Is there a train to Portland?

Amtrak's Empire Builder runs through Portland, but you must get to a hub first.

What is the best airport?

PDX is the primary international airport and is very close to downtown.

How long is the drive?

It takes about 30 hours of driving time, usually split over three days.

No, Portland has excellent public transit, but a car is helpful for exploring the surrounding nature.

Yes, the route is well-traveled, but be prepared for mountain passes and potential winter weather.

O'Fallon

Portland

Flight Driving

O'Fallon to Portland

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from O'Fallon to Portland covers approximately 2,000 miles. You can fly from St. Louis Lambert (STL) to Portland International (PDX) in about 4 hours. Driving involves taking I-70 West to I-84 West, crossing the Rockies and the Pacific Northwest. This is a scenic route that takes you through the heart of the American West.

Total Distance: 3,218 km driving, 2,700 km air distance.

Fastest Way

A direct flight from STL to PDX takes 4 hours, saving you over 26 hours of travel time.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often the most economical option when considering the high cost of fuel and overnight stays for a 30-hour drive.

Compare O'Fallon to Portland Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	30 hours
Avg Price	$200 - $600	$400 - $700 in fuel
Operator	Alaska Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	STL to PDX	I-70 W to I-84 W
Tip	PDX is well-connected to downtown Portland via the MAX light rail system.	Be prepared for snow on mountain passes in the Rockies and Cascades during winter months.

Travel Tips

Public Transit
Use the MAX light rail system to navigate the city; it is the fastest and most efficient way to travel.
Walking
Portland is a very walkable city; wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for a lot of walking.
Reservations
Book popular restaurants and attractions like the Japanese Garden tours well in advance.
Weather
Portland can be very rainy in the winter and pleasant in the summer; pack accordingly.
Safety
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas outside of the main tourist zones at night.

Safety Tips

Neighborhoods
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas outside of the main tourist zones at night.
Emergency
Keep a list of local emergency numbers and a physical map in your car for driving in the city.
Pedestrian Safety
Be cautious when walking in busy areas; always use crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
Traffic
Portland traffic is notoriously bad; use public transit whenever possible to avoid the stress of driving.