Portland – Oregon’s eco-centric green city – is but an hour away by plane, which is a far less expensive way to travel north these days. Upon arrival, expect the unexpected…and a little something more. Portland has culture, character and camaraderie typical of smaller towns; traits that make it stand apart from others of similar and larger size. Saddled with the near impossible task of trying to narrow down style’s five favorite things about Portland, we gave it an admirable go. Why shouldn’t you?

ALBERTA STREET
If antsy for artistic inspiration, head to gallery-rich Alberta Street. This once sketchy district has been revitalized by the vibrant work of Portland’s craftiest. A number of galleries house garden art and fiber arts, watercolors, photography, metal work, jewelry and more. Alberta Street is also a great place to grab a refreshing salad, a steaming cup of coffee and a seat on the curb to listen to whatever musician happens to be yodeling there at the time. portlandneighborhood.com. style tip: Fly into town at the end of the month for Last Thursday Art Walk; vendor mayhem included.

For more about Portland, be sure to pick up this month's copy of Style-Roseville Granite Bay Rocklin edition. Click on the "Get Your Copy" link on the bottom of this page for some of our newsstand locations. Or, to order a copy of this issue, please email Gloria Schroeder at [email protected], or call her at 916-988-9888 x116.