ST. JOHNS HISTORY TOUR

Tour

Tour Description

Historic St. Johns

St. Johns has a vibrant restaurant and business scene, with something to offer everyone vegan establishments to traditional bars. St Johns was a distinct independent city absorbed by the City of Portland on two occasions; and in many ways still asserts an independent spirit.. This is an eclectic mix of restaurants and small Businesses 64% of which are women owned. It is worth a visit on your vacation. 

Itinerary

The tour starts at Two Stroke Coffee Co. 8517 N. Lombard St., Portland, OR, 97203. This walk has some steep grades and runs between 90 minutes and 105 minutes because of the incline. The tour is offered year round on the third Saturday of each month at 3 pm.

Local Highlights 

View from under neath the St. Johns bridge showing only one piller

St. Johns Bridge: This historic gothic style suspension bridge completed in 1931 is a symbol of the neighborhood and offers stunning views of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. The tallest bridge in Portland conects St. Johns to Linnton and the Northwest industrial areas. 

 

Cathedral Park: A beautiful park located directly below the St. Johns Bridge. It features a boat ramp, a dog off-leash area, a hiking trail, and a natural habitat wetland sanctuary.

St. Johns Twin Cinema: This historic movie theater, formerly known as the Northgate Theater, Venetian Theater  and the St. Johns Theater, has been a staple of the St. Johns neighborhood since 1913. 

National Cash Register Building: A historic building fro the 1905 Fair that was floated across the river and served initially as an iconic church until it was transformed into a bar.

Pricing

Thanks to a partnership with The St. Johns Boosters, Venture Portland, and Prosper Portland the tours are offered at a reduced rate

Adults $20 Seniors $15

Policies

Please arrive 5-10 minutes prior to start time. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that are appropriate for the weather. It’s a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, and a jacket or umbrella if there’s a chance of rain.  We allow friendly leashed dogs on our tours. There are no refunds for no shows. Tours run rain or shine.  We can often accommodate a friend if the walking tour you booked is sold out. You should receive a text for your tour guide in advance of the tour. If you will be arriving late, reply to the text so that the guide can direct you to a meet up location at a later stop point on the tour.

Parking and Transportation 

Street parking is free in this area. Watch for hour limitations on posted signs.

St Johns Bridge at night"
Historical photo of St Johns Plaza"
Historical photo of a street in St Johns"
Photo of St Johns as seen from the west bank of the Willamette River"
Historical photo of a group of women in swimwear at Pier Park Pool"
Historical photo of the St Johns Bridge under construction"
Historical photo of a children's Bible class at St Johns Community Center"
Historical photo of a street in St Johns"
Historical photo of St Johns City Hall"

Community Sponsors

Prosper Portland logo
Venture Portland logo
St. Johns Boosters logo