Before you head out to explore parks further afield, take a stroll through one of Portland's most popular urban spaces: the Tom McCall Waterfront Park, overlooking the Willamette River. There's usually plenty of activity here, given all of the cyclists, skateboarders, joggers, and picnickers that come here, but even more, come to attend major outdoor events and festivals held here throughout the year. On hot summer days, many flock to the refreshing Salmon Street Springs.

If you want to experience Newcastle from its most colourful side, join the Street Art Tours. The team of graffiti buffs and spray-paint enthusiasts take you to creative places with a story. While passing oversized art on foot or bike, you get background information on artists, insights on techniques and new perspectives on the city’s creative scene. The meeting point is near the water fountain at The Signal Box next to Queens Wharf Light Rail Stop. Make sure you call ahead of time to book your spot.

Experience firsthand why Portland is known as the "City of Roses" by visiting its Rose Test Garden, the oldest official rose garden in the U.S. Established during World War I, the garden was originally created as a refuge for roses threatened by bombings and potential extinction. Not only did the roses survive, but they have continued to thrive and bloom in Portland. The garden is open to visitors from April through October, with the peak bloom occurring in June.

The town of Punta Gorda is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and for being a popular destination away from the crowds. What makes Punta Gorda an interesting place to visit, is the Garifuna People — the oldest settlement on the island. They speak their own language and still keep the own traditions and culture alive. The locals also have their own cuisine which combines seafood, coconut milk, plantains, bananas and other local ingredients. Sunday is considered to be the best day to visit the town as it is a festive day for the Garifuna People.