Attractions and Places To See around Cedar Hills - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Cedar Hills, Oregon, offer a blend of urban landmarks and natural spaces. Located near Portland, the area provides access to significant city attractions and extensive trail networks. Visitors can explore diverse sites ranging from innovative bridges to science museums and riverside parks. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Willamette River and its connection to a broader metropolitan area.
Best attractions and places to see around Cedar Hills
- The most popular attractions…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Lower Macleay Trailhead
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Pioneer Courthouse Square
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OMSI — Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
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Tilikum Crossing
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Waterfront Park
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Tilikum Crossing, Bridge of the People, is a cable-stayed bridge designed by TriMet for MAX Orange Line trains, buses, streetcars, cyclists, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles. Opened on September 12, 2015, it prohibits private cars and trucks, making it the first major U.S. bridge built for transit and non-motorized traffic only. Named after the Chinook word for "people," it was the first new bridge over the Willamette River in Portland since the Fremont Bridge in 1973. Construction began in 2011.
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Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park, or just Waterfront Park, is a 36.59-acre park in downtown Portland, Oregon. This lovely park stretches along the Willamette River and features a paved multi-use pathway that attracts joggers, bikers, and walkers. The path offers scenic views of the river and the city skyline, making it a popular spot for recreational activities and commuting. The pathway also connects to other city parks and is part of the larger riverfront greenway. Waterfront Park hosts major events, including the Waterfront Blues Festival and Rose Festival, is a popular U.S. presidential campaign stop, and features attractions like the Salmon Street Springs fountain, and various art instillations, plazas, memorials.
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The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI, /ˈɒmziː/ OM-zee) is a science and technology museum in Portland. It contains three auditoriums, including a large-screen theater, a planetarium, and exhibition halls with a variety of hands-on permanent exhibitions focusing on science, industry, and technology. Temporary exhibits encompass a broader range of disciplines.
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Since 1984, Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland's cherished “Living Room,” has drawn ten million annual visitors. It hosts 300 events, a symbol of civic unity. Roots trace back to the 1856 Central School and 1890 Portland Hotel, embodying history. Its visionary design, honored by Progressive Architecture magazine in 1981, reflects Portland's enduring civic spirit. “Friends of Pioneer Square” left their legacy through inscribed bricks, a lasting emblem of community unity.
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The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, or OMSI, shines as a beacon of science and technology in Portland. Its interactive exhibitions grace five halls and five labs, where visitors delve into the wonders of physics, chemistry, paleontology, and more. Beyond its walls, OMSI leads the nation with the largest science museum outreach program, fostering curiosity and knowledge.
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This parking lot fills up on weekends as there are only eight spaces in the lot. Additional parking is available on the streets surrounding the park and on Thurman Street near the bridge. At the east end of the bridge, there is a set of stairs that lead down to the park. Lower Macleay Trail connects to the over 30-mile-long Wildwood Trail, which provides access to Pittock Mansion to the south for fantastic views of the city. To the north, Wildwood Trail connects to various trails throughout the length of Forest Park.
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Park here and discover the beauty of Forest Park on your bike. The following forest roads, fire lanes and trails are open to cyclists: Leif Erikson Drive, Saltzman Road, Springville Road, BPA Road, Newton Road, Holman Lane (uphill only) and Fire Lanes 1, 3, 5, 10, 12, & 15.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular outdoor activities around Cedar Hills, Oregon?
The area around Cedar Hills, Oregon, offers a variety of outdoor activities, particularly hiking and mountain biking. You can explore trails like the Johnson Creek Trail and Cedar Mill Creek Greenway, or the Fanno Creek Trail for easy hikes. For mountain biking, options include the challenging Forest Park: Leif Erikson and Saltzman Loop. Find more details on nearby routes in our guides for hiking around Cedar Hills and MTB trails around Cedar Hills.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities near Cedar Hills?
Yes, Cedar Hills and the surrounding Portland area offer several family-friendly attractions. The OMSI — Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a great choice with interactive exhibitions across five halls and labs, covering physics, chemistry, and paleontology. Additionally, Waterfront Park provides a paved multi-use pathway perfect for family walks, jogging, or biking along the Willamette River.
Where can I find easy hiking trails around Cedar Hills?
For easy hiking trails, consider options like the Commonwealth Lake Park Loop, which is a short and accessible path. The Johnson Creek Trail and Cedar Mill Creek Greenway also offer an easy experience. You can find more easy routes in our dedicated guide to easy hikes around Cedar Hills.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints in the area?
A significant landmark is Tilikum Crossing, notable as the largest car-free bridge in the US, offering great views of downtown Portland. Pioneer Courthouse Square, known as Portland's 'Living Room,' is another prominent landmark hosting numerous events. For natural views, Waterfront Park provides scenic views of the Willamette River and the city skyline.
Are there any dog-friendly trails or parks near Cedar Hills?
Yes, many outdoor areas around Cedar Hills are dog-friendly. Lower Macleay Trailhead is a gateway to Forest Park, which generally welcomes dogs on leash. Waterfront Park also offers paved pathways suitable for walks with your dog, enjoying the river views.
What are the parking options for attractions around Cedar Hills?
Parking availability varies by attraction. For instance, Lower Macleay Trailhead has a small parking lot that fills up quickly on weekends, with additional street parking nearby. For urban attractions like OMSI or Waterfront Park, public parking garages or street parking in downtown Portland would be the primary options.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths or attractions?
Yes, several attractions offer wheelchair accessibility. Tilikum Crossing is a car-free bridge designed for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit, making it wheelchair-friendly. Pioneer Courthouse Square is also noted as wheelchair accessible, providing a central urban space for everyone to enjoy.
What kind of historical or cultural sites can I visit?
While the immediate Cedar Hills area is more focused on natural and recreational spaces, nearby Portland offers cultural and historical sites. Pioneer Courthouse Square, with its roots tracing back to 1856, serves as a historical and civic hub. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), while science-focused, also represents a significant cultural institution in the region.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Cedar Hills?
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of urban exploration and natural beauty. The car-free design of Tilikum Crossing is appreciated for its unique views of downtown Portland. The interactive exhibits at OMSI are a hit for their engaging approach to science. Many also value the multi-use pathways and scenic river views offered by Waterfront Park for recreation and relaxation.
Are there any trails suitable for mountain biking near Cedar Hills?
Yes, there are several mountain biking trails available. Forest Park offers routes like the Forest Park: Leif Erikson and Saltzman Loop, which is a moderate ride, and the more difficult Firelane 5 and Leif Erikson Loop. You can find more detailed information and other routes in our guide to MTB Trails around Cedar Hills.
What is the best time to visit the outdoor attractions around Cedar Hills?
The best time to visit outdoor attractions around Cedar Hills, Oregon, largely depends on the activity. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking, with fall providing beautiful foliage. Summer is ideal for enjoying parks and riverfront activities. Winter can be suitable for some trails, but be prepared for cooler, wetter conditions.
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