Ever since the late 19th century, the Portland district of Nob Hill has given off an air of beauty and charm. It continues to be one of the city’s most upscale neighbourhoods, yet it has also developed an alternative sense of style. Visitors are almost spoilt for restaurants and galleries, while the shopping streets see boutiques mix with upscale retail chains. Situated to the west of Pearl District and north of Downtown, Nob Hill is easily identified by its glamorous Victorian townhouses. It’s then easily remembered for its inviting atmosphere.
Although Nob Hill remains a residential district, most townhouses along the main thoroughfares have been converted to eateries and shops. The southern half of 23rd Ave is dominated by upscale chains while the northern half contains more local stores. Restaurants proliferate around 21st Ave, along with a handful of nightclubs and other nightspots. In general, the northern part of Nob Hill celebrates the quirky nature of Portland, while the southern side has the most impressive old architecture.
Nob Hill is a place for a relaxed stroll, one that is likely to involve a lot of people watching and window shopping. Many of the side streets have an artistic feel, and there are some excellent restaurants to uncover down the sloping cobbled lanes on the west of the district. A tram runs along 23rd Ave, linking Nob Hill with neighbouring Pearl District and Downtown. Union Station is a short walk east of Nob Hill while the Portland Japanese Garden can be found on a steep hill above the district. It takes around 30 minutes by taxi to travel between Portland International Airport and Nob Hill.
Nob Hill’s distinctive townhouses date back to the 1880s and are based on the district’s sister neighbourhood, Nob Hill in San Francisco. With its leafy location above Downtown, Nob Hill has always retained its position as Portland’s most glamorous neighbourhood.