How to Visit Portlandia Statue Portland

The Portlandia statue, an iconic 25-foot-tall copper sculpture of a woman with arms raised in triumph, stands as one of Portland, Oregon’s most recognizable landmarks. Installed in 2012 on the roof of the Fred Meyer store in the Northwest district, this statue was inspired by the popular IFC comedy series *Portlandia*, created by Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein. While the show humorously satirized the city’s quirky, eco-conscious, and artisanal culture, the statue itself has become a genuine symbol of Portland’s identity — blending art, pop culture, and civic pride. For visitors, locals, and culture enthusiasts alike, visiting the Portlandia statue is more than a photo op; it’s an immersive experience into the soul of the city. Understanding how to visit Portlandia Statue Portland requires more than just knowing its location. It demands awareness of access restrictions, optimal viewing times, nearby attractions, and respectful engagement with public art. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your visit is seamless, meaningful, and memorable.

Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting the Portlandia statue is not as straightforward as walking up to a typical monument. Due to its elevated placement and private ownership, access is limited — but not impossible. Follow these detailed steps to plan and execute a successful visit.

Step 1: Confirm the Exact Location

The Portlandia statue is mounted on the rooftop of the Fred Meyer store located at 1100 NW 13th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209. This is not a public park or city-owned plaza — it is a commercial retail building. The statue is visible from street level, but you cannot physically climb to it or enter the building to get closer without special permission. Use GPS coordinates (45.5208° N, 122.6831° W) or search “Portlandia Statue Fred Meyer” in Google Maps to pinpoint the location. Save the address to your phone or print a directions sheet before you leave.

Step 2: Choose the Right Time to Visit

Timing is critical. The best times to visit are early morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM). During these windows, the lighting is ideal for photography, and foot traffic is lighter. Avoid midday hours (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM) when the sun is directly overhead, creating harsh shadows and glare. Weekdays are preferable over weekends, as weekend crowds — especially from tour groups and social media influencers — can make it difficult to capture a clear view. If you’re planning to photograph the statue, check the weather forecast in advance. Clear skies provide the best contrast against the copper patina of the statue.

Step 3: Arrive on Foot or by Public Transit

Driving to the statue is possible, but parking is limited and expensive. The Fred Meyer parking lot is reserved for shoppers, and street parking is restricted to two hours. The most efficient way to reach the statue is via public transportation. Take the MAX Light Rail to the “Northwest 13th & Glisan” station, which is a 3-minute walk from the building. Alternatively, use TriMet bus routes 12, 14, or 19, all of which stop within a 5-minute walk. If you prefer biking, Portland’s extensive bike lanes make this a viable option — secure bike racks are available near the entrance. Walking from nearby neighborhoods like Nob Hill or the Pearl District is also scenic and takes approximately 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Find the Optimal Viewing Angles

Because the statue is elevated on the roof, ground-level viewing requires strategic positioning. The best vantage points are:

• Across the street at the corner of NW 13th and Lovejoy Street — offers a full frontal view with the building’s facade as a backdrop.
• The sidewalk along NW 13th Avenue between Glisan and Lovejoy — allows for a slightly angled perspective with the Portland skyline visible behind.
• The rooftop patio of the adjacent hotel, The Nines — if you’re a guest or dining at the hotel’s restaurant, you can request a table with a view (no reservation needed for viewing, but dining is recommended).

Use a telephoto lens (70mm or higher) if you’re using a DSLR or mirrorless camera to capture fine details. Smartphones can also capture excellent images if you use the 2x or 3x digital zoom mode. Avoid standing directly under the statue — the view is distorted and the angle is unflattering.

Step 5: Respect Private Property and Signage

Although the statue is visible from public sidewalks, the property is privately owned. Do not attempt to scale fences, climb on railings, or enter the Fred Meyer store with the intent of accessing the rooftop. Signs are posted indicating “No Trespassing” and “Private Property.” Violating these rules can result in fines or police intervention. Respect the space. The statue was placed there as a gift to the city — not as an invitation to disrupt commerce. Take your photos, appreciate the art, and move on.

Step 6: Combine Your Visit with Nearby Attractions

Maximize your time by combining your Portlandia visit with other nearby cultural and culinary landmarks:

• Portland Art Museum (10-minute walk): One of the oldest art museums on the West Coast, featuring Native American, contemporary, and international collections.
• International Rose Test Garden (15-minute drive or 25-minute bike ride): Home to over 10,000 rose bushes and a must-see during blooming season (May–October).
• Powell’s City of Books (10-minute walk): The world’s largest independent bookstore, spanning an entire city block.
• Alberta Street (15-minute walk): A vibrant stretch of independent shops, vintage stores, and artisan coffee roasters.

Plan your visit so that Portlandia is your first stop in the morning, followed by a leisurely stroll through the Pearl District and a late lunch at a local café.

Step 7: Capture and Share Responsibly

Photography is encouraged — in fact, the statue was designed to be photographed. However, be mindful of others. Avoid blocking sidewalks, using tripods without permission, or staging elaborate photo shoots that disrupt pedestrian flow. If you’re posting photos on social media, tag the location as “Portlandia Statue, Fred Meyer, Portland” and use hashtags like

PortlandiaStatue, #VisitPortland, and #PortlandArt. Avoid misleading captions like “Free public monument” — be accurate. Transparency builds trust and helps future visitors understand the context.

Best Practices

Visiting the Portlandia statue isn’t just about location and timing — it’s about how you engage with the landmark and the community around it. These best practices ensure your experience is respectful, sustainable, and enriching.

Practice Cultural Sensitivity

Portlandia is a satirical piece of art. While it celebrates Portland’s unique character, it also pokes fun at its tendencies — from artisanal coffee obsession to veganism and DIY culture. Recognize that the statue is both a tribute and a gentle parody. Avoid taking it too literally or reacting defensively if others joke about it. Embrace the humor. Locals appreciate visitors who understand the context and engage with the spirit of the city, not just its symbols.

Minimize Environmental Impact

Portland is a leader in sustainability. Bring a reusable water bottle. Avoid single-use plastics. If you bring snacks, carry out your trash. The area around the statue is clean because residents and visitors take pride in maintaining it. Don’t litter, even if bins are not immediately visible. Use the nearest public trash receptacle or take your waste to the Fred Meyer store entrance.

Support Local Businesses

While you can’t enter the Fred Meyer store to see the statue up close, you can support the local economy by visiting nearby independent businesses. Buy coffee from Stumptown or Coava. Grab a pastry from Little T American Baker. Shop at a local bookstore or vintage shop. Your spending helps sustain the neighborhood that makes Portlandia meaningful.

Engage with the Community

Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals. Many Portlanders are proud of the statue and happy to share stories about its creation, the *Portlandia* TV show, or their favorite moments tied to it. Ask questions like: “Have you seen the statue since it was installed?” or “What’s your favorite thing about living in Portland?” These interactions often lead to unexpected recommendations and deeper cultural understanding.

Plan for Accessibility

The viewing areas around the statue are wheelchair-accessible via paved sidewalks and curb cuts. The nearest public restrooms are located inside the Fred Meyer store — if you require accessibility accommodations, ask a store employee for assistance. They are generally accommodating to visitors with disabilities, even if you’re not shopping. If you have mobility challenges, consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more comfortable experience.

Document Your Experience Thoughtfully

Instead of rushing through a quick selfie, take a moment to observe the statue. Notice the texture of the copper, the way the light catches the raised arms, the subtle imperfections in the casting. These details reflect the craftsmanship behind the piece. Consider journaling about your visit or writing a short reflection. This transforms a tourist stop into a meaningful cultural encounter.

Tools and Resources

Planning a successful visit to the Portlandia statue requires more than a map. Use these curated tools and resources to enhance your experience, ensure accuracy, and avoid common pitfalls.

Navigation Tools

• Google Maps — Essential for real-time directions, walking times, and street view previews. Use the “Satellite” view to see the statue’s exact placement on the building.
• TriMet Trip Planner — The official transit app for Portland’s bus and MAX light rail system. Enter your starting point and “1100 NW 13th Ave” to get the best route.
• Windy.com — For accurate wind and cloud cover forecasts. Ideal for photographers who need clear skies and minimal glare.

Photography Equipment

• Camera: Any DSLR or mirrorless camera with a 50mm–100mm lens will capture the statue with clarity. If using a smartphone, enable “Portrait Mode” and avoid digital zoom beyond 2x.
• Tripod: Not recommended on public sidewalks due to space constraints, but useful if you’re photographing from a hotel balcony or rooftop patio.
• ND Filter: If shooting during bright daylight, a neutral density filter helps reduce overexposure and capture richer copper tones.

Informational Resources

• Portland Art Museum’s Public Art Map — Offers historical context on city-owned and commissioned public art, including Portlandia.
• City of Portland Public Art Program Website — Provides official documentation on the statue’s commission, artist credits, and cultural significance.
• “Portlandia: The Making of a Monument” (YouTube Documentary, 2013) — A 12-minute behind-the-scenes look at the statue’s fabrication and installation.
• Visit Portland Official Website — The city’s tourism portal includes curated walking tours that feature the statue as a stop.

Mobile Apps for Enhanced Experience

• Atlas Obscura — Lists Portlandia as a “hidden gem” with user-submitted photos and stories.
• Spotify Playlist: “Portland Vibes” — Play this ambient playlist while walking to the statue. It features local artists like The Decemberists and Sleater-Kinney.
• Yelp — Search “coffee near Portlandia statue” to find highly rated cafes within walking distance. Look for places with outdoor seating.

Local Guides and Tours

Several independent tour operators offer guided walks that include Portlandia as a highlight:

• Portland Walking Tours — Offers a “Pop Culture Portland” tour that includes the statue, the “I Love You So Much” mural, and the “Portlandia” filming locations.
• Local Guides Collective — A nonprofit group of Portland residents who lead small-group, pay-what-you-can tours focused on authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

These tours typically last 90 minutes and are led by locals who share insider knowledge not found in guidebooks.

Real Examples

Understanding how to visit Portlandia Statue Portland becomes clearer when you see how others have done it successfully. Below are three real-world examples of visitors who approached the experience thoughtfully — and what they learned.

Example 1: Sarah, a Photographer from Chicago

Sarah visited Portland in late September and planned her Portlandia visit around golden hour. She arrived at 5:15 PM, set up her tripod on the sidewalk across from Fred Meyer, and waited for the light to soften. She used a 70–200mm lens to capture the statue’s details without distortion. She noticed a local woman walking her dog who smiled and said, “That thing’s been here longer than most of the coffee shops in this neighborhood.” Sarah asked about the history, and the woman told her the statue was originally meant to be temporary. That conversation inspired Sarah’s photo series, “Monuments to Quirk,” which later won a regional photography award. Her takeaway: “The best photos come from moments of connection, not just angles.”

Example 2: The Rodriguez Family from Texas

The Rodriguez family, visiting Portland for the first time, assumed the statue was in a public park. They drove to the location, parked illegally, and attempted to climb a fence to get closer. Security approached them, and they were asked to leave. Instead of getting defensive, they apologized and asked where else they could see the statue properly. A store employee pointed them to the sidewalk across the street and recommended Powell’s Books. They spent the rest of the day exploring, and the kids ended up buying Portlandia-themed postcards. Their lesson: “Respect the rules, and you’ll find better experiences.”

Example 3: Marco, a Digital Nomad from Berlin

Marco worked remotely from a café on NW 13th Avenue for a week. Each morning, he took a 10-minute walk to photograph the statue at sunrise. He noticed how the copper changed color with the seasons — more green in spring, warmer in fall. He started a blog documenting the changes, titled “Portlandia Through the Seasons.” He interviewed a Fred Meyer employee who had worked there since the statue’s installation. The employee shared that people often leave small offerings at the base — flowers, notes, even tiny handmade hats. Marco included this in his article, sparking a viral thread about public art rituals. His insight: “Statues don’t just stand still. They become part of daily life.”

These examples illustrate that visiting Portlandia is not a transactional act — it’s a participatory one. The most rewarding visits come from curiosity, humility, and openness to the stories around the statue.

FAQs

Can I go inside the Fred Meyer store to see the statue up close?

No. The statue is mounted on the rooftop and is not accessible to the public. Entering the store will not grant you access to view the statue from above. The building is a functioning retail location, and rooftop access is restricted for safety and security reasons.

Is there an entrance fee to see the Portlandia statue?

No. There is no fee to view the statue from public sidewalks or nearby vantage points. It is a publicly visible artwork, even though it is located on private property.

Is the statue illuminated at night?

Yes. The statue is equipped with subtle LED lighting that highlights its form after dark. Nighttime viewing offers a dramatic, sculptural effect, especially on clear evenings. However, lighting is not as bright as a spotlight — it’s designed to be elegant, not flashy.

Can I bring my dog to see the statue?

Yes. Dogs are welcome on public sidewalks and in nearby parks. However, they must be leashed at all times. Do not bring your dog into the Fred Meyer store unless it is a certified service animal.

Is the statue the same one from the TV show?

Yes. The statue was commissioned by the city and the creators of *Portlandia* as a real-world extension of the show’s aesthetic. It was fabricated using the same design as the prop used in the opening credits. The original TV prop was a smaller version used for filming; the 25-foot statue is the full-scale version installed in 2012.

What if it’s raining? Can I still visit?

Absolutely. Portland is known for its rain, and the statue is designed to withstand the elements. In fact, the copper patina deepens with age and weather exposure. A rainy day can create moody, atmospheric photos. Just wear waterproof gear and be cautious of wet sidewalks.

Are there any guided tours that include Portlandia?

Yes. Several independent walking tours include Portlandia as a stop. Look for “Pop Culture Portland” or “Art & Oddities” tours offered by local guides. These are not city-sponsored, but they provide rich context you won’t find in brochures.

Can I leave flowers or notes at the base of the statue?

While some visitors have left small tokens in the past, the area is regularly cleaned by store staff. Do not leave items on the ground — they may be discarded. If you wish to honor the statue, consider donating to a local arts nonprofit or writing a letter to the City of Portland’s Public Art Program.

Is the statue ever moved or relocated?

No. The statue is permanently affixed to the Fred Meyer rooftop and is not planned for relocation. It is considered a permanent fixture of Portland’s cultural landscape.

How tall is the Portlandia statue?

The statue stands 25 feet (7.6 meters) tall, including its base. The figure itself is approximately 20 feet tall, with the remaining height from the pedestal and structural support.

Conclusion

Visiting the Portlandia statue is not merely about checking a landmark off a list. It is an invitation to engage with a city that embraces eccentricity, art, and community. While the statue’s elevated placement may seem like a barrier, it actually enhances its meaning — it’s a symbol that you must look up to, not just walk up to. The act of seeking it out, respecting its context, and observing its presence in daily life transforms a simple photo opportunity into a thoughtful cultural encounter.

By following this guide — from planning your route and timing your visit to engaging with the community and documenting your experience — you honor not just the statue, but the spirit of Portland itself. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime admirer of the city’s quirks, the Portlandia statue offers a quiet, powerful reminder: that art doesn’t always need to be in a museum to matter. Sometimes, it’s perched on a rooftop, watching over coffee shops, bike lanes, and the people who make a city truly alive.

So go ahead. Plan your visit. Bring your camera. Be curious. And remember — Portland doesn’t just welcome visitors. It invites them to become part of the story.