What To Do in Portland, Oregon, in October 2026

What To Do in Portland in October 2026

Posted on October 1

Rachel Monahan

Check out the colors. (Andy Friedman)

Check out these classic October outings:

🌽 Corn Mazes

It’s hard to think of a more classic fall activity. Contributor Brianna Wheeler has some picks for places to go on Sauvie Island. Her pro tip: Go early in the season to avoid the crowds.

The Pumpkin Patch has the Maize — your classic Portland outing.
Bella Organic’s maze always has a message. This year’s is “Kind Acts.” Tip: Don’t miss their food court.
Fazio Farms Check out their events and “the best elote” — says Brianna. Their farm stand alone is a reason to go.

🍁 Fall Foliage

The leaves are turning. It’s time to get out into nature. Here are some options:

Close in: The Maple Trail (Forest Park). The leaves are already turning.
Day hike: Indian Heaven (Gifford Pinchot). Maple and larch trees, along with huckleberry bushes, turn the landscape a beautiful color.
Overnight trip: North Cascades (Washington). Larch Madness takes over the region, as subalpine larches paint the landscape a golden yellow!

Also, check out our past guides for fall hikes, including where to see larches.

🎃 Halloween (Of Course)

The month ends with Halloween, but plenty of houses are already decked out. Some local bars are getting in the spirit too — Dear Sandy becomes Fear Sandy. LaVerne’s is hosting “Pass the Hatchet,” which they call a Bayou-Gothic Halloween event that promises a “spooky menu.” McMenamins has multiple pop-up bars honoring Samhain, an ancient Celtic festival.