As the sun warms the Pacific Northwest, Portland comes alive with endless summer activities. From vibrant community events to thrilling outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a local or just stopping through, discovering the lesser-known summer activities in the PNW can make your summer unforgettable.

In this article, we'll explore some of the top summer activities in Portland and the must-have gear to make the most of them. Gear up and get ready for an unforgettable summer with North St. Bags by your side!

BikePortland’s Bike Happy Hour

A group of cyclists standing at Bike Happy Hour

Portland's Bike Happy Hour is the place to be on Wednesdays! Grab your bike and head over to SE Ankeny every Wednesday from 3-6pm, all year long, rain or shine. Enjoy $2 off all drinks from Gorges Beer Co., Ankeny Tap & Table, and Crema Coffee. Bike Happy Hour is a great way to connect with the community by simply showing up and being nice! This is a family & dog friendly event and encourages an open, vibrant, inclusive environment. We love bringing our Fuel Pouch to events like these—it's compact and perfect for carrying just the essentials.

Portland’s Pedalpalooza

A group of cyclists with a bridge in the background

Portland's cycling culture peaks during the summer with the multi-week Pedalpalooza, featuring over 200 local-led, themed rides open to the public. This unique event stands out as a summer-long open-source festival where anyone can host a ride. Riders of all ages are welcome to join hundreds of independently organized events, from themed rides to the famous World Naked Bike Ride. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded bikers and embrace the city's vibrant cycling community. View the Pedalpalooza calendar here! No matter which kind of ride you prefer, bring along the Pioneer 8 Hip Pack to easily store your phone, snacks, bike tools, and more.

Kickstand Comedy in the Park

A group of cyclists sitting in the grass together

Enjoy comedy all summer long with Kickstand Comedy in the Park at the iconic Laurelhurst park in SE Portland. Kickstand Comedy is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to cultivating an inclusive comedy scene for locals of the city. With free shows every Friday at 6:30pm, comedy in the park features Portland’s favorite local and national comics. This event is family friendly and is a great way to wind down after a long week. 

For the ultimate summer activity, stick the Commuter Micro Pannier 14L on your bike and ride over to Laurelhurst park. This essential bike bag for summer lets you load up with snacks and drinks for a fun night in the park!

Portland's summer activities offer endless opportunities for adventure and community engagement. Embrace the season, connect with your neighbors, and make this summer unforgettable by exploring all that Portland has to offer! For more fun and exploration in the PNW, be sure to check out our blog post on the Hidden Gems of the PNW.

Curtis Williams