Portland, Oregon, is a city that’s not only bursting with unique culture, vibrant street art, and stunning parks, but it also offers a collection of breathtaking photo opportunities that will fill your Instagram feed with striking colors and unforgettable memories. From towering trees in lush gardens to iconic bridges and vibrant murals, Portland is a haven for photographers and those looking to capture some truly magical moments. I’m excited to share with you my top 10 most Instagrammable spots in the city. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just looking to add some scenic shots to your feed, these spots should definitely be on your radar.
1. Washington Park
Washington Park is one of the crown jewels of Portland, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty and diverse landscapes. With over 150 acres of sprawling greenery, gardens, and trails, Washington Park is an ideal spot to capture everything from tranquil forest scenes to vibrant floral displays.
Best Photography Tips:
- Japanese Garden: One of the most serene and photogenic spots in the park is the Portland Japanese Garden. The peaceful ponds, manicured bonsai trees, and traditional bridges make it a perfect place to capture stunning, calming shots. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light to create soft, natural tones in your photos.
- Rose Garden: If you visit in spring or summer, the International Rose Test Garden offers vibrant colors and beautiful blooms that are perfect for close-up shots. A shallow depth of field will allow you to focus on a single bloom while blurring the background to create a dreamy effect.
Transport: The park is easily accessible via bus from downtown Portland, and the MAX Light Rail also takes you close to the park. If you’re in the city center, it’s about a 10-minute drive. Parking is available on-site.
2. Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s City of Books is a must-see for any book lover and is Portland’s largest independent bookstore. But beyond being a literary treasure, it’s also an Instagram hotspot, with its charming nooks and endless rows of colorful books that beg to be photographed.
Best Photography Tips:
- Book Aisles: Head to the “rare books” section or the upstairs stacks to capture the mesmerizing rows of books with deep, contrasting colors. The soft lighting inside the store creates a cozy atmosphere, and the shelves give the images a sense of depth.
- Books & Coffee: If you’re a coffee enthusiast, photograph your cappuccino paired with an interesting book from Powell’s café. The warm tones and soft-focus backgrounds will make for an inviting Instagram shot.
Transport: Located in downtown Portland, Powell’s is easily accessible by foot if you’re staying in the city center. Alternatively, you can take the MAX Light Rail to the nearby stops.
3. Tilikum Crossing
Portland is home to some fantastic bridges, but the Tilikum Crossing stands out as one of the most visually stunning. It’s a car-free bridge that connects Portland’s Eastside and South Waterfront districts, offering unobstructed views of the Willamette River, Portland’s skyline, and Mount Hood in the distance.
Best Photography Tips:
- Golden Hour Shots: Sunset is the perfect time to capture the soft golden light illuminating the white cables of the bridge and reflecting on the river below. If you can time it right, the colors in the sky paired with the bright lights of the bridge create a truly stunning shot.
- Long Exposure: A long exposure shot of the Tilikum Crossing at night will create a mesmerizing effect with the moving lights and the soft, illuminated curves of the bridge.
Transport: Easily accessible by public transport, including the MAX Light Rail, which has a stop right near the bridge. If you’re driving, there’s parking near the waterfront area, but it can be limited during peak times.
4. Forest Park
If you’re a nature photographer, Forest Park is one of Portland’s best-kept secrets. This urban forest is filled with miles of trails, towering trees, and peaceful streams, offering countless opportunities for beautiful, green photography.
Best Photography Tips:
- Trail Shots: Forest Park’s dense tree canopy creates beautiful light-filtering effects, especially when the sun is low in the sky. Capture the sunlight peeking through the trees or the winding paths that cut through the forest.
- Waterfall Photos: There are several small waterfalls in the park, such as the stunning Macleay Park Falls. A slow shutter speed will capture the motion of the water and add a silky texture to your images.
Transport: Forest Park is located just outside of downtown Portland. You can easily take public transportation to get close to the park, but it’s best to have a car if you want to explore deeper into the trails. There’s free parking available at several trailheads.
5. Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum is the oldest and largest art museum in the Pacific Northwest. The museum itself is housed in a beautiful, historic building with modern additions, making it a fantastic spot for architecture shots as well as indoor photography of artwork.
Best Photography Tips:
- Exhibit Photos: Use the museum’s exhibits to practice your composition skills. Capture pieces of art while framing them with the beautiful museum architecture. Be sure to focus on the details of each artwork to showcase its texture and color.
- Architecture Shots: The modern parts of the building, such as the Hoffman Gallery, offer sleek lines and glass reflections that make for stunning architectural photos.
Transport: Located in the cultural district, the museum is easily accessible by bus or the Portland Streetcar. If you’re coming from downtown, it’s just a short walk.
6. Voodoo Doughnut
This quirky and colorful donut shop is a must-see for anyone visiting Portland, and it’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious. The bright neon sign and the signature pink box are iconic, making it a go-to spot for foodies and Instagrammers alike.
Best Photography Tips:
- The Donuts: Get a close-up shot of your donut with a clean, white background for a simple yet appealing photo. The bold colors of the donuts contrast well with the soft-focus backgrounds.
- The Sign: Don’t forget to snap a photo of the famous neon sign outside, which will make a perfect addition to your feed.
Transport: Located in downtown Portland, Voodoo Doughnut is walking distance from many attractions. There’s also a parking lot nearby if you’re driving.
7. Portland Street Art
Portland is known for its incredible street art scene, and you’ll find vibrant murals all over the city. These murals are ever-changing, so you’ll always find something new to photograph. Some of the best spots for street art include the Alberta Arts District and the Mississippi Avenue neighborhood.
Best Photography Tips:
- Murals and Graffiti: These colorful works of art are perfect for capturing Portland’s creative energy. Try to shoot with a wide aperture to make the mural the focal point of your shot, allowing it to stand out against the background.
- People and Art: Incorporating people into your street art shots can bring the murals to life. A candid shot of a person interacting with the art will add a personal touch.
Transport: Many of the best street art locations are in neighborhoods like Alberta and Mississippi, which are accessible by bus or bike. If you’re driving, street parking is usually available.
8. Pittock Mansion
For panoramic views of Portland and the surrounding landscape, head to Pittock Mansion. Perched on a hill, the mansion offers a sweeping vista of the city, the Cascade Range, and Mount Hood. It’s especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.
Best Photography Tips:
- Cityscapes: The iconic shot is of the city below with Mount Hood in the background. A wide-angle lens will help you capture the expanse of the view.
- Mansion Architecture: Don’t forget to take some close-ups of the mansion itself, with its classic architecture and gorgeous details.
Transport: Located in the West Hills, Pittock Mansion is best reached by car, though you can also hike up if you’re in the mood for a bit of exercise.
9. Lan Su Chinese Garden
This peaceful garden, located in downtown Portland, is an authentic classical Chinese garden that provides a stunning backdrop for photography. With traditional Chinese architecture, koi-filled ponds, and lush greenery, it’s a tranquil retreat that feels worlds away from the city hustle.
Best Photography Tips:
- Reflection Shots: Capture the garden’s peaceful ponds by taking advantage of the reflections of the buildings and flowers on the water’s surface. Use a wide aperture for a soft, dreamy effect.
- Chinese Architecture: The intricately designed pavilions and bridges are beautiful, so make sure to photograph these details up close to capture their intricate carvings and colorful roofs.
Transport: Accessible by foot if you’re staying in the city center, or a short bus ride from downtown.
10. Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Finally, for a quintessential Portland scene, head to Tom McCall Waterfront Park along the Willamette River. This park offers gorgeous views of the river, the city skyline, and even some distant mountains on clear days. It’s particularly beautiful during spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Best Photography Tips:
- River Views: Capture shots of the river with the city skyline in the background. A wide shot with a blue sky and soft light will make for a stunning photo.
- Blooming Flowers: If you visit in the spring, the cherry blossoms offer a breathtaking pop of color, perfect for close-up shots.
Transport: The park is easily reachable by foot, bike, or bus from most parts of Portland.
Final Tips for Easy Travel and Photography
To make the most of your photography trip to Portland, consider using the Portland Streetcar, MAX Light Rail, or bike-sharing programs to get around. Portland’s public transport is reliable and convenient for reaching these top spots. You can also rent a car if you prefer more flexibility or want to explore areas outside the city center.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Weather: Portland’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring a rain jacket or umbrella. The best time for photography is typically during the golden hour—early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and warm.
- Crowds: Some popular spots like Voodoo Doughnut or Powell’s can get crowded, so it’s best to visit early in the morning if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle.
