Community and craft have deep roots that spread throughout Portland, Oregon and the surrounding region. The city’s twelve bridges act like pulsating veins, connecting the network of neighborhoods that each have their own unique history, environment and personality.

From the countless indie shops and foodie havens in Southeast to the cultural crossroads in Northeast. From the industrial and hardworking Central Eastside to the academic and cultural centers Downtown. Discover all that is upcoming and new in the expanding Pearl District then go further Northwest into the historic residential Alphabet District and Nob Hill to have a chat with long standing city residents about the city’s rich history. Then take a hike down to the world famous International Rose Test Gardens and discover why Portland is called, “Rose City”. Together these neighborhoods are what makes Portland unique. But despite their differences, you’ll find that each neighborhood can boast of their own craft and farmer’s markets, creative studios, art galleries, community gardens, and award-winning restaurants and microbreweries—all owned, operated and fiercely supported by the resident’s themselves.

After spending some time exploring, you’ll soon realize that Portland is a city that constantly has one eye on both its past and its future. The people are passionate about protecting and preserving its history, fertile farmlands and awe-inspiring natural environment. But in order to create a better and sustainable future, the people of Portland and the surrounding region understand that they must continue to push the boundaries of environmental, technical and social innovation. The city has become a hotbed for startups and a leader in innovation in green initiatives, technology, and social programs. Because of this, Portland has become a magnet for entrepreneurs, creatives and anyone looking for positive change.

It’s not surprising that the city is seeing an influx of new residents, rapid growth and the challenges that come with it. Despite these expected growing pains, you’ll discover that the people continue on in the spirit of Lewis & Clark. They are trailblazers, adventurers and risk takers. Failure and the unknown does not scare them because they continue to move forward while keeping their eye on the horizon. And they stop to smell the roses along the way.