From bridges to mountains to microbrews, it's easy to fall in love with a town like Portland. Mt. Hood sits in the distance, rivers flow through the city and parks are plentiful, but it's also a lively metropolis. Head downtown and you'll find great restaurants, shops and a bustling nightlife.
Portland is within striking distance of the stunning Oregon coast (just 90 minutes away), the equally breathtaking Columbia River Gorge (less than an hour away) and the laid-back vineyards of the Willamette Valley. Combine all this with the contagious friendliness of the people -- this is a fairly cosmopolitan city without a hint of pretension.