Historic Overlook House
The Historic Overlook House, built in 1928, has long served as a vibrant community meeting place in the Overlook neighborhood. For the past 50 years, it has also been an affordable wedding venue since the property was purchased by the City of Portland from the civic-minded owners of the Raven Creamery and established as a community center. Couples who rent this venue for their wedding can take pride in knowing that all funds contribute to the maintenance and restoration of the property.
If you’re looking for the laid-back, homey feel of a backyard wedding but want the conveniences of an established venue, the Historic Overlook House might be perfect for you. Located in a quintessential Eastside Portland neighborhood, it sits on the bluffs overlooking the Willamette River and downtown Portland.
The house features hardwood floors, period-appropriate fixtures, and charming furnishings. The spacious backyard is adorned with blooming roses and a sprawling lawn, ideal for ceremonies, receptions, dancing, or lounging on shaded blankets during the summer heat.
While the backyard is perfect for outdoor events of up to 150 people, the house itself can accommodate up to 75 guests, making it a reliable backup for inclement weather. Additionally, the basement can be reserved for an evening dance party at an extra fee.
Ceremony and Reception Areas
The backyard of the Historic Overlook House works seamlessly as both a ceremony and reception location. Typically, the seating arrangement transitions from the ceremony to the reception, but the cement patio offers ample space to host guests for a cocktail hour while tables are being set up.
Ceremonies are often held on the cement patio under a white trellis surrounded by vibrant red roses. In the summer, the mid-day sun can be quite intense at this spot, so couples might consider adding overhanging shades to keep everyone comfortable.
Getting Ready Rooms
The upstairs area offers great flexibility with several changing rooms and bathrooms. The largest room, which often functions as a community meeting space, features long tables, while two smaller rooms exude a charming ambiance with period furniture. Wedding parties can spread out among these rooms, and the bride can transition to a smaller, less cluttered room when it’s time to get into her dress.
Nearby Attractions
The Overlook House is close to Interstate Avenue, home to one of Portland’s oldest karaoke bars, The Alibi. For couples and guests looking to extend the celebration, The Alibi offers a lively after-party option.
For out-of-town guests renting Airbnbs in the neighborhood, a visit to Mock Crest Park on the East Overlook bluffs is a must. The park offers unobstructed views of the Willamette River bridges and train yards below. Bring a blanket and enjoy the sunset alongside Portland locals.
Parking
The Historic Overlook House provides a few reserved parking spots for vendors and key family members. Guests will need to park in the surrounding neighborhood, which typically has sufficient availability.
Venue Perks
- Spacious backyard lawn and garden
- Accommodates up to 150 outdoors and 75 indoors
- Full kitchen
- Multiple spacious getting-ready rooms
- Basement party room (available for an additional fee)
- ADA accessible
- Free Wi-Fi
- Booking fees contribute to maintaining the historic property
- Complimentary tables and chairs
- Period furnishings
- Dishes and flatware available for rent
Lodging
Please inquire directly with the Historic Overlook House for pricing information.
Photo Opportunities
The Historic Overlook House offers a wide range of photo opportunities. Couples can pose in the brick archway at the entrance, framed by the house and its picturesque grounds. The white picket fence provides a charming backdrop for family and wedding party photos. In the backyard, the evening light filtering through the trees creates beautiful backlit portraits.
A few blocks away, a small park with a giant oak tree and purple blooms in the summer offers another scenic option. Additionally, the spiral staircase at the back of the house, adorned with wisteria, makes for a stunning photo spot at the right time of day.
Seasonal Availability
The Historic Overlook House is available for weddings year-round, but the best months are late spring, summer, and early fall to take full advantage of the backyard and blooming gardens. Since the property also hosts community events, couples are encouraged to inquire well in advance to secure their desired date.
Contact Info:
Phone: (503) 208-7312
Email: coordinator@historicoverlookhouse.org
Website: https://historicoverlookhouse.org
Address: 3839 N Melrose Dr, Portland, OR 97227
