Downtown Portland is bounded by West Burnside on the north, the Willamette River on the east, and freeways to the south and west. It represents one of the earliest settled districts in the city and contains is the financial, governmental, cultural, and entertainment heart of the city. Many retailers, large and small, are located downtown. Tom McCall Waterfront Park, running along the river, is the site of casual relaxation and sometimes organized celebration.
Downtown features include the Portland Art Museum, Oregon History Center, and the Portland Performing Arts Center. The area is connected with districts to the east and west by the Max Light Rail System.
