Portland’s Giant Pinecone Unveiled in Unexpected Location, Stumptown’s Quirky Charm Lives OnPortland’s Giant Pinecone Unveiled in Unexpected Location, Stumptown’s Quirky Charm Lives On In the heart of Portland, Oregon, known as “Stumptown” for its once-abundant timber industry, a towering metal pinecone has emerged, adding another layer to the city’s eccentric urban landscape. Unveiled with great fanfare, the giant pinecone, standing at an impressive 23 feet tall and weighing over 1 ton, has become an instant Instagram sensation. However, its unexpected location is what has sparked the most intrigue. Perched atop the roof of the Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront hotel, the pinecone overlooks the Willamette River, providing guests and passersby with a unique and whimsical view. The hotel’s general manager, Andrew Nelson, explained the unconventional choice: “We wanted to create a conversation piece and a landmark for our guests and the community. The pinecone is a nod to Portland’s timber history and its reputation for embracing the quirky.” The pinecone is the brainchild of local artist Jim Dine, who is known for his explorations of everyday objects. Crafted from Cor-Ten steel, it is designed to develop a deep, rusty patina over time, mirroring the weathering of the natural timber that once dotted the city. The installation has been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised its artistic merit and playful nature, while others have questioned its placement on a hotel roof. Regardless of the opinions, the pinecone has undoubtedly become a talking point and a testament to Portland’s unique character. As the sun sets, the pinecone transforms into an ethereal beacon, its rusty surface reflecting the warm hues of the sky. It serves as a reminder of Stumptown’s enduring legacy and the city’s ongoing embrace of the unexpected. And so, the giant pinecone stands tall over the Willamette River, a testament to Portland’s enduring spirit of whimsy and innovation. Whether it’s embraced as a beloved landmark or a quirky curiosity, it has certainly solidified Stumptown’s reputation as a city that celebrates the unconventional.