We talked to Karrie Carnes of Women Who Explore for an upcoming episode of the City Cast Portland episode and she told us about how she immediately fell in love with the dreamy homes and giant trees in Irvington when she first moved here:
“It holds a special place in my heart because when I first moved to Portland from Florida in 2015, I just loved the old houses,” Carnes says.
Somewhere to Walk the Dog
- “I walked my dog for miles and we would walk up to Irving Park and just sit on a bench and watch people,” she says.
- Take your dog on a walk through the old houses in the neighborhood and you’ll likely make some new furry friends.
Somewhere to Drink
One of the best things about Irvington is its walkability. Make a night of it and visit these watering holes:
- Capital Bar & Lounge: For when you’re craving fancy cocktails and upscale vibes.
- Free House: Their covered patio is a great place to enjoy a cocktail outside without roasting in the sun.
- Saint Simon Coffee: Grab a morning cappuccino or an afternoon refresher.

A map of the Irvington neighborhood, nestled in the northeast corner of Portland. (Google Maps)
Rachel Monahan’s Recommendations
Your Hey Portland newsletter editor wanted me to share her Irvington favorites:
- 🪴 For the gardeners: Garden Fever
- 🍰 Classic old school cake place: Helen Bernhard Bakery
- 🍱 Somewhere to eat: Taste Tickler