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located 6 miles northeast of downtown Portland, Oregon, is the state’s largest airport, serving over 19.8 million passengers annually. Operated by the Port of Portland, PDX features a single terminal with four concourses—Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, and Concourse E—totaling 60 gates. Known for its traveler-friendly design and recent $2 billion PDX Next renovation (completed in August 2024), the airport boasts a stunning mass-timber roof, local dining, and a seamless layout enhanced by the Airport Transit System (ATS) walkway connecting all concourses post-security. With ongoing construction refining the experience into 2026, PDX consistently ranks among the best U.S. airports.
PDX’s single terminal is a U-shaped structure with three levels: Level 1 for baggage claim and ground transportation, Level 2 for ticketing and security, and a mezzanine with a USO lounge and conference center. The terminal splits into two wings—South (Concourses B and C) and North (Concourses D and E)—each accessed via separate security checkpoints at either end (South near B/C, North near D/E). The ATS moving walkway links all concourses post-security, though construction may temporarily disrupt direct B/C-to-D/E walks—check signs or the PDX app. Concourse assignments are: Alaska and American on B and C, Hawaiian and Southwest on D and E, Delta and United split across C and E, with D hosting international flights.
Where to Eat
Pre-security, the main terminal’s Loyal Legion Beer Hall (mezzanine) pours local craft brews and pub fare—try the IPA and pretzels. Post-security, Concourse B’s Blue Star Donuts (near B6) offers brioche-style treats, Concourse C’s Mo’s Oyster Bar (near C10) serves clam chowder, Concourse D’s Bamboo Sushi (near D5) dishes sustainable rolls, and Concourse E’s Hopworks Urban Brewery (near E8) pairs IPAs with burgers.
Where to Rest
The Alaska Lounge near Gate C5 (day pass $50) offers plush seating and snacks—open to all for a fee. Concourse E’s United Club (near E2, $59 day pass) provides showers and Wi-Fi. Near Gate D12, a quiet seating area with outlets overlooks the tarmac—free and calm.
What to Do:
The PDX Art Program shines with Yoonhee Choi’s mural near D8 and Ivan McClellan’s video walls in the main terminal—snap a pic. Plane-watch from Gate E13’s floor-to-ceiling windows.
Unique Features
The 9-acre mass-timber roof and 72 live trees in the terminal create a forest-like feel—check the mezzanine view. Free Wi-Fi (“flypdx”) is strong everywhere. Pet relief areas are outside Door 2 (Level 1) and post-security near C12.
How to Get There:
From downtown Portland, the TriMet MAX Red Line ($2.80, 45 minutes) stops at Level 1 near baggage claim—runs 4:50 AM to 12:30 AM. Taxis ($45-$50) and rideshares (pickup at Level 1, Island 2) take 20-40 minutes. Park in the Short-Term Garage ($30/day, Level 4 skybridge) or Economy Lots ($12/day) with shuttles.
Concourse B
with 9 gates (B3-B11), serves Alaska Airlines and some American flights. It’s the southernmost concourse, compact and lively, with a focus on local flavor.
Dining Options: Blue Star Donuts near B6 offers unique flavors like blueberry bourbon—grab a half-dozen. Stumptown Coffee by B8 roasts bold pour-overs—perfect for a morning flight. PDX Market near B4 has quick snacks like jerky and nuts.
Rest and Relaxation: Near B11, cushioned seats with USB ports face the runway—a quieter spot. The pre-security main terminal’s stadium seating (via ATS) is a breezy alternative with tree views.
Activities and Entertainment: The gift shop near B6 stocks Portland-themed tees and Powell’s Books minis. Plane-spot from B10’s window.
Special Highlights: A hydration station near B8 keeps you eco-friendly—refill bottles here. Gate B3’s outdoor boarding ramp is a rare PDX perk—snap a photo on the tarmac.
Concourse C
with 19 gates (C4-C23), hosts Alaska, American, Delta, and United, stretching south alongside B. It’s the busiest concourse, blending local eats with traveler needs.
Dining Options: Mo’s Oyster Bar near C10 serves creamy clam chowder in bread bowls—a Pacific Northwest classic. Deschutes Brewery by C15 pours Mirror Pond Pale Ale with pub bites. Powell’s Books Café near C7 pairs coffee with pastries.
Rest and Relaxation: The Alaska Lounge near C5 offers cozy chairs and light fare—worth the fee for calm. Near C23, a seating nook with outlets is less hectic—great for a nap.
Activities and Entertainment: Powell’s Books by C7 sells local reads—grab “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed. Watch planes from C20’s glass wall.
A pet relief area near C12 has faux grass—handy for furry friends. The concourse’s live music stage by C10 hosts local acts—check schedules online.
Concourse D
with 13 gates (D1-D13), serves Hawaiian, Southwest, and international flights (renamed for Governor Victor G. Atiyeh). It’s the northern start, with a global vibe.
- Dining Options: Bamboo Sushi near D5 offers sustainable nigiri—try the salmon roll. Country Cat by D9 serves Southern biscuits and gravy—a hearty stop. Pre-security Sheldrake Coffee near ticketing roasts smooth blends.
- Rest and Relaxation: Near D13, a seating area with outlets and runway views is serene—ideal for downtime. The main terminal’s pre-security forest seating is a quick ATS ride back.
- Activities and Entertainment: Duty-free shops near D4 stock chocolates and perfumes—great for gifts.
- Special Highlights: Global Entry kiosks near D5 speed customs—apply online first. A Mamava Pod by D7 offers privacy (app-unlocked)—perfect for nursing or quiet.
Concourse E
with 12 gates (E2-E13), hosts Southwest and United, extended in 2020 for more capacity. It’s the northernmost concourse, modern and spacious.
Dining Options: Hopworks Urban Brewery near E8 pairs IPAs with organic burgers—try the veggie patty. Tender Loving Empire by E10 serves light wraps and local coffee. Hudson News near E4 has quick snacks.
Rest and Relaxation: The United Club near E2 offers showers and Wi-Fi—day passes available. Near E13, cushioned seats with outlets face the runway—a free calm spot.
The 2020 extension added Gate E13’s triple jetway for larger planes—watch 737s load. A kids’ play area near E8 keeps little ones busy—parents can relax nearby.
PDX’s terminal map is a traveler’s dream—intuitive, infused with Oregon’s spirit, and packed with options. Whether you’re dining, resting, or exploring, it’s a seamless start to your Portland journey.
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Brian Mitchell