About Portland

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From natural wonders to culture and cuisine, Portland is an irresistibly green city that is the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Portland has a temperate climate with an average temperature of 76 F (24.4 C) and low humidity in July. More than 2.2 million people line in the Portland metropolitan area.

What makes Portland so special?

Some will tell you it’s all about the trees, fresh air and proximity to the mountains, rivers and ocean. Others think the indie music and arts scenes make the city come to life ... not to mention the amazing food and drink available.

Transit

Portland’s public transit system, modern streetcar line, aerial tram, and pedestrian-friendly downtown make it easy to get around the city.

Parks & Gardens

In a city as green as Portland, it’s no wonder that some of the top attractions are found outdoors. Known as the “City of Roses,” Portland boasts the International Rose Test Garden which features more than 10,000 roses.

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Attractions & Museums

Step back in time, take in expansive city views and get hands-on with science and nature at Portland’s museums. The Oregon History Museum introduces visitors to Oregon’s intriguing past with an impressive collection of artifacts, artwork, and interactive displays. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry features fun exhibits, the Northwest’s largest planetarium, and the USS Blueback, a decommissioned U.S. Navy submarine.

The city’s creative side shines at art institutions and gallery walks featuring local artwork. The Portland Art Museum is noted for its Native American art and outdoor sculpture garden.

Shopping

In Portland, you’ll find everything you expect from world-class shopping – except the sales tax. Portland’s Saturday Market is the nation’s longest-running open-air crafts market offering items from more than 350 artists.

Dining

Portland is surrounded by fertile farmland; local chefs make the most of the bounty, tailoring their menus to focus on the freshest offerings from the farmers’ market. Foodies can visit one of the more than 50 breweries within city limits or more than 600 food carts. There are many places to eat around the Oregon Convention Center.

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One of the West’s mightiest rivers carved the majestic basalt bluffs of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, an 80-mile stretch east of Portland rife with hiking options.

Mount Hood

Mount Hood is Oregon’s tallest peak at 11,235 feet. It takes just over an hour to get there from Portland. A scenic byway loops around the mountain, connecting three of Oregon’s unique natural wonders: Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, and Multnomah Falls. The route can be driven in as little as three hours.

Wineries

Nearby Tualatin Valley and Willamette Valley are home to more than 30 wineries where guests can sample Oregon’s signature grape, pinot noir.