Visiting Congregation Neveh Shalom, Portland: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Congregation Neveh Shalom, located in Portland, Oregon, stands as a beacon of Jewish heritage, community, and spiritual life. As the oldest Conservative synagogue on the West Coast and one of the Pacific Northwest’s most enduring Jewish congregations, Neveh Shalom embodies over 150 years of rich tradition, resilience, and cultural evolution. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, education, or worship, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know for a meaningful visit, including historical context, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions. For the latest updates, consult the official Neveh Shalom website and trusted sources like Oregon Jewish Life.

Table of Contents

Overview and Historical Background

Origins and Evolution

The origins of Congregation Neveh Shalom trace back to 1869, when Ahavai Sholom was founded by Prussian Jewish immigrants in Portland. Over the ensuing decades, other congregations, such as Neveh Zedek (established in 1892) and Talmud Torah (1893), emerged to serve the growing Jewish community. In 1961, these congregations merged to form Neveh Shalom, symbolizing unity and the ongoing commitment to Conservative Judaism in Portland (Oregon Jewish Life).

Neveh Shalom has played a central role in supporting the spiritual, educational, and social needs of the Jewish population, adapting to demographic shifts and evolving community priorities. The congregation’s commitment to inclusivity and social justice is reflected in its programs and leadership—Rabbi Eve Posen, for example, will become the synagogue’s first female Senior Rabbi in 2025 (Oregon Jewish Life).


Architectural Features and Campus Layout

Evolution of the Campus

The synagogue’s architectural journey reflects the growth and adaptability of Portland’s Jewish community. Early buildings, such as the “Polisha shul” on Southwest Sixth Avenue, represented the traditions of its founders. The current campus at 2900 SW Peaceful Lane, opened after the 1961 merger, combines mid-century modern design with Jewish symbolism, including the prominent Star of David installed in 1964 (Oregon Encyclopedia).

A major renovation in 2008 enhanced accessibility, modernized facilities, and added spaces for education and community events (Neveh Shalom About).

Interior and Artistic Highlights

The main sanctuary features a centrally located bimah and flexible seating, fostering egalitarian participation. Artistic elements—including stained glass, ceremonial objects, and a beautifully crafted Torah ark—blend tradition with contemporary expression. The campus also includes classrooms, social halls, the Feldstein Library, and accessible amenities for all visitors (Neveh Shalom Visitor Guide).

Outdoor spaces, such as Holzman Plaza, host community gatherings like the “Shabbat on the Plaza” series, integrating Portland’s natural beauty with Jewish communal life.


Religious Services and Community Programs

Worship Services

Neveh Shalom offers a robust schedule of religious services:

  • Daily Morning Minyan: Held in the Zidell Chapel and online, with varying start times throughout the week (Neveh Shalom Events).
  • Shabbat Services: Friday evenings and Saturday mornings, featuring traditional liturgy and inclusive participation.
  • Lifecycle Events: Bar/bat mitzvahs, weddings, and memorials are conducted with warmth and tradition.

Community Engagement

Beyond worship, Neveh Shalom is a hub for social justice initiatives, interfaith outreach, and cultural activities. Programs such as food drives, “Tikkun Olam” projects, and participation in local Pride parades reflect the congregation’s commitment to inclusivity and civic responsibility (Neveh Shalom).


Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

  • Regular Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM (hours may vary for holidays and special events).
  • Admission: General entry and attendance at regular services are free. Some special events and educational programs may require RSVP or tickets—check the events calendar.
  • Guided Tours: Available by appointment; contact the synagogue office to arrange a tour.
  • Accessibility: The campus is fully ADA-compliant, featuring ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
  • Parking: Ample on-site parking is available; public transportation options serve the Hillsdale neighborhood.

Educational and Cultural Offerings

Education is central to Neveh Shalom’s mission, offering opportunities for all ages:

  • Foundation School: Early childhood education grounded in Jewish values.
  • ALIYAH K–12 and USY: Youth education and teen programs.
  • Adult Education: Classes, seminars, and programs exploring Jewish ritual, history, and contemporary issues (Oregon Jewish Life).
  • Cultural Events: Book clubs, concerts, and holiday celebrations. Special programs like “Shabbat on the Plaza,” themed Shabbat services, and guest lectures are open to members and visitors alike (Neveh Shalom Events).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Location and Neighborhood

  • Address: 2900 SW Peaceful Lane, Portland, OR 97239 (Neveh Shalom Contact)
  • Neighborhood: Hillsdale, a tranquil residential area with easy access to downtown Portland.

Nearby Historical and Cultural Sites

  • Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education
  • Council Crest Park: Panoramic views of Portland and the Cascades.
  • George Himes Park: Walking trails and green space.
  • Baruh–Zell House: Notable example of 20th-century residential architecture (Trek Zone).

These attractions complement a visit to Neveh Shalom, offering further insight into Portland’s Jewish and cultural heritage.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are Neveh Shalom’s visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Sunday, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM; confirm on the official website for holiday variations.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: General entry is free. Special events may require RSVP or tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment. Contact the office to arrange.

Q: Is the synagogue accessible?
A: Yes, fully ADA-compliant.

Q: Can visitors take photographs?
A: Photography is not permitted during services, Shabbat, or Jewish holidays; inquire for other times.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, ample on-site parking is provided.


Planning Your Visit and Staying Connected

We invite visitors of all backgrounds to experience the welcoming community and remarkable history of Congregation Neveh Shalom. For event schedules, visiting guidelines, and to arrange a tour, consult the official website.

Stay engaged through Neveh Shalom’s social media channels and consider downloading the Audiala app for audio guides, virtual tours, and up-to-date information on Portland’s Jewish heritage.


References


By exploring Congregation Neveh Shalom, you connect with a living legacy of faith, education, and inclusivity—an essential part of Portland’s cultural and historical landscape.

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Portland

5Th Avenue Cinema
5Th Avenue Cinema
|
  Acadia: A New Orleans Bistro
| Acadia: A New Orleans Bistro
Ainu And Native American Power Boards
Ainu And Native American Power Boards
Akadi
Akadi
Alberta Park
Alberta Park
Alphabet Historic District
Alphabet Historic District
Ankeny Square
Ankeny Square
Arbor Lodge Park
Arbor Lodge Park
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Bagdad Theater
Bagdad Theater
Berkeley Park
Berkeley Park
Berrydale Park
Berrydale Park
Bipartisan Cafe
Bipartisan Cafe
Bit House Saloon
Bit House Saloon
Biwa
Biwa
Blackstone Hall
Blackstone Hall
Bloomington Park
Bloomington Park
Bluehour
Bluehour
Bob White Theatre
Bob White Theatre
Brasserie Montmartre
Brasserie Montmartre
Brentwood Park
Brentwood Park
British Overseas Restaurant Corporation
British Overseas Restaurant Corporation
Broadway Bridge
Broadway Bridge
Brushstrokes
Brushstrokes
Burnside Bridge
Burnside Bridge
Bust Of York
Bust Of York
Cadillac Cafe
Cadillac Cafe
Captain William Clark Monument
Captain William Clark Monument
Caruthers Park
Caruthers Park
Cathedral Park
Cathedral Park
|
  Cheryl'S On 12Th
| Cheryl'S On 12Th
Chiles Center
Chiles Center
Chiming Fountain
Chiming Fountain
Chinatown Gateway
Chinatown Gateway
Cinemagic Theater
Cinemagic Theater
Clinton Park
Clinton Park
Coffin Club
Coffin Club
Colonel Summers Park
Colonel Summers Park
Columbia Park
Columbia Park
Coming Of The White Man
Coming Of The White Man
Commodore Hotel
Commodore Hotel
Concordia University Portland
Concordia University Portland
Congregation Neveh Shalom
Congregation Neveh Shalom
Congregation Shaarie Torah
Congregation Shaarie Torah
Consulate Of Mexico, Portland
Consulate Of Mexico, Portland
Couch Park
Couch Park
Council Crest Park
Council Crest Park
Crystal Ballroom
Crystal Ballroom
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Cully Park
Cully Park
Dan And Louis Oyster Bar
Dan And Louis Oyster Bar
Darcelle Xv Plaza
Darcelle Xv Plaza
Darcelle Xv Showplace
Darcelle Xv Showplace
Davenport
Davenport
David Campbell Memorial
David Campbell Memorial
Dawson Park
Dawson Park
Delta Cafe
Delta Cafe
Delta Park
Delta Park
Der Rheinlander
Der Rheinlander
Director Park
Director Park
Dog Bowl
Dog Bowl
Duniway Park
Duniway Park
East Portland Branch, Public Library Of Multnomah County
East Portland Branch, Public Library Of Multnomah County
Eastbank Esplanade
Eastbank Esplanade
Echo Theater
Echo Theater
Ed Benedict Park
Ed Benedict Park
Eem
Eem
Either/Or
Either/Or
|
  Elk Rock Gardens Of The Bishop'S Close
| Elk Rock Gardens Of The Bishop'S Close
Errol Heights Park
Errol Heights Park
|
  Esparza'S
| Esparza'S
Essex Park
Essex Park
Farewell To Orpheus
Farewell To Orpheus
Farragut Park
Farragut Park
Flavel Park
Flavel Park
Forest Park
Forest Park
|
  Frank'S Noodle House
| Frank'S Noodle House
Fremont Bridge
Fremont Bridge
Gabriel Park
Gabriel Park
Gammans Park
Gammans Park
George Himes Park
George Himes Park
George Park
George Park
George Washington
George Washington
Ghost Ship
Ghost Ship
Grant Park
Grant Park
Gypsy Restaurant And Velvet Lounge
Gypsy Restaurant And Velvet Lounge
Harney Park
Harney Park
Hawks Pdx
Hawks Pdx
Hawthorne Bridge
Hawthorne Bridge
Hazeltine Park
Hazeltine Park
Heathman Hotel
Heathman Hotel
Henry Thiele Restaurant
Henry Thiele Restaurant
Holladay Park
Holladay Park
Hollywood Theatre
Hollywood Theatre
Holon
Holon
Horse Brass Pub
Horse Brass Pub
Hoyt Hotel
Hoyt Hotel
|
  Huber'S Restaurant
| Huber'S Restaurant
International Harvester Company Warehouse
International Harvester Company Warehouse
International Rose Test Garden
International Rose Test Garden
Interstate Bridge
Interstate Bridge
Irving Park
Irving Park
Irving Street Kitchen
Irving Street Kitchen
Irvington
Irvington
|
  Jaciva'S Bakery And Chocolatier
| Jaciva'S Bakery And Chocolatier
|
  Jake'S Famous Crawfish
| Jake'S Famous Crawfish
Jamison Square
Jamison Square
Joan Of Arc
Joan Of Arc
Joe Etzel Field
Joe Etzel Field
Johnson Creek Park
Johnson Creek Park
Keller Fountain Park
Keller Fountain Park
Kelley Point Park
Kelley Point Park
Kelly Butte Natural Area
Kelly Butte Natural Area
Kennedy School
Kennedy School
Kenton Park
Kenton Park
Kern Park
Kern Park
|
  Kim Jong Grillin'
| Kim Jong Grillin'
King Albert Hall
King Albert Hall
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
|
  Ladd'S Addition
| Ladd'S Addition
Lair Hill Park
Lair Hill Park
Laurelhurst Park
Laurelhurst Park
Laurelwood Pub And Brewery
Laurelwood Pub And Brewery
Le Happy
Le Happy
Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Lents Park
Lents Park
Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall
Lloyd Center
Lloyd Center
Lloyd District
Lloyd District
Lone Fir Cemetery
Lone Fir Cemetery
Lovejoy Columns
Lovejoy Columns
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Loyal B. Stearns Memorial Fountain
Loyal B. Stearns Memorial Fountain
Lutz Tavern
Lutz Tavern
Marquam Nature Park
Marquam Nature Park
Martini Glass Sign
Martini Glass Sign
Mccoy Park
Mccoy Park
Mckenna Park
Mckenna Park
Merchant Hotel
Merchant Hotel
Mill Ends Park
Mill Ends Park
Moda Center
Moda Center
Montavilla Park
Montavilla Park
Morrison Bridge
Morrison Bridge
Mt. Scott Park
Mt. Scott Park
Multnomah University
Multnomah University
National Cash Register Building
National Cash Register Building
Ned Flanders Crossing
Ned Flanders Crossing
Neuberger Hall
Neuberger Hall
Normandale Park
Normandale Park
Northwest Film Center
Northwest Film Center
Nostrana
Nostrana
Nuestra Cocina
Nuestra Cocina
O Cruceiro
O Cruceiro
Oaks Amusement Park
Oaks Amusement Park
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Ocean City Seafood Restaurant
Ocean City Seafood Restaurant
Old Town / Chinatown
Old Town / Chinatown
Old Town Pizza
Old Town Pizza
Olive Or Twist
Olive Or Twist
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Historical Society
Oregon Historical Society
Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
Oregon Park
Oregon Park
Oregon Zoo
Oregon Zoo
Oriental Theatre
Oriental Theatre
|
  Otto'S Sausage Kitchen
| Otto'S Sausage Kitchen
Overlook Restaurant
Overlook Restaurant
Pambiche Cocina And Repostería Cubana
Pambiche Cocina And Repostería Cubana
|
  Papi Chulo'S
| Papi Chulo'S
Paris Theatre
Paris Theatre
Parklane Park
Parklane Park
Peace Chant
Peace Chant
Peninsula Park
Peninsula Park
Peter Stott Center
Peter Stott Center
Pettygrove Park
Pettygrove Park
Pier Park
Pier Park
Pioneer Courthouse
Pioneer Courthouse
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Place
Pioneer Place
Pittock Mansion
Pittock Mansion
Por Que No
Por Que No
Portland Art Museum
Portland Art Museum
Portland Building
Portland Building
Portland City Grill
Portland City Grill
Portland Firefighters Park
Portland Firefighters Park
Portland Institute For Contemporary Art
Portland Institute For Contemporary Art
Portland International Airport
Portland International Airport
Portland International Raceway
Portland International Raceway
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland State University
Portland State University
Portlandia
Portlandia
|
  Portland'S Centers For The Arts
| Portland'S Centers For The Arts
Powell Park
Powell Park
Produce Row Café
Produce Row Café
Providence Park
Providence Park
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Ring Of Time
Ring Of Time
River View Cemetery
River View Cemetery
Rose City Park
Rose City Park
Ross Island Bridge
Ross Island Bridge
Sacajawea And Jean-Baptiste
Sacajawea And Jean-Baptiste
Sacajawea Park
Sacajawea Park
Salmon Street Springs
Salmon Street Springs
Screen Door
Screen Door
Sellwood Park
Sellwood Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Sewallcrest Park
Sewallcrest Park
Shanghai Tunnel Bar
Shanghai Tunnel Bar
Shift Drinks
Shift Drinks
Shriners Hospital For Children
Shriners Hospital For Children
Simon Benson House
Simon Benson House
Skidmore Old Town Historic District
Skidmore Old Town Historic District
South Park Blocks
South Park Blocks
South Waterfront Greenway
South Waterfront Greenway
South Waterfront Park
South Waterfront Park
|
  Spanish–American War Soldier'S Monument
| Spanish–American War Soldier'S Monument
Spanish–American War Veterans Memorial
Spanish–American War Veterans Memorial
Spirit Of 77
Spirit Of 77
St. Helens Court
St. Helens Court
St. Johns Bridge
St. Johns Bridge
St. Johns Park
St. Johns Park
St. Johns Racquet Center
St. Johns Racquet Center
Star Theater
Star Theater
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Paul Bunyan
Statue Of Paul Bunyan
Stratum
Stratum
Sunnyside School Park
Sunnyside School Park
Swan Island Municipal Airport
Swan Island Municipal Airport
Tanner Springs Park
Tanner Springs Park
Tasty N Alder
Tasty N Alder
Terry Schrunk Plaza
Terry Schrunk Plaza
The Alibi
The Alibi
The Dime Store
The Dime Store
The Dream
The Dream
The Fields Park
The Fields Park
The Oregonian Printing Press Park
The Oregonian Printing Press Park
The Parish
The Parish
The Roxy
The Roxy
The Woodsman Tavern
The Woodsman Tavern
Theodore Roosevelt, Rough Rider
Theodore Roosevelt, Rough Rider
Thor
Thor
Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Tikitotmoniki Totems
Tikitotmoniki Totems
Tilikum Crossing, Bridge Of The People
Tilikum Crossing, Bridge Of The People
Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
Toro Bravo
Toro Bravo
Town Club
Town Club
Trenton Park
Trenton Park
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Two Plum Park
Two Plum Park
Union Station
Union Station
Union Station / Northwest 6Th & Hoyt Street
Union Station / Northwest 6Th & Hoyt Street
University Of Portland
University Of Portland
University Of Western States
University Of Western States
Unthank Park
Unthank Park
Urban Hydrology
Urban Hydrology
Urban Plaza
Urban Plaza
Uss Blueback
Uss Blueback
Vault Cocktail Lounge
Vault Cocktail Lounge
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Virginia Cafe
Virginia Cafe
Voices Of Remembrance
Voices Of Remembrance
Voodoo Doughnut
Voodoo Doughnut
Walk Of The Heroines
Walk Of The Heroines
Wallace Park
Wallace Park
Warner Pacific University
Warner Pacific University
Wellington Park
Wellington Park
Wells Fargo Center
Wells Fargo Center
Westmoreland Park
Westmoreland Park
White Stag Block
White Stag Block
Wildwood
Wildwood
Willamette National Cemetery
Willamette National Cemetery
Willamette Park
Willamette Park
Wilshire Park
Wilshire Park
Winter Rider No. 2
Winter Rider No. 2
|
  Wong'S King
| Wong'S King
Woodlawn Park
Woodlawn Park
Woodstock Park
Woodstock Park
Yale Union Laundry Building
Yale Union Laundry Building
Yankee Champion
Yankee Champion