Pioneer Square

The basics

Originally built in the 1980s on the site of a former parking garage, Pioneer Square is centrally located, and covers a full city block. The square is named for the nearby Pioneer Courthouse. This National Historic Landmark dates to 1875 and is Oregon's home of the US Court of Appeals.

Strolling through the square you find tiered seating and a popular coffee shop, with numerous events on offer throughout the year. You can swing by independently, or take the guesswork out of getting around with a guided tour. Many Portland sightseeing tours stop here, and even quirky options—like scavenger hunts—often take you through this central destination.

Things to know before you go

• Dine alfresco at one of the square's reasonably priced food carts.
• This is a prime people-watching destination where you can get a sense of Portland's culture; you may encounter street musicians and the occasional panhandler.
• The square has a weathervane sculpture, chess tables, and a TriMet ticket office.

How to get there

Pioneer Square is situated in Downtown Portland, and it's easy to access by public transit, on a guided tour, or with your own two feet. You can avoid the hassle of navigating with a hop-on hop-off bus tour, and if you don't mind the train, try Portland's MAX light rail service. Transit stops on the north and south sides of the square offer Red Line and Blue Line access.

When to get there

There's really no bad time to visit. It's often busiest here in the summer, when you find concerts, food festivals, and the energetic vibes Pioneer Square is known for. Over the winter months, you can enjoy the Christmas tree lighting. Even if you're not visiting for a special event, stop by anytime while exploring downtown, or if you need to catch public transit.

What to Do in Downtown Portland

Within a short walk of Pioneer Square you can find several destinations to make the most of your time downtown. Shoppers enjoy retail therapy at Nordstrom, history fans can tour the Pioneer Courthouse, and art enthusiasts should head to the Portland Art Museum. If you have a sweet tooth, don't miss the confections at Voodoo Doughnut, or pick up your next favorite paperback at Powell's City of Books.

When was Pioneer Courthouse Square built in Portland Oregon?

Pioneer Courthouse Square officially opened on April 6th, 1984, which was Portland’s 133rd birthday. It was named in honor of the adjacent historic Pioneer Courthouse, which is one of the oldest federal buildings in the Pacific Northwest. The square is nicknamed “Portland’s living room” and is a favorite local gathering space.

Who designed Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland?

The chief designer and architect of Pioneer Courthouse Square was Willard Martin. He won a national design competition in 1980 and designed the square with his interdisciplinary design team that included Lee Kelly, a sculptor; Terrence O’Donnell, a historian; Robert Reynolds, a graphic artist; Douglas Macy, a landscape architect; and Spencer Gill, a writer.

Who owns Pioneer Courthouse Square Portland?

Pioneer Courthouse Square is owned by the City of Portland and it’s one of the city’s parks. It brings people together with its cafés and restaurants and also has a jam-packed events schedule. Every year, the square hosts more than 300 events, including concerts and a Christmas market.

What part of Portland is Pioneer Courthouse Square in?

Pioneer Courthouse Square is in the center of downtown Portland at 701 SW 6th Avenue. If you’re traveling by light rail, you can get the blue or red lines to Pioneer Square North or Pioneer Square South; alternatively, the green or yellow lines go to Pioneer Courthouse/SW 6th Ave.

What is the name of the statue in Portland's Pioneer Courthouse Square?

The statue in Portland’s Pioneer Courthouse Square is called Allow Me, but most people call it by its unofficial name the Umbrella Man. This bronze statue was designed by John Seward Johnson in 1983. It fits in with Portland’s rainy reputation as the city has 44 inches of rain a year.

Is visiting Pioneer Courthouse Square worth it?

Yes, Pioneer Courthouse Square is worth a visit if you’re spending time in Portland. As well as being the setting of regular events—such as cultural festivals, outdoor movies, concerts, and markets—it’s also close to restaurants, shopping spots, and historic buildings, such as the Pioneer Courthouse.