Looking for a quieter base near Portland with access to the Gorge and mountain adventures? Head to Gresham! Oregon’s fourth-largest city mixes suburban charm with natural beauty. It’s the perfect launchpad for hiking, biking, and day-tripping through the Pacific Northwest.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gresham is from May through October. Summer and early fall offer warm, dry weather—great for outdoor activities, farmers markets, and nearby waterfall hikes. Winter brings rain, but Mount Hood snow sports are close by.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Gresham is about 30 minutes east of downtown Portland via I-84 or Highway 26.
  • By MAX Light Rail: Take the Blue Line from Portland to multiple Gresham stops—it’s an easy and scenic ride.
  • By Plane: Portland International Airport (PDX) is just 20–25 minutes away by car or rideshare.

Where to Stay

  • Quality Inn Gresham – Comfortable, affordable option with free breakfast and easy highway access.
  • Extended Stay America – Good for longer visits or budget-conscious travelers with kitchenettes and laundry access.
  • Local Airbnbs – Cozy neighborhood stays or rural retreats close to trailheads and Mount Hood views.

Top Attractions

Find Serenity in the Tranquil Gresham Japanese Garden

Find Serenity in the Tranquil Gresham Japanese Garden

© David Gn/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Gresham Japanese Garden?
    • As you cross the beautiful arching bridge to Tsuru Island, you will enter Gresham Japanese Garden, a magical place where on just 3/4 of an acre you can find a lush, rich world like no other.
  • Where is the Gresham Japanese Garden located?
    • The garden is located in Main City Park in Gresham, Oregon.
  • How old is the Gresham Japanese Garden?
    • The Gresham Japanese Garden is four decades old and filled with evergreens, colorful azaleas, and verdant ground covers, growing on an island created by Johnson Creek within the larger 21-acre Main City Park.
  • What can visitors do in the Gresham Japanese Garden?
    • Visitors can take an irregular stone path by the shallow stream, sit on one of many benches, and breathe in the sense of peace the garden exudes.
  • Is there an educational resource for visitors?
    • If you are more scientifically inclined, you can download the PDF of “Jim’s Garden Notes”, which provides a description of the garden from 26 different viewpoints, with information on plants and everything else you are seeing.
  • Where is the Gresham Japanese Garden located?
    • 124 S Main Ave, Gresham, OR 97030, Phone: 503-969-4386

Hike to Scenic Vistas at Hogan Butte Nature Park

Hike to Scenic Vistas at Hogan Butte Nature Park

© MarinoDenisenko/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Hogan Butte Nature Park?
    • Hogan Butte Nature Park is the newest park in Gresham, Oregon, sitting on 46 acres on top of Hogan Butte in the Butte Neighborhood.
  • What can visitors see from the top of Hogan Butte?
    • At the top, at an elevation of 930 feet, a famous “Volcanic Viewpoint” offers a panoramic view of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Rainier, the Columbia River Gorge, and the entire city of Gresham.
  • What trails and amenities does the park offer?
    • The park features a half-mile long paved interpretive loop trail and a pleasant picnic area with forest views.
  • Are there picnic facilities at Hogan Butte Nature Park?
    • Yes, there are a few picnic shelters and tables with benches, as well as educational signs along the trail.
  • What is the geological significance of Hogan Butte?
    • Hogan Butte is a 930-foot inactive volcanic vent and part of the large Boring Lava Field, which includes Mount Tabor, Powell Butte, Beacon Rock, and about 80 other small volcanic features.
  • Where is Hogan Butte Nature Park located?
    • 757 SE Gabbert Rd, Gresham, OR 97080, Phone: 503-618-2300

If you are a photographer:

Enjoy a Peaceful Stroll Through Nadaka Nature Park

Enjoy a Peaceful Stroll Through Nadaka Nature Park

© thithawat/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Nadaka Nature Park?
    • Nadaka Nature Park is a 10-acre wooded park in the Rockwood Neighborhood of Gresham, Oregon.
  • What amenities does Nadaka Nature Park offer?
    • The park features a playground, community garden, covered picnic area, and a pleasant nature trail.
  • When was the property for Nadaka Nature Park acquired?
    • The property for the park was acquired from the Camp Fire Girl organization in 1995.
  • What trails and play areas are in the park?
    • The park features a soft-surfaced, 46-mile Nadaka Loop Trail and a fascinating nature-based play area for children.
  • When was Nadaka Nature Park officially established?
    • The park was officially established in April 2015.
  • What community activities take place at Nadaka Nature Park?
    • The park hosts frequent free community events, including nature walks, bird walks, and clean-ups.
  • What is Nadaka Gardens?
    • Nadaka Gardens has 58 framed plots in its community garden.
  • Where is Nadaka Nature Park located?
    • 17615 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR 97230, Phone: 503-956-8558

Step Back in Time at the Zimmerman House Museum and Gardens

Step Back in Time at the Zimmerman House Museum and Gardens

© Zimmerman House Museum and Gardens

  • What is the Historic Zimmerman House Museum?
    • The Historic Zimmerman House Museum is a turn-of-the-century farmhouse located in Northwest Gresham, Oregon.
  • How large is the property of the Zimmerman House?
    • The farmhouse sits on 5.98 acres, a piece of land left from the original dairy farmstead that once occupied 600 acres of reclaimed land along the Columbia River.
  • Who purchased the Zimmerman farm and when?
    • In 1869, the farm was bought by Jacob and Lena Zimmerman.
  • How long did the Zimmerman family live on the farm?
    • The Zimmerman family lived in the house and worked the farm until 1992.
  • How did the farm become a historic house museum?
    • The farm and house were deeded to the organization ECHO to be developed as a historic house museum.
  • When was the land donated to the City of Gresham?
    • In 1994, the land was donated to the City of Gresham for the creation of a community park.
  • What can visitors see inside the Zimmerman House Museum?
    • The house is filled with thousands of original artifacts belonging to the Zimmerman family.
  • Where is the Historic Zimmerman House Museum located?
    • 17111 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97230, Phone: 503-618-0946

Where to Eat

Savor Authentic Middle Eastern Flavors at Nicholas Restaurant

Savor Authentic Middle Eastern Flavors at Nicholas Restaurant

© Nicholas Restaurant

  • What is Nicholas Restaurant?
    • Nicholas Restaurant is an unpretentious eatery in Gresham, Oregon, specializing in authentic Lebanese & Mediterranean cuisine.
  • What is the atmosphere like at Nicholas Restaurant?
    • The place is small and cozy, with warm-colored walls decorated with original art and photographs.
  • Is Nicholas Restaurant popular with locals?
    • Yes, the restaurant is very popular with locals and can get very busy at times.
  • Does Nicholas Restaurant offer vegan and vegetarian options?
    • Yes, the menu includes many options for vegans and vegetarians.
  • Are there gluten-free options available?
    • Yes, there are gluten-free options to choose from as well.
  • Where does Nicholas Restaurant source its ingredients?
    • The restaurant works with local farmers to ensure fresh, locally sourced produce.
  • What types of food are on the menu?
    • The menu is extensive, featuring bowls, sandwiches, salads, soups, and plates bursting with flavors and colors.
  • Does Nicholas Restaurant serve drinks?
    • Yes, Nicholas has a small but nice selection of beers and wines, along with teas, coffees, and juices.
  • Where is Nicholas Restaurant located?
    • 323 N Main Ave, Gresham, OR 97030, Phone: 503-666-3333

Dig Into Classic American Fare at Original Roadhouse Grill

Dig Into Classic American Fare at Original Roadhouse Grill

© Original Roadhouse Grill

  • What is Original Roadhouse Grill?
    • Original Roadhouse Grill is a chain of casual, family steakhouse restaurants serving delicious hand-cut mesquite grilled steaks, succulent barbecue ribs, and fresh baked rolls.
  • What other menu options are available?
    • Guests can enjoy freshly ground steak burgers or a selection from their bison menu.
  • What appetizers does Original Roadhouse Grill offer?
    • To start, guests can try their Texas Egg Rolls or buffalo wings.
  • What drinks are available at the Saloon?
    • The Saloon serves a full range of cocktails and other drinks.
  • What are some unique features of the restaurant?
    • The vintage jukebox is a signature item, and so are peanut shells on the floor. Each table gets a bucket of peanuts, and throwing shells on the floor is encouraged.
  • What is the atmosphere like at the Gresham location?
    • The Gresham location is spacious and warm, with a family-friendly atmosphere, a large menu of everyone’s favorites, incredible steaks, and cold drinks.
  • Where is Original Roadhouse Grill in Gresham located?
    • 2370 SE Burnside Rd, Gresham, OR 97080, Phone: 503-666-2624

If you are a first time visitor:

  • Downtown Gresham – Stroll boutique shops, local cafés, and public art along Main Avenue.
  • Springwater Corridor Trail – Popular biking and walking trail connecting Gresham to Portland and beyond.
  • Mt. Hood Community College Planetarium – Monthly stargazing shows open to the public (check schedule).
  • Gresham Farmers’ Market (May–October) – Local produce, crafts, and food trucks in a fun weekend atmosphere.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Gresham Arts Festival (July) – One of Oregon’s largest art events with over 100 local artists and live entertainment.
  • Music Mondays (Summer) – Free evening concerts in downtown Gresham featuring regional bands and food vendors.
  • Spirit of Christmas Tree Lighting (Late November) – A festive tradition with lights, hot cocoa, and carolers downtown.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Gresham, Oregon:

  • Multnomah Falls (30 min) – Iconic 620-foot waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge with easy trails and breathtaking views.
  • Troutdale (10 min) – Gateway to the Gorge with antique shops, local brews, and scenic drives along the Historic Columbia River Highway.
  • Portland (30 min via MAX or car) – Explore food trucks, Powell’s Books, the Rose Garden, or catch a Blazers game.
  • Sandy River Delta (20 min) – Pet-friendly park with miles of trails and off-leash fun near the Columbia River.
  • Mount Hood National Forest (30 min to trailheads) – Hike, ski, or snowshoe in Oregon’s outdoor playground.
  • Oxbow Regional Park (20 min) – Fish, float, or hike in this wooded park along the Sandy River.
  • Powell Butte Nature Park (15 min) – Hike or bike to open meadows and enjoy panoramic views of the Cascades.
  • Clackamas Town Center (25 min) – Shop big brands, dine, or catch a movie at this nearby shopping hub.
  • Historic Edgefield (McMenamins) (15 min) – Stay, eat, drink, and unwind at this quirky hotel, brewery, winery, and music venue in one.

FAQ

  • Where is Gresham located?
    • Gresham is a city in Multnomah County, Oregon, just east of Portland. It is situated between the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood.
  • What are some attractions in Gresham?
    • Gresham boasts a charming historic downtown, 17 parks, and the famous Mt. Hood Jazz Festival. Notable parks include:
      • Gresham Japanese Garden: A peaceful oasis with lush greenery, a stream, and benches located within Main City Park.
      • Hogan Butte Nature Park: Located on top of Hogan Butte, offering magnificent views of the city and surrounding mountains.
      • Nadaka Nature Park: Known for its naturalistic kids' park and the 46-mile Nadaka Loop Trail.

Plan Your Trip