The Top 8 Most Walkable Neighborhoods In Portland

October 11, 2023 by No Comments

Portland, Oregon, is known for its walkability, with many neighborhoods offering excellent amenities, green spaces, and lively commercial districts within an easy walk.

All of the below neighborhoods have a walking score of 100, as well as a bike score of 99. This means that they are within the top 1% of US neighborhoods in terms of walkability.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods In Portland

  • Pearl District
    • Overview: Once an industrial area, the Pearl District has transformed into a hip, upscale neighborhood filled with galleries, boutiques, and renowned restaurants.
    • Walkability: With wide sidewalks, compact blocks, and a plethora of shops and restaurants, it’s effortless to navigate on foot.
    • Highlights: Powell’s City of Books, numerous art galleries, and a range of dining options.
  • Downtown Portland
    • Overview: As the city center, downtown Portland offers a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
    • Walkability: It features well-connected streets, parks, and a variety of attractions close to one another.
    • Highlights: Pioneer Courthouse Square, the Waterfront Park, and a variety of museums and theaters.
  • Nob Hill / Northwest District
    • Overview: Known for its Victorian architecture and tree-lined streets, Nob Hill is a charming and vibrant neighborhood.
    • Walkability: The main thoroughfare, NW 23rd Avenue, is packed with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy and enjoyable to explore on foot.
    • Highlights: Boutique shopping, eclectic dining options, and historic homes.
  • Belmont / Hawthorne
    • Overview: Situated in Southeast Portland, these adjacent neighborhoods are known for their bohemian vibe, with plenty of vintage shops, quirky cafes, and diverse dining options.
    • Walkability: With many local businesses and eateries situated along the main streets of Belmont and Hawthorne, these areas are very pedestrian-friendly.
    • Highlights: The Bagdad Theater, numerous vintage shops, and a variety of food options.
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  • Alberta Arts District
    • Overview: Located in NE Portland and known for its vibrant arts scene and diverse culinary offerings, the Alberta Arts District is a lively and colorful neighborhood.
    • Walkability: Alberta Street, the main thoroughfare, offers a linear and walkable layout filled with galleries, shops, and restaurants.
    • Highlights: Last Thursday art walks, unique local shops, and a myriad of dining and drinking establishments.
  • Sellwood-Moreland
    • Overview: A family-friendly neighborhood with a laid-back vibe, Sellwood-Moreland features numerous antique shops, casual eateries, and parks.
    • Walkability: Antique Row on SE 13th Avenue and the main streets of Sellwood are easily walkable, offering a variety of businesses and parks in close proximity.
    • Highlights: Oaks Amusement Park, antique shopping, and the Sellwood Riverfront Park.
  • Mississippi / Williams
    • Overview: These parallel streets in North Portland are known for their indie spirit, with many local shops, breweries, and eateries.
    • Walkability: Both streets provide a linear layout filled with an array of attractions that are easy to explore on foot.
    • Highlights: Live music venues, innovative restaurants, and numerous boutiques.
  • Division / Clinton
    • Overview: A foodie paradise with numerous eateries, food carts, and boutique shops.
    • Walkability: With main commercial areas clustered along Division Street and SE Clinton Street, it’s an appealing neighborhood for a stroll.
    • Highlights: Division Street’s restaurant row, independent shops, and cozy cafes.

Each of these neighborhoods showcases a different aspect of Portland’s varied character and all are welcoming to pedestrians, making it easy to explore the city’s charms on foot.