Pittock Mansion
Historic 1914 mansion offering breathtaking panoramic views of Portland and the Cascade Mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Pittock Mansion
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1914 mansion offering breathtaking panoramic views of Portland and the Cascade Mountains.
"A true treasure perched high above Portland with some of the most stunning panoramic views."
🎯 Views are the Main Event
The panoramic views of Portland and mountains are free! The mansion entry has a fee, but the vistas are priceless.
👟 Steep Hike from Bus Stop
If taking the bus, expect a steep climb through Forest Park. Wear comfortable shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City & Mountain Views
Exterior grounds
Breathtaking vistas of Portland, Mt. Hood, and Mt. St. Helens. A photographer's dream!
Historic Mansion Interior
Inside the mansion
Explore period furnishings and learn about Portland's early days. A glimpse into a bygone era.
Beautifully Maintained Gardens
Mansion grounds
Peaceful and picturesque gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting There: Bus vs. Car
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Views are the Main Event
The panoramic views of Portland and mountains are free! The mansion entry has a fee, but the vistas are priceless.
👟 Steep Hike from Bus Stop
If taking the bus, expect a steep climb through Forest Park. Wear comfortable shoes!
🚗 Parking Fee
Parking is available but comes with an hourly or daily fee. Consider this in your budget.
🕰️ Quick Mansion Tour
The mansion itself is relatively small and can be explored in about 30 minutes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Views are the Main Event
The panoramic views of Portland and mountains are free! The mansion entry has a fee, but the vistas are priceless.
👟 Steep Hike from Bus Stop
If taking the bus, expect a steep climb through Forest Park. Wear comfortable shoes!
🚗 Parking Fee
Parking is available but comes with an hourly or daily fee. Consider this in your budget.
🕰️ Quick Mansion Tour
The mansion itself is relatively small and can be explored in about 30 minutes.
♿ Elevator Available
An elevator is available for those who need assistance navigating the mansion.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Pittock Mansion for its stunning panoramic views of Portland and the surrounding mountains, calling it a must-visit for its scenic beauty. The historic mansion itself is appreciated for its well-preserved architecture and period furnishings, offering a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century life. While some find the mansion interior a bit small, the overall experience, including the gardens and the free access to the vistas, is highly regarded.
"Cool hangout spot with great panoramic views. The mansion itself is small but nice and takes about 30 minutes to explore. Bathrooms inside and a small guesthouse you can also see inside is also included with the ticket. The main attraction is the views outside the mansion overlooking Portland and beyond. The view itself is free just go inside the house you have to pay. Also don’t forget to pay for parking. Have fun!"
Guillermo Rangel
"Gorgeous grounds to walk and views are amazing too. The mansions architecture and furnishings are so impressive for their time and still beautiful even now. Spent about an hour to hour and a half and it was want busy at all, this was on a Wednesday morning. They have an elevator if you need it. Very nice staff. Parking is $2 an hour or $8 for the day. They had a couple handicap spaces which are very close to the mansion."
Kimberly Carver
"Beautiful!! I think it’d be cool if some of the rooms weren’t roped off — like the upstairs bathroom— but I also understand why they aren’t. I really liked that the servants quarters and such were on display (kinda). That was super cool. I loved all of the teapots and china on display as well"
Beau Barnett (Zero)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and pay for parking, or take the TriMet bus line 15 to NW 27th and Vaughan. From there, it's a steep hike up through Forest Park to reach the mansion.
Yes, there is parking available on-site, but it requires a fee. You can pay hourly or for the full day.
Yes, you can walk or hike to Pittock Mansion, especially if you're coming from the bus stop or exploring Forest Park. Be prepared for inclines.
Yes, the TriMet bus line 15 stops nearby, offering public transport access. From the stop, it's a hike to the mansion.
Many visitors find the views from the grounds to be the highlight. Arriving on a clear day, especially during sunrise or sunset, offers the most dramatic scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee to enter the mansion itself. However, exploring the grounds and enjoying the views is free.
There is a fee for mansion admission and a separate fee for parking. Check the official website for current pricing.
The grounds and the panoramic views of Portland are free to access and enjoy.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Pittock Mansion website for the most up-to-date information on hours and days of operation.
Yes, you can walk around the gardens and enjoy the exterior views without purchasing a ticket for the mansion interior.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoints overlooking Portland and the mountains are prime photo locations. The mansion's architecture and the gardens also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside the mansion, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or rules posted on-site.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for cityscapes and mountain views. Midday can be bright but still offers clear vistas on good weather days.
As with most historic sites and city parks, drone usage is likely restricted. It's best to check local regulations and the mansion's policies before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the city or distant mountains.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring the mansion interior and grounds. If you plan to linger and enjoy the views, allow more time.
Inside, you'll find period furnishings, historical exhibits detailing the Pittock family and Portland's past, and insights into the mansion's innovative technology for its time.
Yes, restrooms are available inside the mansion for visitors.
Children can enjoy the grounds and the visual aspects of the mansion. The historical context might be more engaging for older children.
Built in 1914, Pittock Mansion was the home of Oregonian publisher Henry Pittock and his wife, Georgiana. It showcases their lives and Portland's early development.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the trip part of a larger outdoor adventure. The hike up from the bus stop through Forest Park can be an exciting part of the experience for active families.
Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited, and focus on the visual aspects and the fun of exploring a historic estate. The free access to the grounds and views makes it an accessible outing for families looking for an enriching experience without a high cost.🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
The path leading up to the mansion from the bus stop is known for being steep, offering a good workout and rewarding views as you ascend.Once at the mansion, the gardens and surrounding grounds provide a beautiful natural setting to relax and take in the scenery. The combination of urban exploration and natural beauty makes Pittock Mansion a perfect spot for a day trip that satisfies both your desire for a good walk and your appreciation for scenic landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Pittock Mansion
The mansion's architectural style blends elements of French Renaissance and English Tudor, creating a grand and imposing structure that stands out against the natural landscape.The interior design reflects the wealth and taste of the Pittock family, with period furnishings, intricate woodwork, and decorative details throughout. Each room offers a glimpse into the lives of Henry and Georgiana Pittock, highlighting their contributions to Portland's growth. The attention to detail, from the ornate fireplaces to the carefully curated china and teapots, makes exploring the mansion a journey back in time.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the mansion's construction and features provide valuable insights into the domestic engineering and architectural trends of the early 1900s. It's not just a beautiful house; it's a historical document of innovation and lifestyle. The preservation efforts ensure that future generations can appreciate its significance and the stories it holds.
Experiencing the Iconic Views
Many visitors recommend timing your visit for sunrise or sunset to witness the city lights twinkle to life or to catch the golden hues painting the sky and mountains.
While the mansion interior requires an admission fee, the views themselves are free to enjoy. This makes Pittock Mansion a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the essence of Portland's landscape. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just someone who appreciates a good view, the vistas from Pittock Mansion are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit