Get to Know Portland
Portland is a city where everyday life feels full of possibility. Nestled along the Willamette River, you’re within a couple of hours of the mountains, the coast, and everything in between. It’s a place where you can slow down, explore, and grow, all at the same time.
While Portland is part of a major metro area, it still carries a neighborhood feel. Each part of the city has its own personality, making it easy to find places that feel like home during your time at PBC.
Life Outside the Classroom
College isn’t just about what happens in class. It’s also about the life you build around it.
Whether it’s grabbing coffee with friends, exploring the city, or finding a quiet place to study, Portland gives you space to live, connect, and recharge. Students often spend their free time exploring local neighborhoods, trying new food spots, visiting parks, or just enjoying time together. From creative spaces to outdoor adventures, there’s always something to do.
Coffee & Food Culture
The coffee and food scene is a big part of life in Portland. Check out some of our favorite spots, curated by students and staff:
Coffee Shops
- Guilder
- Stumptown Coffee Roasters
- Roseline Coffee
- Project Matcha
- Prince Coffee
- Keeper Coffee Co.
- Good Coffee
- PUSH X PULL COFFEE
Restaurants
- Nong’s Khao Man Gai
- Ranch Pizza
- Grand Central Bakery
- Noho’s Hawaiian Cafe
- Babydoll Pizza
- Taquería La Mestiza
- Tabor Bread
- Thai Seasons
- Güero
- Dough Zone
- Matt’s BBQ Tacos
Arts & Culture
Portland is a city full of art, music, and creative expression.
You’ll find:
- Local art galleries and rotating exhibits
- Live music, theater, and performances happening year-round
- Museums like the Portland Art Museum offer student discounts
From small venues to larger productions, there are plenty of ways to experience creativity and culture during your time here.
Get Outside
If you love the outdoors, you’ll have no shortage of options to get outside.
- Explore local trails right in the city
- Hike through the Columbia River Gorge and see waterfalls like Multnomah Falls
- Spend a day at the Oregon coast
- Head to the mountains for snow, views, or a change of pace
It’s easy to step away from the noise and enjoy creation—something many students value as part of their time at PBC.
Things Students Love
A few experiences that consistently make student life memorable:
- Visiting Powell’s City of Books (a full city block of books to explore)
- Walking through the Portland Saturday Market along the waterfront
- Summer nights with outdoor movies, concerts, and city events
- Trying new food spots and finding personal favorites
- Spending intentional time with friends around the city
Portland isn’t just where you’ll go to school. It’s part of the experience. It’s a place to grow in independence, build meaningful friendships, and discover how your faith connects to everyday life. Whether you’re here for a season or a few years, the city becomes part of your story.
Interested in PBC?
Take the next step. Schedule a campus tour and experience the PBC community for yourself!