Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park

History and Creation

The removal of the Harbor Drive freeway in 1974 helped put Portland on the map as a pioneer in urban planning - and it also gave the city what would become Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This 36.59-acre green space opened in its current form in 1978, turning a former industrial waterfront into one of downtown's most cherished public areas.

In 1984, the park was renamed to honor Tom McCall, the Oregon governor who championed that transformation. Stretching 1.5 miles from SW Harrison Street to NW Glisan Street along the western bank of the Willamette River, with Naito Parkway running along its western edge, the park offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

Park Features and Memorials

As you wander through the park, you'll encounter the imposing Battleship Oregon Memorial, built in 1956 to commemorate a ship from 1893 that earned the nickname 'the Bulldog of the United States Navy.' There's something wonderfully mysterious about the time capsule sealed at its base on July 4, 1976 - it won't be opened until July 5, 2076, leaving us to wonder what messages our predecessors left for future generations.

The Founders Stone stands as a quiet reminder of Portland's beginnings, honoring William Pettygrove and Asa Lovejoy, the city's founding fathers.

Cherry blossoms in spring with the Willamette River visible behind

Photo: Mitchell Friedman (CC BY 2.0)

Water Features

On hot summer days, there's no better place to be than Salmon Street Springs, a delightful fountain that's been refreshing visitors since 1988. Named through a public contest in 1989, this isn't your typical look-but-don't-touch water feature. With its 185 computer-controlled water jets creating ever-changing patterns, it's a place where many visitors kick off their shoes and wade in.

The fountain cycles through three main patterns - misters, bollards, and wedding cake - and can recycle nearly 5,000 gallons of water per minute through up to 137 jets. It's a magnet for families, with children squealing with delight as they dash through the spray on warm afternoons.

Japanese American Historical Plaza

Between the Burnside and Steel bridges lies one of Portland's most photogenic spots: the Japanese American Historical Plaza. Come mid-March to late April, the plaza's 100 cherry trees burst into bloom, creating a canopy of pink and white blossoms that feels almost magical.

Beyond its beauty, the plaza acts as a poignant reminder of Japanese American history in the Pacific Northwest, including the painful period when many were forced into internment camps during World War II. During cherry blossom season, the area transforms into a photographer's dream, drawing visitors hoping to capture the ephemeral beauty of these flowering trees against Portland's urban backdrop.

Cherry blossoms in full bloom along the waterfront

Photo: Mitchell Friedman (CC BY 2.0)

Recreational Activities

The park represents a green highway through downtown, with smooth, paved paths that make it excellent for morning jogs, leisurely walks, or bike rides along the river. The wide trails are accessible to all and offer stunning views of the Willamette, the city skyline, and Portland's collection of distinctive bridges.

While there aren't many formal picnic tables, you'll often see locals sprawled out on blankets on the grass when the weather's nice. The open design makes it easy to find a spot to relax, and benches along the waterfront provide good places for river-watching or taking a breather during your exploration.

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Events and Activities

During the year, the park transforms into Portland's communal backyard for celebrations big and small. It hosts some of the city's most popular traditions: the colorful Portland Rose Festival, the rhythm-filled Waterfront Blues Festival, and the hoppy Oregon Brewers Festival. During Fleet Week, naval vessels line the waterfront, offering curious visitors a glimpse into maritime life.

Don't miss the Portland Saturday Market (which actually runs both Saturday and Sunday), the largest continuously operated outdoor arts and crafts market in the country. As seasons change, so does the park's personality - from summer concerts to winter light displays, it's a space that reflects the community's creative, festive spirit year-round.