Gresham Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gresham, Oregon with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore top attractions, hiking trails, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and much more.


Introduction to Gresham

Nestled in the Portland Metropolitan Area, Gresham is a charming city in Oregon that attracts visitors with its natural beauty, diverse cultural attractions, and exciting outdoor activities. With a rich history and culture, Gresham is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the Pacific Northwest’s laid-back vibe. Whether you are an adventure seeker, history buff, or foodie, Gresham has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Gresham

  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
  • Natural Attractions of Gresham: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
  • Hiking/Biking Routes of Gresham
  • Best Things to Do in Gresham: Activities and Tours
  • Week-Long Itinerary for Gresham
  • Food and Drink Scene of Gresham
  • Where to Stay in Gresham: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
  • What to Buy in Gresham: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
  • Local Culture and Customs of Gresham
  • Best Time to Visit Gresham
  • Do’s and Don’ts of Gresham
  • Safety and Health
  • Getting to Gresham: Transportation Options and Logistics
  • How to Get Around in Gresham
  • Where to Go Next from Gresham: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
  • Conclusion

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gresham is home to several museums and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage:

  • The Gresham Pioneer Museum: Founded in 1981, the Gresham Pioneer Museum showcases the city’s history from its early settlement to the present day. Exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays.
  • Zimmerman House Museum: Built-in 1874, the Zimmerman House is a historic Victorian farmhouse that has been restored to its original condition. Visitors can explore the house’s architecture and furnishings, as well as learn about the daily lives of the Zimmerman family.
  • Springwater Trail: This 40-mile trail runs from downtown Portland to Boring, passing through Gresham along the way. The trail follows a former railway route and offers a scenic tour of the city’s natural beauty.

Natural Attractions of Gresham: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gresham is situated in the Pacific Northwest and offers visitors the chance to experience some of the region’s most breathtaking natural attractions:

  • Mount Hood: Gresham is located at the base of Mount Hood, one of the tallest mountains in Oregon. Visitors can take a scenic drive or hike through the mountain’s forests and trails.
  • Powell Butte Nature Park: This 611-acre park offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Cascade Range. Visitors can hike or bike along the park’s many trails.
  • Oxbow Regional Park: Oxbow is a 1,100-acre park that features a beautiful stretch of the Sandy River. Visitors can hike, fish, kayak, or simply relax by the river.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gresham

Gresham is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking trails to choose from:

  • Springwater Corridor: This 40-mile trail stretches from downtown Portland to Boring, passing through Gresham along the way. The trail offers scenic views of the city and surrounding natural areas, with plenty of opportunities for biking, hiking, or jogging.
  • Hiking Trails at Powell Butte: Powell Butte Nature Park has over nine miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The trails feature stunning views of Mount Hood, the city, and the surrounding countryside.
  • Gresham-Fairview Trail: This 6.5-mile trail connects the cities of Gresham and Fairview, passing through residential areas, parks, and natural habitats.

Best Things to Do in Gresham: Activities and Tours

Gresham offers an array of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy:

  • Take a Brewery Tour: Gresham is home to several microbreweries, including the Gresham Brewing Company and the Thunder Island Brewing Company. Take a tour and taste some of the area’s best beers.
  • Visit the Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday, the Gresham Farmers’ Market comes to life with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and locally-made crafts.
  • Attend the Gresham Arts Festival: Each July, the city hosts the Gresham Arts Festival, which is a celebration of local artists and their work.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gresham

Day 1-2: Explore the city’s cultural heritage by visiting the Gresham Pioneer Museum and the Zimmerman House Museum. Take a stroll through historic downtown Gresham, where you’ll find beautiful architecture and charming shops.

Day 3-4: Spend a day hiking or biking along the Springwater Corridor or Powell Butte Nature Park. Take a scenic drive up Mount Hood and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 5-6: Sample some of the city’s best beers by taking a brewery tour or attending a beer festival. Visit the Gresham Farmers’ Market and try some locally-grown produce.

Food and Drink Scene of Gresham

Gresham has a thriving food scene, with a diverse range of options to suit any taste:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Gresham Bowl: A local favorite, the Gresham Bowl is a healthy and delicious meal featuring quinoa, avocado, black beans, and roasted chicken.
  • Oregon Cherry Pie: Made with locally-grown cherries, this dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
  • Craft Beer: Gresham is home to several microbreweries, including the Gresham Brewing Company and the Thunder Island Brewing Company. Sample some of the area’s best beers on a brewery tour.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Gresham has several independent coffee shops that offer a range of specialty beverages, from lattes to cappuccinos.
  • Wine: Oregon is known for its wines, and Gresham is no exception. Visit one of the many local wineries to sample some of the region’s best vintages.

Where to Stay in Gresham: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gresham has a variety of lodging options to suit any budget:

  • Budget-friendly Hostels: Gresham has several hostels that offer affordable accommodations, including the HI Portland Hawthorne Hostel and the Northwest Hostel and Guesthouse.
  • Mid-range Hotels: The Best Western Plus Cascade Inn & Suites and the Clarion Inn Gresham are both popular mid-range hotels.
  • Luxury Hotels: The McMenamins Edgefield and the Resort at The Mountain are two popular luxury hotels in Gresham.

What to Buy in Gresham: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gresham has many unique souvenirs and locally-made products that make great gifts:

  • Handmade jewelry: Gresham has several stores that specialize in handmade jewelry, including Brigitte’s Custom Jewelry and M&M Jewelry.
  • Craft Beer: Bring home a six-pack of some of Gresham’s best craft beer.
  • Locally-made bath and body products: Gresham has several stores that sell locally-made bath and body products, including Soaps and Such and Gresham Natural Bath and Body.

Local Culture and Customs of Gresham

Gresham is a friendly and welcoming city that values community and natural beauty. Residents of Gresham are proud of their city’s heritage and are always happy to share their knowledge and love of the area with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Gresham

The best time to visit Gresham is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is sunny and warm. Spring and fall are also good times to visit, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gresham

Do:

  • Do take advantage of the city’s many natural attractions, including Mount Hood, Powell Butte Nature Park, and the Springwater Corridor trail.
  • Do explore the city’s cultural heritage by visiting museums and historical sites.
  • Do taste some of Gresham’s best beers by taking a brewery tour or attending a beer festival.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to be respectful of the local culture and customs.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your car while hiking or biking in the city’s many natural parks.
  • Don’t litter or leave trash in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gresham

Gresham is a safe city with a low crime rate, but visitors should still exercise caution while exploring the city. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving valuables in your car while hiking or biking.

Health in Gresham

Gresham has several medical facilities, including a hospital and several urgent care centers. Visitors should always carry any necessary medications with them and stay hydrated while hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.

Getting to Gresham: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gresham is located approximately 15 miles east of Portland, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Airports Near Gresham

The nearest airport to Gresham is Portland International Airport (PDX), which is approximately 14 miles west of the city.

Bus Stations Near Gresham

The Gresham Transit Center is located at 239 SE Hogan Rd, Gresham, OR 97080, and offers several bus routes to and from Portland.

Other Options

Uber, Lyft, and taxi services are also available in Gresham.

How to Get Around in Gresham

Gresham has a good public transit system, with several bus lines that connect the city to Portland and other nearby cities. Biking and walking are also popular modes of transportation, with several bike and hiking trails throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Gresham: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Gresham is located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, making it an excellent base for exploring the region’s many natural attractions and nearby cities. Some popular nearby destinations include:

  • Portland, Oregon
  • Mount Hood National Forest
  • Multnomah Falls
  • Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Conclusion

Gresham is a welcoming and vibrant city with something to offer visitors of all interests. Whether you are seeking natural beauty, cultural heritage, or exciting outdoor activities, Gresham has it all. Use this guide to plan your trip to Gresham and experience the best that this Pacific Northwest gem has to offer.