Ankeny Plaza used to be the city center of Portland long before the Pioneer Place existed. It was the perfect picture of a bustling economy and local culture. Established on Vine Street and Block 35, present day Ankeny Plaza holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

It was renovated in the 80’s along with the establishment of the MAX rail system. Close attention to detail was used, thus the use of authentic wrought iron and other historic building pieces to preserve the history while restoring the Ankeny Plaza’s past grandeur.

The Ankeny Plaza is also home to one of the best fountains in the United States, the Skidmore Fountain. This fountain, created in 1888 is also the oldest public art found in Portland.