Uptown Portland - Portland, OR Area Guide

Throughout Portland's early years, the Northwest District was an undeveloped region. In 1865, Captain John Heard Couch planned the first subdivision, and by the late 1870s, platting was completed in the rest of the neighborhood. Portland's wealthiest residents built homes in the neighborhood in the late 1870s, moving Northwest Portland away from its working-class roots. The addition of the streetcar in the 1880s encouraged additional growth, and the population exploded after the 1905 Lewis and Clark Exposition took place in the area.

Today, culture is alive and well in the Northwest District. Art galleries line NW 23rd Street, and groups such as BodyVox and the Northwest Children's Theater offer regular performances. Museums in the neighborhood include the Oregon Jewish Museum and the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium. Each year, local residents gather at Chapman Elementary School for Swift Watch, an event that celebrates the migration of thousands of Vaux's Swifts.

The Northwest District hosts a wide array of restaurants that serve American and international cuisines, usually at mid-range prices. Most restaurants line either side of NW 23rd Avenue and NW 21st Avenue, making it easy for residents to walk to and from dinner. Sip a glass of local Hedgehog Pinot Noir and snack on fresh truffle popcorn during the daily happy hour at Taste on 23rd, a charming wine bar situated in a historic Victorian house. For dinner, try the salmon ravioli or the ultra-creamy house macaroni and cheese.

If you're looking for upscale food, pop in to the quaint Meriwether's Restaurant, which grows its own produce at Skyline Farm. Start with a sea scallops and pork belly appetizer before moving on to the signature crabmeat risotto, and don't forget to save room for a freshly prepared creme brulee dessert. When you're in the mood for a low-key meal, visit Ken's Artisan Bakery for an Oregon Croissant or a strawberry tart. Ken's also serves thick sandwiches at lunch and traditional thin-crust pizzas at dinner.

The originality of the Northwest District extends to its nightlife, ensuring that you'll never have a dull evening. Visit CoHo Productions and sip a glass of wine while you watch local actors bring indie plays to life. On a weeknight, fuel a game of pinball with a beer and an order of cheesy tater tots at Paymaster Lounge. For live music, residents head to the nearby Pearl District.

Residents of the Northwest District pride themselves on an environmentally friendly lifestyle, and many opt to walk, bike or ride public transportation. Comprised of pleasant, safe streets, the Northwest District is a cyclist's and walker's paradise. Many streets have bike lanes, and local drivers are accustomed to sharing the road. Locals often commute around the neighborhood and into downtown Portland by bike using the city's extensive cycle path network.

Buses 15, 16 and 77 run throughout the Northwest District, providing a convenient option for quick hops and longer trips. Both Portland streetcar lines stop in the area, connecting residents to the Rose Quarter and downtown Portland. You may be able to hail a cab on NW 23rd Street, but it is usually best to call. Uber is not available in the Northwest District.

Local car owners enjoy the free street parking on the streets of the Northwest District, but be prepared to brush up on your parallel parking skills to fit into the tight spots. Highway 30 runs along the eastern edge of the neighborhood, connecting you quickly to Interstates 5 and 405.

The Northwest District holds several parks within its boundaries, including Wallace Park and Couch Park. Local pet owners love Wallace Park in particular for its sturdily fenced dog park. Work on your serve at the tennis court, or bring your kids to the play area. On warm days, locals spread out blankets on the grassy hillside and enjoy a picnic in the sunshine. At Couch Park, you can go for a run on the paved trails or join a pick-up game at the basketball court. In the summer, both parks host a free outdoor concert series. Residents enjoy all parks in the Northwest District free of charge.

When you're ready to escape the noise of the city, ride your bike to Macleay Park or Forest Park to take advantage of the heavily wooded trails, excellent hiking routes and complete quiet. Both parks are located on the hills surrounding the neighborhood, and local fitness buffs enjoy regular runs on the challenging paths.

The cost of living in the Northwest District hovers considerably higher than the citywide average, largely due to the neighborhood's increased housing costs. A one-bedroom apartment rents for an average of $1,500 per month. In comparison, the Portland average sits around $1,300 per month.

Groceries and entertainment prices stand about even with prices in the rest of the city. A ride to the city center on the bus or streetcar costs $2.50, and a pint of beer in a local pub averages $4 to $5. Gas in the Northwest District costs approximately 10 percent more than the national average.

The Northwest District provides an endless array of shopping opportunities, from local bookstores to high-end clothing boutiques. NW 23rd Avenue and NW 21st Avenue form the retail center of the neighborhood, and it's not uncommon to see residents strolling through stores at all hours of the day. Indulge yourself or shop for gifts at Betsy & Iya on NW Thurman Street, where the owner makes jewelry by hand. The store also carries artisan products from local Portland crafters.

At the upscale Urban Edge boutique, you'll find trendy styles that don't show up in national chain outlets. Ask the fashionable owner for fit suggestions, and don't forget to pet his friendly Boston terrier. If you struggle to find shoes that fit, Oddball Shoes has you covered with sizes that are difficult to find in mainstream stores. The cheerful staff members are knowledgable and approachable, so don't be afraid to ask for help.

Home cooks and foodies love the Northwest District for its plentiful grocery shopping options. Residents pop by Trader Joe's and Fred Meyer to stock up on inexpensive pantry staples and produce. Pretend you're in Europe at City Market NW, where multiple food suppliers gather under one roof to provide top-quality speciality foods and imports. Find cured meats in the charcuterie area, and buy your favorite imported Brie at the cheese counter. Residents also love the fresh pasta and in-season produce options. For organic foods, a fresh salad bar and a friendly neighborhood vibe, shop at the Food Front Cooperative Grocery. The nearest farmers' market happens on Saturdays near Portland State University.