O'Bryant Square park in Portland with trees, pathways, and surrounding buildings

Darcelle Xv Plaza

Darcelle XV Plaza Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Portland Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Darcelle XV Plaza, located at the core of downtown Portland, Oregon, is a dynamic public space commemorating the city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ history and honoring the legendary drag performer and advocate, Darcelle XV (Walter Cole). The plaza, formerly known as O’Bryant Square, was renamed in 2023 to celebrate Darcelle’s decades-long legacy as a performer, entrepreneur, and champion of queer rights. Today, the plaza stands as a symbol of Portland’s commitment to diversity, community, and artistic expression, offering a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike (NPS, Wikiwand).

This comprehensive guide details Darcelle XV Plaza’s history, visiting hours, ticketing policies, accessibility, signature features, and practical travel tips. Whether you are an explorer of historical sites, a supporter of LGBTQ+ culture, or simply searching for a unique Portland experience, Darcelle XV Plaza invites you to connect with a powerful piece of the city’s heritage.

O'Bryant Square urban park with trees and benches in Portland Oregon

O'Bryant Square plaque in Portland Oregon

Historical Background
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Signature Attractions
Events and Community Programming
Visitor Amenities and Practical Tips
Nearby Attractions
Safety, Security, and Accessibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action
Sources

Historical Background

Early Origins and Urban Renewal

Darcelle XV Plaza sits at the intersection of Southwest Park Avenue and Southwest Harvey Milk Street, on the site once known as O’Bryant Square—named for Hugh O’Bryant, Portland’s first mayor. Established in 1973 as part of urban renewal efforts, the square included a central fountain, the “Fountain to a Rose.” Over time, it became known for social challenges and safety concerns, leading to its closure in 2018 due to structural issues with the subterranean parking garage (Wikiwand).

The Legacy of Darcelle XV

Walter Cole, known as Darcelle XV, opened the Darcelle XV Showplace in 1967, creating a safe haven for drag performance and LGBTQ+ gathering during a period of widespread discrimination. The club’s first drag show in 1969 marked the beginning of a cultural revolution in Portland’s queer nightlife. Darcelle XV’s activism and philanthropy advanced LGBTQ+ rights, fostered inclusivity, and built community across generations (NPS, Building on History).

Darcelle XV was recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest performing drag queen in 2016, and the Showplace was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020 (NPS).

Transformation and Dedication

After Cole’s passing in 2023, the city dedicated the newly reimagined plaza as Darcelle XV Plaza. The redevelopment, scheduled for completion in 2025, incorporates stages, public art, gardens, and commemorations of LGBTQ+ heroes, establishing the site as both a memorial and a hub for ongoing cultural expression (Them, Willamette Week).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Darcelle XV Plaza is generally open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Hours may be extended during special events or adjusted for maintenance—visitors should check Portland Parks & Recreation for the latest updates.

Tickets and Admission

Admission to Darcelle XV Plaza is free. Special events, performances, or festivals may require tickets, available through local event platforms or the Darcelle XV Showplace website.

Accessibility

The plaza is fully wheelchair accessible, with wide, level pathways, accessible seating, and thoughtfully designed amenities for visitors of all abilities. Service animals are welcome, and the city continually seeks feedback for further accessibility improvements (Center for Public Interest Design).

Directions and Transportation

Located centrally in downtown Portland, the plaza is accessible via TriMet buses, the MAX Light Rail, and nearby parking garages. Walking and biking are encouraged due to limited parking and to promote sustainability.

Signature Attractions

Performance Stage and Event Space

A covered performance stage, sheltered by sail-cloth canopies, forms the plaza’s vibrant centerpiece. The stage hosts drag shows, concerts, and community events, celebrating Darcelle XV’s enduring artistic legacy (OregonLive, Travel Oregon).

Outdoor Chandelier

An outdoor chandelier, inspired by Darcelle’s theatrical flair and Queen Anne-style home, illuminates the plaza by night and serves as a popular photo spot (OregonLive).

Walk of Fame

The “walk of fame” honors LGBTQ+ heroes and milestones in Portland’s queer history, extending the narrative of the city’s Pink Triangle district and fostering a tangible link to community heritage (OregonLive).

Public Art and Memorials

Art installations, including plans for a Darcelle XV statue and glittered pavement with triangle motifs, serve as both memorial and celebration of queer culture (OregonLive).

Shade Structures, Gardens, and Off-Leash Dog Park

The plaza features shaded seating, landscaped gardens, and a small off-leash dog park—reflecting Portland’s inclusive, pet-friendly ethos (OregonLive; Portland Mercury).

Events and Community Programming

Darcelle XV Plaza is a center for LGBTQ+ and community events, including:

Drag performances and open-air shows
Annual Pride celebrations and Drag-A-Thon
Cultural festivals and advocacy gatherings

Event schedules are posted on Portland Parks & Recreation and through the Darcelle XV Showplace website. Temporary vendors and pop-up markets often accompany special events (Willamette Week).

Visitor Amenities and Practical Tips

Seating: Benches and movable chairs for small groups or solo visitors
Lighting & Power: Well-lit for evening events; electrical hookups support performances
Restrooms: Permanent facilities are planned; temporary facilities may be available during events
Food: No permanent food carts, but pop-up vendors appear during major events
Security: Six-foot-high perimeter fence locked nightly enhances safety (Portland Mercury)

Visitor Tips:

Check event schedules for special programming
Arrive early for major events to secure seating
Use public transportation when possible
Respect the space’s significance and the privacy of others, especially during performances or sensitive events

Nearby Attractions

Darcelle XV Plaza’s central location makes it easy to explore:

Darcelle XV Showplace (the historic drag venue, about half a mile away)
Portland Art Museum
Pioneer Courthouse Square
The Pink Triangle district
Restaurants, hotels, and shopping in downtown Portland

Safety, Security, and Accessibility

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible; service animals welcome
Security Measures: Perimeter fencing and city security patrols
Emergency: Dial 911 or contact nearby businesses/city staff
Inclusivity: The plaza is a safe, welcoming space for all gender identities and orientations (Center for Public Interest Design)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Darcelle XV Plaza’s visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM; check Portland Parks & Recreation for updates.

Q: Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?
A: Admission is free; special events may require tickets.

Q: Is the plaza accessible to people with disabilities?
A: Yes, it features wide, level pathways and accessible seating.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Service animals are welcome; there is an off-leash dog park for other pets.

Q: Where can I find event schedules?
A: Event schedules are available on Portland Parks & Recreation and the Darcelle XV Showplace website.

Q: Is the plaza safe at night?
A: The plaza is well-lit and secured by a fence locked overnight.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Darcelle XV Plaza is a living tribute to Portland’s LGBTQ+ legacy, urban resilience, and artistic spirit. With free admission, accessible amenities, and year-round programming, it offers a meaningful destination for reflection, celebration, and community engagement. Visitors are encouraged to check current hours and event listings, use sustainable transportation, and explore nearby landmarks for a well-rounded Portland experience.

For the latest updates, download the Audiala app, follow Darcelle XV Plaza on social media, and explore related articles on Portland’s LGBTQ+ landmarks and historical sites. Embrace the opportunity to experience a unique piece of Portland’s evolving cultural landscape at Darcelle XV Plaza—where everyone is welcome.