Portland, Oregon, is a city that seems to sit at the crossroads of nature, culture, and good food. Its proximity to iconic landscapes like Mount Hood, Columbia Gorge, and world-class wine regions makes it ideal for full-day tours that offer rich experiences beyond the city limits. We particularly like the Portland: Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Full-Day Tour because it combines stunning scenery, a visit to the historic Timberline Lodge, and wine tasting—what’s not to love? This tour’s perfect mix of natural beauty and local flavors makes it a standout for a memorable day trip.
If you’re considering a full day exploring the area’s natural beauty and flavors, there are excellent options tailored for different interests. Whether you want to sip wine in lush vineyards or marvel at waterfalls with your camera, Portland has a tour for you. Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the best full-day tours, each with its unique appeal and details to help you decide.
1. Portland: Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Full-Day Tour
At number one, the Portland: Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Full-Day Tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting a mix of natural grandeur and wine tasting. Priced at $179 per person, this 8-hour trip earns a 4.9/5 rating from 49 reviews, reflecting its popularity and quality.
What makes this tour special? First, it includes a visit to hopping Hood River Valley, where you’ll sample wines from a renowned growing region, with a glass included at one vineyard. You’ll explore the historic Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood, a striking mountain-top building with decades of history, and take in the Columbia Gorge, where the awe-inspiring Multnomah Falls cascade down in two tiers. The tour strikes a good balance between scenic stops and tasting experiences, making it ideal for adventure lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.
This tour is especially suited to travelers who appreciate both outdoor scenery and local produce. The inclusion of cider and beer tasting along with wine adds variety. The only downside? The day can be quite full, so good footwear and a sense of adventure are recommended. This is a well-rounded trip that captures the best of Portland’s nearby natural and culinary delights.
Bottom Line: If you want a full day of waterfalls, mountain views, historic sites, and wine, this tour offers exceptional value with excellent reviews and a comprehensive experience.
2. From Portland: Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour
For around $210 per person, the Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour is a top pick for wine lovers. With a solid 4.7/5 rating from 25 reviews, this 7.5-hour trip focuses on exploring Willamette Valley’s renowned vineyards and tasting local wines.
What sets this tour apart? It takes you through 3-4 carefully selected wineries, allowing you to learn how the region’s unique geography and climate create perfect conditions for Pinot Noir and other varietals. The experience is educational, with guides explaining the nuances of winemaking and vineyard cultivation. A highlight is the delightful wine country picnic lunch, which adds a relaxed vibe to the day.
This trip is ideal for those looking to enjoy Oregon’s premier wine region without feeling rushed. The focus on education and tasting makes it perfect for wine novices and connoisseurs alike. Since it’s slightly shorter than some other tours, it offers a more relaxed pace, but it still covers enough ground to understand what makes Willamette Valley a world-class wine destination.
Bottom Line: For the best value in wine tasting with a focus on local viticulture, this tour delivers plenty of insight and flavor in a full-day package.
3. From Portland: Full Day Gorge Waterfalls & Mt. Hood Tour
At number three, the Full Day Gorge Waterfalls & Mt. Hood Tour is a perfect choice for waterfall enthusiasts and nature lovers. This 8.5-hour trip, priced at $129 per person, is one of the highest-rated options with a perfect 5/5 from just 2 reviews, emphasizing its quality.
This tour’s standout feature is the journey along Historic Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway, where you’ll see some of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. You’ll also explore the “fruit loop,” sampling fresh, local produce—an authentic taste of Oregon’s farming bounty. The visit to Timberline Lodge provides a chance to step inside a building with stunning mountain vistas and a cozy atmosphere.
What makes this tour unique? Its emphasis on waterfalls and lush forests makes it ideal for outdoor photographers and those wanting a peaceful connection with nature. The relaxed pace and scenic stops mean you can fully appreciate the beauty without feeling rushed. A potential drawback is the limited number of reviews, but those who’ve taken it praise the natural beauty and well-organized trip.
Bottom Line: If waterfalls and scenic drives are your priority, this tour offers a deep dive into the Gorge’s most photogenic spots with a touch of local agriculture.
4. Portland: Columbia Gorge Scenic Bikeway Full-Day Ride
Cycling enthusiasts will find the Columbia Gorge Scenic Bikeway Full-Day Ride a superb choice at $200 per person. This 8-hour adventure combines exercise with sightseeing, making it perfect for active travelers.
The ride covers between 35 and 60 miles, with gentle slopes and lower elevations, so you don’t need to be an expert cyclist. During the trip, you’ll pass spectacular waterfalls like Multnomah and Horsetail Falls, along scenic highways and protected pathways. The trip includes a guided experience, with a hybrid bike, helmet, snacks, and plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos.
What makes this tour stand out? It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy Portland’s natural beauty from a different perspective—on two wheels. The route is designed to be manageable for most fitness levels, and the guide ensures you see the best spots safely. The only downside? The physical effort required might not suit everyone, especially those with limited mobility.
Bottom Line: For active travelers eager to combine sightseeing with exercise, this bike tour offers a rewarding day with incredible views and waterfalls.
$200 per person
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Portland
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and physical condition. If you prefer a relaxed day of scenic drives and tasting, the Waterfalls and Mount Hood Tour or the Willamette Valley Wine Tour are excellent choices. For passionate cyclists comfortable with longer rides, the Scenic Bikeway provides a unique way to experience the gorge. And if waterfalls are your main focus, the Gorge Waterfalls & Mt. Hood Tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s natural beauty.
Think about your budget—most tours range from $129 to $210—and whether you want a more active or leisurely experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Portland offers a diverse array of full-day tours that showcase its natural beauty, rich wines, and scenic landscapes. The Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Tour and the Willamette Valley Wine Tour stand out for their combination of scenery and tastings, while the Gorge Waterfalls Tour appeals to those seeking natural serenity. For active travelers, cycling the Columbia Gorge Scenic Bikeway provides a memorable workout with stunning views.
No matter which tour fits your style, Portland’s surroundings promise a rewarding day outside the city. Be sure to plan ahead, book early, and get ready to explore Oregon’s best without feeling rushed.