Overview of Portland (Oregon)

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Portland lies about 70 mi (124 km) from the Pacific Coast on the northern border of the state of Oregon, straddling the Willamette River just south of its confluence with the Columbia River at Vancouver, Washington. About 50 mi (80 km) to the east lies majestic Mount Hood, which forms the perfect backdrop for Portland's skyline.

Willamette River runs by downtown Portland and its lush skyline (looking northeast).

Portland is a very urban city, but it isn't overwhelming as some larger cities. Despite being an urban city, there are many lush parks to poke your toes into. Forest Park/Washington Park offer a variety of plants, trails, and wildlife in the hills west of Downtown.

As the largest city between San Francisco and Seattle, Portland vies with those cities as the spiritual capital of the laid-back northern Pacific coast. However, it does so in a way that mixes big-city dynamics with small-town friendliness. Until recently Portland avoided the problems that come with fast growth. Although Portland is now experiencing rapid growth, similar to Seattle, it has been able to keep its unique character.

Progressive city planning practices, such as an urban growth boundary, have made Portland a very compact and user-friendly city. Unlike other metropolitan areas, you can drive 15 mi (24 km) from downtown and be out in the country. However, like other metro areas, driving 15 mi (24 km) during rush hour will take you well over an hour or two, as Portland has some of the worst traffic congestion in the West. Environmentally friendly practices, such as recycling, are part of the culture. Portland is also known for taking creative and unconventional ideas to solve its problems. For example, it tore up a downtown freeway and transformed it into Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Its public transportation system, TriMet www.trimet.org includes the MAX light rail system. The first line of MAX, which has won nationwide acclaim, was built in the 1980s and TriMet continues to build new lines today.

Portland is the microbrewery capital of the world, and much like Seattle's reputation for its coffee houses, Portland's numerous microbreweries have won it nationwide and international acclaim.

Portland is has an exciting blend of historic and modern architecture. Vistas of Mt. Hood and the Willamette River, stately Douglas Fir trees, and roses and trees at every turn give stunning seasonal color. Combine with great art, waterfront festivals and a friendly atmosphere, and this is one very exciting city.

• www.trimet.org