Pittock Mansion
A wonderfully preserved example of life in a bygone era and spectacular views await at one of America’s finest stately homes.
Experience opulence once enjoyed by one of Portland’s most important families at this important cultural attraction. It sits on 46 acres (19 hectares) in the city’s West Hills.
Take the time to read about Henry and Georgiana Pittock, Portland pioneers who built the mansion, completed in 1914; their story is a classic rags-to-riches tale.
History enthusiasts will be in their element. The house is filled with antiques and artwork of the time, many of which belonged to the Pittock family. These include an 1887 Steinway grand piano and Henry Pittock’s ceremonial sword. A silver and glass collection includes many fine Tiffany pieces.
The architecture of the house is just as impressive as the ornaments it contains. Features include circular rooms, ornate plaster and marble work, and decorative hardwood furnishings. Modern in its day, the forward-thinking design of this home included a central vacuum system and an intercom.
Regular and informative tours of the house are available at an extra cost, though this is well worth it if you’re keen on finding out more about the house and its history.
The house is almost 1,000 feet (304 meters) above sea level and has what is often described as Portland’s best view. It looks back over the town towards Mount Hood and the Cascade mountains. Don’t overlook the gardens as Georgiana Pittock was a gardening enthusiast noted for starting Portland’s Rose Festival.
If you have the energy, take the popular hiking trail to the mansion, which begins at Lower Macleay Park and winds along the Wildwood Trail, a two-and-a-half-mile (four kilometer) walk to the top.