Homestead Neighborhood Guide
Homestead is located in Southwest Portland. It is bordered by the Southwest Hills, Hillsdale, and South Portland neighborhoods.
Features of the Homestead Neighborhood
The Homestead neighborhood is a mix of suburban and urban areas. Its close proximity to downtown makes Homestead a popular area due to the relatively easy commute. But the epicenter of the neighborhood has to be the enormous OHSU campus and hospital. OHSU is one of the most highly rated medical facilities in Portland, and the only public academic health center in Oregon. They have a variety of locations, but one of the most remarkable is Homestead’s location at the top of Marquam Hill. Coyly nicknamed “Pill Hill”, the complex includes the Portland VA Medical Center, the Doernbecker Children’s Hospital, the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, and more.
OHSU’s Portland Aerial Tram
Easily one of the top things to do in the city, the Portland Aerial Tram connects the Southwest Waterfront to the main OHSU campus at the top of Marquam Hill. Watch from the windows for a 360° view of pretty much all of Portland. The Willamette River along with its famed bridges stretches out below, and the Southwest hills greet you from above. On a sunny day, watch for views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Saint Helens on the horizon. If it’s particularly clear, you might even see as far as Mt. Ranier. If it’s a grey day, enjoy instead the Douglas Firs peaking through the mist as you make your way up.
Marquam Nature Park
Homestead proudly encompasses a good portion of Marquam Nature Park, the third largest park in Portland. With over seven miles of trails through over 200 acres of undeveloped land, this park is the perfect way to escape to nature without even having to leave the city. And if seven miles isn’t enough, not to worry. The Marquam Trail connects to Portland’s 40 Mile Loop trail system. You can follow it up to Council Crest or all the way to the Wildwood Trail in Forest Park.
Duniway Lilac Garden
The Homestead neighborhood is also home to one of the loveliest corners of Duniway Park: the Duniway Lilac Garden. Established in 1935 when the Portland Garden Club purchased a locally famous lilac collection and donated it to the city, the garden began with about 225 different lilacs. Today they still bloom every year from late March to early May. And beyond, in fact! A rare Japanese Lilac tree actually blooms in June, and the locals know it’s a must-see.
Homestead Businesses of Note
Since OHSU dominates most of the Homestead neighborhood, businesses outside of the campus are few and far between. Most of the rest of this neighborhood is composed of tree-filled residential streets and well-maintained parks. But just a short drive (or tram ride) down the hill will put you in the Southwest Waterfront, where more amenities are to be found.
The Inn at Marquam Hill
An affordable yet comfortable place to stay near OHSU, the Inn at Marquam Hill provides homey rooms for anyone but especially for those with a need to be near the hospital. Ideal for family members of the hospitalized, the inn offers short and long term stays. And it’s located right along the Marquam Trail, ensuring that its guests have access to the peace and tranquility of the outdoors.
The Oregon Native American Chamber
This one isn’t a business, technically, but it works with businesses across Oregon. The Oregon Native American Chamber describes itself as a “community of professionals, advisors, organizations, entrepreneurs, and companies collectively working toward success in business.” What this means in practice is that they provide mentoring and resources for Native businesses across Oregon and southwest Washington. And they make their headquarters here in Homestead!
Blue Star Donuts
Back in 2012, owner and CEO Katie Poppe had an idea and decided to run with it: gourmet donuts. But not just any gourmet donuts; ones that use local ingredients and support the local community. If there are two things Portland loves, it’s ridiculously decadent donuts and keeping it local! Now one of the most beloved sweet spots in town, Blue Star Donuts‘ location on the Southwest Waterfront is just next door to Homestead.
The Growler Guys
And now for another indulgence, but a totally different one. Growler Guys was also founded in 2012, and also has a location in the Southwest Waterfront area. But here you’re coming for the beer. And boy do they have the beer. Come and select from one of 59 – yes, you read that right – taps. True to their name, you can also fill up growlers full of whatever caught your fancy. This is a great spot to bring visitors or any beer-loving friends and family.
The Guys’ flagship location is in Bend, but they’ve since expanded to locations across the West Coast (and even one in Wisconsin). The Southwest Waterfront plays host to the company’s only location in Portland.
Umai Japanese Twist
What’s a neighborhood in Portland without at least one to-die-for food truck? Umai Japanese twist has solidified its place as a neighborhood darling with their warm atmosphere. Accordingly, they serve up Japanese comfort food classics like Japanese curry. If you’re down in the Waterfront, don’t miss this jewel of a lunch spot.
Homestead Neighborhood Parks
Homestead Neighborhood Community Resources
Homestead Neighborhood Association
Oregon Health Sciences University – OHSU
Homestead Schools:
Elementary school: Ainsworth Elementary School
Middle school: West Sylvan Middle School
High school: Lincoln High School
Neighborhood Vibe
The Southwest area of Portland features mature trees, established neighborhoods with older homes in a variety of styles, and a comfortable family friendly feel. Several parks and nature areas grace the Southwest hills, making it easy to get away from it all while still being in the city. If you enjoy a more rural neighborhood but still want a location fairly close to the city, Homestead might be a good fit. With just a short drive, go from dense forest to downtown Portland.
Homestead Stats
Zip Code 97239
Homestead Real Estate
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