Unthank Park — Attraction in Portland

DeNorval Unthank City Park, affectionately known simply as Unthank Park, in Portland's Boise neighborhood, is more than just 4.56 acres of green space; it's a profound historical landmark and an essential community anchor. Its very name carries significant weight, honoring Dr. DeNorval Unthank, a towering figure in Oregon's civil rights movement and one of the state's first Black doctors. Named in 1969, just a few years after its acquisition by the City of Portland in 1966, the park stands as a testament to his tireless work against racial discrimination and his dedication to public service.

Stepping into Unthank Park is to walk on ground steeped in the narratives of Portland's Black community. Unlike some parks that are simply recreational, Unthank feels like a living monument, especially given Dr. Unthank's pivotal role as the only Black physician in Portland during the 1930s, his co-founding of the Portland Urban League, and his presidency of the local NAACP chapter. The park's rededication in 2011 further solidified its place as a revered site of remembrance and ongoing community engagement.

Functionally, Unthank Park serves its community well. It offers a playground that bustles with the energy of children, a baseball field, and basketball courts that are frequently in use, creating a dynamic atmosphere. Picnic tables dot the landscape, inviting families and friends to gather and share meals. What truly stands out, however, is its reputation as a haven for dog owners. The ample space allows for long throws and happy frolicking, making it a popular morning destination for many and fostering a relaxed, uncrowded vibe even during peak times.

While the park isn't the "fanciest" or "biggest" in Portland, its strength lies in its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. It's known for being a low-key spot where people can relax and "be themselves," and notably, it often provides a space of accommodation for those experiencing homelessness, underscoring its role as a truly public and compassionate resource.

Unthank Park embodies the spirit of its namesake: resilient, community-focused, and quietly powerful. It reminds us that parks are not just about swings and slides, but can be vital spaces for honoring history, fostering community connections, and providing solace and recreation for all. Its continued vitality is a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. DeNorval Unthank and the vibrant...

A Beautiful Neighborhood Park – But Leash Rules Often Ignored

Unthank Park is just a few blocks from where I live, and it’s a favorite spot for my dog, Chase. There's plenty of open grass, lots of interesting smells, and a peaceful vibe most of the time. The park is well-maintained, with lush, vibrant green grass in the spring, a beautiful basketball court, bathrooms, and plenty of parking around the perimeter. It’s truly a gem for the neighborhood.

However, one ongoing issue affects our experience—many locals let their dogs off-leash, even though Unthank is not an off-leash park. Despite several posted signs reminding people about the leash ordinance, many ignore it. While their dogs might be friendly, not all dogs are, and not all dogs enjoy being approached. My dog Chase, for example, gets intimidated by large dogs and barks when they run up to him. On days when there are multiple off-leash dogs, we sometimes have to cut our visit short and head back home, which is disappointing.

Dogs, like people, have their own personalities, traumas, and instincts, and it's frustrating when we follow the rules but others do not.

That said, when the park isn’t overrun with off-leash dogs, it’s an absolutely lovely place to relax and enjoy some fresh air. I hope that moving forward, more people will respect the leash rules so that everyone can enjoy this beautiful park safely and...

I grew up in this playing in this Park. In 1953, I was born 1808 N Vancouver. When built the I-5 freeway, my parents bought a home where the Park is. When they decided to build a Park in honor if a local African American Doctor (Dr Denorval Unthank), my Parents bought a house right across the street. I grew up watching them build the Park and played in the park for many years with my friends. I have since enjoyed attending numerous events in the Park every summer. This park is right in the heart of what was known for 50 years as the...