Essex Park

Park
Essex Park Playground
This page contains information about Essex Park in Portland, Oregon.

Welcome to Essex Park!

Located in Southeast Portland's Foster-Powell neighborhood, the 4.5 acre Essex Park has amenities and activities for visitors of all ages.

Families will find a lot to love here. The accessible playground features shaded and sunny areas with play structures suitable for all ages. During the summer months, the splash pad offers a refreshing way to cool down and have some fun. Picnic tables and a large open field provide space to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors.

Accessibility is a priority at Essex Park. The recently regraded pathway ensures easy access to the restrooms for all visitors. And the playground is a highlight of the park, featuring engineered mulch surfaces, a ramp for easy ingress, and play equipment designed to be inclusive for children of all abilities, including sensory play elements and a transfer station.

For sports enthusiasts, Essex Park has a variety of options. The park features two lighted tennis courts with a tennis backboard for practice, a basketball court, and a sports field. Whether you're looking to hone your tennis skills, shoot some hoops, or enjoy a casual game of catch, there's something for everyone.

Adding to its appeal, Essex Park participates in the PP&R's Summer Free For All program. This program offers free movies, events, and concerts for the community, along with free meals and activities specifically geared towards children during the summer months. For more information, visit the Summer Free For All program page.

If you're looking for a park that offers something for everyone, be sure to check out Essex Park. It's a great place to relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors!

Year acquired
1940
Size in acres
4.43

Accessibility Notes

Public Transit

There are several bus lines that run near Essex Park. Since Essex Park is large, the closest bus stop will vary depending on which entrance you are headed to. Here are a few options:

  • The 19 bus line stops on SE 82nd Ave near SE Center St, which is a short walk to the northern entrance of the park.
  • The 72 bus line stops on SE Foster Rd near SE 79th Ave, which is a short walk to the eastern entrance of the park.
  • The 12 bus line stops on SE Stark St near SE 79th Ave, which is a short walk to the southern entrance of the park.

You can find more information on bus routes and schedules on the TriMet website.

Parking

  • Street parking
  • Paved pathway to play area
  • 100 feet to play area

Play Area

  • Engineered mulch surface
  • Ramp into play area

Play Equipment

  • Transfer station
  • Sensory play elements

Other Amenities

  • Accessible restroom
  • Accessible picnic table
  • Accessible spray feature

Park Location or Entrance

SE 79th Avenue and Center Street
Portland, OR 97206

Open hours

Park hours: 5am to midnight

To reserve a sports field, call 503-823-2525.

Park amenities/activities

Accessible Play Area
Accessible Restroom
Picnic Table
Playground
Paths (Paved)
Baseball Field
Splash Pad
Basketball Court
Tennis Backboard
Tennis Court (Lighted)

Park policy

  • All dogs must be leashed in this park.

City section

SE