Laurelhurst Park
A 32-acre urban sanctuary with a serene pond, lush trails, and vibrant summer comedy shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free comedy shows!
Laurelhurst Park
Best Time
Free comedy shows!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 32-acre urban sanctuary with a serene pond, lush trails, and vibrant summer comedy shows.
"Crazy amount of lagoon like water in the middle of the city! Like a slice of some oil painting."
🎯 Free Summer Comedy
Catch free stand-up comedy every Friday evening in summer. Bring a blanket and arrive early!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the park's rolling hills and trails with comfy shoes. Great for walks and runs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Comedy in the Park
Main lawn area
Free stand-up comedy every Friday evening in the summer. A beloved local tradition for a fun, relaxed night out.
The Serene Pond
Center of the park
A beautiful, tranquil pond surrounded by greenery, perfect for wildlife spotting and peaceful contemplation.
Lush Walking Trails
Throughout the park
Meandering paths through mature trees and rolling hills offer a peaceful escape and great opportunities for a scenic walk.
Off-Leash Dog Area
Designated section
A dedicated space for dogs to run and play freely, making it a favorite spot for pet owners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Summer Evenings & Free Fun
Explore the Natural Beauty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Summer Comedy
Catch free stand-up comedy every Friday evening in summer. Bring a blanket and arrive early! +2
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the park's rolling hills and trails with comfy shoes. Great for walks and runs.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas make it ideal for a relaxed meal. +1
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Enjoy the dedicated off-leash dog area. Your furry friends will love it!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Summer Comedy
Catch free stand-up comedy every Friday evening in summer. Bring a blanket and arrive early! +2
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the park's rolling hills and trails with comfy shoes. Great for walks and runs.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas make it ideal for a relaxed meal. +1
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Enjoy the dedicated off-leash dog area. Your furry friends will love it!
🌸 Spring Bloom Views
Visit in spring to see the park's beautiful rhodies and lush greenery. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Laurelhurst Park is widely praised as a beautiful and serene urban oasis, offering a peaceful escape with its picturesque pond, mature trees, and rolling hills. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds, ample picnic areas, and the popular free summer comedy shows. While generally loved, some mention the pond's fishing status can be unclear.
"Crazy amount of lagoon like water in the middle of the city! Like a slice of some oil painting during the middle of the day. A lot of folks sitting and enjoying to he view, seems like the space is well respected. You can see fish it's really cool"
Rosie Lusby
"I did not realize just how huge this gorgeous park is!! Lots of grass rolling hills covered with huge trees! I think i saw people playing on a "pickleball" court by the tennis court. There are working n open restrooms in the green buildings. Bicyclists, rollerblading, a person in an electric wheelchair, people walking n skipping. Benches n picnic tables throughout this beautifully maintained park. 🌹🌹🌹🌹"
Rachel Proper (IsRachel)
"What an amazing park. Great walking paths, plenty of benches and an off leash dog area. It's hard to believe it's in the middle of everything going on and yet your in a peaceful place."
waterdog
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laurelhurst Park is located in Southeast Portland. You can reach it by car, with free street parking available. Public transportation options are also accessible via bus routes that stop nearby.
Yes, there is free street parking available around the park. It can get busy, especially during popular events like the summer comedy shows, so arriving early is recommended.
Several TriMet bus lines serve the area around Laurelhurst Park. Check the TriMet website for the most current routes and schedules that best suit your starting point.
The park has paved paths and accessible restrooms, making it generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Some natural trails may be uneven.
Absolutely! Laurelhurst Park is bike-friendly, with paths that connect to the city's cycling network. Bike racks may be available, or you can secure your bike to a post.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Laurelhurst Park is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy. There are no admission fees. +1
Laurelhurst Park is open daily from 5 AM to 10:30 PM, offering ample time to enjoy its beauty.
The 'Comedy in the Park' shows held on summer Fridays are free and do not require tickets. It's first-come, first-served for seating. +1
During the summer, free comedy shows are a major draw. Keep an eye on local event listings for other potential community gatherings or classes held in the park.
Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For larger gatherings, consider arriving early or having a backup plan. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, jogging, picnicking, wildlife viewing at the pond, playing in the off-leash dog area, and attending free summer comedy shows. There are also sports facilities like tennis and pickleball courts.
Yes, there are public restrooms located within the park, typically in green buildings, which are maintained and open for visitors.
Absolutely! Families love the playground, the pond for wildlife spotting, and the open spaces for running and playing.
While some visitors have observed fishing, signs may indicate it's not permitted. It's best to check local regulations or observe if others are actively fishing.
The park's pond is home to ducks, fish, and turtles, offering delightful opportunities for wildlife observation.
📸 📸 Photography
The pond with its reflections, the mature trees, and the blooming rhododendrons in spring offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The open lawns are also great for capturing people enjoying the park.
Yes, the open spaces and the pond create lovely lighting during golden hour, making it a great time for photography.
Drone usage in city parks often has restrictions. It's advisable to check Portland Parks & Recreation regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
The central pond and the large, old trees are iconic features. The park's natural beauty itself serves as the main photographic draw.
Spring offers vibrant blooms, while summer provides lush greenery and lively events. Autumn brings colorful foliage, and winter offers a serene, often misty, atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many tables or on the open lawns. The walking paths are also great for strollers, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for all ages. Consider attending a 'Comedy in the Park' show for a fun, free evening activity.
🐶 Dog Owners
While the off-leash area is a highlight, remember that dogs must be leashed in other parts of the park. Always be mindful of other park visitors and ensure your dog is well-behaved.
🚶♀️ Active Individuals & Runners
Beyond the trails, the park also features sports facilities, including tennis courts and pickleball courts, catering to various athletic interests. It's a great place to combine a workout with enjoying the natural surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Rich History of Greenery
The park's landscape features mature trees that contribute to its serene and shaded atmosphere. These towering giants provide a sense of established tranquility, making it a beloved spot for relaxation and nature appreciation. The park's design emphasizes natural beauty, with rolling hills and open lawns that invite visitors to connect with the outdoors.
+1Beyond its natural elements, Laurelhurst Park has also been a venue for community events. The 'Comedy in the Park' series, a popular summer tradition, draws large crowds, showcasing the park's role as a vibrant community gathering space. This blend of historical significance and contemporary use makes Laurelhurst Park a multifaceted urban gem.
Summer Evenings: Comedy & Community
Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and set up on the lawn to enjoy sets from local comedians. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a perfect way to spend a summer evening. It's a testament to the park's role in fostering community engagement and providing accessible cultural experiences.
This popular event highlights the park's versatility, offering more than just natural beauty. It serves as a stage for local talent and a gathering place for residents, solidifying its status as a cherished community asset. Arriving early is key to securing a good viewing spot for these highly attended shows.
Wildlife and Water Features
This pond is teeming with life, providing a habitat for various species. Visitors often spot ducks gliding across the surface, turtles basking in the sun, and fish swimming beneath the water. It's a delightful spot for families, especially children, to engage with nature and observe local wildlife.
While some have noted fishing activity, it's worth noting that official regulations might vary. Regardless, the pond remains a key attraction, contributing to the park's reputation as a peaceful urban escape where nature's presence is strongly felt.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit