Oaks Amusement Park -- End of Spokane St. at the Willamette River, Portland
   Get a thrill on the roller coaster; take a turn around the roller rink; slow it down a bit on the Ferris wheel.  You don't need to leave River City for a carnival.  It seems that Oaks Park has been around longer than most Oregonians today, and it's still a great place to go to unwind from the pressures of modern living. Bring your own food or grab some hotdogs at the park and have a picnic.  I can't think of a better way to spend a lazy summer day.

Ride Max -- Eastside, Westside, Northside
   One of the reasons I love Europe is that I never have to set foot into a car.  I can go almost anywhere by train.  It's a shame people here don't feel the same way about their train system as the Europeans.  As a diversion, take a ride on Max.  Leave your watch at home.  Enjoy a leisurely walk after you reach your destination. Find an outdoor cafe to linger over an espresso.  Enjoy window shopping in the open air.  Discover new places -- like Gresham or Hillsboro.  Don't knock it if you haven't tried it.

The Oregon Coast --  From Astoria to Brookings
  There are so many places along our gorgeous coastline to take advantage of, it's hard to pick any one place.