Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park Visitor’s Guide: Hours, Amenities & Portland Historical Significance
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park, nestled in Portland, Oregon’s Centennial neighborhood, is more than a recreational green space—it stands as a powerful homage to Verdell A. Burdine and Otto G. Rutherford. These pioneering civil rights activists profoundly shaped Oregon’s social justice landscape. Their legacy is reflected throughout the park’s design, amenities, and programming, honoring the Black community’s enduring fight for equity and inclusion.
Park at a Glance:
- [Location: SE 167th Avenue & Market Street, Portland, OR (Portland.gov)](#location:-se-167th-avenue-&-market-street,-portland,-or-(portland.gov))
- Hours: Open daily from 5:00 AM to midnight
- Admission: Free; no tickets required
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths, inclusive playground, accessible restrooms
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park is easily accessible by car, bicycle, and public transit, with street parking and bike racks available. The park’s modern and inclusive amenities, along with its strong cultural and historical presence, make it an inviting destination for families, history enthusiasts, and the greater community.
Table of Contents
- Park History and Cultural Significance
- Visiting Hours & Access
- Getting There & Parking
- Accessibility Features
- Playground & Recreational Facilities
- Picnic & Gathering Areas
- Walking Paths & Green Spaces
- Public Art & Interpretive Installations
- Events & Community Programs
- Nature & Environmental Features
- Safety & Park Policies
- Visitor Tips
- Nearby Attractions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- References
Park History and Cultural Significance
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park is the first park in Portland named after a Black woman. Verdell Burdine Rutherford (1913–2001) and her husband Otto G. Rutherford (1911–2000) were central figures in Portland’s NAACP chapter. They were instrumental in passing the 1953 Oregon Public Accommodations Bill, which outlawed racial discrimination in public spaces (Portland State University Rutherford Collection). The park’s renaming in 2020 marks a reclamation of public space in honor of justice, resilience, and community empowerment.
Visitors can deepen their understanding by exploring the Rutherford Family Collection at Portland State University, which features artifacts, photographs, and documents chronicling the Rutherfords’ impact and Portland’s Black history.
Visiting Hours & Access
- Open Daily: 5:00 AM – Midnight
- Admission: Free; no tickets required
- Address: SE 167th Ave & Market St, Portland, OR
- Public Transit: Served by nearby TriMet bus routes; check TriMet for schedules
- Bike Access: Bike racks on-site
Getting There & Parking
- By Car: Street parking is available along the park’s perimeter
- By Bike: Bike racks at main entrances
- By Transit: TriMet routes 10 and 71 stop within walking distance
- Directions: Enter “Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park” or “SE 167th & Market” into your GPS
Accessibility Features
The park is designed to be accessible for all:
- Paved, ADA-compliant pathways for wheelchairs and strollers
- Inclusive playground with adaptive swings and rubberized surfacing
- Accessible restrooms (Portland Loo open seasonally; portable toilet provided off-season)
- Interpretive signage in accessible locations
Translation and interpretation services can be requested through Portland Parks & Recreation (Portland.gov).
Playground & Recreational Facilities
- Modern, inclusive playground: Features adaptive equipment for children of all abilities, including swings, balance and climbing elements, and a slide integrated with the landscape (PDX Parent, Ross Recreation).
- Grass soccer field: Open for informal play and community events
- Water play features: Interactive elements for children in warmer months (Playgrounds Near Me)
Picnic & Gathering Areas
- Picnic shelter: Covered, reservable via Portland Parks (Portland.gov)
- Ample picnic tables and benches: For small groups or individuals
- Open lawns: Perfect for family picnics, yoga, or community gatherings
Walking Paths & Green Spaces
The park’s paved paths are ideal for leisurely strolls, jogging, or accessible navigation. Landscaped with native plants, mature trees, and seasonal flowers, the park offers tranquil scenery and plenty of shaded areas.
Public Art & Interpretive Installations
- Art installations: Celebrate the legacy of Verdell Burdine Rutherford and Portland’s Black community (AP News)
- Interpretive signage and plaques: Tell the story of the park’s namesake and the broader social impact of the Rutherfords
Events & Community Programs
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park hosts diverse, free events and programs:
- Summer Free for All series: Outdoor movies, live concerts (e.g., Picante Latin Jazz), and drop-in youth activities (Jazz Oregon, PDX Parent)
- Guided history walks and educational workshops
- Community celebrations: Including Black Earth Day Stroll and other cultural events
Check the City of Portland Parks & Recreation events calendar or community boards for updated schedules.
Nature & Environmental Features
- 8-acre urban oasis: Lush lawns, meadows, and mature trees
- Native landscaping: Attracts local wildlife and supports sustainability
- Rain gardens and permeable surfaces: Manage stormwater and enhance ecological health
- Birdwatching and nature photography: Frequent sightings of local bird species, especially in spring and summer (Snoflo)
Safety & Park Policies
- Modern lighting: Illuminates key areas after dark
- Regular maintenance: Ensures cleanliness and safety
- Park rules:
- No smoking or alcohol
- Dogs must be leashed; owners must pick up after pets
- Park closes at midnight
- Report emergencies via 9-1-1; non-emergencies via 3-1-1 or online
Visitor Tips
- Best times: Weekday mornings or early afternoons for fewer crowds
- Bring: Water, snacks, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for children using water features
- Restrooms: Portland Loo open spring–fall; portable toilet available otherwise
- Weather: Dress in layers and bring rain gear outside summer months
Nearby Attractions
- Parklane Park, Rockwood Central Park, Luuwit View Park: Other inclusive parks nearby (Playgrounds Near Me)
- Patrick Lynch Elementary School: Collaborates on educational programs
- Centennial Neighborhood: Local shops, cafes, and community spaces
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the park’s visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 5:00 AM to midnight.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, the park is free to all visitors.
Q: Is the park accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ADA-compliant paths, playgrounds, and restrooms.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Dogs are welcome on leash; owners must clean up after them.
Q: How can I reserve the picnic shelter?
A: Through the Portland Parks & Recreation department.
Q: What should I do in an emergency at the park?
A: Call 9-1-1 for emergencies, or 3-1-1 for non-emergency issues.
References
- Portland State University Rutherford Collection
- City of Portland Parks & Recreation
- Ross Recreation Project Page
- AP News Coverage
- PDX Parent - Inclusive Playgrounds
- Jazz Oregon - Picante at Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
- Snoflo - Rutherford Park
- Playgrounds Near Me
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park stands as a beacon of Portland’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusive community spaces. Whether you’re seeking recreation, reflection, or a deeper understanding of Oregon’s civil rights heritage, your visit supports and celebrates the ongoing narrative of justice and community empowerment in the city.
For the latest updates, interactive maps, and event schedules, visit the official Portland Parks & Recreation website. Enhance your visit with guided audio tours and notifications via the Audiala app.
