The Rose City has so many wonderful parks. Portland is green (in more ways than one), and her many parks are a testament to that love of nature and sustainability. Whatever your outdoor activity, you can find a park in Portland that will accommodate you. I can’t think of another U.S. city of its size with so many parks to choose from. To list them all here would be a very long post! So I’ll give you the best.
Laurelhurst Park
It has a lovely pond with ducks, a trail for strolling, and a basketball court. Located Southeast Portland along SE 39th St (or Cesar Chavez to the locals) its also a wonderful place to bring your pup.
Pier Park
Here there is free disc golf and big trees! Located in north Portland, it’s possible to pretend (just for a moment) that you are in the Redwood Forest. While these aren’t Redwood trees, they are just as tall and magnificent, enveloping you as you walk down the path. Bring a lunch and take advantage of several picnic tables scattered throughout.
Cathedral Park
Featured in many TV shows and movies. (Think Grimm) Located under the gorgeous St. Johns bridge in the north Portland neighborhood of the same name. They have a few happenings in the summer months, like this one below.
Tom McCall Waterfront Park
This park hosts everything: from joggers to outdoor concerts to festivals of all kinds. It’s where the city comes to party in the summer and then comes to sit on the many benches overlooking the Willamette River in the winter. Ships from all over come here to dock for a week during the Rose Festival in the summer.
Peninsula Park
This lovely park has an expansive rose garden, a fantastic fountain and a covered picnic area. We saw at least three different wedding parties taking pictures the day we were there.
Washington Park
Probably the most diverse park in the city, featuring the Portland Zoo, a test rose garden, Japanese garden, arboretum, children’s museum, an archery range and tennis courts. Oh, and lots of walking trails! Located in the west hills of Portland, along Hwy 26.
Forest Park
This park is HUGE. It’s one of the largest urban parks in the nation. Miles and miles of trails, and acres of untamed forest area. This park is so big you’ll forget you’re in still in Portland.
Kelly Point Park
Located in North Portland there are paved trails and picnic areas with great views of where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers converge. Dogs are most welcome here (on a leash). They even have a tiny beach area where you can bring a lunch, a towel, and spend a relaxing afternoon watching the scenery on the water go by.
Mill Ends Park
I just have to include this one. It’s the smallest park in the world. Located on a busy downtown street, no less, so use caution when visiting. Often people will come to decorate it for the latest holiday or local happening.
