Washington Park - Portland, OR
Washington Park: A Scenic, Dog-Friendly Destination in Portland, Oregon
Washington Park is a vast, iconic destination in Portland, Oregon, offering much more than your typical city park experience. While not officially a designated dog park, it’s known for being dog-friendly and features expansive grassy fields, forested pet-friendly trails, and plenty of space for dogs to play, fetch, or enjoy a walk with their humans. The park’s sheer size, beautiful Rose Garden, towering trees offering late-afternoon shade, and well-kept paths make it perfect for dog owners seeking a relaxing day out in nature with their pets. Visitors mention that there’s a community of friendly dog owners who gather daily, and dogs on leash are a common and welcome sight throughout the park.
Not only does Washington Park provide gorgeous hiking and walking trails, but it also features amenities like playgrounds, picnic tables, benches, and convenient access to public transit via the MAX Red Line. While the park doesn’t have an official off-leash fenced dog area, it’s great for on-leash adventures and there is access to water nearby for those dogs that love to swim or wade. The park is regularly maintained, with clean fields and waste bags provided. Paid parking, shaded areas, and a lively local atmosphere add to the comfort and appeal for both dogs and their owners. With its proximity to major Portland attractions, this park stands out as a must-visit for anyone looking for dog-friendly hiking and recreation in the heart of the city.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? There is no official off-leash dog area, but some owners do let their dogs off-leash in the fields. Please note that the park is not formally designated as off-leash and on-leash is recommended.
- Are there poop bags or waste stations provided? Yes, waste bags are available, and the park is generally regarded as clean and well-maintained.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, plenty of tall trees provide afternoon shade throughout the park.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are picnic tables and benches throughout the area, especially near playgrounds and fields.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Washington Park features a variety of scenic walking and hiking trails, perfect for dog-friendly outings.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There is access to natural water areas where dogs have been seen swimming or wading, but owners should use caution based on river conditions.
- Where is the best place to park? Paid parking is available along the road and near local attractions within the park.
- Is public transportation available to the park? Yes, the MAX Red Line stops at Washington Park Station, providing easy public transit access.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park includes playgrounds and other family-friendly features.
- Are there trash bins available? Yes, trash cans are located throughout the park for waste disposal.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, reviewers commend the park for its regular upkeep and cleanliness.
Reviews
An amazing walk through the Japanese gardens on multiple layers. The view of Mount Hood was absolutely beautiful! A peaceful walk in a beautiful garden?
An amazing walk through the Japanese gardens on multiple layers. The view of Mount Hood was absolutely beautiful! A peaceful walk in a beautiful gardenNULL
Portland is a beautiful city. Washington Park is just one of its many treasures. We visited the Japanese Garden and got a chance to hear Japanese string music played. It was like being transported to another place and time. The walk through the garden is spiritually recharging. Hubby and I experienced the calm, peace and restoration of Shinrin yoku or forest bathing. We finished our garden walk at the gift shop where they sell such curious items and inspired books. We rode the shuttle around the park to see the other attractions like the zoo and the Discovery museum. We were sad we didn’t get to visit all of the attractions for lack of time.
Portland is a beautiful city. Washington Park is just one of its many treasures. We visited the Japanese Garden and got a chance to hear Japanese string music played. It was like being transported to another place and time. The walk through the garden is spiritually recharging. Hubby and I experienced the calm, peace and restoration of Shinrin yoku or forest bathing. We finished our garden walk at the gift shop where they sell such curious items and inspired books. We rode the shuttle around the park to see the other attractions like the zoo and the Discovery museum. We were sad we didn’t get to visit all of the attractions for lack of time.
The park is huge!!!
I rode Maxi red line and got off right at the Washington Park station. The trail is underground but there are elevators that can buying you to the street level. I’m surprised how deep the rails are running underground.
You will see Oregon zoo right outside. It’s around ? dollar reasonable price. I hiked the Wildwood trail. It’s a little challenging for some portion of the trail but I managed to walk all the way back to the rose garden playground. The ride garden is free.
The park is huge!!!
I rode Maxi red line and got off right at the Washington Park station. The trail is underground but there are elevators that can buying you to the street level. I’m surprised how deep the rails are running underground.
You will see Oregon zoo right outside. It’s around NULL dollar reasonable price. I hiked the Wildwood trail. It’s a little challenging for some portion of the trail but I managed to walk all the way back to the rose garden playground. The ride garden is free.
Our day trip from Seattle led us straight into a dream at the Portland International Rose Garden in Washington Park. The moment we stepped in, it felt like walking onto the set of a romance movie…roses in every shade imaginable, perfectly cared for, their fragrance floating through the air like a love spell. Every turn revealed another picture-perfect scene, as if the garden itself wanted to be admired. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, where you can wander hand in hand and feel completely wrapped in beauty. Even the practical side is easy, with plenty of paid parking along the road, so the magic begins the moment you arrive. Truly a garden made for memories.
Our day trip from Seattle led us straight into a dream at the Portland International Rose Garden in Washington Park. The moment we stepped in, it felt like walking onto the set of a romance movie…roses in every shade imaginable, perfectly cared for, their fragrance floating through the air like a love spell. Every turn revealed another picture-perfect scene, as if the garden itself wanted to be admired. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, where you can wander hand in hand and feel completely wrapped in beauty. Even the practical side is easy, with plenty of paid parking along the road, so the magic begins the moment you arrive. Truly a garden made for memories.
Roses are my favorite so of course I had to visit the Rose Garden. I enjoyed walking through the gardens and smelling all the different roses. The amphitheater was perfect for a break. The walk from the parking lot was very enjoyable. There’s a free trolley you can get on to make your way to the zoo and Japanese gardens too.
Roses are my favorite so of course I had to visit the Rose Garden. I enjoyed walking through the gardens and smelling all the different roses. The amphitheater was perfect for a break. The walk from the parking lot was very enjoyable. There’s a free trolley you can get on to make your way to the zoo and Japanese gardens too.