It wasn’t a residential neighborhood till the aughts. Not long ago the area was home to barge manufacturing. Developed from an industrial brownfield, South Waterfront is now full of sleek glass towers, many of them condos or apartments. And while it might be making headlines today as the home of Portland's ICE facility, it also hosts the preeminent medical research center Oregon Health and Science University. And it may soon become the site of a Major League Baseball stadium.
It’s easily accessible, but tucked away south of downtown. Here’s where to go if you pay a visit:
Eat and Drink
The neighborhood offers some fine dining — as well as more casual but high-quality spots:
The Seattle chain has gotten high marks for some of the best dumplings in the metro area.
Get yourself to the first restaurant of the massive chain. It’s got old-school flair and views of the river.
Recognized as one of the best coffee shops in the city, you can get your favorite brew here. (There’s tea too.)
Bike the Bridge and Waterfront
Go for a pedal. Tilikum Crossing — the country’s first bus, bike, train, and pedestrian bridge (no cars allowed) — is a good way to enter. The neighborhood has protected bike lanes along the main street and waterfront paths that are the envy of other neighborhoods. The neighborhood also has extraordinary access to public transportation: The Portland Streetcar, a MAX line, and bus lines all run through. And it’s got a unique form of transportation:
Take the Tram
Ride the OHSU tram like an out-of-towner. Avoid rush hour if you’re there for the views, so that doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff can get where they’re going (and you can be a little less crowded). (It's $8.50 round trip.)
The Marquam Bridge lies at the northern end of South Waterfront. (Michael Montez)
Swim in the River
Proceed at your own risk: The city doesn’t have lifeguards at this location. But Poet’s Beach is a lovely spot under the Marquam Bridge when the weather gets hot.
Learn More
From the comfort of home, check out before-and-after photos of the neighborhood’s development. [Oregonian]
Do you have a favorite spot in your neighborhood? Please email me.
