Where Muhammad Ali Landed His Helicopter, Portland's Most Historic Estate Awaits Its Next Chapter

There are homes that simply house a life, and then there are estates that hold history. The Merlo Estate — set behind a gated entrance on eight breathtaking private acres in Portland's prestigious Southwest Hills — is unmistakably the latter.

Built in 1939, this stately 9,816 square foot residence was home to some of Portland's most influential civic, business, and philanthropic leaders, men and women whose legacies helped shape the city into what it is today. And on at least one legendary occasion, the estate's grounds served as a landing pad for none other than Muhammad Ali, who arrived — as one might expect of The Greatest — by helicopter.

Now, for the first time in a generation, the Merlo Estate is available. Offered at $4,500,000, it represents one of the most significant residential opportunities to come to market in Portland in years.

A Setting Unlike Any Other

Located in unincorporated Multnomah County, the estate is as private as it is spectacular. Three acres of working vineyard sweep across the grounds, offering views that shift with the seasons in the way only the Pacific Northwest can deliver. A saltwater pool and adjacent hot tub, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, a lighted tennis court, and a bocce ball court complete an outdoor environment that was purpose-built for gathering, entertaining, and living well.

The home's architecture reflects a refined Pacific Northwest sensibility — stucco exterior, copper accents, painted shutters, and a striking arched entryway that signals the craftsmanship within. Inside, custom millwork designed specifically for the Merlo family anchors generous, light-filled rooms that have been the backdrop for decades of Portland history.

Designed for Elegant Entertaining

The main floor unfolds with intention. Large formal living and dining spaces capture sweeping views of the pool and vineyards below. A spacious sitting room just off the kitchen, dressed floor-to-ceiling in glass, dissolves the line between indoors and out. The main living room opens directly onto an expansive patio — a seamless transition from interior warmth to the natural grandeur of the surrounding landscape.

The primary suite is a true retreat: fireplace, dual bathrooms, and the kind of quiet that eight private acres can actually deliver.

Amenities at Every Turn

Downstairs, a sauna, hot tub, and private wine storage lend the lower level a resort-like feel. A three-car attached garage and a 1,070 square foot outbuilding offer flexibility for events, storage, a studio, or whatever the next chapter calls for.

A Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity

Properties like the Merlo Estate don't come to market often. The combination of scale, privacy, historic provenance, and resort-caliber amenities within Portland city limits is genuinely rare — the kind of offering that defines a career in real estate, let alone a life.

Whether you arrive by car, or follow in the footsteps of a legend and drop in from above, the Merlo Estate is ready to begin its next great chapter.

2732 SW Scholls Ferry Rd, Portland, OR 97221 | 6 Bed | 9 Bath | 9,816 SF | 8 Private Acres | Offered at $4,500,000

See the listing HERE.