Portland

Portland is the largest city in the U.S. state of Oregon and the seat of Multnomah County. It is a major port in the Willamette Valley region of the Pacific Northwest, at the confluence of the Willamette River and the Columbia River.

History

Portland was incorporated on February 8, 1851, and has been referred to as the "City of Roses" for over a century. The city's early economy was largely driven by its timber industry, which set the stage for the city's transformation into a bustling metropolis.

Geography

Portland is located 60 miles east of the Pacific Ocean at the northern end of Oregon's most populated region, the Willamette Valley. The Willamette River runs north through the city center, separating the east and west sections before veering northwest to join the Columbia River.

Economy

Portland's economy is heavily dependent on the technology industry, with more than 1,200 technology companies existing within the metro. This high density of technology companies has led to the nickname "Silicon Forest".

Culture

Portland is known for its vibrant live music scene, with a variety of venues featuring rock bands, indie music, punk, and jazz. The city is also home to a range of classical performing arts institutions, including the Portland Opera, the Oregon Symphony, and the Portland Youth Philharmonic.

Education

Portland is home to several universities and colleges, including Portland State University, the largest university in the state, and Reed College, a liberal arts institution nationally recognized for its rigorous academic standards.

Transportation

Portland's public transportation system is overseen by the TriMet, which operates the MAX Light Rail system, buses, and the Portland Streetcar. The city is also known for its high bicycle usage and has been recognized as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the United States.

See also

• History of Portland, Oregon
• Culture of Portland, Oregon
• Economy of Portland, Oregon
• Transportation in Portland, Oregon