Let’s go fly a kite – in Portland! There isn’t anything that compares to the thrill of launching a kite on a windy, fall day and holding onto the string as tight as you can to keep it from flying away. An experience every parent wants to share with their kids. Portland has several spots perfect for letting your stringed craft soar—here are a few where you’re likely to find a good breeze.
photo credit: mustharshid via flickr
Council Crest Park (SW Council Crest Drive)
Thought to be the highest point in Portland (1,073 feet above sea level), Council Crest Park boasts beautiful views in all directions. There is an off-leash dog area, a plaza, and a tree-free hillside just begging for some kite-flying action. As a bonus, it is a perfect picnic spot! Bring lunch and a kite, and enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Rainier.
Delta Park (Corner of N Denver Ave & Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.)
At over 86 acres, Delta Park provides everything you could want on a clear day in Portland. There is a playground, an off-leash dog area, a football field, picnic areas, a soccer field, a softball field, a volley ball court, and more than enough room to run with a kite. The level ground and usual breeze make it an ideal spot for kids who are just learning to fly.
Orchard Park (NW Amberwood Drive, Hillsboro)
A bit smaller (and lesser known), this 21-acre park boasts a ½ mile paved path with bridges over Rock Creek, a playground and a disc golf course. Above all else, there is a great open area with grass that proves an ideal spot to put up a kite. Go early and you are likely to have the place to yourself.
Waterfront Park (Naito Pkwy between SW Harrison St & NW Glisan St)
Located in the heart of Portland, this park is best known for it’s fountain, riverfront views, and biking/running paths. Equally satisfying are the long grass-lined spaces which make for a perfect kite-launch spot. Most importantly, the riverfront is never without some amount of wind making flying a kite….a breeze.
Whether you consider yourself a novice flier or an expert, these parks are sure to please.
Don’t see your favorite spot listed here? Tell us about it in the comments below!
—Emily Hogan
