Johns Landing Neighborhood Guide
Riverfront Condos, Bungalows, and the Willamette Greenway Trail in South Portland
Johns Landing Sits Along the Willamette With a Trail, a Park, and Zupan's Within Walking Distance
Johns Landing runs along the Willamette River in South Portland, and the water shapes how the neighborhood feels and functions. The Willamette Greenway Trail winds through the area, connecting walkers, runners, and cyclists along the riverfront and linking north toward downtown Portland and south toward Sellwood. Willamette Park sits within the neighborhood with open green space, kayak access, and off-leash dog areas that draw residents from surrounding blocks on a daily basis.
The housing stock covers more range than most South Portland neighborhoods. Early 20th-century bungalows, Mid-Century ranches, riverfront condos, and contemporary townhomes sit within a few blocks of each other, which gives buyers at different price points and life stages a reason to look here. Zupan's Market anchors the neighborhood's commercial center with gourmet groceries, and local cafes, bakeries, and restaurants fill in around it.
South Waterfront is just north, and downtown Portland is minutes away by car or bike. For buyers who want river proximity, trail access, and a neighborhood that functions well day to day without requiring a drive for most errands, Johns Landing is worth a close look.
Johns Landing homes for sale attract a mix of professionals, families, and buyers looking to downsize into something with strong walkability and direct access to the water.
Johns Landing Homes for Sale
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Your Search, Your Way
Fun Facts
Named After a Pioneer Business
The neighborhood gets its name from the B.P. John Furniture Company, which operated here in the 20th century.
Willamette Park Hub
This park offers sports fields, picnic areas, and a boat ramp for river access.
Portland’s First Suburban Development
Johns Landing was one of Portland’s earliest suburbs, established in the late 1800s.
Parks
Johns Landing offers a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, with several parks providing scenic retreats along the Willamette River. Willamette Park is a local favorite, featuring picnic areas, sports courts, and a boat launch, making it a great spot for weekend outings. Butterfly Park, a hidden gem along SW Macadam Ave, is a unique natural area designed to support butterfly habitats. Visitors can walk along unpaved trails, spot native wildflowers, and catch glimpses of cedar waxwings and chickadees while enjoying a peaceful escape. The Willamette Greenway Trail runs through the neighborhood, connecting these parks and offering a picturesque walking and biking path with waterfront views. Whether you're looking for a quiet nature walk or a place to launch your kayak, Johns Landing has plenty of green spaces to enjoy.
Points of Interest
Beyond its lush parks, Johns Landing boasts a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests. The neighborhood is home to L’Etoile French Immersion School, offering bilingual education for young learners and adding to the area's cultural charm. For daily indulgences, residents frequent local favorites like St. Honoré Bakery for fresh pastries and coffee, Jola Café for cozy brunches, and Elephant’s Delicatessen for gourmet takeout and specialty goods. The proximity to the river means water enthusiasts can easily access boating and kayaking opportunities, while the array of boutique shops and eateries ensures there's always something new to explore.
Getting Around
With a Walk Score of 82, Johns Landing is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood where daily errands and leisure activities can often be accomplished on foot. Downtown Portland is just an 8-minute drive away, making for a swift commute. Public transportation is readily accessible, with several bus lines servicing the area and connecting residents to broader Portland. Cyclists will appreciate the neighborhood's bike-friendly infrastructure, including dedicated lanes and the scenic Willamette Greenway Trail, making it easy to navigate the city on two wheels.
Schools*
Elementary: Capitol Hill Elementary School / Rieke Elementary School
Middle: Robert Gray Middle School
High: Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School
Private (Nearby): The International School / Oregon Episcopal School / St. Mary’s Academy / L’Etoile French Immersion School
*School boundaries can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to verify school assignments for any home you’re considering.
Check out Portland Public Schools’ general school map here or use their school finder tool here to get specific information for a property address.
All information provided is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Readers are encouraged to independently verify details to ensure accuracy.
Your Guide to Portland’s Distinctive Districts & Metro Area
Johns Landing sits along the Willamette River in South Portland with a character that is equal parts historic and convenient.
The neighborhood runs along Macadam Avenue with restaurants, shops, and the river close at hand, and the housing mix ranges from converted warehouse condos to bungalows that predate most of the surrounding development. OHSU is nearby, downtown is a short drive or bike ride, and the Willamette Greenway trail connects the neighborhood to the broader river path system. We work across South Portland and are happy to talk through what the Johns Landing market looks like right now. Call or text us at 503-951-8547.
Johns Landing is one of 4 distinct neighborhoods that make up South Portland. If you're still figuring out where you might fit, our South Portland neighborhood guide covers the full picture.
Kim Campbell & Francisco Salgado