Your Guide to
Kenton

A North Portland Neighborhood
Filled with Music, History, and Creativity

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Where Community Spirit and Local Culture Thrive

With its deep-rooted history and strong sense of community, Kenton is a North Portland neighborhood that has evolved while holding onto its character. Originally developed as a company town for the Swift Meat Packing Company, it has grown into a lively district known for its charming streets, historic architecture, and welcoming local businesses. Many of its well-preserved buildings can be found along North Denver Avenue, the neighborhood’s main corridor, which has been the heartbeat of Kenton since the early 1900s. The area’s commercial core is even listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing Kenton’s long-standing architectural heritage.

A place where music, art, and small businesses thrive, Kenton offers something for everyone. Each August, the neighborhood hosts a street fair featuring local vendors, live performances, and family-friendly activities, bringing the community together in celebration. Music lovers flock to Speck’s Records & Tapes, a go-to spot for vinyl collectors, and Mock Crest Tavern, a historic watering hole that has been offering live music since the 1940s. Local shopping is equally vibrant and for those in search of the perfect coffee and pastry, Posies Bakery & Café delivers with its warm, welcoming atmosphere and house-baked treats.

Kenton strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and a close-knit feel. With a Walk Score of 73, many of the neighborhood’s shops, cafes, and parks are just a short stroll away. Commuters love the quick 14-minute drive to downtown Portland, while cyclists can take advantage of 15.7 miles of bike routes that make getting around on two wheels easy. The MAX Yellow Line connects Kenton to the city’s core, while Interstate 5 and the Interstate Bridge provide easy access to Vancouver, Washington. Whether you’re drawn to its historic charm, thriving local scene, or unbeatable accessibility, Kenton is a neighborhood that truly offers the best of both past and present.

Homes for Sale in the Kenton Neighborhood

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Your Search, Your Way

Fun Facts

Paul Bunyan's Towering Presence
Kenton is home to a 31-foot-tall statue of the mythical logger Paul Bunyan, erected in 1959 to commemorate Oregon's centennial. This iconic landmark stands proudly at the intersection of North Interstate and North Denver Avenues.

Historic District Recognition: The Kenton Commercial Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001 for its role in the city's development.

From Company Town to Community
Established in 1911, Kenton began as a company town for the Swift Meat Packing Company, shaping its early development and community structure.

Parks

With 19% of Kenton dedicated to green space, there’s no shortage of outdoor areas to enjoy. Kenton Park, the neighborhood’s largest green space, is a hub for community gatherings, sports, and leisure. A 2018 renovation brought new accessible play structures, an adaptive swing, a splash pad, and sensory play elements, making it a favorite for families. The park also offers basketball courts, sports fields, and shaded picnic areas, making it a great spot for everything from casual strolls to weekend pick-up games. For those who love to get their hands in the dirt, Kenton Community Garden provides a space for urban gardening, fostering sustainability and community connection.

Points of Interest

Kenton is packed with character, blending history, creativity, and local charm. The Paul Bunyan Statue, standing at 31 feet tall, has been a defining landmark since 1959, celebrating Oregon’s logging heritage and giving the neighborhood its unique identity. North Denver Avenue serves as the heart of the district, lined with historic buildings, independent boutiques, and restaurants that make the area a lively destination. The Kenton Commercial Historic District showcases early 20th-century architecture, reflecting the neighborhood’s evolution from a company town to a thriving community. Art lovers will appreciate the Oregon Contemporary Art Center, a space dedicated to experimental and contemporary works from regional and national artists. The Victorian Belle Mansion, a stunning Queen Anne-style estate built in 1885, now serves as a sought-after venue for weddings and special events, bringing historic elegance to the community. Comic Cave, a family-owned comic shop established in 2015, is a haven for collectors and comic book enthusiasts, offering a carefully curated selection of comics and related merchandise. Vintage lovers flock to Kenton Antiques, a treasure trove of unique finds, from classic furniture and clothing to vinyl records that bring a touch of nostalgia to the shopping experience.

Getting Around

With a Walk Score of 73, Kenton offers a balance between walkability and easy transportation options. Downtown Portland is just 14 minutes away by car, and cyclists can take advantage of 15.7 miles of bike routes, making it easy to get around on two wheels. Public transit is well-integrated, with the TriMet MAX Light Rail Yellow Line running through the neighborhood, offering convenient access to downtown and the Expo Center. Kenton is also ideally positioned for commuters, with quick access to Interstate 5 and the Interstate Bridge, making trips to Vancouver, Washington, seamless. Whether traveling by bike, transit, or car, Kenton’s connectivity makes it one of the most accessible neighborhoods in North Portland.

Schools*

Elementary: Rosa Parks Elementary School
Middle: George Middle School
High School: Roosevelt High 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

At Campbell Salgado Real Estate Group, we love introducing people to the unique charm and character of Portland’s Kenton neighborhood.

With its charming early 20th-century architecture, thriving small businesses, and local landmarks like the iconic Paul Bunyan Statue, Kenton blends character, history, and modern convenience. Whether you’re drawn to its walkable streets, vibrant shopping and dining along North Denver Avenue, or easy access to Interstate 5 and the MAX Yellow Line, this neighborhood offers a unique mix of urban accessibility and small-town charm. If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Kenton, let’s connect. Call or text us at 503-951-8547.

Kim Campbell & Francisco Salgado