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Guide to Portland, USA - Oregon
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Portland
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PortlandOregons capital city is in tune with the rest of the states fixation on nature, but one cant neglect to mention that Portland is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, and is a very influential center of commerce for the west coast. It has been charted repeatedly as one of the countrys top cities for residential living. Divided by the Willamette River, Portland is full of laid-back districts where executives do business at corner cafes and bankers rarely wear dress ties. The city seemingly looks deserted as well on weekends, a result of the outdoor-mentality that its inhabitants hold. The beautiful hills and waters straddling the city will beckon the adventurer in you as well!
When to go:
One usually presumes by its location that Portland gets buckets of rain throughout the year; those presumptions are quite false. While the winter months see an average of 6 inches of rainfall, the summer months each see an inch at most. Because summer days are so dry, sunny and warm, you would think that the city would be crowded by both vacationers and locals, and you would be right. The best time of year to visit Portland is in autumn. The crowds have dissipated greatly by then, and youll get a few festivals and beautiful scenery. Factor in long days and you couldnt ask for anything better!
Getting there and around:
Portland International Airport mostly services flights to/from US and Canadian cities. International flights are somewhat sketchy when talking about long distances; sometimes you may have to stop over at the largest flight center on the west coast, LAX. Portland International Airport is fairly close to the city, making a short 15 minute drive quite a breeze. The beautiful countryside will surely take your mind off the ride, but whos not to say you may even enjoy it? The Tri-Met runs buses between the airport and downtown Portland, and youll find taxis and airport shuttles waiting outside the terminal if you wish to go with something different.
City transportation is covered mostly by Tri-Met buses and light-rail trains. Theyre both free within the downtown area, and a small-fee ticket will allow you to explore the greater Portland area, each allowing a two-hour timeframe. If you feel like getting around via taxi, be prepared for the pricey fares.
Attractions:
If you feel like starting your exploration of the city with a little sight-seeing, you can start at the Portland Building, allegedly the worlds first major structure in the postmodern style. The building was designed by Michael Graves to house the citys government bureaus; interestingly enough, the faade was done in a pastel combination with lends somewhat of a friendly, inviting image to the citys governing body. Outside the Portland Building stands the second-largest hammered-copper statue in the world, Portlandia, beaten by the copper segment of the Statue of Liberty.
The Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a great place to spend a few hours, or even stop and gather for a picnic. Along the Willamette River youll see joggers, in-line skaters, strollers, sun-bathers, and more throughout the day. In the summer, the park is frequently packed with locals and residents from the region during festivals and concerts. Near the park youll find the Salmon Springs Fountain, where programmed water jets provide distraction for the citys busy commuters. During rush hour the fountain is in its full splendor.
Chinatown, the Hawthorne District, and Old Town are also fantastic places to stroll through, where youll find everything from ethnically-specialized restaurants to independent bookstores. Street life creates an aura of joviality, so hand it to the people of Portland for sharing in the upbeat vibe.
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