Portland Warnings and Dangers

Portland, Oregon, has a reputation for being clean, green, and progressive. All this is true, and yet like any metropolitan area residents and visitors should be aware of certain Portland warnings and dangers.

Many of the warnings and dangers concerning Portland pertain to driving conditions. Portland residents have a reputation for driving very slowly and over-cautiously. This can cause problems. It also rains a great deal in Portland. Small streams of water form in the roadway, which can be a nuisance to motorists and pedestrians who are at risk of being splashed.

Mass transit includes the MAX, streetcars, and buses. Most mass transit systems are fairly safe, but use caution when riding the eastside MAX train late at night, because there have been some violent crimes.

The Willamette is lovely to look a, but remember it is an urban river. You may not really want to swim in it and should not eat anything that you catch.

Portland is generally a safe and civilized city, but the usual wisdom regarding personal safety in urban areas still pertains: Be cautious in dark, isolated streets at night. Stay sane, sober, and aware of your environment.

Editor's Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings or dangers in Portland.