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Portland Area Travel Regions
Portland, Oregon

Portland is more than the economic hub of Oregon. Strategically located on the majestic Columbia River near the northwest tip of the state, Portland serves as Oregon's cultural embassy with one of the largest collections of museums, galleries and art centers in the Northwest. A Mecca for art and music festivals, the city is made up of four distinct cultural centers, each with its own unique ambiance.

Photo by www.oregonscenics.comAt the heart of the city, lies Portland's Cultural District. Home to the Center for Performing Arts, Northwest Film Center and the Oregon Historical Society, it is known for its captivating parks and its summer entertainment venues. To the northwest, the Pearl District's former industrial center houses the Artists Repertory Theater and the Portland Classical Chinese Garden. The Southeast section embodies an eclectic array of dining establishments and shopping locations, while the North/Northeast District is known for its array of art galleries, eateries and colorful boutiques.

Less than a day's drive from the Oregon Coast, Portland is a gateway to many of the state's recreational attractions. Astoria, Seaside and Cannon Beach lie to the northwest of the city and offer a selection of easy coastal getaways. To the east extends the Columbia Gorge, with its awe-inspiring vistas and historic landmarks, and the Oregon Cascades and its offerings of adventure among its mountains, forests and streams.

Vancouver, Washington, which is linked to Portland by Highway 5, occupies the north side of the Columbia River, and offers its own engaging assortment of bistros, bars and riverside settings. Heading north also connects one with Seattle, Vancouver British Columbia, and the many recreation opportunities of Washington's Cascade Mountains.

Oregon's fertile wine country lies to the south of Portland in the Willamette Valley region and in the Umpqua and Rogue valleys of Southern Oregon. Vineyards are clustered around many of Oregon's smaller cities such as Salem, Dundee and McMinnville and offer delightful opportunities for wine sampling and country tours.

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