Portland

Portland is the largest city in Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers in Multnomah County. Known for bridges, parks, and bike-friendly neighborhoods, it was founded in 1845 by Asa Lovejoy and Francis Pettygrove, who dueled with a coin toss to name the city after Portland, Maine. It was incorporated in 1851 and grew into a regional economic and cultural center.

Geography and climate: The Willamette River runs through the city; the Columbia forms the northern boundary with Washington. Portland has a temperate oceanic climate, with wet winters and dry summers. Annual precipitation is about 35-40 inches. Winters are cool and damp; summers are typically warm and dry.

Economy and institutions: The economy includes technology, health care, and manufacturing. Regional employers include Nike (near Beaverton) and Intel in the metro area. Major institutions include Portland State University and Oregon Health & Science University. The city emphasizes transit and biking and has light rail (MAX) and streetcars.

Culture and landmarks: Notable districts include the Pearl District and Alberta Arts District. Attractions include the Portland Japanese Garden, Pittock Mansion, the Oregon Zoo, and Powell's City of Books. Professional teams include the Portland Trail Blazers (NBA) and Portland Timbers (MLS).

Demographics and governance: Portland is the county seat of Multnomah County and the core of the metropolitan area, with a city population around 650,000 and a metro population over two million. It operates under a mayor–council government.