Portland’s Extended “Family Room”
At the turn of the 20th century, the South Park Blocks was lined with mansions built by the most prosperous families in Portland. Those grand Victorian manor houses have been replaced by churches and apartment buildings; the art museum and historical society…and an ever expanding Portland State University.
Still a very prestigious neighborhood, the South Park Blocks is often called Portland’s extended “family room” because of the social, religious and educational institutions along the tree lined boulevard.
On this easy urban walk of about one mile, we’ll explore the history and architecture of this unique area, referred to as downtown’s “Cultural District”.
Oregon Historical Society
1200 SW Park Ave
Portland, OR 97205
