My wife and I are going to Portland and Corvallis first week in Sept. 97. Planning to rent a car and go to the coast, do some hiking, wineries, etc. Don't know much (anything) about the area or what to do? What should we not miss? Where should we stay? What's to do? Clubs? Jazz/Blues?

Oregon was one of our favorite vacations ever and was a pleasant suprise as we kind of went to visit friends. Don't miss Crater Lake, its one of the most beautiful natural sites you will ever see. Mt. Hood has skiing basically all year. The Columbia River Gorge is great for water sports or just taking a scenic drive. If you're into gardening - the Portland Rose Test Garden. The Willamette Valley has some beautiful vineyards. I'd suggest starting with Eyrie Vineyards and others in that area. I hope this helps.

The scenery is worth the trip. Cape Perpetua, beach walks, dune buggy tour of the sand dunes, Sea Lion Caves, Newport Aquarium, whale watching, fishing, claming and shopping are great. Gaming at the Casino in Lincoln City is Las Vegas style. Tidle Raves in Depot Bay not only has great food but a spectacular view. Sylvia Beach Hotel in Newport, where each room is decorated for an author, hosts a family dinner nightly (open to the public) including a table game through which each of the guests gets to know everyone at his of her table. Great food and lots of fun. Hope this helps. Have fun!

The Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful area, even just for a drive. Skamania Lodge is beautiful, (on the Washington side) overlooking the gorge, with horseback riding and hiking trails. Multnomah Falls is also worth checking out, and you can hike to the top or enjoy the scenery from the bottom!

I live in Portland and wouldn't want to live anywhere else. It's a beautiful, vital city with lots to see and do. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly--short blocks, smaller-scale buildings, numerous parks and greenspaces. Jazz and blues are big here, so you can find a lot of clubs for each. Pick up a copy of Willamette Week (free local paper) to help with planning. Also check out Citysearch (www.katu.citysearch.com) for info on Portland. Great time of year for a visit--flowers are still blooming, weather is comfortable. You'll have a wonderful time. Sandra