Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Overview

Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a 1.8-km linear park along the west bank of the Willamette River in downtown Portland. Built on a former harbor freeway, it connects the Steel Bridge to the Hawthorne Bridge and hosts the city's major festivals.

Highlights

• Salmon Street Springs: An interactive fountain popular with families in summer.
• Festival Hub: Home to the Portland Rose Festival, Waterfront Blues Fest, and Cinco de Mayo.
• River Walk: The paved path is Portland's most popular walking and running route.

History

Before the park, Harbor Drive ran along the waterfront. Portland became the first major American city to remove a waterfront highway in 1974. The park, named after Governor Tom McCall, opened in 1978 and set a precedent for urban waterfront reclamation.

Visitor Tips

• Walk or run the full length from the Steel Bridge to the Hawthorne Bridge.
• Summer festivals transform the park nearly every weekend.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes.