Romantic things to do in Portland
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Top 15 Most Romantic Things to do in Portland

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Romance can be found in pretty much every corner of this awesome Oregon city and whether you are taking a weekend break for two, a romantic anniversary getaway or just looking for creative date day, or date night, ideas, here are some of the most romantic things to do for couples in Portland, Oregon…

1. Go Ice Skating in Lloyd Center Ice Rink – a romantic and fun place to visit with your loved one 

Lloyd Center Ice Rink - Portland

You can have a magical wintery adventure any time of the year when you go ice skating at the Lloyd Center Ice Rink. This indoor ice rink in the center of Lloyd Center shopping mall is open year-round.

Bring your own skates or rent from the rink.

Stop by the recreational skate sessions with your partner for a romantic time holding hands on the ice (or helping each other up after a fall if you’re both beginners). When you’re tired of ice skating, walk around the shopping mall together.

2. Picnic in a Park – a great romantic date idea in Portland

Mount Tabor Park - Portland

Sometimes, the most romantic things that you can do with a partner are also the most affordable. For a romantic retro date, go on a picnic in one of Portland’s many parks. Put together a picnic basket at the farmer’s market (or just get takeout, we won’t tell).

Luckily, you have plenty of parks to choose from for a romantic picnic. For one of the most gorgeous park landscapes, check out Laurelhurst Park and snag a spot by the lake.

For a romantic view of Portland, hike up to Mount Tabor Park. Bring your own picnic blanket or snag a spot at some picnic tables.

3. Multnomah Falls – romantic activity with a picturesque view 

Multnomah Falls - Portland

For a romantic getaway into nature, you don’t have to go very far from Portland. Multnomah Falls is located about half an hour out of Portland, but the hustle and bustle of the city feels as if it is an entire world away when you step foot in front of the cascading falls.

Obviously, the main draw of Multnomah Falls is the waterfall itself. Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall and the sight of the water cascading over 620 feet of a craggy gorge is spectacular.

While you’re in the area, check out historic Multnomah Falls Lodge for a romantic dinner and gift shop visit.

4. Visit the Oregon Symphony – Perfect idea for a beautiful first date

The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall - Portland

There’s nothing more romantic than a night of culture! Enjoy the stirring sounds of classical music that has been inspiring amorous passion for centuries by visiting the Oregon Symphony.

The Oregon Symphony Orchestra performs a wide repertoire ranging from Haydn to holiday favorites to performances partnering with modern artists such as Gladys Knight.

In Portland, the orchestra performs in the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. The historic theater building’s gorgeous interior design enhances the experience and a visit will feel like a truly special night on the town.

5. Catch a Movie at Studio One Theatres – elegance and romance all in one

Studio One Theatre - Portland

Going to the movies is a classic date idea. Take it to the next level with a visit to Studio One Theatres, Portland’s most luxurious movie theater.

The theatre boasts several auditoriums, all with unique décor, couches, and other details that set the experience apart from your standard sticky floors and folding chairs at the movies.

Even the refreshments are a cut above at Studio One Theatres. Instead of popcorn and soda, check out custom cocktails and gourmet snacks. The next time you want to check out the latest blockbuster in Portland, be sure to go to Studio One.

6. Go Roller Skating in Oaks Park – fun activity to spend with the loved one

Roller Skating in Oaks Park-Portland

Oaks Park is a quaint amusement park located right in Portland. Oaks Park has many attractions, including mini-golf, games, and amusement park rides, but one of the most popular is the indoor roller rink.

The perfect getaway on one of Portland’s many rainy days, the retro roller rink offers you a fun opportunity to try a new activity with your partner.

Bring your own roller skates or rent your own from the rink. Come during the regular free skate or check out one of the themed nights. The Oaks Park roller rink hosts special events for holidays such as Halloween as well as monthly gatherings such as a gay skate.

  • Address: 7805 SE Oaks Park Way, Portland, OR 97202, United States
  • Oaks Park Website

7. Take a Dinner Cruise – awe-inspiring suggestion for a romantic activity

Romantic Dinner Cruise - Portland

Enjoy a romantic evening out and see Portland from a new perspective when you go on a dinner cruise. Different cruise operators offer trips along the Willamette River of varying lengths, meals, and times. One of the most popular is Portland Spirit.

Portland Spirit offers a dinner cruise through downtown Portland complete with an elegant three-course meal sourced from local ingredients, live music, and a private, candlelit table.

A dinner cruise through Portland is the perfect way to remember an anniversary or other special event.

8. Visit the Portland Night Market – cozy spot for a romantic evening

Portland Night Market - Portland

The perfect romantic way to explore the hustle and bustle that makes Portland unique is to check out the Portland Night Market.

Once a quarter, food vendors, artisans, and musicians set up shop in this unique space in the Industrial District after dark. Bring your partner and come browse the different cuisines and crafts that Portland’s finest artisans have to offer.

Whether you are planning to shop until you drop or just want to soak in the atmosphere, the Portland Night Market is the place to be.

Be sure to take a moment of stillness to check out the live musicians who perform during the market, who are often some of Portland’s finest.

9. Take a Flying Tour Around Mount Hood – said to be Portland’s most fascinating scenic view

Mount Hood - Portland

One of the most romantic things to do for couples in Portland, Oregon is actually located just outside the city.

While the peak of Mount Hood is visible from Portland itself on clear days, one of the best ways to get a good view of the mountain is to take a flight there. Different tour operators fly out of locations near Portland to get a glimpse of Mount Hood.

Depending on your preference, you can also get a birds-eye view of some of Oregon’s other finest landmarks. For example, Envi tours take you past Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge after summiting Mount Hood.

  • Address: Highway 26 & Highway 35, Hood River, OR 97031, United States
  • Mount Hood Website

10. Drive to the Drive-in 99W Theatre – classic drive-in theatre for the movie lovers

99W Theatre - Portland

If you’re the kind of person who thinks that dates in the past were so much more romantic than the modern-day, then the 99W Theatre is the place for you.

This drive-in theatre in Newberg, Oregon, is the only one of its kind in the greater Portland area.

Make the trip out to Newberg for when you want to see a movie retro-style. The 99W shows double features that mix blockbuster releases with older favorites. Be sure to check out the retro snack bar.

11. Go Bowling at Grand Central Bowl – great date idea for an enjoyable time

Grand Central Bowl - Portland

For an active date idea, try bowling at Grand Central Bowl. Whether you are both good at the game or bad, you’re sure to have fun as you make memories.

Grand Central Bowl is the best place to bowl in Portland. Besides bowling, the venue also offers an extensive arcade with classic games such as Pac-Man.

When you get hungry, the restaurant offers classic treats with a twist, such as tempura-battered cheese curds. This is not your standard bowling alley with greasy hot dogs!

12. Play Video Games at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade and Bar – a nostalgic place with old-school games in an innovative arcade

Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade and Bar - Portland

For a romantic evening that also satisfies your competitive spirit, check out Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade and Bar.

This two-story arcade specializes in vintage video games such as pinball, Donkey Kong, Frogger, and more. Relive your favorite childhood games in a fun, modern atmosphere.

When you’re done gaming, relax with classic bar food and themed cocktails at the bar. Ground Kontrol is the perfect place to go for classic arcade fun but in a slightly elevated setting.

13. Go to DIY Bar – lovely venue for a special occasion

DIY Bar - Portland

One of the best ways to bond with your date is to try and make something together. At DIY Bar, the two of you can try out different crafts in a fun, low-pressure setting.

Get together to create the next masterpiece or bond over your collective ineptitude. Either way, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

DIY Bar offers different craft workshops such as macramé, painting, and more. The craft and sip events also let you choose from different wines, seltzers, and other drinks to enjoy as you relax and craft.

This is a unique experience that you can’t get elsewhere and will make for a night to remember.

  • Address: 3522 N Vancouver Ave, Portland, OR 97227, United States
  • DIY Bar Website

14. Check Out the Soaking Pool at McMenamins Kennedy School – a romantic experience in a hidden gem

Soaking Pool at McMenamins Kennedy School - Portland

McMenamins Kennedy School is a luxurious hotel opened in a repurposed elementary school. You can come for a comfortable staycation with your partner or just visit for the day to check out the famous soaking pool.

The soaking pool is in a secluded outdoor courtyard that used to be the Teacher’s Lounge. You can enjoy the heated pool, surrounded by serene plants, as a day visitor for only $8 per person.

Many Portland locals don’t even know about this secret hideaway, making it a perfect place for a romantic outing in seclusion.

15. Visit OMSI After Dark – the perfect entertainment museum for couples

OMSI After Dark - Portland

OMSI, or the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, is an innovative science center perfect for curious minds of all ages. Every so often, the museum opens its doors to adults only at special events called OMSI After Dark.

Enjoy specialty drinks, small plates, live music, and more. Some events have different themes, so keep an eye out for ones that appeal to you.

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