Eastbank Esplanade050

A perfect counterpart to the westside's Waterfront Park, this little boardwalk runs along the east side of the Willamette River. Walking or biking here offers a one-of-a-kind view of downtown and the river. At the north end, cross the Steel Bridge and get a dizzying view of the Willamette, or have a seat and watch the trains do the crossing. At the south end look for the Hawthorne Bridge - another likely crossing - although if you continue south on the path, you'll end up at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. In between you'll find a floating walkway, sculptures, and plenty of Portland culture. Decorative street lamps display tales of the city, old photographs, and area maps, so you can really sink your teeth into history. A Farmers' Market sets up camp at Eastbank, between Hawthorne and Belmont, on Thursdays, from 3:30pm-7:30pm.