Portland
Known for its natural beauty, the city of Portland is extremely eco-friendly in the best way possible. This green city, both literally and figuratively, boasts thousands of acres of lush public parks with extensive biking and hiking trails. Portland is Oregon’s largest city on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. This thriving area is home to the iconic Washington Park, which offers residents and visitors alike 15 miles of trails, the Oregon Zoo, and the Portland Japanese Garden. Portland has its own public railway service, so getting around the city is easier than ever. This major metropolis is known for its art, theater, and music scene. Check out popular attractions like the Portland Art Museum, OMSI, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and Roseland Theater. Portland’s culinary scene is one of the best, offering up chef-inspired restaurants and lively local businesses like Tasty n Alder, Pok Pok, Deschutes Brewery, Voodoo Doughnut, and Salt & Straw. Portland is bordered by Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Mount Hood National Forest, and Clatsop National Forest, offering residents scenic views in every direction from their luxury apartments and cozy homes.
Beaverton
Situated just seven miles west of Downtown Portland, Beaverton is a beautiful, wooded community nicknamed the “Best in Oregon.” Beaverton is definitely the best for outdoor lovers – the city features more than 100 parks covering more than 1,000 acres. Another best? Beaverton’s school system, which is consistently recognized for high SAT scores. And with ski slopes on the east side and beaches on the west, some might argue that Beaverton’s location is best, as well. While you can quickly reach Portland in less than 15 minutes, Beaverton is much more than a suburb. Nike headquarters is located here, along with Tektronix and Reser’s Fine Foods. Retail is big in Beaverton, home to the Washington Square Mall, Beaverton Town Square, Cedar Hills Crossing, and a variety of locally-owned boutiques scattered throughout the city, but especially in Downtown Beaverton. Commuters can hop aboard the commuter rail at Beaverton TC WES Station for car-free commutes throughout the Tualatin River Valley. After work, head downtown to enjoy a variety of top-rated restaurants, including Tan Tan Café & Delicatessen, Boriken Restaurant, Rama Thai, and Giovanni’s. Other great destinations include ClockWork Rose Tea Emporium, Ringo’s Bar and Grill, Broadway Saloon, and Bootleggers Whiskey Bar.
Gresham
Gresham, Oregon is comfortably nestled immediately east of Portland and south adjacent to the Columbia River. A quaint, family-friendly suburb, Gresham allows for the quiet of an idyllic residential life, while still offering close proximity to Portland’s amenities. Avoid the noise and gridlock of the big city, and come home to an apartment on a quiet, tree-lined avenue. An outdoorsman’s dream, Gresham offers so much to explore! Enjoy the great outdoors at the Oxbow Regional Park or the Gresham Japanese Garden. You can even work on your golf swing at the Gresham Golf Course! Take in a little art and history at the Gresham Pioneer Museum, or relax and enjoy fine dining at the Persimmon Country Club. If you’re looking for a charming town away from the noise and bustle of the big city, this communal-vibe town is perfect for you.
