Top Rated Attracties in Portland

Henry Pittock, founder of Portland's Oregonian newspaper, built this spectacular mansion in 1914 and lived there until his death in 1919. This stately mansion was created in the style of a French Renaissance chateau and boasts three floors plus an incredible view of the city. The mansion is now a museum and showcases local history through artifacts and exhibits. Guests can tour the mansion and even book space for private functions.

Walk through the grand plaza and step into Oregon's past. Located in Portland's cultural district, The Oregon Historical Society has bountiful collections of historical artifacts, photographs, moving pictures, maps and more. Many exhibits are interactive, and the atmosphere is friendly. The museum is very well-maintained and curated in a way to provide easy navigation, it appears as though you are living history as you navigate your way through the interior. The center's shop is full of Native American jewelry, baskets and pots. The book collection covers all of the Northwest's history for adults and children.

Another testament to Portland's cultural diversity, this museum has quite a collection of interesting historical material relating to Oregon Jews. Exhibits focus on Judaism in the state and around the world. In the Footsteps of Columbus is one of the many must-see permanent exhibits here, it narrates an account of the Jews of Greece. Reading material is also available at the on-site library. Many historians, as well as patrons who are fond of cultural experience, are sure to admire the collection at this museum.

This is Hollywood, revisited. Perhaps not the California version, but Portland's little corner of the Hollywood District. The surreal exterior of this fine movie house, which bears a strong resemblance to a Walt Disney castle, makes it worth a visit. The renovated theater boasts a lavish decor, cheap admission to second-run films, comfortable seats and all the snacks. Enjoy an afternoon or evening of pure childlike entertainment. The charming setting makes the place perfect for a movie with family but it also very popular for date nights.

In a ride that lasts all of four minutes, experience one of the most exhilarating journeys you will ever make. The Portland Aerial Tram is a transportation marvel that soars high above this thriving city at 22 miles (35.40 kilometers) per hour. The only aerial tram to grace the airspace of the United States, second only to New York's Roosevelt Island Tramway, the Portland Aerial Tram traverses the area between the city's South Waterfront District and the Marquam Hill neighborhood.

There are plenty of things for children to touch, grab, tinker and play with at the Portland Children's Museum. The museum's wondrous exhibits make use of the principles of cognitive science to create an environment that encourages healthy curiosity and a thirst for learning in children of every age. Through a variety of fun and engaging exhibits, the museum appeals to the precocious minds of little ones and adults alike, creating an environment in which learning is anything but mundane. A day spent at the Portland Children's Museum promises to be a fun-filled one for the whole family.