Median Price
$525,000
Walk Score
63
Schools
B+
Where it sits
University Park is bounded by North Lombard Street to the south, North Chautauqua Boulevard to the east, North Columbia Boulevard and the Burlington Northern Railroad tracks to the north, and the Willamette River bluff to the west. Home to the University of Portland, the neighborhood’s identity centers around its collegiate vibe and abundant parks, giving it an open, community-oriented energy. University Park is a proudly residential enclave, where campus life effortlessly blends with classic North Portland living.
The Neighborhood
University Park features an inviting mix of early 20th-century craftsman bungalows, modest Cape Cods, updated ranch homes, and newer infill houses. Tree-lined streets curve through deep residential lots, and many homes enjoy views toward Forest Park or the Willamette bluff. Backyard gardens and front porches are a staple, and student rentals are common around the University of Portland.
The neighborhood’s daily rhythm revolves around campus life, local parks, and small clusters of businesses, particularly along Lombard Street. Residents often walk or bike to parks, coffee shops, and casual eateries, while larger errands usually demand a car. The blend of students, families, and longtime locals makes for a lively, down-to-earth atmosphere.
Parks, Trails & Green Space
Top 5 places to get outside
Columbia Park & Annex — A classic North Portland destination, Columbia Park features forested paths, a gorgeous canopy of mature trees, playgrounds, sports fields, and an outdoor pool (summer). The adjoining Annex adds open fields and a dog area. _Known for_: Walking paths, community events, swimming pool, picnic areas
McKenna Park — A welcoming community park featuring grassy fields, a playground, basketball courts, and a picnic area, popular with families and local sports teams. _Known for_: Playground, ball fields, informal soccer games
University of Portland Campus Green Spaces — Much of the University campus is open to the public, with well-kept lawns, shady areas, and scenic views from the Willamette bluff, especially at dusk. _Known for_: Open green spaces, views, community gatherings
Northgate Park — Located just northeast of the neighborhood, Northgate Park offers a skatepark, playground, splash pad, and wide open lawns good for group activities. _Known for_: Skatepark, water play, youth sports
Cathedral Park — Technically just outside University Park’s western boundary (in St. Johns), this iconic park beneath the St. Johns Bridge offers river views, trails, and summer music festivals, and is a favorite for local gatherings. _Known for_: St. Johns Bridge views, trails, community events
Coffee Shops
Top 5 places for a coffee
The Arbor Lodge — A cozy coffee shop serving locally roasted beans, pastries, and simple café fare. The relaxed setting is popular with neighborhood regulars and University of Portland students alike. _Known for_: Community vibe, house-made pastries, spacious tables
Perruche Coffee — A welcoming North Lombard spot with thoughtful espresso drinks, specialty teas, and fresh baked goods. Tucked into a bright storefront, Perruche is a local go-to for studying or a treat. _Known for_: Espresso drinks, friendly staff, cozy seating
Trevett-Nebeker Coffee House (on University of Portland campus) — Located at the heart of the UP campus, this student-oriented café is open to the public and offers quality Americanos, drip coffee, and snacks in an airy, academic setting. _Known for_: Study space, campus energy, open to non-students
Guilder Café — North Lombard — A warm, bookish spot on Lombard serving locally roasted Proud Mary coffees, light breakfast, and a literary-themed ambiance. _Known for_: Bookstore-café blend, unique drinks
Meadowland Coffee Bar — This inviting spot on North Chautauqua Boulevard is known for smooth espresso and a rotating selection of donuts and baked treats, perfect for a neighborhood morning. _Known for_: Donuts, espresso
Restaurants & Food Carts
Top 5 places for a bite to eat
Cha! Cha! Cha! — St. Johns — A PNW-local favorite, this casual Mexican eatery offers fresh burritos, tacos, and tamales just a few blocks northwest of University Park’s edge. _Known for_: Fresh tortillas, burritos, budget-friendly plates
The Fishwife — Longstanding family-run seafood spot offering fish and chips, chowder, and grilled seafood in a laid-back setting near the Lombard main drag. _Known for_: Fish & chips, chowder, classic seafood
King Burrito Mexican Food — A beloved modest taqueria on Lombard, known for generous portions, value, and a menu focused on burritos and tacos made to order. _Known for_: Burritos, breakfast meals, quick service
Homegrown Smoker — A unique vegan BBQ joint offering smoked plant-based comfort foods out of a casual storefront on North Lombard. _Known for_: Vegan barbecue, mac-nocheese, smoked soy curls
Twilight Room — A University Park tradition, the "T-Room" serves up classic pub fare (burgers, sandwiches, salads) alongside an all-ages side, right near the University of Portland. _Known for_: Casual eats, burgers, college crowd
Bars
Top 5 places for a drink
Twilight Room — See above. Classic neighborhood bar and grill, popular with both locals and university students for beers on tap, pool, and televised sports. _Known for_: Pub vibes, affordable drinks, college hangout
Portsmouth Public House — A relaxed local bar and restaurant serving cocktails, Pacific Northwest beers, and classic bar food in a comfortable setting just east of University Park. _Known for_: Draft beers, friendly bartenders, trivia nights
Slim's Restaurant & Lounge — A longstanding, no-frills tavern offering hearty eats and a casual, neighborly bar scene. Well-loved for its laid-back service and longevity in North Portland. _Known for_: Dive bar ambiance, burgers, neighborhood feel
Leisure Public House — Situated on North Killingsworth just southeast of University Park, this spot is known for its backyard patio, Ping-Pong tables, and playful drink specials. _Known for_: Outdoor seating, bar games, relaxed feel
The Fixin' To — A funky bar and music venue close to Cathedral Park, with a southern-inspired menu and local tap list, serving as a gathering space for music and comedy. _Known for_: Live events, cocktails, late-night eats
Things To Do
Top 5 things worth your time
University of Portland Performing & Fine Arts Events — Check the UP campus calendar for music, theater, and lecture events open to the entire neighborhood throughout the school year. _Known for_: Student theater, music recitals, dance, lectures
Columbia Pool (seasonal) — A beloved outdoor pool, usually open mid-June through August, offers swim classes, lap swimming, and family swim times within Columbia Park. _Known for_: Outdoor swimming, community gathering spot
St. Johns Farmers Market — Held weekly on Saturdays from late spring into fall, this open-air market offers local produce, baked goods, and food carts just northwest of University Park. _Known for_: Fresh finds, live music, community events
North Portland Tool Library — A community resource offering free tool rentals and maintenance classes, empowering residents to tackle home and garden projects easily. _Known for_: Tool lending, DIY workshops
Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area — This vast wildlife refuge is just north of University Park, offering flat walking trails, birdwatching, and glimpses of turtles, herons, and wetlands flora. _Known for_: Urban wildlife, accessible trails
Community Resources
Local services & organizations
University Park Neighborhood Association — Represents resident interests, organizes events, and connects neighbors through regular meetings and park cleanups.
North Portland Library — An anchor resource providing free books, computer access, classes, and community gathering space just a short drive or bus ride from University Park.
Portland Parks & Recreation, University Park Community Center — Located centrally, this center offers youth programs, fitness classes, and community events.
St. Johns Post Office — Serving University Park and adjacent neighborhoods with full-service postal operations.
North Portland Tool Library — See above; free tool loans for neighborhood residents.
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Is It Right For You?
How University Park 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…
- People seeking a walkable, park-centric setting near a university
- Families who value both neighborhood calm and active green spaces
- Renters and buyers seeking classic Portland homes with room to grow
It might not fit if…
- Limited major grocery and shopping options within walking distance
- Parking can be tight near campus and during major events
- Some areas experience student housing turnover and associated noise
University Park FAQ
The questions we hear most about University Park — and honest answers from people who know it.
Ask us anything →University Park features a mix of early 1900s Craftsman bungalows, classic Cape Cods, midcentury ranches, and newer infill homes, often set on roomy lots and shaded by mature trees.
With a Walk Score of 63, University Park is classified as "somewhat walkable." Many essentials like coffee, dining, and parks are nearby, but larger errands or specialty shopping typically require a car or bike.
The University of Portland brings a college town feel to the area, with events, amenities, and a youthful energy—especially during the academic year. Campus performances, sporting events, and green spaces are open to residents, making it easy for neighbors to participate in university life.
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