Portland, known as the City of Roses, is the largest and most populous city in the US state of Oregon. Settled in the 1840s at the end of the Oregon Trail, Portland has grown into a thriving metropolitan hub in the Pacific Northwest.
History
Portland was named after Portland, Maine and was officially incorporated in 1851. Early settlers were attracted by the area’s abundance of timber and access to the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, which facilitated transport and trade.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries Portland developed a seedy reputation as a dangerous port city rife with organized crime and racketeering. However the city experienced an economic boom during World War II as shipbuilder Henry J. Kaiser established yards there.
Since the 1990s, Portland has experienced rapid growth and earned a reputation as a hip environmentally conscious and liberal city. It has aggressively pursued creative urban planning and sustainable development, prioritizing walkability, cycling infrastructure, public transit, and urban green spaces.
Geography and Climate
Portland lies near the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers in northwest Oregon. It has a temperate climate marked by warm, dry summers and chilly, rainy winters ideal for growing roses.
The city spans 145 square miles on both sides of the Willamette. Across its bridges are distinctive neighborhoods like hipster hotspot Old Town/Chinatown, the Pearl District with its art galleries and eateries, and historic Nob Hill.
Portland’s proximity to Mt. Hood and the Pacific Ocean provides easy access to hiking, windsurfing, skiing, and other outdoor recreation.
Culture and Lifestyle
Portland is known for its quirky, laid-back vibe and goal to “Keep Portland Weird.” The city boasts a thriving arts scene, independent music venues, microbreweries, distilleries, and coffeehouses galore. Food carts and outdoor markets are plentiful.
Public transit usage is high, and Portland has over 300 miles of bike lanes and paths. Large parks like Forest Park and Washington Park provide urban oases. The city is eco-conscious, with initiatives to protect the environment and support sustainability.
Racial and economic tensions exist alongside Portland’s progressivism. But overall Portland stands out as welcoming, open-minded, and marching to the beat of its own drum.
Economy and Industry
Portland has a diverse, thriving economy. Major industries include technology, healthcare, apparel manufacturing, transportation equipment, and metals. The metro area is home to headquarters for Nike, Columbia Sportswear, adidas America, and Intel among others.
The city is a major transportation hub. The Port of Portland, with its deep seaport and international airport, facilitates trade globally.
Unemployment and housing costs remain issues despite economic growth. But Portland continues to attract young creatives and college graduates at rates far higher than comparable metro areas.
Local Government
Portland has a mayor-council form of government guided by a mayor and 12 city council members. Unique among U.S. cities, Portland has a directly elected regional government called Metro that oversees land use and transportation planning in the metro area.
City government has a reputation for progressive policymaking, with a focus on sustainability, smart growth, public transit, and social services. Grassroots citizen involvement is encouraged through neighborhood associations and volunteer committees.
Looking Ahead
With its beautiful natural surroundings, urban vibrancy, and innovative mindset, Portland is poised to flourish in the coming decades. Civic leaders and residents are committed to making Portland a thriving, sustainable city that maintains its distinct culture while welcoming new people and ideas.
The Rose City’s multifaceted economy, green vision, and energetic local community set it apart as a forward-looking metropolis in tune with the times. Portland embraces change while staying true to its roots – a combination that will serve it well as it continues to evolve.
Use these resources for guidance in the Rose City.
Enjoy Portland’s must-sees and must-eats in our itinerary for first-time visitors to the Rose City.
From travel logistics to lodging and itineraries, our guides will help you plan the Portland experience you’re looking for.
On the ground and ready to explore? The Near Me Now app will ensure you find the nearby can’t miss restaurants, attractions, shops, bars and more.
Illustration by Subin Yang
From tasty food carts to tax-free shopping and free-to-explore wilderness, Portland is yours to share.
You can eat your way across Portland with 500+ food carts to choose from. Our Food Cart Finder can help you find the right meal to satisfy your appetite.
You won’t find a sales tax here, but you will find incredible shopping from handmade and vintage items to designer clothes, jewelry and more.
Portland has something for every type of outdoor enthusiast, from the mountains to the coast and the rivers, forests and gardens in between.
Portland
FAQ
What is Portland most known for?
Southwest Portland is home to many attractions, including Washington Park’s many sights, Goose Hollow’s mix of old and new, the small-town charm of Multnomah Village, and more. It is best known for its lively downtown Portland, which is small and easy to get around on foot.
How far is Portland from the ocean?
HOW FAR IS THE OREGON COAST FROM PORTLAND? Before you go west, you need to learn some basic things about your trip and where you’re going. Portland is only about 80 miles (an hour and a half) from the Pacific Ocean, but it can take up to three hours to drive along the coast.
Is Portland a good place to live?
A recent study by Forbes magazine has ranked Portland as the best city to live in the US. The study looked at metrics such as job growth, quality of life, and affordability. Salem ranked second, followed by Denver, Minneapolis, and Nashville.
Why is Portland, Maine so popular?
Portland is a city full of artists, foodies, beachcombers, and people who love the winter. There is a lot of nightlife, shopping, and tourists. But it’s also a city that easily keeps its small-town feel. That duality is what living in Portland, Maine, is all about. Planning a move to Portland?.