1. Laurelhurst Park
Blocks away from Electric Castle’s Wunderland and sports bars is Laurelhurst Park, located in the popular Belmont District. You can enjoy the view of a mini lake, wide open fields and the shade from the lush trees surrounding it, all while barbecuing with family and friends. Other amenities include a picnic area, play area, accessible restrooms, basketball court, dog off-leash area, horseshoe pits, reservable picnic site, picnic tables, playground, soccer field, tennis backboard, tennis court and volleyball court.
Transportation: Bus 15 from downtown toward Gateway TC. Get off at Southeast Belmont Street and 37th Avenue and walk five blocks up 37th Avenue.
2. Irving Park
A 20-minute bus ride can take you to Irving Park, a small but nevertheless barbecue-friendly park that even includes a mini water park for kids. Both adults and children can enjoy this outdoor space, with amenities including accessible restroom, baseball field, basketball court, dog off-leash area, horseshoe pit, reservable picnic sites, picnic tables, playground, soccer field, softball field, tennis backboard, tennis court and volleyball court.
Transportation (from PSU): Take the 6 bus toward Jantzen Beach, get off at Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard & Fargo Street. Turn right on Fargo Street and Irving Park is a block away.
3. Westmoreland City Park
With only one MAX ride away, Westmoreland City Park is an easy getaway from the city. Nestled in the southeast neighborhood, this park has a mini lake and several creeks, a perfect view to set up your barbecue. Other amenities include accessible restrooms, a baseball field, basketball court, football field, reservable picnic site, picnic tables, playground, soccer field, softball field and tennis court. There are also several trails throughout, a perfect stroll after some tasty barbecue. 🙂
Transportation (from PSU): Take the MAX Orange Line to Southeast Tacoma/Johnson Creek MAX Station, walk about 10 minutes up Southeast 24th Avenue.
4. Overlook Park
Want to enjoy a beautiful view of the city while eating your delicious (vegan) hot dog? Check out Overlook Park in North Portland. This park provides a scenic view of the city skyline along the Willamette River and has a wide open field perfect for picnics and barbecues. Additional amenities include accessible restroom, baseball field, basketball court, off-leash dog area, picnic shelter, reserevable picnic site, picnic tables, playground, soccer field, softball field, track and volleyball court.
Transportation: Take the MAX Yellow Line to the Overlook Park MAX Station and walk a block left down North Fremont Street.
5. Peninsula Park
Want enjoy a rose garden, barbecue and splash pad all in one location? Head over to Peninsula Park for your next picnic or barbecue. It has a historical touch to it, with a 100-year-old fountain and much of the same infrastructure remains since it was completed in 1913. Amenities include picnic area, accessible restroom, basketball court, horseshoe pits, reservable picnic tables, playground, plaza, soccer field, softball field, splash pad and tennis court.
Transportation: Take the 4 bus from West Burnside and Sixth Street toward St. Johns. Get off at North Albina Avenue & Holman Street and you’re there!
