About Portland

For additional information on the city and surrounding areas, please see Portland State University's Physics Department's website »

Dining near the waterfront of Portland, OR

Why Portland?

What distinguishes Portland, Oregon, from the rest of America's cityscapes? Or from the rest of the world's urban destinations, for that matter? In a Northwest nutshell: everything. For some, it's the wealth of cultural offerings and never-ending culinary choices; for others, it's Portland's proximity to the ocean and mountains, or simply the beauty of having all these attributes in one place. Strolling through downtown or within one of Portland's numerous neighborhoods, there's an unmistakable vibrancy to this city—one that is encouraged by clean air, infinite trees, and a diverse blend of historic and modern architecture.

The City

Portland is a city located in the Northwestern United States. As of July 2009, it has an estimated population of 582,130 making it the 29thmost populous in the United States. It has been referred to as the most environmentally friendly or “green” city in the United States, and the 2ndmost in the World.

Weather

Summers in Portland are warm, sunny and rather dry, with July averaging a high of 81°F (27°C) and a low of 58°F (14°C). See the daily forecast on Weather.com »

Education

Portland is served by six public school districts and many private schools. There are also many colleges and universities- the largest being Portland Community College, Portland State University, and Oregon Health and Science University.

Attractions

International Rose Test Garden

Washington Park
400 S.W. Kingston Avenue
Portland, Ore. 97205
503.823.3636 | Gift Shop 503.227.7033

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

1945 S.E. Water Avenue
Portland, Ore. 97214
503.797.4000

Portland Art Museum

1219 S.W. Park Avenue
Portland, Ore. 97205
503.226.2811

Portland Japanese Garden

Washington Park
Portland, Ore. 97205
503.223.1321

Oregon Zoo

4001 S.W. Canyon Road
Portland, Ore. 97221
503.226.1561

 

Some images courtesy of Travel Portland