Portland’s identity is deeply rooted in its natural surroundings. Between the bridges, coffee shops, and vibrant neighborhoods lies a collection of green spaces that offer a much-needed escape from the urban rhythm. From dense forests to sprawling meadows, the city’s park system is one of the most comprehensive in the nation.
For locals and visitors alike, finding the right outdoor space can shape the entire experience of the city. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike, a quiet picnic spot, or a place for the kids to burn off energy, Portland delivers with remarkable variety. The climate keeps these spaces lush and green nearly year-round.
This guide explores the best parks Portland has to offer. Each entry provides a distinct reason to visit, from iconic viewpoints to hidden neighborhood gems. You will discover spaces that highlight the region’s volcanic geography, old-growth forests, and commitment to preserving public land.
Understanding what makes each park unique will help you plan a better itinerary. We have considered accessibility, activities, and scenic value to ensure there is something for every type of traveler. No matter the season, these outdoor destinations represent the heart of the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
To experience Portland authentically, you must step outside. The city’s culture is not confined to its buildings; it thrives under the canopy of Douglas firs and along the banks of the Willamette River. Let this list serve as your roadmap to the natural beauty that defines the area.
Here are the 15 best parks in Portland, chosen for their beauty, amenities, and unique local character.
Washington Park
| Address | 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 319-0999 |
Washington Park is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Portland. The trails are absolutely stunning, surrounded by vibrant rhododendron flowers, lush greenery, and breathtaking tall forest trees that make you feel completely immersed in nature. Every path feels refreshing and scenic, with fresh air, peaceful surroundings, and picture-perfect views everywhere you walk. The park is incredibly well maintained and perfect for relaxing, hiking, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature. A truly magical escape in the heart of the city.
Washington Park is a beautiful place to spend the day with family. 🌲🌸 Great walking trails, gardens, playgrounds, and plenty of beautiful scenery. A wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature in Portland! Highly recommended. 😊
It's really fun out there!!! I would love to walk on a trail just in time!!! It's because it's beautiful out there in my opinion!! I definitely saw a statue and garden!! It also have a playground!! it makes me feel fresh out there, especially with those flowers!!
The Oregon zoo was such a cool experience! The park is definitely beautiful and green! So many animals to see and learn about. The otters were cute and the lions😍!! Spent around 2 hours in the zoo. Just an FYI the zoo is cashless 🫤 but the gift shop accepts cash! Must go to the zoo if in the area
Love the Zoo! Took my grandson (1.5years old) arrived in the morning around 9am. Not crowded and animals were out getting breakfast ❤️
The Train was the highlight of our trip! Choo Choo 🚂
Mt. Tabor Park
| Address | SE 60th Ave &, SE Salmon St, Portland, OR 97215 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 823-7529 |
Stunning park. Visited for sunset just walking around a bit. Parked at the top parking lot for the shortest walk to the Mount Tabor summit (survey marker here for peakbaggers)!
Several benches with beautiful views. Towering trees. Lots of trails winding through but only stayed on the paved part this time.
No issues finding parking. There were several spots open when we arrived to the top lot around 8pm on a Sunday. Free and worth the visit!
Very beautiful volcanic park, great for bird watching, scenic views, a huge dog park and community garden. Over the course of an hour we saw hummingbirds, sparrow, finches, and ducks on the reservoir. This park is very clean and well maintained and the patrons here seem to really respect the space. Very woodsy but also feels safe for a solo jog, hike, or bike ride. Clean restrooms are available but not abundant.
Mt Tabor is a local fave I've been hanging around since I was a teenager. Went to the Wednesday evening dance party and it was a blast hundreds of people dancing and cutting loose. My kid enjoyed the generous bubble makers. And we got to help by donating to some kids giving ICE hell in Tacoma. Definitely worth the traffic. We arrived early 8/26/26 and got great parking make sure to have the nose of your car pointing out as it gets busy when everyone is departing.
Great park.
Love coming here on Wednesday’s for Tabor Dance. It’s a bit of a trek up into it from most directions- all the directions I’ve tried, unsure how many entrances there are. There is a RR by the amphitheater. Basketball court. Plenty of trails paved and unpaved.
Wednesdays are “no cars allowed in the park” days.
Parking can be a bit rough on those days.
I’ve only ever been on Wednesdays, so I’m unsure what the parking is like any other time. I haven’t actually seen any parking areas.
My first visit to this forest paradise hidden in the concrete jungle of Portland was filled with amazement and joy! The park is a mix of paved, gravel and dirt trails, wonderfully planted with proper flora and fauna for the PNW.
Peace flowed from every corner, hidden and viewable. A park where ALL are welcome and coexist in a friendly forest world. I saw cyclists (mtn & racing & ebikes), runners, picnic-ers, families with children, parents with canine fur babies, silent disco fitness class and my troupe of Wisebody Walkabouts.
T'was an incredibly moving couple of hours during which I merely dipped my toe in a walkabout and I cannot wait to return.
This is a place to exhale stress and inhale the beauty and peace that is Mt. Tabor Park.
Peninsula Park
| Address | 700 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland, OR 97217 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (503) 823-2525 |
Absolutely beautiful. Well maintained. Nice stroll path through and around the garden. Very pretty for pictures, picnics, relaxing. The roses have a nice fragrance especially when there is a lite breeze.
Wow. What a gorgeous rose garden! The smell was incredible. The roses were amazing. There were volunteers tending to the flowers who were very friendly and informative.
Walked my pup around the rose garden today. Beautiful! My only issues were some people sprawled across the lawn pathways so you couldn't pass. And couldn't locate a trash can near the garden to dispose of my dog poo bag.
Excellent neighborhood park that truly gets used by the locals.
I visit this park, and several other Portland parks and gardens, every spring and Peninsula Park is a favorite. The draw for me? The rose garden!
It feels a little like stepping back in time to a version of Portland that you don't see as often today.
The history of the garden (the first public Rose Garden in Portland), the design, and the community feeling on a busy Saturday afternoon make it a must!
Parking is typically streetside, and not metered, so you may have to walk a little but the neighborhood feels VERY safe and walkable.
There’s a beautiful water fountain, a rose garden, and nice brick pathways. On top, there’s a gazebo with an open green grassy lawn and large trees. There’s also a play area for kids. The buildings’ architecture is nice, with more brick construction.
Forest Park
| Address | Portland, OR 97231 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 823-4492 |
Last week I started my hike from the trailhead off of Skyline Boulevard. The trail is well maintained, peaceful and it feels clean and safe. Frankly, the health of the forest is spectacular. It is a wonderful place to find your center, fill your lungs with fresh air and appreciate the beauty that rages beneath our noses when we're not noticing it.
The trail is steep in some places. It wasn't crowded with people, but there was a runner and a dog walker. I was happy that I had brought my trekking poles to help with my stability on the ascents and descents.
Close to everything yet feels so remote.
Trails for hiking and running for alll levels.
Plenty of parking. Many links between trails to create the trail of your liking.
🦵🏃🏃♀️⛰️
Place:
*Many trails here so you feel secluded though it is a very popular hiking area.
*Not an exaggeration, this is an enchanting beautiful green forest.
*Local and touristic.
Pet:
*Dog friendly.
*Dogs must be in leash.
*Dogs will love this place!
Pros:
*Cooling temperature all year around.
*Easy to find parking (came at 6:30pm on a Sunday & 6pm on weekdays).
*Running/jogging friendly place.
Cons:
*No trash bins.
*Visible amount of poop bags.
*Some dead end trails.
Tips:
*Check out the classy, tasteful & unique line of houses around Forest Park.
*Know there are no bins; if you bring your dog you will have to carry the poop bag throughout the hike or take it with you.
*2 loop trails doable for couple hrs - see photo.
Largest urban park in the US! Forest Park’s jewel is the Wildwood Trail marked by blue diamonds. All other trails branch from that.
Good for year-round hiking on well-maintained trails through old-growth forest. Highly recommend for a quick escape from the city to a mossy wonderland.
Amazing trails and beautiful scenery. Trails are very long, but have nice paths(other than mud, which is natural) and decent amount of signs to be able to tell where you are going and what trail you want to go on. Signs are scattered at important intersections and are fairly easy to read.
Laurelhurst Park
| Address | SE Cesar E Chavez Blvd & Stark St, Portland, OR 97214 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | (503) 823-2525 |
Laurelhurst is my one true love. From the sitting ducks to the angry geese (sometimes) this park is so wonderful to decompress, explore, see what events are happening! The dog park is HUGE and there are always such beautiful doggies there! Everyone is always kind, welcoming, friendly! Such a lively place with lots of wonderful nature and mini trails! Shops nearby and crosswalks galore!
Absolutely stunning. I work this into my morning jog at least once a week and I always leave feeling a little lighter. Redwoods, a giant sequoia, a duck pond, yoga on the lawn, you name it.
Gorgeous park.with beautiful mature trees. Beautiful neighborhood. Went to a summer series comedy show there. Great crowd.
I'm rating this park two stars only on the tennis courts. There was debris all over the courts and I noticed that someone was there to lock the bathroom door but maintenance forgot to blow off the courts. The artificial surface doesn't bounce well.. the worst tennis courts in Portland Parks.
Beautiful park! A great variety of trees including redwoods, the duck pond is very nice, it’s huge and there is a lot to see.
Tom McCall Waterfront Park
| Address | 98 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (503) 823-7529 |
Nice. The park is spacious, making it a fantastic spot for a relaxing walk, a jog, or just sitting on the grass to people-watch and take in the river views. It feels like the vibrant heartbeat of the city, especially with the pathways bustling with locals and visitors alike. Whether you want to catch a beautiful sunset over the water, enjoy a peaceful morning stroll, or simply escape the urban bustle for a moment, this park is a must-visit.
A long, narrow park that runs along the Willamette River’s west bank at the edge of downtown Portland, this park makes for an excellent place to jog, bike, walk your dog, or enjoy a beautiful sunrise. There are a variety of public art installations throughout the park, and I imagine that if I had come in the spring or fall I would be even more awestruck by its beauty. While you will likely see homeless people here, I was never bothered and what I’ve seen in the news and on social media prior to visiting made it seem like I would encounter many more issues than I did in a public park like this. Don’t let fear mongering keep you away from a beautiful park.
they have done alot to clean up this area. its not as crowded with homeless people and they have cleaned up the grass area for picnics. the cherry blossoms are beautiful at the end of march which makes it easy to stroll. once you get to the end you may keep going and walk the steel bridge which leads to the moda center area. its a great place to walk and catch up with friends . on weekends they have the Saturday Market once the winter is over. its busy during weekend so if you want a peaceful walk I say go during the week day
I walked along the waterfront and really enjoyed it. There are some homeless people around, but no one caused any trouble. It’s a must-visit when you’re in Portland, and I’m glad I took my time and walked the entire stretch.
This is a beautiful place to come for a walk. The loop is nice and many areas to relax along the way. Best earlier in the day when it's more peaceful! ✌🏽
Cathedral City Park
| Address | 6635 N Baltimore Ave, Portland, OR 97203 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (503) 823-7529 |
This is such a cool bridge! I was only in Portland for a night and seeing some friends who drove me here to see this amazing bridge. When in Portland, ensure you stop by and check out the gardens and the bridge! Amazing architecturally built, with beautiful spots for photos. Very pretty to visit at dusk as the sun is setting over the mountain.
Beautiful park, lots of space. Small dock where you can take a paddleboard or kayak down. swimming beachy area. Boat launch on one side. Big field area great for our events and family gatherings.
Beautiful park. Well landscaped. Dogs were enjoying chasing frisbees and each other. Lots of tables to read and soak up good weather. Noise from bridge traffic was noticeable at the top edge of the park.
Arguably, one of my most favorite and memorable places of the entire Portland trip. Beautiful, beautiful place to watch the sunsets. Such a gorgeous bridge!
One of my favorite Portland parks. It is a great place to bring your dog and a great place to explore. I recently went to the Tabor Dance Party here and had a great time.
Gabriel Park
| Address | SW 45th Ave & Vermont Street, Portland, OR 97219 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (503) 823-7529 |
Gabriel Park is an absolute gem, and every visit reminds me why it’s one of my favorite places in Portland. This park offers a rare balance of wide-open space and peaceful forested trails, making it feel both expansive and grounding at the same time.
One moment you’re walking across sunlit green lawns under a big blue sky, and the next you’re winding through tall trees, moss-covered trunks, and quiet paths that feel tucked away from the world.
The trails are well maintained and easy to navigate, whether you’re out for a gentle stroll, a longer walk, or simply looking for fresh air and calm. The wooded sections are especially beautiful—filtered sunlight, birdsong, and that unmistakable Pacific Northwest forest feeling that instantly slows you down and clears your head.
The open fields add a completely different but equally wonderful energy. There’s plenty of room to walk, relax, watch people enjoying the space, or just sit and take in how open and peaceful it feels. The park feels safe, welcoming, and well cared for, and it’s obvious that it’s valued by the surrounding community.
Gabriel Park isn’t flashy or overcrowded—it’s quietly wonderful. It offers a sense of space, calm, and connection to nature that’s hard to find, especially in a city setting. Whether you’re there for movement, reflection, or simply to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors, it delivers every single time. A true five-star park and one I’m always happy to return to.
Gabriel Park is awesome! On the northside there's a large (clean) playground with bathrooms with a large parking lot.
On the west side you'll find a skate park, tennis courts and a large dog park. With a medium parking lot.
There is a paved walking path connecting the north half of the park, but if you head south from the dog park and tennis courts the path transitions into a gorgeous forested area containing old growth trees that reminds me of the Tillamook Forest (near the coast).
Heading south from there will take you to a community garden, another dog park and some baseball fields. There is parking near those fields, but the parking lot down there is smaller than the others.
The park has many paths the criss-cross and loop back around with picnic tables and benches along the way. So you'll be able to customize your path, its length, and its physical intensity.
Last Note: The center and east of the park has rolling hills. Beautiful year round, but parts of it can be quite treacherous (icy) in the winter. Tread carefully! 😁
There is so much to do at this park and multiple parking spots and access points. Tennis courts, playground, bathrooms, basketball court, soccer field, skate park, dog park, trails, community garden, baseball diamond and more! Large rolling hills with expansive grassy areas for picnics and views. If you are looking for recreation, you can find it here. Beautiful day and evening.
I come here all the time with my dog. It’s one of my favorite parks in all of Portland (east and west side!). It offers many different sports options: tennis courts, pickle ball, a skate park, multiple baseball fields, an awesome kid’s play structure, and it’s next to the SW community center which is home to the best community pool in all of Portland (IMO!). There are paved paths and lots of paths in the woods for the warmer days and there’s a creek that runs through the park that my dog loves to lay down in. The two dog parks are great: wood chips in the winter dog park (open year round) and a large grassy dog park for the summer (opens Memorial Day weekend and not sure when it closes).
Great trails, well maintained by the Portland parks bureau folks. Lots of neighbors out with their dogs. A popular place even during the weekdays. So much to do here, trails are just the start. Eager to go back and see more of the park, the garden, the skate park, and tennis courts. I’ll be back.
Council Crest Park
| Address | 1120 SW Council Crest Dr, Portland, OR 97239 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (503) 823-7529 |
Best views in the city. Watch planes take off, gaze into the distance, look across the city and distant hills, choose one of many hikes, bring the dogs, have a picnic. Best time of day to visit is early. It can get crowded around sunset.
Views were breathtaking! We could see all the peaks on a clear day. There were plaques with a small amount of info to tell which peak was which. Beautiful walking trails too.
Great views of mount hood and the sw city but not a perfect view of horizons for sunrise/sunset and moon rise year round, especially summer. You can find a spot to glimpse them you’re willing to move away from the crest but the trees block the perfect views.
We were completely alone mid-day and could not have had a better experience. There are endless angles for photos and a unique structure as well. Beautiful views 360.
This park...while I had wanted to experience the hike up via the trail system, I ran out of time during my visit. Its a little oasis at the top of Portland. There are some beautiful trees and maintained flower beds to enjoy. And I bet on a clear day, either the sunrise or sunset would be spectacular.
Sellwood Park
| Address | SE 7th Ave &, SE Miller St, Portland, OR 97202 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 823-7529 |
Great park! Didn't do much exploring. Our family had field day there and had a ball. We were mainly near the baseball field and picnic tables. People around the area are really really kind and friendly.
This park has a nice combination of nature and activities for all ages. Plus lots of picnic tables & benches. It's also got a diverse terrain for walking and nice views of the city & west hills. Plus plenty of parking for those who don't walk here.
This is a really great park. They had concessions, parking, a baseball field, a pool house and rec center, picnic tables, and there was music playing in the park when I was there. They were at least 100 people there for different events. The trees are great and provide good shade. You can see the city and the river depending on where you are. The concessions area had free toys to borrow and free dog treats. A really excellent park
We enjoyed Sellwood park. We attended a picnic near the pool and activity courts. On street parking from SE Grand is convenient to this part of the park. I noticed they also had a good sized playground, horseshoe pit, soccer and ball fields. Next time I want to visit Sellwood riverfront park.
Great place and easy to get to in 10-15 minutes in your in Portland or close to it. Relaxing beaches to hang out, swimming on hot days and a giant dog park and grassy area if you don't want to go down to the water. One of my favorite spots close to home
Overlook Park
| Address | 1599 N Fremont St, Portland, OR 97227 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (503) 823-7529 |
Pretty cool place with lots to do for the kids only downside is homeless in the picnic shelter other than that it’s nice and close to the Moda Center
Beautiful relaxing looking park that is across N Interstate Ave. from Kaiser. it has two baseball fields, a soccer field a house looking structure with seating & bathrooms(although it looked as though the women's restroom is out of order), more seating throughout the park, a playground and a basketball court. The yellow Max passes this place as well, so you can get here from Downtown !
Overlook Park is where the city exhales. A small playground hums with the business of childhood. A wide green field waits patiently for a baseball game that may never start, or a frisbee that will sail too far. Up on the hill, the view stretches out just enough to remind you you’re part of something larger. Kids roll down laughing, gravity having its way. The rest of us just watch, remembering what that felt like.
Def Top 5 Best Portland City Parks .
The view, Amazing!
Do yourself a favor and walk Both the entire trail AROUND the park (find the secret views).
Then hike up the hill behind the baseball diamond for the best view in the park IMHO.
Bonus, find the nature trail hike (between the baseball diamond and the soccer field).
Then stroll through the neighborhood if your into classic, iconic older Portland homes.
The Entire neighborhood headed north is truly a gem.
Enjoy!
Second or third favorite park in Portland and possibly the one with the best views (Mt Tabor?). Nice park for dogs and they have a good off-leash area. Nice old stone pavilion and maybe the best tree in any park in Portland...I think it's an alder. They used to do the Organic Beer Fest here, but, sadly, it was discontinued around 2016.
Westmoreland Park
| Address | 7530 SE 22nd Ave, Portland, OR 97202 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (503) 823-2525 |
Fantastic park with an amazing 4 acre pond! A great place to take your Radio Controled boat. Weather you have a sail boat and enjoy the wonderful breeze throughout the day. If you prefer the electric powered boat of your choice Hall Pond located within Westmoreland Park is a great choice.
Nice, flat walkable park with lots of trees, a nature-inspired playground, plenty of tables and benches... plus a lovely creek with several walking bridges and abundant wildlife (mostly birds, squirrels & nutria).
Very pretty and peaceful!! Even had cute ducks come close to say hello look at me!!"
Fantastic park for families. Kids will love the nature play area and is also nice to walk the paths or sit and watch the ducks on the pond.
This park rules. Really well maintained baseball field. Some incredible trees. The play structures are really neat and there's a cool water/sand area that you'll want to plan for if you have younger kids. It's a really rad place to hang and the larger water features are well contained.
Pittock Acres Park Viewpoint
| Address | 3229 NW Pittock Dr, Portland, OR 97210 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 823-3623 |
We went to Portland on vacation. I picked this spot because it said it was top rated. What I experienced here was more then just a view, it was a masterpiece being painted into my eyes. It was majestic, like buildings towering the sky, and rainbows over the horizon. That, or I may just be high 😓. Anyways, this is a must see place. A MUST SEE!!!
Fantastic view over Portland. Worth the trip up for the panorama alone.
Had a fun spontaneous moment there too. Sat down to write some notes and two girls asked if I could take a photo of them. Ended up chatting for a while, turned out one of them had run a half marathon before, and the other had lived in Stockholm for a while because of her father’s job.
Gave them a few running tips since one of them wanted to start running longer distances. A nice unplanned encounter that made the visit even better.
Not far from the city. Well worth the visit. Best view in town. Skip the boring mansion tour of an old creaky floorboard house, no thanks. Or nerd out on it if that's your thing. The view and parking is free. Parking is free and legal in the side road gravel before the pay to park area. You’re welcome!
Went just before closing for a nice July sunset. Check out the photos, nice place to look over the city. Trees need to be trimmed to have better impact
Map drive directions a little off. To get to the viewpoint, one should pull into the parking lot and walk pass the house. It’s at the far end of the garden no fees to enter the garden.
Sellwood Riverfront Park
| Address | Southeast Spokane Street &, SE Oaks Park Way, Portland, OR 97202 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | — |
Amazing place for gathering with friends and family . We had a small family get together in the park a few weeks ago and it was so much fun, we even got a game of soccer going! After we saw people setting up for a silent disco super cool over all. A big plus as well the public restrooms were fully stocked and freshly hosed down!
Lots of space, with ample shade for family beach time. The park in general is acceptably clean and maintained. The downside...off leash dogs everywhere. The off leash area is only the large field near the parking lot however you'll find off leash dogs all over the beach and trails. They'll trample your picnic, poop on the beach, and bark at children, with no owner in sight. When the owners are around, they'll let their dogs splash and jump on young children, stating "they love kids"…the prevailing attitude is that this park is a “dog beach park”
Really cool park. We were in Portland to take my grandson to oaks park roller rink just down the road, but we were running early. So we decided to take a little walk here. It was dark, but the paths were lit nicely. If we lived nearby, I would be at this park all the time. It has really nice pathways that are lit up bright enough to see, but not too bright. It just has a nice vibe to it. We were there well past dark with two eleven year olds and I felt totally safe.
Super nice little park. The off leash area is decent sized for your pup. And then if you take a few steps down to the river dogs all up and down the beach.
I like this riverfront park a lot. Green areas, picnic table, beach, a lot of space but can be too crowded in summer.
Macleay Park
| Address | 2960 NW Upshur St, Portland, OR 97210 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 823-7529 |
We hiked up to the Pittock Mansion. It was truly a spectacular view. I would recommend it, it really is a fantastic hike.
The Lower Macleay trail head starts in a residential neighborhood. Limited parking.
This is a 140 acer park donated by Donald Macleay in 1897. The trail passes through deep ravines, huge trees and a trout habitat stream with multiple waterfalls. The Witch's castle or sometimes called the Stone House is a iconic landmark. If you proceed on the Wildwood trail 2.5 miles you come to the amazing Pittock Mansion built in 1914.
I love this forest absolutely beautiful. Forest Park is so expansive, so many different trails. I just wanted to go for a walk and along my walk I saw so many beautiful things. Mushrooms, people composting their pumpkins in the forest. I found decorative stones people painted along the journey. It was such a peaceful trails, the streams were all beautiful.
I left inspired as always.
I had an enchanted and magical experience as always 🌎🌳🌎🌳☺️
Great short hike. Kids wanted to see the “witch’s castle”. We parked at the top and hiked down the path. It’s not too steep but looks a little scary because of the big drop on the side. I wouldn’t go with kids if it was wet for fear of falling.
At the bottom the hike goes along a stream with some cool fallen trees bridging the gap.
I didn't get an opportunity to really hike this entire park. Great place to relax if you are a lover of trees. Hike is a not for the first beginner so start off at the ranger station and work your way through. Beautiful and quiet. Once you get to the trail the road is not heard and the sound of the wind coming through the leaves is heard with no distortion. Definitely will be back to do the whole trail. Peaceful place. Bring backpack with water is suggested.
Tips for Visiting Portland Parks
To make the most of your time in Portland’s green spaces, a little local knowledge goes a long way. The city’s weather, terrain, and popularity of certain spots require some preparation. Here are five essential tips to ensure your park visits are safe, enjoyable, and respectful of the environment.
1. Dress in layers and expect rain. Portland’s weather can change quickly, especially between October and May. Even if the morning is sunny, clouds can roll in by the afternoon. A waterproof shell and shoes with good tread will keep you comfortable on muddy trails.
2. Check for parking restrictions. Many popular parks, especially those near the Columbia River Gorge or downtown, have limited parking lots that fill up by 9:00 AM on weekends. Read posted signs carefully, as some neighborhoods require permits. Consider using public transit or ride-sharing to avoid the hassle.
3. Stay on designated trails. The lush greenery is fragile. Straying from marked paths damages native plants and contributes to erosion. It also increases your risk of encountering poison oak, which is common in the underbrush of many Portland parks.
4. Respect the "Leave No Trace" principle. Portlanders take pride in their clean public spaces. Always pack out what you pack in, including food scraps and dog waste bags. Many parks have limited trash receptacles, so carrying a small bag for your garbage is a good habit.
5. Visit during off-peak hours. If you want solitude or the perfect photo without crowds, go early on a weekday morning. Sunrise at the viewpoint parks is spectacular and quiet. Late evenings also offer a peaceful atmosphere, though you should check closing times to avoid being locked in.
The magic of Portland’s park system lies in its ability to make you forget you are in a major city. Whether you are standing beneath a canopy of ancient trees or watching the sunset paint Mount Hood pink, these spaces offer a reset for the mind and body. They are a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving nature for everyone.
Take your time exploring. While the famous viewpoints are worth the trip, the smaller neighborhood parks often provide the quietest moments of reflection. No matter which of these 15 parks you choose to visit first, you will quickly understand why outdoor life is so central to the Portland identity.
