[dfinninger]

Where are you staying? There are some parts of the core downtown (Old Town) that you might want to avoid, but the rest of Portland is not what the media portrays. Hell, even my family in the burbs (Beaverton, Cornelius) think it’s some crazy wasteland and constantly ask us if we feel safe and I have to laugh at them every time.

Go for a walk, rent a bike, and check out the amazing restaurant and brewery scene!

[ghaff]

Downtown (10th Ave.) though I'm not locked in. I'm reasonably familiar with Portland though I've mostly (always?) stayed near the Convention Center for the dearly departed OSCON. I'm sure it will be fine. Probably go the West Hills, the Pearl, maybe a Willamette Valley wine tour one day.

[spai2]

I live in Portland. My advice for you would be to avoid staying (or even visiting if possible) in downtown and Old Town. The Pearl is not too safe either, although things are starting to look up. However, there are plenty of neighborhoods that are thriving. The Nob Hill neighborhood in Northwest Portland, Clinton/Division in Southeast Portland for example are alive and buzzing. Try staying there and explore these neighborhoods. I guarantee you'll have a wonderful time.