If you are new to the city of Portland, you will find that it is a dynamic, diverse and exciting city to live in. From amazing parks and shopping, museums to concerts, there are plenty of things to see and do in the city. Here are some pointers to help get you familiar with all that there is to see and do in beautiful Portland.

Portland has become well known as a center of American Do-It-Yourself youth culture. Over the past thirty years, Portland has become a major center for cultural movements like zine-making, blogging, to crafts and woodworking. The city has a great entrepreneurial spirit, evident in the numerous car dealer supply shops and fashion boutiques. As such, the city is home to "DIY" events such as the Zine Symposium, Craft Wonderland, the Church of Craft, Scrap and the like.

If you enjoy classical music, be sure to familiarize yourself with the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, home to the Oregon Symphony among others. Other performing arts groups include Portland Center Stage, Portland Opera and the Oregon Ballet Theatre. Be sure to also investigate all of the venues for theatre such as the Artists Repertory Theatre, Stark Raving Theater and Portland Center Stage.

Cinema fans should investigate the HP Lovecraft Film Festival held at the Hollywood Theatre. For music fans, the city is home to famous bands like Paul Revere and the Raiders and The Kingsmen, both famous for the rock anthem Louie Louie. Other big local acts include modest Mouse, Everclear and the Dandy Warhols. Sports also play a large role in the city's culture. If your children are keen on local youth hockey tournaments or how to learn Karate, you will find endless resources available throughout the downtown core.

If you enjoy shopping, be sure to visit some of the amazing vintage and antique shops around town. Taking an afternoon to sift through relics, learn how to sell used jewelry or find a truly unique gift makes for a great outing.

In 2006, Portland was named the tenth best Big City Arts Destination in the country by American Style Magazine. Downtown, you will find endless, unique boutiques offering everything from gardening hand tools to Art Deco furniture.

For a day of pampering, be sure to explore all of the amazing retreats and salons available both inside and outside of the city. There are few things as nice and unique as being in the city's beautiful surroundings while relaxing at a day spa. Raleigh to Rhodesia, people from all over the world come to Portland for the exceptional quality of life that the city's attractions provides to is residents.

The city's Art Museum is considered one of the best collections in the country. As well, the city's Museum of Science and Industry is considered world-class. It contains numerous hands-on exhibits and an OMNIMAX Theater. The USS Blueback, a submarine used in the film The Hunt for Red October, calls the museum home.