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See Portland from a new perspective at these top viewpoints

With the help of PDXtoday readers, we’re compiling a running list of the best viewpoints to drink in sights of Portland and its surrounding natural beauty.

July 19, 2023 • 
Cambrie Juarez
A view looking over a river toward a city at sunset with a bridge and a pedestrian pathway jutting out over the water.

Watch a sunset wash Portland in shades of pink from the Eastbank Esplanade.

Photo by @irenemayphotography

Table of Contents
Pittock Mansion
Eastbank Esplanade

Not all cities can brag about having stunning views. But a place bisected by a large river, partially bordered by hilly forests, and within sight of snow-capped mountains surely can.

Portland boasts all of those vistas — the only question is finding the best viewpoints to see them. We looked high and low to find the top spots to take in the Rose City skyline and surrounding natural beauty.

A wide photograph showing a forested neighborhood in front of a city skyline with a snow-capped mountain rising in the distance.

Henry and Georgiana Pittock probably wouldn’t recognize Portland if they could gaze upon this view from their family home today.

Photo by King of Hearts

Pittock Mansion

The historic property in the West Hills is one of the city’s most popular overlooks — and for good reason. Wander to the far end of the grassy lawn extending behind the mansion to see downtown Portland and Mount Hood laid out before you. Pro tip: Hike to the lookout to avoid paying for onsite parking.

A photo taken at night showing a city across a river lit up with lights.

See the glittering city lights reflect off the water at night from the Eastbank Esplanade.

Photo by Cambrie Juarez, PDXtoday

Eastbank Esplanade

Stretching 1.5 miles long, the Eastbank Esplanade offers some iconic downtown Portland views. Gaze across the Willamette River at the blossoming cherry trees in Tom McCall Waterfront Park or get a clear view of the city lights at night.

What’s your favorite spot to take in views of Bridge City? Share it with us and we might feature it in a future newsletter.