I stroll through about once a week on average since I attend a lot of shows at Arlene Schnitzer or the Newmark Theater so I park near the Art Museum. Having these lovely parks to walk through is so calming for a stroll. The greens are so well maintained and people tend to leave them be. We've had some statue drama but I do like that the light installations have been placed. It is getting close to rose bloom which is always a lovely happening. read more

South Park Blocks - 4/16/2024 - Strolling back to the car after an event at Arlene Schnitzer. - Parks Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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This 12-block greenspace stretches north from Portland State University. PSU used to be my stomping grounds for a very long time and I particularly found this area very soothing yet full of life . It particularly comes to life in summers but has a good thing going even in the cloudy grey months . Plenty of seating around . Apart from the Saturday Farmers market there is still plenty that happen here like the PSU fall commencement , a lot of protests and charity events .There's a good number of small businesses surrounding the area . This place truly gives you a taste of Portland right in the heart of the city surrounded by so much art. read more

It's such a privilege and treat to have such a lush green space in downtown Portland! The old and established trees provide a canopy over several blocks that house Portland State University, the Performing Arts Center, beautiful churches, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert hall and lots of shops, restaurants and coffee shops. There are paths that meander through this area with lots of grass, sculptures scattered throughout, and benches to rest and enjoy both the tranquility and people watch. The Park Blocks definitely get lots of activity! On Saturday mornings, the park really comes to life with the Portland Farmers Market brings dozens and dozens of vendors - the best Farmers Market in Portland- and hundreds of people. The market is open during the Pandemic and social distancing orders are in practice, so not as lively as it once was; I certainly hope it reverts. Yes, there are homeless and street people, as there are everywhere in this City, but I've never felt unsafe. This is a beautiful, lush oasis in the middle of the City for all to enjoy. read more

Honestly, I love it. I recently moved to the area (and wasn't too excited about it) and being able to spend a lot of time in the Park Blocks is one of the main things that changed my mind about my new neighborhood. I'm here probably 3-4 times a day thanks to my dog, and they're just so lovely. I love the way they connect my neighborhood from downtown to PSU, and they're just so pretty. Lovely sculptures, gorgeous tree-lined walking paths, and a lot of activity. Yes, there's a significant presence of people experiencing homelessness, but that's just sort of the cost of admission for living in a city. They're still kept pretty clean. And while I acknowledge my "large white male" privilege I've never felt unsafe. There's a good number of nice little businesses surrounding the blocks, and the parks themselves often have groups of people enjoying the scenery. Having the South Park Blocks at my disposal has improved my quality of life. I like them. read more

How have I never reviewed the SPB? My humble guess is that I've walked them completely up and down about 100 times, with the utter conviction each time that being in this part of downtown could easily disguise for strolling in Europe.. hands-down. Located on both sides by Cultural District and great restaurants, so easy to take a load off, park it on a bench, and enjoy the stellar views and the wonderful breeze. Most recently, I attended the speical rotating exhibit from the V&A at PAM. Another few reasons that I walked it were after dinner strolls to dump off a fraction of the calories ingested. This has so much more historicity than the North Park Blocks, IMHO. One of the favorite parts of the city for me. read more

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What a beautiful and peaceful place! I got a chance to walk here on Monday morning and it was amazing. People walking and running, chilling and enjoying the colors of the fall. did wanna leave this place. read more

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I really enjoy spending time in the South Park Blocks. They are lined with several Museums, the Performing Arts Center, Portland State University, shopping, restaurants, churches and housing. It has paths running from one end to the other. The paths widen into small plazas at times. There are lots of trees, grass,benches, and most blocks have a sculpture of some sort. So they are really great to walk in whether just to walk or to get somewhere. Lots of people hang out, walk and generally kill time there. Farmers market also uses areas of them which I love. They play host to students, locals relaxing, squirrels, people playing music and homeless people hanging out. That all makes for great people watching. It was originally intended to extend to the North Park blocks. That fell through though two of the missing blocks have been added over the years. In 1973 the city purchased what is now O'Bryant Square, and Director Park opened in 2009. read more

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The South Park Blocks are a pretty, enjoyable and narrow slice of nature within Portland's Cultural District. During my stay in Portland, I walked several of the blocks, visited the Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Historical Society, enjoyed the public art (including statues and fountain), and and marveled at the architecture of the First Congregational Church and other buildings along this first official green space of the Rose City. The South Park Blocks were also a welcome respite from my busy day and a much better choice for contemplation than the relatively nearby Pioneer Square. Or as the Oregonian once noted: The South Park Blocks is the "extended family room", as opposed to the Courthouse Area being the "living room". Odd members of the clan can be found in both places and some caution is advised. read more

I am surprised that this park doesn't get more love from the Yelpers. I've always enjoyed the South Park Blocks, and considering their popularity, I know I am not the only one. A little oasis in the middle of busy downtown, the park stretches as far as you want to walk, through shady trees, among the flowers, and past many statues and works of art. Enjoy views of classical Portland architecture, see strolling couples and happy seniors enjoying the peace. It really is a great place to visit. And whenever you're ready, just walk a block away on one of the cross streets and suddenly you're back in the city again. I am so happy for the vision of the early city planners, it makes me appreciate the thought of what today's actions will bring tomorrow. read more

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I love this place so much that I walk through it deliberately on my daily trek to work. It's especially beautiful in the fall, producing a display of color unmatched anywhere else in Portland. On Wed and Sat there is even a farmers market with lots of fresh produce, cheese, and a host of other delectables. A good place to find the days lunch, as well. A gateway to PSU, it's surrounded by churches, The Portland Art Museum, the Schnitzer Auditorium, and other cultural Portlandia attractions. There's a lot of good diversity in the people watching as well, ranging from students to well,,, Portland's own plentiful supply of the downtrodden. Whatever you're looking for it's to be found here. Spend just one afternoon in the South Park Blocks and I guarantee you will want to return. read more

A mini-nature fix to be found amidst Portland's lively downtown. This portion of the Park Blocks is one block wide and runs north-south the length of downtown starting at Portland state University. During Farmer's Market season, its a nice relaxing way to get to & from the PSU Farmer's Market on the weekends. During the week it can provide a small respite from the city. Portions of the park are run down and not really inviting for a long rest on a park bench. However, its nice to walk through the park and observe the various architecture of the surrounding buildings while being shaded by old trees, and to explore the many sculptures scattered through the Park Blocks. Despite the fact that the Park Blocks might seem like a good place to run (since it runs most of the length of downtown) I would NOT recommend it for running. The park is interrupted by buildings too frequently, and you'll have to stop at almost every street in order to cross safely. Further, the sidewalks in the park are narrow and often scattered with slower moving travelers. read more

Although parking seems tough, somehow a spot just magically appears. Great spot when it's hot as the lined trees provide nice effective coverage. It's flanked by some retail shops, some of which could use a rotation or upgrade. Vendors who sell ready-to-eat are not cheap. Get ready for $7 tamales and $9 burgers. More uniformed patrol is welcomed. On the one hand we enjoy freedom of speech. On the other, this gives any idiot the privilege to loudly spout - without any regard for others - their opinion. Just yell and scream to satisfy that need to be right even when nobody is listening. read more

I was staring up at Teddy Roosevelt's horse early this morning and I got to wondering, how could this spot in a city full of many reputable cultural destinations stick out so much to me? How is it that I can say, with my hand on my heart, that this is my favorite place in Portland? Maybe it's all about roots, both literally and symbolically. Acquired in 1869, The South Park Blocks used to be the western edge of Portland. What began as a roadway for the city turned into a prominent public green space (sound familiar Waterfront Park?) Over time it became the top location for people to live and relax within "a cathedral of trees with a simple floor of grass". Today, while the mansions, Masonic temples, and marks of the elite have made way for churches, hotels, museums, and schools, the 12 blocks of green remain unchanged, save for the periodic addition of a work of art gifted to the city like Proctor's "Theodore Roosevelt - Rough Rider". Growing up in the area, I always imagined that the South Park Blocks must be exactly what Central Park in New York City would be like. But now that I've been to both I realize that our park ( a measly 1/100 of the size of the NYC urban counterpart) is so much simpler, and for that a true success. Between the busy one way streets full of delivery trucks trying to get to the Schnitzer, school buses unloading kids at the art museum, PSU students running to class, and construction going on all around, a bit of refuge is appreciated. Where one can stop and smell the roses (just don't pick them, it's a $500 fine!), or sit on an old wooden bench for a coffee or lunch break and watch people try to figure out that Roy Lichtenstein sculpture that looks vaguely like colorized flying bacon... Yes, there are certainly more flashy 21st Century places in Portland, and when it comes right down to it, the South Park Blocks are actually quite forgettable. It's not fancy, or swank, or hip. The 132 year old poplars and elms that flank the buckling pathways and donated artwork are tired and worn. But as I stood here, happy for a break from the rain and a cup of tea from a cafe close at hand, I tried to remember that famous pearl of wisdom about gratitude... what was it again? Oh yeah... Never look a gift horse in the mouth. read more

Today I saw a squirrel in the park; it was running, jumping, appeared somewhat nervous around people...it was also a man - yes, a man in a squirrel suit. Welcome to Portland, and no, I'm not making this up. I live near the South Park Blocks and love them. These parks are part of what makes Portland so awesome - abundant green space and public recreation areas. Walking through these parks in the summer, with all their greenery, grass, and flowers, feels like you're walking through the forest, yet you're in the heart of the city. Not only is it a great place to enjoy nature, you can also learn something from the various statues and sculptures throughout the park, or by reading a book on one of the many benches. There's also a lot to do here; you have the famous Portland Farmers Market (located at the PSU end of the blocks) and countless events, concerts, etc. happening weekly. The demographic is 85% friendly Portlanders walking their dogs, reading books, or enjoying lunch from the near by carts; and 15% crazy homeless people. I've said it once and I'll say it again, Portland would be a near utopia if it wasn't for all the homeless and the South Park Blocks reflect that. Like most awesome places in Portland the homeless like to congregate here. Plan on being hit up a few times for money, drugs, or booze while you're enjoying your time here. Also enjoy some of the free entertainment as the especially crazy ones scream at the abundant CIA trees that continually monitor them - so beautiful yet so sinister. Seriously though, grab a book and a few bucks for a killer cart lunch and hit up one of the places that makes Portland one of the best places in the world to live. read more

A bit longer than the North Park Blocks, and so much more lovely! I passed it twice a day on bus from Hawthorne to downtown. Then on a Saturday midday, I decided to check out the park I passed by everyday. So I got off the #14 bus and walked a couple of blocks to the park. Fortunately the bus stopped at the northern end of this park. And even more so, I came on a farmer market day! How fortunate I came on the right day! I brought a few goodies, ate them all while I looked at the product, tried some of the samples. It was as if I was in paradise if not heaven! The vendors were so kind, the people there as nice as them, and when I decided I had enough, I brought one more goody and sat at one of the benches a block away to watch all of the people walk by. I expected the park to end just a few blocks from where the market was but to my surprise, the park goes all the way to Portland State University! I have visited PSU before but I thought the park was a very long, narrow "quad" surrounded and crisscrossed by streets. Boy I was impressed! It's as if the university wand the city is a part of each other! More reason for me to live in Portland! read more

Portland gets so much mileage out of urban green space. There are just so many great shady lawns, open benches, and stately trees all along these streets. I could do with fewer shouty bums, but they're not the park's fault. This is a great place to sit and relax, eat lunch, catch up on your phone, or otherwise enjoy the benefits of fresh air in a setting that's pretty claustrophobic with commerce. It's easy to imagine combining a stroll here with some culturally edifying activity at a museum or theater nearby, on the way to a good meal. Dig the metropolitan vibe here. It's a great combination of history, architecture, activity, and tranquility. read more

It has been 2 years since I wrote my review about living by the South Park Blocks and as you can see, I have downgraded the rating by one star. Yep, the homeless situation has gotten progressively worse--to the point it is affecting all of us emotionally, physically, and financially living around the park or those who use it. Needles in the grass, human and animal waste on the sidewalks and park lawn, and garbage everywhere--the harassment is the least of the issues at this point. These are just the facts, I am not making a moral judgement--it isn't humane for anybody--both homeless and those with homes. The reality is that the outcome is not going to be a positive one unless things change. read more

I fell in love with the South Park Blocks on my first visit to Portland for a job interview. When I moved to Portland, I ended up living right on Park Avenue. I love the old trees, the farmers markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the art. I even enjoy most of the people who take advantage of the SPB. The new Portland Loo has attracted more of, uhh, a certain element, but I'm glad the urine is going there instead of doorways. The parking situation sucks much of the time, which does not amuse my few visitors, but that's a small price to pay. read more

Wandering aimlessly around downtown Portland on a recent visit to the city, I was pulled along through the green spaces of the South Park Blocks by the sound of live music. Turned out that The Kingsmen (of Louie Louie fame) were performing outside of the Oregon History Museum to celebrate the grand opening of the Oregon Rocks! exhibit. No shit! The show itself was sold out, but I could hear the music just fine from the park and lingered there enjoying the trees, flowers, sculptures, and excellent people-watching opportunities that only a park in the heart of downtown Portland can provide. The tall, shady trees also provided a welcome respite from the hot August sunshine. read more

It would be a lot better to hang out here if there weren't so many homeless and drug addicts. You can tell there is a great effort to make this a great oasis in the city... Too bad so many scummies loitering about. read more

So nice -- on a nice day. If you're visiting Portland on a Saturday you must visit the farmers market here.

My favorite part of Portland...so close to the city center but yet feels so different and special. The trees that line the main walking route (which runs right thru the middle of the park, north to south) are amazing and keep the park cool and shaded in the summer. The art museum, psu, and my favorite starbucks in town are along these blocks. What a wonderful part of the city! read more

Oh beautiful Park Blocks!!! How you calm me on my walks to work!!!

Its a nice place to walk, talk, people watch, eat your ice or drink your coffee. You can got on a date, take your kiddos or walk you dog. There are a lot of great coffee shops and places to eat nearby. You can stroll around the block several times and not tire of them. read more

One of the coolest things about Portland is the park blocks. It's like an anti-freeway running through downtown, with great farmers markets, people enjoying lunch from a food cart, reading a book or reading something on their phones, and some just people watching. It's a great asset to the city that many people don't seem to notice is there nor take the time to appreciate. read more

it's a nice little stretch going down along this path with benches right along it. there are some sculptures here and there you can admire as you walk through this little green promenade. i liked the lincoln statue! read more