South Park Blocks

Introduction

The South Park Blocks in southwest downtown Portland are a sequence of five city-block parks planned by Portland urban planning pioneer Daniel Burnham and architect Lawrence Halprin, Portland's most European-style open space. Stretching about 1.5 kilometers, the five blocks each have distinct character: the first features a Lincoln statue and historic monuments; the second and third have flower beds, lawns, and benches where office workers gather at lunch; the fourth extends Portland State University campus with student events and art installations; the fifth is framed by performing arts theaters and historic buildings. Lined with late 19th- and early 20th-century brownstone churches, hotels, and apartments, the blocks offer dense shade and refined flower beds, Portland's most Parisian boulevard atmosphere. Lunch hours, weekend farmers markets, and summer outdoor concerts make the South Park Blocks a vivid stage of Portland urban life.

✨ Highlights

🛈 Practical Info