Search Northwest / Nob Hill
Northwest Portland offers sophisticated shopping, delicious dining and breathtaking views of the city.
Northwest Portland’s historic Victorian homes reimagined as boutiques, galleries, theaters and restaurants exude Old Portland charm in this walkable neighborhood that’s close to the Pearl District, Old Town Chinatown and downtown Portland. It’s one of the best shopping areas in all of Portland. It’s also handy to two of Portland’s biggest and best parks: Washington Park and Forest Park, with its 70 miles (113 km) of trails to explore in Portland’s west hills. Read on for our favorite things to do and see in Northwest/Nob Hill.
Short-Term Rentals in Northwest/Nob Hill
Use the links below to search for short-term vacation rental listings in and near Northwest/Nob Hill.
Where To Eat & Drink in Northwest/Nob Hill
If you stop into Barista as you wander Northwest 23rd Avenue, you’ll come away sipping a perfectly crafted latte or espresso. For pastries, coffee, tea and espresso drinks — not to mention beer and wine — head to The Dragonfly Coffee House, a community gathering place and purveyor of friendly vibes.
Ken’s Artisan Bakery is a beloved neighborhood stalwart that demands a visit. They’re known for their legendary bread, though their pastries, soups and sandwiches are well worth a try too. Other top spots for brunch or lunch include long-running Besaw’s, Cafe Nell and HunnyMilk. Not sure exactly what you want? A food cart pod gives you a variety of options in a single convenient location — Nob Hill Food Carts is a top pod in the area, offering a well-curated selection of delicious carts and convenient covered seating.
Restaurants in Northwest/Nob Hill
Many award-winning chefs showcase their culinary skills in this cozy neighborhood.
If you’re looking for a nice cocktail after shopping or before heading to the galleries, here are some Northwest/Nob Hill bars to try: Bartini mixes any type of vodka or gin martini you want — from fresh & fruity to spicy or classic. For those warm days, the local watering hole Paymaster Lounge has an outdoor patio. For a pint and pool, check out McMenamins Tavern & Pool, or for a little culture with your beer, head into the traditional Irish pub Kells Brewery for live music and local brews.
Though Northwest Portland is known for its fine dining, low-key casual options are available too: You can grab a slice at Escape From New York Pizza or get a quick and healthy meal at Harlow. Try Kirari West for gluten-free baked goods, bowls, sandwiches, smoothies and more in a laid-back café setting. Ready for dessert? Numerous excellent options can be found in the neighborhood, from frozen treats at Salt & Straw or Eb & Bean to elegant baked goods at Papa Haydn or St. Honore.
Things to Do in Northwest/Nob Hill
Only-In-Portland Attractions & Outings
A fun, funky attraction befitting a city like Portland, the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium is part art gallery, part museum, part emporium and all-the-way weird. You’ll find oddities and art installations of all sorts — think aliens and zombies (and Bigfoot, of course). If belting out a tune with friends — or maybe making some new ones — is more your speed, plan a trip to Voicebox Karaoke Northwest. Enjoy their fun private karaoke suites and deep, unique songbook while sipping cocktails and tucking into small plates.
Everyone knows Portland is a top destination for fun outdoors, and Northwest/Nob Hill is nicely positioned for exploring two of the city’s biggest, best parks. Head southwest to explore must-visit Washington Park, where you’ll find a historic rose garden, an authentic Japanese Garden, the largest zoo in Oregon and more. On the west side of the neighborhood sits Forest Park, a massive urban-adjacent wilderness. With more than 70 miles (113 km) of trails spread across 5,156 acres (2,087 ha), just about any length or style of outing is on the table — Lower Macleay Park and the Lower Macleay Trail are starting points that can be easily reached from Northwest/Nob Hill.
See the Sights
Northwest/Nob Hill offers easy access to Portland history and expansive green space.
Forest Park
Escape the city without leaving Portland; with 70 miles of trails within Portland city limits, 5,156-acre Forest Park is a popular escape for runners, equestrians and hikers alike and supporting more than 112 bird and 62 mammal species.
Bird Alliance of Oregon (formerly Portland Audubon)
The Bird Alliance of Oregon (formerly Portland Audubon) is a great starting place for hiking Forest Park and (of course) bird-watching.
Pittock Mansion
High in the West Hills, the Pittock Mansion offers picture-perfect views of the city and interesting insights into Portland’s history.
The Arts
The Pearl District isn’t the only place to experience the arts. For galleries, try Russo Lee Gallery on Northwest 21st Avenue, featuring some of the best artists in the Pacific Northwest. PDX CONTEMPORARY ART is a forward-thinking gallery featuring work from both local and international artists.
Northwest/Nob Hill is also a great place to catch a movie or a show. Cinema 21 is a beloved, locally owned movie theater specializing in art-house, independent and foreign films. On Northwest Glisan Street, McMenamins Mission Theater & Pub hosts touring and local acts in their intimate, historic theater.
Shopping
Local makers and shops abound around Northwest Portland, from jewelers and Portland boutique Betsy & Iya to champions of Portland’s DIY scene Tender Loving Empire. For precious treats and sweets, check out The Meadow, or visit the oldest metaphysical bookstore in Portland, New Renaissance Bookshop. Kids will love a stop at MudPuddles, a family-friendly shop offering toys, books, games, crafts and more.
You’ll also find plenty of chances to shop national and global brands around the neighborhood, including outposts of Lush, On, prAna, Snow Peak, Urban Outfitters, and the Adidas Employee Store, among others.
Level up your shopping trip with a little self-care. Northwest/Nob Hill boasts an abundance of nail salons, so it’s easy to find somewhere to pop in for a mani-pedi. Pay a visit to Smith Teamaker on Northwest 23rd Avenue and relax with a cup of peppermint tea or a matcha latte. On your way out, peruse their selection of loose leaf and bagged teas, plus gifts and accessories, and buy something for home.
Northwest/Nob Hill Events
Get to know the Nob Hill neighborhood at these upcoming events.
Central City Guide
The walkable central city includes the Pearl District, Northwest/Nob Hill and downtown.
Downtown and Central City Shopping
Downtown Portland boasts a wide array of shopping options, from major national and international retailers to locally owned boutiques and specialty shops.
Downtown Restaurants
From former food carts to fine international dining, you’re always just steps away from great restaurants in downtown Portland.
Portland's Central City
There's a lot more to Portland's urban core than Downtown, a center for retail, restaurants and cultural attractions. Goose Hollow is home to Providence Park soccer stadium, while the Pearl District is famous for upscale bars, boutiques and galleries. Old Town Chinatown offers streetwear shops, Saturday Market and Lan Su Chinese Garden and Northwest/Nob Hill boasts shopping, dining and access to Forest Park and the historic Pittock Mansion. East of the Willamette River, the Central Eastside offers family-friendly attractions, shopping and nightlife, while Lloyd is home to the Oregon Convention Center and the Portland Trail Blazers.
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