Categories > Guides and Tips

Everything you need to know about Madison South in Portland
- Where is Madison South?
- What is the main street in Madison South?
- How to Get to Madison South?
- What to Do and See in Madison South
- Meditate in peace at The Grotto
- Try retro-inspired shots at Sunroom Analog
- Play a game of catch at Glenhaven Park
- Where to Eat and Drink in Madison South
- Salt & Pepper Peruvian Food Cart
- Ki’ikibáa
- Wok Shop Kitchen
- Where to Shop in Madison South
- Rocky Butte’s Farmers Market
- Portland Closeout
- Designs by Le’yon, Inc
- Where to Stay in Madison South
- Evergreen Inn & Suites Portland
- Ramada by Wyndham Portland
- Red Lion Hotel Portland Airport
- FAQs
Madison South is an often-overlooked gem in Portland. The neighborhood’s peaceful parks offer a serene escape. It’s also home to one of Portland’s oldest community gardens, established in the 1970s.
One Sunday, I stumbled upon a cozy café with an enticing aroma of freshly baked Italian pastries. Each bite was a reminder of the simple joys found in good food and warm surroundings, adding a layer of charm to my exploration of Madison South.
With this guide, you’ll see why Madison South deserves a place in the spotlight.
Where is Madison South?

Madison South sits in Northeast Portland. It’s surrounded by various neighborhoods, including Roseway, Sumner, and Cully. It’s roughly bordered by I-84 to the south and I-205 to the east.
What is the main street in Madison South?
The main street in Madison South is NE 82nd Avenue, a key road that runs through the neighborhood. It’s nestled close to parks and recreation spots, so there’s a lot to do when exploring it.
How to Get to Madison South?
Metro Bus Service: Take Bus 14-Hawthorne/Foster. This bus line runs frequently, approximately every 15 minutes throughout the day. Get off at the stop closest to Madison South.
You can also take bus number 10. This route also serves the Madison South area; you can get off at the Madison Street stop.
MAX Light Rail: You can take the MAX Green or Yellow lines and disembark at the nearest station.
What to Do and See in Madison South
1. Meditate in peace at The Grotto
Media credit: thegrottopdx
Address: 8840 NE Skidmore St
Phone: (503) 254-7371
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Website
One of the highlights of Madison South is The Grotto, a peaceful Catholic sanctuary nestled within 62 acres of stunning gardens. It’s a quiet spot made for reflection, with walking paths winding through lush forestland.
The sanctuary has chapels that are open to everyone, and they offer daily mass services. The vibrant plants and flowers also make it a great place to take a photo or just enjoy some quiet time away from the city’s hustle.
2. Try retro-inspired shots at Sunroom Analog
Media credit: sunroomanalog
Address: 8715 NE Russell St
Phone: (503) 993-7686
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – Friday: 11:AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday – Tuesday: Closed
Sunroom Analog offers a cool dive into the world of tintype photography, an old-school process from 1851 that results in unique, one-of-a-kind images.
Visitors can book a personalized portrait session and watch as the whole tintype magic happens—from prepping the plates to the chemistry behind it.
The studio has a welcoming vibe, and it’s not uncommon for people to leave with some awesome keepsakes from their visit. If you’re into traditional photography with a fresh twist, this place is a fun and creative spot to check out.
3. Play a game of catch at Glenhaven Park
Media credit: carolcosmo
Address: 7900 NE Siskiyou St
Phone: (503) 823-2525
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:00 AM – Midnight
Website
Glenhaven Park offers plenty of space to hang out and get active. The skatepark is a hit with skateboarders and families looking to have some fun. There’s also lots of open green space perfect for a picnic, kicking around a ball, or just enjoying a walk.
If you’re up for more adventure, Gateway Green is nearby and offers mountain biking trails and hiking paths.
With its mix of laid-back spots and outdoor activities, Glenhaven Park is a favorite for both relaxing and getting moving.
Where to Eat and Drink in Madison South
1. Salt & Pepper Peruvian Food Cart
Media credit: salt.and.pepper.peruvian
Address: 3700 NE 82nd Ave
Phone: (503) 757-9442
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Good to know: Best spot for delicious Peruvian cuisine
Website
Salt & Pepper Peruvian Food Cart serves authentic Peruvian flavors. Their Lomo Saltado is a standout—a stir-fried beef dish with onions, tomatoes, and spices served with fries and rice. It’s got a bit of an Asian twist that makes it super flavorful.
Another favorite is the Ceviche, made with fresh fish marinated in citrus juices and paired with corn and sweet potatoes for the perfect tangy-sweet combination.
They also serve Aji De Gallina, a creamy chicken dish with aji amarillo peppers that brings just the right kick. To top it off, grab an Inca Kola, a sweet and floral Peruvian soda that pairs perfectly with their dishes.
2. Ki’ikibáa
Media credit: kiikibaapdx
Address: 3244 NE 82nd Ave
Phone: (971) 429-1452
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
Good to know: Best spot for authentic Yucatan food
Website
Ki’ikibáa has made waves as Portland’s 2023 Restaurant of the Year, serving up authentic Yucatecan dishes that pack serious flavor.
Their salbutes (thick and soft tortillas loaded with seasoned proteins and fresh veggies) are a must-try for the perfect mix of texture and taste.
The pozole, available in red or green, is a hearty hominy soup with all the traditional garnishes. It offers a rich and comforting bowl of classic Mexican goodness.
The vibe here is lively and welcoming, with colorful décor that sets the mood. And don’t miss their handcrafted drinks—especially the cinnamon-kissed horchata, a sweet and refreshing complement to any meal.
3. Wok Shop Kitchen
Media credit: achanpdx
Address: 2120 NE 82nd Ave
Phone: (971) 279-2207
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Good to know: Ideal for vegetarians
Website
Wok Shop Kitchen has a great mix of Asian comfort food, all about fresh ingredients and big, bold flavors.
One standout is the grilled chicken teriyaki, with tender chicken marinated in a sweet-ginger soy sauce. It’s paired with steamed veggies and rice, giving the dish the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Another favorite is the General Tso Chicken, which features crispy chicken coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce.
Plus, they’ve got gluten-free options for anyone who needs them.
Where to Shop in Madison South
1. Rocky Butte’s Farmers Market
Media credit: rockybuttefm
Address: NE Siskiyou and, NE 80th Ave
Phone: (503) 519-9573
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Website
Rocky Butte’s Farmers Market pops up once a week. It’s a great spot to find seasonal, affordable, and locally grown food alongside artisan goods.
You’ll find fresh produce from nearby farms, handcrafted snacks, and unique items from local makers. One of our favorite finds here is the La Comelona Foods’ salsas—perfect for spicing up your meals.
The market has a community-focused vibe and prioritizes sustainable practices. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to stock up on fresh ingredients or discover something special.
2. Portland Closeout
Media credit: portland_closeout
Address: 2107 NE 82nd Ave
Phone: (503) 253-5028
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: Closed
Portland Closeout is a spot to check out for discounted finds across several categories. The store stands out with its mix of general merchandise, including oriental religious artifacts and home decor.
You’ll come across all kinds of items, perfect for those looking for something different. From budget-friendly household essentials to unique decor pieces, Portland Closeout has a little bit of everything—all at wallet-friendly prices.
3. Designs by Le’yon, Inc
Media credit: designs_by_leyon
Address: NE 79th Ave
Phone: (312) 983-2060
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4 :00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Designs by Le’yon, Inc. focuses on creating custom apparel and accessories with a personal touch. They’re all about individuality, offering custom-designed fashion jewelry and attractive accessories.
Their work is known for its quality and creativity, from one-of-a-kind handmade pieces to personalized designs. It’s a great spot for anyone who wants to add something unique and stylish to their wardrobe, whether it’s for a special occasion or just because.
Where to Stay in Madison South
1. Evergreen Inn & Suites Portland
Media credit: evergreeninnsuites
Address: 3828 NE 82nd Ave
Phone: (503) 256-2550
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3:00 PM
- Check-out: 11:00 AM
Evergreen Inn & Suites sits right off I-205, making it a handy spot for travelers to stop. It also provides close access to spots like The Grotto and Portland International Airport, making it even more attractive for tourists.
The hotel is a budget-friendly option that comes with free high-speed Wi-Fi and a business center. There’s also an indoor pool for a quick dip and a fitness room if you want to stick to your workout routine.
The hotel is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along with a refundable $100 deposit.
2. Ramada by Wyndham Portland
Media credit: ramadabywyndham
Address: 9707 SE Stark St
Distance from Madison South: 6 minutes away
Phone: (503) 388-5793
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3:00 PM
- Check-out: 11:00 AM
Ramada by Wyndham Portland is a convenient spot for travelers to explore the area. Visitors can use free Wi-Fi, and a cooked breakfast is served daily to start the day.
The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and refrigerators for a comfortable stay. A fitness center is also available for those who choose to continue their workout routine.
Known for its clean spaces and helpful staff, the hotel’s focus is to make your visit as hassle-free as possible.
3. Red Lion Hotel Portland Airport
Media credit: redlionhotels
Address: 7101 NE 82nd Ave
Distance from Madison South: 7 minutes away
Phone: (503) 255-6722
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3:00 PM
- Check-out: 12:00 PM
For travelers, the Red Lion Hotel maintains convenience and comfort. It offers handy perks like free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and helpful guest services.
One quirky touch is the “Sock Service” program, where guests get a free pair of wide-width socks at check-in—a thoughtful way to add a little extra comfort. With an on-site restaurant and bar, grabbing a bite or unwinding with a drink is easy.
The hotel also provides accessible and non-smoking rooms, making it a flexible option for a variety of guest needs.