Mount Scott, Portland

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.

Mt. Scott-Arleta is a neighborhood in Southeast Portland. Those living in Mt. Scott include young families and singles, with most residents in their 20s and 30s. Though the neighborhood isn't very diverse, it has a very welcoming feel.

The Mt. Scott Community Center, located right in the heart of the neighborhood, offers a pool, roller skating arena, and lots of other family-friendly activities. It's located right in Mt. Scott Park, which has lush lawns, a canopy of trees, and a great playground. Rain or shine, take the kids here for an enjoyable day.

Mt. Scott is home to a number of locally-owned cafes, bakeries, bars, and other small businesses frequented by those who live in the neighborhood. These tend to be located on the outskirts of the neighborhood, particularly along 82nd Ave (the eastern boundary of Mt. Scott) and SE Foster Road (which is along the north side). The center of the neighborhood offers a few businesses, but it's mostly occupied by the park and residential streets.

The residential streets feature large trees lining rows of beautiful older homes. Some streets are decidedly suburban, while others feel more urban. Homes here tend to be less expensive than in comparable Portland neighborhoods.

The area around SE Woodstock blvd is one of Portland's little known hot spots, with close proximity to Reed college it has a lot of small college bars and inexpensive places to eat. Otto's on 42nd and Woodstock will grill you a fresh sausage and day of the year, rain or shine on their front porch BBQ, you can choose from their basic sausages or pick out something inside the store an d have them grill it for you right there. another excellent place to eat is Mezzo at 54th and Woodstock, its a little off the main part of the boulevard but it has excellent and affordable Lebanese cuisine, don't miss the hummus with fresh baked pita and lemonade with mint, it can't be beat.