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NEA Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly
Join the Representative Assembly – the largest democratic deliberative assembly in the world for NEA's 2025 Annual Meeting in Portland, Oregon on July 2–6, 2025
Dear NEA Attendees and Exhibitors:
On behalf of Travel Portland, I am honored that NEA has chosen to host its Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly in Portland. I know that you had many destinations to choose from, and we are so excited that Portland will be hosting your meeting.
We in Portland pride ourselves on having something to offer everyone, from outstanding hotels and meeting facilities to outstanding restaurants and great shopping at local boutiques and major retailers alike — all with no sales tax. In the City of Roses, your delegates will be treated to a thriving arts community, internationally acclaimed local wines and microbrews, intriguing history, and incredible scenic wonder. Portland has worked hard on our eco-friendly and sustainable ethos, developing innovative public transit, preserving the area’s natural beauty, and supporting the local chefs and growers who give our food scene its nationally recognized, one-of-a-kind flavor. All that said, you may be most impressed by the friendly, professional and hospitable people you’ll meet here.
You don’t have to take my word for it — I’m happy that you’ll have the pleasure of experiencing all this firsthand. We look forward to welcoming NEA and you to Portland.
Best regards,
Jeff Miller
President & CEO
Get Excited! You’re Coming to Portland!
Dining Near the Oregon Convention Center
The Oregon Convention Center (OCC) is located in the Lloyd neighborhood, just across the Willamette River from downtown Portland. Lloyd is home to a wide variety of restaurants and bars, many within walking distance of the OCC. Popular spots include Milo’s City Cafe for a satisfying breakfast or lunch, or Spirit of 77 for pub food and drinks in lively sports-bar environs — and there are many more to explore.
Download our Restaurants Near the Oregon Convention Center Map
Dining in Downtown Portland
Downtown Portland restaurants run the gamut — you’ll find everything from budget lunch options at a multitude of food carts to delicious fine dining at acclaimed dinner spots in the central city.
Flying Elephants, an outpost of popular Portland-local chain Elephants Delicatessen, offers deli fare ranging from fresh salads and sandwiches to classic pastries to sate the sweet tooth. Head to Q Restaurant & Bar for eclectic menus featuring locally sourced Pacific Northwest cuisine. Relax into a leather armchair at Multnomah Whiskey Library, where an expert staff offers recommendations from over 2,000 available spirits.
Download our Downtown Food & Drinks Map
Dining Out in Portland
With abundant, amazing food and drink options, Portland is one of the top foodie cities.
Car-Free Portland
Portland’s public transport options make it easy to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time.
Using the MAX Light Rail
Every attendee will receive a TriMet Hop Fastpass to help them get around the city during the conference. TriMet is Portland’s public transportation system and Travel Portland provides passes that can be used on our light rail, streetcars and buses. Make sure to stop by registration or the Travel Portland Welcome Desk at the Oregon Convention Center to pick up a card. Learn more about how to use the cards here.
Know Before You Go
Visit TriMet’s website for more information on fares, navigating the city and possible disruptions of MAX service.
Group Activities
Find team-building activities — or activities that are just for fun — for groups of all sizes.
Things to Do in Portland
Like the city itself, Portland's attractions are a little unexpected and always inspiring.
Portland Perks
Not only is everything tax-free in Portland, our partners from a few local born-and-bred brands are offering you exclusive discounts! Take advantage of these added savings when you come to Portland.
 | Portland is proudly home to a thriving sports scene. Whether you’re a die-hard viewer, recreational participant or just looking to enjoy the city’s sports culture, enjoy Travel Portland exclusive benefits with the Portland Trail Blazers by visiting here. |
 | New to Portland as of the 2023–24 season, the Rip City Remix play in the NBA’s G League, which showcases young talent on the verge of making the Trail Blazers roster. You can receive 25% off all Rip City tickets with coupon code TRAVEL!PDX25. |
 | Save on gear for your next adventure with Columbia Sportswear — show your hotel confirmation to receive 20% off your purchase at the flagship store on Southwest Broadway. |
 | Explore more of Portland for less with Peak Tours and Transit — simply enter the discount code “welcome15” when you book your excursion. |
 | Taste more of the seasonal flavors Portland has to offer at Produce Row, a Central Eastside gastropub and craft beer bar — show your conference badge or pick up a coupon at the Travel Portland welcome desk for 10% off food. |
 | Be dazzled and receive free earrings with a $100 purchase. Pop in and shop or book a complimentary appointment with a stylist. Garnish creates fashion that celebrates real people with limited-edition clothing, accessories and jewelry designed in-house and made in Portland. |
Extend Your Stay
See more of Portland — take a tour, wander a new-to-you neighborhood or explore the region.
Portland Tours
Experience the best Portland has to offer with the help of a local tour guide or one of our self-guided itineraries.
Neighborhoods
Learn more about Portland neighborhoods, which are located in the city’s six main geographical sections or so-called “quadrants” (Northeast, Southeast, Northwest, Southwest, North and South).
Region
From mountain to ocean and desserts to valleys, the region surrounding Portland offers endless adventure.
Portland Events
Find exciting upcoming events, from live music to theater to stand-up comedy and more.
Tree Time Preschool Walks
Come for a story and guided walk on the trails at Hoyt Arboretum. Use your senses to explore the natural…
Portland Ghosts: Poltergeists and Psychopaths
Take a spooky tour of Portland's most haunted places and hear freakish tales of the city’s terrible past. Join…
Karaoke From Hell
The Northwest's original live karaoke band, Karaoke From Hell, has been rocking Portland for over 25 years and…
Portland Trail Blazers
Watch the Pacific Northwest's only NBA team, the Portland Trail Blazers compete this season. Cheer along with Rip…
Summer in Portland
No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something fun to see and do in Portland.
Summer in Portland
In the summertime, Portland pulls out all the stops, with festivals celebrating craft beer, music, contemporary art and the city’s culinary scene.
Portland Weather
Every season in Portland brings unique weather conditions and changes to the city’s outdoor scenery. Use our guide to weather in Portland (including average temperatures and rainfall) to help you plan your next trip.
Celebrating Downtown Summertime Events
Pacific NW Experience invites you to join them at Hotel Vance to learn about downtown Portland’s upcoming summertime events. Attendees will get the lowdown on the return of live concerts to Providence Park, Pioneer Courthouse Square’s 40th-anniversary celebrations and My People’s Market. Enjoy delectable bites courtesy of BEASTRO by Marshawn Lynch and sample whiskey from…
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