Median Price
$515,000
Walk Score
91
Schools
B
Where it sits
Sullivan’s Gulch is bounded by NE Broadway to the north, NE 16th Avenue to the west, I-84 (Banfield Expressway) and the Union Pacific Railroad to the south, and NE 33rd Avenue to the east. This narrow, centrally located neighborhood is defined by its leafy streets, historic homes, and the distinctive cut of the “Gulch” (the sunken I-84 corridor). Sullivan’s Gulch is known for being a tranquil residential enclave with quick access to both Lloyd District amenities and bustling NE Broadway.
The Neighborhood
The housing mix in Sullivan's Gulch includes classic early 20th-century Craftsman bungalows, period revivals, and midcentury apartments. Mature trees line the streets, and front gardens add charm among pockets of historic multifamily buildings. Detached homes mix with small garden-court complexes, creating a green, private feel despite the central location.
The daily rhythm centers around NE Broadway, a vibrant main street offering groceries, cafés, and local shops within easy reach. The neighborhood's walkability draws residents strolling to pick up coffee, visit local parks, or hop on the MAX Light Rail. Side streets are peaceful, while Broadway hums with local business energy.
Parks, Trails & Green Space
Top 5 places to get outside
Holladay Park — A lively urban green space just west of Sullivan’s Gulch, Holladay Park offers tall trees, public art, wide lawns, and a popular splash pad during the summer months.
Irving Park — Located just north of the neighborhood, Irving Park provides ample space for sports, picnicking, and play.
Oregon Park — This small neighborhood park is nestled just east of Sullivan’s Gulch, featuring shaded benches, accessible play areas, and community gathering spaces.
NE 21st Avenue Parkway — A tree-lined center median along 21st Avenue, perfect for a stroll or a moment of urban tranquility amid the traffic.
Sullivan’s Gulch Trail (Future Connector) — Parts of the planned trail are accessible and offer a glimpse into this unique corridor’s potential for future biking and walking connectivity.
Coffee Shops
Top 5 places for a coffee
See See Motor Coffee Co. — A unique coffee shop for riders and locals alike, known for its motorcycle culture and house-roasted beans in a friendly, industrial-chic setting.
Costello’s Travel Caffè — Cozy and globally themed, Costello’s offers a relaxed space with locally roasted coffee, eclectic vibes, and light meals, making it popular for studying or meetups.
Jim & Patty's Coffee — This beloved local chain’s Broadway outpost serves up signature coffee drinks, freshly baked pastries, and a neighborhood-welcoming atmosphere.
Coffeetime — A longstanding Portland institution, Coffeetime celebrates local brews and hangout culture with comfortable seating and strong pour-overs.
Petite Provence Boulangerie & Pâtisserie — NE Broadway — A French-inspired bakery-café, Petite Provence delights with artisan breads, espresso drinks, and a tempting selection of pastries.
Restaurants & Food Carts
Top 5 places for a bite to eat
Pastini (Portland-owned regional) — A neighborhood favorite for casual Italian fare, Pastini makes everything in-house, offering classic pastas and local wines in a warm setting.
Kargi Gogo — A Georgian street food spot offering khachapuri, khinkali, and hearty stews in a cozy, fast-casual setting close to NE Broadway.
Nicholas Restaurant (NE Broadway) — Longstanding family-run Lebanese and Mediterranean restaurant, famous for its mezze plates, pita, and warm hospitality.
Chameleon Restaurant & Bar — A neighborhood spot with a varied menu of global comfort food, craft cocktails, and a welcoming patio.
Bluefin Tuna & Sushi — A small, local sushi bar with fresh rolls, classic Japanese dishes, and a loyal following among NE Broadway regulars.
Bars
Top 5 places for a drink
The Sandy Hut ("The Handy Slut") — A storied Portland dive with kitschy décor, classic cocktails, and a friendly-without-frills vibe.
EastBurn Public House — An indoor-outdoor pub known for local craft beer, creative cocktails, and swing seats—plus frequent trivia and music nights.
Billy Ray's Neighborhood Dive — A no-nonsense, long-loved watering hole serving up stiff drinks and local color.
Laurelhurst Theater Lounge — Adjoining the historic theater, the Lounge is a unique spot for a drink before or after a show, with a curated beer list and light bites.
McMenamins Broadway Pub — A reliable Oregon-owned outpost, Broadway Pub pours housemade ales and cider in a laid-back upstairs space with balcony seating.
Things To Do
Top 5 things worth your time
Laurelhurst Theater — A vintage art deco cinema known for second-run movies, indie films, and pizza and beer served in classic Portland style.
Holladay Park Fountain & Events — Frequent public events, outdoor concerts, and a splash-friendly fountain draw families and neighbors year-round to Holladay Park.
Irvington Farmers Market — A highly walkable Sunday market just north of Sullivan’s Gulch, featuring produce, baked goods, flowers, and local crafts.
Broadway Books — An independent bookstore beloved for literary events, author readings, and a deep selection of contemporary and classic titles.
Pacific Pie Co. Baking Workshops — This neighborhood bakery offers hands-on pie and baking classes alongside daily treats, inviting locals to roll up their sleeves.
Community Resources
Local services & organizations
Sullivan’s Gulch Neighborhood Association — Active in community events, land use discussions, and safety advocacy within the neighborhood boundaries.
Holladay Park Post Office — Full-service USPS branch serving residents and businesses in Sullivan’s Gulch and Lloyd District.
Northeast Coalition of Neighborhoods (NECN) — Regional coalition supporting Sullivan’s Gulch and neighboring communities with advocacy and resources.
Grace Memorial Episcopal Church — A local landmark known for spiritual gatherings, cultural events, and neighborhood outreach.
Portland Streetcar A Loop (Lloyd Center/NE 11th Ave Stop) — Convenient local transit connection supporting Sullivan’s Gulch and providing easy access to adjacent districts.
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Is It Right For You?
How Sullivan's Gulch balances out.
Every neighborhood trades one thing for another. Each scale is drawn from real data — price, walkability, era, and architectural character.
Everyday comfortA trade-off to weigh
Who it suits
You’ll likely love it if…
- Car-free living (exceptional walkability and transit options)
- Historic homes with character in a central location
- An active, engaged neighborhood association and local events
It might not fit if…
- Homes and apartments close to I-84 may have noticeable freeway noise
- Limited parking, especially near NE Broadway
- Modest lot sizes and denser multifamily zoning than some outer NE districts
Sullivan's Gulch FAQ
The questions we hear most about Sullivan's Gulch — and honest answers from people who know it.
Ask us anything →Homes here are predominantly early 20th-century Craftsman bungalows, period revivals, and a few midcentury apartment buildings. You’ll also find some garden-court complexes and duplexes reflecting the area’s evolution as a close-in streetcar neighborhood.
Yes—Sullivan’s Gulch earns a Walk Score of 91, making it one of Portland’s “Walker’s Paradise” districts. Most daily errands, dining, shopping, and transit connections are a short stroll from home.
Houses nearest the “gulch” itself experience some traffic noise, but most of the neighborhood feels leafy, quiet, and protected. The freeway also offers swift east-west access by car, and future trail expansions could further connect residents to regional bike networks.
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