Construction on the Oaks Park Master Plan has begun, launching a transformation that will preserve what people love about the park while improving wayfinding, restoring historic treasures, and creating new ways for families and friends to gather, play, and celebrate. This long-term vision is designed to honor Oaks Park’s history while preparing it for generations to come, ensuring the park remains a vibrant and welcoming destination for the community.
Because annual operating resources cover only part of the work, philanthropy is essential to unlocking the full vision. Generous support helps strengthen Oaks Park for the future while preserving the character and experiences that have made it a beloved Portland institution for generations. Oaks Park is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit — every gift is tax-deductible and goes directly toward keeping the park open, affordable, and thriving for the next generation
Oaks Park’s Master Plan is a long-term investment in the future of Portland’s historic playground. It is designed to strengthen what people already love about the park while improving access, preserving historic places, and adding new experiences for future generations. Construction begins with Phase 1a in 2026, and the work will happen in stages so the park can continue welcoming guests during the process. That phased approach is meant to minimize disruption while steadily delivering visible improvements.
Entertainment zone looking northwest.
Oaks Park is committed to keeping the park open and welcoming to everyone, with no entry fee and continued support for free carousel and train rides. The plan also includes better wayfinding, improved circulation, and enhanced multi-modal access so more people can get here and enjoy the park comfortably.
Entertainment zone from the north.
A major part of the plan focuses on protecting the park’s history, including the carousel, the roller rink, historic buildings, and other beloved landmarks. This work helps preserve the character that makes Oaks Park unique while keeping the park useful and vibrant for the future.
Entertainment zone looking southwest.
The plan calls for new rides, better entertainment areas, improved stages and gathering spaces, and updated guest amenities. These additions are meant to keep Oaks Park fun for today’s visitors while creating room for larger community events, celebrations, and future growth.
Entertainment zone looking west.
Oaks Park also plans to enhance its natural setting through tree planting, landscaping, stormwater improvements, and better waterfront connections. These changes support the park’s identity as a green, riverfront destination and help protect the landscape for years to come.
Oaks Park’s Master Plan is a big vision, and there are several ways to be part of it. Whether you want to give, share feedback, or simply stay connected, your support helps preserve Portland’s playground for generations to come.
Philanthropic support helps move the Master Plan forward, starting with Phase 1a groundbreaking in 2026. With only $1M from annual operations available for these enhancements, gifts help unlock new rides, historic restoration, environmental improvements, and accessible guest experiences.
If you want your gift to go toward a particular priority, there are several meaningful options. These include the Fund for All initiative, the Roller Rink Endowment Fund, the Carousel Restoration Campaign, and Master Plan capital support.
We want this plan to reflect what the community values most. Share your Oaks Park story or share your feedback to help us understand which improvements matter most to guests, families, skaters, neighbors, and partners.
Stay close to the project as it happens. Sign up for updates on construction milestones, behind-the-scenes progress, and new ways to get involved as we build the next chapter of Oaks Park.” – and the link needs to be updated.
For major gifts, naming opportunities, or partnership ideas, reach out to our development team directly.