Color Splash Panel | Playing in Portland

Barsotti Park is my new favorite playground structure. In fact, it is so new that Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation’s website doesn’t list the new playground as a feature. I’ve tried to pin point why this structure is my favorite, but I think there are a wide variety of reasons. For instance, it is one of the few playgrounds that has 3 sections, one for ages 6-23 months or for all abilities, one for ages 2-5 and one last one for ages 5-12. The structure is also bright and lively with new climbers and spinners accommodated by a soft surface (turf) making it more accessible for all. Please keep in mind the soft surface does break as the walking path nicely goes between the older and younger play structures. The only concern I noticed about this park is there is a tree that kids like to climb, and below it seems to be an old post almost like a bird bath that could be dangerous if a child fell on it from climbing the tree. However, precautions should be taken anytime a kid climbs a tree! Overall, this is a well-rounded park and one I think you and your family will enjoy.

Click on maps for directions to Barsotti Park.

: A pole that could hurt if kids fell off the tree.

The sun is beginning to shine more and Terra Linda Park is an updated, low-key, bright and colorful park you may enjoy. This park incorporates two-playground manufactures one structure from GameTime, which is designed for 5-12 years old, and the other from Landscape Structures, which is designed for 2-5 years old. I recently found out there was a fire last year that destroyed part of the park, so the new addition by Landscape Structures is really new. Previously until my last visit, I wasn’t a fan of this park, but the new addition has won me over. Just the other day I really enjoyed playing at Terra Linda Park, and plan to go more this summer. One thing I don’t like about this park is the rail slide (which can be slid down or climbed up) on the 5-12 year old structure, and there is only a Porta Potty further down by the grassy field. Alternatively, the grassy field is definitely a good open space in which kids can run and play. Terra Linda Park also has some fun fast spinners, which kids love. I also really like the seesaw/teeter-totter, and the kaleidoscope panel spinner on the structure designed for 2-5 years old. If you find this park isn’t enough for your older children, the best thing is after your young ones play (or vice a versa) go across the street to the school playground. At Terra Linda Elementary there is a large play structure for older kids to climb on and get their energy out. We have played, and had fun at both places. Overall, this park is kind of tucked away. It feels like you are driving into an apartment complex from the long entrance to the park/school. So don’t think you are driving in the wrong direction when it seems that you are at an apartment complex, just follow the long road and at the end you will see the park. Have fun Playing in Portland!

Click on Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation (THPRD) to see their description of Terra Linda Park.