Bicentennial Park

A Touch of History in Hillsboro

Tucked away at the corner of northeast 25th Avenue and Parkwood sits Bicentennial Park, a 4-acre green space with a story to tell. Opened in 1976, this park wasn't named on a whim - it commemorates both America's Bicentennial celebration and Hillsboro's centennial as an incorporated city. Pretty neat historical double-feature, right?

The Park's Unique Character

You can't miss the park's most distinctive landmark: a massive green water reservoir spanning 150 feet in diameter. This isn't just for show - it actually holds up to 6 million gallons of water as part of the city's water system. It's infrastructure with a view!

Along the southern edge, majestic oak trees create natural shade canopies, meant for those hot summer days when you're desperate for a break from the sun.

Play and Recreation Spaces

Despite its relatively modest size, Bicentennial Park packs in plenty of fun. There's a soccer field that's just right for a casual game, and a modern playground that kids tend to make a beeline for. The play area features a climbing boulder (a hit with the adventurous climbers), a wobbly wobble bridge that never fails to produce giggles, multiple slides, swings, and an old-school teeter-totter that brings back childhood memories.

One of the coolest features has to be the traffic safety bike path. With its painted lines and stop signs, it's an excellent spot for little ones to practice cycling and learn road rules in a safe environment.

Thoughtful Design and Amenities

Parents will appreciate that the playground area is completely fenced, making it easier to keep track of energetic youngsters. The equipment is thoughtfully designed for various age groups, from toddlers just finding their feet to school-aged children looking for more challenging play.

There are covered picnic tables nestled in shaded areas for when you need a meal break. Nature calls? No problem - two clean restrooms are conveniently located just outside the fenced playground area.

Recent Improvements

The park got a significant facelift in 2009, with new playground equipment, a fresh bathroom facility, and landscape improvements, partially funded by a federal grant. These upgrades have helped keep the space relevant and enjoyable for the community.

A Local Park

What makes Bicentennial Park special is how it is a gathering place for locals. The open field is spacious enough for activities without feeling exposed, and its central location in a residential area means it's just a short walk for many neighbors.

While not the largest or most famous park in Hillsboro, its thoughtful design and neighborhood setting give it a cozy feel, making it popular for playground meetups and weekend picnics.