Portland International Airport

Portland International Airport (PDX) is a joint civil–military airport and the largest airport in the U.S. state of Oregon. It is within Portland's city limits just south of the Columbia River in Multnomah County, 6 miles by air and 12 miles by highway northeast of downtown Portland. 

The Portland International Airport, which has been rated the greatest airport in the United States for four years running, helps to lessen the pain of contemporary air travel. Travelers praise PDX for its accessibility and convenience, airport facilities, and wide variety of regional cuisine, wine, and craft breweries. 

Where else can you pass time before a flight by seeing a free local short film, snagging a famous Pendleton blanket, and indulging in local specialties like Blue Star doughnuts and Country Cat fried chicken? Continue reading to find out how to get about Portland, where to eat, drink, and buy souvenirs, as well as the fun things to do.

Know Before You Go

Since there is just one terminal in PDX, which is approximately shaped like a "U," there is no need to worry about taking a train between terminals if you need to catch a connecting flight. Take the MAX light rail for a few dollars with ease. It is positioned directly outside the station and will carry you into downtown while avoiding all traffic. The airport at PDX is renowned for being speedy and spotless and for having friendly customer service staff.

Five concourses are present: A, B, C, D, and E. On the south side of the terminal are concourses A, B, and C, while on the north are concourses D and E. The passageway between the two sides has a moveable door.

Parking at Portland Airport

The following parking choices are available in PDX. The long-term garage is close by, there is an economy lot off of Airport Way close to I-205, and there is short-term parking just next to the terminal. All are well-lit and secure. Here, you may verify the availability in advance. Cash, debit cards, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa are accepted forms of payment.

• Short-term ($3/hour or $27/day)
• Long-term ($3/hour or $24/day)
• Economy ($3/hour or $12/day)
• Valet ($10/hour or $35/day)

Additionally, there are services for prolonged stays, big cars, disability parking, and electric automobiles. A short distance from the terminal, off of N.E. Airport Way and N.E. 82nd Avenue, is a cell phone lot. The waiting period for those waiting to pick up passengers is up to 30 minutes in their vehicles.

Driving Directions

On the Morrison Bridge, go east from the city centre until you reach I-84 East. Join I-205 North, exit at Airport Way West, and proceed as directed to the PDX terminal.

Depending on traffic, it may take less than 20 minutes to get to the airport from downtown. Therefore, make sure to give yourself some additional time, especially during rush hour. I-84 and I-205 have high traffic frequently.

Public Transportation, Taxis, Shuttles, & Rental Cars

The MAX light rail is the easiest way to travel to and from the airport.

Taxis and Uber: Uber cars and taxis from companies like Radio Cab can be found on the middle roadway island outside of baggage claim. Airport and private shuttles: These are also located on the middle roadway island outside of baggage claim. Rental cars: Find these across the roadway from baggage claim on the first floor of the airport parking garage.

Where to Eat and Drink

Before Security: Bangkok Express Thai Food, Beach Shack Good Grub, Beaches, Blue Star Donuts + Coffee, Flying Elephant Delicatessen, Panda Express, Food Carts PDX, Stanford's Concourse A: Laurelwood Public House, Starbucks Concourse B: Capers Café, Capers Market, Kenny & Zuke’s Delicatessen, Stumptown Coffee Roasters Concourse C: Bambuza Vietnam Kitchen, Cafe Yumm!, Henry’s Tavern, McDonalds, MOD pizza, Mo’s Seafood & Chowder, Portland Roasting Company, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Starbucks Concourse D: Burgerville, Deschutes Brewery, Hissho Sushi, Peet’s Coffee, Tamale Boy Concourse E: Hopworks Urban Brewery, Portland Roasting Company, The Country Cat

Where to Shop 

For those back home, did you forget to buy souvenirs? You won't be forced into purchasing costly, garish T-shirts because there are so many airport stores with great selections. 

Delicious chocolates, wines, and cured meats from the state are available at Made in Oregon. Unique handcrafted gifts produced by PNW artisans may be found at Tender Loving Empire. Purchase some sports or outdoor apparel from Nike or Columbia, or one of the recognizable wool blankets from Pendleton.

How to Spend Your Layover

Watch short film presentations showcasing stories set in the Pacific Northwest at the Hollywood Theatre in Concourse C. All of the movies are suitable for children, and admission to the screenings is free.

Additionally located in concourse C, the Dragontree Spa provides chair and full-body massages as well as a selection of natural cosmetics.

Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

You can access free Wi-Fi throughout the airport provided by the Port of Portland. Charging stations for electronics can be found throughout the terminal.

Nearby Hotels

There are several of places to stay close to PDX if you want to stay the night before or after a trip, including Embassy Suites, Radisson, Holiday Inn, Residence Inn, Hyatt, and Aloft, all of which are a short distance away.

FAQs about Portland International Airport