1. The Birthplace of Wikipedia

Portland, Oregon is the proud birthplace of the revolutionary wiki, developed by Ward Cunningham in 1995. This revolutionary technology has since become a staple of the internet, and Wikipedia celebrated its tenth anniversary in the city in 2005. This event was a testament to the impact of the wiki, and to the city of Portland's role in its development.

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2. The History of the Mai Tai

In 1944, Vic Bergeron, a resident of Portland, Oregon, created the iconic Mai-Tai cocktail. This classic rum-based drink is made with a combination of fresh lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and a dark rum float. It has become a staple of tiki bars and beachside resorts around the world, and is a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. Bergeron's original recipe has been enjoyed for over 75 years, and is still served in many of the bars and restaurants in Portland today.

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3. Portland, Oregon: The Foodie's Paradise

Portland is a foodie's paradise, boasting one of the highest densities of food carts in the United States. With its vibrant street food culture, the city has earned the nickname "food-truck crazed," offering a wide variety of cuisines from around the world. From Mexican to Mediterranean, Portland's food carts offer something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the city's culinary scene.

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4. Portland's Tram System: Bringing the City Together

Portland is a city with a rich history of public transportation. Its many neighborhoods were built around the historic streetcar lines that were in place for decades, but the city was also one of the first in the United States to introduce a modernized streetcar system in 2001. This new system has allowed Portlanders to travel around the city with ease, and has been a major factor in the city's growth and development.

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5. Benson Bubblers: A Portland Tradition

Portland is home to many public drinking fountains, affectionately known as Benson Bubblers, which were donated to the city by a local lumberman, Simon Benson. Benson's generous gift was intended to provide Portland's residents with a non-alcoholic alternative to drinking, and the bubblers have become a beloved part of the city's culture.

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6. Portland, the Second Best City to Visit in the Country

Portland is a foodie's paradise, having been named the second best city to visit in the country in 2010. It's renowned for its diverse range of vegan and vegetarian dining options, with a variety of restaurants offering delicious plant-based dishes. From vegan-friendly bakeries to vegan-only restaurants, Portland has something to offer for everyone, no matter their dietary preferences.

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7. The Leprechaun Colony in Mill End Park in Portland, Oregon

Mill End Park in Portland, Oregon is the smallest city park in the United States, measuring just 2.5 feet in diameter. It is also home to the only Leprechaun colony west of Ireland, making it a unique and fascinating destination for visitors. The park is located in the center of the city and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.

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8. Portland, Oregon: The City with an extinct volcano

Portland, Oregon is a unique city in the United States, as it is one of only two cities in the country with an extinct volcano within its city limits. The other city, which is also located in Oregon, is Bend, located in the eastern part of the state. The extinct volcano in Portland is called Mount Tabor, and it is located in the southeast part of the city. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, as it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area.

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9. Portland, Oregon: The Beer Capital of the World

Portland, Oregon is known as the beer capital of the world, and it's easy to see why. With more microbreweries than any other city on the planet, Portland is a beer-lover's paradise. From the iconic Widmer Brothers Brewing to the award-winning Breakside Brewery, Portland's craft beer scene is unrivaled. With over 70 breweries in the city, there's something for everyone, from IPAs to sours, stouts to lagers. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just looking to try something new, Portland is the place to be.

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10. H. P. Lovecraft Film Festival: A Celebration of Terror

Every year, Portland's Hollywood Theater plays host to the world's only H. P. Lovecraft film festival. This unique event celebrates the works of the renowned horror author, showcasing a variety of films inspired by his stories. Attendees can expect to see a range of genres, from classic horror to science fiction, all with a Lovecraftian twist. The festival also features special guests, including actors, directors, and writers, who discuss their work and the influence of Lovecraft's writing.

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