Parts of historic Hwy 30 are closed through Memorial Day 2025 between Waukeena and Multnomah Falls, but any waterfalls along that road you can get to are breathtaking. Around the side of Multnomah Falls is a hiking trail to the top (wear proper shoes, Jessica has made that mistake before). Any of the other waterfalls will likely be a lot slower and easier to get in and out of, especially on weekdays (Bridal Veil, Latourell, and Wahkeena, alongside the Vista House viewpoint, which is not to be missed if you're driving past).

If parking at Multnomah Falls, please register in advance of your visit and do not leave anything of any value in the car at any falls.

Historic hotel and ski resort - can be busy on weekends. No sledding allowed on site, but you can go to Snow Bunny, Ski Bowl, or the Government Camp Sno Park behind the rest stop for sledding opportunities. Excellent buffet and bars

White River Sno Park probably has the best photo opportunities of Mt Hood and is about 15 minutes beyond the Timberline turnoff.

Spend an afternoon getting lost in an entire city block of a bookstore. Conveniently located to the Pearl district, breweries, restaurants, shopping (winter clothing abounds in this area), and coffee, it's easy to access with a vehicle or by transit. Street parking and parking decks are pay to park.

A giant park that you can take the bus to go on a forest hike. Miles of trails that connect you from northwest Portland to the Pittock Mansion, Japanese Garden, Oregon Zoo, Arboretum, and the Rose Test Garden, if you dare walk that distance.

Park designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, this beautiful park is on one of the dormant volcanoes in this part of the world. Watch for bicyclists on the road and see if you can find the view of Mt Hood through the trees at the top.

Lovely spot for flower and fauna spotting close to Reed College.

Glow in the dark indoor putt putt.

Beautiful and scenic trails through a beautifully manicured garden. Bonsai, koi, and views of Mt Hood await you at the top of one of the hills in the nature complex above Portland. This garden is overwhelmingly beautiful but may be less than accessible, starting with the switchbacks and stairs to get to the entrance after buying a ticket. Please plan accordingly, especially as parking can be a beast here during peak times.

Alternative options with easier accessibility in the same parking area include the International Rose Test Garden, Arboretum, Oregon Zoo, and the Vietnam Veterans of Oregon memorial.

Anyone feeling adventurous can drive 1.5 hours outside of Portland and get to Tillamook, which has a creamery just on the north side of town (next to Rogue Creamery, if taste comparisons are necessary). Taste all the ice cream flavors, have a snack, and watch cheese get made in one spot.

One of six sake breweries in the United States is out in Forest Grove. Sample some sake, take a tour of the facility, and get a view of Mt Hood on a clear day from the parking lot. Cute little patio area outside and sake flights galore.

Most of the rest of the alcohol tourism in the area is a huge list of wineries in and around the Willamette Valley. Explore and take note of the depth of flavors from Oregon grown grapes.

Sales tax free shopping in Oregon slays with a variety of retailers at both this outlet mall in Troutdale and the other prime outlet spot south of town in Woodburn. Bring empty suitcases to bring home the haul.