The ABCs of Portland are your perfect guide to getting to know your new city. Whether you’re moving to Portland, relocating to Portland, or just curious about what makes this city unique, this list will help Portland newcomers settle in. From its thriving arts scene to its world-class coffee culture, from scenic outdoor escapes to quirky local traditions, Portland is packed with personality and adventure. Whether you’re discovering hidden gems in its vibrant neighborhoods or embracing the city’s love for all things unique, there’s always something new to explore.
The ABCs of Portland
A is for Artisanal
Whatever you’re in the market for, you’ll find a lovingly handmade version of it here. Portland newcomers will love exploring its many craft markets and independent stores.
B is for Book Spree
Moving to Portland means you’ll have access to the world’s largest independent bookstore and a thriving literary scene.
C is for Carabiner Keychain
Hook one to your belt loop and boom: great new home for your keys. A practical tip for those relocating to Portland and embracing an active lifestyle.
D is for Dogs, Dogs, Dogs
If your favorite friends are furry, you’ll make lots of new ones here. Portland newcomers will find the city one of the most dog-friendly places in the country.
E is for Espresso Art
At a fancy coffee shop, the barista might just grace the foam of your drink with a tree or heart—something every Portland newcomer must experience.
F is for Football
Not that one, the other one. The Timbers and Thorns (and their legions of fanatical fans) make this Soccer City USA.
G is for Glorious Sunshine
Summer is all blue skies and perfect days. It goes by fast, so make the most of it while enjoying Portland’s many parks and outdoor festivals.
H is for Honey Bees
If you aspire to urban beekeeping, the city will happily issue you a permit—just another unique feature of relocating to Portland.
I is for Island (Specifically Sauvie)
Just north of town, Sauvie Island is an oasis of kettle corn and hayrides, perfect for Portland newcomers to explore.
J is for Jokes
Portland has lots of places (including an annual comedy festival) to watch people be funny into microphones.
K is for Keep it Weird
Portland newcomers quickly learn that this city embraces individuality like nowhere else.
L is for Like So Many Trees
Make a peaceful day of it with a book and a blanket in one of over 280 leafy public parks.
M is for Mid-Century
A famous design style you’ll find in abundance in Portland’s vintage stores, perfect for those moving to Portland with an eye for retro decor.
N is for Neighborhood
Alberta, Hawthorne, Sellwood, St. Johns—each offers something unique. Portland newcomers should explore them all.
O is for Over a Bridge
Portland has nine bridges, each leading to new places to explore.
P is for Pale
It’s often gray and rainy here. Real talk: Invest in vitamin D supplements—something every Portland newcomer will come to appreciate.
Q is for Quench
What you can do to your thirst for amazing local beers (provided you’re of legal age, of course).
R is for Roses
Portland is the City of Roses. We celebrate our signature flower with gardens, societies, festivals, and parades.
S is for Saturday Market
Every weekend, Portland newcomers and longtime residents alike enjoy a delightful menagerie of local craftspeople, performers, and food vendors.
T is for Trucks
Where some of our tastiest food comes from! Moving to Portland means you’ll have access to one of the best food truck scenes in the country.
U is for Underground
Take a tour of the infamous tunnels that connect the city to the docks on the Willamette River.
V is for Vistas
Go on hikes and collect them all! Portland is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
W is for Waterproof
What all your shoes and jackets will be from now on. Portland newcomers, take note!
X is for X-Shaped
The Ladd’s Addition neighborhood (a fun one to wander around) is arranged in a big elegant “X.”
Y is for Yeti
Interested in monster hunting? Welcome to the reputed stomping grounds of Bigfoot.
Z is for Zesty Zucchini
You’ll find it in Portland’s farmer’s markets along with crunchy fennel and resplendent chard.
Welcome to Your Portland Adventure!
Portland is a city full of character, creativity, and endless opportunities to explore. If you’re moving to Portland, take the time to experience everything from its thriving arts scene to its world-class coffee culture. Portland newcomers will quickly find that this city is unlike any other, with its scenic outdoor escapes, quirky local traditions, and welcoming community.
As you settle in, let the ABCs of Portland be your guide to embracing the city’s unique charm. Whether you’re diving into the local art scene, sipping espresso with a side of latte art, or trekking across one of the city’s many bridges, each letter is a new opportunity to experience the best of your new home.
So get out there, try something new, and make Portland your own. Your adventure in the City of Roses starts now!
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