Tom McCall Waterfront Park
With its namesake from Governor Tom McCall, this popular Portland park is situated along the Willamette River and serves the city, as well as the governor, did himself! This 36-acre park was created when the city saw the need for green space and riverwalk and was opened in 1978 after the removal of Harbor Drive along the river. This spot is great for walking, biking, skateboarding, skating, picnicking, and playing. Your group will find paved walkways, grassy areas, and even a 4.3-mile hike through the park and Tilikum Crossing. Enjoy the many different parts of the park, including the Esplanade, the Bowl, Salmon Street Springs, the John Yeon Building, and the Central Lawn. This park was once voted one of the top ten greatest U.S. public places by the American Planning Association!
At this public gathering site, your group will have the opportunity to see the Battleship Oregon Memorial, a 1956 dedicated attraction that honors the 1893 ship nicknamed the "bulldog of the United States Navy." The park also holds a time capsule buried on July 4th, 1976, with an intention of opening it in 2076. See firsthand the somber Japanese American Historical Plaza, the memorial created in 1990 that honors all those involved in the tragic WWII internment camps. Before you go you will have to get a photo with the famous Salmon Street Springs, the fountain containing over 185 water jets from misters and bollards to wedding cake blasters, a water wonder that recycles 4,924 gallons of water per minute. Be sure to check if there are any of the many yearly festivals happening here, from the popular Cinco de Mayo or Blues Festival to the Oregon Brewers or Bite of Oregon festivals!
