Portland

Introduction

Nestled in the Pacific Northwest at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers, Portland serves as a central hub for the region. You will find yourself in the seat of government for Multnomah County while exploring this significant urban center.

Getting around

You can navigate Portland using a variety of transportation options that reflect the city's commitment to transit-oriented development. While automobiles are common, an integrated network of buses, light rail, and streetcars makes it possible to explore major attractions without a car. The heart of this system is the Portland Transit Mall in the downtown core, where various lines converge to provide a central hub for your travels. For those with specific accessibility needs, a paratransit service provides door-to-door transportation.

The MAX light rail system offers several color-coded lines to connect you across the metropolitan area:

The Red Line provides a direct connection from the airport to downtown.
The Blue Line runs east-west, connecting western suburbs and eastern cities through the city center.
The Yellow Line serves North Portland.
The Green Line connects the south to the downtown hub.
The Orange Line travels south across a bridge reserved for transit, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Complementing these rails is an extensive bus network featuring frequent service routes and cross-town lines that allow you to travel between neighborhoods without going through the center. For local trips within the city center and adjacent areas, you can use the Portland Streetcar. If your itinerary takes you outside of main transit corridors or late at night, taxis and ride-hailing services are available. Because many shops and restaurants cluster around transit stops, you will find the downtown area and its immediate surroundings highly walkable.

What to see and do

You can explore several notable landmarks throughout the city. Visit the Chiming Fountain or find your way to the Chinatown Gateway.

Pod
The Dream
The Dreamer
The Quest

Three days in Portland

Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of the city. Explore the area around the Portland Transit Mall and experience the local atmosphere as you navigate through the vibrant streets.

Day two, travel toward North Portland to discover a different side of the region. You can utilize the various lines of the MAX, including the Red Line, Blue Line, Yellow Line, Green Line, or Orange Line to reach your destination.

Day three, you can explore more of the local area by using the Portland Streetcar. Experience the unique character of the neighborhoods as you spend your final day in the city.

About this place

Portland