Things to Do in Portland in April

April Weather in Portland

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Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Cherry blossoms peak in early April - Washington Park's 10,000+ trees bloom for 2-3 weeks creating spectacular photo opportunities without summer crowds
Perfect hiking weather with temperatures ideal for Columbia River Gorge trails - waterfalls at maximum flow from snowmelt and spring rains
Food cart pod season begins as outdoor seating returns - 60+ cart locations reopen after winter closures with lighter crowds than summer
Tulip season at nearby Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm (45 minutes south) peaks mid-April, offering day trip opportunities with mild weather perfect for outdoor festivals

Considerations

Unpredictable rain patterns - 10+ rainy days but showers can hit anytime, making outdoor plans challenging without backup options
Shoulder season closures - some seasonal attractions like certain Mt. Hood activities may still be closed, and food carts have limited winter hours
Variable temperatures require layered clothing - can swing from 7°C (45°F) mornings to 19°C (66°F) afternoons within the same day

Best Activities in April

Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Tours

April offers peak waterfall conditions with snowmelt creating maximum flow at Multnomah Falls and surrounding cascades. Cool temperatures of 7-19°C (45-66°F) make the 1.6km (1-mile) hike to Multnomah's upper viewpoint comfortable, while spring crowds are 40% smaller than summer. The frequent light rain keeps trails lush and waterfalls dramatic.

Booking Tip: Book waterfall tours 7-10 days ahead as April weekends fill up with locals enjoying spring weather. Tours typically cost $85-125 and include transportation from downtown Portland. Look for operators offering indoor vehicle options for rainy weather periods. Current tour options available in booking section below.

Washington Park Cherry Blossom Photography Tours

Early April is peak cherry blossom season with over 10,000 trees blooming simultaneously. The International Rose Garden and Japanese Garden offer spectacular backdrops, while cool morning temperatures and frequent overcast skies create ideal photography lighting. April's moderate crowds allow for better photo opportunities than peak summer.

Booking Tip: Photography tours run $75-120 for 2-3 hours during peak bloom (typically first two weeks of April). Book 5-7 days ahead as blossom timing varies by weather. Look for tours including both Rose Garden and Japanese Garden access. See current specialized photography tours in booking section below.

Food Cart Pod Walking Tours

April marks the return of full food cart operations as outdoor seating areas reopen after winter. Cool but comfortable temperatures make walking between pods pleasant, and spring menus feature seasonal ingredients. Crowds are lighter than summer peak, meaning shorter lines at popular carts and more interaction with vendors.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically cost $65-95 and include 4-6 cart tastings over 2.5 hours. Book 3-5 days ahead for weekend tours. Look for tours covering multiple neighborhoods like Alberta, Hawthorne, and downtown pods. Indoor backup plans important for rainy days. Current food tour options in booking section below.

Brewery District Cycling Tours

April's mild temperatures are perfect for cycling between Portland's brewery clusters without summer heat exhaustion. Spring weather brings outdoor beer garden reopenings, and the city's 32km (20 miles) of bike lanes are less crowded. Light rain actually enhances the cozy brewery atmosphere locals love.

Booking Tip: Brewery bike tours cost $85-110 including bike rental and 3-4 brewery stops over 3-4 hours. Book 5-7 days ahead for weekend tours. Look for operators providing rain gear and indoor alternatives. Electric bike options available for hillier routes. See current brewery cycling tours in booking section below.

Mt. Hood Day Trip Tours

April offers clear mountain views between spring storms, with snow-capped peaks visible on sunny days. Timberline Lodge area is accessible while higher elevations still hold snow, creating dramatic landscape contrasts. The 1.5-hour drive through Hood River Valley showcases spring orchards beginning to bloom.

Booking Tip: Mt. Hood day tours run $130-180 including transportation and typically 6-8 hours total. Book 10-14 days ahead as spring weather can affect mountain access. Look for tours including Timberline Lodge and Hood River stops. Weather-dependent, so choose operators with flexible rescheduling policies. Current mountain tours in booking section below.

Pearl District Art Gallery Walks

April's variable weather makes indoor cultural activities essential, and Pearl District's First Thursday gallery walk (April 3, 2025) showcases Portland's art scene. Cool evenings are perfect for gallery hopping, and spring exhibitions often feature new collections. Less touristy than summer months with more genuine local art scene exposure.

Booking Tip: Guided art tours cost $45-75 for 2-3 hours covering 6-8 galleries. Many galleries offer free First Thursday events. Book private tours 3-5 days ahead, though drop-in options exist. Look for tours including both established galleries and emerging artist spaces. Current art district tours available in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Early April through early May

Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

Located 72km (45 miles) south of Portland, this festival showcases 40+ acres of blooming tulips with peak colors mid-to-late April. Features photography opportunities, local food vendors, and family activities set against the Cascade Mountain backdrop.

Mid to late April

Hood River Valley Blossom Festival

Celebrates fruit tree blossoms in Hood River Valley with orchard tours, local wine tastings, and scenic drives. Peak timing varies by weather but typically offers spectacular views combining Mt. Hood, Columbia River, and blooming orchards.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof rain jacket with breathability - not just water-resistant, as April brings 10+ rainy days with periods of steady drizzle

Layered clothing system - mornings start at 7°C (45°F) but afternoons can reach 19°C (66°F), requiring easy add/remove layers

Waterproof walking shoes with grip - Portland's wet sidewalks and trail approaches can be slippery, especially on metal grates downtown

Compact umbrella that fits in daypack - sudden showers are common and many outdoor activities continue in light rain

SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 6 and spring sun reflects off wet surfaces more intensely than expected

Quick-dry pants or water-resistant leggings - essential for outdoor activities as traditional jeans stay wet too long

Light fleece or wool sweater - perfect mid-layer for variable temperatures and maintains warmth even when damp

Waterproof phone case or bag - protecting electronics during waterfall hikes and unexpected rain showers

Moisture-wicking base layers - humidity at 70% plus physical activity requires fabrics that breathe and dry quickly

Small backpack with rain cover - for carrying layers you'll add/remove throughout the day and keeping items dry during outdoor activities

Insider Knowledge

Locals embrace 'liquid sunshine' - if you cancel outdoor plans for every drizzle, you'll miss half of April's activities. Light rain is considered normal and most outdoor events continue unless heavy downpours occur

Food carts begin extended hours in April but still close early on rainy days - call ahead or check social media before making dinner plans at cart pods, especially on weekends

Cherry blossom peak timing varies by 7-10 days depending on March temperatures - follow Portland Parks & Recreation social media for real-time bloom reports rather than trusting fixed calendar dates

Public transit ridership increases 30% in April as fair-weather cyclists return to buses and MAX trains on rainy days - factor extra travel time during morning and evening commutes, especially to popular destinations like Washington Park