Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland

Pioneer Courthouse Square, affectionately known as Portland's "living room," is a bustling urban park situated in the heart of downtown Portland, United States. This public space plays host to over 300 events a year, ranging from cultural festivals to political rallies, making it one of the most active community gathering places in the city.

Covering an entire city block and attracting more than 9.5 million visitors annually, Pioneer Courthouse Square was opened in 1984 and is a testament to Portland's commitment to public spaces. It features a unique amphitheater design with stepped terraces that provide ample seating for spectators and participants alike. The square's distinctive brickwork, which includes over 70,000 personalized bricks purchased by community members to fund construction, adds to its charm and sense of local pride.

The Square is nestled adjacent to the historic Pioneer Courthouse, one of the oldest federal buildings in the Pacific Northwest, and is surrounded by a bustling shopping district. This central location makes it a natural hub for public transportation and a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike.

Visitors to Pioneer Courthouse Square can enjoy a variety of activities, including food festivals, farmers' markets, and outdoor concerts. The Square also features art installations, a cascading fountain, and the iconic Weather Machine, a sculpture that provides a noon-time weather prediction with a brief show.