Mill Ends Park
Interactive Park Map
About the Location
World's Tiniest Urban Oasis
Located in the median strip of SW Naito Parkway near SW Taylor Street, this tiny urban oasis measures just 2 feet (0.61 m) in diameter with a total area of 452 square inches (0.292 m²).
Until early 2025, Mill Ends Park held the Guinness World Record for the smallest park, before losing this title to a smaller park in Nagaizumi, Japan.
Whimsical Origins
The park's history dates back to 1946 when Dick Fagan, a columnist for the Oregon Journal, noticed a hole in the concrete where a light pole was meant to be installed. Taking matters into his own hands, Fagan planted flowers in the hole and began writing about it in his column called "Mill Ends".
The park was officially dedicated on St. Patrick's Day in 1948 and became a city park in 1976. The park's name comes from the column Fagan wrote, referring to the leftover pieces of wood at lumber mills.
Tiny Attractions
Despite its small size, Mill Ends Park has been the site of various whimsical events and installations. These have included tiny decorations for holidays, a miniature swimming pool for butterflies, and even a small Ferris wheel.
The park is maintained by Portland Parks & Recreation and has its own watering schedule.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Mill Ends Park has undergone some changes due to urban development. In 2006 and again in 2021, the park was temporarily relocated during construction on Naito Parkway.
It has since been returned to its original location, albeit six inches west of its previous spot, continuing to embody Portland's quirky and creative spirit.
