Plan Your Visit
Your adventure starts here in Oregon’s First City!
Just 13 miles south of Portland, Oregon City is easy to reach — and even easier to enjoy once you arrive. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, this is your guide to getting here, finding your way around, and making the most of your time. Explore sample itineraries and find helpful visitor resources and services to make your trip effortless.
While you’re here, browse our recommendations for places to stay, local dining, and things to do — from historic landmarks and riverfront trails to vibrant arts, shopping, and community events.
Getting Here
Oregon City is conveniently located along Interstate 205 and Highway 99E, just south of the Portland metro area.
- From Portland: Take I-205 South to Exit 9 (Oregon City).
- From Salem: Take I-5 North to I-205 North, Exit 9.
- From Bend or Eastern Oregon: Connect via Highway 26 or Highway 22 toward I-205.
Public parking is available throughout downtown and near major attractions. Most areas offer free or low-cost timed parking, with additional lots near the Municipal Elevator and End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. Electric vehicle charging stations are located in several downtown lots.
Amtrak serves nearby Oregon City Station (station code: ORC), located in the heart of downtown at 1757 Washington Street. The station is part of Amtrak’s Cascades route, connecting Eugene, Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver, B.C. The station is within walking distance of shops, dining, and the historic Municipal Elevator.
There are two departures daily from Portland’s Union Station to Oregon City at 11:08 am and again at 6:09 pm. Tickets for the 25 min. trip cost only $2 in Coach or $13 in Business Class.
Travel Oregon City is a proud supporter of Frog Ferry, a proposed public river transit option connecting Portland and communities along the Willamette River. This hopeful future service will provide travelers with a scenic, sustainable, and car-free way to reach Oregon City’s downtown waterfront.
The nearest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), located about 30 minutes north of Oregon City via I-205 or I-5. PDX offers nonstop flights from across the U.S. and major international gateways. Car rentals and rideshare options, as well as the MAX lite rail (to AMTRAK connection) are available at the terminal, making it easy to start your Oregon City adventure.
Getting Around
Walkable Downtown
Downtown Oregon City is compact and pedestrian-friendly, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, museums, and falls viewpoints. Stroll along award-winning Main Street, where history meets modern flavor. The Municipal Elevator connects downtown to the upper Mid-Town, McLoughlin Historic District and scenic McLoughlin Promenade. The Willamette River Greenway Trail takes you from downtown to activities around the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers, such as the Sportcraft dock, John Storm Park and dock, Clackamette Park, and Clackamas Cove.
Walking, Running & Biking Trails
Oregon City offers diverse trails, including paved paths like the Clackamas River Trail and easy, scenic routes like the Canemah Pioneer Cemetery trail. A print version of the Oregon City Walking & Biking map is free and available to pick up at City Hall, Pioneer Community Center, Carnegie Library, and more.
Layout & Neighborhoods
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Downtown
Along Main Street — home to shops, dining, and historic sites.
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Mid-Town / McLoughlin District
Historic homes, viewpoints, and easy elevator access.
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Hilltop Area
Modern conveniences, hotels, and the Clackamas Community College campus.
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Canemah
A historic riverside neighborhood near Willamette Falls.
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Unincorporated & Rural Areas
Beyond the more populated areas are agritourism opportunities, including u-pick farms and vineyards.
Accessibility
Did you know that Oregon is the first state to receive the "Accessibility Verified" certification from Wheel the World? This is a recognition for its state-run tourism and outdoor recreation efforts. As a part of this statewide effort, Oregon City is committed to providing a welcoming experience for all visitors.