Burnside Park
An iconic skate park beneath the Burnside Bridge, also featuring a statue of General Ambrose Burnside and a central fountain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Skate park buzz, fewer crowds
Burnside Park
Best Time
Skate park buzz, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic skate park beneath the Burnside Bridge, also featuring a statue of General Ambrose Burnside and a central fountain.
"This park is a skater's paradise and a gritty urban hub, offering a unique Portland experience."
Skate Park Etiquette
Respect the skaters! Watch, learn, and wait your turn. It's a skater-built park, so their rules apply. :skate:
Be Aware of Surroundings
Downtown Portland can be gritty. Stay alert, especially at night, and be mindful of the homeless population. :eyes:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Burnside Skate Park
Under the Burnside Bridge
An iconic, skater-built mecca. Feel the raw energy and witness incredible talent at this legendary spot.
Ambrose Burnside Statue
Center of the park
A stately bronze equestrian statue of Civil War General Ambrose Burnside, a focal point of the park.
Central Fountain
Park plaza
A refreshing urban oasis, perfect for a moment of calm amidst the city bustle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Skate Park or City Oasis?
Navigating Portland's Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Skate Park Etiquette
Respect the skaters! Watch, learn, and wait your turn. It's a skater-built park, so their rules apply. :skate:
Be Aware of Surroundings
Downtown Portland can be gritty. Stay alert, especially at night, and be mindful of the homeless population. :eyes:
Check for Events
Burnside Park hosts various events, from skate jams to community gatherings. Check local listings! :calendar:
Parking Pointers
Parking can be tough. Consider public transit or the Smart Park garages. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Skate Park Etiquette
Respect the skaters! Watch, learn, and wait your turn. It's a skater-built park, so their rules apply. :skate:
Be Aware of Surroundings
Downtown Portland can be gritty. Stay alert, especially at night, and be mindful of the homeless population. :eyes:
Check for Events
Burnside Park hosts various events, from skate jams to community gatherings. Check local listings! :calendar:
Parking Pointers
Parking can be tough. Consider public transit or the Smart Park garages. :car:
Respect the Space
This park is a community hub. Keep it clean and be considerate of others. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Burnside Park is a dual-purpose space, celebrated for its iconic skate park and its role as a downtown public area. Visitors praise the legendary skate park's atmosphere and the historical significance of the Ambrose Burnside statue. However, some reviews express concern over the park's cleanliness and the visible presence of homelessness and drug use, particularly during evening hours.
"1st time visiting providence and the state in general. This park was my 2nd stop along my journey of checking out the city. There's currently some construction going on so part of the park is closed off. There's a cool water fountain and statue. They do performance and host events there aswell. It's a cool little park in the center of the city."
Mikeyy Lunarezz
"We like to visit with the kids this playground when we come here from Boston.
Last time we came around 7pm on Saturday. I must admit it was a little scarier to be there. I didn't feel safe at all. There were rats around the fountain, in all the trash cans and on the playground. The park was full with junkies and homeless people.
I do understand that they don't have any place to live, but the city should solve somehow this problem and help these people."
Rose Davis
"We loved going skating
My kids had a great time in there
Little hard to get a parking spot though"
Lilian Estrada
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burnside Park is centrally located in downtown Portland, easily accessible by public transportation. The MAX Light Rail has several nearby stations, including Pioneer Square. Several bus lines also stop close to the park. If driving, consider using a Smart Park garage, such as the one at 10th and Yamhill, and then taking the MAX one stop to the park.
Parking directly around Burnside Park can be challenging and expensive. Several paid parking garages are available nearby, including the Smart Park at 10th and Yamhill. Street parking is also an option but often has time limits and can be scarce.
Yes, biking is a great way to reach Burnside Park. Portland is a bike-friendly city, and there are bike lanes and racks available. The park's central location makes it accessible from many parts of the city. :bike:
While Burnside Park is a public space, some visitors have noted concerns about the presence of homeless individuals and drug use, particularly in the evenings. Families might feel more comfortable visiting during daylight hours or when events are taking place.
The best way to experience Burnside Park depends on your interests. If you're a skater, dedicate time to the iconic skate park. If not, enjoy the statue, fountain, and the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Portland.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Burnside Park is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to access and enjoy the amenities. :ticket:
Burnside Park is generally open to the public from early morning until late evening. Specific hours can vary, but it's typically accessible from dawn until dusk. :clock:
Yes, the Burnside Skate Park is open to all skateboarders, BMX riders, and inline skaters. It was built by skaters for skaters and is a community-driven space.
There are no entry fees for the Burnside Skate Park. It's a free public facility for everyone to use. :moneywithwings:
While dogs are generally allowed in Portland parks, it's important to keep them on a leash at all times. Be mindful of other park visitors and the skate park users. :dog:
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Beyond the famous skate park, Burnside Park features a statue of General Ambrose Burnside, a central fountain, and open green spaces. It's a place for people-watching and experiencing the urban pulse of Portland.
The park has a playground area that kids can enjoy. However, visitors have noted concerns about the presence of homeless individuals and drug use, which might be a consideration for families.
Burnside Park is a venue for various events, including skate competitions, community gatherings, and sometimes music performances. It's worth checking local event listings for any happenings during your visit.
Public restrooms are typically available within Burnside Park, though their condition and availability can vary. It's always a good idea to be prepared. :toilet:
Burnside Park is most famous for the Burnside Skate Park, which was built by skaters in the mid-1990s on underutilized land beneath the Burnside Bridge. It has since become an iconic landmark in skateboarding culture.
📸 📸 Photography
The skate park itself offers dynamic shots of skaters in action. The Ambrose Burnside statue and the central fountain provide classic park photography subjects. The bridge overhead also offers unique perspectives.
As a public park, photography is generally permitted. However, always be respectful of individuals' privacy. If you plan to photograph skaters, it's courteous to ask for their permission, especially if you intend to share the images widely.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the park's architecture and the statue. Late afternoons can provide dramatic lighting with the bridge casting shadows. Evenings can be vibrant with city lights. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage in urban parks can be restricted due to airspace regulations and privacy concerns. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Portland Parks & Recreation department before flying a drone in the park. :drone:
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide shots of the park and tighter action shots of skaters. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the skate park's scale. Consider a fast prime lens for low-light conditions. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Skateboarders & Action Sports Enthusiasts
+1 Remember to respect the skate park etiquette: watch, wait your turn, and be mindful of the dedicated community. :skate:Pro-Tip: Arrive during peak hours for the most vibrant scene, but weekday afternoons offer a slightly less crowded experience for practice. Be ready for a raw, authentic experience – this isn't a manicured tourist attraction, but a true skater's paradise.
Families with Kids
Recommendation: For a more traditionally family-friendly park experience in Portland, consider alternatives like Washington Park or Laurelhurst Park, which are known for their playgrounds and more serene environments. If you do visit Burnside, keep your visit focused and perhaps combine it with other downtown attractions during the day.
Budget Travelers
Tip: Pack your own snacks and water to save money, as food options immediately around the park might be limited or pricey. Utilize Portland's public transportation, like the MAX light rail, to reach the park affordably, rather than paying for expensive downtown parking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Burnside Skate Park
Visiting Burnside offers a glimpse into a vibrant subculture. You'll witness incredible skill and dedication, often accompanied by music and a palpable sense of community. While it's a public park, the unwritten rules of skate etiquette are paramount. Respect the skaters, their space, and their craft. Even if you don't skate, the energy and artistry on display are captivating.
+1It's important to note that Burnside Park, like much of downtown Portland, can attract a diverse crowd, including individuals experiencing homelessness. While many visitors report respectful interactions, awareness of your surroundings is advised, especially during off-peak hours.
Beyond the Skaters: Burnside Park's Urban Role
The park's location near the Burnside Bridge makes it a busy thoroughfare and a place where various community activities can occur. It has been a site for protests and marches, highlighting its role as a public forum.
While some reviews mention concerns about cleanliness and the presence of individuals experiencing homelessness, the park remains a vital part of the downtown core, offering a space for recreation and reflection amidst the urban environment. For those not interested in skateboarding, the park offers a chance to observe city life, enjoy a moment by the fountain, or simply take a break. It's a place where different facets of Portland converge, from athletic pursuits to historical monuments and everyday urban existence.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit