Check out the Columbia River Gorge. Head east on Interstate 84 and, between Portland and Hood River, you'll find a wealth of waterfalls, lookout points and trails along this corridor that follows the Columbia River. You can even cross the Bridge of the Gods and head into Washington to visit the Interpretive Center, a museum that gives the history of the area. The drive along the Old Historic Highway ends at Multnomah Falls, a beautiful waterfall and picnic area.
Head up Mt. Hood for year-round activity. In the winter, this mountain offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding around. For fans of "The Shining," you can visit Timberline Lodge at the top of the mountain where it was filmed. During the spring and summer, Ski Bowl becomes an activity park complete with quarter-mile-long slides and mountain biking. There are several wildflower hikes you can take as well.
Go west and take in the beautiful Oregon coast. About an hour and a half east on Highway 26 will take you to Cannon Beach and Seaside. Head further south to get out of the tourist zone and check out Florence or the aquarium in Newport.
Consider heading up to Portland's northern neighbor, Seattle. It's just over a three-hour drive. Amtrak runs regularly between the two cities, and the views from the train along the Puget Sound are amazing.
Remember that south of Portland you'll find Eugene, Bend and Ashland. Bend is home to Mt. Bachelor and some great fly-fishing. Brush up on your Shakespeare at Ashland's annual festival.
