Known officially as the Beaver State, visitors to our fair state of Oregon are often charmed by its lush natural resources, quirky appeal and geographical diversity. Snow-capped mountains, breathtaking beaches, even tumbleweed-filled deserts: they’re all here! Oregon is a land of individuality and community, and nowhere is this seeming contradiction of terms more evident than in the state's biggest city, Portland. Many out-of-towners new to the Portland area may hear our city referred to as Stumptown, the City of Roses, Bridgetown, Rip City (to Blazer fans), and P-Town— former President George W. Bush referred to Portland as “Little Beirut” because of all the protests he encountered here. But whatever you hear it called, we also call Portland home, and we’re excited to share its offerings with you.

Nestled between Seattle and San Francisco, Portland shares a reputation with these cities as a laid-back rendezvous for self-styled artists and innovators. From our plentiful outdoor attractions, to our incredible culinary scene, to our galleries, to the shopping, to a nightlife that never lets up, you'll be hard-pressed not to find your niche. Whether you've got just one night, a whole weekend or an extended stay in our fair City of Roses, grab a cup of joe or one of our many award-winning local microbrews, kick your feet up and enjoy your stay. Cheers!

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Portland is certain to satisfy even the heartiest appetite for adventure. If you're up for serious hikes, lush nature, plentiful wildlife and spectacular views, there are a million options inside, outside and around the city. Head up to Forest Park (NW 29th Ave and Upshur St) right above downtown to wander through one of the nation's largest urban forests - while you're at it, you can check out the Victorian charm of the International Rose Test Garden (400 SW Kingston Ave), swing by the serene Japanese Garden (611 SW Kingston Ave) or go wild with the whole family at the Oregon Zoo (4001 SW Canyon Rd). Take an afternoon off with a relaxing drive up the historic Columbia River Highway (off I-84), as it winds alongside the awesome Columbia River Gorge. Incredible vistas are sure to be found everywhere along the way, but, at 620 feet, the towering Multnomah Falls (Exit 31 from eastbound I-84) will take your breath away. Hike to the top of the falls for a stunning view over the observation platform's rail.

If you want to stay in town, but still want to get out and enjoy that crisp Oregon air, there are plenty of activities that are accessible by foot, bike or a short bus ride. Stroll along Gov Tom McCall Waterfront Park or cruise the Eastbank Esplanade for great views of the Willamette River. For a full walking tour of the river, use the pedestrian-friendly Hawthorne Bridge and Steel Bridge to cut across. You can also treat yourself to a shopping spree in the Pearl District (lower NW blocks) or get Zen amongst the koi ponds and lily pads at the Chinese Garden (NW 3rd and Everett St).

THE ARTS

Portland’s art scene truly thrives. The posh Pearl District is home to numerous galleries that cater to all manners of taste. Every first Thursday, galleries open their doors to a citywide soiree of cheese, wine and an impressive array of art exhibitions. The Alberta Arts District also plays host to many a funky gallery and boutique, and throws their own art-walk party on every last Thursday of the month. For those with a fondness for kitsch, don't miss the Velveteria (518 NE 28 Ave), a gallery solely dedicated to the wonders of velvet painting.

THE EATS

If you like to eat, welcome to hog heaven. Portland is now considered by many to be one of the culinary epicenters of the United States. Your options are as varied as your individual tastes, and you big-city visitors will be impressed at the incredibly affordable prices. For easy access to all your options, do a quick scan of CitySearch or check out the fabulous, thorough food section in our city magazine, Portland Monthly. But if you're looking for ethnic fare, some favorites are Chinatown's dim sum Mecca a.k.a. House of Louie (331 NW Davis St), or the killer green curry from Thai Pod (2014 NE Broadway St). For standard hearty fare, try out the Doug Fir (830 E Burnside St) ominously but aptly titled Fir Burger, or a fully loaded slice of pie at Bella Facciai's Pizza (2934 NE Alberta St). Fine diners should be sure to hit Clyde Common at the ACE Hotel (1022 SW Stark St), Park Kitchen (422 NW Eighth Ave), Le Pigeon (738 E Burnside St) and 23Hoyt (529 NW 23rd Ave). Best steak in town? The Ringside, since 1944 (2165 W Burnside). Vegan or vegetarian? The city of Portland welcomes you: try vegan-friendly restaurants like Andina’s unique Peruvian menu (1314 NW Glisan), or the Alberta district favorite Vita Café (3024 NE Alberta). For more vegan/vegetarian options, go to: http://www.vegguide.org/region/116

THE DRINKS

Is it cocktail hour yet? Good, because if Portland takes anything seriously, it's fine booze, wine and beer. Oregon is definitely known for its award-winning Pinot Noir, but Portland is pretty much responsible for a U.S. microbrewing revival. Some of the choicest libations to spring from our city's numerous breweries are Widmer Brothers' Hefeweizen (great with a lemon wedge) and Bridgeport's IPA, but there are plenty of smaller brewpubs that only shill their brews from over the bar. A couple of definite winners are the Tug Boat Brewpub (711 SW Ankeny St) and Amnesia Brewing Company (832 N Beech St).

But brewpubs aside, Portland offers an array of charming dives and upscale lounges, and a myriad of options in between. Pop in for a game of Pac Man at neighborhood favorite, Beaulahland (118 NE 28th Ave), a bar that boasts "twelve pretty waitresses and one ugly one". Or slip in for a mai tai at the historic hipster hangout, the Shanghai Tunnel (211 SW Ankeny St), downtown. Feeling adventurous after your 4th mai tai? Walk a couple of blocks over to Tube (18 NW 3rd Ave), which resembles a punk rock bar on a very dirty space station. Then suddenly, somehow find yourself in St Johns? Enjoy a game of bocce ball or play a song from the jukebox at Leisure Public House (8002 N Lombard), one of that neighborhood’s best-kept secrets.

Looking for something slightly more refined? Try more buttoned-up Portland favorites like Saucebox (214 SW Broadway), or enjoy a Spanish coffee at Huber’s (411 SW 3rd).  Want full-on swanky? Hit Urban Farmer at the Nines Hotel (525 SW Morrison, 8th floor).

Whatever you’re looking for, you’re likely to find it in Portland. Feel free to share what you learn here: Portland is all about recycling!