Portland Aerial Tram, Portland

The Portland Aerial Tram is one of only two aerial tramways in the United States designed mainly for urban commuting, alongside New York’s Roosevelt Island Tramway. Opened to the public in 2007, it links the waterfront district with Oregon Health & Science University on Marquam Hill. The 3,300-foot route rises about 500 feet in three to four minutes, and each of its two silver, bubble-shaped cabins can carry up to 79 people, including the operator.

The tram’s engineering is as notable as the ride. Its 197-foot intermediate tower was fabricated in Vancouver, Washington, transported along the Willamette River in three sections, and assembled on site. At the upper end, a 140-foot station tower connects to the hospital by a skybridge. The structure is separated from the hospital to prevent vibrations from affecting microsurgery.

Large cabin windows provide views of the river, bridges, wooded hills, and the central skyline, with Mount Hood and other Cascade peaks visible in clear weather. The lower terminal forms part of a varied transport hub, connecting the tram with streetcars, light rail, buses, pedestrian routes, and cycling infrastructure. A free public bike valet beside the terminal allows cyclists to leave their bicycles securely before travelling uphill.