Known as the City of Roses, Portland enjoys one of the most spectacular natural settings of any city, standing at the junction of the Willamette and Columbia rivers and surrounded by vast forests and ancient volcanoes.

Portland frequently finishses near the top of America's most livable cities list, thanks largely to its unusually spacious inner-city parks and green areas, and boasts a wealth of festivals, live music venues, nightclubs, theatres and galleries that make it one of the most dynamic cities in the continental US.

Located in the Pacific North-West Portland does not have the history of New York, Boston or Philadelphia, but more than makes up for it in character.

The city features many major tourist attractions, such as Oregon Zoo which is full of exciting and unusual animal attractions, the World Forestry Discovery Center featuring many new rides and exhibits, and Washington Park, which is one of the most impressive parks in Portland, containing the Hoyt Arboretum, famous Japanese Garden and rose gardens that give the city its moniker.

Another perennial favourite for children is the Tom McCall Waterfront Park on the Willamette River where the little ones can splash around for the entire day.

The Japanese American Historical Plaza with its unique sculpture garden is another popular haunt for tourists, as is the Pittock Mansion housing its extensive collection of antiquities and fabulously landscaped gardens.

But given Portland's relatively short existence one may be surprised at the sheer number of museums to which the city plays host, many of which rank among the most popular in the whole US.

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry with its IMAX theatre and Planetarium remains one of Portland's biggest tourist draws, as is the Portland Children's Museum, combining family fun with educational exhibits;

Portland's Oregon Maritime Center and Museum, located on a sternwheeler tugboat and the Portland Art Museum complete the city's historical and cultural attractions.

Visitors looking for something a little more daring can explore the Columbia River Gorge with its magnificent deep ravine and more than 70 waterfalls.

Or for people looking for a more sedate experience the Lewis and Clark Recreation Site and Mount Hood offer beautiful nature trails and some truly spectacular city views.

Indeed the city itself is one of the cleanest and most welcoming in the US, with several distinct areas all with their own character. Chinatown, Old Town and the trendy Lloyd District are all areas visitors must see while in Portland or miss everything the city has to offer.

Perhaps as a result of Portland multicultural population the city has become a mecca for edgy young artists, designers and musicians, reflected in the number of festivals and live music performances.

Portland may not rank alongside New York, Florida and San Francisco as America's premier tourist destinations, but with its vast array of family friendly attractions it is a great place to visit regardless of age.

And with a world-class public transport system, a lively downtown and a truly spectacular natural setting, Portland is one of the most beautiful and exciting cities in the US.