South Waterfront Greenway
A modern urban oasis along the Willamette River, offering scenic paths, wildlife, and free bike access for exploration.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
South Waterfront Greenway
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern urban oasis along the Willamette River, offering scenic paths, wildlife, and free bike access for exploration.
"Possibly the best waterfront park in Portland or Oregon for that fact outside of the Coast."
🚲 Free Bike Share
Take advantage of free community bikes to explore the greenway and beyond!
🚶♀️ Riverfront Strolls
Perfect for a leisurely walk, run, or dog walk with beautiful river views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Willamette River Views
Along the entire greenway
Enjoy modern landscaping and serene river vistas, perfect for a leisurely walk or run.

Community Bike Access
Various stations
Utilize free bike share programs to explore the greenway and surrounding areas with ease.

Wildlife Spotting
Near the river and islands
Keep an eye out for bald eagles, ducks, and geese, especially during spring and summer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Riverfront Path
Cycling and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Free Bike Share
Take advantage of free community bikes to explore the greenway and beyond!
🚶♀️ Riverfront Strolls
Perfect for a leisurely walk, run, or dog walk with beautiful river views.
☕ Cafes Nearby
Enjoy a post-stroll coffee or meal at one of the many nearby cafes.
🦅 Wildlife Watching
Spot bald eagles and waterfowl, especially in warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Free Bike Share
Take advantage of free community bikes to explore the greenway and beyond!
🚶♀️ Riverfront Strolls
Perfect for a leisurely walk, run, or dog walk with beautiful river views.
☕ Cafes Nearby
Enjoy a post-stroll coffee or meal at one of the many nearby cafes.
🦅 Wildlife Watching
Spot bald eagles and waterfowl, especially in warmer months.
🚴♂️ Urban Cycling
Be mindful of traffic and route planning if cycling through the area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the South Waterfront Greenway for its clean, modern design and beautiful Willamette River views, making it a top spot for leisurely walks and bike rides. The presence of wildlife and nearby dining options add to its appeal, though some note limited direct river access and occasional urban cycling challenges.
"It’s a walking trail situated between modern new city buildings and the Willamette River, where you can enjoy a leisurely time amidst beautiful scenery. Today, I walked briskly to the area where boats and yachts are docked, covering a round trip of 2.6 miles and walking enough to break a sweat. Next time, I plan to go further down, and if the trail isn’t blocked in the north direction and connects all the way to downtown, it would be even better. It’s a place worth recommending, with several cafés and restaurants nearby, making it great for a short stroll after a meal."
Kai Dwd
"Possibly the best waterfront park in Portland or Oregon for that fact outside of the Coast. It is a newer Park but so clean and welcoming and coffee shops close by or a coffee shop. This place must be so great for those in the high rise building.
Bald Eagles on island, lots of ducks and geese in the water during the peak season of spring and summer. The place is so clean and free of Riff Raff."
Peter Disbury
"Just a path above the river. Appeared to be clean. Can't go down to the river."
M P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South Waterfront Greenway is accessible via public transport, including the Portland Aerial Tram which offers great views on the way.
Driving is also an option, with parking available in the area, though it can be busy.Yes, the Portland Aerial Tram provides a scenic route to the South Waterfront area.
Several bus lines also serve the neighborhood, making it easy to reach without a car.Walking, running, and cycling are popular ways to experience the greenway. Free community bike share programs are available, offering a convenient way to cover more ground.
Parking is available in the South Waterfront neighborhood, but it can be limited and metered, especially during peak times.
While the greenway runs alongside the river, direct access to the water can be limited in certain sections.
The focus is on elevated views and pathways.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the South Waterfront Greenway is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy.
The greenway is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific park hours may vary, but it's typically open from dawn until dusk.
No advance booking is required as it's a public space. You can visit anytime during its open hours.
While generally open, be mindful of any temporary closures or event restrictions. The free bike share has age and ID requirements.
The greenway is designed with modern infrastructure, generally offering good accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy walking, jogging, cycling, birdwatching, and simply relaxing with beautiful river views.
It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll after a meal.Restroom facilities are available in various points along the greenway, particularly near public access areas and parks.
The area is generally considered safe and clean, with a welcoming atmosphere.
It's well-maintained and popular with locals and visitors alike.Yes, dogs are welcome in the South Waterfront Greenway, but they must be kept on a leash.
Expect modern architecture juxtaposed with the natural beauty of the Willamette River, including boat docks and potential wildlife sightings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the South Waterfront area boasts numerous cafes and restaurants, perfect for a meal or a coffee break before or after your visit.
While there aren't designated picnic areas with tables, you can find spots to sit and enjoy a picnic, especially on benches or grassy areas.
You'll find a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Delivery services are available in the area, but it's often more convenient to dine at one of the many establishments within walking distance.
Food trucks can sometimes be found in the vicinity, especially during events or specific times of the day. It's best to check local listings.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the river, modern architecture, and the Aerial Tram. The path itself offers great framing opportunities.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful light for photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban parks and near residential buildings. Check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide river views and architectural details. A wide-angle lens is also useful.
Yes, photographing the boats is a popular activity, offering a glimpse into the maritime life of the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While direct river access is limited, the scenic views and modern surroundings provide plenty of visual interest. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities can be spread out. The nearby cafes offer convenient options for a family meal or a treat after exploring.
🚴 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to save on food costs, as there are plenty of pleasant spots to sit and enjoy a picnic. The real value here is the stunning scenery and the opportunity for healthy recreation, all at no cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the South Waterfront Greenway by Bike
It's important to note that the greenway is still developing, with sections being continuously improved. For instance, the path has been extended to connect more areas, leaving only a few gaps to be filled. When cycling, be aware of pedestrians and other cyclists, and adhere to posted speed limits to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The modern design of the greenway often provides clear lanes, but urban environments always require vigilance.
The Urban Oasis: Nature and Modernity
The greenway is praised for its cleanliness and modern landscaping, providing a welcoming environment for leisurely strolls, runs, and dog walking. It offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling city, with many appreciating the opportunity to break a sweat and enjoy the scenery. The proximity to OHSU campus residents also makes it a valuable leisure option for those living and working in the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit