More than a century ago, St. Johns, Oregon, began as a tranquil town nestled where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers meet. Today, this captivating North Portland neighborhood maintains its inviting, small-town atmosphere, boasting a wealth of locally owned businesses, cozy pubs, and charming cafes. For those seeking an immersive experience in St. Johns, consider a stay at the St. Johns Inn, perfectly positioned near the neighborhood’s delightful attractions and eateries. Pack a picnic for a relaxing afternoon in Cathedral Park, marvel at the iconic St. Johns Bridge, and prepare to uncover the enchanting, lesser-known treasures of Portland within St. Johns, Oregon.
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Accommodation Options in St. Johns, Oregon
While exploring St. Johns, Oregon, finding the right accommodation is key to a comfortable visit. Although St. Johns proper primarily offers the St. Johns Inn for hotel stays, the surrounding North Portland area provides a broader range of options, particularly in the Jantzen Beach area. This location offers convenient freeway access, making it easy to explore not only St. Johns but also other popular Portland neighborhoods and even Vancouver, Washington.
For those seeking alternative lodging within St. Johns, vacation rentals are readily available. Platforms like Airbnb, Vacasa, and Vrbo offer a variety of homes and apartments, providing a more local and often more spacious experience. These rentals can be an excellent choice for families or travelers wanting a home-away-from-home feel while discovering the unique character of St. Johns, Oregon.
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Coffee Culture and Culinary Delights in St. Johns, Oregon
St. Johns, Oregon, is a haven for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Start your day with a visit to The Sparrow Bakery, renowned for its signature Ocean Roll pastry – a local favorite that perfectly complements a freshly brewed coffee. For a wider selection of coffee creations, head to Cathedral Coffee on Willamette Boulevard. This popular spot features a rotating menu of seasonal coffee drinks and delectable baked goods, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
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When it comes to dining, St. Johns offers a diverse range of options. For an authentic and budget-friendly experience, don’t miss Tienda Santa Cruz. Tucked inside a Mexican grocery store and bakery, this unassuming eatery has garnered rave reviews for its generously sized tacos and burritos bursting with genuine Mexican flavors.
For pizza aficionados, Signal Station is a must-visit. Housed in a beautifully repurposed vintage gas station, Signal Station serves up delicious hand-tossed pizzas in a unique setting, complete with a spacious outdoor patio perfect for enjoying Portland’s pleasant weather.
Outdoor Activities and Green Spaces in St. Johns, Oregon
Nature and outdoor recreation are integral to the charm of St. Johns, Oregon. Cathedral Park, one of Portland’s most beloved green spaces, is a focal point of the neighborhood. It’s a popular destination for dog walkers, picnickers, boaters, and even wedding celebrations. The recent addition of a floating dock has further enhanced access to the Willamette River, making it easier for swimming and launching kayaks or paddleboards.
Throughout the year, Cathedral Park hosts various events, including the highly anticipated Cathedral Park Jazz Festival, a free annual event that draws music lovers from across the region. Just a short walk from the park, Occidental Brewing provides a refreshing escape with its Euro-inspired beers. Their airy tasting room is the perfect place to unwind with a summery kolsch after a day of exploring.
For a more extensive outdoor adventure, Sauvie Island is just a short drive from St. Johns. This large river island, often compared in size to Manhattan, offers a full day of activities, including swimming, hiking, birdwatching, and visits to local farms, making it an ideal destination for families seeking outdoor fun near St. Johns, Oregon.
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Entertainment and Events in St. Johns, Oregon
St. Johns, Oregon, boasts a vibrant entertainment scene with options to suit various tastes. The Fixin’ To, a Southern-inspired bar and music venue, offers a lively atmosphere with rock bands, bourbon-spiked sweet tea, and their signature Frito pies. Leisure Public House, another popular local spot, features a welcoming patio that hosts bocce ball and ping-pong games late into the evening.
Movie enthusiasts will appreciate St. Johns’ historic cinemas. Both St. Johns Twin Cinema and McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub, each over a century old, showcase first-run films with a touch of classic charm alongside modern cinematic technology. Adding to the experience, both theaters serve local beers and classic movie snacks, along with heartier fare like pizza and burgers, creating a unique movie-going experience in St. Johns, Oregon.
Don’t miss the St. Johns Bizarre, an annual parade and street fair held on the second Saturday of May. This lively event transforms six city blocks into a festival atmosphere with live music, a parade, children’s activities, over 100 vendors, and a beer garden, offering a true taste of the community spirit in St. Johns, Oregon.
Shopping and Unique Finds in St. Johns, Oregon
For those who enjoy unique shopping experiences, St. Johns, Oregon, is home to Blue Moon Camera and Machine. This internationally recognized store is a pilgrimage site for photographers, offering a vast collection of vintage film cameras and one of the world’s few remaining optical printing labs. Exploring Blue Moon is like stepping into a museum of photographic history, making it a must-visit for camera enthusiasts and collectors.
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Fun Facts About St. Johns, Oregon
- Named After a Person: St. Johns is named in honor of James John, an early settler known for his generosity. He donated land to those in need and contributed to building a public school in the area.
- Annual St. Johns Bizarre: This popular annual event, held every second Saturday in May, features a parade, live music, and numerous vendors.
- Forest Park Access: St. Johns offers easy access to Forest Park. Parking near the St. Johns Bridge and crossing it provides a less crowded entry point to this expansive urban forest.
St. Johns: A Gem Within North Portland
St. Johns is a distinct and charming neighborhood within the larger North Portland area, sometimes referred to as the “Fifth Quadrant.” North Portland encompasses several unique neighborhoods, including Mississippi/Williams and Kenton, each with its own character and attractions. Besides St. Johns, North Portland is also home to the Portland International Raceway, Peninsula Park Rose Garden, and the Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area, offering a diverse range of experiences within easy reach.
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St. Johns, Oregon, with its blend of small-town charm and Portland vibrancy, offers a unique and rewarding experience for visitors and locals alike. From its scenic parks and historic bridge to its thriving coffee shops, restaurants, and community events, St. Johns invites you to explore and discover its many hidden gems.
