Portland Steel Bridge
North Steel Bridge, Portland, Oregon
With more than a dozen bridges spanning the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, Portland is certainly a city of bridges. However, there’s one that stands out; Portland's Steel Bridge is the only telescoping, double-decker truss bridge ever built. You can ride the light rail across, admire its expanse on a cruise, or just stroll along the century-old landmark.
Many Portlanders cross the Steel Bridge bound for Portland's Eastbank Esplanade public park, or head west into Downtown Portland. The busy thoroughfare is crossed by more than 20,000 vehicles (and 2,000 bikes) daily.
You can cross the bridge on the blue or red MAX Light Rail trains, or stroll across after exploring the esplanade. You can also embrace this city's cycling-friendly culture and rent bikes—or join an urban bike tour—and cross the Steel Bridge on the cantilevered cycling lane. For passing views of the bridge, you can try a cruise or jet-boat tour. Most cruises pass dozens of sights along the banks of the Willamette River, including a handful of Portland's bridges—such as Hawthorne, and Marquam.
- Engineering fans should check out this bridge—built in 1912—featuring decks that rise and fall independently.
- If you're biking over the bridge or exploring on foot, you should bring a rain-proof shell; Portland is often misty and rainy.
- Save time checking out Portland with a helicopter sightseeing tour.
The Steel Bridge connects Northwest and Northeast Portland, and it's easily accessible whether you're strolling, cycling, or hopping on public transit. It's most convenient to walk from nearby Union Station—located in the Old Town Chinatown area—or stroll to the western foot of the bridge via Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
There's really no bad time to visit Portland Steel Bridge, but if you're biking or walking, plan to visit during the day to admire the waterfront views. A summer visit—in June, July, and August—offers warmer weather, and the best chance to see the city's famed roses in bloom, while an October visit may mean lower hotel prices and still-pleasant weather.
Portlanders love beer, and the hoppy brews pumping out of the city's best breweries are not to be missed. Not far from the Steel Bridge you can find several standouts—including Deschutes, Hair of the Dog, Rogue, and many, many more. Most have tasting rooms and food. You can take the guesswork out of picking where to go on a brewery bike tour. Most tours include at least a pint or two.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!