Portland Saturday Market

One of the highlights of any shopping tour of Portland is the Portland Saturday Market in Old Town. It’s been running since 1974, connecting artists and artisans directly with the people who buy their products. The market is also a great place to get a quick bite to eat in the international food court. And though it doesn’t run year-round, it’s only during a few months of the year that you won’t find it open and bustling on weekends – rain or shine!

The market sits under the western end of the Burnside Bridge, between SW Naito Parkway and SW 1st Avenue. So although it’s outdoors, much of it is under the cover of the bridge so you’ll be able to do most of your shopping in a rain-free environment (even in the winter). Some of the market booths aren’t covered by the bridge, however, and the food court is entirely exposed, so dress appropriately and bring an umbrella just in case!

In addition to the Portland Saturday Market being open every weekend from March until Christmas Eve, the entire week prior to Christmas the market is traditionally open every day for those last minute Christmas shopping needs.

Please note that there is an entire industry which has sprung up around the official Portland Saturday Market, but which is not technically affiliated with the market. It sounds cliche, but as soon as you “cross the tracks” from the main market area you’re in the unofficial market area and none of the market’s customer service (or parking validation, for that matter) applies. There’s nothing wrong with the vendors in the unofficial market, just so long as you know.

You’ll find a listing of the market artisans here, and information about what’s on offer at the food court here. To read about the history of the market, see this page.

Hours: March 1 through December 24, Saturdays 10:00-17:00; Sundays 11:00-16:30

Admission: Free to walk through the market, the goods and foods all cost something

Website: https://www.portlandsaturdaymarket.com/

How to Find the Market: For a map and directions on public transit or driving, see this page

Tips: If you drive downtown and park in one of the SmartPark lots, bring your parking ticket with you to the market and ask the market artists you purchase goods from to stamp your ticket. When you buy at least $25 worth of stuff from any market artisan, you’ll get two free hours of parking at any Smart Park lot. If you’re taking public transit, your $25 purchase will get you a free TriMet ticket.

Photo by: eyeliam