Clinton Park

Clinton Park Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Clinton Park’s History and Cultural Significance

Nestled in Southeast Portland’s vibrant Division/Clinton neighborhood, Clinton Park is a celebrated community green space that intertwines natural beauty, local history, and inclusive recreation. Spanning just over 12 acres, the park serves families, outdoor enthusiasts, and cultural explorers with amenities ranging from modern playgrounds and sports courts to community gardens and public art installations. The park was named after Rev. Clinton Kelly, a pioneer minister who played a pivotal role in Portland’s early development, and today, Clinton Park stands as a living tribute to the city’s heritage and the resilience of its community.

Open daily from dawn until dusk, Clinton Park welcomes visitors with free admission and a commitment to accessibility and sustainability. Wheelchair-accessible paths, inclusive playground equipment, and green initiatives ensure everyone can enjoy its offerings. Seasonal events like outdoor movie nights and fitness classes enliven the park, while proximity to public transit and bike lanes encourages eco-friendly travel. Whether you seek a reflective stroll, family fun, or a gateway to Portland’s diverse culture, Clinton Park is an accessible urban oasis. For up-to-date details on hours, events, and amenities, consult the official Portland Parks & Recreation website.

Welcome to Clinton Park: Portland’s Community Green Space
Park Layout and General Atmosphere
Visiting Hours and Admission
Playground and Family Facilities
Sports and Recreation Amenities
Community Garden
Mural Wall and Public Art
Historic Fountain
Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Seasonal Highlights and Community Events
Safety and Emergency Features
Proximity to Portland Historical Sites and Neighborhood Attractions
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Highlights
Explore More and Stay Connected

Welcome to Clinton Park: Portland’s Community Green Space

Located in the South Tabor neighborhood, Clinton Park’s 12.14 acres provide a blend of recreational amenities, natural landscapes, and cultural features. The park is a popular destination for individuals, families, and visitors eager to experience Portland’s outdoor spaces and community spirit.

Park Layout and General Atmosphere

Clinton Park’s design prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity with wide paths, open lawns, and a friendly atmosphere. Its border along Clinton Street, named for Rev. Clinton Kelly, roots the park in Portland’s early history and cultural fabric.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Clinton Park is open year-round, from dawn until dusk. Admission is free, and no tickets are required—making it perfect for both spontaneous visits and planned outings.

Playground and Family Facilities

The park’s modern playground caters to children of all ages and abilities, with accessible swings, slides, and climbing structures. Caregivers can relax on nearby benches and shaded areas. Expansive lawn spaces and picnic tables make Clinton Park ideal for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or relaxing afternoons.

Sports and Recreation Amenities

Basketball Court: A full-sized, well-maintained court suitable for casual games and organized play.
Open Fields: Grassy spaces accommodate soccer, frisbee, kite-flying, and informal sports.
Walking Paths: Paved and natural-surface trails offer scenic routes for walking, jogging, and accessible recreation.

Community Garden

Managed by local volunteers, the community garden is a hub for sustainable gardening education and hands-on participation. Seasonal plot rentals, workshops, and volunteer days foster community engagement and environmental stewardship.

Mural Wall and Public Art

Dynamic murals by Portland artists showcase themes of nature, unity, and local culture. The ever-changing wall is both a public art centerpiece and a favorite photo spot.

Historic Fountain

Dating to the early 1900s, the restored fountain offers a tranquil setting and a tangible link to Portland’s past, adding historic charm to the park experience.

Accessibility and Visitor Comfort

Clinton Park is fully ADA-compliant, with paved pathways, accessible playground features, and restrooms. Visitors can reach the park by car, bike, or public transit; ample street parking and bike racks support multiple modes of access. Drinking fountains and shaded seating areas enhance comfort, especially during warmer months.

Seasonal Highlights and Community Events

Summer (June–August) brings the park to life with community events like outdoor movie nights, music performances, fitness classes, and gardening workshops. Many events are free and open to all, supporting Clinton Park’s inclusive ethos.

Safety and Emergency Features

As a designated Basic Earthquake Emergency Communication Node (BEECN), Clinton Park is equipped for emergency communication during major earthquakes, reinforcing its role as a neighborhood resource.

Proximity to Portland Historical Sites and Neighborhood Attractions

Situated in the Division/Clinton district, Clinton Park is steps away from Southeast Portland’s eclectic eateries, bakeries, and boutiques. Its central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring nearby historic landmarks and cultural attractions.

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Summer is ideal, but the park is enjoyable year-round.
What to Bring: Picnic supplies, sports equipment, sunscreen, and water.
Getting There: Accessible by car, bike, and public transit. Parking is available, but biking or walking is encouraged.
Accessibility: Facilities are designed for visitors with mobility needs.
Etiquette: Respect garden plots and art, keep dogs leashed, and clean up after pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Clinton Park’s visiting hours?
Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Is there an admission fee?
No, the park is free and open to the public.
Is parking available?
Yes, nearby street parking is available.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome.
Is the park accessible?
Yes, with paved paths and accessible facilities.

Visual Highlights

Visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms in the community garden, colorful rotating murals, and the historic fountain as a picturesque centerpiece. Online resources often feature images with descriptive alt text for accessibility, such as, “Children playing on Clinton Park’s inclusive playground,” or “Community garden plots in bloom at Clinton Park.”

Explore More and Stay Connected

Check the official Portland Parks & Recreation page for current events and updates. For guided tours and additional content, consider the Audiala app. Discover more Portland parks and cultural sites to enrich your visit.

Getting to Clinton Park: Transportation and Accessibility

Clinton Park is accessible via TriMet bus routes serving the Division and Clinton areas. Cyclists benefit from dedicated bike lanes leading to the park, while ample street parking is available for drivers. The park is ADA-compliant, offering wheelchair-accessible paths and restrooms. For translation or auxiliary aid services, contact the PP&R Customer Service Center.

Recreational Facilities and Activities

Playground: Shaded, accessible, and designed for all ages.
Sports Fields: Open grassy areas for soccer, frisbee, and more; often used by local leagues.
Picnic Areas: Picnic tables and benches, some reservable via the PP&R reservation system.
Walking Paths: Paved and unpaved trails for walking, jogging, and exploring with pets.

Seasonal Programs and Community Events

Clinton Park participates in Portland’s Summer Free For All program, offering:

Fitness Classes: Yoga, Zumba, and more, often outdoors.
Children’s Camps: Nature-themed day camps with adaptive options.
Family Events: Free concerts, movie nights, and performances; check the Summer Activity Guide for schedules.

Amenities and Visitor Services

Clean, accessible restrooms (open during park hours)
Drinking fountains
Shaded seating and picnic spots
Leashed dogs welcome; waste stations provided
Clearly marked compost, recycling, and waste bins

Safety and Park Policies

Park staff conduct regular patrols to maintain safety. Follow all posted rules, including leash laws and group gathering guidelines. For emergencies, call 9-1-1; for non-emergencies, dial 3-1-1 (info). Fireworks are prohibited.

Reservations and Event Planning

Reserve picnic areas or open spaces for private gatherings via the online reservation system. Larger events may require permits; staff assistance is available through the PP&R Customer Service Center.

Dining and Nearby Attractions

Pack your own food or visit local eateries in the Division-Clinton neighborhood, renowned for gourmet groceries and cafes (picnic guide). Explore Portland’s wider network of parks and attractions (Travel Portland).

Weather and Seasonal Advice

Portland summers (June–September) are warm and popular, with temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (21°C–29°C). Prepare for the weather with sun protection or rain gear, and check for event schedule changes due to inclement conditions at the PP&R website or by calling 503-823-2533.

Multilingual Support

Translation and interpretation services are available in multiple languages. Request assistance through the PP&R Customer Service Center or by calling 503-823-4000. For maps and guides, the Portland Visitor Center provides free resources.

Sustainability and Community Engagement

Clinton Park supports Portland’s sustainability goals with composting, recycling, and urban orchard care. Community volunteers take part in park maintenance and restoration events (PP&R news).

Things to Do Near Clinton Park

Culinary Delights: Enjoy nearby restaurants like Magna Kusina (Filipino), Kati Portland (vegetarian Thai), and Oma’s Hideaway (Southeast Asian fusion). For dessert, try Lauretta Jean’s pies, Fifty Licks ice cream, or Stumptown Coffee Roasters.
Arts and Shopping: Browse local art supply stores, vintage shops, boutiques, and record stores along Hawthorne Boulevard and Belmont Street.
Nearby Parks: Visit Mt. Tabor Park’s volcanic cinder cone trails, the Jade District for Asian American culture, or Sellwood-Moreland for antiques and river views.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Transportation: Multiple TriMet bus lines serve the area; biking and walking are encouraged.
Weather: Pack for variable weather year-round.
Community Values: Support local businesses and sustainability efforts.
Safety: Clinton Park is family-friendly and safe; remain aware after dusk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Clinton Park’s hours?
A: Open daily from dawn to dusk (approx. 5:00 AM–10:00 PM).

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, general entry is free.

Q: How do I reserve a picnic area?
A: Reserve online via the Portland Parks & Recreation reservation system.

Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: Yes, leashed dogs are welcome.

Q: Is Clinton Park accessible?
A: Yes, with ADA-compliant amenities.

Q: Which public transportation lines serve Clinton Park?
A: Multiple TriMet bus routes; check TriMet’s site for current information.

Visual Highlights

Photos of the playground, mural wall, blooming gardens, and historic fountain can be found online, often with descriptive alt text for accessibility.

Plan Your Visit

Embrace the community spirit, history, and natural beauty of Clinton Park—an essential stop in Southeast Portland. For event updates and personalized guides, download the Audiala app and follow Portland Parks & Recreation on social media.

Summary and Recommendations

Clinton Park embodies Portland’s values of inclusion, sustainability, and community engagement. Its accessible facilities, historic features, and vibrant programming ensure visitors of all ages and abilities find something to enjoy. The park’s role as a neighborhood resource extends beyond leisure, serving as an emergency communication node and a hub for volunteer stewardship. To fully experience Clinton Park and its surrounding cultural attractions, check the latest updates on the Portland Parks & Recreation website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for guided experiences. Your visit helps support the city’s goals for resilience and sustainability.

References

Clinton Park Portland Visiting Hours, Attractions, and Visitor Information, 2024, Portland Parks & Recreation (https://www.portland.gov/parks/clinton-park)
Clinton Park Portland: Visiting Hours, Accessibility, Amenities, and Events Guide, 2024, Portland Parks & Recreation (https://www.portland.gov/parks/summer)
Clinton Park Visiting Hours, History, and Things to Do in Southeast Portland, 2024, Local Community Resources