Lovejoy Fountain Park

A Modernist Haven with History

Completed in 1966, this urban oasis was crafted by the visionary landscape architect Lawrence Halprin as part of Portland's Open Space Sequence. It bears the name of Asa Lawrence Lovejoy, one of the city's founding fathers, and connects to nearby Pettygrove Park.

The park emerged from a 1960s urban renewal initiative and forms part of the Portland Open Space Sequence. This interconnected system of parks and fountains created a series of communal spaces and has been recognized for its approach to city landscape design.

Nature Reimagined in Concrete

At the heart of the park lies an eye-catching concrete fountain that's actually an abstract nod to Oregon's natural landscapes. The water dances down stepped terraces and collects in tranquil pools, mimicking the waterfalls and streams you'd find in the Cascade Range.

The textured concrete structures, created using board-formed techniques, echo the rugged contours of the High Sierra that inspired Halprin's vision. What makes this design special is how it invites you to do more than look - you can actually interact with the water features.

Kids especially love climbing around the fountain structures (though do be careful). When summer hits, the fountain becomes a favorite spot for cooling off and unwinding.

Layout that Lets the Fountain Shine

Plants and greenery are primarily kept to the edges of Lovejoy Fountain Park, allowing the central fountain and plaza to remain the star of the show. This creates a quiet retreat where the gentle sounds of flowing water help buffer the urban noise.

On the western side stands a substantial wooden lattice pavilion, designed by architects Charles Moore and William Turnbull Jr. This structure offers a sheltered space within the otherwise open plaza - an excellent spot to pause and take in the fountain's beauty.

While there are several benches scattered throughout, most people end up sitting on the concrete structures or gathering around the fountain itself. The open design creates a peaceful atmosphere despite the park's modest size.

Finding Your Way

What makes Lovejoy Fountain Park unique is its location within a network of pedestrian-only pathways, creating a peaceful break from city traffic. You can access the park from four car-free roads that would otherwise be typical city streets.

If you're exploring the area, consider checking out the other parts of the Portland Open Space Sequence, including Pettygrove Park and Ira Keller Fountain - all within an easy walk of each other.

Historic Recognition

In March 2013, the Portland Open Space Sequence, including Lovejoy Fountain Park, earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its important contribution to landscape architecture and urban planning.