Location: 45.8640034, -122.8064922
Saint Helens is a scenic city along the Columbia River, northwest of Portland. Founded in the mid-1800s as a river port, the city retains much of its historic architecture and small-town charm. Saint Helens is known for its beautiful waterfront, historic courthouse square, and annual community celebrations. The city gained pop culture fame for its Halloween festivities inspired by the movie filmed there, drawing visitors from across Oregon. Economically, it has roots in timber and shipping, but today it’s evolving with tourism, local business, and residential growth. Residents enjoy river access, mountain views, and a peaceful lifestyle within commuting distance to Portland. The community’s combination of heritage, creativity, and natural beauty makes Saint Helens one of the most distinctive small cities in the Columbia River region.