A Ride On This Tram Will Show You Portland Like Never Before

Soaring to 500 feet during the 4-minute trip, this epic tram ride gives you some of the best views of the city. The quick trip, connecting the South Waterfront and Marquam Hill, is a scenic journey that rises over residential quiet to allow amazing views of downtown, Mt. Hood, and the entire valley. If you haven't been on the tram yet, head down to the waterfront to catch a ride on this fun and inexpensive adventure.

Boarding takes place every few minutes for the tram. While it is a fun tourist destination, much of the ridership is comprised of working professionals, students and patients heading to and from the teaching hospital, Oregon Health and Sciences University, located on Marquam Hill.

Once you rise to 500 feet, the feeling can be kind of surreal as you look out over the city.

If heights are no problem for you, you can look out over the tram as you rise and have the first look at the amazing view.

Built by a team of Swiss and Los Angeles-based designers, the tram is built to withstand seismic activity and is considered very safe. Rarely, in the event of high winds or freezing ice, it closes for a period of time until conditions improve.

There are two trams that operate on a continual basis throughout the day. Named Walt and Jean, the trams are named after the first African American to graduate from OHSU and the first female to graduate in engineering from OSU, respectively.

Once you ascend to the peak, be sure to look down, as this is where the amazing views take place.

Some times you will catch a magical sunset or an amazing view of Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens. During the week, the tram operates from 5:30 am to 9:30 pm, and from 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday. It is closed on Sunday.

All tickets on the tram are roundtrip and cost $4.55, with children under 6 free. Tickets are available at automated ticket booths at the top and bottom of the tram, or if paying with cash, at Lovejoy Bakers, located on SW Moody Street across from the terminal. Trimet and Streetcar passes are also honored.

When you reach the top, take a bit to sit on the upper deck and take in the views all around you. Have a coffee at Summit Espresso and enjoy the amazing scenery before heading back down on your journey.

For more information about the Portland Aerial Tram, visit the website here.