Welcome to Portland
The independent city of roses with a dazzling cultural flair
Perched on the north side of Willamette Valley 60 miles east of the Pacific Ocean, Portland's gorgeous, Victorian-era architecture, famous food carts, and tax-free shopping has made this cosmopolitan hub a thriving destination for the arts, outdoor dining, and a mindful community known for its unique culture and charm. It is home to many parks, a record-breaking number of craft breweries, and the Oregon Zoo.
Named after Maine's Portland, the 1840s saw an influx of pioneer settlers arriving via the Oregon Trail, and Portland's access to the Pacific Ocean quickly helped the city grow into a major port in the Pacific Northwest. Today, the city has developed a nuanced character, is filled with people from various ethnicities, and offers wonderful cultural attractions. Marked by warm summers and rainy winters, Portland's diverse neighborhoods feature an eclectic mix of single-family bungalows, ranch homes, and exquisite mansions speaking to luxury and taste.
For more real estate options, check out these nearby neighborhoods:
What to Love
- Continental culinary landscape
- Outdoor recreation galore
- Thriving arts and culture scene
- Four distinct seasons a year
- Eco-friendly city
- Glitzy nightlife
Local Lifestyle
Characterized by its ethnically diverse populace, vibrant cultural scene, and eco-friendly charisma, Portland is a lovely place to catch your breath and raise your kids. The city is draped in a distinctive urban-suburban feel that exudes metropolitan vibes with a laid-back ambiance. In Portland, everything active is within a short distance, and culinary variety is a norm with the city's many continental eateries. Locals prioritize good health and a clean environment, and there's always a community to welcome you.
Sustainability
Portland is recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability. The city is ranked as the ninth greenest in the United States, a testament to its policies promoting a green lifestyle, green job opportunities, and energy efficiency initiatives. This green ethos extends to Portland's food scene as well, where it stands out as the number one city in America for vegans and vegetarians. Portland's environmental efforts also include being the first U.S. city to pass a green tax, funding energy efficiency initiatives in under-served communities.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
There's something that makes shopping in Portland very special… Never having to pay sales tax! Isn't this the perfect place to pick up all the brand-name designer bags, vintage goods, and sparkly jewelry you love?
Explore the city's gift of continental restaurants by stopping into the upscale Peruvian Andina for savory plates of lomo saltado, octopus, and yuca frita paired with a mojito, sangria, or wine. Craving waffles topped with cream and fruit? Come to Mother's Bistro, a country-chic eatery specializing in hearty comfort food classics.
While touring the glorious Portland Japanese Gardens, you deserve a place to relax and refresh before heading back into town. Umami Cafe brings the pairing of world-class Japanese tea with gracious service and edible delights in the perfect traditional setting with seamless modern touches. Share a yuzu curd tart with your partner, or place an order for mochi ice cream and chicken fried rice served with matcha tea.
Things to Do
Bring your whole family for a taste of Oregon's exquisite wineries at the annual Portland Seafood and Wine Festival, where yummy delights caught fresh off the water will be accompanied by wine, craft beers, cider, and more!
Come to the Portland Jazz Festival to celebrate the rich local jazz scene. This festival is well-known as a hotspot for international artists performing alongside local artists in a bid to preserve America’s indigenous art form. Not only does the festival provide entertainment, but it also includes education and outreach programs extending to Portland's acclaimed schools.
Tap your heels to jazz and sample ethnic delights while purchasing crafts masterpieces from dozens of local vendors at the largest operating arts-and-crafts fair in the US. The Portland Saturday Market is glorious in all its bazaar-like charisma! Gather with fellow bon vivants, wine aficionados, and art enthusiasts for remarkable art on First Thursday in the Pearl District, when all the galleries are open late into the evening for new show openings, and exhibiting artists are present to meet with you and talk about their work. OMSI is also a favorite for families, as kids love conducting experiments in the interactive labs and watching storms form on a giant globe.
Technological Innovation and Population Growth
Portland is experiencing rapid growth, being the tenth fastest growing city in the U.S. This growth is partly driven by its burgeoning tech industry, earning the city the nickname "Silicon Forest." Home to major tech companies and startups, Portland's tech boom is also complemented by a strong presence of athletic and outdoor companies, such as Nike and Adidas, contributing to a diverse and dynamic economic landscape.
Culture and Art
Portland's rich cultural tapestry is evident in its thriving arts and music scene, and its reputation as one of the best beer cities in America. Its craft beer scene is particularly renowned, with numerous breweries offering a wide array of beer styles. Moreover, the city's artistic flair is visible through its unique street art and numerous music festivals, making it a vibrant hub for artists and musicians.
Schools
Portland is served by the prestigious Portland Public Schools, home to a variety of excellent schools. Here is a great site to get information for Oregon School Reviews
