Gresham is located in Multnomah County, immediately east of bustling Portland.  Gresham is the fourth largest city in Oregon, with a downtown that is rich in local history and charm.

The city’s population is comprised of long-time residents, young professionals, and growing families.  Over the last few years, Gresham has experienced rapid growth from a rural farming community to a bustling haven for those who seek a high quality of life in a country setting.

Part of Gresham’s allure comes from the Oregon Metro’s "best kept secret".  Historic Downtown Gresham has now been discovered by many visitors and citizens.  People seem to fall in love with the tree-lined streets, diverse dining opportunities, and historic treasures. 

Downtown Gresham resurrects the hometown feeling of yesterday’s easy living.  It brings back the slow pace that is missing from today’s urban districts and shopping malls.

The hometown feeling is amped up by Gresham’s many annual community events.  People love dancing in the streets during the Mt. Hood Jazz Festival.  Other crowd pleasers include the Art Walk, the regular Rockin’ Around the Block Car Show, and the Gresham Farmer’s Market.  Activities are easily accessible by bus or light rail, and a trailhead entrance in available through Main City Park.

Gresham residents also enjoy visits to the Red Sunset Park.  This 15-acre park has two picnic shelters, a large barbecue pit, and a walking path.  Children love the serene duck pond and the well kept play area.  Sports enthusiasts frequent Red Sunset Park to play pick up games on the basketball court or soccer fields.

Residents are highly involved in community events, but they also enjoy sharing Gresham’s historical significance.  The Gresham Historical Society was founded in 1976 by a group of volunteers dedicated to preserving the history of Gresham and its surrounding area. The society is non-profit, funded by donations, and staffed entirely by volunteers.

The historical society operates the Gresham History Museum in historic downtown.  The society does the majority of its research from this central location.  The Gresham Pioneer Church was also a source of great pride until it was destroyed in a fire in 2004.  Now the Pauletta Ewalt Memorial Brick Wall stands at its site in Main City Park.

Another focal point of civic activity exists at City Hall.  Alive with public art and exhibitions, City Hall provides gallery space for artists to display their work in curated shows.

Local artists draw much of their inspiration from the nearby Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area.  This 80-mile long passageway was carved out centuries ago with the most recognizable features of the Gorge taking shape during the Missoula floods.

Gresham residents frequent the Gorge to enjoy bird watching, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking.  Opportunities also abound fro rock climbing and wind surfing. 

There is never a dull moment in Gresham as the residents take advantage of the natural beauty surrounding them.  Gresham continues to grow as Oregon visitors uncover the unique community feel that defines this town.