada. The trail offers spectacular views for hikers, bikers, and equestrians alike. There are many trailheads to start from around the Tahoe-region.

2. D.L. Bliss State Park

The California side of the lake is home to this beautiful and historic state park. With over 1,800 acres of natural beauty, D.L. Bliss contains a wide array of trees and wildlife. It is also home to Rubicon Point Light – the highest-elevation lighthouse in the US. Spend the day hiking and appreciating this great park!

3. Stream Profile Chamber

One of the most beautiful and unique nature walks Lake Tahoe has to offer is the Stream Profile Chamber. Start at Taylor Creek Visitor’s Center and walk into a profile chamber. The chamber contains a huge window through which marine life can be viewed in their natural habitat. The fish differ throughout the year but are always a sight to behold.

4. Tallac Historic Site

This site, which used to be a three-estate retreat for the wealthy, is now a publicly maintained, free museum. Explore the lavish buildings and then take a dip in the lake.

5. Eagle Falls Hike

This quarter mile hike brings travelers through the Sierra Nevadas to a beautiful view of Lake Tahoe. If you’re feeling up to it, the trail continues all the way to Eagle Lake.

6. Stateline Fire Lookout

A short climb up to this site will reward visitors with one of the most beautiful views Lake Tahoe has to offer. The area is relatively natural, with minimal signs of human development. This adds to the beauty of the spot but be sure to ask a tourist guide for directions, as it can be hard to find.

7. Eagle Lake

Just west of Lake Tahoe is Eagle Lake – a smaller, less developed but very beautiful site. A mile-long hike which starts near Emerald Bay takes visitors through beautiful wilderness before they arrive at this destination. Great place to swim, picnic, explore, or just relax.

Canada’s largest city is famously open to foreigners, so it makes sense that it would have so many options which don’t cost a cent. Explore the city’s many public areas, marvel at its architecture, appreciate its artwork, and stare through its telescopes. No matter your budget, Toronto has the experience for you!

1. Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art

This museum, which offers free admission all the time, features over 400 pieces by over 150 Canadian artists. Its current exhibition, named Empire of Dreams, studies artists who look at the way human architecture interacts with the natural environment. There’s no place better (or cheaper) place to gain an appreciation of Canada’s distinct artistic voice.

2. Ireland Park

This municipal park commemorates the thousands of Irish who fled their homeland during the potato famine from 1845 to 1852. The park features a series of sculptures named “Arrival” by Rowan Gillespie and a wall inscribed with the names of Torontonians who died to help the Irish immigrants.

3. Toronto Free Gallery

This unique, not-for-profit gallery is an open forum for any artist wishing to communicate a cultural, urban, or environmental message. Come and experience one of the many individual or collaborative pieces which have been on exhibit in this progressive venue.

4. Allan Gardens Conservatory

This 4,900 square meter park includes both an outdoor garden and six greenhouses with flowers from around the world. The park is also home to a wide array of urban wildlife, include several species of squirrels and falcons. Admission is free, so get outside and learn about the conservatory’s diverse array of plant and animal life.

5. York University Observatory

Come to York University on Wednesday nights and pierce the night sky with two state-of-the-art telescopes. The observatory is open for free to the public from 9 PM to 11 PM every Wednesday night, as well as on certain special events.

6. Adrenaline Rush at Yonge and Dundas Square

Head over to Yonge and Dundas Square to catch an outdoor double-feature. This summer’s films include the original and remake of Ocean’s 11 and The Italian Job.

7. Riverdale Farm

This publicly-owned 7.5-acre farm contains a number of hiking trails, a wading pool, a vegetable garden, and a number of friendly animals. Come any time to enjoy the space, or on Tuesday afternoons to shop at the farmers market.

8. Distillery District

This recently-redeveloped neighborhood contains the largest collection of Victorian-era houses in North America. Walk along the cobblestone streets and marvel at the many historic buildings which line it, including the old distillery which lent the neighborhood its name. There are also a number of stores and cafes for shopping and eating.

9. Toronto Music Garden

This beautiful garden, designed in part by Yo-Yo Ma, was inspired by Bach’s Suites for Unaccompanied Cello. With that kind of musical heritage, it’s only fitting that it should be a venue for great music today. Explore both the man-made and natural elements of the park’s beauty while enjoying a free concert this summer.

Next time you visit America’s Second City, leave your wallet at home! Well, that might be drastic, but Chicago has loads of entertainment options designed for budget travelers! With this list, you can walk through Grant Park, observe fine art and architecture, and even learn about surgical sciences without spending a thing.

1. Grant Park

Chicago’s 319-acre Grant Park is filled with cultural and historic landmarks. Marvel at the iconic Buckingham Fountain: a stunning fountain display which represents Lake Michigan. Walk through the sculptures at Agora: a display of 106 headless and armless iron sculptures designed by Polish artist Magdalena Abakanowicz. Or appreciate the architecture at Millennium Park. Known as Chicago’s Front Door, due to its location in the city, Grant park is a must see for anyone who wants to experience Chicago!

2. Art Institute of Chicago

In addition to being Chicago’s largest art museum, the Art Institute of Chicago is the second largest art museum in America! Its comprehensive collection of fine art includes painting, sculpture, photography, and textiles from around the world. The museum’s holdings include one of the largest collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art in the world. Admission is free on Thursdays, from 5 to 8 PM.

3. Museum of Contemporary Photography

Come visit the only photography museum in the Midwest! Its permanent collection holds over 9,000 photos and photography-related exhibits from around the world. Check the museum’s current exhibit, which showcases the photographic work of Chicago’s youth.

4. Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows

Smith Museum is America’s first museum dedicated exclusively to stained glass windows. The museum’s 800 ft.-long series of galleries displays 150 beautiful pieces of stained glass art, both religious and secular. Discover this beautiful, underappreciated medium of art at this free museum!

5. International Museum of Surgical Sciences

This unique museum deals with the history and science of surgery. Its four floors are filled with artifacts, paintings and sculptures covering subjects such as nursing, Japanese surgeons, orthopedics, polio, and Latin American medicine. Admission is free every Tuesday.

6. Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a center for art, music, and architectural design. The 24.5-acre park contains works of architectural wonder by Frank Gehry and Jaume Plensa. Come Mondays at noon to enjoy a free concert, or anytime to take in the beautiful environment and architecture.

7. Chicago Children’s Museum

Let the kids have some fun at this educational museum! Adults and children alike will love the dinosaur exhibit, children’s art gallery and water playground. Admission in free on the first Sunday of the month for children under 15.

8. Spertus Institute

The Spertus Museum of Jewish studies is Chicago’s foremost center of Jewish culture. The gallery includes images and sculptures related to Jewish life. The Institute’s new building is a beautiful, environmentally friendly design made of 726 different-shaped glass pieces. Admission is free through the month of June.

9. Archicenter

Interested in architecture? This unique museum chronicles the past and present of Chicago’s architecture and neighborhoods. Archicenter is owned and operated by the Chicago Architecture Foundation. The center also gives tours and hosts various lectures and educational programs.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s beautiful resort city, draws millions of tourists with its beauty and climate. Though not known as a destination for budget travelers, the city boasts a number of activities that can be enjoyed at no cost! Visit the beach, hear live music, learn about history, and even visit an alligator park without spending a dime!

1 – Free Beaches

Swim, sunbathe, and explore Myrtle Beach’s beautiful namesake beaches! There are a number of spots to visit which are free of charge. Bring the whole family to enjoy Myrtle Beach’s natural beauty!

2- Summer Concert Series in McLean Park

On the third Friday of every month, visit McLean Park for a free evening concert! Performers of various genres perform from 7 to 9 PM. Bring a picnic and make the most out of your Friday night!

3 – Alligator Adventure

Visit Myrtle Beach’s Barefoot Landing and check out this unique wilderness reserve! Alligator Adventure houses 800 alligators, ranging in length from 8 inches to 13 feet. Watch the feeding shows and presentations, or just idle through the park at your own pace.

4 – South Carolina Hall of Fame

This museum honors the many individuals who have contributed to the unique culture and history of the Palmetto State. Learn about figures as disperse as Andrew Jackson, Dizzy Gillespie, and Strom Thurmond.

5 – Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum

One of the finest art museums in the Carolinas, this museum has a small but diverse collection and many changing exhibitions. Explore the world of Southern painting, 17th century cartography, and quilt artwork.

6 – Vareen Memorial Park and Gardens

This well-hidden park traverses a number of salt marshes and islands. Walk along the wooden pathways and enjoy the beautiful views of this unique environment.

7 – Thomas Kinkade Gallery

The famous American painter Thomas Kinkade is known for his beautiful, idyllic settings and stunning use of light. His work is the displayed at this outdoor gallery.

8 – Warbird Park

Visit this park and honor the men and women from Myrtle Beach who have served in the nation’s air force. Several military craft and a runway are on display. The park also has paved bike paths, so get some exercise and learn about the city’s history at the same time!

When one thinks of a trip to Orlando, they probably conjure up images of incredible theme parks, expensive dining, and luxurious lodgings. Orlando, has other faces, however; it’s home to a number of art galleries and museums, public nature reserves, and miscellaneous sites. This list covers just a few of the many free things to do in this great city. Whether you’re going on a budget or just want a way to break up your Universal/Disney trip without adding to the bill, Orlando has options for you!

1. Kelly Park

With a $1 entrance fee, seeing the rock springs at Kelly Park may not technically be free, but, given the beautiful sights which lay in this park, it’s an incredible bargain! This reserve offers swimming and tubing in a scenic, wooded area, packed with flora and fauna. Surrounding the springs is a boardwalk and picnic area for drying off and eating.

2. Big Tree Park

Witness astonishing cypress tree and this wilderness preserve. Among its many trees is “The Senator”, a 38 meter-high cypress estimated at 3,500 years old. The park is also full of picnic tables, so bring a lunch and make an afternoon of your visit!

3. Fleaworld and Funworld

Just North of Orlando are two of the largest flea markets in the country. Come and shop through bargain items from thousands of vendors while enjoying free entertainment, including acrobatics, circus performers, and live animals. Both are open during the weekends.

4. Zulu Exclusive Gallery

This unique gallery displays contemporary and ancient art Africa, including Zulu and Shona pieces. Learn about the distinct and underappreciated art from the continent of Africa!

5. Albin Polasek Sculpture Garden

Head to Winter Park and explore the works of famed sculptor Albin Polasek! The adjoining museum is closed for the summer, but you can the sculpture garden all year round free of charge!

6. Harry P. Leu Gardens

In addition to holding the largest rose garden in the state of Florida, this beautiful park contains a tropical steam garden, a butterfly garden, and palm, bamboo and cycad gardens. In addition to these diverse landscapes the grounds contains a museum and often functions as an art venue. Admission is free on the first Monday of each month, so get outside and visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens on your next trip.

7. Grand Bohemian Art Gallery

Even if you can’t afford the luxurious Grand Bohemian Hotel, you can check out their art holdings free of charge. The hotel has a diverse collection of paintings, jewelry, and art glass.

8. Peabody Ducks

The sumptuous Peabody hotel is home to a one-of-a-kind occurrence: every morning, a group of ducks, hens, and drakes descend from their suite in a special elevator and waddle to the hotel’s fountain. In the evening, the procession is reversed. Bring the kids to witness this unique, adorable spectacle.

9. Keila Glassworks Gallery

Award winning glassblower Charles Keila has a free gallery and public studio in the Dr. Phillips building. Check out this unique artist and learn about the art of glassblowing!

10. Cornell Fine Arts Museum

Students and children get in free at this fine arts museum, which houses works from around the world, dating from antiquity to the present day. Discover Native American artwork, Middle Eastern artifacts, bronze sculptures, and Renaissance pieces such as Rosselli’s Madonna and Child Enthrone.

11. Disney’s Boardwalk

Regardless of whether you came to visit Orlando’s famous parks, any visitor can check out Disney’s Boardwalk for free. If its many restaurants and nightclubs are out of your price range, you can still appreciate the street performers, ranging from musicians to magicians.

12. Spook Hill

An old Seminole legend has it that their chief Cufcowellax killed a gator which had been terrorizing their village. Their legendary struggle led to the creation of a small lake, Ticowa, which was sacred to the tribe. Since white settlers repopulated the land people have noticed that the forces seem to draw them the nearby hill, rather than down. Put your car in neutral on this mysterious hill and see if the legend of Spook Hill is true!

Los Angeles has plenty of options for budget travelers! Visit museums, listen to music, glimpse into outer space, and visit cultural attractions without even opening your wallet! Whatever you’re looking for, the Entertainment Capital of the World has something for you!

1. Fowler Museum at UCLA

The Fowler Museum holds 150,000 artistic and 600,000 archaeological pieces from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and Latin and pre-Columbian America. Explore the arts, clothing, and lifestyles of diverse groups from around the world!

2. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Over 2,000 artists from film, theatre, television and music have been immortalized with a brass, terrazzo star on Hollywood Boulevard. Walk along the Walk of Fame and pay homage to the many stars who’ve defined the culture of LA and America.

3. Griffith Observatory

Los Angeles’ famous Griffith observatory is one of the country’s foremost public observatories. Check out the astronomy museum and look through the Zeiss telescope to see deep into outer space, all for free! Sitting 1,134 feet above sea level, Griffith is visible from most of the city.

4. La Brea Tar Pits

Explore one of the country’s most famous fossil sites at the La Brea Tar Pits. This site saw the discovery of thousands of fossilized bones from 400 species of animals, including giant sloths and wooly mammoths.

5. California Science Center

Los Angeles’ science museum immerses visitors in scientific subjects such as space travel, ecosystems, and basic life processes. The whole family will find something to suit their interest at this diverse collection of science exhibits! The Center also houses a seven-story IMAX theatre, though there is an admission cost for screenings.

6. Farmer’s Market

Not only is LA’s original farmers market a great place to shop for local foods, but through the summer it doubles as a music venue! Come Thursdays and Fridays to enjoy some the city’s best jazz, swing, and Latin music.

7. Hollywood Sign

This immortal sign is the most recognizable symbol of Los Angeles. Though the site itself is closed to the public, there are several great viewing areas, including Beachwood Canyon and Gower Boulevard. No trip to LA is complete without a good look at this national landmark.

8. Banning Museum

This museum, a beautiful Greek revival building, is former home of Phineas Banning, father of the Los Angeles harbor. It currently houses a wide range of American art and artifacts, from dolls and fans to furniture and carriages.

9. Griffith Park

With over 4,000 acres, LA’s Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Go hiking, biking or running through wooded trails, or check out the park’s golf courses, horse rides, and train rides.

Oregon’s largest city is famous for its roses, breweries, and environmental friendliness. If those weren’t reasons enough to visit, it also has plenty of options for budget travelers! Visit beautiful parks, go for a bike ride, and look through one of the world’s largest bookstores!

1. Washington Park

This 400-acre park is home to the Portland Children’s Museum, Hoyt Arboretum, Oregon Zoo, and the International Rose Test Garden. In addition, Washington Park contains the Portland Japanese Garden: an authentic Japanese garden composed of five different garden styles. Spend the afternoon enjoying all the natural beauty that Washington Park has to offer!

2. Powell’s City of Books

Taking up an entire city block, Powell’s City of Books is one of the largest independent bookstores in the world. The bookstore holds over 4 million books, buying an additional 3,000 per day. While you’re perusing the shelves, check out the store’s built-in art gallery.

3. Pioneer Courthouse Square

Host to over 300 events per year, Pioneer Courthouse Square is the most visited place in the city of Portland. Events this summer include the Festival of the Flowers, farmer’s markets, and meditation instruction. Whatever is going on during your visit, stop by the Square and discover what has been called one of the best public spaces in the world!

4. Forest Park

Oregon’s 5,000 acre Forest Park is the largest urban park in the United States. Hike, bike, or run through the 50 miles of trails that cut through the park.

5. Rose City Critical Mass

Like hundreds of other cities around the world, Portland hosts a Critical Mass Bike Ride on the last Friday of every month. This spontaneous bike ride takes hundreds of cyclists on a destination-less ride through downtown Portland. Bring your bike and participate in this unforgettable event!

6. International Rose Test Garden

Due to its climate, Portland has long been a major site of rose production. The International Rose Test Garden functions as both a traditional garden and a test site for the breeding of hybrid roses. Come and admire the 7,000 roses of 550 varieties at the oldest rose test garden in the United States!

7. Hoyt Arboretum

Take a break from the city and explore the natural beauty of Hoyt Arboretum! The arboretum holds over 1,000 species of trees from around the world. Twelve miles of trails go through the grounds, so whether you want to learn about trees or get some exercise, Hoyt Arboretum is the place for you!

8. Multnomah Falls

Just outside of Portland lies this stunning, scenic waterfall. With a 620-foot drop, Multnomah is the second tallest year-round waterfall in the country.