10 Places Where You Can Still Experience Old Portland
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Katherine Green
Author
Portland seems to be changing every day. From new buildings lining the streets to new residents filling them, it’s easy to forget to what the city looked 5 years ago, let alone 20 or more. Enjoy a walk through Portland’s history at these 10 spots around town where you can still catch a glimmer of the city’s rich history.
Our iconic amusement park has been around since 1905. A trip to the park's midway will take you back in time and its rides will thrill you, including the new Adrenaline Peak opening this spring.
This small shop has been around since 1913 and continues to feature an old-time soda fountain and friendly service, which may just transport you to another era.
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Open since 1915, this classic Portland theater has the longest-running Rocky Horror Picture Show and has been a cornerstone of Portland culture for over a century.
Our oldest restaurant and bar is a great place to experience old Portland. Around since 1879, Huber's serves up a memorable Spanish Coffee and some equally as delicious food.
Our iconic 4-bowl drinking fountains are peppered around town and are an everyday link to our city's past. Installed in 1912 after mill owner Simon Benson recognized a need for his workers to have access to fresh water instead of beer come lunchtime, there are 46 fountains around town that you can still enjoy today.
Built in 1883, this Victorian-style church turned concert hall is a Portland landmark. Enjoy the experience at one of the weekly Wednesday free concerts held there.
Many of our parks are newer, but the Park Blocks have been in place since 1869. Originally developed after Daniel Lownsdale donated a strip of land to protect his own downtown investments from fire, the park blocks set the stage for the subsequent growth of our city's park system.
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Installed in 1888, this historic fountain is the city's oldest piece of public art. Originally constructed as a drinking fountain for both people and animals, the fountain today is a prominent feature of Ankeny Plaza.
Another historic landmark, the Hollywood Theatre has been dazzling audiences since its opening in 1926. A premier spot for independent, foreign, and classic films, Hollywood Theatre is perfect for an escape into the past.
Finished in 1914, this iconic Portland mansion was home to Henry and Georgiana Pittock until their deaths in 1919. Family members lived in the home until 1958 and in 1962, the Columbus Day Storm destroyed its roof and caused much water damage. The house was transformed into a museum and today you can tour it and get a glimpse into the opulence of its original owners.
Where do you go to experience old Portland? Let us know in the comments below.
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