LynnPortland

The Center neighborhood is now usually referred to as "North Tabor." The name North Tabor likely makes a lot more sense, as this part of town is, in fact, North of Mount Tabor. North Tabor is in a great SE Portland location when it comes to convenience. It is easy to access the shops and restaurants on Burnside as well as everything on Belmont. It is also an easy commute to downtown. For those who want to live near a hospital, North Tabor is also a winner. Right in this area is Providence Portland Medical Center, which has 1000 physicians on staff!

Increasingly, people are moving to this area because it is so affordable compared to surrounding regions. The streets are relatively quiet and safe. All and all, this is one low-key place. Some homes are quite impressive and are large turn of the century renovations. There is also some modern housing to choose from.

In addition to the nearby location of Portland's huge park Mt. Tabor, this part of town also has its own very nice park called Rosemont Bluff Natural Area. While this park is only about 2 acres, it has great birdwatching and hiking as well.

On the downside, the northern side of North Tabor borders I-84. This means that part of the neighborhood suffers from some traffic and congestion. However, on the pro side, residents are right next to this highway, which allows for convenient commuting downtown and out of the city.

Sunderland is a North Portland neighborhood that is due West of the Portland International Airport. This is one of the best areas for golf lovers, as it includes both the Broadmoor Golf Course and the Columbia Edgewater Golf Club. Also those who like boating and fishing can take advantage of the access points on the nearby Columbia River. You can see some interesting wildlife from the wetlands.

There are few residents in this neighborhood. In fact, the population is estimated at only 551! There isn't too much in the way of shopping and dining right in Sunderland. However, since it is so close to the airport, residents have access to all of the airport commerce, which includes some restaurants, Target, Ikea, and Best Buy. Sunderland does have a few tiny places to eat including Green Lady Cafe (a juice bar) and Blah Blah's Ice Cream.

One thing people should know about this area is that it is home to Dignity Village, which is a camp of about 60 homeless people. The area has some crude cooking, electric and bathroom facilities set up for residents. Tiny temporary shelters are set up. In this intentional community, people practice communal and socialist principles.

Many Portlanders haven't heard of Woods Memorial Park, but is is actually quite impressive. Located in Crestwood, this park is 45 acres and undeveloped. As a result, although it is right in a fairly busy part of the city, you can definitely feel like you have escaped to the middle of nowhere in this park. There are different trails that wind around the creek. Also since many people don't know about this area, it is possible to virtually have the whole park to yourself! This area also includes Dickinson City Park.

The Woods Memorial Park neighborhood surrounds the park. The homes in this area tend to be quite affordable. You will generally find a variety of modern styles and new townhomes. There are also undeveloped pieces of land for sale in Woods Memorial Park.

This part of town is quite convenient, as it is right off of I-5. That means its an easy drive downtown. Also residents can quickly get onto Barbur Blvd, which offers some restaurants and shopping. In fact, Barbur World Foods is a great store that is very nearby. There are some Asian restaurants as some strip clubs. Barbur Blvd. isn't the most beautiful or interesting street in the world, but at least it is close.

Unsurprisingly, the South Tabor neighborhood is just south of Mt. Tabor Park.. and that is a very good thing! This park is one of my favorites in all of Portland. It is 200 acres and even has the distinction of having a extinct volcano within its boundaries. There are tons of pretty open spaces and this area is ideal for picnicking, hiking, or for just hanging out and relaxing. Also Mt. Tabor offers a gorgeous view of downtown.

You can walk to Mt. Tabor Park from South Tabor. Also some of the homes have impressive views of Mt. Hood. There are some mansions in South Tabor as well as a variety of other home styles including bungalows and even some new developments. Not all homes have been renovated yet. Therefore, there is definitely still some opportunity in South Tabor to buy a grand old house and fix it up! While there are, of course, some pricey homes, you can still find some affordable options in this area.

There isn't too much in the way of shopping right in South Tabor. You will have to head West on Powell or Division to find more options. There are some furniture stores, used clothing stores and (unfortunately) some strip malls. There are some great dining options, however, including Bete-Lukas Ethiopian Restaurant, Powell's Seafood Restaurant and Beijing Hot Pot. There also are a variety of other Asian restaurants on Powell and on 82nd.

Richmond is one of my favorite SE Portland areas. The great thing about this part of town is that the walkability is so high. You can walk pretty much anywhere! Included in this part of town are the interesting eclectic shops and restaurants both on Division Street as well as on Hawthorne. Between these two streets, you can find just about anything you might need in the way of stores and entertainment. Also the people who live in Richmond tend to be so friendly. This is the type of place where you just feel like making friends with people.

There are some gorgeous old homes amid the tree-lined streets in Richmond. Some streets, however, are much better than others. You can find great bungalows, cottages and English tudor style homes both to rent and to own. You see a lot of people beautifying their homes and gardening in the Spring, Summer and Fall.

The only park in Richmond is Sewell Park. This park is the only park in Richmond that I know of, so those who want to be near lots of large Portland parks might prefer another neighborhood. However, for gardeners there is also the Sewall Crest Community Gardens.

The Lloyd District surrounds the Lloyd Center Mall. Even outside of the mall, this area of the city has a lot of businesses including medical offices, bars, restaurants, shopping and movies. Of course, with all this activity going on this area can be far more congested than other parts of the city. But if you live in the Lloyd District, you can pretty much walk to anything that you might need. While there are many restaurants in this area, I haven't found anything too amazing. Choices include some chains like Applebee's and Newport Seafood Grill. The mall isn't too exciting either and contains just about what you would expect from any state's mall. It does, however, have Nordstrom and Macy's.

There isn't too much in the way of greenery in Lloyd. Even the 4 plus acre Holladay Park tends to be a more concrete than what you would see in other parts of the city. Since the park separates the mall from the MAX, it tends to mostly be a walking area for people going to and from the mall.

There are some very large homes in the Lloyd district including a few mansions. However, even the small homes tend to be expensive. Included in the real estate options are condos, apartments and high rises.

Kenton is a North Portland neighborhood near the airport. Although it might seem far from downtown, it is actually just a 10 minute drive as it is conveniently accessible to I-5. (A quick drive, that is, unless you run into traffic.) The MAX is also right in this area. One interesting thing about this area is that it is home to the Portland International Raceway and the Portland Expo Center. This area also has quite the unforgettable statue- a 31 foot tall statue of Paul Bunyan! This was added years ago to Oregon State’s centennial celebration. This statue is in the National Registry of Historic Places.

So what is living in Kenton like? Well, this area is considered "working class" and prices tend to be quite affordable. This area also has a lot of diversity. Increasingly, people are considering this area so that they can get a good deal on a home. Styles include bungalows, Portland style homes and also some new developments. Back in 1910, this area was just a meatpacking district so it really has come a long way.

Golfers will also like the fact that Kenton is near two places to golf- the Heron Lakes Golf Course and the Columbia Edgewater Golf Club.

Denver Avenue has some different stores and restaurants. Many of the original historic buildings remain. Some of the best businesses include Kenton Station Restaurant and Pub, Kenton Antiques and Cup & Saucer. Just a few blocks away from the business district is Kenton Park.

Mount Scott is a bit of a hidden gem. It is fairly convenient and easily accessible, and home prices tend to be lower than what you would pay in other areas. This part of the city is getting a reputation for being ideal for young families and those who are buying a home for the first time.

There are some really beautiful restored homes in Mt. Scott. However, there is also some variety since condos and townhomes are also available.

Part of what makes Mount Scott so ideal for families is the Mt. Scott Community Center. This center has a unique swimming pool with a waterslide, new exercise equipment and even a roller skating rink! The center also offers a variety of very attractive classes. Mt. Scott Park is 11 acres and also a major perk for this area. The park has a large children's playground, softball, picnic facilities and a pool.

Mt. Scott has some really cute independently owned restaurants and stores. It is fun to visit this area. One great spot is Arleta Library Bakery Cafe. This restaurant is a hip place that serves tasty southern style food. Another interesting place is a Hawaiian place called Da'Hui. It isn't a large commerce area, but what Mt. Scott does offer is nice and quaint.

The Montavilla neighborhood definitely has some things going for it. First of all, it is close enough to Mt. Tabor, that you can see some great views. Secondly, Montavilla is affordable, but it also offers convenience to areas of the city that have a lot of shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Once known for a lot of crime, prostitution and drug use, this area seems to be going through a bit of a revitalization, and, as a result, spacious homes can be bought for a lower price than what you might find in other parts of Portland. Styles include bungalows, cottages and ranch style homes. Also there are new condo developments in this part of the city. Also the schools in this area have a pretty good reputation.

Parks for families who live in Montavilla include Montavilla Park and Berrydale Park. Both have picnicking, and softball fields. Those who are looking to garden will be pleased to learn that the Berrydale Community Garden is right in Montavilla. Of course, some parts of Montavilla are only blocks away from Mt. Tabor Park. Truly, this is one of the most spectacular parks in Portland. As it turns out, the areas of Montavilla that are closer to the park also tend to be safer and nicer.

The Foster/Powell neighborhood has some very affordable homes to buy and rent within its triangular shaped boundaries. Many first time homeowners end up living in this part of town. This laid back area is also very convenient to all the entertainment, shopping and restaurants in SE Portland. While Foster/Powell used to have the reputation of being pretty run-down, revitalization has made it a more attractive place to live.

You will find some diverse styles of architecture within the boundaries of this neighborhood including bungalows, and craftsman homes. There are also new residences like condos and townhomes.

This area does have some nice parks including Mt. Scott Park and Essex Park. Mt. Scoot Park has about 11 acres including paved and unpaved paths, tennis courts and softball fields. It used to have some wading pools, but they were shut down by the health department.

There are a variety of ethnic restaurants along 82nd street including Pho Vietnam, Don Pedro for Mexican, and Vien Huong Restaurant. One popular location in this area is Sweetness Bakery and Cafe on 52nd, which has a pretty good reputation. For shopping, most people will find themselves visiting the Eastport Plaza Shopping Center, and the Fred Meyer Red Tag Store on 82nd Avenue.

Eastmoreland is really a gorgeous neighborhood and one of the gems of the city. First of all, the trees in this area are stunning. You will find some of the largest trees in the whole city. The homes are rather impressive. Most of them are quite large and pricey. You will need some serious bucks to get a home in this area. However, every so often a run down Bungalow or Ranch home in needs of rehabbing can be found.

Although Eastmoreland doesn't have much in the way of shopping or restaurants, they are easily accessible through a short bike ride. Sellwood is very nearby and has a ton of fun shops and interesting restaurants.

Eastmoreland is built to surround the Reed Campus, but you won't see too many students living in the neighborhood. After all, it is really not appropriate for a college budget!

Another major perk of Eastmoreland is the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Gardens. This attraction has a duck pond, bridges, waterfalls and thousands of Rhododendrons and Azaleas.

Golfers will be slightly drooling at the thought of living near the Eastmoreland Golf Course, which is the second oldest in all of Portland. In fact, many of the homes overlook this beautiful course!

Brentwood Darlington is at the southernmost edge of Portland, where it connects with Clackamas county. You will find that parts of this area aren't even within the Portland city limits. Brentwood Darlington has a community center that serves as a central feature of the neighborhood. This area may be a good choice for first time homeowners who can't afford to spent too much. While there is some crime and drug use in this part of town, the city is trying to revitalize the area.

In Brentwood Darlington a suburban vibe is mixed in with a bit of a city vibe. The area has different types of homes including bungalows, Cape Cods and Four Squares. Condos and apartments are also available. In general, prices in this area tend to be pretty affordable.

The Brentwood City Park is one of the best dog parks in Portland. It also has a lot of relaxing open space. Brentwood Darlington also has its own community garden.

There are some restaurants in this part of town, although you won't find anything too spectacular. Options include Por-Lemon Thai Cuisine and Arleta Library Bakery Cafe. Residents will find that the most convenient shopping is at the Clackamas Town Center.

The Pearl District can be found in downtown Portland. It is right between Old Town, Chinatown and Goose Hollow. I love this area and it has to be one of the nicest city living experiences in the whole country! First of all, those who work downtown will find the Pearl District to be amazingly convenient, as it is just a short walk away. Of course, being downtown, the Pearl District also offers amazing public transportation options.

If you live in this area, however, you can pretty much forget having a house. The homes are located in lofts, town houses and high rises. Since this area was originally a warehouse district, it is possible to find some interesting residences that are converted for living.

Browsing through the stores and galleries in the Pearl District is a lot of fun. You can find boutiques, galleries, amazing restaurants and some antique stores as well. Most of these stores are independently owned, although you do see some chains like West Elm sneak in.

Many of the restaurants in the Pearl District have fantastic ambiance. One great place to check out is Bluehour. I also like Park Kitchen and Silk. There are also tons of bars including Vault Martini and Vino Paradiso.

Wilkes is a neighborhood located in NE Portland just a few blocks away from the river. It is also just west of the Portland International airport, and it is quite close to Gresham. You can find some fairly large homes for reasonable prices considering the size. This residential area tends to be pretty quiet and low-key. It is also possible to find apartments and condos in Wilkes.

The population is estimated at about 8.695. It is interesting to note that this neighborhood is considered to be one of the fastest growing in all of Portland! There have been new additions to the area in recent years including the Wilkes Creek Natural area, which took five years to come to fruition. Before the addition of this area, Wilkes did not have any parks.

However, residents will find that Wilkes is not very walkable- it is far less walkable than most Portland areas. There are few shops and restaurants. So be prepared to jump into your car if you want to go anywhere. Residents might find themselves spending time using the shopping and restaurants that are located right by thte area since that is a fairly substantial commerce area that is right nearby.

The Russell area is a fairly pricey neighborhood located just south of I-84 and east of Parkrose Heights. While this area isn't too close to downtown, it still has a fair amount of shopping, entertainment and commerce. There are some nice established homes throughout the area. Also included in Russell is the Glendoveer Golf Course. This makes this area a good pick for golf lovers. There are two 18 hole courses at the Glendoveer and it is fairly affordable to play. Also Russell has some small parks including the John Luby Park, East Holladay Park and Merrifield Park. For those interested in community gardening, Russell is quite near the Hazelwood Community gardens.

This part of town is pretty safe, although some thefts from autos have been reported. You do see a lot of families and people in this part of town seem happy overall. There aren't too many restaurants, but there is a Chang's Mongolian Grill, which seems to be pretty popular. There is also a steakhouse/lounge called the Refectory.

The University of Western States is located in Russell, so some students do live in this area. However, this school is dedicated to programs like massage therapy and chiropractic work, so don't worry about roving frat boys. Plus, there really aren't many apartments or low income options. It is mostly established homes that tend to be on the pricier side.

The Powellhurst / Gilbert neighborhood is in East Portland south of Mount Tabor. Due to the fact that it is right off both Division Street and Powell Street it provides easy access into SE Portland and also to downtown. It is easy to commute from this part of town. Also this area has some decent parks including Gilbert Heights, which is almost 4 acres and Raymond Park, which is almost 6 acres. Raymond Park, in particular, has good facilities for kids.

This neighborhood is quite diverse, unlike many Portland neighborhoods. This means that you will see not only different races, but also various ethnicities. The community spirit in Powellhurst / Gilbert is very strong, much stronger than in other surrounding communities. There are low-income families in this area, and many stores have gone out of business in recent years. You can also find low income housing options in this neighborhood. Unfortunately, some crime and drug use accompanies this issue. There is a lot of burglary, particularly around Holgate. Also auto theft and vehicle theft occurs every so often. However, the community is working to improve these issues. On the bright side, there are numerous dedicated people who really care about this part of Portland.

Pleasant Valley is really pretty much what the name might indicate... it is indeed pleasant. One great thing about this area is that it is near a lot of green space. In fact, Powell Butte Nature Park is just a short drive North. This park is huge at over 600 acres! It has many nature trails and stunning mountain views. It is great for those who love the outdoors including hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. You can see a variety of interesting wildlife in this park as well including bats, rabbits, and coyotes.

Pleasant Valley tends to be on the pricey side. This is in part due to the nice big homes, but it is undoubtedly also because of the proximity to this amazing park. In addition to Powell Butte Nature Park you can also find Clatsop Butte Park and Eastridge Park in this area. Another very interesting plus for Pleasant Valley is that Springwater Corridor runs through it. This route was once a rail corridor. This scenic trail goes all the way to Boring, Oregon! You see hikers, strollers and also bicycles as well as a lot of interesting wildlife.

Not surprisingly, Parkrose Heights is a East Portland neighborhood right near Parkrose. It is also bordered to the North by Maywood Park and to the East by Russell. This area is extremely close to the airport. Also it offers some real convenience since it is so close to I-84. As a result, transporting oneself anywhere in the city is fairly easy from Parkrose Heights.

In this area a person definitely will feel as though he or she is in the suburbs. The closest major shopping center is actually right near the airport. This area has a Target, Best Buy, Ikea etc. This is another facet of this area that will make residents feel as though they are in the suburbs. These types of big brand corporations are seldom seen in NW, SW and SE Portland. Parkrose Heights also has a lot of little restaurants including some sports bars, coffee houses and Mexican restaurants. These are located on Weidler.

Parkrose Heights does have some crime. This mostly consists of thefts from automobiles and burglaries. While not a particularly dangerous area, it makes sense to be cautious.

There are some green areas in Parkrose Heights including Knott Street Park, Senn's Community Garden and Senn's Dairy Park. Knott Park is about 12 acres and has a playground and some nice open spaces.

One nice this about Parkrose Heights is that although it is airly small (there are about 2500 homes) there is a nice sense of community. The association of neighbors gets together frequently with the goal of improving the area.

The Parkrose Neighborhood is in East Portland near the airport. Just a few blocks north is the river, and, in fact, this area is very close to Washington State. You can find some very low home prices in Parkrose. After all, it isn't necessarily too convenient for those who work downtown. Also while there are some businesses in this area, residents won't find that there is too much in the way of entertainment. Therefore, it will be necessary to constantly get into the car unless you are really a dedicated biker.

There tends to be some crime, especially along Sandy Blvd. In addition to car thefts and robberies, there have even been some assaults. While Parkrose isn't truly dangerous, it makes sense to be careful. There is lots of accessible shopping right at the area. In fact, Portland's airport has somewhat of an outdoor mall complete with restaurants, an Ikea, Target and a Best Buy.

Parkrose does have some unique fixtures, for example, Senn's Community Garden. This community garden is a nice place to grow fruits and vegetables. There is also Senn's Dairy Park, which offers a decent size playground and picnics. In general, however, residents will find that Parkrose doesn't offer the greenery that many other Portland areas are so famous for.

Mill Park is an East Portland neighborhood that is at about 122nd Avenue. This SE area isn't too close to downtown, but you can make a fairly easy trip there by hopping on Division Street. This street will also lead you to SE Portland where there are more interesting things going on. While Mill Park is a decent residential area, there isn't too much to speak of when it comes to entertainment and shopping. Mill Park, however, isn't the safest area in all of Portland. While it isn't terrible, it makes sense to be cautious.

On the plus side, Mill Park is very family friendly. There is the East Portland Community Center as well as a variety of parks including Mill City Park, Midland Park and North Powellhurst Park. The East Portland Community Center is actually remarkably impressive. In addition to what you would expect in the way of a fitness center, basketball court, and pool, it has a rock climbing wall and even an aquatic center with waterslides. The center also offers a variety of appealing and diverse classes year-round. This is a major plus for this area!

Mill Park has a strong sense of community with regular community meetings.

Lents is a fairly large East Portland area. It has over 20,000 residents! While it isn't too close to downtown, it is on a light rail. Apparently, it takes about 30-40 minutes to get downtown on the MAX. Happy Valley is fairly close by. Residents will likely find themselves shopping at the nearby Clackamas Town Center. Lents tends to feel a bit suburban and has some affordable housing options.

Lents has some nice things to offer in the way of nature. For example, bikers can ride along the Woody Guthrie Trail (less interestingly, this road is also known as I-205) There is also the Springwater Corridor, which is a 21 mile bikepath that connects Lents to other parts of the city. The region has some pretty natural settings including Lents Park and the Beggars Tick Wildlife Refuge.

Lents does have a strong sense of community and many residents are working to improve its reputation and make it a better place to live. During the Summer there are movies in the Park. Lents also hosts the Ramona Street Fair, which has music, food and crafts.

Hazelwood is an East Portland neighborhood that has some major pluses for those looking for a home in Portland. You can definitely find lower prices in Hazelwood along with a convenient location that offers some nice shopping and dining options. There are a variety of different home styles too including ranch homes and cape cod homes. Most of the houses were built in the 50's and 60's. You will also find some new construction including townhomes. Hazelwood could be a good option for those looking for a starter home. Some speculate that it is likely a good investment due to its location. One of the reasons that Hazelwood is so convenient is that it is right along the TriMet MAX line.

Hazelwood is close to several roads that tend to have traffic, like Burnside Street. However, it still feels quiet and the streets offer somewhat of a respite. Among the areas business infrastructure is the Adventist Hospital. Many will like the fact that a hospital is so close to this neighborhood. However, with the commerce areas does come some crime. There are some burglaries, auto thefts and robberies in Hazelwood.

Glenfair is an East Portland neighborhood that is very near the suburb of Gresham. Often people gravitate to this area because it is still in Portland, but it has very low cost housing options. On the plus side, there are a variety of types of homes as well. One perk to Glenfair is that there is a variety of shopping in this region. It also is very easy to get from Glenfair to SE Portland (where many more interesting things are going on!) It borders on Burnside Blvd, which residents can easily take to SE Portland and then right over the Burnside Bridge to downtown.

Glenfair tends to be less green than other Portland areas. You won't see, for example, as many pretty trees lining the streets. However, it does have Glenfair Park, which is about 5 acres. The park includes a soccer field, and an off-leash dog area. Perhaps surprisingly, Glenfair is home to a golf course called the Glendoveer Golf Course. As a result, it could be ideal for someone who wants a low cost home very close to golfing.

Unfortunately, Glenfair does have a bit of a crime issue. In addition to car thefts, there are also burglaries, larcenies and robberies throughout the neighborhood.

West Portland Park is a SW Portland neighborhood that will allow residents to feel as though they have escaped to the suburbs. This family friendly area has a strong sense of community and a variety of pretty home styles. Many homes are engulfed by forests and will appeal to the nature lover. Speaking of nature, West Portland Park has plenty of nature to offer. It has the West Portland Natural Area, which is about 14 acres of lovely trees and trails.

Also unique to West Portland Park is Holly Farm Park. This park used to be a site for cultivating holly trees. In 2007 it opened as a park complete with a great playground. One thing that makes Holly Farm Park unique is that it has a very cool skatespot where skateboarders can enjoy themselves. They are also fun to watch!

While residents will find themselves heading to downtown or beaverton for most of their shopping and entertainment, West Portland Park does have some infrastructure including a Multnomah County Library and several bars and restaurants. Due to the fact that this area is so close to Portland Community College's Sylvania Campus, there are also some apartment buildings in West Portland Park.

South Burlingame is a very pretty SW Portland neighborhood. It is even closer downtown than many other SW neighborhoods and, as a result, it tends to be even easier for commuters. South Burlinggame has a vital community and some very nice homes. Similar to other SW areas, it tends to feel more like the suburbs. However, there are some businesses scattered throughout this area. For example, the Market of Choice on Terwillger is located in South Burlingame. This is a popular grocery store where many locals shop. Another popular location right in South Burlingame is the Tryon Creek Bar and Restaurant.

The community organizes many events throughout the year that will appeal to couples, retirees as well as families. For example, they will host park cleanups and stream restorations in the area. Those who wish to get involved can really make a difference.

There is little crime in this region. If crime does occur, it tends to be something like a theft from someone's car. However, due to the fact that this area has some commerce, it might be a little less safe and quiet than other SW Portland areas.

South Burlingame does have the Burlingame Park, which is almost 5 acres. This is a very nice location with a playground and picnic area. The neighborhood is in very close proximity to other parks including Fulton Park, Gabriel Park and the Stephens Creek Natural Area.

Marshall Park is similar to some of its SW Portland neighbors like the Markham neighborhood and Marshall Creek neighborhood in that residents feel much more like they are living in the suburbs than in the city. This area is very quiet and safe with dense trees and hills. Marshall Park offers even more nature than some SW Portland areas, as it is neighbors on Tryon Creek State Park. This is quite an impressive area, and, in fact, the only national park in Oregon! The neighborhood also includes the Jensen Natural area. While this park is only about 2 acres, it stands out for its quiet setting and beautiful trees. Undoubtedly, those who love natural settings will appreciate Marshall Park.

Another thing that Marshall Park has in common with many other SW Portland areas, is that there isn't much in the way of shopping and restaurants. Since this area is so close to Lewis and Clark College, there is a bit of nearby infrastructure including a few coffeeshops and yoga studios. Residents will find some of what they need on nearby Barbur Blvd. Barbur has some grocery stores and restaurants nearby.

The homes in Marshall Park tend to be expensive and upscale. It is perfect for well-off families and those who want all the benefits of a quiet escape from the city that is still close to downtown.

Markham is a SW Portland neighborhood that I definitely recommend to those that can afford it. The homes in Markham tend to be a bit pricier. In this area, you definitely could shut your eyes and picture yourself in the suburbs. In fact, Markham really might as well be in the suburbs. Yet, if you hop on I-5, you are just a short drive away from Downtown Portland. This really is one of the amazing things about the SW Portland areas!

Markham is home to the Maricara Natural Area, which is quite large at 17 acres. This park feels more like a natural retreat than many Portland areas. It has huge trees and 2600 feet of trails. It also has a wetland and protected stream! Marshall Park is also conveniently located for Markham residents. This area has a 400 foot wide canyon with nature trails within it. It also has a cute waterfall. Clearly, Markham is ideal for the nature lover.

Maplewood is a SW Portland neighborhood near Multnomah. There are some lovely homes in this area. In addition to finding upscale suburban homes, you also see homes with more of a rural feel. In this area, you will also see a lot of families and seniors who seem fairly established. One great thing about the houses in this region is that you can find some truly stunning views.

While there isn't much to do right in Maplewood, it is an easy trip to downtown. Also Maplewood residents tend to frequent Multnomah Village. The village has dozens of interesting shops and galleries. It is a good place for antiquing. This community has been called "Portland's best kept secret!" There is also a lot of community spirit with interesting events for families taking place year-round.

Gabriel Park is right next to Maplewood on the East Side. On the West side, there is the Portland Golf Club. So there are definitely recreational activities to be found right in the Maplewood backyard. This is a great place for those who can afford it and want a safe convenient neighborhood that is also close to downtown.

Hayhurst is a SW Portland neighborhood south of Bridlemile. It offers some real convenience, as it is just a few blocks away from the Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, which can take you right to I-5. While there isn't much in the way of shopping and dining right in Hayhurst, it really is conveniently located both to downtown as well as to Beaverton. There are a variety of home styles and also apartments are quite common. Of course, you will need a car if you are to get around. Bicyclists are unlikely to find this area to be too accessible.

Right in the center of Hayhurst is Pendleton City Park. This park is not huge, at about 5 acres. One cool feature is a cool sculpture called Vincent, Waiting for Alice. (This has something to do with Alice in Wonderland.) You are also very close to Gabriel Park, which is much larger and has a baseball field and off-leash dog park.

It is interesting to note that there is a little Jewish community in Hayhurst. You can find some synagogues and housing for Jewish seniors.

The name of this neighborhood is fairly unimaginative. Yes, it is far Southwest ! This neighborhood really is far West. In fact, it is further West than even Lake Oswego. It is closer to Tigard. Not surprisingly, it really feels like the suburbs. It is a bit hard to believe that Far Southwest is technically still part of the city. You can find some various home styles, including some homes with good views. The area is relatively quiet and safe.

While this Portland locale may be somewhat forgotten, it still has a lot to offer. One major plus is that is right off of I-5. This means that you can get virtually anywhere in Portland fairly quickly if there isn't any traffic. In fact, downtown is only about 10 minutes away. However, on the down side, there can be some noise and pollution from the highway.

There is some greenery in Far Southwest, as it has the Lesser City Park, which is about 8 acres. This park has some nice paths and trees.

This area is definitely good for students, as it hosts the Portland Community College Sylvania Campus. This campus is quite pretty and built within some Douglas Fir forests. The campus does host some interesting activities. For example, the Winter Pow Wow attracts Native Americans for a variety of festivities.

Collins View is a SW Portland area that is near Marshall Park and South Burlingame. This neighborhood is right in the heart of the Lewis and Clark college area. This school is fairly small, but has a great reputation. While primarily undergrad, it also has an established law school. If you choose to live in Collins View, you almost won't feel that you are in the city at all. This area has a really suburban feel. There are some businesses, stores and restaurants, but they are in fairly low concentrations. If you are looking for more to do, it is easy to cross the Sellwood Bridge and get into Sellwood, which is a very pretty area that offers more to do including a lot of dining options.

You can find some nice homes in this part of town for affordable prices. Additionally, this area feels quite safe. Of course, you will see students throughout the area. But the Lewis and Clark students tend to be pretty easy to deal with, so don't worry about loud parties or roaming fraternity members.

Another major perk for Collins View is that it is very close to nature. It borders on the Tryon Creek State Park, which is the only state park in Oregon. When you enter this park, you truly feel as though you are on vacation. As a result, Collins View is a good choice for nature lovers.

Ashcreek is a SW Portland area that is near Maplewood, Multnomah and West Portland Park. Ashcreek is actually a bit close to the Beaverton/Raleigh Hills area than it is to Portland. However, with that said, it isn't difficult to get into Portland as residents can just get on the I-5. It is interesting to note that Beaverton is a pretty substantial suburb. While it doesn't offer all the independent businesses that Portland does, it is quite a mecca for shopping and dining in and of itself. Those who live in Ashcreek will find themselves frequenting the businesses in Multnomah Village. This historic area has some very cute and interesting shops and restaurants. There is also the Multnomah Arts Center, which offers an impressively large array of classes.

There are some really beautiful homes in Ashcreek. Many residents are quite well off. This is a great place for families wanting a safe spot or just for people who want some peace and quiet. The area is also surrounded by parks that are just a short drive away including Gabriel Park, Woods Memorial Park, and Vista Brook Park.

Arnold Creek is a SW Portland neighborhood that is near Markham and Marshall Park. One great thing about this area is that it is so close to the Forest Highlands and Tryon Creek State Park. Tryon Creek is actually the only state park in Oregon. There is a lot to see! The park has tons of nature trails and many cyclists come here to bike on the paved trails. It is also possible to camp and birdwatch at Tryon Creek. This park is a major plus for those living in Arnold Creek, as they can easily "get away from it all."

Arnold Creek is actually closer to Lake Oswego than it is to downtown Portland. As a result, residents may find themselves seeking out entertainment and dining options in Lake Oswego for convenience sake. The good news is that Lake Oswego is quite a nice area with a relaxing vibe. The artificial lake also satisfies the need for outdoor aquatic activities like boating.

Those who choose to live in Arnold Creek will find that they have a tranquil and relaxed way of life. There is little commerce in this area. However, this part of town is close to all the necessary conveniences when they are necessary, but it also feels quite tucked away.

Woodlawn is a historic neighborhood that is emerging as a great place to live. This NE Portland Neighborhood is nearby King, Vernon and Piedmont. This area was settled way back in 1860 and was once a farming village. Due to its close proximity to Vancouver, in the late 1800's a train station was set up in Woodlawn to assist commuters. Homes and businesses sprung up to support the street station. Currently, it has a lot of buildings on the historic registry as many of these old sites were preserved.

The Woodlawn City Park is a very nice perk for this area. There is a special Community Garden near the Park, which is a central gathering place for the neighbors.

There are also some very interesting shops and restaurants including Woodlawn Coffe and Breakside Brewery. Another nice restaurant is called the Firehouse Restaurant. This is an upscale place that specializes in sustainable cuisine. Every year, this neighborhood becomes more and more revitalized and interesting! It is nice that Woodlawn has its own store and restaurants. Of course, residents will be easily about to access the Alberta district as well.

While Woodlawn might feel far removed from downtown Portland, it actually quite easy for people to bike downtown. In fact, you will see a lot of bicyclists in this area.

Vernon is a NE Portland neighborhood that can be found near King and Sabin. This area can be found North of Alberta Street. In fact, Alberta Street and NE Fremont Street will provide most of the shopping, dining and entertainment for those who live in Vernon. One great thing about this area is that it is very diverse. Many Portland neighborhoods don't come anywhere near matching this impressive level of diversity.

The streets tend to be fairly quiet, and well-maintained. You can find some really cute houses here, and you will see quite a few bungalows and cottages.

There isn't a lot of green space. In fact, the trees in this part of NE Portland tend to not be quite as dense as they are in many of the city's neighborhoods. However, there is Alberta Park, which has an off-leash dog area. While downtown Portland may feel far removed from Vernon, you actually can get there by car in about 10-15 minutes. A bus ride would take about a half an hour.

There is some crime in Vernon. This includes a fair amount of burglaries, larceny and quite a few thefts from cars. Obviously, if you live in Vernon, you will want to be aware of your surroundings especially at night.

Sumner is a NE Portland neighborhood that is located near the Portland International Airport. It is nearby the Roseway, Madison South and Cully neighborhoods. This area doesn't have a lot going for it in the way of greenery. However, it is pretty close to Rocky Butte Natural Area, which has some beautiful vistas and a lot of open space. Sumner is also very close to the Portland Bible College so some students live in this neighborhood.

Sumner isn't the safest Portland area. There are sometimes shootings and there is some petty crime and burglaries. Also due to the traffic in the area there can be car wrecks as well. The Sumner Association of Neighbors helps to prevent all kinds of crimes including stolen cars. They ask for people to report suspicious activity. So the good news is that there is a committed community that cares about improving the quality of life for those in Sumner.

One interesting landmark in Sumner is the Grotto National Sanctuary of our Sorrowful Mother. This is a 62 acre Catholic Shrine that is open year round to visitors. They have special celebrations during Christmas time. People from all over the city come to see this attraction.

Sullivan's Gulch is the neighborhood that surrounds the Lloyd Center mall. As a result, there is a lot of activity- perhaps too much activity. You are also just a block or so away from 84, so this area can be noisy. On the plus side, Sullivan's Gulch is incredibly convenient. Not only are you near the freeway, you are also just a short walk to the MAX light rail. Of course, Lloyd Center and the surrounding infrastructure really has all the shopping and dining you could possibly need. There are also a few large movie theatres include Regal Cineplex.

There are quite a few new developments in Sullivan's Gulch included streets of condos. I imagine a lot of people who live here are renters. However, you can also find some very nice old homes. Unfortunately, due to all that is going on in this area, there is some crime. Sadly, there were some gang related shootings near the mall recently.

Holladay Park is right across from the Lloyd Center. It is more of an urban type park that what you typically find in Portland. You don't get the "hidden in nature" feeling that you often get in Portland. The park does have nice sculptures and a fountain.

Sabin is a NE Portland area directly North of Irving Park. It is a convenient location as one can get to downtown fairly quickly and it is also just a short trip to the Alberta Arts district from Sabin. This part of town is very sleepy and feels quite safe. It is a good place for families who can afford it.

Most of Sabin is just a short walk from Fremont Street, which has some nice shops and restaurants. For a neighborhood with commerce, Fremont Street always feels quiet and relaxing. One nice spot is Grain and Gristle, which is a really cool gastropub in Sabin. Of course, if you want more activity and nightlife, you can always head up to Alberta.

The homes in Sabin tend to be quite nice, and you can find old homes that have been restored and classic bungalows. Another nice fixture in Sabin is Sabin Community Garden, where people come and take care of their own gardening. There is also the Sabin Neighborhood Tree Walk, which is a tour that allows visitors to appreciate the various old trees in Sabin, which include Sycamores, Redwoods and Red Oaks.

Roseway is a neighborhood in NE Portland surrounding Sandy Blvd. It is near Rose City Park, Beaumont-Wilshire and Madison South. This is a really pretty neighborhood with some great homes and tree lined streets. You can find some classic styles including Tudors, Bungalows, and Cape Cod style homes.

The Roseway Theatre is an amazing movie theatre on Sandy Blvd. that is located in Roseway. This historic theatre was recently remodeled and it really is a great place to catch a film for only a few dollars. Additionally, this theatre screens digital film, so you films like animations look amazing.

The Roseway Neighborhood Association is quite strong. The neighborhood organizes various events for families to improve the area with trees, murals, etc. It's nice to see a community that is so active. Glenhaven Park is about 15 acres and a nice fixture for the neighborhood. It is a good place for a Spring or Summer picnic. There used to be a wading pool but it was closed by the health department.

On the negative side, there is a lot of traffic on Sandy Blvd. and its not very walking friendly. There is a strong police presence on 82nd.

Rose City Park is a NE Portland area that is near Beaumont-Wilshire and Hollywood. This means that this neighborhood is quite convenient and near a great deal of shopping, businesses and restaurants. It is also quite accessible to route 84 so one can easily get on and off the highway. Rose City Park is also conveniently located to the MAX light rail on the NE 60th station. There are a variety of types of homes and many can be purchased for a reasonable price.

Golfers will be happy to learn that Rose City Park includes the Rose City Golf Course, which was built in 1923. As a result, this is one of the oldest courses in Portland. Various tournaments take place throughout the year.

Another interesting spot in this neighborhood is Roseway Theatre. This is an beautiful old theater that has been rehabbed. It is a fun place to see a film and shows are only $6. The Roseway is much more lavish than many cheap movie theatres in Portland.

This part of town got its name because the first year of the Portland Rose Festival took place in Rose City Park back in 1907.

Madison South is a NE Portland neighborhood that is very close to Rocky Butte State Park. It is also bordered to the West by Glenhaven City Park. This makes this part of town a very green location with plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The top of Rocky Butte is one of the prettiest vantage points in all of Portland. Not only can you see the Portland skyline, but also the mountains in the distance. This is also part of the Boring Lava group, which are cinder cones located in Oregon. This natural area is quite amazing and really the best part of this neighborhood. There are also two huge castle walls, which are good for climbing. You will also see various sporty folks biking through this park.

Next door to the park is the City Bible Church campus and Portland Bible College. If you aren't religious, you may feel that living so near these Christian places is a bit oppressive. However, if you do appreciate religion, you likely would consider this to be a plus for Madison South.

The homes in this area seem to be pretty nondescript and are available for fairly low rates. The streets tend to be more barren and less tree lined than what you will see in other Portland neighborhoods. Also you won't find too many interesting businesses and stores in Madison South. However, there are a variety of ethnic restaurants including Mexican and Vietnamese food.

King is a NE Portland neigborhood that is bordered by Humboldt and Boise. There are a high percentage of African Americans in King compared to other Portland neighborhoods. However, there are also a fairly decent ratio of "hipster types" who have come to this neighborhood due to the low prices as well as its proximity to the Alberta arts district. You will also find students in this neighborhood who attend the nearby Portland Community College.

King is a convenient location that offers easy access to the Alberta and Mississippi shopping areas. Home prices in King definitely tend to be lower in cost than in other Portland neighborhood.

King has a great community vibe, and it even has its own Farmer's market on Sundays during the Spring and Summer months. Often people in this area will get together for community projects to improve the neighborhood. There is definitely a strong sense of community. There are some drug houses in King and currently the government is working together to seek to solve this issue.

There aren't a lot of green spaces within King. However, it is close to some nice parks including Peninsula Park, Peninsula Community Center, and Alberta Park.

Cully is a NE Portland neighborhood that is very close to the airport and the Washington border. This urban neighborhood feels far more diverse than many Portland locations. There is a large community vibe in Cully, and you definitely get the feeling that people who live here take an active interest in improving their neighborhood.

One interesting place in Cully is the Rigler Community Gardens. This used to be an abandoned parking lot. It was transformed into a beautiful community space that opened in 2005. This area has a sculpture garden and an educational component as well, as it seeks to teach kids about agriculture. There aren't too many green spaces in Cully, but the Rigler Community Garden is a great example of what can occur when a community gets together.

You can find homes at a very low price in Cully. There are modest homes as well as starter homes throughout this region. It is a good place for families and those who are looking to buy a home at a reasonable price.

Argay is in East Portland right near Sandy Blvd. It is bordered by Russell and Parkrose. Argay has a lot to offer in terms of all the shopping and restaurants that are located in this part of town. Many people also find its proximity to Sandy to be quite beneficial. Although Sandy tends to be a busy street, you can get from one place to another quite quickly on this road. However, keep in mind that this neighborhood isn't very walkable, and you will find yourself hopping in your car to get from one place to another.

At first glance, Argay may not seem like the most attractive neighborhood. However, there are parks including Argay Park, which is almost 9 acres. Argay park has some pretty trees and gardens and a nice playground for the kids. It also has a decent size off-leash area for dogs.

Homes tend to be quite modest. Many provide pretty views of the mountains. I would imagine many people chose Argay due to the fact that you can find very affordable prices on homes. Argay also is quite close to the river.

Many people in Portland (even those who have lived here many years) have not heard of Ardenwald. However, this is a delightful family friendly neighborhood. Even though it is a bit out of the way, it has a lot to offer. It extends from Eastmoreland to Milwaukie. It is important to note that Ardenwald is crossed by the railroad, so one potential downfall is that you might find yourself often waiting for trains to pass.

There aren't too many restaurants, stores and businesses in Ardenwald. However, it is not far to drive to other areas where there is more going on. In exchange for things to do, Ardenwald offers quiet and safety. Additionally, home prices tend to be quite reasonable. This is a good place to buy a starter home for a modest budget, but still be within Portland's city limits and close to the action.

The Ardenwald-Johnson Creek neighborhood association is quite active. They even offer summer concerts in Ardenwald Park. This is a nice time for the community to get together.

Multnomah Village may feel out of the way for many Portlanders, but it is definitely worth a trip. Although it may feel remote, the fact is that this area is really only a 15 minute drive from downtown. This area has more than 100 different little businesses including art galleries, antique stores, and unique restaurants. Many people venture to this area to go to the independent bookstore Annie Bloom's.

There is a lot of community spirit in this area. In fact, every year there is a big neighborhood street fair that includes a parade. All of the local vendors offer discounts and street sales. Multnomah even has its own weekly newspaper called the Multnomah Village Post.

My mother takes classes at Multnomah Art Center. They offer a surprisingly large array of classes for a very reasonable price. This is a nice hub for the community. There is also a large park called Gabriel Park, which offers tennis, trails and a nice playground.

Most of the homes are pretty contemporary in style and you can also find a lot of townhomes in this area. Prices tend to be quite affordable.

Sylvan-Highlands is located west of downtown. It borders the Johnson Hoyt Arboretum and is South of the Willamette Stone State Heritage Site. One of the main selling points of this area is that it is easy to get to downtown. It is also easily accessible to Washington Park and the attractions it offers like the Oregon Zoo and Hoyt Arboretum. In fact, from some parts of this neighborhood you can even walk to those attractions.

Sylvan-Highlands has some older homes from the 1940's as well as those built in the 60's and 70's. You will also see some new condos in the area. There are some residences with beautiful views where you can see all of the mountains in the area. As a result, there really are a lot of very high home prices. Houses are on windy roads and most streets have dense forests.

There isn't too much in the way of shopping and restaurants in Sylvan-Highlands. However, basically everything you need is close by including a Zupan's Markets. Of course, as mentioned above, downtown Portland is not very far away.

Sylvan-Highlands is quite safe and very relaxing. This is an ideal area for families or seniors.

Concordia is a fun-filled area full of art galleries and interesting quirky restaurants. In recent years, a lot of stores have been added on Alberta Street, and they are really fascinating to check out. Blacks and Latinos who live in the neighborhood own many of the stores.

This area is still considered transitional. There are a lot of pretty old homes. Some have been completely remodeled and renovated, while others are not in very good shape. I believe you could still get a very good deal on a home in Concordia.

If you live and work in Concordia, you could likely find all you need in this part of town. The neighborhood even has its own New Seasons (Portland's organic independent grocery store.)

If you live in Alberta, you can take advantages of the yearly art on Alberta festival, which is truly amazing. You can enjoy all the various art galleries, cool restaurants and live music. Also many street vendors appear to sell their art during this festival. There really is nothing quite like it!

There are some parks in the area including Fernhill Park and Alberta Art. Fernhill has a special summer concert series that many residents attend. While these parks are nice, they aren't among my favorites in the city.

Grant Park is a neighborhood that always feels quite safe and family friendly. One of the highlights of this area is its namesake, Grant Park. This park is really one of the nicest in the city and includes everything one could want including gorgeous old trees, a playground, pool, and a dog area. It also has a special Beverly Cleary Sculpture garden dedicated to the children's book writer who lived in Grant Park when she was a child.

This neighborhood is extremely convenient and one of my favorites in the Northeast. You can easily get to Laurelhurst, Hollywood, and Irvington. There are some very pretty homes in various styles including craftsman, bungalows and cottages. The streets are all very well-maintained and people seem very laid back and relaxed. You will see a lot of families with children in Grant Park. I would say the homes are probably among the most expensive in the NE.

Although Grant Park doesn't have a lot of shopping, you can walk to stores and restaurants in Hollywood. Grant Park is also nearby public transportation options including the MAX in Hollywood and a variety of bus stops. Of course, since you are in NE Portland, a drive to downtown will take less than 15 minutes!

Portland's Hollywood neighborhood is full of surprising historical places. It also is a major shopping area and business district. You can find this area right along the highway ramp to I-84.

I always would travel to the Trader Joe's in Hollywood since there are only a few locations in the city. Recently, they added a massive Whole Foods, so you would have to say, all in all, this is a great neighborhood for those who like organic groceries. Not to mention, right at the subway station Hollywood has its own large farmer's market.

Apparently, most people who live in the Hollywood area are renters and not homeowners. You do see a variety of cottages and bungalows, as well as some newer condo type buildings.

I have also frequented the Hollywood Theatre many times. This grand historic theatre is a major plus for those who live in Hollywood. Most of the city's film festivals take place at the Hollywood Theatre and they also show a variety of independent films.

Hollywood doesn't have a major park, but it is close to Grant Park, which has everything you could want from a park including a pool, baseball field, and dog area. This park also has the Beverly Cleary Scupture Garden, which is a nice fixture in this city.

The major negative thing I have to say about Hollywood is that you will find some ugly chain stores in this neighborhood that you won't find in other parts of the city. For example, Hollywood hosts a variety of fast food restaurants (that personally I prefer not to see!) There also can be quite a bit of traffic.

I love the Irvington neighborhood. I have often driven through this part of town just to see the beautiful homes. You can find mansions and huge colonial homes. There are also a variety of apartments and newer buildings that run throughout this neighborhood.

Not only is Irvington pretty and historic, it is also convenient. You can walk to the MAX from certain parts of this neighborhood. It is also possible to walk to the Convention Center and the Lloyd Center. The Lloyd Center is a huge mall with all the stores you would expect. It also has two huge Loews movie cineplexes that show all of the newest films. My favorite vegan restaurant Blossoming Lotus Cafe is also located in Irvington. On Broadway there are a wide variety of boutiques, restaurants and bars. I really love that this neighborhood has its own independent shopping area in addition to the mainstream stores at the mall.

In addition to all of this, Irvington also has its fair share of parks. Irvington Park is about 16 acres and has a special off-lease dog park as well as a wading pool and playground. Throughout the area, you will find really pretty trees. In fact, there is a tour called rvington Classic Homes and Heritage Trees that explains all the historically significant parts of this area.

Yes, there are indeed islands in Portland, and Hayden Island is right in the Columbia River between East Columbia and Vancouver. While some parts of the island are still in transition, you can find some gorgeous homes. One amazing thing about this area is the houseboats and floating homes. They really are not only quite unique, but also quite lovely. A person who wants to experience an isolated existence can really have a true "getaway" in Hayden Island.

As one might guess, there isn't a lot of shopping on Hayden Island. Residents, however, can quickly access Northern Portland. I would imagine a lot of shopping is done at Jantzen Center, which has a Target and Fred Meyers. The closest MAX stop isn't too far away either, as it is at Delta Park. One issue that residents of Hayden Island must face is getting on and off the island, particularly during rush hour. Apparently, the commute to Vancouver can be a major pain!

Easily accessible are all the golf courses on the river including the Heron Lakes Golf Course and Portland Meadows Country Club. There also are nearby parks like the Columbia Children's Arboretum.

Eliot is located in an extremely convenient place. It is close to a wide variety of "happening" areas including the Beaumont-Wilshire and Alberta areas, Mississippi district and even the shopping and restaurants in the Belmont/Hawthorne District. Plus, the Fremont Bridge can quickly take you to downtown.

You see a wide variety of different types of people living in this area including families, and seniors. It is one of those places where you will see well-kept renovated homes across the street from dilapidated buildings with piles of trash. You can indeed find some great homes in this part of town for a very affordable budget. You don't get the feeling that you are extremely safe in this area, but it isn't horrible either.

Eliot itself offers a variety of interesting shops and restaurants including the Nike Store, The Wonder Ballroom, and one of my favorite restaurants Toro Bravo. Some other fun places to hangout are the Wonder Ballroom and Tiny's Coffee. Also in Eliot is the Legacy Emanuel Hospital, which is one of the city's main hospitals. Undoubtedly, many of the area's establishments are frequented by hospital staff.

East Columbia is a neighborhood in the far north of Portland. There is a great deal of green space in this part of town including the Columbia Children's Arboretum. The arboretum is over 28 acres and has a wide variety of agriculture including trees planted by young local students. Residents of East Columbia are also quite nearby Washington state. Another interesting aspect that sets East Columbia apart from other parts of town is the fact that there are numerous golf courses including Heron Lakes Golf Course and Columbia Edgewater Golf Course.

The types of homes you will find in East Columbia depend on the part of the neighborhood in which you look. Some areas are quite transitional, while others offer impressive, beautiful homes. While there isn't too much in the way of businesses, restaurants and shopping options right in East Columbia, you can access these areas through just a quick drive. There is the Jantzen Beach Shopping center, which has a Target and Safeway, as well as the New Seasons in the Arbor Lodge area.