About the Area
Portland's South Waterfront
Portland's South Waterfront Neighborhood
The John Ross sits in the heart of the South Waterfront, Portland's newest high-rise neighborhood. Built on former industrial land along the Willamette River, the district has grown into a cluster of modern glass towers, riverfront parks and street-level shops — all within a few walkable blocks.
It is a neighborhood defined by the river on one side and the wooded hills of Marquam on the other. Residents step out to the Willamette Greenway Trail for a morning run, ride the Aerial Tram up to OHSU, and catch the Portland Streetcar into Downtown or the Pearl District without ever getting into a car.
Compared to Portland's older urban neighborhoods, the South Waterfront feels open and bright, with wide sidewalks, generous green space and unobstructed views of the river, Mt. Hood and the city skyline. For condo buyers it offers newer construction, secure parking and a genuinely quiet setting just minutes from the center of the city.
Neighborhood Highlights
Portland Aerial Tram
One of only a handful of commuter aerial trams in the country, carrying riders from the South Waterfront up to OHSU's Marquam Hill campus with sweeping views of the river, the city and Mt. Hood.
Willamette Greenway Trail
A paved riverfront path running the length of the neighborhood, connecting to Willamette Park to the south and the Tilikum Crossing bridge to the north.
OHSU Schnitzer Campus
Oregon Health & Science University's expanding waterfront campus brings research buildings, classrooms and a steady stream of neighborhood energy.
Elizabeth Caruthers Park
The neighborhood's central green, with open lawn, water features and seasonal community events just a short walk from The John Ross.
Cottonwood Bay & Dog Park
A natural riverbank area and a popular off-leash dog park make the South Waterfront one of Portland's easiest high-rise neighborhoods for pet owners.
Tilikum Crossing
Portland's car-free bridge for transit, cyclists and pedestrians links the South Waterfront directly to the eastside in minutes.
Dining & Gathering
- • Bamboo Sushi — sustainable sushi on SW Bond
- • Sushi Ichiban / neighborhood cafés along River Parkway
- • Coffee shops and bakeries at street level throughout the district
- • Rotating food carts and the seasonal South Waterfront Farmers Market
Everyday Convenience
- • Grocery and pharmacy within walking distance
- • Fitness studios, salons and medical offices at street level
- • Streetcar to Downtown, PSU and the Pearl District
- • Quick I-5 and US-26 access for trips out of town