Peninsula Park

A Step Back in Time

Situated in North Portland's Piedmont neighborhood, Peninsula Park spans 16.27 acres of history-rich grounds. Before becoming one of Portland's earliest city parks in 1909, this spot had a colorful past as a roadhouse and racetrack. Talk about a transformation!

Roses That Take Your Breath Away

The centerpiece of the park is the historic sunken rose garden. Designed in 1912 by Emanuel Mische in the style of a formal French parterre, this two-acre floral space has a distinctly European character. With roughly 5,000 rose plants representing about 60 varieties arranged in perfect symmetry around a central fountain, it's quite impressive.

As Portland's first public rose garden, this space helped shape the city's rose culture in the early 20th century. If you visit between May and October, you're in for a treat - the roses burst into full bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. It's a nice spot to slow down and enjoy a peaceful moment.

Architecture That Tells Stories

The park houses Portland's first community center, a 1913 Italian villa-style building that still stands proud today. Overlooking the rose garden is a charming octagonal bandstand or gazebo that's earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places.

During summer evenings, the gazebo comes alive with the rhythmic beats of a drum circle that gathers on Wednesdays. The historic central fountain isn't just pretty - it's also a favorite spot for kids to splash around and cool off when temperatures rise. With vintage street lamps and intricate brick walkways throughout, you might feel like you've stepped through a portal to the early 1900s.

Something for Everyone

Beyond its historical charm, Peninsula Park offers plenty of ways to stay active. There's a seasonal outdoor swimming pool where local kids can take swimming lessons, tennis courts for those friendly matches, basketball courts for pickup games, and baseball fields for weekend warriors.

If you're looking for something a bit different, try your hand at the horseshoe pits or get your heart rate up on the exercise equipment scattered around the grounds.

Families will appreciate the thoughtfully designed playgrounds - one for the little ones and another for older kids. On scorching summer days, the splash pad becomes prime real estate for cooling off, while the covered picnic areas provide perfect spots for birthday celebrations or family gatherings.

A Peaceful Retreat

The walking path that circles the park offers a gentle stroll under the shade of mature trees - a welcome relief during Portland's warmer months. Unlike some of the city's hillier parks, the flat terrain here makes it accessible for everyone, regardless of mobility concerns.

Sprawling green lawns invite you to spread out a blanket for an impromptu picnic or a game of frisbee. Around the park, especially in the rose garden, you'll discover benches where you can sit back and take in the scenery.

Where Community Happens

Situated at the end of North Rosa Parks Way, Peninsula Park hosts a variety of events including weddings, cultural festivals, and outdoor concerts.

In recent years, the park has also been used for social justice events and protests. While it has a neighborhood feel, visitors from all areas are welcome.