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If you’re planning a trip to Portland, I know you’re ready to get some phenomenal photos.
I only spent a few days in the city, but I loved it. There was so much great food and the strange culture and beauty of the city permeated every corner I explored.
If you want to capture it, check out these six Instagram spots around Portland for some great photography spots!
1. The Redwoods at Hoyt Arboretum
Who says you can only see the redwoods in California?
Drive to Hoyt Arboretum and ask the tourist office to point you in the right direction – this gorgeous grove is an easy hike from the street.
Plus, a second spectacular Instagram spot around Portland is right nearby: The International Rose Test Garden. Both are free to visit, but the garden only blooms in the spring and summer while the redwoods are gorgeous all year round.
2. Old Salmon River Trail in Mount Hood National Forest
No visit to Portland is complete without a hike in the mossy, massive, menacing (but in a good way) PNW forests.
I went in early spring, so most trails in Mt. Hood National Forest were still packed in with snow.
However, the Old Salmon River trail was clear, easy to reach from Portland (only about an hour driving), and nice and flat to boot. Definitely one of my favorite Instagram spots around Portland!
Click here to learn how to hike on Old Salmon River Trail.
3. Oceanside Beach
Portland is amazing because the mountains and coastline are both easily accessible from the city.
If you want an iconic picture of the rocky Oregon coast, I recommend visiting Oceanside Beach. It has a small town and a nice stretch of sand, but you can also drive up above it for this spectacular view!
4. Oswald State Park
Keep driving down the coast from Oceanside Beach and you’ll come to Oswald State Park. There are lots of spots to simply pull over on the side of the road for photos like this, but you can hike up in the forest as well. Love!
5. Pittock Mansion
The Pittock Mansion is a great Instagram spot around Portland for a few reasons.
First, it’s super close to the city so you won’t have to drive as far as the places listed above. Second, the grounds are free to visit, and third, it’s a twofer!
The house itself makes for a nice photo, and it’s also up on a hill so you can get some skyline shots as well – if the weather cooperates, that is.
6. Breitenbush Hot Springs
Last but not least are the Breitenbush Hot Springs.
These are the furthest from Portland and will require a half-day trip from the city. But if you like soaking naked out in nature, this Instagram spot is for you!
I had mixed feelings about the place, to be honest, but you can read my full Breitenbush hot spring review and decide for yourself whether or not you want to go.
Capture Portland At These 6 Instagram Spots Around the City
Oregon really has it all and these six Instagram spots around Portland barely scratch the surface of the city’s amazing hikes, beautiful coast, and vibrant culture.
It’s safe to say I’ve completely fallen in love with the city and will be back to discover more amazing Instagram spots around Portland soon! Happy traveling 🙂
Ready to go? Explore accommodation like unique stays on Airbnb or the top-rated hotels on Booking.com to plan the perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay in the city.
This article is part of the Positively Portland series. Read the rest below:
How to Go Hiking Near Portland at Old Salmon River
The Complete Breitenbush Hot Spring Review
Then, explore the US series for more insider tips on what to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in the country.
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