Learn more about the selection of the new name for the pool, Ida B. Wells-Barnett Outdoor Pool, here.
Thank you for a great summer 2022 season!
Swimming Pools and Lessons - this link will take you to our PP&R Swimming Pools page where you can find more information about fees, policies, swim lesson descriptions, and more.
With resources from the Parks Operating Levy (Parks Levy) approved in November 2020, Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) reopened all seven outdoor pools and four indoor pools on Tuesday, June 22, 2021.
The first Wilson Outdoor Pool was constructed in 1957 and opened in the summer of 1958, through an agreement with Portland Public Schools. In 2005, Wilson Pool received major renovations with funds from the 2002 Parks Levy.
In 2022, Wilson Outdoor Pool was renamed Ida B. Wells-Barnett Outdoor Pool through a community naming process. Former President Woodrow Wilson was known to have racist and segregationist views.
Ida B. Wells-Barnett (1862-1931) was honored for her significant legacy as a Black female journalist, civil rights advocate, educator, and researcher. She was known for her leadership speaking out against lynching and fighting for women’s suffrage. She spoke and wrote to President Wilson in protest of segregation and discriminatory hiring practices.
Accessibility Notes
All-User Changing Rooms
Ida B. Wells Outdoor Pool facilities feature one all-user changing room.
Zero Depth Entry
The leisure pool has a zero depth entry (sloped entrance from land to water). Pool-accessible wheelchair available for Leisure pool.
Lifts
Lifts with straps available for access to Lap pool.