The Pearl, Portland, OR

Few art districts have grown as quickly as The Pearl, which seems to become busier by the day. Located just a short walk north of downtown, the former warehouse area is now home to nearly 30 art galleries, up from a handful just a few years ago, and offers everything from wearable art to Picassos (at the Widney Moore Gallery and Lawrence Gallery, respectively). The area also boasts ethnic eateries, wine bars and coffeehouses, and it's quickly drawing an eclectic mix of home furnishing stores with everything from vintage to modern (from mom-and-pop boutiques to Design Within Reach). Loft living came early to this area, and there are already 2,500 units in the area with more on the way, making for a homey, urban-village feel.