Things To Do
CASCADE LOCKS, HOOD RIVER, & THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE
Here are some of the best tourist attractions, outdoor activities, and restaurants to hit during your stay in the Gorge!​
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Keep scrolling for things to do in the city of Portland and the rest of Oregon.
THE HOOD RIVER FRUIT LOOP
A scenic driving route through Hood River that includes 32 different fruit stands, country stores, wineries, breweries and flower fields. Here are a few of our favorites:
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Apple Valley Country Store
Draper Girls Country Farm
Grateful Vineyards​
Apple Valley Country Store
+Many More!
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MULTNOMAH FALLS
A beautiful 600 foot waterfall, located just 15 minutes from Cascade Locks. The falls can be enjoyed from ground level, a short walk to the observation bridge, or a steep 1.2 mile hike to the top. There is also the Multnomah Falls Lodge which has a restaurant and nice gift shop.
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During the summer, parking is very crowded so you may be required to book a timed entry parking pass ahead of time. These are just $2 and can be booked up to 14 days in advance (and if it's showing unavailable, more passes release 2 days before the date).
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Tours & Things to do around the falls
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MT HOOD RAILROAD
Train Rides, Trolley Tours, Rail Bike Tours and E-Bike Rentals
See the Gorge in a number of unique ways. The Mt Hood Railroad offers a 3 hour out-and-back train ride with a stop at the Fruit Company. Or take combination train and trolley tour where you get more scenic views and stops, including the Mount Hood Winery.
You can also peddle through Hood River on a 2.5 hour powered railbike tour or rent an E-Bike for self-guided exploration of the area.
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STERNWHEELER CRUISES
Located right in the town of Cascade Locks, the Sternwheeler is modern replica of the classic steam-powered paddle wheel boats that were common in Oregon in the 1850s. This ship offers a variety of sightseeing opportunities, including dinner, brunch, and sunset cruises.
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CROWN POINT VISTA HOUSE
Visit this historic site for one of the best views of the entire Columbia River Gorge. Located a few minutes off of I-84, this stop gives a scenic drive and one of the highest views you can that doesn't require any hiking.
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BONNEVILLE FISH HATCHERY
Relive Emily's school field trip glory days! Oregon's largest hatchery, Bonneville provides viewing ponds and feeding opportunities for several types of local fish including Rainbow Trout and White Sturgeon.
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HIKING
In addition to Multnomah Falls, here are a few of the MANY highly regarded hiking trails in the Columbia River Gorge. Some require passes and parking can get very crowded, so make sure to research before choosing any. All Trails is a good hiking resource, as is Friends of the Columbia Gorge and this local hiking guide.
Eagle Creek Trail - Out-and-Back - $5 Pass Required
Punch Bowl Falls
3.8 Miles
600 ft Elevation
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RESTAURANTS IN CASCADE LOCKS
Despite being a small town, Cascade Locks has 10+ local restaurant options to choose, so here are a few top recommendations:
Brewery with a broad menu and large variety of local beers. It is dog friendly and offers dedicated vegan, vegetarian and Gluten Free options!
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Cute little walk up burger stand with soft serve and other ice cream options.
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Another brewery offering great food and drink options with a good atmosphere and outdoor deck seating.
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A local, cozy spot in town for casual seafood offerings, like the highly rated fish n chips, smoked salmon, clam chowder and more.
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A fun little arcade with an assortment of classic games, drinks, and snack options.
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PORTLAND
PITTOCK MANSION
Built in 1914, Pittock Mansion is a historic house that tells the story of Portland’s transformation from pioneer town to modern, industrialized city through the history and legacy of one its most influential families.
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OREGON MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY
Explore science-fueled fun at Portland’s premier science museum! Spark the curiosity of visitors of all ages with interactive exhibits, submarine tours, planetarium shows, hands-on learning activities, science labs, and more.
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POWELL'S CITY OF BOOK
Powell’s Books on Burnside Street, better known as the City of Books, occupies four stories on a full city block in downtown Portland’s Pearl District, making it the largest independent bookstore in the world!
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MCMENAMINS EDGEFIELD
For the last several decades, McMenamins has been salvaging historic building and turning them into hotels, restaurants, and breweries. Edgefield is their most iconic location with a unique charm that runs throughout the property. Originally built as a county poor farm in 1910, this location is now home to a hotel, restaurant, concert venue, movie theater, golf course and spa.
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WASHINGTON PARK
Just outside of Downtown, Washington Park is one of Portland's most densely packed attractions. On top of usual staples like playgrounds, walking trails, tennis courts and picnic areas, the park includes other activities like:
International Rose Test Garden
Hoyt Arboretum
Oregeon Zoo
Portland Japanese Garden
World Forestry Center Discovery Museum
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END OF THE OREGON TRAIL INTERPRETIVE CENTER
The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center offers the “Oregon’s First Peoples” and “Bound for Oregon” films, and exciting and interactive exhibits that include authentic Oregon Trail era activities and games. Visitors can pack their own wagon, dress up, make butter, and dip their own candles! Outside the Interpretive Center, enjoy the heritage garden and Abernethy Green.
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ICONIC FOOD & DRINKS
Original locations for some of Portland's iconic brands
Famous for it's unique flavors and wild creations, this iconic original location in Old Town is what started this national phenomenon.
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While this coffee can now be purchased across the world, this original location in Southeast continues to epitomize the vibe of the local Portland coffee scene.
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