When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Duniway Track
Why Duniway Track is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Duniway Track, located within Duniway Park in Portland, Oregon, is a renowned athletic facility that offers extensive track and field amenities suitable for athletes of all levels. Known for its rich history dating back to the 1970s, the track underwent a major upgrade and reopened in 2017, featuring a new turf field available for year-round use and modern, runner-level lighting to facilitate evening workouts. This upgrade reflects the city's commitment to providing high-quality recreational opportunities for the community. The track is open for public use and is frequently utilized by local track teams, running clubs, and casual runners alike. Its prime location in a scenic park setting combined with the new facilities makes it an ideal meetup spot for fitness enthusiasts and friends looking to stay active together. The park also features other natural attractions, including the famous Lilac Garden, offering a refreshing backdrop that enhances the overall experience of visiting the track. As part of Portland Parks & Recreation's initiatives and a notable partnership with Under Armour, Duniway Track continues to be a celebrated hub for athletic training and community events.
Here's what people think of Duniway Track
As of recent, Duniway Track holds a 4.8-star rating based on 64 reviews.
Reviews of Duniway Track overwhelmingly highlight its excellent facilities and welcoming environment, reflected in its 4.8-star rating from 64 reviews. Many users praise the new turf athletic field and the improved lighting, which allows for safe and enjoyable use during darker hours. The track's upkeep and accessibility are frequently commended, with visitors noting it as a clean, well-maintained venue perfect for running, training, and community gatherings. Positive feedback often mentions the friendly atmosphere and the availability of the track for public use and organized group activities. However, some negative reviews occasionally mention limited parking and occasional crowding during peak hours, which can affect accessibility. A few users have expressed a desire for additional amenities such as more seating or restroom facilities nearby. Despite these minor criticisms, the general consensus remains highly positive, emphasizing Duniway Track as an excellent location for both serious athletes and casual visitors to meet, train, and enjoy outdoor recreation. Overall, the positive reviews dominate, showing that the upgrades and management have successfully met community needs and expectations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
KRISTEN L
Track is well maintained. 2 single use bathrooms and a porta john. Really small parking area, but people seemed to move through. Pretty steady use of the track by walkers and runners. Everyone had good track etiquette though. Few benches around the track, and none with any shade.
Theo W. Hayden
Nice public track but I wish it had a football field in the middle.
Jake Prososki
Duniway track is well maintained and a great place to run! Parking is very limited so you may have to find street parking nearby.
Eats !
Pretty track with a soccer field, which was being used, in the middle of it.
Good Star
I absolutely love this track. Daytime it’s really never seemed too busy even while a soccer game is going on. Best part is the track is open late and well lit for a night time run.
How to reach Duniway Track
None
Website: None
Why Duniway Track may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Duniway Track with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Duniway Track offers a unique blend of community, activity, and environment that makes it an exceptional place for social meetups. This venue, located just south of downtown Portland, is much more than a typical athletic track; it has a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages connection through movement and shared experience. The track's surface is made from 200,000 recycled running shoes, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and innovation that resonates with environmentally conscious groups. Whether your friends are casual joggers, dedicated runners, or simply looking to enjoy a beautiful outdoor setting while staying active, Duniway Track caters to all fitness levels and interests. The presence of evening lighting makes it accessible after work hours, facilitating convenient meetups even as the sun sets. Additionally, the surrounding Duniway Park offers scenic views and a peaceful setting that complements the energetic vibe of the track. This combination of sustainability, accessibility, history, and natural beauty makes Duniway Track a perfect rallying point to motivate each other, celebrate fitness milestones, or just enjoy quality time outdoors with friends.
What activities can you do at Duniway Track?
Duniway Track is primarily known as a premier running and training facility but offers more diverse activities for groups looking to engage in physical exercise or casual outdoor fun. The track itself is excellent for jogging, sprinting, interval training, and running drills that suit both beginners and experienced athletes. Its synthetic surface, crafted from recycled running shoes, provides a comfortable and eco-friendly running experience with reduced impact on joints. Beyond solo or partner workouts, the venue regularly hosts track meets and group training sessions, making it ideal for those who enjoy competitive sports or want to motivate each other through organized challenges. Duniway Park, where the track is situated, features walking paths that lead up to nearby Terwilliger Boulevard, offering longer routes for hikers or runners who want to extend their exercise beyond the track. This mix of track and trail options accommodates varying endurance levels and preferences, promoting fitness diversity within any group. Furthermore, the park’s open spaces are perfect for stretching, yoga, picnicking, or casual socializing before or after workouts, making it a versatile venue for group activities.
Why is Duniway Track perfect for group meetups?
Duniway Track’s layout and amenities have been thoughtfully designed with groups and community gatherings in mind, making it an outstanding choice for hosting meetups of friends or family. The track has a small parking lot and restroom facilities, which add convenience and support longer visits without the stress of finding nearby amenities. Its location near downtown Portland ensures easy access via multiple transportation options, reducing logistical challenges for group organizers. The track is surrounded by Duniway Park, which features serene green spaces including the historic Lilac Garden, ideal for relaxing or picnicking post-activity. Because the track is well-lit at night, groups can schedule meetups during the cooler evening hours, a great advantage in Portland’s warmer months. The area’s reputation for friendliness and safety enhances the comfort level for groups, including those with mixed ages or fitness abilities. Finally, the site’s historical and environmental significance—as it’s named after women's rights advocate Abigail Scott Duniway and features a sustainable track surface from recycled shoes—adds an enriching dimension to any meetup, sparking conversation and shared appreciation beyond physical activity.
How accessible is Duniway Track for different group sizes and fitness levels?
Duniway Track stands out for its accessibility to a wide range of users, accommodating large groups or smaller circles with ease. The track’s standard 400-meter oval design provides ample space for simultaneous activities—multiple friends can run, walk, or sprint without feeling crowded. This spacious setup allows groups to split into smaller sub-teams or conduct various drills and games concurrently. The surface’s shock absorption is beneficial for older adults or those recovering from injuries, ensuring a comfortable experience that encourages inclusivity. Because it has lighting for nighttime use, groups are not restricted to daylight hours, which increases scheduling flexibility. The surrounding park’s interconnected trails and open areas enable attendees with different fitness preferences to participate in diverse activities—from high-intensity running to gentle strolling or yoga, making it a versatile hub suited for everybody. Families with kids also find Duniway Park accommodating, as the calm green spaces allow for safe play and nature exploration. Overall, whether your group consists of competitive runners, casual walkers, or relatives of mixed ages, Duniway Track provides an inviting and adaptable environment.
What makes the history and sustainability of Duniway Track special?
Duniway Track is distinctive not only for its functionality but also because of its rich historical background and pioneering eco-conscious design. Named in honor of Abigail Scott Duniway, a writer, newspaper publisher, and women’s suffrage advocate who was the first legal female voter in Multnomah County, the track carries a legacy of empowerment that resonates in community gatherings. The track holds a remarkable environmental distinction: it was constructed in 1995 using over 20,000 pounds of recycled athletic shoe soles donated by Nike, making it among the first of its kind. This innovative approach to materials reflects a commitment to sustainability, creative reuse, and protection of natural resources, which appeals strongly to environmentally minded groups. The dedication ceremony included notable figures like Alberto Salazar, a three-time New York Marathon winner, which underscores the track’s importance in the athletic community of Portland. Furthermore, the surrounding Duniway Park features the historic Lilac Garden, connecting visitors with horticultural heritage and local conservation efforts. This juxtaposition of history, environmental stewardship, and community spirit enriches any meet-up, giving participants a meaningful context alongside their physical activities.
How can groups make the most out of a visit to Duniway Track?
Groups visiting Duniway Track can maximize their experience by blending fitness, socializing, and appreciation for the site’s unique offerings. Begin with a warm-up lap on the track to energize the body and create a sense of group rhythm. Following this, groups might split to enjoy synchronized workouts or fun competitive races, which promote camaraderie and team spirit. Taking advantage of the nearby trails, participants can embark on longer runs or hikes together, gradually building endurance while enjoying the fresh air and natural scenery. After the physical activities, utilizing the park’s picnic areas and the Lilac Garden encourages relaxation and shared meals, transforming the visit into a full-day social event. Planning meetups in the evening means benefiting from the well-lit track for nighttime runs and cooler temperatures, adding comfort especially in summer. Bringing lightweight games, reusable water bottles, or fitness challenges can also enhance group engagement. Finally, incorporating a brief discussion about Abigail Scott Duniway and the track’s sustainable origins can inspire and educate, fostering stronger community and environmental consciousness within your circle of friends or family.
What should visitors know about amenities and logistics at Duniway Track?
Visitors organizing a meetup at Duniway Track will find the amenities supportive of a comfortable, hassle-free outing. There is a small parking lot on-site, which handles moderate vehicle flow and helps ease arrival and departure. Restrooms are available within the park area, contributing to group convenience especially for longer stays. The track’s surface is designed to endure varying weather conditions, offering consistent use year-round. Lighting at night ensures safety and visibility, extending operating hours well into the evening. Accessibility to public transportation and bike lanes around the park makes it an easy destination for eco-conscious or non-driving attendees. Because the park hours run from early morning until midnight, groups have flexibility to choose their preferred meetup times. It is recommended to check in advance for any scheduled track events or park maintenance that might affect usage. For large or special occasions, contacting Portland Parks & Recreation for reservation details can ensure availability of facilities and smooth hosting experience.
Why is Duniway Track a better choice than other meetup locations in Portland?
Duniway Track distinguishes itself from other meetup spots by blending athletic facilities, community spirit, environmental innovation, and historical depth into a well-rounded experience. Many parks offer green spaces but few feature a high-quality synthetic track made from recycled materials, providing both an inspirational and functional setting. Its proximity to downtown Portland offers convenience without sacrificing tranquility, striking an ideal balance between urban accessibility and peaceful natural surroundings. The track’s lighting and modern amenities enable flexible scheduling not always possible in other outdoor locations. Duniway Track’s connection to Abigail Scott Duniway’s legacy adds a layer of cultural significance, which other venues may lack. For groups keen on fitness-oriented socializing, the combination of track and adjacent trail routes presents diverse exercise options in a safe, welcoming environment. Moreover, Duniway Track has earned a strong reputation for quality and community support, reflected in its high rating and frequent use by local schools and running clubs. Altogether, these elements make Duniway Track a top choice for memorable and meaningful friend or family meetups in Portland.