Homestead

Homestead, located in the West Hills of southern Portland, is best known as the home to Marquam Nature Park. This is a great area for hiking. Offering a unique mix of outdoorsy and urban activities, hikers love the Marquam Trail, which crosses urban areas on its way to downtown. SW Terwilliger Boulevard is another popular pathway for hiking, walking, running, and cycling. Another popular outdoor area is Duniway Park Lilac Garden, a beautiful place to exercise or relax.

The rest of the neighborhood is mainly residential, with a few important exceptions. Oregon Health & Science University (a medical university) and the Portland VA Medical Center are both here, in the part of the neighborhood many residents refer to as 'pill hill.' These are connected to the South Waterfront area by a unique aerial tram, which is recognizable to anyone who's traveled down I5 frequently.

A bonus for those living in the area is that they, too, can take the tram from South Waterfront up to the Homestead neighborhood. While there aren't many businesses in Homestead itself, a short tram ride to South Waterfront gives residents access to many restaurants, shops, and cafes, in addition to the waterfront.

You're bound to see lots of runners and dog walkers using Homestead's wide sidewalks. Homes in the area are set on winding streets, some of which can be fairly steep. Secluded homes and plenty of trees give Homestead a quiet, relaxed feeling.

Homestead is south of downtown right off of the Ross Island Bridge. A big part of this part of town includes the Marquam Nature Park. This area is one of those places that will allow you to forget you are in the city, as it has tons of trees and lots of hiking. Another good thing about the park is you can see amazing views of the city. Homestead also includes Duniway Park Lilac Garden.

There are a lot of different types of homes in this area, and it tends to have a small town feel. You almost feel as though you are in a special tucked away community.

Those who live in Homestead have the opportunity for awesome medical care as OSHU is right in this region. I always wondered why they called this "Pill Hill" but one day it dawned on me that the answer to this question was pretty obvious. OSHU is on a big hill. Because of the hospital, you can easily get on the aerial tram (which was originally designed for hospital staff and students). On this tram you can get over to South Waterfront where there is a lot more in the way of restaurants, shopping and activities.