Why Portland, OR?
The Portland metro area is a temperate climate and conveniently located between the majestic Cascade Mountains and rugged Oregon coast. Portland is both an hour and a half east of the coast and west of Mount Hood. When visiting the Oregon coast you have many options for things to do and see from quaint towns with local cafes to highly visited tourist locations with all the amenities. Visitors and locals alike can be found gathering at the coast to watch surfers, hike in the lush coastal forest, play in the waves (on a warm day), watch their dogs run about and play, enjoy a good book, or eat a meal as the waves break on the sand and rocks
Mount Hood has much to offer year-round; from skiing and snowboarding, alpine slide, hiking trails, horseback rides, to scenic drives. This is the location that many Olympic athletes train as it is truly an ice field and there is snow to be had well into August. You have the option for winter sports at multiple resorts such as Mount Hood Meadows, Timberline, and Ski Bowl. Visitors can also enjoy the Historical Timberline Lodge where weddings and parties are a frequent occurrence in both winter and summer months. The hiking trails go for miles and there are many variations on length and difficulty. Portland is three hours south of Seattle, Washington and just twenty minutes south of Vancouver, Washington.
Another area that is highly regarded by Oregonians and visitors is Bend, Oregon, which is a high desert climate and graced by Mount Bachelor, yet another playground both in winter months and summer months alike.
Portland downtown is complete with large city advantages of local flavor, theatre, concerts of all varieties, the beauty of the Willamette River, and nightclubs for all ages, yet friendly and quite clean. Portland is known for its' renowned chefs and no matter what your palate is tempted with, you are sure to find it in this eclectic local cuisine. Oregon in general is very casual and there are few places that you cannot go in your jeans.
Oregon has several Universities across the state from Oregon State University, University of Oregon, University of Portland, Portland State University, Linfield College, Willamette University, Reed College, Lewis and Clark College, Marylhurst College, Oregon Graduate Institute, Western Oregon University, Eastern Oregon University, Southern Oregon University, George Fox University, and Oregon Health Sciences University.
Portland is home to Forest Park, the largest urban park in America as well as many acres of local and neighborhood parks.
For more information on local statistics about Oregon click here.
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