Justison Airport

Silicon Forest suburb blending tech innovation with Pacific Northwest charm.

Hillsboro is a mid-sized city in Washington County, Oregon, situated about 17 miles west of Portland. Once an agricultural hub famous for hops and berries, it has transformed into a major technology corridor, home to Intel's largest campus and dozens of other semiconductor and tech companies earning the region the nickname 'Silicon Forest.'

Despite its modern industrial identity, Hillsboro retains a welcoming small-city feel with a charming historic downtown, diverse dining options reflecting its growing Latino community, and easy access to the Tualatin Valley wine country. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy nearby parks, trails, and the scenic Tualatin River.

• •Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve — peaceful birding and wildlife trails on 700 acres.
• •Hillsboro Stadium — beloved minor-league baseball venue with a lively community atmosphere.
• •Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals — world-class mineral and meteorite collections.
• •Washington County Museum — traces local history from indigenous peoples to modern tech growth.
• •Rood Bridge Park — riverside trails, rose garden, and scenic Tualatin River access.
• •Historic Downtown Hillsboro — walkable streets with local shops, murals, and farmers market.

Getting around: Hillsboro is well-served by TriMet's MAX Blue and Red light rail lines connecting it directly to Portland, making car-free travel very practical. Local bus routes cover much of the city, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Biking is popular thanks to a growing network of paths, though a car is helpful for reaching outlying attractions and wineries.

Best time: Late spring through early fall (May–September) offers the best weather with mild temperatures, minimal rain, and access to outdoor events and the farmers market.

Local food: Don't miss the authentic Mexican taquerias and tacos al pastor in Hillsboro's vibrant Latino dining scene, and look for fresh Willamette Valley wines and farm-to-table produce at local restaurants and the Tuesday Farmers Market.

This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.