Weddings & Picnic Sites
Hoyt Arboretum has four outdoor sites for weddings and small events, each for groups of up to 100: Stevens Pavilion, the Redwood Deck, the Wedding Meadow and the Stone Circle. Portland Parks & Recreation issues the permits, at 503-823-2525. The Stone Circle is unavailable through 2026 and into 2027 because of trail work nearby, and Stevens Pavilion has limited dates, so confirm your site before you book anything else.
Weddings at a Glance
The Four Sites
Stevens Pavilion
The A-frame picnic shelter with big open timbers across the street from the Visitor Center, probably the most recognizable structure in the arboretum. It has 10 picnic tables and suits picnics as well as weddings. Hoyt Arboretum Friends says it books early in high season.
Redwood Deck
An open wooden platform in the grove of redwoods and giant sequoias, popular for small ceremonies and wedding photos. See Redwood Trail and Deck.
Wedding Meadow
An open, rolling lawn among the trees, partly shaded by a huge Douglas-fir, that feels like a forest clearing. It is often booked together with the Redwood Deck.
Stone Circle
A quiet forest setting halfway along the paved Bristlecone Pine Trail. Not available for permits during 2026 and into 2027, while the trail is rebuilt. See Bristlecone Pine Trail.
2026 and 2027 Availability
Portland Parks & Recreation lists these changes because of the Bristlecone Pine Trail project:
- Stone Circle: unavailable during 2026 and into 2027.
- Stevens Pavilion: weekends only from May 1, 2027. Hoyt Arboretum Friends gives different dates for the pavilion, so confirm with the city.
- Redwood Deck and Wedding Meadow: still available. The city warns that heavy-equipment noise may be heard on some weekdays in late spring, summer and fall. The work site is about a third of a mile from the Redwood Deck; equipment and fencing may be visible from Stevens Pavilion.
How to Book
City code requires a permit for any wedding in a Portland park where guests are invited, meaning anything beyond the couple, the officiant and two witnesses. Permits come from Portland Parks & Recreation Reservations and Payments:
- Phone: 503-823-2525, option 1, Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- In person: 1120 SW 5th Avenue, Portland.
- Online: the city's reservation system.
Book at least 45 days ahead to avoid rush fees. Only ceremonies happen in the wedding sites; a reception needs a separate picnic permit.
Booking 2027 Dates
For events from April 1 to December 31, 2027, the city takes in-person reservations on Monday, January 4, 2027, then phone, online and mail requests from Tuesday, January 5. Dates from January 1 to March 31, 2027 can be booked now by phone.
What to Know
- Insurance may be required; the city offers event coverage through its TULIP program.
- Smoking is not allowed in Portland parks. Alcohol only at permitted events.
- Take all your garbage with you.
- Rental fees support Hoyt Arboretum's tree collection and programs, according to Hoyt Arboretum Friends.
- Parking is paid and limited for guests; see parking.
Nearby Venues Where Weddings Are Not Allowed
The city does not permit weddings at the Portland Japanese Garden or at Pittock Mansion and its grounds.
Weddings & Picnic Sites FAQ
Can you get married at Hoyt Arboretum?
Yes. Portland Parks & Recreation issues wedding permits for Stevens Pavilion, the Redwood Deck, the Wedding Meadow and the Stone Circle, for groups of up to 100. Call 503-823-2525.
How much does a Hoyt Arboretum wedding cost?
Fees are set in the city's wedding brochure for each year; call Portland Parks & Recreation Reservations and Payments at 503-823-2525. Parking for guests is extra.
Is the Stone Circle at Hoyt Arboretum available?
Not during 2026 and into 2027, because of the Bristlecone Pine Trail rebuild nearby.
Do you need a permit to get married at Hoyt Arboretum?
Yes, if guests attend beyond the couple, the officiant and two witnesses. Book at least 45 days ahead to avoid rush fees.