Sellwood-Moreland
Overview
Sellwood-Moreland is a charming, family-friendly neighborhood along the Willamette River. Known for its antique stores, Victorian homes, and relaxed small-town feel, Sellwood offers a quieter side of Portland. The neighborhood is a gateway to river recreation, with easy access to Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge and the Springwater Corridor trail. It feels like a small town within the city — walkable, neighborly, and dotted with independently-owned shops and cafes.
History
Sellwood was founded as an independent community in the 1880s, named after Rev. John Sellwood, an Episcopal clergyman. It grew as a resort destination for wealthy Portlanders, drawn by Oaks Amusement Park (opened in 1905) and the riverfront. Sellwood was annexed by Portland in the 1890s but retained its distinct identity. The neighborhood's antique row emerged in the 1970s as dealers set up shop in the historic storefronts along 13th Avenue. Today, Sellwood-Moreland encompasses both the original Sellwood and the adjacent Moreland neighborhood — known for antique shopping, river access, and a relaxed pace of life.
Highlights
- Antique row — over a dozen antique shops along SE 13th Avenue
- Oaks Amusement Park — historic roller skating rink and rides dating to 1905
- Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge — birding and wetland trails in the city
- Sellwood Riverfront Park — sandy beach and Willamette River access
- Springwater Corridor — 15-mile paved trail for biking, running, and walking
- Moreland's independent boutiques and cafes
Top Attractions
- Oaks Amusement Park — Portland's historic amusement park since 1905, featuring a wooden roller coaster and roller skating rink.
- Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge — A 141-acre wetland refuge with trails, boardwalks, and excellent birdwatching in the heart of the city.
- Sellwood Riverfront Park — A riverside green space with a sandy beach, picnic areas, and stunning Willamette River views.
Parks & Green Spaces
🌲 Sellwood Riverfront Park
A 15-acre riverside park with a sandy beach, picnic tables, and views of the Willamette River and Ross Island.
🌲 Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
A 141-acre wetland with boardwalks, bird blinds, and trails through one of Portland's best urban wildlife habitats.
🌲 Westmoreland Park
A 33-acre park with a wetland restoration area, sports fields, playground, and a popular disc golf course.
🌲 Sellwood Park
A 5-acre park with a playground, tennis courts, and a community garden.
🌲 Springwater Corridor Trail
A 15-mile multi-use trail running through Sellwood along the Willamette River — perfect for biking and walking.
Things to Do
✦ 🛋️ Antique Shopping on 13th Avenue
Sellwood's Antique Row features over a dozen shops offering vintage furniture, collectibles, and curiosities.
✦ 🎡 Oaks Amusement Park
Ride the historic 1905 wooden roller coaster or lace up skates at the iconic roller rink.
✦ 🦆 Birding at Oaks Bottom
Spot herons, egrets, and waterfowl from the boardwalks of this 141-acre urban wetland.
✦ 🚲 Springwater Corridor Trail
Ride or walk along this 15-mile paved trail connecting Sellwood to downtown and beyond.
✦ 🏖️ Sellwood Beach
A rare sandy beach on the Willamette River — perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and kayak launches.
✦ 🎸 Music at The Twilight Cafe
A Sellwood institution serving comfort food and hosting live music in an intimate setting.
Food Carts & Dining
Sellwood has a growing food cart scene with a pod on SE 13th and several standalone carts
Eat & Drink in This Neighborhood
- Portland Mercado — food-cart-pod