Hillsboro Civic Center and its public fountain plaza

On a budget

Free things to do in Hillsboro

3 kinds of free outings in and around Hillsboro.

Good days out in Hillsboro don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.

Libraries

Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.

  • Hillsboro Public Library2850 Ne Brookwood Pkwy
  • Shute Park Branch775 Se Tenth Ave
See all 2 →

Hiking

Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.

  • Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge11 mi southeast
  • Henry Hagg Lake15 mi west
  • Sandy Wild and Scenic River31 mi east
See all 24 →

Wildlife viewing

Birding and nature watching on public land.

  • Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge11 mi southeast
  • Fort Vancouver National Historic Site15 mi northeast
  • Henry Hagg Lake15 mi west
See all 27 →

Get a feel for the city

Hillsboro, Oregon (Orenco Station, Downtown) 4K Walking Tour Binaural Audio video thumbnail

A WALK AROUND TOWN

Hillsboro, Oregon (Orenco Station, Downtown) 4K Walking Tour Binaural Audio

A recorded walk through Orenco Station and downtown Hillsboro, showing neighborhood streets and civic surroundings.

Watch on YouTube ↗
Walking Tour of "The Streets of Tanasbourne" in Hillsboro, Oregon video thumbnail

A WALK AROUND TOWN

Walking Tour of "The Streets of Tanasbourne" in Hillsboro, Oregon

A creator-led walk around the Streets of Tanasbourne shopping area in Hillsboro.

Watch on YouTube ↗

Questions

What are free things to do in Hillsboro?

Libraries, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.

Are there free events in Hillsboro this weekend?

Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.

Do I need a library card to use the library?

No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.

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