Hillsdale is like a visit to the suburbs without leaving the city.
It’s got your basic walkable Portland neighborhood amenities, even though you’re on the west side: a library, a farmers’ market on Sundays, plus a summertime pool on the campus of Ida B. Wells High School (formerly Wilson). But it feels like you’ve wandered into a hilly version of somewhere beyond city limits, with sprawling lots of tidy yards and spectacular views of Mt. Hood, weather permitting.
Brew pubs: The neighborhood has the claim-to-fame of the first brewpub to open in the state since Prohibition – after Oregon passed a 1985 law to legalize brewing and serving it on the same site, McMenamin’s Hillsdale Brewery & Public House opened with now-classic beers: Hammerhead, Ruby and Terminator.
Sweets: It’s worth a trip to the neighborhood just for Baker and Spice, which can lay a claim to some of the best baked goods in the city. Try their croissants, something called a Katie bun, and the fruit-filled hand pies. Don’t forget the salted chocolate chip cookie, currently my favorite in town. Their affiliated shop Cakery is worth a stop too, possibly preceded by an order for a special occasion.
Hike: If you’re looking for an urban hike you can start in downtown Hillsdale and hike the streets up to the peak of Council Crest.
