Deeply embedded in Portland's rich history, the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) attempts to preserve the essence of the early transportation industry. Large steam rails, vintage passenger cars and other such paraphernalia make up the exhibits. The functional rails are used for various tours and offer a chance to experience some old-world glory. Soak up some of the local cultures at this aptly named the heritage center.
The history of the Portland fire department dates back more than 150 years. The department came into existence in the 19th Century and has been serving the community of Portland since. The Historic Belmont Firehouse is a testament to the heritage of firefighting in Portland. The firehouse building has undergone renovation many times but still manages to hold on to its historic charm. Inside the building is the Jeff Morris Fire Museum, which has displays of many kinds of firefighting equipment. Unlike other museums where touching exhibits are strictly prohibited, you can touch and handle several of these artifacts to understand how they work. Some interesting elements include the Jeffers Sidestroke Handpump Fire Engine from 1859 and the Hose Cart from 1860. Timelines of the milestones of the fire department's history adorn the walls and an audio guide is also available for those who want additional information.
One of the most remarkable historic churches and landmarks in Portland is this church, built in 1883 and outlasting any other church. Both the interior and exterior of the church will amaze visitors with its detailed gothic architecture and such beautiful features as Victorian furniture and the ancient Hook and Hastings Tracker organ. Admission is free, and self-guided tours are available at the times and days listed. The church also doubles up as a concert hall with its excellent acoustic features and is also used as an event and renting space.
The city of Portland is home to a vibrant art scene, and there are always new artists whose work you can admire. This is a fact Jane Beebe is well acquainted with, leading to her establishing PDX Contemporary Art to provide new artists with the opportunity to display their talent on renowned platforms like PULSE Miami and VOLTA NY. This contemporary gallery houses works by artists like Amjad Faur, James Lavadour, Nancy Lorenz and Wes Mills. Private collectors and art lovers are sure to find much to their liking amongst the eclectic artwork displayed here.
Located in the midst of charming Northwest Portland, this architecturally fascinating church is a sight to behold. Built in 1905, First Immanuel Lutheran Church's graceful lines, sloping roof, A-frame dormers and steeple all add to its astonishing beauty. Like many other Portland churches, mission outreaches are a high priority and this church is no exception. Its congregation is involved in various community and neighborhood programs. All are welcome to attend services.
This antique stretch of highway draws visitors from around the world. The plush rainforests of the Columbia Gorge, combined with breathtaking views, provide some of the best natural entertainment in the country. Construction began in 1913 and was completed in 1922, but by the 1950s, the scenic route was becoming obsolete as a main thoroughfare. What is left of the highway has been renovated by the state and converted into a lovely trail linked with bridges and tunnels.
This antique stretch of highway draws visitors from around the world. The plush rainforests of the Columbia Gorge, combined with breathtaking views, provide some of the best natural entertainment in the country. Construction began in 1913 and was completed in 1922, but by the 1950s, the scenic route was becoming obsolete as a main thoroughfare. What is left of the highway has been renovated by the state and converted into a lovely trail linked with bridges and tunnels.
Located in the midst of charming Northwest Portland, this architecturally fascinating church is a sight to behold. Built in 1905, First Immanuel Lutheran Church's graceful lines, sloping roof, A-frame dormers and steeple all add to its astonishing beauty. Like many other Portland churches, mission outreaches are a high priority and this church is no exception. Its congregation is involved in various community and neighborhood programs. All are welcome to attend services.
Before Pioneer Place, there was this plaza. The original center of downtown Portland, the plaza was alive with business and entertainment and had a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It got a facelift in the 1980s when MAX, the local light rail, made tracks. The square is busy on weekends now, thanks to the Saturday Market, a city flea market and bazaar. The square, complete with Skidmore Fountain circa 1888, still has a bit of an historic feel.
Established in 1855, this is one of the oldest bone orchards in Portland. It's located right on Morrison Street, so there is some traffic noise, but it still manages to be a tranquil place in the city. Graveyard fans will find many interesting markers here, obelisks, a creepy Gothic crypt, and a memorial to the Grand Army of the Republic with Abraham Lincoln's face on it. The cemetery is popular with noisy crows that hop between the markers.
Atkinson Memorial Church is the oldest of its kind in the west. Since 1844, the independent church has supported religious freedom and diversity, welcoming all denominations into its fold. Apart from the mass services, programs for children are also offered. The towering, majestic church is awe-inspiring and reflects a touch of European opulence. The congregation, by contrast, is down-to-earth and happy to greet new members. The church is available for weddings and other special events.
Valley Community Presbyterian Church, always strives to achieve all round growth of the community along with the spiritual awareness. It tries to reach out to the diverse groups of different ages and sexes. Camps and workshops for youngsters and teenagers are organized. The highlight is the 'Valley Academy of Performing Arts', a part of the church that introduces various forms of arts. It hosts the summer Music and Drama Camp and summer Arts Exploration Camp, which gives a hands-on-experience of theater to the participants. Truly, the constant endeavor to uplift the community is evident.