Urban Tour Group is a nonprofit, volunteer organization based in Portland, Oregon, that has offered free downtown tours to third-grade students in the Portland metropolitan area since 1970. Students learn about Portland’s history, architecture, public art, and culture, and that “Good citizens are the riches of a city.” – C.E.S. Wood.
Our members guide students through a choice of three separate tours, each lasting two hours and designed specifically for third graders. We are committed to fostering an awareness and appreciation of the urban environment.
Our mission is to deliver educational and culturally meaningful tours at no cost to either schools or students. We secure funding to provide transportation for schools that serve low-income families.
Elementary school teachers can book one of three tours.
Teachers looking to bring Portland’s history and civic culture alive for their Social Studies programs can choose between three walking tours offered during fall and spring touring seasons:
Monthly Meetings
Typically held on the first Thursday of each month, our general meetings feature both business updates and a guest speaker. We meet at different historic locations around the metro area. Our speakers, who may be civic leaders, historians, authors, or business professionals, offer engaging insights into Portland’s history from many viewpoints. Attendees may opt to enjoy a catered lunch together following each meeting.
We offer comprehensive training.