Getting Around Portland
Portland, Oregon has the best transportation options of any comparable city in the Northwest. The city's public transportation is administered by TriMet, the Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon. Thorougly modern and efficient buses, light rail, commuter rail, and streetcar are all available for getting around.
The bus system connects downtown Portland to surrounding suburbs. Wheelchair access is available and because Portland has many cyclists, bike racks are found on virtually all of the city buses. Fares are reasonable and drivers are helpful.
The MAX is Portland's light rail system. It has four lines, the green, red, yellow and blue, which connect downtown to the northern part of the city, the airport, and several nearby communities. It covers over 44 miles.
For longer distances, try WES, the commuter rail service. It links Portland to Beaverton, Tigard, Wilsonville and Tualatin.
Downtown, the streetcar glides smoothly along a nearly five mile loop covering the most popular neighborhoods, from the South Waterfront to River Place to City Center to the Pearl District. It runs all day long at regular intervals. Check to see whether your trip will be within the "free ride" zone on the streetcar.
Portland is a green city, but automobile drivers will also find a welcome there. The city's "smart park" lots are available throughout the downtown for parking at reasonable rates. New solar-powered parking meters dot the city landscape. Taxi service is reliable and easy to find.
And for those who favor walking or bicycling, Portland offers plenty of opportunity. The city puts out a map of trails and suggested routes for strolling through the city or biking next to the intriguing Willamette River waterfront. Because of its short blocks and compact footprint, Portland is considered to be one of the best cities in America for pedestrian traffic.
All of these transportation options are fully described in city brochures and information is readily available online for the traveler and visitor to Portland.