Portland Heights Park

Park Overview

Found in southwest Portland, Oregon, Portland Heights Park spans a cozy 5.08 acres where SW Patton Road meets Old Orchard Road. This neighborhood green space feels tranquil, with tall trees casting cool patches of shade within the grounds. While it primarily serves the local community, the park's welcoming atmosphere invites anyone looking for a peaceful retreat from city life.

Historical Background

This park has a history dating back to the 1920s. It was originally owned by Mayannah and Boudinot Seeley, who opened their property to neighbors for games and recreation.

In 1924, the Portland Heights Club stepped in with initial development plans. Between 1925 and 1927, the City constructed a playground, operated by the Portland Heights Playground Association (PHPA).

In 1929, the Seeleys sold the property to the PHPA, who rallied neighbors to raise funds through subscription. The final chapter of its journey to becoming public land came in 1943 when the site was officially deeded to the City of Portland.

Amenities and Features

The park includes features for various ages and interests. The accessible play area features an engineered mulch surface and ramp design that allows children of all abilities to play.

The playground has a nostalgic feel with its older equipment, including a classic merry-go-round reminiscent of earlier decades. You'll often spot families here celebrating birthdays and making memories.

For those wanting to be active, there are several options. The basketball court offers a place for pick-up games, while the well-maintained tennis court draws local players looking to improve their serve. And yes, there are restrooms available so you can comfortably spend a good chunk of your day exploring.

Park Layout

The design includes both active recreation spaces and quieter areas for relaxation. A baseball field and open grassy area provide plenty of room to toss a frisbee or kick a soccer ball around.

When it's time for a break, head to the picnic area where you can claim a table for lunch or an afternoon snack. Paved paths wind through the park, making it easy to navigate, and there's a parking lot for those arriving by car.

The canopy of mature trees is a distinctive feature of the park. These trees provide shade during Portland's sunny days, though winter storms have claimed a few in recent years.