31 Perfect Date Ideas in Portland, Oregon
There are plenty of unique date ideas in Portland if you know where to look. To help you switch up your regular date night routine, we’ve put together this list of date ideas in Portland that go beyond just dinner or drinks and will have you exploring this beautiful city in new and creative ways.
Whether you’re searching for outdoorsy date ideas in Portland or prefer a few relaxing activities instead, there’s enough romance around every corner to fill the hearts of smitten couples. Ready to woo a date in Portland and make it one for the scrapbook? The list below has you more than covered.
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- Foodie Date Ideas in Portland
- Date Night Ideas in Portland
- Relaxing Date Ideas in Portland
- Budget Date Ideas in Portland
- Outdoorsy Date Ideas in Portland
- Artistic Date Ideas in Portland
- Group Date Ideas in Portland
- Unique Date Ideas in Portland
Foodie Date Ideas in Portland
1. Take a Cooking Class
Whether the kitchen feels like home or you’re more of a microwave chef, hunting down cooking classes near you can lead to a memorable date night in Portland. There are many cooking classes in Portland to take, and each class offers the same opportunity to have fun in the kitchen while learning culinary secrets from a world-class chef. If you’re feeling more like a cozy night in, live online cooking classes are also a great option.
2. Find a Private Chef Near You
Every foodie deserves a private chef experience at some point — why not make it happen on date night? The city’s vibrant food scene makes private chefs in Portland some of the best in the nation.
Your personal chef will handle all of the grocery shopping, cooking, serving and even clean-up, so all you have to do is enjoy the gourmet food whipped up especially for you. You can trust that booking a private chef near you will yield a delicious date night.
3. Take a Brewery Tour and Tasting in Portland
Pioneers in the craft brewing movement, Portland breweries are some of the finest in the nation — they don’t call this city “Beervana” for nothing! For couples who love a cold one, a brewery tour and tasting in Portland would be a perfect date idea.
4. Take a Winery Tour and Tasting in Portland
The bucolic landscape just outside Portland is home to many high-profile wineries that make for idyllic summer date ideas. One of the can’t-miss recommendations is a winery tour and tasting in Portland, as it’s the perfect opportunity to soak up the warmth of nature’s rays, learn more about wine with your date and impress them with your superb palate.
5. Visit Huber’s Café
Founded in 1879, Huber’s Café (originally known as "The Bureau") is the oldest restaurant in Portland. Head to this vintage spot for upscale American fare in a stunning dining room with arched glass ceilings and warm wood paneling. This date idea in Portland wouldn’t be the same without a taste of the eatery’s Spanish Coffee, a stunning cocktail that features flames, spirits and, of course, coffee.
Date Night Ideas in Portland
6. Have a Laugh in the Park
Just when you thought Fridays couldn’t get any better, Kickstand Comedy in the Park came along and blew your expectations right out of the water. Set in the scenic Laurelhurst Park, Kickstand Comedy hosts a free comedy show every Friday evening from 6:30 p.m.
We’re not just talking about one, two or even three shows! No, the “stage” is set all summer long, from June right through September, meaning you can plan for this date night idea in Portland more than once, if you’d like (which you probably will). While enjoying the jokes made by the extremely talented local and national comedians, don’t forget to listen out for the quacks of the beloved Laurelhurst ducks.
7. Get a Hole in One Playing Mini Golf
A little birdie told us you might like this idea…alright, it was actually Birdie Time Pub. Don’t let the name of this popular spot fool you, though, as there’s more on offer than just craft beers, specialty cocktails and delicious eats.
The main attraction at Birdie Time Pub is actually the nine-hole mini golf course, although, regardless of the name, first-time golfers shooting bogeys are more than welcome. If you pictured your date night idea in Portland having a little more privacy with just as much swing, don’t forget to try out the golf simulator, where you can choose from over 80 courses worldwide.
8. Go Indoor Rock Climbing
This may not sound like your regular activity for a date night in Portland, OR, but who wants to play it safe (not literally) when there’s new heights to be reached in romantic endeavours? With experienced instructors ready to show you the ropes, indoor rock climbing is worth trying at least once, even for those who have a fear of climbing a few flights of stairs.
If this sounds like a fun date idea in Portland, Oregon, but you’re not sure where to go, we’ve got you covered. Portland Rock Gym, Movement Portland and The Circuit Bouldering Gym are all great spots to hang out while burning a few calories.
9. Watch the Sun Set on Another Day
No date night in Portland, OR, is complete without taking in the magical scenery of a mesmerizing sunset, whether it’s to start off the evening or complete a memorable day. The beauty of engaging in this self-care activity is that it’s completely free, but you can bet your bottom dollar that the moments captured in time will be priceless.
However, you can elevate this date activity in Portland by taking a picnic along, complete with delectable foods and your favorite bottle of wine. Don’t forget to throw a poetry book in the basket, too.
Not sure where the best date spots in Portland are to watch the sun go down? At over 1,000 feet above sea level, Council Crest is one of the city’s highest spots, and its beauty also lends itself to being one of the best places to watch the sunset.
Relaxing Date Ideas in Portland
10. Enjoy a Night in on a Virtual Date
If you aren’t up for Portland date ideas that require you to be out and about, you’ve just found your go-to plan. Switch up your classic relaxing date night at home with a virtual tasting experience.
Learn to mix drinks in live online mixology classes, where you can even develop a signature drink as a couple. Alternatively, develop your tasting palate with a sommelier-led virtual wine tasting.
11. Watch a Movie at the Kennedy School Theater
Why settle for regular cinemas when you can organize a date idea in Portland at a more unique location? Relax in a plush armchair or couch to enjoy a film at the Kennedy School Theater, a movie theater located in a converted school.
Order craft beverages, snacks and even meals from the full-service bar and kitchen to enjoy during the film. This relaxing date night idea takes care of both dinner and the movie!
12. Stroll Through the Portland International Rose Test Garden
Featuring more than 10,000 roses, the Portland International Rose Test Garden is a low-key date spot for floral lovers. And on date night, what could be more dreamy than strolling through rows and rows of fragrant, colorful roses? Peak season is late May through October, so it’s best to plan this romantic date idea around that time, during which over 610 different rose varieties display their exquisite colors.
13. Wander Powell’s Books
Get a read on your date's taste in books (and perhaps bond over your favorites) as you meander through Powell’s Books, an iconic independent bookstore in the city. Once you get your fill of wandering through the aisles of books, introduce a second part to this date idea in Portland — a stop at the nearby Courier Coffee for a refreshing craft drink.
14. Visit the 99-W Drive-in Theater
For a different yet relaxing thing to do in Portland, head on over to one of the city’s most iconic establishments for a brilliant film. The historic 99-W Drive-In Theater has been operating and family-owned since 1953.
Enjoy a double feature (no guarantees as to how cohesive the two films will be) from the privacy and comfort of your vehicle. Finally, what would this fun date idea in Portland be without classic snacks like popcorn, pretzels and nachos? Don’t worry, they’re all available at the snack bar.
Budget Date Ideas in Portland
15. Grab a Coffee
Nothing screams “winter date idea” like a cup of java with your crush. Portland has no shortage of amazing coffee shops — why not try out a new one on date night? Even if the coffee runs you each upward of $7, this date idea can sneak in under $20 for the two of you.
Ready to plan a date activity in Portland that helps you find your new favorite spot? Never Coffee is known for unique latte flavors, and Barista has the best latte artists around. Portland Cà Phê offers unique Vietnamese coffee, and Cathedral Coffee boasts art-lined walls that are a delight to explore.
16. Enjoy the Views at Mocks Crest Park
Not only is this a fun thing for couples to do, but it’s also the most inexpensive among date ideas in Portland. Hike up what’s known as the “Skidmore Bluffs,” the park located on North Skidmore, for (free) uninterrupted views of Swan Island, the Willamette and greater Downtown Portland.
Hauling up a blanket and a picnic basket stuffed with goodies will be more than worth it when you’re snacking on delicious eats while cuddled up next to your date.
17. Peruse the Portland Art Museum
For a budget date night in Portland that feels extravagant, visit the Portland Art Museum, the West Coast’s oldest art museum.
This long-standing establishment (dating all the way back to 1892) features creative works that span the globe, including magnificent silver pieces and incredible photography, as well as Asian, European and American art. If your partner is a big fan of art, pair this Portland date idea with a painting class for the ideal day out.
Outdoorsy Date Ideas in Portland
18. Hike Macleay Park
Located at the southernmost tip of Forest Park, Macleay Park is a forested oasis right outside the city. With deep ravines and large shady firs and cedars, this is the perfect date idea in Portland if you feel like getting lost with your partner (though not literally) in the beauty of the park as you enjoy a magnificent hiking journey together.
19. Go Chasing Waterfalls
Of all the romantic things to do in Portland, Oregon, this is easily up there as one that will fill your heart the most. Take a hike through Silver Falls State Park on the Trail of Ten Falls, a nationally recognized hiking trail weaving through a forested landscape. The trail passes a series of 10 stunning waterfalls along a rocky canyon.
If you’re a sucker for autumn colors that pair well with magnificent torrents, you might want to plan this as a fall date idea. After taking in the natural beauty, head over to Silverton’s MillTown Pub for refreshment.
20. Sail Away Together
For a one-of-a-kind date, sail through Portland on a private sailboat with Scovare Expeditions. Book one of the boats from a magnificent fleet of six for the captain to cruise you and your date through the magical water, or you can take the opportunity for a private sailing lesson. What makes this date idea in Portland even better is that you can take snacks and drinks to enjoy on the boat, so there’s no need to spend extra while aboard.
21. Visit Sauvie Island
If you’ve never been to Sauvie Island, you’re missing out on a wildlife refuge and rural farming community 10 miles northwest of town, with beaches, farm stands and lush trails to enjoy. Lounge on the beach and watch the boats go by, or picnic alongside the Wapato Access Greenway trail. Cap off this fun date idea in Portland with a visit to the beautiful Cistus Nursery.
Artistic Date Ideas in Portland
22. Catch a Show at the Doug Fir Lounge
Hosting a diverse line-up of talented artists, Doug Fir Lounge, a live music venue with a full restaurant and bar, is a can’t-miss spot for couples who love great tunes and delicious food. Grab a bite before catching a show, and don’t miss the fire pit upstairs.
23. Head to an OMSI After Dark Event
Experience one of the city’s most popular museums like never before at OMSI After Dark. These 21+ events held at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry usually take place on the last Wednesday of every month and feature local artisans, vendors and experts for the exploration of science in more social settings. Enjoy live music, delicious Portland food, refreshing cocktails and spectacular exhibitions with your date.
24. Don’t Miss Weekends at Clyde’s Prime Rib
A Portland establishment since 1955, Clyde’s Prime Rib is a classic restaurant, bar and music venue loved by locals and visitors from all over. On weekends, Clyde’s brings in live bands, giving the restaurant a classy jazz-club feel. The clientele skews older in the best way. Grab a drink, listen to the music and don’t worry about the bartender judging your order.
Group Date Ideas in Portland
25. Show Your Moves at Adult Late-Skate at Oaks Park
Gather a group of couples for a retro double date idea, such as skating to funky tunes. On Tuesdays from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Oaks Park Roller Rink is adults-only and features a live DJ playing hits from the ‘70s to the present. This date idea is the perfect opportunity to show off your skills or perhaps lean on your date for help around the rink!
26. Show Off Your Pipes During Karaoke at the Spare Room
There are hardly any fun date ideas in Portland that are more invigorating than karaoke, right? Sunday through Wednesday from 9 p.m. to midnight, the Spare Room hosts karaoke night.
Test the limits of your relationships with the number of times you can belt out the lyrics to your favorite songs. As this spot is also a bar, the Spare Room will provide plenty of fuel to keep your group singing late into the evening.
27. Try Out an Escape Room
By now, you’ve probably realized that there’s no shortage of things to do in Portland for couples, but have you ever tried escaping? No, we don’t mean the city. Gather a group of couples and put your heads together to get out of an escape room before the allotted time is up.
This group date idea is great for crowds who love a challenge. Some Portland escape room options include Escape Games PDX, Hour to Midnight and Portland Escape Rooms.
Unique Date Ideas in Portland
28. Swing Dance at Norse Hall
The historic Norse Hall, a Portland dance venue since 1928, is the perfect place to swing your date back in time for a traditional dance lesson. On Sundays, beginner’s swing dance lessons are just $10 per person.
Once class ends, this date idea in Portland, Oregon, doesn’t have to end, too, as you and your partner can test out your new dance skills to the sounds of a DJ playing groovy beats until 11 p.m.
29. Square Dance at the Village Ballroom
Every third Sunday of the month from September to May, the Village Ballroom hosts square dancing for all ages and skill levels. Bring your date for a special evening of dancing, music and drinks, which are available in the hall or at the pub downstairs. This unique date idea in Portland is just $7 to $15 per person.
30. Attend a Trivia Night
If you and your date are masters of the “random fact,” attend one of the many trivia nights around Portland for an evening of triumph, defeat and great drinks. Local trivia spots include The Waypost, The Twilight Room and Side Street.
31. Get Your Game Face on at Ground Kontrol
This arcade bar is a gamer couple’s ideal date night. Vintage video games and pinball machines line the two stories of this adult arcade, and the beer and wine bar provides refreshments to refuel you in between rounds. There is also live music and DJs on the weekends, turning Ground Kontrol into a one-stop spot for date night.
Armed with a list of perfect date ideas in Portland, it’s time to take to the city and experience everything it has to offer. What are your favorite date ideas in Portland? Could it be learning to mix a new cocktail in a mixology class? Or what about a day spent at the beautiful Sauvie Island? No matter what you opt for, the quality time spent with your date is what matters in the end.
For even more fun date ideas, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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