Things to Do in Portland During 4th of July Weekend

BBQ, Paddling and a Little City Hiking this 4th of July

While the celebrations this year won’t culminate in that familiar sizzle and pop of fireworks over the Willamette River, there’s still plenty of festive fun to fill your time — and bellies – with across Portland. If you’re celebrating Independence Day here in Rose City, here are a few ideas as you venture out to hike, bike or day drink and nosh at some of the city’s best BBQ spots.

Get Out On The Water

Give our friends at Next Adventure a call to reserve a kayak for the day at the Scappoose location (only), just a few miles north of the city on the Willamette River. Or try Portland Kayak Company for day rentals, located at 6600 SW Macadam Ave in Southwest Portland.

Gear Up For a City Hike

Forest Park, the largest urban wilderness park in the U.S., is sprawling over 5,000 acres within Portland’s city limits. Just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, Forest Park has 70 miles of trails winding through its dense woodlands, and is home to elk, flying squirrels, bobcats, hairy woodpeckers, owls and newts.

Pedal the Night Away

Grab one of the hotel bicycles and head down to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, offering views of the famous bridges that give the city its Bridgetown nickname, including the Burnside, Hawthorne, Fremont, Morrison, and Tilikum Crossing bridges.

Pro tip: a couple paces up the Burnside Bridge will give you a good glimpse of the notorious flashing Portland sign.

Image from @portlandsaturdaymarket on Instagram.

Enjoy the Arts & Craft Beers

Wander the Portland Saturday Market, the largest continuously operating open-air arts and crafts market in the country. Shop local Northwest artists and craftspeople and sip local beers while listening to live music.

Image from Podnah’s Pit.

What’s 4th of July without BBQ?

Try our rec’s currently offerings take out: Podnah’s Pit for smoked Texas-style barbecue in Northeast Portland, Reverend’s BBQ in Sellwood for comfort eats like St. Louis-style smoked pork ribs, and Matt’s BBQ, a hometown hero in the food truck scene along Mississippi Ave for delicious BBQ tacos.

Still Hungry? We Don’t Blame You

Try these popular spots, currently offering outdoor dining: Jacqueline, Kachka, Bit House Saloon, Flying Fish Company, Renata or Paddy’s Bar & Grill. For a complete list of our recommend eats, breweries, and restaurants, check out our Portland Directory.

Hotel Lucia

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