Grant Park

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

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Grant Park, located in Northeast Portland, Oregon, is a beloved urban oasis that seamlessly blends rich historical roots, vibrant cultural heritage, and diverse recreational amenities. Named in honor of President Ulysses S. Grant, who visited Portland multiple times, the park is a central gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Its legacy, accessibility, and community-focused spirit make it a standout destination in Portland’s landscape (PDX Today, Wikipedia).

From the iconic Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden to the modernized Grant Outdoor Pool, Grant Park offers something for everyone—history enthusiasts, families, literary fans, and outdoor adventurers. This comprehensive guide details everything you need to know for a memorable visit, including historical context, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, transportation, nearby attractions, and helpful travel tips.

Introduction
Historical Context: Origins and Literary Heritage
Visitor Information: Hours, Admission, and Accessibility
Attractions and Activities
Getting There: Transportation and Parking
Community and Preservation Efforts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Travel Tips and Nearby Highlights
Conclusion
References

Historical Context: Origins and Literary Heritage

Grant Park’s story begins in the mid-19th century, rooted in the era of the Donation Land Claim Act. The land that now forms the park and surrounding neighborhood was once the 160-acre Bowering Tract, which changed hands several times before being acquired by Charles Cardinell in 1887. His family played a key role in shaping the area, with his daughter Eliza Dolph platting the Dolph Park neighborhood, which remains part of Grant Park today (PDX Today).

The park was named for President Ulysses S. Grant, reflecting both national significance and Grant’s personal connection to Portland and the Pacific Northwest. Designed by landscape architect Florence Holmes Gerke, Grant Park embodies early 20th-century ideals of accessible, open green space (Wikipedia).

Grant Park is also immortalized in American literature through the works of Beverly Cleary. Many of Cleary’s beloved characters, such as Ramona Quimby, inhabited fictionalized versions of the park and its surrounding streets. The Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden, with statues of her characters, celebrates this unique literary heritage (Oregon Encyclopedia).

Visitor Information: Hours, Admission, and Accessibility

Location: Northeast Portland, Oregon
Park Hours: 5:00 AM – midnight daily
Admission: Free general entry; fees apply for certain amenities (e.g., outdoor pool)
Parking: Street parking available in surrounding neighborhoods; limited dedicated spots
Accessibility: ADA-compliant features throughout the park and pool (Portland.gov)

Pool Ticketing and Hours

Grant Outdoor Pool is open seasonally from late June through late August.
2025 Pool Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM
- Sat–Sun: 11:15 AM–6:00 PM
Admission Fees:
- Adults (18–64): $5
- Youth (3–17): $3
- Seniors (65+): $3
- Children under 3: Free

All swimmers, even those not entering the water, require admission during drop-in swim times.

Accessibility

Grant Park features paved pathways, ADA-compliant restrooms, all-user changing rooms at the pool, and accessible playground equipment. The park’s ongoing renovations prioritize inclusivity and ease of access for all visitors (Portland.gov).

Attractions and Activities

Grant Outdoor Pool

A favorite summer destination, the Grant Outdoor Pool underwent a major renovation in 2016, funded by the Parks Replacement Bond. Upgrades included new plumbing, pumps, accessibility features, and improved sanitation systems. The pool offers lap swim, recreational swim, and group swim lessons during its operating season (Portland.gov).

Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden

Celebrate Portland’s literary heritage at the Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden. Bronze statues of Ramona, Henry, and Ribsy, set among engraved granite tiles, delight children and adults alike. The garden’s splash fountain is especially popular during summer months (Atlas Obscura).

Sports Facilities and Playgrounds

Playground: Modern play structures for children of all ages.
Tennis and Basketball Courts: First-come, first-served use.
Athletic Fields: Baseball, soccer, and softball fields, plus a running track.
Picnic Areas: Shaded tables and reservable group spots.
Dog Off-Leash Area: Designated space for dogs to play freely.
Community Garden: Managed by local residents, promoting urban agriculture.

Walking Paths and Open Spaces

Enjoy paved walking paths, mature shade trees, open lawns for picnics or sports, and benches for relaxation. The park’s layout supports both active recreation and quiet reflection.

Getting There: Transportation and Parking

By Public Transit

Grant Park is well-served by TriMet bus routes and is a short walk from the Hollywood/NE 42nd Avenue MAX station (Grant Park Neighborhood Association).

By Car

The park is approximately a 12-minute drive from downtown Portland. Street parking is available, but it can fill quickly during peak hours and events. Observe posted signs and be considerate of local residents.

By Bike or On Foot

With a walk score of 81 and bike score of 94, Grant Park is easily accessible by foot or bicycle. Bike racks are available for visitors.

Community and Preservation Efforts

Grant Park is a focal point for community engagement, equity, and environmental stewardship. The Portland Parks Foundation and city grants fund programs that support underserved communities, cultural events, and sustainability initiatives (Portland Parks Foundation). The park hosts “Summer Free For All” concerts and festivals, resource fairs, and health events, reinforcing its role as a cultural and wellness hub (Portland.gov Summer Free For All, CSN PDX Community Resource Fairs).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Grant Park’s visiting hours?
Grant Park is open daily from 5:00 AM to midnight.

Is there a fee to enter Grant Park?
General park access is free. The pool and some special events require tickets or admission fees.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome. They must remain on-leash except in the designated off-leash area.

Is the park accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. Most amenities are ADA-compliant, but some older paths may be uneven.

Are guided tours available?
Guided tours are occasionally offered by local historical societies. Check the park or neighborhood association websites for updates.

Can I reserve picnic areas?
Yes, some picnic areas can be reserved through Portland Parks & Recreation.

Travel Tips and Nearby Highlights

Arrive early during summer weekends for better parking and pool access.
Bring your own food and water; nearby grocery stores and the Hollywood Farmer’s Market are convenient options (Grant Park Neighborhood Association).
Check event schedules before visiting to avoid crowds or facility closures.
Explore nearby districts like Hollywood and the Alberta Arts District for dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Grant Park stands as a vibrant emblem of Portland’s urban heritage, blending historical significance, cultural richness, and community vitality. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoor pool, exploring the Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden, or picnicking beneath mature trees, the park offers an inviting space for relaxation, recreation, and connection. Plan your visit using the resources provided and immerse yourself in the heart of Portland’s community spirit.

For real-time updates, event schedules, and guided tour options, visit the official Portland Parks & Recreation website and download the Audiala app. Discover why Grant Park is a cornerstone of Portland’s outdoor and cultural heritage.