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I love visiting Cathedral Park anytime of the year. The views, especially of the St. Johns Bridge are incredible. Lots of places to go on a walk, picnic or simply enjoy the views. There is also plenty of parking and the park is spacious.
We really enjoyed this park. It was beautiful! Nice big trees and great pathways to walk. It was spacious too. The park is so clean. You can tell it is well taken care of. The views of St. John Bridge is wonderful too! Also, parking was so easy. They have a parking lot, but also lots of street parking on all parts of the park. We definitely enjoyed our little relaxation here. Great spot for a picnic or a walk.
I like visiting Cathedral Park when we're in Portland. It's usually quiet, not too crowded, and I love the views of the St. Johns Bridge, Willamette River, and surrounding landscape. The park has a small parking lot and bathrooms, and plenty of space for walking. The swim dock is great for getting even closer to the bridge. Overall, just a nice place to spend some time with beautiful views.
They host the annual jazz fest here which is free but they ask for donations to keep things going. Fabulous event around one of my most favorite Portland bridges. They also just put in a new million dollar dock that you can get out into the river and ever go swimming in an area protected from the motorized boats. They have picnic tables and even a small beach. Great place to just hang out!
This is a very pretty area, and there's even parts of it where you can go near the water. I remember parking being easy to find too, but the also partially being a bit confused finding the area itself while driving in because the surrounding area felt a bit industrial. It was a bit windy the day I went, so it would not have been nice to stay their too long. But if you're looking for scenic areas to view, especially in the Portland area, because of the well-kept park area and also the bridge, I would recommend this place !
This is a great spot for some walks, looking at St. John's bridge, or even having a picnic. Has a good amount of parking at the park, and some nice walking trails.
This is a great stop to check out the St. John's Bridge. It was early in the morning, so there was still parking available in the boat launch parking lot. It's a great place to take pictures. There were the occasionally dog walkers crossing our paths. The bridge is still undergoing construction at this time.
Cathedral Park is one of the most, if not *THE* most iconic, impressive and remarkable parks in Oregon, and the entire PNW. While just about all parks of repute have sprawling, manicured green space, picturesque trees, water features and the like, none share Cathedral Park's unique aesthetic, stretched out in the shadow of the titanic, somewhat Gothic St. John's Bridge, itself an architectural and artistic wonder! Dwarfed by the cyclopean structure overhead, a visitor to Cathedral Park may not immediately realize how far the grounds of the park actually stretch out. Like a multi-tiered cake, there are several levels of grassy meadows, tree-lined trails and pathways, and multiple river access points. The park can effectively be divided into upper and lower levels, with the former offering picturesque views of the bridge's namesake architecture, its support structure resembling that of the nave of a Cathedral and running parallel to it underneath, while the latter sprawls out along the river's edge, with grassy knolls galore, as well as the park's "official" (and free!) parking lot on the north side. Cathedral Park is home to myriad events throughout the year, most notably its famous (and free!) annual Jazz Festival. It is also constantly utilized by a swarm of photographers engaged in wedding, engagement, graduation and/or baby photos. Buskers, acrobats and performers of all types are frequently found loitering and performing throughout its acreage, regardless of weather or the time of year. Despite its popularity, it never seems crowded, leaving plenty of room for picnickers, field sports, joggers, yoga practitioners and every other flavor of hippie to congregate without stepping on each other's toes. Adding extra value to an already unparalleled park is its proximity to several shops, pubs, breweries and restaurants within walking distance. Need picnic supplies? There's a Safeway less than half a mile away. Craving some beer and brats? Try Occidental Brewing's beer garden and attached German Wursthaus! Need a quick chocolate fix? The legendary Moonstruck Chocolate Company has a shop just off the green! Few places anywhere offer the same level of panoramic perfection, spacious surroundings, and unequaled utility of this multi-purpose municipal meadow. Cathedral Park manages to somehow live up to the divine nature of its name, and is equally as impressive, if not more so, than any church or temple in Portland, and possibly even more sacred. I'm not much of a church-goer, but I confess, this is one Cathedral I would attend on a regular basis.
Cool park with a gorgeous setting below St. John's Bridge. The most obvious thing during our visit...the park is a very popular place amongst photographers. We encountered a large wedding party during a session, as well as 3 other couples having countless pics taken today. The bridge does indeed make for a special and unique backdrop for some cool pics. There are a few paths to the top parking lot down to the river, as well as a few picnic tables. Today there were quite a few families and folks with their pups out for a sunny stroll. Unfortunately there was also a not-so-appealing "deal" going down right off a path in a small lot. We made our way down to the waters edge. There's a dock walkway you can venture onto, it's not in the best shape...and is unfortunately surrounded on one side by a lot of trash and other debris that's washed up to the edge and gotten stuck. If you can ignore the trash, and don't encounter any shady parking lot deals as we did, the park itself is beautiful. A lovely backdrop for a brief stroll and/or your next photo session.
Such a great park. If you have a dog they will love to put their paws in the water. My daughter loved it too
WOW. We did our family photos here after waiting nearly 4 years to see this gorgeous spot. For photos, there were LOADS of families out doing them that day! Everyone was super conscious of each other, polite, socially distanced AND made sure that they moved out of a particular space when they saw another group approaching to use that same space. For our first trip I could not have been happier. It was easy to park, and every single view was stunning. JUST stunning. The graffiti under the bridge is to be expected, but unfortunate as this has some of the prettiest views in the city in my opinion.
With the stunning Gothic arches of the St. John's Bridge as the magnificent backdrop, Cathedral Park is the prettiest park in Portland! Whether you are directly underneath the spectacular metalwork or anywhere in the park, the view is breathtaking from each and every angle. It's a photographers paradise! At one point, I had to put my camera away so I could stay in the moment and just soak all the images into my memory. The park itself isn't huge, but there is plenty of space to picnic in privacy. Lush green lawns with a paved walking path takes you from the boat launching area on the north, under the bridge, and to the shoreline of the river and the Water Pollution Control Laboratory to the south. Walk the entirety, including the paths by the Water Pollution Lab, to fully enjoy the views from multiple vantage points and vistas. On a sunny day, there are children and dogs playing in the river, people floating on whimsical rafts, and lots of people picnicking, playing frisbee or just sunbathing. So Americana! Along the path on the north end are a dozen or more picnic tables under the trees. After walking across the St John's Bridge, I enjoyed a handmade picnic lunch on one of the tables, the perfect resting spot. Make sure to walk under the bridge and up the stairs to Circle Point for amazing photos of the stacks of arches that support the bridge underneath, mirroring the same arches on the top of the bridge. To walk the actual bridge, I first parked my car on a side street on the St. John's side and walked West then back East, picked up my car then drove to the parking area under the bridge. There is also a parking lot on the north side by the boat launch and street parking on the south side. In the summers, when there isn't a global Pandemic, the city of Portland hosts movies and concerts in the park. The 3 day Jazz Festival is one of the City's best and should not be missed! Musicians play day and night, there are lots of food vendors, and the park is filled with families and friends of all ages and races enjoying the music in this magical space.
A lovely park in nice outdoor nature and close to hiking spots in hills , close to grocery store safe way, fast food, other restaurants. Definitely worth it solo and a group
You could spend hours here relaxing...just listening to the sounds of the water and enjoying the views. My dog loved the open grassy area to play in and it's a great place to walk around, toss a ball or let her enjoy new smells. The biggest draw here in my opinion are the the great views of St. John's Bridge. There are plenty of picnic tables where you can sit. The bathrooms aren't the cleanest but they are usable. There are always lots of people in the parking lot and using the boat launch. You do have to pay to park, but for a short time, it's definitely worth it. This is a lovely waterfront park that's great for dogs, picnics or just taking in the sights and sounds. read more
7 months ago
A beautiful park to visit on a clear winter day. The water view is always nice, with the iconic St John Bridge hovering over the top. I mention clear winter days because you actually do see more of the west side mountains and water and city view thru the bear branches in winter. It's a rare spot with such easy access to a great view. When it's in other seasons with foliage they block quite a bit of the view. But by then it's pretty in a different way of course. read more
After seeing the rose and Japanese tea garden, my family friend, Leo wanted to show me his favorite bridge in Portland, St. John Bridge. He explained that the bridge original color was cement white until recently they started to paint it green to match the lush greenery. Leo says, bridges are painted two colors: red or green. He added the Golden Gate bridge is red. My observation of Cathedral Park was beautiful park to take photo ops, relax on the lawn, eat a picnic lunch, or take rite of passage photos such as a wedding, graduation, and quinceañera. Leo and I walked down to the dock, were we watched locals fish and children play on the water. The afternoon air was crisp and chilly, but the landscape of elm and Douglas Fir were an abundance. Across the bridge is a mini rainforest off of Germantown Rd, you can hike and bike; find trails on the AllTrails app. I'd like to come back to relax with a good book and observe the bridge standing so tall! read more
I love visiting Cathedral Park anytime of the year. The views, especially of the St. Johns Bridge are incredible. Lots of places to go on a walk, picnic or simply enjoy the views. There is also plenty of parking and the park is spacious. read more
1 year ago
We really enjoyed this park. It was beautiful! Nice big trees and great pathways to walk. It was spacious too. The park is so clean. You can tell it is well taken care of. The views of St. John Bridge is wonderful too! Also, parking was so easy. They have a parking lot, but also lots of street parking on all parts of the park. We definitely enjoyed our little relaxation here. Great spot for a picnic or a walk. read more
1 year ago
I like visiting Cathedral Park when we're in Portland. It's usually quiet, not too crowded, and I love the views of the St. Johns Bridge, Willamette River, and surrounding landscape. The park has a small parking lot and bathrooms, and plenty of space for walking. The swim dock is great for getting even closer to the bridge. Overall, just a nice place to spend some time with beautiful views. read more
They host the annual jazz fest here which is free but they ask for donations to keep things going. Fabulous event around one of my most favorite Portland bridges. They also just put in a new million dollar dock that you can get out into the river and ever go swimming in an area protected from the motorized boats. They have picnic tables and even a small beach. Great place to just hang out! read more
2 years ago
This is a very pretty area, and there's even parts of it where you can go near the water. I remember parking being easy to find too, but the also partially being a bit confused finding the area itself while driving in because the surrounding area felt a bit industrial. It was a bit windy the day I went, so it would not have been nice to stay their too long. But if you're looking for scenic areas to view, especially in the Portland area, because of the well-kept park area and also the bridge, I would recommend this place ! read more
This is a great stop to check out the St. John's Bridge. It was early in the morning, so there was still parking available in the boat launch parking lot. It's a great place to take pictures. There were the occasionally dog walkers crossing our paths. The bridge is still undergoing construction at this time. read more
Cathedral Park is one of the most, if not *THE* most iconic, impressive and remarkable parks in Oregon, and the entire PNW. While just about all parks of repute have sprawling, manicured green space, picturesque trees, water features and the like, none share Cathedral Park's unique aesthetic, stretched out in the shadow of the titanic, somewhat Gothic St. John's Bridge, itself an architectural and artistic wonder! Dwarfed by the cyclopean structure overhead, a visitor to Cathedral Park may not immediately realize how far the grounds of the park actually stretch out. Like a multi-tiered cake, there are several levels of grassy meadows, tree-lined trails and pathways, and multiple river access points. The park can effectively be divided into upper and lower levels, with the former offering picturesque views of the bridge's namesake architecture, its support structure resembling that of the nave of a Cathedral and running parallel to it underneath, while the latter sprawls out along the river's edge, with grassy knolls galore, as well as the park's "official" (and free!) parking lot on the north side. Cathedral Park is home to myriad events throughout the year, most notably its famous (and free!) annual Jazz Festival. It is also constantly utilized by a swarm of photographers engaged in wedding, engagement, graduation and/or baby photos. Buskers, acrobats and performers of all types are frequently found loitering and performing throughout its acreage, regardless of weather or the time of year. Despite its popularity, it never seems crowded, leaving plenty of room for picnickers, field sports, joggers, yoga practitioners and every other flavor of hippie to congregate without stepping on each other's toes. Adding extra value to an already unparalleled park is its proximity to several shops, pubs, breweries and restaurants within walking distance. Need picnic supplies? There's a Safeway less than half a mile away. Craving some beer and brats? Try Occidental Brewing's beer garden and attached German Wursthaus! Need a quick chocolate fix? The legendary Moonstruck Chocolate Company has a shop just off the green! Few places anywhere offer the same level of panoramic perfection, spacious surroundings, and unequaled utility of this multi-purpose municipal meadow. Cathedral Park manages to somehow live up to the divine nature of its name, and is equally as impressive, if not more so, than any church or temple in Portland, and possibly even more sacred. I'm not much of a church-goer, but I confess, this is one Cathedral I would attend on a regular basis. read more
Cool park with a gorgeous setting below St. John's Bridge. The most obvious thing during our visit...the park is a very popular place amongst photographers. We encountered a large wedding party during a session, as well as 3 other couples having countless pics taken today. The bridge does indeed make for a special and unique backdrop for some cool pics. There are a few paths to the top parking lot down to the river, as well as a few picnic tables. Today there were quite a few families and folks with their pups out for a sunny stroll. Unfortunately there was also a not-so-appealing "deal" going down right off a path in a small lot. We made our way down to the waters edge. There's a dock walkway you can venture onto, it's not in the best shape...and is unfortunately surrounded on one side by a lot of trash and other debris that's washed up to the edge and gotten stuck. If you can ignore the trash, and don't encounter any shady parking lot deals as we did, the park itself is beautiful. A lovely backdrop for a brief stroll and/or your next photo session. read more
3 years ago
Such a great park. If you have a dog they will love to put their paws in the water. My daughter loved it too read more
6 years ago
WOW. We did our family photos here after waiting nearly 4 years to see this gorgeous spot. For photos, there were LOADS of families out doing them that day! Everyone was super conscious of each other, polite, socially distanced AND made sure that they moved out of a particular space when they saw another group approaching to use that same space. For our first trip I could not have been happier. It was easy to park, and every single view was stunning. JUST stunning. The graffiti under the bridge is to be expected, but unfortunate as this has some of the prettiest views in the city in my opinion. read more
With the stunning Gothic arches of the St. John's Bridge as the magnificent backdrop, Cathedral Park is the prettiest park in Portland! Whether you are directly underneath the spectacular metalwork or anywhere in the park, the view is breathtaking from each and every angle. It's a photographers paradise! At one point, I had to put my camera away so I could stay in the moment and just soak all the images into my memory. The park itself isn't huge, but there is plenty of space to picnic in privacy. Lush green lawns with a paved walking path takes you from the boat launching area on the north, under the bridge, and to the shoreline of the river and the Water Pollution Control Laboratory to the south. Walk the entirety, including the paths by the Water Pollution Lab, to fully enjoy the views from multiple vantage points and vistas. On a sunny day, there are children and dogs playing in the river, people floating on whimsical rafts, and lots of people picnicking, playing frisbee or just sunbathing. So Americana! Along the path on the north end are a dozen or more picnic tables under the trees. After walking across the St John's Bridge, I enjoyed a handmade picnic lunch on one of the tables, the perfect resting spot. Make sure to walk under the bridge and up the stairs to Circle Point for amazing photos of the stacks of arches that support the bridge underneath, mirroring the same arches on the top of the bridge. To walk the actual bridge, I first parked my car on a side street on the St. John's side and walked West then back East, picked up my car then drove to the parking area under the bridge. There is also a parking lot on the north side by the boat launch and street parking on the south side. In the summers, when there isn't a global Pandemic, the city of Portland hosts movies and concerts in the park. The 3 day Jazz Festival is one of the City's best and should not be missed! Musicians play day and night, there are lots of food vendors, and the park is filled with families and friends of all ages and races enjoying the music in this magical space. read more
2 years ago
A lovely park in nice outdoor nature and close to hiking spots in hills , close to grocery store safe way, fast food, other restaurants. Definitely worth it solo and a group read more
4 years ago
Street parking was fairly easy to find as the parking under the bridge was closed off due to construction. The noises of traffic going through was fascinating to hear and the weather was very cold. Despite that, the park was still enjoyable! We explored the graffiti art and walked on the fishing port that is floating on the water (kinda scary at first!). The park is litter free and clean! read more
Absolutely one of the most beautiful parks. There's currently a piano here from piano. Push. Play and you can either enjoy the sounds of another player or play yourself. This park boosts in beautiful scenery as well as beautiful spots for photos. read more
Peaceful and quiet park with great views of the st. John's bridge and the trees. You definitely get that nature and quiet feel. If you want a good exercise, you can walk up to the st. John's bridge. It was quite difficult for me when I walked to the bridge, because it was windy and cold. But once you get up there the views are amazing. I have posted some photos from the bridge on my ig account; photosmile_john if you want to see, the views from my point of view. read more
6 years ago
I was on the hunt for the perfect spot to take our family photos. I wanted it to have the traditional fall trees with colorful leaves all around, but I also wanted it to have that wow factor. I can find fall trees in every single park on sidewalk now days. I wanted something that was amazing! My friend suggested Cathedral Park because she came across a lot of people that did photo shoots here. I was sold once she showed me some photos! There was the bridge (the wow) and my fall trees! We came here on a Saturday at 10 am. There was ample parking right across the entrance from the park. It's basically under the bridge and it is free! There were a few photographers taking pictures of other families here during the same time, but we didn't have to fight for a shot. I feel like a lot of people stay right at the entrance to take their photos because it has a beautiful arch view of the under portion of the bridge. We ventured deeper into the park and found that there were also some train tracks and an area where you could see the water. The people that weren't taking photos were sitting on the benches with friends or walking their dogs. There was a lot of graffiti around on the concrete and surrounding buildings. I'm not sure how safe it is to visit during the evening hours, but I felt safe during the day. I'm certain that when it's not freezing cold the park is pretty busy! It's very clean with no trash around. There are a lot of trees and picnic benches/tables. I will be back in the spring/summer! It's so beautiful! Note that if you walk away from the park, past the parking area, you can find an entrance to the St. John's bridge. There is a sidewalk for you to walk on, but it is rather narrow. read more
2 years ago
I proposed here and she said yes!!!! We took some photos and it turned out great. Such a beautiful and special place for my fiancé and I. read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
5 years ago
Amazing. I do love the architecture, the feel of the area, the idea of a well built bridge that will not topple down crushing the people of the area that are out and about. No matter the weather, I do like walking around here. Perfect place for a picnic, a socially distanced hangout, a place to kick a ball around. I am envious of those who live nearby and take it for granted. I am unsure if there are any restrooms near, but there are plenty of trees. Great area for people watching. I honestly just love this park. read more
6 years ago
I don't normally park near the boat launch but on the side streets near the amphitheater. The boat launch parking lot normally gets pretty busy. This is a VERY popular place to get pictures done. From weddings, first looks, engagement, and portraits sessions. It also gets busy with just normal families and couples enjoying the park as well. It gets difficult to take special pictures without someone in the background but a great photographer has their tricks. =) Check out engagement photo sessions, wedding, first looks, and portrait sessions for inspiration! stunningportraitphotography.com read more
Situated on the North Portland peninsula on the east shore of the Willamette River, the park's namesake comes from the twin 400-foot-tall gothic cathedral-like towers of the St. Johns Bridge directly above it. The 23 acre green space has several walking trails, picnic benches, and a floating dock extending into the river. Set away from bustling downtown, the quiet area boasts a quiet community feel and natural respite from the city. Bring a camera for the sights and a picnic for the lawn. read more
9 years ago
I came here with some friends for the Second annual jazz festival. There were SO many people with their lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics. There was an enclave of food venders down below that had an array of food choices--anywhere from fruits dishes for plantbased people or meat options for the meat lovers. Everyone was super friendly and people from all walks of life--young and wise. We brought towels to sit on to enjoy the wonderful jazz music that was playing. We sat somewhat under the bridge where is provided of with shade and cool vibes from our neighbors. I'm glad I could be apart of this while on my trip to Portland. For next years event: 1) There is a Safeway in the area if you want to pickup some picnic supplies 2) come early for great seating read more
3 years ago
Nice park, not a great area of St. John's but the park itself is really great for eating lunch under a gorgeous iconic bridge! read more
Cathedral Park is a great place to remind yourself of what makes Portland special. Views of the river, multiple vantage points to take in the glory of the metalworker's art above, easy access to wander around the St Johns neighborhood, and (if you're braver than me) access to walk across the bridge). Wander the edges and find things like the rain garden at the Water Pollution Control Laboratory, and fragments of the foundation of the first ever softwood plywood factory. I've visited for events like the sorely missed Trek In The Park performances, but visiting when it isn't prime time are likely to be even more special. read more
12 years ago
This is one of my favorite parks in the city. The views of the St. John's bridge really cannot be beat. There is a ton of room in the grass for playing bocce ball or other park games. The bridge or nearby trees provide a shady place to sit and picnic. In July the Cathedral Park Jazz Festival happens and is a must see. Again with the beautiful bridge that serves as a backdrop to some amazing jazz music. My husband and I grab a blanket, bottle of wine and some tasty cheeses to enjoy the show. Downtown St. John's is a short walk away for any supplies you may have forgotten, or for an after park drink in a bar. read more
Whoa. What a cool park! Cathedral Park is located in the St. Johns neighborhood in North Portland. I had never been to this part of Portland until I sought to check this park out. It is a bit out of the way, but the park is unique in that it sits under the St. Johns Bridge and is located next to the Willamette River. The architecture of the bridge above makes for an amazing backdrop for the park. It totally makes sense why this is a popular outdoor wedding venue in Portland. Since it is away from the city core, the park does not draw much of a crowd. Mostly people getting an outdoor workout or soaking up some rays. Hence, it is a peaceful place to visit and contemplate things. If you are a fan of beautiful architecture or looking for a place to think, I would suggest checking out Cathedral Park. If neither of those things interest you, I would probably skip this attraction since it so far out. Though if you are checking out the St. Johns neighborhood anyway, the park would make for a nice side trip in the area. read more
I came to see the bridge and never have I imagined coming across such a beautiful waterfront park filled with luscious greens, paved paths and picnic tables. They even have an off-leash section for dogs! That's a total winner in my books! I now understand how this park bears its name because the bridge has cathedral-like arches. You'll also find a super cute unique painted piano art piece situated in the center that you can play with =D I'm not from the area but I can imagine engagement photo shoots taking place here because this park is pretty hidden making it less crowded and even more enjoyable. The setting here is seriously magical and a quick escape from all the city madness. If you have a little bit of time in your itinerary, make your way here. read more
5 years ago
Nice park with paved trails and cool bridge. The area surrounding the park is industrial and kinda dirty but again the paved trails are a plus and plenty of trash cans available for pets :). read more
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More info about Cathedral Park
N Edison St And Pittsburg Ave
Portland, OR 97203
Cathedral Park, North Portland
Directions
(503) 823-3647
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Visit Website
http://www.portlandonline.com
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Ask the Community - Cathedral Park
Can i have a barbecue in this park on saturday and bring a couple of grills to cook with.?
Yes, Welcome to another park that we can cook and easy at
