Oregon City, OR

One of the Oregon communities we know and serve.

About Oregon City, OR

Oregon City is the first permanent Euro-American settlement in the Willamette Valley and the first incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains. It was established in 1829 and incorporated in 1844, first becoming home to fur traders and missionaries.

As "the end of the Oregon Trail," Oregon City became the final destination for many early emigrants. Abernethy Green, where many emigrants camped their first winter, was designated the official end of the Oregon Trail by the U.S. Congress in 1978.

When the Oregon Territory was created in 1848, Oregon City was named its first capital, a role it held until the capital moved to Salem in 1852. The first paper mill in Oregon opened here in 1866.

The city is built on three basalt terraces rising above the Willamette River just below Willamette Falls. To connect the riverside downtown with homes on the bluff, the city opened its Municipal Elevator in 1915; the current elevator was dedicated in 1955.

Why Live in Oregon City, OR?

The Oregon City Municipal Elevator is one of only four municipal elevators in the world, and "Elevator Street" remains the only vertical street in North America.
From the top of the elevator, the McLoughlin Promenade follows the bluff with views of the Willamette River and Willamette Falls.
Clackamette Park sits at the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas rivers, with beach access, a skate park, walking paths, an RV park and reservable picnic shelters.
The historic downtown preserves the city's past through several museums and tours, including the Oregon City Historic Trolleys that link historic sites with downtown.

The Oregon City, OR Market

Every neighborhood moves at its own pace. Reach out to Shannon Mesritz | Realtor in OR & WA for a current, no-pressure look at what's happening in Oregon City, OR right now.

Schools in Oregon City, OR

Oregon City is served by the Oregon City School District 62, formed November 13, 1874, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2024. Oregon City High School offers Advanced College Credit classes through an agreement with Clackamas Community College. Confirm school assignment for a specific address with the district.

Local Favorites

Oregon City Municipal Elevator (Landmark): 6 Railroad Ave, Oregon City, OR — A free public elevator rising 130 feet from downtown to the bluff, with an observation deck showing views of the city and the Willamette River.
McLoughlin Promenade (Park): A fenced bluff-top path along Singer Hill with views of the Willamette River and Willamette Falls.
End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center (Museum): 1726 Washington St, Oregon City, OR — Exhibits on the Oregon Trail and Oregon City, with grounds and gardens that include the designated end of the Oregon Trail marked by two monuments.
Clackamette Park (Park): A 25-acre park at the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas rivers with beach access, a skate park, walking paths and an RV park.
Oregon City Carnegie Library (Library): 606 John Adams St, Oregon City, OR — A historic Carnegie library a couple of blocks from the McLoughlin Promenade.
Oregon City Brewing (Brewery): 1401 Washington St, Oregon City, OR — A local brewery pouring fresh pints on tap.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon City, OR

Why is Oregon City called the End of the Oregon Trail?

Oregon City was the final destination for many Oregon Trail emigrants, and Abernethy Green was designated the official end of the trail by the U.S. Congress in 1978.

When was Oregon City incorporated?

The Oregon Provisional Legislature incorporated Oregon City on December 24, 1844, making it the first incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains.

Was Oregon City ever the capital of Oregon?

Yes. Oregon City was the first capital of the Oregon Territory, from 1848 until the capital moved to Salem in 1852.

Is the Oregon City Municipal Elevator free to ride?

Yes. The elevator is free and connects downtown with the bluff and the McLoughlin Promenade.

What school district serves Oregon City?

Oregon City School District 62 serves the city.