When people think of Portland, Oregon, they often imagine lush forests, eccentric neighborhoods, and a vibrant arts scene. However, there is so much more beneath the surface that makes this city one of a kind. From historic coin tosses to famous statues and quirky laws, Portland’s personality is anything but ordinary. 

Whether you are a long-time resident or just moving to Rose City, here are 14 fun facts about Portland, Oregon, that showcase its uniqueness.

1. Portland’s Name Was Determined by a Coin Toss

In 1845, Asa Lovejoy and Francis Pettygrove couldn’t agree on what to name the city they were establishing. Pettygrove wanted Portland, after his hometown in Maine, while Lovejoy preferred Boston. 

To settle the dispute, they flipped a coin—the famous “Portland Penny,” now displayed at the Oregon Historical Society. So, thanks to a simple coin flip, we now have Portland, Oregon, and not Boston, Oregon.

2. The World’s Smallest Park

What is Portland known for, if not its quirky landmarks? Mill Ends Park, located in downtown Portland, holds the record for the world’s smallest park. This circular “park” measures only two feet across and started as a flower-planting spot in an unused light pole hole. Despite its tiny size, locals love it, and visitors marvel at how this micro park represents Portland’s quirky spirit.

3. Bike Lanes in the Middle of the Street

Another fun fact about Portland, Oregon, is its bike lanes. With over 400 miles of bike lanes and paths, Portland is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S. Some areas even have bike lanes running through the center of the road! This unique setup at intersections like SE Stark and 41st Street shows Portland’s dedication to promoting sustainable transportation while making bike travel easier and safer.

4. Pioneer Courthouse Square—Portland’s “Living Room”

Known as “Portland’s Living Room,” Pioneer Courthouse Square is the city’s heart, hosting over 300 events each year. Residents and visitors alike gather here for concerts, festivals, and community gatherings. With its iconic brick design and central location, the square feels like a cozy community hub right in the middle of bustling downtown Portland.

5. The Largest Independently Owned Bookstore in the World

Another Portland, Oregon, fun fact is Powell’s City of Books, a book lover’s paradise covering an entire city block with over one million books. The sheer volume of books at Powell’s is impressive enough, but what truly makes it special is the range—from rare collectibles to newly published novels. You could spend hours exploring, and still, each visit brings something new to discover.

6. Portland Has an Urban Volcano

A fun fact about Portland, Oregon, is that it has an extinct volcanic cinder cone, Mount Tabor, right in the middle of the city, which now serves as a public park. Portland is one of the few cities in the U.S. with a dormant volcano within city limits, offering residents and visitors a unique spot for outdoor activities with a volcanic twist. 

7. The Iconic “Keep Portland Weird” Slogan

One of the most recognized slogans here, “Keep Portland Weird,” perfectly sums up the local culture. This phrase, inspired by Austin, Texas, celebrates Portland’s individuality and the community’s embrace of everything unique and unusual. For newcomers, the motto serves as a reminder to appreciate the city’s eccentric spirit.

8. World Naked Bike Ride Tradition

Every year, thousands of Portlanders participate in the World Naked Bike Ride, an event that’s as bold as it sounds. The ride aims to promote body positivity and raise awareness about reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This tradition might seem unusual, but it’s a well-loved and talked-about part of Portland’s event calendar.

9. Heritage Trees in Portland

Portland honors its rich history and natural environment through the Heritage Tree Program. Since 1994, the city has designated over 300 trees that have historic or horticultural significance. Each tree is marked with a plaque, and these special trees are protected as natural landmarks, symbolizing Portland’s dedication to preserving its greenery.

10. The Annual Adult Soapbox Derby

Held every summer at Mount Tabor Park, the Adult Soapbox Derby attracts thousands of spectators who come to see participants race down the park’s hills in creative, hand-built carts. The event brings out Portland’s playful side, as competitors dress up in costumes and design their vehicles to reflect various themes. It’s one of the many Portland, Oregon, fun facts that highlight the city’s creative community.

11. A Doughnut Wedding at Voodoo Doughnut

For couples who want an unconventional wedding, Voodoo Doughnut in Portland offers ceremonies right in their doughnut shop. Couples can tie the knot surrounded by pink walls and, of course, doughnuts. This unique venue is just one of the reasons Voodoo Doughnut is a favorite stop for tourists and locals alike.

12. Portland’s Largest Arcade Venue Comes with a Bar

QuarterWorld, the largest arcade in Portland, combines vintage gaming with a full bar. It’s a lively spot for adults to play pinball and classic arcade games while enjoying a cocktail or two. From nostalgic gaming experiences to themed drinks, QuarterWorld brings a playful twist to Portland’s nightlife scene and adds another fun fact about Portland, Oregon, to its list of unique attractions.

13. The International Rose Test Garden

Known as the “City of Roses,” Portland is home to the International Rose Test Garden, the longest-running public rose garden in the United States. Established during World War I to protect unique varieties, the garden now contains over 10,000 rose bushes. Every year, locals and tourists flock here to see the roses in full bloom, adding to the list of fun facts about Portland that make the city a true garden lover’s paradise.

14. Benson Bubblers—Portland’s Unique Drinking Fountains

Portland’s Benson Bubblers are more than just drinking fountains—they are a beloved part of the city’s landscape. Designed by businessman Simon Benson in 1912, these bronze fountains were initially intended to discourage workers from drinking alcohol on the job by providing free drinking water. Today, they are symbols of the city and are found all over downtown Portland, giving visitors a taste of Portland’s history with every sip.

Discover Your Move to Portland with Budget Movers

Are you curious to explore Portland for yourself? Our team at Budget Movers can help you start the next chapter in this fascinating city. We’re here to make your move smooth so you can get to know your new city without any worries. Let us handle the logistics while you start exploring the fun and unforgettable quirks of Portland, Oregon!