Adorned with public art and fountains, this vibrant area is pedestrian-friendly and a center for shopping and business. Pioneer Courthouse Square is a focal point for the area, which features a mix of department stores and independent shops. Impressive hotels, top-rated restaurants and many of the city's arts institutions are also located in this district. Generally, the downtown area is considered to be between 13th Avenue and the Willamette River (east to west), Burnside and Jackson Streets (north to south).

HAWTHORNE DISTRICT. The comfortable, inclusive spirit that pervades this neighborhood owes a lot to the diverse mix of businesses in the area. Considered to be Portland's "funky" district, Hawthorne is frequented by the local lesbian population, college students and folks who want something a bit out of the ordinary. You'll discover brew pubs, galleries, antique shops, used CD emporiums, book stores, vintage clothing shops, designer boutiques and places that cater to kids and to pets. A good selection of restaurants fits a variety of tastes and price ranges. The area extends from 9th to 48th, but 34th to 45th gives you a good cross-section to browse.

If you're looking for character and charm at a good price, this district is worth a walk-through. Along with its terrific, wallet-conscious restaurants, the area also offers a host of specialty shops, including several that carry unique imported goods. From clothing to books, garden items to jewelry, you'll find a wealth of merchandise to keep you intrigued. Also in the area are the Irvington Market, which carries specialty foods and flowers, and the Lloyd Center, which is a mall with 200 shops situated around an ice rink.

Catering to hip professionals and trendy city denizens, this area is one of Portland's busiest. It features fashionable clothing and home store chains, including Eddie Bauer and Pottery Barn, and also includes a wealth of smaller, independent shops. Great restaurants, a slew of coffee houses and everything from stylish clothing venues and music shops can also be found. Great turn-of-the-century architecture and beautiful landscaping add to the neighborhood's appeal.

PEARL DISTRICT. In the early part of the 20th century, this area was dedicated to industry and commerce. In the last few decades, the original warehouses have been converted into art galleries, trendy restaurants, brewpubs, hip shops and boutiques. Pearl, named for the beauty inherent in the unsightly exteriors, is an apt moniker for this reinvented district, which is now one of the city's more desirable destinations. It's especially popular on the first Thursday of each month, when local galleries fling open their doors until late and patrons wander through the neighborhood, adding vibrancy to the already-bustling streets. The area is bounded by the Willamette River, I-405, West Burnside and NW Broadway.