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Portland Layover Guide (PDX)

What are you looking for in PDX?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Portland Airport (PDX) is an international airport located in Portland, Oregon. It’s situated about 19 km (12 miles) from downtown Portland. The airport officially opened in 1940. Portland is the largest city in Oregon and is widely known for its vibrant arts scene, eco-friendly initiatives, and rich culinary culture. The city also offers easy access to natural attractions, making it a popular destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Can you leave Portland Airport (PDX) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
During a layover at Portland International Airport, you may exit the terminal after completing U.S. Customs and Border Protection procedures. All international travellers without U.S. citizenship or permanent residency must possess an appropriate visa or approved ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Carefully check requirements based on nationality before departure. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Portland Japanese Garden Nestled in Washington Park, this acclaimed garden features tranquil pathways, koi ponds and traditional tea house. A peaceful retreat showcasing Japanese horticulture, seasonal plantings and cultural events throughout the year. (Time required: 1.5 hours / Airport to here: MAX Red Line to Gateway Transit Center, transfer bus 20 to Washington Park (approx 60 minutes))
• International Rose Test Garden Discover over 10,000 rose bushes in this historic garden overlooking downtown. Seasonal blooms offer vibrant colors and fragrances while paths wind through themed beds and shaded viewpoints for perfect photos. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: MAX Red Line to Gateway Transit Center, transfer bus 20 to Washington Park (approx 60 minutes))
• Powell’s City of Books Explore the world’s largest independent bookstore occupying an entire city block. Browse rare editions, enjoy staff picks, and sip coffee in cozy nooks among towering shelves of literature and art. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: MAX Red Line to Pioneer Square South, then walk (approx 45 minutes))
• Lan Su Chinese Garden Step into an authentic Suzhou style garden featuring intricately carved pavilions, koi filled ponds and winding corridors. Enjoy tea ceremonies and cultural exhibitions in this tranquil urban oasis. Seasonal performances. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: MAX Red Line to Old Town/Chinatown station, then walk (approx 40 minutes))
• Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Visit interactive exhibits on science, technology and engineering, including planetarium shows, hands on labs and giant submarine tours. Perfect for curious minds of all ages exploring innovation. Playful activities daily. (Time required: 2 hours / Airport to here: MAX Red Line to PSU South, transfer bus 70 to OMSI (approx 50 minutes))
• Portland Art Museum Browse extensive collections of Native American art, modern paintings and international exhibits. Tour rotating installations, attend guided talks or simply relax in the museum cafe surrounded by creative inspiration daily. (Time required: 1.5 hours / Airport to here: MAX Red Line to Pioneer Square South, then walk (approx 45 minutes))
• Food Cart Pod at 5th & Alder Savor a variety of global street food at this bustling pod featuring over 30 carts. Grab tacos, Ethiopian injera or gourmet grilled cheese in vibrant communal seating alfresco ambiance daily. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: MAX Red Line to Pioneer Square North, then walk two blocks (approx 45 minutes))
• Voodoo Doughnut Indulge in wildly creative doughnuts with unique toppings such as bacon maple and cereal crusts. Open 24 hours, it’s an iconic Portland snack stop beloved by locals and travelers daily. (Time required: 30 minutes / Airport to here: MAX Red Line to Pioneer Square North, then walk to SW 3rd & Ankeny (approx 45 minutes))

Things to Do in Portland Airport (PDX)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Portland International offers several lounges: Alaska Lounge, Delta Sky Club and the Portland Lounge by Global Entry. These spaces feature comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, workstations and shower facilities. Access is via membership programs, business- or first-class tickets, or day passes, providing a quiet retreat from busy terminals. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
No on-site hotel exists, but the Portland Airport Marriott is connected via a covered walkway and offers soundproof rooms, fitness center, restaurant and business services. Several nearby hotels (Holiday Inn, Hilton Garden Inn) provide free airport shuttles and day-use rates. Reservations in advance ensure availability and competitive pricing. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
PDX doesn’t have dedicated sleep pods, but multiple quiet zones with recliner chairs and padded benches are located near Gates C and E. Skylit architecture offers natural light and calming views. Bring a travel pillow and eye mask; these areas are unsecured, so keep valuables close and be mindful of announcements.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals. Simply select “PDX Free Wi-Fi,” accept terms and you’re connected at speeds suitable for browsing, email or streaming. No password is required. Additional charging stations and power outlets are conveniently located near gates, seating areas and charging lounges to keep devices powered.

SIM/eSIM Card: International travelers can purchase SIM cards and portable Wi-Fi devices at the LAX Travel Wireless kiosk near baggage claim or through vending machines in the main terminal. Major U.S. carriers (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon) sell tourist SIMs with data plans. Activate your eSIM before departure or use airport kiosks for assistance. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis line up curbside at the lower-level baggage claim outside each terminal. Flat-rate fares apply to downtown Portland; metered rates to other destinations. Most drivers accept credit cards. Ride-share pickup is located on the west side of the parking garage. Estimated wait times vary with arrival volume, but queues move steadily.

Train: The MAX Red Line light rail connects PDX to downtown Portland in about 38 minutes, running every 15 minutes from 5 am to midnight. Trains board on the lower level adjacent to baggage claim. Adult one-way fares are $2.50; tickets available at kiosks. (more info).

Bus: TriMet’s Line 72 – Airport Way Bus links the airport to important transit hubs and Eastside neighborhoods. Buses depart every 30 minutes from the lower-level curb outside baggage claim. Standard fare ($2.50) covers transfers. Real-time schedules and route maps are available at airport information desks. (more info).

Shuttle: Complimentary hotel shuttles circulate between PDX and nearby accommodations. Look for shuttle zones outside Door 4 on the lower level. Service typically runs every 20–30 minutes; schedules vary by hotel. Shared-ride vans and private shuttle companies also operate from the ground transportation center. Reservations are recommended for private services.

Car rentals: All major rental agencies operate from the Consolidated Rental Car Facility (ConRAC), accessible via free shuttle from the terminal’s lower level (outside Door 3). Counters, vehicle pickup lanes and drop-off are centralized. Pre-book online for best rates and availability. Insurance and add-on options available at each counter upon pickup. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: PDX offers hourly, daily and economy parking options. The short-term garage is adjacent to the terminal for quick access. Long-term economy lots provide free shuttle service every 10 minutes. EV charging stations are available in all garages. Payment via credit card at exit lanes or mobile app ensures seamless departures.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There are no official luggage storage facilities or lockers inside PDX terminals. Travelers seeking storage must use downtown services or rent portable, lockable luggage wraps at airport retail stores. Airlines sometimes offer hold-over services for checked baggage; inquire at your carrier’s ticket counter for special requests. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Portland Airport (PDX) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks