Tourists Should Keep Safe Exploring Portland's Vibrant Riverfront Neighborhood At Night

Portland, Oregon, may be the "quietest city in America" and the perfect destination out West for an unusually tranquil urban vacation, but in the Pearl District, that's hardly the case. Home to a variety of shops, galleries, boutiques, and breweries, it's one of the most popular destinations for first-time visitors. There's plenty to see and do during the day, and by night, the riverfront neighborhood transforms into a buzzy area of packed bars, clubs, and dine-in restaurants.

While the Pearl District was once among the safest neighborhoods to live in Portland, an uptick in crime has put residents on alert. Currently, the neighborhood has an F grade in terms of safety, which indicates just how high crime rates are compared to the national average. With a 2% safety rank, 98% of the country is considered safer. In terms of violent acts, assault is the number one crime happening in the Pearl District currently, and it's about seven times more common than robbery.

In recent months, per the time of publication, assaults have really picked up, and residents are looking for alternative ways to stay safe. One woman was assaulted in broad daylight while walking near Fields Bar and Grill, while another was assaulted at a bookstore in town. The events have created a lot of distress and worry among the local Pearl District community, with many residents feeling unprotected and taking alternative measures to stay safe. 

Police reports indicate that crimes committed in Portland's Pearl District have been on a steady increase since 2007, with no sign of slowing down. While there's no "one" reason why crime is on the rise, a few factors are likely at play. Population density is a potential contributor, as is the presence of shelters in the area. In fact, many residents have voiced serious concern about the newly opened shelter on NW Northrup Street. On one hand, the shelter is effective in getting members of the homeless community off the streets at night; on the other hand, it may also contribute to increased assault and drug use during the day.

Despite these concerns, there are ongoing efforts being made to better protect residents. The Pearl District Neighborhood Association's Livability and Safety Committee works to keep the neighborhood's streets clean and safe through graffiti removal and noise control. As a traveler, it's not worth scrapping your Portland trip altogether, but it does help to stay aware of the current crime in the area. If you're going with the whole family, consider reviewing a few key safety tips to keep the kids safe on vacation and give yourself peace of mind.

As a traveler to Portland, you'll definitely want to take some extra safety precautions when exploring the city's iconic Pearl District. Nightlife is a main draw, and there's something to be said for safety in numbers, so try to explore with a friend whenever possible. Stick to well-lit streets like NW Broadway and NW 10th Avenue and avoid dark alleyways or empty parking lots.

If you're heading back to your hotel late at night, opt for ride shares or taxis rather than walking long distances alone. While it's tempting to whip out your smartphone to scroll or look up directions, try to do so before leaving the bar rather than when you're walking on the street. Limiting distractions helps you stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Even with these safety measures in mind, the Pearl District is still worth visiting. Consider exploring the neighborhood during the daylight hours or early evening when many of the shops and cafes are open. After all, the coffee capital of America isn't in Seattle but right here in Portland. Get your caffeine fix at Sister's Coffee Company, and when you're ready for a beer, head over to Deschutes Brewery, where you can choose from classic and seasonal beers, plus plenty of food options. As for shops, Powell's Books on W. Burnside Street is the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world, and a must-see.