Pier Park

Pier Park Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Pier Park, set in Portland’s St. Johns neighborhood, is an 87-acre haven blending natural beauty, deep-rooted history, and a vibrant community spirit. From its beginnings as wetlands and a brickyard to its transformation into one of Portland’s beloved urban parks, Pier Park reflects the city’s dedication to preserving green spaces and fostering community engagement (Kiddle; OregonWiki). Visitors will find everything from tranquil forest trails and renowned disc golf to a popular skatepark and accessible picnic areas—all nestled beneath the iconic St. Johns Bridge. This guide covers Pier Park’s hours, amenities, history, travel tips, nearby attractions, and community resources, ensuring you have all the details for a memorable visit.

History and Background
Visiting Hours, Admission, and Access
Facilities and Amenities
Key Activities and Attractions
Safety, Accessibility, and Park Rules
Community, Events, and Volunteer Opportunities
Travel Tips and Seasonal Considerations
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Contact and Further Resources
Summary and Final Tips

History and Background

Origins and Early Land Use

Pier Park’s land was originally part of the James Loomis donation land claim. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it served as a brickyard and wetlands. When the St. Johns Brick Company ceased operations in 1905, the land became an informal playground for local children, reflecting the community’s early connection to the space (Kiddle). In 1920, the city of Portland began developing the area into a public park, hiring over 100 unemployed men for the project—a significant effort that provided both jobs and public benefit (OregonWiki).

Naming and Notable Events

Named after Sylvester Charles Pier, a city commissioner and parks advocate, the park was officially established in 1921. It also played a historical role as the site of the “Bloody Tuesday” longshoremen’s strike in 1929, cementing its status as both a recreational and community landmark (OregonWiki).

Visiting Hours, Admission, and Access

Hours of Operation

Park: Open daily from 5:00 a.m. to midnight (Portland Parks & Recreation).
Pier Pool: Seasonally open (typically late spring through early fall); as of July 2025, the pool is undergoing repairs and is temporarily closed (North Peninsula Review).

Admission

Park Entry: Free for all visitors; no tickets required.
Pier Pool: Small admission fee when open; discounts for children, seniors, and Portland residents (Portland Parks & Recreation).

Getting There

Location: 10325 N Lombard St, Portland, OR 97203.
Parking: Free lot near the main entrance; additional street parking available (be mindful of restrictions) (MyPacer).
Public Transportation: Served by TriMet #4 and #44 bus lines; close to North Lombard Transit Center for MAX Yellow Line (TriMet).
Cycling: Bike-friendly with trails and racks on-site.

Facilities and Amenities

Restrooms: ADA-compliant facilities, including a Portland Loo and accessible pathways (Portland Parks & Recreation).
Picnic Areas: Multiple tables and shelters; some are reservable for group events.
Playground: Modern, accessible equipment suitable for all ages.
Drinking Fountains: Located near restrooms and play areas.
Sports Courts/Fields: Basketball, tennis, baseball/softball, and soccer fields.
Disc Golf Course: 18 holes, free to use, set among towering evergreens (UDisc).
Skatepark: 11,000-square-foot, suitable for all skill levels.
Swimming Pool: Outdoor, seasonal (currently closed for repairs).

Key Activities and Attractions

Disc Golf

Pier Park’s disc golf course is ranked among Oregon’s best, weaving through mature forest and offering a challenging yet scenic layout. Bring your own discs and consult a digital course map for navigation (UDisc).

Skatepark

A destination for skaters, the skatepark features bowls, ramps, and rails. Its “Walkwave” artistic entrance, designed by Adam Kuby, adds visual appeal.

Trails and Nature Walks

Miles of paved and natural-surface trails wind through Douglas firs, red cedars, and meadows, ideal for walking, jogging, birdwatching, and photography.

Sports and Family Recreation

Basketball, tennis, baseball/softball, and soccer facilities are available, along with shaded picnic areas and a playground for children.

Photography

Capture views of the historic St. Johns Bridge, especially from the park’s western edge. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting.

Safety, Accessibility, and Park Rules

Safety: Pier Park is in a safe, family-friendly area, patrolled by staff and community volunteers (Travellers Worldwide; Urban Abroad).
Accessibility: ADA-compliant restrooms, paved paths, accessible playground and picnic tables.
Park Rules:
- Alcohol and smoking are prohibited.
- Dogs must be leashed; clean up after pets.
- No fireworks or open flames.
- Use designated bins for trash and recycling.

Community, Events, and Volunteer Opportunities

Friends of Pier Park

This nonprofit group organizes monthly meetings (third Tuesday, except December), regular cleanups, native plantings, and restoration projects. Get involved to help maintain and improve the park (Friends of Pier Park).

Events

Pier Park is a venue for local gatherings, summer concerts, neighborhood festivals, and seasonal cleanups (SOLVE Oregon). Check the Friends of Pier Park events calendar and Portland Parks & Recreation for updates.

Travel Tips and Seasonal Considerations

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for warm, dry weather. Weekdays and mornings offer quieter experiences.
Weather: Summer highs average 80°F (27°C); bring layers, sunscreen, and water (Powered by Tofu).
Amenities: No food vendors; bring your own snacks. Restrooms and drinking fountains are available.
What to Bring: Sports equipment, picnic supplies, waste bags for pets, and maps for disc golf or trails.

Nearby Attractions

St. Johns Bridge: Iconic Gothic Revival bridge, perfect for photos.
Cathedral Park: River views, concerts, and green space beneath the bridge.
St. Johns Neighborhood: Cafes, shops, and local arts scene (Travel Portland).
Forest Park and Kelley Point Park: Additional hiking and nature options.
Portland International Raceway: For motorsport fans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Pier Park’s visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 5:00 a.m. to midnight.

Q: Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?
A: No, park entry is free. Pier Pool charges a small fee when open.

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Yes, leashed dogs are welcome; owners must clean up after them.

Q: Are restrooms and facilities accessible?
A: Yes, ADA-compliant restrooms and accessible paths are available.

Q: Can I reserve picnic shelters?
A: Yes, through Portland Parks & Recreation.

Q: Is sports equipment rental available?
A: No rentals on-site; bring your own gear.

Q: Is the pool open?
A: As of July 2025, Pier Pool is closed for repairs—check the official site for updates (North Peninsula Review).

Contact and Further Resources

For general inquiries or to report issues, contact Portland Parks & Recreation at (503) 823-2525 or visit the official Pier Park page.

Summary and Final Tips

Pier Park stands as a testament to Portland’s commitment to urban green spaces, blending historical significance, recreational variety, and strong community stewardship (Kiddle; OregonWiki; Friends of Pier Park). Whether you’re a disc golfer, skater, family, or history enthusiast, the park offers accessible, year-round enjoyment. Plan ahead for parking and event schedules, especially during peak months. Explore nearby St. Johns, admire the St. Johns Bridge, and consider joining local volunteer efforts to help keep the park thriving.