Welcome to
Portland
Portland is a vibrant city with a small town feeling. Downtown offers eclectic shops and world-class entertainment venues, and trendy neighborhoods abound. The forests, rivers, mountains, and Pacific coast make outdoor activities exciting, and the growing tech industry makes Portland a highly desirable place ot live, study, and work.
Population
Metro Area: 2.4 million
City: ~650,000
Location
Close to Seattle + San Francisco, just across the Columbia River from Washington state.
Growing Tech Industry
“Silicon Forest” -- over 75 tech companies with headquarters or branches in the greater
Portland area.
Attractions
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Timbers Soccer (MLS) & Trail Blazers Basketball (NBA)
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Oregon Coast, Mt. Hood, forests, waterfalls
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Ranked among top bike-friendly cities in the US
Explore Our Favorite
Spots in Portland!
Scroll down or click to see some of our favorite things to do and places to see near campus, such as attractions, food, outdoors, museums, performing arts, sports,
and shopping.
The Portland Farmers Market is a bustling hub of local produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods, where visitors can immerse themselves in the city's vibrant culinary and artistic community while enjoying live music and a wide variety of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Powell's City of Books is a book lover's paradise, spanning an entire city block and housing an immense collection of new and used books, inviting readers to get lost among its many shelves and explore a world of literary treasures.
Portland's scenic waterfront along the Willamette River is a picturesque setting for outdoor activities, offering a delightful blend of parks, walking and biking paths, as well as numerous festivals and events that take advantage of its stunning backdrop.
The Oregon Zoo provides a fun and educational experience for all ages, showcasing a diverse range of animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats, while also focusing on conservation efforts and wildlife education.
Multnomah Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Columbia River Gorge, featuring a stunning 620-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and accessible via a short hike, making it one of Oregon's most iconic and easily accessible natural attractions.
Cartopia is a food cart pod in Portland known for its diverse and delicious offerings, where foodies can sample a wide array of cuisines from around the world, all conveniently served from food trucks and carts.
Voodoo Doughnut is a quirky and famous doughnut shop that attracts both locals and tourists with its unique and unconventional doughnut creations, including the iconic Voodoo Doll doughnut filled with raspberry jelly.
The Portland Japanese Garden is a serene oasis nestled within the city, featuring meticulously landscaped gardens, traditional Japanese architecture, and tranquil ponds, providing a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Japanese culture and aesthetics.
Mama Chow Chinese Food is a beloved Portland eatery known for its authentic and flavorful Chinese cuisine, offering a menu filled with classics like General Tso's chicken and mouthwatering dim sum dishes, creating a delightful dining experience for lovers of Chinese fare.
Fifty Licks Ice Cream is a popular dessert destination in Portland, famous for its artisanal ice creams crafted in small batches with creative and unique flavors like Thai Rice and Sweet Potato with Candied Pecans, providing a sweet treat for ice cream enthusiasts.
Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen is a vibrant and bustling restaurant in Portland's downtown area, serving up delectable Vietnamese street food classics, including pho, banh mi sandwiches, and rice dishes, all in a lively and energetic atmosphere.
Eem Thai Food is a fusion restaurant in Portland that offers a tantalizing blend of Thai and Texas barbecue flavors, with dishes like smoked brisket khao soi and green curry mac 'n' cheese, creating a unique and mouthwatering culinary experience for adventurous foodies.
Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, covering over 5,000 acres of lush greenery and offering a network of hiking trails that wind through serene woodlands, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility within the city.
Tryon Creek State Park is an urban oasis nestled within Portland, offering over 600 acres of old-growth forest, hiking trails, and a winding creek, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature exploration.
Washington Park is a sprawling urban park that houses a variety of attractions, including the Oregon Zoo, the Portland Japanese Garden, and the World Forestry Center, providing visitors with a diverse array of cultural and natural experiences. Within Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden showcases over 10,000 rose bushes of different varieties and is a stunning spot to stroll through, offering breathtaking views of the city and the majestic Mt. Hood in the distance.
Mt. Tabor Park is a unique urban park situated on the extinct volcanic cinder cone of Mt. Tabor, featuring hiking trails, reservoirs, and lush greenery, making it a popular spot for both outdoor recreation and scenic picnics.
Museums
The Portland Art Museum is a cultural gem in the heart of the city, boasting an extensive collection of art spanning centuries and cultures. With a diverse range of exhibits, including European masters, contemporary works, and indigenous art, it offers visitors a captivating journey through the world of visual art and creativity.
OMSI is a dynamic and interactive science museum that ignites curiosity and fascination with science, technology, and innovation. With hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and educational programs, OMSI inspires visitors of all ages to explore the wonders of the natural world and the marvels of human achievement.
Performing Arts
The Crystal Ballroom is an iconic music and events venue in Portland, known for its historic charm and legendary dance floor made of bouncy wooden planks. Hosting a wide range of concerts and events, it's a favorite destination for music lovers seeking an unforgettable live music experience.
Revolution Hall is a versatile performance space located in a renovated school building, offering a unique setting for concerts, comedy shows, and other live entertainment. With its intimate atmosphere and stunning city views, it provides a dynamic platform for artists and audiences to connect.
Keller Auditorium is Portland's premier venue for world-class performing arts, featuring opera, ballet, Broadway shows, and symphony performances in an elegant and acoustically superb setting. Renowned for its grandeur and cultural significance, it's a cherished space for experiencing the finest in the performing arts.
The Aladdin Theater is an intimate and historic venue that hosts a wide range of concerts and live performances, showcasing both emerging and established artists. With its cozy atmosphere and excellent sound quality, it offers a unique and up-close experience for music enthusiasts.
Sports
The Portland Trail Blazers are the city's beloved NBA basketball team, playing their home games at the Moda Center and captivating fans with their exciting on-court action and passionate following.
The Portland Timbers are a dynamic Major League Soccer (MLS) team, known for their enthusiastic fan base and electrifying matches at Providence Park, where the atmosphere is always charged with energy and excitement.
The Portland Thorns FC, the city's National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) team, boasts a passionate following and plays thrilling matches at Providence Park, showcasing top-tier women's soccer talent.
The Portland Winterhawks are a junior ice hockey team competing in the Western Hockey League (WHL), providing exciting hockey action for fans at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
Pioneer Place is a premier shopping destination in downtown Portland, offering a mix of upscale stores, dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for retail therapy and dining out.
Washington Square Mall is a spacious shopping center located in Tigard, just outside Portland, featuring a wide range of shops and eateries, providing shoppers with a diverse and convenient retail experience.
Bridgeport Village is an outdoor lifestyle shopping center in Tigard, offering a charming and upscale atmosphere with a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a delightful destination for leisurely shopping and dining.
NW 23rd Avenue, often referred to as "Trendy Third," is a bustling and trendy district in Portland known for its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a sought-after destination for exploring the city's unique and eclectic culture.