Introduction to Hillsboro, Oregon
Hillsboro is situated in Tualatin Valley in Washington County and is bordered by the Tualatin River. The landscape is fairly level. Hillsboro is approximately 17 miles away from Portland. The town is the center of the Silicon Forest and is home to numerous technology companies including a major center for Intel and Sun Microsystems. The city's population significantly increases during the day due to the arrival of commuters. Hillsboro offers suburbs set in a scenic landscape and still maintains its old fashioned charm. Rain is common in the city.
History
Pioneers arrived in 1841. The city was named in tribute to one of the early pioneers, David Hill. Beginning in 1867 riverboats offered transportation to Hillsboro along the Tualatin River. In 1871 the Oregon and California Railroad arrived. The city was incorporated in 1876. In 1908 the Oregon Electric Railway began providing transportation to Portland.
Culture and Entertainment
Hillsboro is home to the Oregon Chorale, the Hillsboro Symphony Orchestra, the Hillsboro Actors Repertory Theatre, Washington County Museum and the Walters Cultural Arts Center. The free concert series known as "Showtime at Shute" occurs during the summer. The Oregon International Air Show is a notable event.
Attractions
- Civic Center
- Hillsboro Farmer's Market
- L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park
- Bald Peak State Scenic Viewpoint
- Hillsboro Stadium
Historic Places
- Old Scotch Church features unique architecture
- Imbrie Farm resembles an Italian Villa
- Harold Wass Ray House
- Historic Washington County Courthouse
- Zula Linklater House
- Manning-Kamma Farm includes numerous historic buildings
- Rice Gates House
- Edward Schulmerich House
Activities
Visitors enjoy touring the local wineries including Oak Knoll Winery, Gypsy Dancer Estates Winery and Raptor Ridge. Pinot Noir is one of the area's specialties. There are numerous golf courses in the area including Meriwether National Golf Club, the Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club and the Rock Creek Country Club. The Oregon Coast is approximately an hour away.
The city has 21 parks. The Shute Park Aquatic and Recreation Center is popular with residents. The Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve is a notable area for bird watching, including opportunities to see Buffleheads, Tundra Swans, Canada Geese, woodpeckers, herons, red-tailed hawks and a variety of wildlife.
Transportation
The city is home to the Hillsboro Airport, which primarily serves private planes and corporate flights. Bus and light rail services are available. The light rail offers transportation to Portland.
Higher Education
Oregon Health & Science University is located in Hillsboro.
