South Portland
Overview
South Portland is Portland's newest official section, encompassing the South Waterfront, Lair Hill, and Corbett neighborhoods. This rapidly developing urban district along the Willamette River combines Portland's newest high-rise residential towers with some of its oldest historic neighborhoods. The aerial tram connecting South Waterfront to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a defining landmark.
History
South Portland was designated as Portland's sixth official section in 2020, recognizing the area's distinct urban character and rapid growth. The South Waterfront district was specifically redeveloped from a brownfield industrial area in the 2000s, with the Portland Aerial Tram (2006) sparking a building boom of residential towers and office buildings. The Lair Hill and Corbett neighborhoods, perched on the bluff above the waterfront, are among Portland's oldest residential districts, with Victorian homes dating to the 1880s. The area was historically an industrial and working-class neighborhood, with shipyards and rail yards along the river. Today, it's Portland's most dramatic example of urban transformation.
Highlights
- Portland Aerial Tram — a 3-minute cable car ride with spectacular views
- South Waterfront — Portland's newest urban neighborhood with riverfront parks
- Lair Hill — a historic Victorian neighborhood on the bluff
- OHSU — Oregon's largest employer perched atop Marquam Hill
- Willamette Riverfront Trail — miles of car-free paths along the river
- Close to downtown, the Pearl, and the Ross Island Bridge
Top Attractions
- Portland Aerial Tram — A 3,300-foot aerial tram connecting South Waterfront to OHSU, with panoramic views.
- South Waterfront Park — A 6-acre riverfront park with fountains, walking paths, and views of the Willamette River.
- Lair Hill Historic District — A historic district with beautifully preserved Victorian homes on tree-lined streets.
Parks & Green Spaces
🌲 South Waterfront Park
A 6-acre riverfront park with fountains, walking paths, and a dog park.
🌲 Lair Hill Park
A 2-acre neighborhood park with a playground and panoramic views.
🌲 Willamette Park
A 40-acre riverfront park with boat ramps, sports fields, and trails.
🌲 Marquam Park
A 3-acre park atop Marquam Hill with panoramic views of the Cascades and Willamette Valley.
Things to Do
✦ 🚡 Portland Aerial Tram
Ride the tram from South Waterfront to OHSU for stunning aerial views of the city and river.
✦ 🛶 Willamette Waterfront Trail
Walk, run, or bike along the Willamette River on the car-free riverfront trail.
✦ 🏛️ Lair Hill Walk
Self-guided walking tour of historic Victorian homes in the Lair Hill Historic District.
✦ 🌳 South Waterfront Park
Relax by the fountain or enjoy a picnic in this modern riverside park.
✦ 🍽️ South Waterfront Dining
The district has a growing restaurant scene with riverfront patios and skyline views.
✦ 🚶 Walk to Downtown
South Portland is a 15-minute walk across the Ross Island Bridge from downtown.
Food Carts & Dining
Several food carts in South Waterfront and near OHSU