Three Fabulous Neighborhood Parks Along the I-205 Corridor

Neighborhood parks are like hidden treasures tucked away amidst our bustling communities. They can offer a tranquil retreat from the urban bustle, a vast runway for your dog to get her zoomies out, or an imaginative space for your little one to simply be a kid!

The quality of life in Portland wouldn’t be so high if it weren’t for the community’s dedication to its natural, open-air green spaces. Not only do we boast one of the largest urban forests in the US (Forest Park), but almost every home in this city is within walking distance of a neighborhood park. If you live in Portland, you can rest assured you won’t have to go far to find your local park. 

With two rambunctious kids to wrangle, I’ve visited my fair share of parks in this city. Let me tell you about three of my fave lesser-known parks in my local stomping grounds, just east of the I-205 corridor:

Ventura Park: a large newer play structure awaits the young ones with creative minds, with a sliding turf hill, a dirt bike track, and a water station. There’s a picnic area, and dogs are allowed on-leash. There’s also a big grassy area to set up a sports game or chill in the shade and have a picnic. Located in Hazelwood/Mill Park neighborhood, 460 SE 113th Ave, Portland OR 97216.

Gateway Discovery Park: A fab gathering place for groups large and small, this inclusive playground is accessible to children of all abilities. There’s a skate park, and a splash pad for those extra warm summer days. Dogs are allowed 0n-leash. Located in Hazelwood/Parkrose Heights neighborhood, 10520 NE Halsey St, Portland OR 97220.

 

Luuwit View Park: With a separate fenced off-leashed dog area, this park is a great place to ensure fun for the entire family – furry friends included! Theres an impressive amphitheater, a newer accessible play area with with soft rubber flooring, a big slide and climbing structure. There is also a picnic area, extensive bike and foot paths, and best of all an expansive view Mt. St Helens! Located in Argay Terrace neighborhood, NE 127th and NE Fremont, Portland OR 97230.

 

Want more neighborhood park recommendations here in Portland? Looking for the best summer splashpads? Reach out, and let’s chat!

This SE Portland Park Has it All!

Mt. Scott Park is a true Portland gem. Established in 1922, it boasts 11.2 acres of greenspace and outdoor fun. The park was named for Harvey W. Scott, editor of The Oregonian newspaper in the late 1800s.

Located at SE 72nd Avenue and Harold Street, this park has all the amenities you could want including:

  • Accessible Picnic Area
  • Accessible Play Area
  • Accessible Restroom
  • Horseshoe Pit
  • Picnic Table
  • Playground
  • Paths (paved & unpaved)
  • Softball Field

To reserve a sports field or picnic area, call 503-823-2525. Picnic Sites and Info.

Mt. Scott Park is also home to the Mt. Scott Community Center. The center has an amazing pool with a Spiral Water Slide and also offers:

  • Fitness Room
  • Gymnasium
  • Preschool Program
  • Roller Skating
  • Weight Room
  • Wireless Internet Access (WiFi)
  • Stage (Indoor)
  • Basketball Court (Indoor)

The Mt. Scott Community Center is scheduled for and expansion and upgrades. Read about the project details and timeline. It will be great to see the project completed to keep this community resource thriving. See you at the Park!


As an Earth Advantage Principal Broker, David serves buyers and sellers alike with his 20+ years of experience as a broker and investor.

His experience includes residential, commercial, investment property, and multi-family housing. He is a consistent multi-million dollar producer for whom smart, personalized client service is key. Over 90 percent of his ongoing business is referred from satisfied clients.