Portland, Oregon, is a city that loves to show off its natural beauty, quirky neighborhoods, and vibrant food scene. It’s a place where you can spend hours exploring colorful neighborhoods like the Pearl District, marvel at stunning waterfalls, or taste some of the best Pinot Noir in the world. What makes Portland truly special for tours is its diverse landscape—from the lush forests of the Columbia River Gorge to the rugged Oregon Coast—and its lively arts and culture scene. Whether you’re after jaw-dropping scenery, delicious food, or city history, Portland’s tours deliver authentic experiences. We particularly enjoy the Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Tours for their stunning vistas and accessible guides, and the Oregon Coast Adventure Day Tour for combining forest, beach, and wildlife in one day.
Quick Overview
Our list of the 16 best tours in Portland includes a range of experiences—from scenic drives and waterfalls to food adventures and city walks. You’ll find nature lovers drawn to the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls and Mt. Hood Day Tours, while foodies can indulge in the Delicious Donut Tour or the Brunch Cruise. For a taste of Portland’s city life, the Soul of the City Walking Tour and the Bike Tour show off Portland’s urban charm. And for those wanting a relaxing river experience, the Willamette River Cruises provide scenic views and great food.
1. From Portland: Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Tour
At number one, this Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Tour offers a comprehensive look at one of America’s most famous natural areas. For just $89, you’ll spend four hours exploring waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge in a comfortable, high-roofed van. The tour is fully narrated, meaning you’ll learn about the area’s geology, history, and ecology from a knowledgeable guide. Highlights include multiple waterfalls, the historic buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, and panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains. This tour is ideal for travelers who love spectacular scenery and want a relaxed, informative outing without long hikes. The reviews (4.9/5 from 250 reviews) praise its professional guides and stunning vistas.
Bottom line: Perfect for scenery seekers and history buffs wanting a hassle-free day in the gorge.
2. Portland: Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Morning Tour
For those mornings when you want to start early, the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Morning Tour covers the same spectacular waterfalls in just 3.5 hours. This tour, rated 4.8/5 with 145 reviews, focuses on key sights like Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and the Vista House at Crown Point. The scenic drive along the historic highway offers plenty of photo opportunities, and visiting in the morning means fewer crowds. Perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape before the afternoon opens up for other adventures or city activities. The value at $85 per person makes it an accessible day starter for waterfall lovers.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for a quick, scenic morning focused on the gorge’s most iconic waterfalls.
3. Portland: Guided Delicious Donut Tour with Tastings
Sweet-toothed travelers will love the Donut Tour, which boasts a 4.9/5 rating from 89 reviews. For $70 and just two hours, you’ll explore four top donut shops near Portland State University, Pioneer Square, and downtown. This tour is a fun way to combine Portland’s iconic food scene with its lively neighborhoods. It’s perfect if you want a quick, casual outing that celebrates Portland’s playful spirit and culinary creativity. Your guide will point out local sights while you sample everything from classic glazed to inventive flavors. As one reviewer noted, “This is a must for food lovers and donut enthusiasts alike.”
Bottom line: A sweet, fun way to indulge and explore Portland’s vibrant food culture.
4. From Portland: Oregon Coast Adventure Day Tour with Pickup
If you’re after an all-day coastal adventure, the Oregon Coast Tour delivers. Rated 4.9/5 from 71 reviews, this 8.5-hour trip explores Oregon’s lush rainforest, charming Cannon Beach, and wild coastline. Along the way, you’ll hike forest trails, enjoy beach strolls, and look for wildlife like Roosevelt elk and gray whales. The tour includes visits to historic towns and natural highlights, with a local guide sharing insights about Native American tribes and explorers like Lewis & Clark. The $129 price includes pick-up and drop-off, making it great value for a comprehensive coastal experience. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a full day outside the city.
Bottom line: An excellent, full-day nature and coastal journey with personalized guide insights.
5. Oregon Coast Day Tour: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock
For a focused coastal experience, the Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock Tour is ideal. At $140, it offers 8.5 hours of sightseeing, including visits to beaches, state parks, and landmarks like Haystack Rock. The tour visits beautiful towns like Manzanita and Cannon Beach, with plenty of free time to wander art galleries, shops, and take in the scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see iconic Oregon coast sights without the commitment of a full coast trip. Rated 4.9/5 from 70 reviews, guests enjoy the relaxed pace and picturesque stops.
Bottom line: A relaxed, scenic day exploring Oregon’s rugged coast and charming towns.
6. Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River
For a leisurely meal combined with city views, the Lunch Cruise offers an enjoyable 2-hour experience. At $87, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared Northwest lunch while cruising past Portland’s skyline. The outer decks provide excellent vantage points for photos, and the narration offers insights into the city’s landmarks. This tour is well-suited for couples or small groups looking for a relaxing midday activity that combines food, scenery, and a bit of Portland history. The reviews (4.6/5 from 157 reviews) praise the friendly crew and quality meal.
Bottom line: A relaxing, scenic way to enjoy Portland from the river with good food.
7. Portland: Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Afternoon Tour
Similar to the morning tour, the Afternoon Waterfalls Tour provides another chance to see the waterfalls with a slightly different schedule. Rated 4.9/5 from 65 reviews, this 3.5-hour tour visits sites like Vista House and Multnomah Falls, with plenty of time for photos and short walks. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a later start or want to combine it with morning activities. The focus on scenic vistas and local stories makes it a favorite for nature lovers.
Bottom line: A flexible option for waterfall viewing later in the day, with the same stunning scenery.
8. Portland, Oregon: Soul of the City Walking Tour
For those interested in Portland’s culture and urban life, the Soul of the City Walking Tour is a perfect introduction. Rated 4.8/5 from 85 reviews, this 2-hour tour explores the cultural district, park blocks, and street art. Your guide shares stories about Portland’s activism, architecture, and artistic spirit, making it a lively way to understand the city’s soul. It’s best suited for travelers who want a short, engaging introduction to Portland’s neighborhoods and history.
Bottom line: A lively, insightful walk through Portland’s cultural heart.
9. Portland: Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Full-Day Tour
For a full immersion into Oregon’s outdoors and wineries, the Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Tour offers an 8-hour experience. Rated 4.9/5 from 49 reviews, it combines visits to Timberline Lodge, the Columbia Gorge, and a local winery. You’ll sample wines, learn about the region’s viticulture, and admire stunning scenery. It’s a good fit for travelers wanting a mix of outdoor adventure and wine tasting in a single day. The $179 price reflects the comprehensive nature of the tour.
Bottom line: An all-in-one outdoor and wine experience for active explorers.
10. From Portland: Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Day Tour
Another full-day option, the Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour covers many of the key sights. Rated 4.8/5 from 59 reviews, it combines waterfall viewing, a scenic drive around Mount Hood, and a wine tasting at a local vineyard. This tour is best suited for those wanting variety—nature, mountains, and wine—in a single day. The $155 price point offers good value given the itinerary and expert guide insights.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a diverse, full-day outdoor and culinary adventure.
11. Portland: Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise
For a more elegant experience, the Dinner Cruise combines scenic views with a three-course meal and live piano. Rated 4.5/5 from 129 reviews, it’s ideal for a romantic outing or special occasion. The cruise provides unique perspectives of Portland’s skyline at dusk, with narration highlighting city landmarks. The $127 price includes the meal and entertainment, making it good value for an upscale experience.
Bottom line: A refined way to enjoy Portland’s cityscape from the river with fine dining.
12. Portland: Brunch Cruise on Willamette River
For a laid-back weekend activity, the Brunch Cruise offers a 2-hour buffet brunch with sparkling wine and lively river views. Rated 4.9/5 from 37 reviews, it’s perfect for family or friends who want a casual yet memorable meal on the water. The buffet offers a variety of breakfast and dessert options, and the cruise provides excellent views of Portland’s bridges and skyline.
Bottom line: A relaxing, tasty way to enjoy Portland from the water with a casual vibe.
13. From Portland: Columbia Gorge Waterfalls and Mt. Hood Tour
This combined tour offers an 8-hour deep dive into the natural beauty of the region. Rated 4.8/5 from 45 reviews, it features waterfalls, scenic views of Mount Hood, and a visit to Timberline Lodge. The small group setting and expert commentary make it perfect for travelers who want to learn while exploring. The $149 price point is reasonable for a comprehensive day with multiple highlights.
Bottom line: A well-rounded day for lovers of waterfalls, mountains, and history.
14. Willamette Valley Wine Tour
Wine enthusiasts should not miss the Willamette Valley Wine Tour, which visits three vineyards known for Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. With a boutique tour size, the $140 price includes tasting fees and personalized attention from a local guide. The 6.5-hour experience is ideal for wine lovers who appreciate quality over quantity and want to learn about Oregon’s flagship wine region.
Bottom line: A top-tier wine tasting day for Pinot lovers and those wanting a relaxed, intimate experience.
15. Essential Portland: 2-Hour Guided Bike Tour
Explore Portland’s bike culture with the Bike Tour, rated 4.8/5 from 43 reviews. Available on e-bikes, it’s a casual ride through the waterfront, neighborhoods, and parks. It’s perfect for active travelers wanting a firsthand look at Portland’s bike infrastructure and local vibe without strenuous effort. It’s a budget-friendly choice at $55, and the small-group size ensures personalized attention.
Bottom line: An engaging, active way to see Portland’s most scenic neighborhoods and bike culture.
16. Portland: Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise
Finally, the Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise offers a laid-back, 1.5-hour journey on Portland’s river with panoramic views and a full bar. For only $40, you can relax and soak in the city’s sights while enjoying drinks and narration. Ideal for a casual evening or a different perspective on Portland’s skyline, this cruise concludes our list with a relaxed, social experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing with good drinks and city views.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Portland
When selecting a tour, think about your interests, schedule, and budget. If you love waterfalls, the Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Tours are hard to beat, especially for scenic beauty and ease. For wine lovers, the Willamette Valley Wine Tour and Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls combine outdoor scenery with tastings. If city culture is your focus, the Soul of the City Walking Tour or bike tours provide an active, immersive experience. For relaxing river time, cruises like the Lunch or Dinner options blend scenic views with good food.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, as popular tours fill quickly. Consider combining shorter city tours with outdoor adventures for a well-rounded trip. Portland’s diversity of tours ensures there’s something for every curiosity and energy level.
To sum it up, Portland offers a surprising variety of tours that showcase its natural beauty, vibrant neighborhoods, and excellent food and wine. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a cultural explorer, the options above can help craft a memorable visit. For the best experience, match your chosen tour with your interests and schedule, and don’t forget to book ahead—these popular adventures tend to fill up fast.