Hawthorne Bridge
Portland's oldest operating vertical lift bridge, offering iconic city views and a hub for community events and cycling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the drum circle
Hawthorne Bridge
Best Time
Experience the drum circle
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Portland's oldest operating vertical lift bridge, offering iconic city views and a hub for community events and cycling.
"The iconic Hawthorne bridge that signifies you are definitely in Portland, OR."
🚶♀️ Shared Path Alert
Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians on the shared path; it can get busy!
🎶 Sunday Drum Circle
Don't miss the energetic drum circle that often gathers on Sunday nights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Vertical Lift Design
The entire span
Witness the oldest operating vertical lift bridge in the US, a testament to early 20th-century engineering.
Panoramic City Views
Mid-span
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of downtown Portland, Tom McCall City Park, and other bridges.
Vibrant Community Hub
Eastbank Esplanade adjacent
Experience lively weekend parties with diverse EDM music and a buzzing atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Hawthorne Bridge
Experience the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Shared Path Alert
Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians on the shared path; it can get busy!
🎶 Sunday Drum Circle
Don't miss the energetic drum circle that often gathers on Sunday nights.
📸 Scenic Photo Ops
Perfect spot for scenic photos of downtown Portland and the river.
🚴♀️ East Side Extension
The east side extension leads smoothly to Grand Ave, bypassing industrial areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Shared Path Alert
Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians on the shared path; it can get busy!
🎶 Sunday Drum Circle
Don't miss the energetic drum circle that often gathers on Sunday nights.
📸 Scenic Photo Ops
Perfect spot for scenic photos of downtown Portland and the river.
🚴♀️ East Side Extension
The east side extension leads smoothly to Grand Ave, bypassing industrial areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hawthorne Bridge as an iconic Portland landmark offering beautiful city views and a vibrant community atmosphere, especially with its Sunday drum circles and lively events near the Eastbank Esplanade. While generally well-loved for cycling and walking, some caution is advised due to the shared paths which can become crowded.
"Drum Circle Every Sunday Night! Beautiful place to relax or take a jog! View of Tom McCall City Park and Downtown Portland as well as several Bridges!"
P T
"The iconic Hawthorne bridge that signifies you are definitely in Portland, OR. A lot of views just driving through the city and over the bridge. Tons of people out riding their bikes or even walking. Seems like the perfect location to take some amazing scenic photos or even hold your own mini photo shoot."
Aloha Kana
"Good place.Beautiful view."
Sombat Srinarat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hawthorne Bridge is easily accessible by car, public transit, and is a popular route for cyclists and pedestrians. Several bus lines stop nearby, and it's a central point for biking in Southeast Portland.
Limited street parking is available in the surrounding areas, but it can be challenging to find, especially on weekends. Consider public transport or biking if possible.
Yes, the Hawthorne Bridge has dedicated lanes for both cyclists and pedestrians. However, these paths are shared, so be aware of others.
The extension on the east side of the bridge provides a smooth transition to the Eastbank Esplanade, making it easy to access the waterfront path.
The bridge is generally accessible, but the shared paths can be narrow. It's advisable to check current conditions or visit during less crowded times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking or biking across the Hawthorne Bridge is free and open to the public.
The Hawthorne Bridge is open 24/7 for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. The lift span operates as needed for marine traffic.
There are no fees for pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles to use the Hawthorne Bridge.
Yes, the bridge is accessible at all times. However, specific events like drum circles or parties might have unofficial timings.
The Eastbank Esplanade is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
The mid-span offers excellent panoramic views of downtown Portland. The east side provides a great perspective looking back at the city, especially before sunrise.
It's best to pull over to a safe spot or stop completely before taking photos to avoid accidents on the shared path.
Early mornings offer calm cityscapes and beautiful light. Evenings can also be scenic with city lights.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local ordinances. It's recommended to check current rules before flying a drone in the area.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits.
🎫 🎶 Events & Activities
The Eastbank Esplanade often hosts weekend parties with EDM music. Sunday nights are known for spontaneous drum circles.
Yes, the bridge is a popular spot for jogging, with wide shoulders and scenic views. The east side extension offers a longer, uninterrupted path.
The Hawthorne Bridge has been used for public demonstrations, such as the 'Free Palestine' march in March 2024.
Events near the Eastbank Esplanade often feature various EDM genres like Bass, Dubstep, DnB, and House.
While there aren't designated picnic areas on the bridge itself, the adjacent Eastbank Esplanade is a great place for picnics.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. While there aren't specific playgrounds on the bridge, the nearby esplanade offers recreational opportunities. The Sunday drum circle can also be an engaging, albeit potentially loud, experience for older children.
🚴 Budget Travelers & Cyclists
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the Eastbank Esplanade, saving money on dining out. The bridge itself is a fantastic free attraction, offering great views and a glimpse into local life, especially with the Sunday drum circles.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles from both the east and west banks. The bridge's structure itself provides interesting lines and perspectives. Be mindful of traffic and other pedestrians when setting up shots, and consider visiting during less crowded times for unobstructed views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The bridge's vertical-lift mechanism allows it to be raised to accommodate taller vessels passing along the Willamette River. This functional aspect, combined with its historic architecture, makes it a unique landmark. It remains one of Portland's busiest bridges, particularly for cyclists, underscoring its continued relevance in the city's transportation network.
Recent events have also seen the Hawthorne Bridge become a site for public demonstrations, such as the 'Free Palestine' march in March 2024, showcasing its role as a public space for expression and community gathering.
Cycling and Pedestrian Experience
However, travelers should be aware that the path is shared between pedestrians and cyclists. This can lead to close calls, especially during peak traffic times. Some Redditors have noted that the 'redevelopment' of lanes hasn't necessarily improved safety, and caution is advised, with some recommending waiting for traffic or for others to stop before proceeding.
Despite the shared path, the bridge is a beloved route for many. The views looking back at downtown Portland, especially before sunrise, are frequently praised for their calm and scenic beauty, making the journey a pleasant experience for those on foot or on two wheels.
Vibrant Community and Events
One of the most cherished traditions is the drum circle that often convenes every Sunday night. This creates a unique and energetic ambiance, drawing locals and visitors alike. It's a beautiful place to relax, enjoy the music, or simply soak in the local culture.
Beyond organized events, the bridge itself is seen as an iconic symbol of Portland, offering great scenic photo opportunities. Its presence signifies arrival in the city and provides a backdrop for memorable experiences, whether you're driving, cycling, or simply enjoying the view.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit