The City of Roses shines between June and August thanks to warm temperatures and less rain than in other months. Its thriving outdoor scene draws lots of summertime tourists, so make travel plans a few months in advance. Consider a winter trip for cooler weather (ideal for winter sports), fewer crowds and bigger hotel deals.

Visas

Travelers from outside the United States will need a valid passport, as well as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) eligibility or a full visa.

Money

Currency is U.S. dollars and ATMs are widely available.

Getting Here

Fly into Portland International Airport (PDX) or take the Amtrak train into Union Station. From the airport, hop on the Metropolitan Area Express (MAX) Light Rail system, which connects the metro area and downtown core.

Getting Around

Besides MAX, Portland offers bus and streetcar transit, bike-sharing and electric scooters, as well as taxis and rideshare services. The best way to explore Mount Hood and the Oregon Coast is by car.

Local Lingo

Portland divides its city into six geographical sections, which locals call quadrants — each with its own distinct flavor. These neighborhoods include North, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast and Southwest (which is anchored by downtown Portland).

Must-Have Apps

PDX Bus, MAX, Streetcar & WES; Parking Kitty; Portland by Streetcar Tour; Biketown; Uber; Lyft

Insider Tip

If you rent a car and need to fill the gas tank, know that it’s illegal to pump your own gas at most gas stations in Western Oregon. The state also does not impose a sales tax, which should delight travelers looking for some retail therapy.

The City of Roses shines between June and August thanks to warm temperatures and less rain than in other months. Its thriving outdoor scene draws lots of summertime tourists, so make travel plans a few months in advance. Consider a winter trip for cooler weather (ideal for winter sports), fewer crowds and bigger hotel deals.

Visas

Travelers from outside the United States will need a valid passport, as well as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) eligibility or a full visa.

Money

Currency is U.S. dollars and ATMs are widely available.

Getting Here

Fly into Portland International Airport (PDX) or take the Amtrak train into Union Station. From the airport, hop on the Metropolitan Area Express (MAX) Light Rail system, which connects the metro area and downtown core.

Getting Around

Besides MAX, Portland offers bus and streetcar transit, bike-sharing and electric scooters, as well as taxis and rideshare services. The best way to explore Mount Hood and the Oregon Coast is by car.

Local Lingo

Portland divides its city into six geographical sections, which locals call quadrants — each with its own distinct flavor. These neighborhoods include North, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast and Southwest (which is anchored by downtown Portland).

Must-Have Apps

PDX Bus, MAX, Streetcar & WES; Parking Kitty; Portland by Streetcar Tour; Biketown; Uber; Lyft

Insider Tip

If you rent a car and need to fill the gas tank, know that it’s illegal to pump your own gas at most gas stations in Western Oregon. The state also does not impose a sales tax, which should delight travelers looking for some retail therapy.