Portland When To Go and Weather

Peak Season June - September

Portland’s reliably warm, sunny summers—with an average high of 80 degrees in July and August—draw the greatest number of visitors, who enjoy the city’s outdoorsy, sidewalk café culture. Many visitors follow up their urban excursions with a couple days of wine-country touring in the nearby Willamette Valley. Spring and summer are also best for enjoying the Rose City’s many bloom-filled parks. Hotel rates soar during peak season. However, by booking in advance, visitors can escape the highest rates.

Off-Season November - April

Portland’s museums and cultural events attract visitors year-round, yet those visiting November through April can enjoy less-crowded public transit and rub elbows with locals at arts institutions, shopping venues and breweries. All of the city’s most popular visitor activities are available year-round, though many Willamette Valley wineries are closed in the winter. Expect rainy weather during the off-season. Hotel rates fall with the rain through the winter and early spring months, with some exceptional hotels offering spectacular bargains. Snow falls every few years, with occasional major storms.

Shoulder Season May and October

Portland’s climate is surprisingly moderate in the shoulder months of May and October. May brings showy blooms to rhododendrons in gardens and parks, and October feels like a late summer month, with pleasantly warm days and cool nights. Hotel rates increase the closer you get to summer. Pack raingear and warm-weather clothing to meet any weather occasion during these months.