Why Meeting Attendees Love Portland

People from all walks of life can find themselves in the independent and welcoming Rose City. Every inch of Portland has its own unique history, and every Portlander has their own story. From BIPOC-owned businesses to museums, gardens to festivals, you’ll find many ways to connect with Portland’s cultural communities during your visit.

With no sales tax in sight, Portland is a shopper’s paradise. Explore the city’s vibrant maker scene and take home a made-in-Portland souvenir; go treasure hunting at vintage clothing shops; or shop specialty stores for iconic local brands. Visit Portland neighborhoods, markets and pop-up shops to find everything you need, want and more.

Portland’s user-friendly MAX light rail makes it easy to get from Portland International Airport, voted the nation’s best by Travel + Leisure readers 8 out of the last 10 years, to the convention center and downtown. You can explore our compact central city via scooter or eBike, or simply take a walk. Downtown walkability is rated a 96 out of 100 by Walk Score.

Portland is a renowned culinary destination, consistently hailed as one of the nation’s top food cities. Savor farm-to-table fine dining or try some of the hundreds of food carts that serve mouth-watering options from around the globe. If you’re looking for outdoor dining, you’re in luck: The number of patio options in Portland is truly impressive.

Within city limits, Portland offers many miles of trails, parks full of canopied forest, waterfront beauty and even a dormant volcano. And Portland is the perfect launchpad for adventure, with the rugged Oregon Coast, snow-capped Mount Hood, lush wine country and waterfall-filled Columbia River Gorge all just a short drive away.

Portland is known for the vibrancy and uniqueness of its many neighborhoods, each with a distinct sense of place. Locals will tell you that you haven’t truly been to Portland until you’ve connected with these diverse communities. Visit as many as you can to discover unique shops, galleries, bars, restaurants and more.