In Praise of Portland

	In the Shadow of Mt. Hood
	Photo: Brent Bradley

Portland, Ore., is a city of contrasts.

In the shadow of snow-capped Mount Hood, its downtown civic center is stylish and urbane.

Bisected by the Willamette River and the 10 super structures that bridge it, the city limits also embrace miles of hiking trails and the largest forested urban park in the country.

As well-known as it is for its craft breweries -- there are 29, including six of the 25 largest in the country -- Portland is also a draw for wine connoisseurs and aficionados.

Restaurants, wine bars and European-style bistros shine with acclaimed selections from vineyards throughout the Columbia Gorge and nearby Yakima and Willamette Valleys.

Portland also hosts an exciting culinary scene that's literally all over the map. Here, you can find a wide range of authentic ethnic restaurants, trendy fusion venues reflecting the personalities of their chefs and patrons, as well as internationally praised fine dining.

There may be no greater contrasts, however, than Portland's assortment of small, accessible neighborhoods.

Each has its unique charm, from upscale modern chic to old European to just plain funky. And all these neighborhood galleries and one-of-a-kind retailers offer endless memorable shopping opportunities.

The Pearl District

Currently Portland's hot neighborhood, the Pearl District was a gritty industrial area just 10 years ago.

Now it boasts upscale residential and business lofts along with contemporary art galleries; chic boutiques featuring fine clothing, footwear and jewelry; stylish salons, spas and fitness providers; and more than 60 home furnishings shops.

The Pearl's most famous draw is Powell's City of Books, which occupies an entire city block and is the world's largest independent bookseller.

Crowds also come from far and wide for "First Thursday," a monthly art walk that encompasses dozens of galleries and takes place year-round.

Although most of the Pearl District's retailers are independent local operations, you'll recognize few of the larger stores, including Sur La Table and Pendleton Home (210 N.W. Broadway). And since you're in the Pacific Northwest, there are lots of shops featuring activewear and sports gear, including The North Face, Patagonia, REI and Title Nine.

When you're ready for a break, there's an amazing choice of restaurants, coffeehouses, bars and brewpubs where you can relax.

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