Don't be shy about asking for discounts, but always carry some kind of identification, such as a driver's license, that shows your date of birth -- especially if you've kept your youthful glow. In Portland most attractions, theaters, and tour companies offer senior discounts. These can add up to substantial savings, but you have to remember to ask.
The U.S. National Park Service offers an America the Beautiful-National Park and Federal Recreational Lands Pass-Senior Pass (formerly the Golden Age Passport), which gives seniors 62 years and older lifetime entrance to all properties administered by the National Park Service -- national parks, monuments, historic sites, recreation areas, and national wildlife refuges -- for a one-time processing fee of $10. The pass must be purchased in person at any NPS facility that charges an entrance fee. Besides free entry, the America the Beautiful Senior Pass also offers a 50% discount on some federal-use fees charged for such facilities as camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, and tours. For more information, go to www.nps.gov/fees_passes.htm or call the United States Geological Survey (USGS), which issues the passes, at tel. 888/275-8747.
Exploritas (tel. 800/454-5768; www.exploritas.com), formerly known as Elderhostel, has long specialized in learning vacations for seniors. Under its new name it is open to anyone 21 and older, but it still knows how to cater to seniors. Lots of Oregon tours are available.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
