Winter Survival Guide for 2024 - 2025
1. Attend the Portland Winter Light Festival (Feb 7th - 15th)
With a cup of Hot Cocoa in hand head out for a stroll through the crisp winter air while surrounded by a massive display of lights that is guaranteed to give you all Christmas feels! Save the date: February 7th- 15th, 2025 when this year’s festival promises to light up the city in spectacular fashion.
On your list of stops will be “Portland’s Living Room”, Pioneer Courthouse Square and the World Trade Center Plaza- both will be beautifully illuminated, along with countless storefronts and streets joining the celebration.
The best part? The festival is completely free, with any funds raised supporting a great cause—making it not just a magical event, but a meaningful one, too🎄
(Pro-tip: last year there were 274,000 in attendance so be sure to allow time for parking, take the Max, etc.)
2. Make your way to a Portland museum
Next on the list of winter adventures is a visit to one of Portland’s Museums. For art & culture there’s the Portland Museum of Art where you can immerse yourself in exquisite artwork- plus it's modest size compared to the museums of larger metros just makes it that much more intimate. For the science lovers there OMSI perfect for those of us who love an interactive exhibit as there’s always plenty on hand!
There’s something about a trip to the Museum Of Art with only hushed voices & footfalls filling the space & giving yourself time to remember what it is to spend more than a brief moment with a work of art that makes a person feel new again. We all need a little more wonder in our lives!
Also…we’re not short on romance here either. It is afterall, the nesting season.
3. Relax in the hot springs
If you're looking to get away from the buzz of city life—geting way to one of the 9 hot springs might be just the thing.
Bagby Hot Springs, tucked deep within the lush Mount Hood National Forest, is a hidden treasure that feels worlds apart. The gentle hike through towering trees sets the tone for a magical experience, leading to rustic wooden tubs filled with soothing, naturally heated water.
Surrounded by the quiet whispers of the forest, it’s the perfect spot to unwind, reconnect, and let the rest of the world fade away.
4. Yacht Tub - Hot Tub River Tours
For those who want a more adventurous soak I had to include something weird, that is afterall, kinda our brand here. Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like- a boat with a hot tub that seats 6 that does 2 hour rentals on the Willamette River.
Owner Alex Reed always enjoyed sailing on the Willamette River as a kid & wanted to share that with everyone…in his own entirely unique way. Their custom-built boats resemble compact wake boats that sit low in the water, featuring spacious jetted hot tubs designed to comfortably accommodate up to six passengers.
Powered by nearly silent electric outboard motors under 10 horsepower, these boats can be operated by guests aged 21 and over without the need for a boater’s license. This allows for a leisurely cruise along the Willamette River, offering scenic views of Portland while enjoying snacks and beverages. Steering is managed via an intuitive joystick controller and throttle, making it accessible even for those new to boating.
Each Yacht Tub is equipped with a retractable Bimini top for sun or rain protection and an integrated Bluetooth stereo system, enhancing the on-water experience. The boats are available for rent year-round, but is there ever a better time to hot tub than in the snow? Yacht Tubs on Instagram
5. Knot Springs (one of my favs)
Keeping with the water theme still but much more luxurious this time. In most wet saunas, the steam is often just that—plain, scentless vapor (or worse, tinged with the remnants of a sweaty session). While some bathhouses enhance the experience with staples like eucalyptus, Knot Springs, a wellness haven in Northeast Portland, decided to elevate the sauna experience even further.
Collaborating with the experimental fragrance design studio Maak Lab, Knot Springs created seasonal essential oil blends for both their wet and dry saunas. These blends are inspired by the natural aromas of Portland’s neighborhoods and outdoor spaces. In the wet sauna, the oils infuse the steam, while in the dry sauna, they are added to the ladling water.
Expect earthy, woodsy scents reminiscent of hikes through Forest Park during fall and winter, and lush garden florals evoking the charm of Irvington in the spring and summer. The result is a sensory journey that feels distinctly Portland.
Alli Lurie, Knot Springs’ director of hospitality and a founding team member, shared insights into these blends for those curious to recreate the magic at home. (Spoiler: skip the DIY steam room idea—it’s more complicated than it sounds!)
Fall/Winter Scents for 2024 are:
“You have this perception of sitting in the damp forest of the wintertime,” Lurie says. “It’s almost reminiscent of the holiday scents.”
Noble fir: Pine-like, with woodsy, menthol notes. It’s giving Christmas.
Cedar: A richer, more robust woody scent, with deeper spice character. Sauna-esque.
Oak moss: Musky and earthy. How a forest smells after it rains.
6. A couple additional spa options...
Cascada Hotel & Thermal Springs / Spa
I had to include the brand-new Cascada Hotel & Thermal Springs / Spa, which is scheduled to open on December 17th! Located in the heart of the Alberta Arts District, it will feature Portland's first subterranean hot springs, a solarium pool, and a fitness center.
Cascada will offer 100 hotel units, three restaurants, a coffee bar, and retail spaces. The wellness center spans three floors, featuring hammam-inspired bath and steam rooms, a swimming pool, reception area, gym, and treatment rooms. The second floor includes an indoor/outdoor dining terrace, workspaces, conference rooms, and a bridge leading to the spa's reception area.
I can't wait to try it myself but if you beat me there promise me you'll tell me all about it!
Last but certainly not least, we have The Allison Inn & Spa in Newberg. A local institution since 2009 this luxurious retreat features 85 guest rooms and suites, a 15,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, and 12,000 square feet of meeting space, all nestled on 35 acres just 45 minutes from Portland. For dining, JORY serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is perhaps best known for its extensive wine list of 850 labels, including more than 100 types of Oregon Pinot Noir. Link to Forbes Travel Guide review)
7. First Thursday Art Walk
The First Thursday Art Walk in Portland is a celebration of creativity that brings the Pearl District to life on the first Thursday of each month. The event transforms the neighborhood into an open gallery, featuring an array of work from local and international artists.
As you wander through the streets, you’ll discover galleries, studios, and exhibitions showcasing everything from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed-media pieces. It’s an inspiring experience that invites art lovers to explore a variety of styles and perspectives.
The atmosphere buzzes with energy, as artists and visitors share conversations and connections over their shared love of art. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Portland’s art scene and feel the city’s creative heartbeat.
8. Ice Skating
For the quintessential Portland seasonal ice skating experience, head downtown to the Portland Winter Ice Rink. This outdoor, family-friendly rink is open from November 16 to January 5, offering a festive spot to glide on the ice. Once you’ve had your fill of skating, take a stroll through the nearby Winter Village. Here, you’ll find a charming marketplace with concessions, food, hot drinks, and a cozy lounge to warm up and relax.
Portland also has several year-round ice skating venues, with the Lloyd Center Ice Rink standing out as a notable option. Located in the heart of Northeast Portland's Lloyd Center Mall, this rink is famously known as the training site of Olympian Tonya Harding. Open year-round, the rink becomes especially festive during the holiday season when a giant Christmas tree graces the center of the ice.
Another option is the Winterhawks Skating Center in Beaverton, the official practice facility of the Portland Winterhawks. Additionally, the Sherwood Ice Arena, located about 30 minutes southwest of Portland, offers year-round skating opportunities.
9. Food by the fire
Fireside this aptly named restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with not one but two large fireplaces. Guests can gather around a circular firepit in the back dining room or enjoy the cozy glow of another fireplace in the bar area. The flickering flames evoke the feeling of a campsite, an experience perfectly complemented by the dessert menu’s nod to the outdoors with treats like “fireside s’mores” and “campfire espresso.”🤤
Cartopia, one of Portland’s most beloved food cart pods, ensures a cozy atmosphere year-round with space heaters and several roaring fire pits. The diverse menu has something for everyone, featuring favorites like poutine, crepes, wood-fired pizza, and gourmet PB&Js with plenty of vegan options to satisfy every palate. It’s the perfect spot to gather with friends, enjoy delicious eats, and stay warm while soaking in the lively, communal vibe.
10. Lights, lights, & more lights! 10. Silverton Christmas Market
Christmas Festival Of Lights @ The Grotto (Nov 29th - Dec 30th 2024) is a magical celebration of the season, renowned as the largest Christmas choral festival in the world. Featuring nearly 160 indoor concerts, the festival showcases performances by some of the finest school, church, and civic choirs in the region.
This family-friendly event offers a heartwarming blend of festive cheer and peaceful reflection, creating an atmosphere that embodies the spirit of hope and togetherness that Christmas brings. Each year, it draws thousands of families from across the Pacific Northwest to share in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the holiday season.
Peacock Lane (Dec 15th - 31st 2024) Since 1932, Peacock Lane in Southeast Portland has been a cherished holiday tradition, with each house on this charming street decked out for Christmas. The homes, predominantly Tudor-style, are adorned with dazzling light displays featuring nativity scenes, rotating Christmas trees, and remarkably life-like replicas of festive icons like Santa, Frosty, The Grinch, and other beloved characters, creating a magical holiday atmosphere for all who visit.
Every display reflects the creativity and holiday spirit of the individual homeowners, with some going all out and others opting for a simpler touch. Participation is entirely voluntary—there’s no obligation, just a shared love for spreading seasonal cheer.
For a truly enchanting experience, visit on December 15 or 16, when the street is closed to cars, allowing visitors to wander and soak in the holiday magic at their own pace.
ZooLights (Nov 22nd - Jan 5th 2024) Get ready for the brightest ZooLights yet! This year’s dazzling display features exciting new additions, including a magical meadow light show and dozens of life-size animal lanterns along the train route. With more interactive displays than ever, it’s a holiday experience you won’t want to miss.
Stroll through the famous tunnels of sparkling lights, snap photos with vibrant animal displays, and soak in the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to make holiday memories that will last all year.
11. Silverton Christmas Market (Nov 21st - Dec 31st 2024)
This place is so much fun, chock full of photo ops, & guaranteed to give you all Christmas feels!
This winter, the holiday magic returns bigger and brighter than ever, with 1.5 million lights, dazzling new displays, and an array of festive activities inspired by authentic German Christmas markets.
Stroll through an immersive path illuminated by millions of twinkling lights, enjoy a ride down the snowless tubing hill, and snap a photo with Santa. Savor international cuisine, including Mary’s famous hand-breaded schnitzel sandwich, and relax with a drink in the lively Biergarten while enjoying live music.
Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts at the artisan market, featuring local vendors and authentic German booths offering imported nutcrackers, smokers, and ornaments. Don't miss the nods to German heritage, including collectible mugs, traditional lebkuchen (gingerbread hearts), gluhwein (mulled wine), and a special light display dedicated to Krampus, the legendary German counterpart to St. Nicholas. (Pro-tip: the mugs are adorable & if you bring it back next year you get a discount on your drinks! )
Perfect for the whole family but also a date night - Those scenes in movies where you sigh, and say “aw, I love Christmas…” this is that! So go get your cheeks rosy & get all romantic n’ stuff!☺️
Please note! You'll want to book in advance as things fill up quickly!
Rooms come with full access to the Christmas Market however if you opt for festival day passes you'll also want to buy at LEAST 1 day in advance.
For parking there's free off site parking with shuttle service to grounds or both general admission & VIP parking available on site. (for GM & VIP parking you'll also want to buy at LEAST 1 day in advance as they don't sell parking passes on the day of!)
…And there’s so much more than I could ever fit here!
So if you haven’t found what you’re looking for & you’d like some help planning your next adventure drop me a note anytime!