Overview
Portland sits between San Francisco and Seattle as a laid-back counterpoint to both coastal giants. Over 650,000 people live in the city proper, with 2.5 million in the metro area, giving it big-city amenities without big-city chaos.
Architecture · Festivals · History · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
Area codes 503 and 971. Free Wi-Fi at Portland Visitor Center and all Multnomah County Library branches.
Culture
Very LGBT-friendly city with major publications. 'Keep Portland Weird' motto reflects quirky, progressive culture.
Food
Renowned food cart scene, farmers markets, and local seasonal cuisine. No sales tax makes dining affordable.
Money
No sales tax in Oregon—the tagged price is the final price. Credit cards widely accepted; ATMs plentiful.
Safety
Old Town/Chinatown dodgy at night; homeless population visible downtown. Generally safe for tourists who mind their business.
Transport
TriMet adult fare is $2.80 for 2.5 hours or $5.60 day pass. MAX light rail, buses, and streetcars all use the same tickets.
Weather
Rain from late September through June (usually drizzle), hot sunny summers July-mid-October with 10% rain chance. Pack an umbrella outside summer.