Architect Michael Graves designed this "art moderne" building in 1982. Perched atop the Portland building, Portlandia, the alleged spirit of Portland, stands 38 feet tall and clutches a trident. This six and a half-ton statue was adopted from an old Portland city seal and now guards city government offices housed inside the building. Sculptor Raymond J. Kaskey created Portlandia and the stunning statue is made of copper sheeting over steel armature. If that isn't enough art for you, visit the Metropolitan Center for Public Art on the second floor.

Catholic Archbishop Blanchet originally lived in this house, which was built in 1879. The Gothic Revival-style building had divine beginnings but through the years it was also the location of a speakeasy, architectural studio, a sign company and is currently the home for the Al-Amir Lebanese Restaurant. This ornate structure has been well preserved and boasts eight arched windows framed with elaborately carved moldings. The light brown exterior and red trim blend in well with the other historic buildings in this part of downtown area and is a sound example of Portland's historic past.

You will enjoy gazing at this graceful bronze elk sculpture that rests on a large pedestal on Southwest Main Street. The statue celebrates a herd of majestic elk that used to graze in the nearby area more than a century ago. David P. Thompson, serving as Portland's mayor from 1879-1882, donated this statue to the city in celebration of the elks' presence. The fountain originally served as a watering trough for horses in the era before the automobile. An important piece of Portland's past, it makes one think of a time when wagons and buggies filled Portland's cobblestone streets, accompanied by the sharp clip-clop of horse hooves.

The heartbeat of the greater Portland area is heard loud and strong on these city streets. The ghosts of Portland's past in Old Town and Chinatown, colored canvases of the Pearl District, and the whisper of the Willamette River all sing Portland's multi-cultural anthem. MAX and TriMet public transportation offer a fareless square to maneuver about the city center. If you want to find the nearest downtown city park, look for the street-side, green jacketed Portland Guides who hand out information.

This Rose Festival event is just another way to come together Portland-style. The event takes over Waterfront Park bringing music, food and rides to the riverside green. Three blocks of fun include a petting zoo, garden maze, children's entertainment and other activities. The Western Trail is explored through exhibits and a ride on the Wells Fargo stagecoach. Don't miss the marketplace where you'll find plenty of unique gifts. Kids under 12 are always free. Admission for adults (13 & over) is free before 5p on weekdays; $5 after 5p on weekdays and on weekends. Payment accepted by cash only.

Walk through the grand plaza and step into Oregon's past. Located in Portland's cultural district, The Oregon Historical Society has bountiful collections of historical artifacts, photographs, moving pictures, maps and more. Many exhibits are interactive, and the atmosphere is friendly. The center's shop is full of Native American jewelry, baskets and pots. The book collection covers all of the Northwest's history for adults and children.

Float along the Willamette River in this cruise boat as you take in wonderful views of the city, bridges and reflections off the water. The main attraction is the river, but the Northwest meals are equally appealing. Entrees include baked salmon and chicken dishes accented by baby potatoes and rice pilaf. The wine list also has local treasures or you can order from the full bar. The seating area includes tables for small parties or groups, with a total capacity of 540 people.

This tree-lined parkway showcases Portland State University and its setting inside the city. Bronze statues of pioneers and other Portland characters look on as students and businesspeople shuttle about. Sidewalks stripe the greenway, and alongside the park are national historic buildings and cultural attractions, including the Oregon History Center and the Portland Art Museum. The closest MAX stop is just a few blocks northwest of this area, outside the Multnomah County Central Library.

Officially named Tom McCall Waterfront Park, but known to Oregonians as just Waterfront Park, this is often the center of activity in Portland. Festivals, parades, performers and more make it truly a taste of Rip City. Walk along the Willamette River at lunch and you're sure to brush shoulders with the city's workers. There is always something interesting to see here at Portland's answer to Venice Beach in California. There are basketball courts and lots of open, green space along the west bank of the Willamette River. The need for additional parks and green spaces in the city led to construction of the park.

Portlandia flows to the sea as you visit this piece of Rip City's past. Take the tugboat tour and hear how old seafarers battled the river currents. Vessels include the Barge Russell, Columbia River Gillnetter and Steam Sternwheeler Portland. The library and its staff are cheerful, and will give provide some interesting bits of information. Visit the gift store and check out the books and other river ware.