South Park Blocks

The South Park Blocks comprise twelve blocks of green space in downtown Portland with mature trees and paved walkways throughout. Multiple public sculptures and artworks are positioned along the route, including the 1926 Shemanski Fountain featuring ornamental drinking basins.

Daniel Lownsdale established the space in 1852 as Portland was still developing, setting aside eleven narrow blocks for public use. The layout has remained largely unchanged through the city's modern expansion.

The space serves as a gathering place for the community, bordered by university buildings, museums, and churches. This setting makes it a location where different groups come together for events and daily activities.

The park provides drinking fountains, benches, and paved pathways for easy movement and resting. The various artworks and central location make it straightforward to explore the space at a leisurely pace.

The space earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places while keeping its original layout intact for more than 170 years. This continuity makes it an uncommon example of early urban planning thinking preserved amid contemporary development.

Location: Portland

Website: https://portland.gov/parks/south-park-blocks

GPS coordinates: 45.51110,-122.68600

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41