Portland

Hillside, Portland Neighborhood

Hillside offers diverse housing options, including single detached homes and various apartment sizes, catering to different preferences. The neighborhood features numerous bike lanes that enhance cycling convenience throughout the area. There are several local restaurants and cafes conveniently located nearby, adding vibrancy to daily living. Educational institutions, including primary and high schools, are accessible from all parts of the neighborhood. Residents have access to peaceful green spaces like Pittock Acres Park, perfect for relaxation. The area showcases energetic streets with a notable selection of entertainment venues and nearby bars, creating a balanced environment between liveliness and tranquility.

Hillside is a "jack-of-all-trades" when it comes to the feel of this part of Portland. This neighborhood has a large number of areas to enjoy. Despite the fact that there are usually many people around, there is a wide variety of entertainment venues, and with the nightlife venues in nearby neighborhoods, it is very easy to find a place to grab a drink because they are generally located very close by. Hillside is very quiet overall, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor. There are a few parks close by for residents to visit, like Adams Park and Forest Park South, which makes it very easy to access them from numerous locations within the neighborhood.

Highlights of Hillside

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🏞️ Hillside Community Center & Park

Situated on NW Hillside Drive, this vibrant community hub features tennis courts, a playground, indoor recreation facilities, and lush open fields, making it a gathering point for neighborhood events, classes, and family activities year-round.

🎡 International School of Portland

Located just off NW Cornell Road, the International School of Portland offers an acclaimed language immersion program, drawing families to the area and contributing to Hillside’s global-minded, tight-knit community.

🍞 Stepping Stone Café

A beloved neighborhood institution on NW Quimby Street, Stepping Stone Café is famous for its cozy ambiance and hearty breakfasts, serving up ‘Mancakes’ and local flavor to Hillside residents and visitors since 1983.

🛶 Lower Macleay Trailhead

Found at the edge of Hillside near NW Upshur Street, this popular trailhead offers direct access to Forest Park’s extensive trail system, making it a favorite spot for hikers, runners, and nature lovers who want outdoor adventure steps from home.

🏠 Unique Hillside Architecture

Hillside is renowned for its distinctive mid-century modern and Northwest contemporary homes perched along winding streets like NW Macleay and NW Hermosa, providing stunning views and a unique architectural character that defines the neighborhood.

Hillside

This August in Hillside

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

Wednesday, August 5, 2026

Shemanski Park Farmers Market

Shemanski Park, downtown Portland • 10:00 am–2:00 pm

Just a short trip from Hillside, this vibrant downtown farmers market offers fresh produce and artisan goods—perfect for grabbing local treats or enjoying a casual midweek outing.

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Chinese Festival

Pioneer Courthouse Square • 11:00 am–6:00 pm

Celebrate diverse cultural heritage downtown with performances, food, and community spirit—an enriching and accessible event for Hillside residents seeking a festive day out.

August 8–9, 2026

Washington Park Summer Festival

Rose Garden Amphitheater, Washington Park

A beautiful park-side fest featuring big band and soul music in nearby Washington Park—ideal for a relaxed afternoon or evening outing close to home.

Friday, August 21 & Saturday, August 22, 2026

Summer Free for All Concerts in East Portland Parks

Glenwood Park (and others) • 6:30 pm (concerts), movies at dusk

Part of the city’s popular free Summer Free for All series, these family‑friendly concerts and movies offer accessible evening entertainment—easy to reach and free to enjoy.

Friday, August 21–Sunday, August 23, 2026

MADE Handmade Bicycle Show

Zidell Yards

A regional highlight celebrating handmade bicycle culture with rides and events—great for bike‑loving Hillside residents looking to engage with Portland’s craft and cycling community.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Hillside

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Hillside

Neighborhood Characteristics

Full Guide →

Demographics

Full View →