Vacation Rentals in Hawthorne & Belmont, Portland

Stretching along SE Hawthorne Boulevard from 30th to 50th Avenue and SE Belmont from 20th to 47th, these parallel streets form the beating heart of Portland's independent culture. This is where you'll find Powell's Books on Hawthorne, vintage clothing stores like House of Vintage and Red Light Clothing Exchange, and some of the city's most beloved restaurants packed into converted bungalows.

Our 40 vacation rentals in Hawthorne & Belmont put you within walking distance of everything that makes Portland weird in the best way. Stay in a restored Craftsman just blocks from Apizza Scholls, or choose a modern apartment above the thrift shops on Belmont. Unlike generic downtown hotels or vacation rentals in the Pearl District, here you're living like a local — grabbing morning coffee at Coava, browsing vinyl at Music Millennium, and ending your day with a pint at Horse Brass Pub.

What to Do in Hawthorne & Belmont

Start your exploration at the Bagdad Theater, a 1927 movie palace turned McMenamins brewpub where you can watch first-run films while sipping Ruby Ale. The stretch between 34th and 39th on Hawthorne holds the neighborhood's cultural core — Powell's Books for hours of browsing, Crossroads Music for vinyl hunting, and Pastaworks for picnic supplies to take up to Mt. Tabor.

Belmont runs quieter but equally rich in discoveries. The Avalon Theatre shows arthouse films, while shops like Artifact Creative Recycle turn trash into artistic treasure. Don't miss the Belmont Goats — a herd of urban goats that graze empty lots between 70th and 82nd, delighting kids and clearing blackberry brambles.

For a classic Portland afternoon, rent bikes from Clever Cycles and ride the neighborhood greenways to Ladd's Addition, where four diamond-shaped rose gardens bloom from April through October. The historic district's diagonal streets and central traffic circle make it feel like a secret European quarter tucked into Southeast Portland.

Getting Around Hawthorne & Belmont

These parallel streets run exactly one mile apart, making navigation simple. The 14-Hawthorne bus runs every 12-15 minutes from downtown to 82nd Avenue, while the 15-Belmont provides similar service. Both lines connect to MAX Blue Line at SE 7th Avenue for airport trips (45 minutes total).

Parking is generally easier here than in NW Portland vacation rentals areas, with most side streets offering free spots. Just check for permit zones between 30th and 39th on Hawthorne. Many of our rentals include off-street parking — a real bonus during peak dining hours.

Biking is ideal here thanks to the Hawthorne and Lincoln-Harrison neighborhood greenways. These low-traffic routes have speed bumps and traffic circles that prioritize bikes. You can pedal safely to Division's restaurant row or connect to the Springwater Corridor for longer rides.

Where to Eat & Drink

Hawthorne's dining scene skews eclectic and affordable. Apizza Scholls (SE 26th & Powell) regularly tops national pizza rankings — expect hour-long waits on weekends. For breakfast, Cup & Saucer Cafe serves massive portions in multiple locations, while Bread & Ink Cafe has been plating perfect eggs Benedict since 1983.

Belmont's food tends more upscale. Bamboo Sushi pioneered sustainable seafood in Portland, while Cheese Bar pairs artisan fromage with craft cocktails. Don't miss Pine State Biscuits for hangover-curing fried chicken and gravy mountains, or Dick's Kitchen for burgers made with grass-fed beef.

The beer scene here helped define Portland. Horse Brass Pub (SE 45th & Belmont) has poured imports since 1976, while newer spots like Belmont Station offer 1,200+ bottles to go. For cocktails, hit Sapphire Hotel's moody back bar or Triple Nickel's house-infused spirits.

Local Events & Festivals

Hawthorne Street Fair (August) transforms 20 blocks into an outdoor party with local bands, food carts, and sidewalk sales. The Belmont Street Fair follows in September with a similar vibe. During Portland Rose Festival season, both neighborhoods host unofficial porch parties and yard sales.

First Friday art walks happen monthly along both streets, with galleries and shops staying open late. The Bagdad Theater hosts special screenings during the Portland International Film Festival, while smaller venues like the Hawthorne Theater book touring indie bands year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Hawthorne & Belmont from Portland Airport?

It's 11 miles from PDX, about 25-30 minutes by car or 45 minutes via MAX Blue Line plus bus. Take MAX to SE 7th Avenue, then catch the 14 or 15 bus east. Uber/Lyft typically costs $35-45.

Is parking free in Hawthorne & Belmont?

Most residential streets offer free parking, but check signs carefully. The busiest blocks (30th-39th on Hawthorne) have 2-hour limits until 6pm. Our rentals often include off-street parking — we'll note this in each listing.

What's the difference between staying on Hawthorne vs Belmont?

Hawthorne buzzes with more foot traffic, shops, and restaurants — great if you want action outside your door. Belmont runs quieter but still walkable to everything. Both offer easy access to Mt. Tabor and downtown.

Can I walk to Division Street restaurants from Hawthorne?

Absolutely — Division runs parallel between Hawthorne and Belmont. From our Hawthorne rentals, it's a 10-minute walk to Pok Pok, Salt & Straw, and other Division hot spots. From Belmont properties, even closer.

Are Hawthorne & Belmont good for families?

Very family-friendly. Colonel Summers Park has playgrounds and a splash pad. Powell's Kids section is legendary. Many restaurants welcome children, and the residential side streets feel safe for evening strolls. Check our family vacation rentals for homes with yards and multiple bedrooms.