Often called on the greenest cities in the US, Portland boasts not only a variety of parks, gardens and outdoor mountain and coastal recreation, but its population strives to maintain the ecological health of the area with sustainable, environmentally-sound lifestyle options. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the recreational activities popular in the area including picnicking, hiking, fishing, swimming and boating, especially in the Lewis and Clark State Recreation Site, as well as visits to the nearby Multnomah Falls 611-ft. picturesque waterfall and the John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor with waterfalls, mountains and canyon hiking.

Counted among the top ten arts destinations in the US, the city of Portland offers a variety of cultural events and attractions, as well, with over seventy-five arts organizations offering performances and exhibitions including the world-class Portland Museum of Art, Oregon Ballet Theatre, Oregon Symphony, Portland Center Stage and Portland Opera.

Though Portland is known for its micro-breweries and coffee shops, the city also offers a variety of international cuisine, fresh, local seafood, as well as a vibrant nightlife, with live-music available in many of the city's pubs, bars and lounges every night of the week.