Attractions and Places To See in Multnomah County - Top 20

Multnomah County is renowned for its natural beauty. A must-see is Multnomah Falls and Benson Bridge, Oregon's tallest waterfall. You can also explore the scenic Tryon Creek for its beautiful forest trails and wildlife, or discover the impressive Wiesendanger Falls. The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers breathtaking views and numerous other waterfalls like Latourell Falls and Horsetail Falls. Within Portland, Forest Park and Washington Park provide expansive green spaces.

Yes, Multnomah County has several significant historical landmarks. Visit Crown Point, home to the historic Vista House, offering panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. In downtown Portland, Pioneer Courthouse Square is a central gathering place, and the Pioneer Courthouse itself is the oldest federal building in the Pacific Northwest. The Bonneville Dam is another historical site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Multnomah County offers many family-friendly options. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a major attraction with interactive exhibits. Multnomah Falls and Benson Bridge is also great for families, as are the trails at Tryon Creek. The Oregon Zoo, located within Washington Park, is another popular destination for all ages. Waterfront Park also provides open spaces and events suitable for families.

For easy hikes, consider the trails around Tryon Creek, which are well-maintained and run through a beautiful forest. The Lower Macleay Trailhead in Forest Park offers accessible paths. Many sections of the Historic Columbia River Highway also feature relatively easy walks to various waterfalls.

Yes, several viewpoints in Multnomah County are wheelchair accessible. Crown Point, with its Vista House, offers stunning panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. The Tilikum Crossing bridge is car-free and provides excellent city views. The main viewing platform at Multnomah Falls is also accessible.

The waterfalls in Multnomah County, especially those along the Columbia River Gorge, are spectacular year-round. However, late spring and early summer offer lush greenery and strong water flow from snowmelt. The rainy season (fall and winter) also brings impressive volumes of water, making for dramatic views, often with fewer crowds.

Multnomah County offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Willamette Greenway and Trolley Trail Loop' or the 'Historic Columbia River Highway and Marine Drive Loop.' For runners, trails like 'Wild Cherry, Alder, and Dogwood Loop' or 'Leif Erikson Drive – Forest Park' are popular. There are also many waterfall hikes, including the 'Wahkeena Falls Trail to Fairy Falls and Multnomah Falls loop.' You can explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes, Running Trails, and Waterfall Hikes guides for Multnomah County.

Absolutely. The Tilikum Crossing is notable as the largest car-free bridge in the US, offering great views of the city. The Sellwood Bridge, a majestic arch spanning the Willamette River, is Oregon's most frequently used two-lane bridge. Additionally, the historic Benson Bridge at Multnomah Falls allows visitors to stand between the upper and lower falls.

Beyond natural beauty, Multnomah County boasts rich cultural sites. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) offers engaging exhibits. Within Washington Park, you'll find the authentic Portland Japanese Garden and the vibrant International Rose Test Garden. The Portland Art Museum is another key cultural institution, and Pioneer Courthouse Square is often called 'Portland's Living Room' due to its role in city life.

Yes, many trails in Multnomah County are dog-friendly. The Lower Macleay Trailhead is a good starting point for walks with your dog in Forest Park. Always check specific trail regulations, as some areas may require dogs to be on a leash or have restrictions.

Troutdale, located at the mouth of the Columbia River Gorge, offers parks like Glenn Otto Community Park and a charming historic downtown area. It's also home to the unique McMenamins Edgefield Hotel, a transformed historic poor farm now a destination resort with a brewery, winery, and entertainment, serving as a great base for exploring gorge trails.

Yes, Multnomah County features several significant urban green spaces. Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, covering over 5,000 acres within Portland. Washington Park also offers extensive green areas, including the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden. Waterfront Park provides a vibrant riverfront greenway with art installations and plazas.