Portland Fall Activity Guide
As temperatures start to shift and we take our last summer vacation, it is time to pull out the fall decorations! Whether you are looking for the nearest pumpkin patch, festival, or are excited to hike in cooler temperatures, there are plenty of things to do in the Portland area. We’ve compiled an activity guide of the best things to do this fall . . . how many will you check off of your list?!
Portland Greek Festival
Initially starting in 1952 to help pay the mortgage on their Greek Orthodox Church, the Portland Greek Festival has become one of the largest cultural festivals in the city. The 69th annual festival will be held from September 30th until October 2nd and is jam packed with different events and activities. Including Greek dances, foods, and tours of the church, the festival allows for participants to be immersed into Greek culture while supporting community outreach.
Spirit of Halloweentown
For anyone who looks forward to fall because of Halloween, the movie Halloweentown is surely one of their seasonal favorites. Spirit of Halloweentown is a real town in St. Helens, Oregon where you can experience the magic of the movie through different attractions. The weekends are when Halloweentown comes alive, making it a perfect family event between September 17th and October 31st.
The Columbia River Gorge
One of the most popular fall activities is hiking, and anyone near the Portland area is especially fortunate with their close access to the Columbia River Gorge. The gorge offers plenty of hiking and biking trails, ranging from shorter routes for beginners to extensive paths for novice outdoorsmen/women. Between the fall foliage and over 90 waterfalls spaced throughout the trails, the Columbia River Gorge will not disappoint!
Topaz Farm
If you’re looking for the ultimate fall destination, look no farther than Topaz Farm on Sauvie Island! Topaz Farm checks every fall activity off the list and is a one stop shop with its pumpkin patch, corn mazes, sunflower field, hayrides, and more! Once you’ve had an activity filled day, be sure to check out the on-site market for some delicious fall treats to take home.
Portland Tattoo Expo
If you’re not necessarily looking for a fall themed activity, there are other options! The Portland Tattoo Expo has occurred every fall since 2008. With some of the most well known tattoo artists in attendance, it’s a great place to observe these artists in their element and even to get a tattoo of your own. There are also a variety of competitions throughout the weekend whether you’re arriving with a freshly healed tattoo or choose to get one at the convention!
The Fear PDX Haunted House
For the thrill seekers, the ultimate fall activity is a visit to The Fear PDX Haunted House. This is no ordinary haunted house, it’s a whole destination! Offering 8 different haunted attractions, you can experience endless amounts of fear and excitement. Ranging from an abandoned factory, a carnival with killer clowns, to flesh eating zombies and more - they dare you to say you aren’t afraid!
Stay in a Yurt in Oregon State Park
Maybe you want to enjoy the fall foliage beyond just a hike or maybe you camp regularly throughout the summer, but want something different as the season is changing? Rent a yurt this autumn in one of the Oregon State Parks! Every yurt is equipped with sleeping and kitchen furniture, has heating and electricity, as well as kitchenettes and private bathrooms in the deluxe options. Plus, pets are welcome so your furry family members can join in on the fun too!
Portland Film Festival
Another great annual event that occurs every fall, is the Portland Film Festival. Originating in 2012, it has been recognized as one of the best film festivals. The festival is known for celebrating storytelling by highlighting filmmakers and their audiences. Whether you are part of the filmmaking community or looking to learn something, it is a great event for everyone!
Amaterra Winery
If you’re looking for an exceptional winery, but don’t want to travel too far out of town then be sure to check out Amaterra Winery! Offering a variety of memberships, including a social club, this could be a great place to frequent throughout the fall season. Aside from a beautiful establishment, Amaterra also offers breathtaking views year round from their terrace. You won’t want to miss out on the golden hues surrounding the winery throughout Autumn and into the beginning of winter.
Laser Tag
Whether you’re looking for family activities, things to do with friends, or your significant other - there is one more place worth mentioning, especially if you’ve already checked off most of the other fall events in Portland. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry offers a plethora of things to do throughout the fall. Some of the events include movie showings including Marvel and Top Gun, Starry Nights Live, OMSI After Dark (21+), and even themed laser tag such as Stranger Things!