The park is named after Tom McCall, the Oregon governor who championed the removal of the riverfront freeway.
The Japanese American Historical Plaza honors the history of Japanese immigrants and their internment during World War II.
It houses the hull of the sternwheeler Portland, one of the last remaining examples of its kind in the United States.
The Salmon Street Springs fountain uses a recirculating water system that features various preset patterns and spray intensities.
The park's creation was a landmark decision in the 1970s that shifted urban planning priorities from automotive infrastructure to public green space.
During the summer, the park hosts the largest outdoor festival circuit in the city, including the Waterfront Blues Festival.
The park integrates with the Hawthorne Bridge, which holds the record as the oldest vertical-lift bridge in the United States.
The Battleship Oregon Memorial is located within the park to commemorate the U.S. Navy vessel that served in the Spanish-American War.
Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a 30-acre linear park situated along the west bank of the Willamette River in downtown Portland. It replaces a former major freeway, the Harbor Drive, which was demolished in 1974 to create this public space. The park serves as the primary venue for major city events, including the Oregon Brewers Festival and the Rose Festival. It contains a diverse collection of memorials, including the Japanese American Historical Plaza and the Oregon Maritime Museum. The park’s layout features a mix of paved esplanades and grassy meadows stretching from the Steel Bridge to the Hawthorne Bridge. It is a critical component of Portland’s riverfront revitalization efforts, offering uninterrupted pedestrian and cycle paths. The site remains a central hub for civic life and recreation in the urban core.
The Salmon Street Springs fountain, specifically when the water patterns are active with the city skyline in the background.
Visit during weekday mornings to avoid heavy crowds and enjoy quieter river views.
Check the city park calendar before visiting, as large festivals frequently close off sections of the park.
Use the dedicated paved multi-use paths for walking or cycling to avoid heavy foot traffic on the grass.
Do not leave valuables in vehicles parked on nearby streets; avoid visiting during peak summer festival dates if you prefer a peaceful experience.
Open year-round; however, portions of the park are periodically closed or restricted for large-scale municipal events and festivals.
Stay on marked paths when cycling; keep dogs on a leash at all times; dispose of waste in provided bins to maintain riverfront health.
