Portland, Oregon is a beautiful and vibrant city known for its vibrant culture, green spaces, and beautiful scenery. There are plenty of parks and outdoor spaces to explore on a first date, from the iconic Portland Japanese Garden to Forest Park, the largest urban forest in the US. For those looking for a relaxed stroll, try the Willamette Riverfront, an easy route through the city with plenty of places to stop and admire the view. The International Rose Test Garden provides a stunning setting for a romantic walk and is the perfect spot for posing for photos. If you're feeling more adventurous, take a hike or bike ride around the hilltop of Mount Tabor Park or explore the picturesque back roads of the Columbia River Gorge.
1. Places for a coffee date in Portland
There are plenty of coffee shops around the city where you can cozy up and get to know each other over a hot cup of coffee. Try one of the famous Stumptown coffee shops or travel a little bit further to the charming Colossal Café in North Portland. For a more intimate atmosphere, try one of the smaller, independent coffee shops like Caffe Umbria or Ristretto Roasters. If you're feeling creative, book an art class at the local pottery cafe, Local Color Café.
2. Portland galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Portland is home to numerous galleries, museums and exhibitions to explore, giving you and your date plenty to talk about and discuss. The Portland Art Museum is a great choice for art lovers, while the world-renowned International Rose Test Garden is perfect for those who appreciate nature. The Oregon Historical Society is a great option for those interested in the city's fascinating history, and for those looking for something a bit different, the Portland Chinese Garden is a stunning way to spend a day.
3. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Portland
Portland is well known for its vibrant music scene, with plenty of live music venues to choose from. Visit the renowned Crystal Ballroom for some energetic indie-rock or head to the Dantes for some jazz. The Roseland Theater is also a great spot for a first date, with a packed calendar of music events and comedians. For something a little more classical, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall is home to the Oregon Symphony Orchestra, or you could always take your date to the Portland Ballet or the Theater of the Clouds at the Moda Center.
4. Portland pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you're looking for a drink or bite to eat, Portland has a wide selection of pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from. Downtown is home to some of the city's most popular spots like The Barrel Room, with its long list of craft beers, or the Wayback for its creative takes on classic dishes. For a romantic dinner date, take your date to Andina for some classic Peruvian cuisine or Le Pigeon for some upscale French-inspired dishes. There's also a great selection of cocktail bars, like Multnomah Whiskey Library for a relaxing evening of sipping whiskey and wine, or Fausel's Garden for classic cocktails with a twist.
5. Other date ideas to try in Portland
If you're looking for some other date ideas, Portland has plenty of other options to choose from. If you're feeling brave, why not take your date on the Willamette Jet Boat Tour? For a more relaxed evening, head to the movies or take in one of the many outdoor film screenings happening around the city. You could also try something different like a karaoke night or a digital escape room challenge. Or why not escape the city and head for a day trip to the Oregon Coast or the Columbia River Gorge for some stunning scenery. Whatever you decide to do, you're sure to have a great first date in Portland.
