Yes, I go to school in Oregon. No, I don't go to the University of Oregon or Oregon State University. Yes, there are more than just those two schools in Oregon. As a junior at the University of Portland, I've gone through that conversation at least 100 times. Regardless that it is one of the coolest cities on the West Coast (and maybe in America), people often forget about Portland, the tiny blip on the upper left- hand side of the map. While it is not as big as New York City which has 8,550,000 people, or as well known as San Francisco, Portland, (and no not Portland, Maine) is one of the best cities in the USA. Seriously, I'm not making this up, ranked as the 20th best city to live in America, Portland has been described as a "'well-rounded city with more than just the offbeat shops and events” and a population that has “more academic degrees than the national average'". Clearly, it's a good place to be; I mean, we keep things weird, what more could you want? We're not overfilling with only about 583,800 people and we have plenty of hotels and room for you to visit, so keeping that in mind, when you come up to the Pacific Northwest, here are 10 things you HAVE to do in the Portland Metro Area.
1. Go to an event at the Moda Center
Whether it is a concert or a Blazers game (I saw J-Biebs here, it was awesome), the Moda Center is pretty cool, as are the concessions inside it. Gourmet ice cream & vegan pizza, I think yes.
2. Salt & Straw Ice Cream
Stuffed Turkey Ice Cream? Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons? Chocolate Gooey Brownie? You bet they have it all.
3. Multnomah Falls
4. Pip's Original Doughnuts
Not only are they some of the most delicious things in the whole world, but they're mini. Know what that means? You can have 12 like I do... shhh don't tell my mom!
5. Portland Aerial Tram
OK, so technically it's a tram to go to the hospital...but doesn't it look dope?! There's a small charge but it is well worth the views.
6. Pittock Mansion
Go for the history of the creepy (at least in this picture) but beautiful house, stay for the view!
7. Portland Waterfront
A stunning place to drink a hot cup of coffee (or tea...or chocolate milk, I don't judge) on a chilly autumn day!
8. Gravy
Best. Breakfast. Ever. You will not leave hungry, I promise. Make sure to get the Biscuits & Gravy!
9. Tilikum Crossing
Welcome to the City of Bridges, please take a few minutes to walk over our newest edition.
10. Powell's Books 
A book lover's dream. Rooms upon rooms of books; that means rooms upon rooms of adventure! Visit soon!!!
