Downtown
Portland’s downtown, which reaches into two geographical sections, Northwest and Southwest, is truly a destination and is easily accessible from any direction. Portland has some wonderful neighborhoods that are considered part of downtown. They lie on the west side of the Willamette, and both north and south of Burnside. Each of the neighborhoods is characterized by its own mixture of older homes, new condominium projects, and businesses. Residents and visitors alike can get to any of these neighborhoods simply by jumping on a Portland Streetcar. The streetcar, a service that began in 2001, links Northwest Portland to the South Waterfront with a four-mile route that runs through the heart of Portland’s downtown neighborhoods.
It is a friendly, safe and wonderful city to visit or to call “home.” Downtown Portland is active day and night with business people, visitors and residents. Culturally, Portland holds its own when compared to any large city, with its many theatres, the Portland Symphony, numerous art galleries, and fantastic museums. Restaurants are plentiful, diverse and outstanding. You’ll find many outdoor cafes in all sections of the town as Portlanders love to sit and soak up the outdoors – whether the day has dry or “liquid” sunshine.
Get a feel for Downtown Portland by learning about a few neighborhoods:
ThePearl District, Portland’s newest residential neighborhood, has recently undergone a transformation from an old warehouse and industrial district to a hip and exciting locale in which to live and play. The area is speckled with diverse and upscale retail, restaurants and galleries, and hosts a popular First Thursday. Homes are primarily warehouses converted to lofts and new condominium structures and apartments.
2006 median Home price: $357,000
Goose Hollowearned recognition as the #10 Best Place to Retire by Money Magazine in October, 2007. It features old neighborhood charm mixed with new condominium projects. As one of Portland’s original neighborhoods, some homes date back to the 1800’s and is listed on the National Historical Registry. To get a close up view of these treasures, venture through King’s Hill (just south of Burnside and north of SW 23rd). There are also plenty of condo conversion projects and brand new construction for those who prefer new to historic homes. Goose Hollow residents enjoy quick and easy access to anywhere in the city. Other Goose Hollow features include PGE Park and the Multnomah Athletic Club. In addition, it is a short distance to Washington Park – home to the Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden, and Hoyt Arboretum.
2006 Median Home Price: $416,350
Chinatown/Old Town, an area known for its art galleries, restaurants and bars, is located in the north end of downtown, close to the river. China town and Old Town are best known for their historic buildings. Residents live in apartments, condominiums and lofts. Fair weather weekends are busy with hundreds visiting the Saturday Market – a large open-air craft market (open weekends March – December). Other area highlights include the Portland Classical Chinese Garden, and Portland’s Underground, commonly known as “Shanghai Tunnels,” where loggers and ranchers were captured and turned over to shipping merchants against their will.
2006 Median Home Price: $357,000
The Northwest District (a.k.a. Nob Hill, Uptown) is best known for its trendy boutiques, shops and restaurants on NW 23 and NW 21st. It is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening strolling, shopping and people watching. The neighborhood is comprised of a mixture of Victorian, Craftsman and Old Portland style homes, apartments and new townhomes. You’ll find some beautifully restored homes alongside some that have fallen on hard times. Sidewalks and trees line the streets that are often busy with pedestrian traffic. Note that parking can be an issue in this neighborhood.
2006 Median Home Price: $389,950
