Duniway Park

Duniway Park Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in Portland

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: The Significance of Duniway Park in Portland

Duniway Park, located just south of downtown Portland, Oregon, is a celebrated urban oasis that seamlessly blends rich historical heritage with vibrant recreational opportunities. Once the rugged and inaccessible Marquam Gulch—characterized by steep woods, a meandering creek, and a towering railroad trestle—the area was reclaimed and transformed into a public park through visionary civic efforts (Cyclotram). Today, Duniway Park stands as a testament to Portland’s commitment to green spaces, community health, and social progress.

Named in honor of suffrage pioneer Abigail Scott Duniway, the park is both a recreational haven and a living tribute to Portland’s social history (pdxsocialhistory.org). With free daily admission, accessible facilities, and a variety of attractions, Duniway Park welcomes families, athletes, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike (Portland Parks & Recreation; mypacer.com). Whether you are drawn by the lush lilac gardens, the all-weather running track, or the park’s unique history, Duniway Park is a highlight of Portland’s urban landscape.

Quick Overview

Park history: From Marquam Gulch to iconic urban park
Key features: Running track, lilac garden, playgrounds, and public art
Accessibility: Inclusive amenities, central location, and public transit options
Visiting hours: Open daily, free admission

History and Transformation

From Marquam Gulch to Community Green Space

The land now known as Duniway Park was once Marquam Gulch—a steep, wooded ravine at the city’s edge, cut by Marquam Creek and shadowed by a Southern Pacific railroad trestle. In the early 20th century, local advocates, concerned about the lack of safe play areas, successfully campaigned for the reclamation of the gulch. Their grassroots efforts led to a voter-approved parks levy in 1917 and the park’s official dedication in August 1918, fulfilling a decades-long civic dream (Cyclotram).

Honoring Abigail Scott Duniway

Duniway Park is one of Portland’s few parks named after a woman. Abigail Scott Duniway was a pioneering suffragist and the first legal female voter in Multnomah County. Her legacy is celebrated throughout the park, with interpretive signage and memorials highlighting her pivotal role in Oregon’s history (pdxsocialhistory.org).

Evolving Landscapes and Facilities

Extensive regrading and filling converted the original ravine into multi-level terraces. The lower terrace houses the main running track and athletic fields, while the upper terrace features gardens and picnic areas. The original Marquam Creek now runs underground, and the park’s altered topography has led to lasting changes in the city’s street grid (Cyclotram).

During World War II, the park temporarily served the Oregon National Guard, and by the 1960s, a partnership with Portland State College helped formalize the park’s boundaries and facilities.

Park Features and Attractions

The Duniway Park Running Track

Duniway Park is renowned among Portland’s running community for its well-maintained, all-weather running track. Originally a hub for local athletes during the 1970s fitness boom, the track has undergone several upgrades—most recently in 2016–2017, when Under Armour funded a major renovation, including a new 400-meter oval and turf field (Portland Running Company). The track is open to the public and features lighting for extended hours.

The Lilac Garden

A standout feature is the lilac garden, established in 1931 and expanded by the Portland Garden Club. With over 200 varieties and 225 individual plants, the garden blooms from April through June, filling the air with fragrance and color (Oregon Essential). Seasonal interpretive signage and occasional guided tours provide botanical and historical insights.

Athletic and Family Facilities

In addition to the running track and turf field, Duniway Park offers:

Basketball and tennis courts: Available on a first-come, first-served basis (Snoflo).
Playground: A spacious, modern play area with safety surfaces, ideal for families.
Open lawns: Perfect for picnics, frisbee, or yoga.
Public art: Notably, a large stone sculpture by Lee Kelly, adding to the park’s cultural appeal (Snoflo).

Walking Trails and Scenic Views

Winding paved trails connect the park’s amenities, offering opportunities for walking, jogging, and dog walking. Benches and shaded spots provide peaceful vistas of downtown Portland and the West Hills (Travel Oregon).

Visitor Information

Hours and Admission

General hours: 5:00 am–midnight daily (Portland Parks & Recreation)
Admission: Free; no tickets required

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible paths and restrooms
Accessible parking and entrances
ADA Title II and Civil Rights Title VI compliance

Getting There

By car: Dedicated parking lot with a one-hour free limit; additional street parking nearby
By transit: Served by multiple TriMet bus lines and the Portland Streetcar (TriMet)
By bike: Bike racks available; connected to city bike routes

Amenities

Restrooms and drinking fountains near the playground and track
Lighting for evening use (track and athletic areas)
Picnic areas (open lawns; no formal shelters)
Pet policy: Dogs allowed on leash; owners must clean up after pets

Safety Tips

Visit during daylight or well-lit hours for maximum safety
Dress for the weather; bring water and sun protection as needed
Secure valuables and follow posted park rules

Seasonal Highlights and Community Events

Lilac blooms: April–June, peak mid-spring (Oregon Essential)
Community runs and fitness events: Hosted by local clubs (check local calendars)
Cultural programs: Occasional free concerts, movies, and festivals during the summer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Duniway Park’s hours?
Open daily from 5:00 am to midnight (Portland Parks & Recreation).

Is there an admission fee?
No, the park is free to enter; no tickets are required.

Are there public restrooms?
Yes, accessible restrooms are available near the playground and track.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?
All main pathways and restrooms are wheelchair-friendly.

Can I reserve the athletic fields?
Yes, field reservations are required for organized activities; call 503-823-2525.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, dogs are permitted on leash.

How do I get to Duniway Park by transit?
Multiple TriMet bus lines and the Portland Streetcar stop nearby (TriMet).

Are there guided tours?
Occasionally offered, especially for the Lilac Garden; check with the Portland Garden Club or Portland Parks & Recreation for details.

Nearby Attractions

International Rose Test Garden
Washington Park (gardens, zoo, museums)
Portland State University campus
Downtown Portland shops and restaurants

Visitor Tips and Recommendations

Best time to visit: Spring for lilac blooms; summer for sports and picnics
Bring: Weather-appropriate clothing, water bottle, camera, and picnic blanket
Explore: The Lee Kelly sculpture and Abigail Scott Duniway Memorial for cultural and historical enrichment
Use digital resources: The Pacer app offers maps and user reviews for walking/running routes
Check for events: Local calendars and the Portland Parks & Recreation website list upcoming activities

Visual Experience

Summary

Duniway Park is a dynamic destination that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and recreation. From the inspiring story of its creation and its tribute to Abigail Scott Duniway to its lush lilac gardens and state-of-the-art running track, the park serves as a model for urban green spaces in Portland. With free admission, inclusive amenities, and a convenient location, Duniway Park is ideal for anyone seeking relaxation, cultural enrichment, or active outdoor fun (Cyclotram; Portland Running Company).