Director Park

Many of Portland's parks follow in lock-step with the beautiful natural surroundings. Director Park takes a more modern approach with an urban design and feel. With a transparent rain shield, you can visit the park any time of year and still enjoy a respite from the busy shopping district nearby.

Director Park is named after Simon and Helen Director, who were European immigrants that helped to create the Portland of today when they first arrived in 1910. Their grandson, Jordan Director Schneitzer, describes the park as "a place that honors their memory and that of their generation in the hope that those who follow will continue their efforts to make Portland the wonderful city that we call home."

Unlike nearly every other city park, Director Park has a restaurant on its grounds. Violetta is a nice place for lunch and they have a patio which is great on sunny days. Director Park is also home to many special events. It recently hosted USA Soccer games during the World Cup as well as the World Cup Final. Its open space makes it a perfect location for large public gatherings. Check the park's website for upcoming events.

The park's central location means it should be a certain stop for visitors and locals. Even just stopping by, you will notice that care taken in its construction. Director Park has planted a variety of trees and like a true park it blends in with the surroundings. Softening the edge of the larger downtown buildings, Director Park offers visitors a fresh architectural perspective while walking downtown.

Director Park is made for the summer months. Its fountain and white bricks help to make the place a beacon for the sun. However, in the rainy months, the covered area can be a good place to have an outside coffee if it is not too cold.

With nearby movie theaters, arts, and shopping, Director Park can a great place to have lunch or just rest your feet. As Portland's newest park, it serves as reminder that Portland will continue to expand the idea of what a park can look like.

HelloPortland Tip: Make sure to pack a pair of sunglasses on sunny days as the white bricks in the park can reflect a good amount of sunlight.

- by William Crane, Portland Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

William Crane

William Crane is an accomplished print and online journalist (http://www.william-crane.com) His work covers a variety of topics including features, local community news, sports, music, and political/social issues. Graduating from Seattle University with a B.A. in Journalism, William's writing has appeared in a variety of different publications including the Stranger, Capitol Hill Times, the Skanner, Backfire Magazine, and the Internationalist.