Dreary, Depressing, Gray....
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4/18/2009
I have lived in Portland all 20 years of my life so far. I've traveled to Chicago, Seattle, New Orleans, Los Angeles, Northern California, Much of Oregon and even Utah. No other city, besides Seattle, really compares to the seasonal depression experienced in this "greenest" of cities. What good is it being the greenest of cities when all you see is gray?
To be fair. I hear a lot of good comments about Portland from people who are new to the area. Nice people, beautiful area, clean air, good transportation. There are many events in the downtown area during the summer. Saturday Market starts up in Late February and ends in Early December. Saturday Market is sort of like a farmers market, on the big side. Lots of art, food, music, people and other market essentials. One of my favorite ideas that I have noticed in the past few years is the holding of "Flicks on the Bricks". They screen movies, once a week for about 6 weeks in the summer in Pioneer Courthouse Square. If it's not raining it sounds like a great idea!
No that I have given Portland it's fair share of positive. I must warn you! Do NOT LIVE HERE!!!! This city regularly sees 200+ cloudy days a year. And the sunny days are often partly cloudy. And the days that are truely sunny are rare! This past summer was one of the most enjoyable Portland has ever had since I can remember. It was regularly pretty sunny, warmish, and not too much rain. But it was followed by a nearly 3 week SOLID FREEZE in Late December. I know, I know, It's winter, but wow what a buzz kill.
My point is that Portland can be one of the most seasonally depressing places in the United States, AT LEAST! It's cloudy the majority of the time, is cold, there is not much of anything to do in the winter and if it is sunny anytime other than July and August, many times you have a chilly breeze that requires you layer up a bit. If you are looking for a city with plenty of outdoorsy stuff to do, Portland may be your town! If you are looking for those same activities to see sun at least half the time, look somewhere else. If you're someone who thrives on gray-scale backdrops, come on over! If you're not, STAY AWAY!!!!
My idea of a great place to live consists of good people, warm weather, great food and proximity to a major city. I am leaving as soon as I am finished with college.
John | Portland, OR