Portland blooms with seasonal events and cultural offerings in the spring, and now, with healthier populations, many local businesses are also flinging open their doors. Farmers Markets, local gardens and parks are spectacular in the springtime. Spring and summer event lineups are ramping up, with health and safety guidelines carefully planned to keep locals and visitors safe while having fun.
Our picks for spring events:
- Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival – Through May 2, marvel in 40 vivid acres of tulips, over 100 acres of outdoor space, and activities at one of the top spring attractions in Oregon. All tickets must be purchased online in advance.
- Portland Farmer’s Market – Saturdays 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at Portland State University, get your farm fresh produce, ready-to-eat food and homespun items here at the farmer’s market’s famed flagship location.
- Portland Rose Festival – Declared the city’s official festival in 2010, this year’s celebration includes a way for locals to participate from home with a Porch Parade, virtual fleet week, and the annual Rose Festival Art Show. The festivities begin on May 6.
- Out of the crowds and into nature: Take a hike! Our friends at Portland Monthly have put together a list of five terrific urban hikes near Portland, so pack those trail shoes and beat feet to catch some stunning scenery in perfect, mild weather.
Our picks for summer events:
- PDX Beer Week– June (check website for updates) – The region’s top brewers join forces with some of Portland’s best- known snack spots for limited-edition pints and plates, plus way more than seven days of beer-filled events.
- Waterfront Blues Festival – July 2-5- Crowds will gather “Upriver” this year in The Lot at Zidell Yards to celebrate Fourth of July weekend by grooving to a star-studded lineup of blues artists.
- Pickathon – Summer (check website for updates) – This is one of Stumptown’s most anticipated weekends of the year! Although 2021 events have yet to be announced, keep an eye on their website and social media pages for virtual celebrations and (hopefully) in-person acts this summer.
Shop locally while enjoying Portland. The Benson advocates for supporting local businesses, and acknowledges how important they are to the fabric of local communities. Our new “Support Local in Portland” promotion aims to connect with those who value not just local businesses, but a refreshingly local experience. From now until July 30 (book by May 6!), The Benson is offering exciting local incentives packaged with overnight stays, from treasured establishments. This promotion highlights Voodoo Doughnuts, Powell’s Books, Forte Coffee & Wine Bar, and Sizzle Pie–Portland’s pizza hot spot serving up East Coast style slices and pies with a healthy blend of West Coast flair. We’ve also thrown in complimentary overnight valet parking for your convenience.
While you’re in the heart of it all, don’t miss these special destinations:
- Pendleton Home – blankets, throws, home furnishings and accessories, with the largest collection of Native American blankets, just two blocks from The Benson.
- Huber’s – Portland’s oldest restaurant famous for its Spanish coffee.
- Portland Public House and Deschutes Brewery – to enjoy the city’s beloved brews, food and drinks.
As you plan your trip, get Portland COVID-19 status updates and guidelines here. We’re delighted to have you visit!
The Benson, a historic downtown Portland hotel, has long catered to celebrities, CEOs, dignitaries and every U.S. president since William H. Taft. It offers guests 287 tastefully appointed guest rooms, including a variety of suites, 18,000 square feet of meeting space and abundant guest amenities. Whether you are traveling for pleasure or business, The Benson offers comfort, luxury and proximity to all Portland has to offer.
