A Local’s Guide to Portland’s Best Parks and Gardens
In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Oregon is all about the outdoors, with Portland as its green, blooming showcase. Blessed with countless parks and gardens, Portland gives locals and visitors a chance to relish in the state’s natural beauty without having to travel far. As an authentic Oregonian excited to share personal favorites, here is a rundown of the top 10 parks and gardens to explore in this beautiful city.
1. Forest Park
No visit to Portland is complete without setting foot in Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the US. Covering over 5,000 acres, it offers more than 70 miles of trails, including the historic Wildwood Trail. Beautiful year-round, it becomes an enchanting world covered in moss during the cold season. Do not forget to visit the Stone House, an ideal spot for a unique selfie.2. Washington Park
Washington Park is a local gem, hosting some of the city’s top attractions. Nestled within are the world-renowned Portland Japanese Garden and the vibrant International Rose Test Garden, as well as the Oregon Zoo. Head to the Holocaust Memorial for some quiet reflection, or explore the captivating world of trees at Hoyt Arboretum.
3. Laurelhurst Park
For a classic neighborhood park experience, visit Laurelhurst Park. Designed by the renowned Olmsted Brothers, it’s a fantastic spot for picnicking, strolling around the pond, or maybe even playing a friendly game of horseshoe at the dedicated pits.4. Portland Japanese Garden
Regarded as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, this picturesque spot features stunning landscapes, tranquil water features, and numerous bridges. Visit in the spring to enjoy the cherry blossoms or the fall for vibrant autumn leaves. Top the visit with a cup of tea at the Umami Cafe.5. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Located in Eastmoreland, the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is a paradise for plant lovers. The garden boasts thousands of rhododendrons, azaleas, and other exotic plants. Enjoy the spring bloom, and watch out for the migrating waterfowl.6. Powell Butte
Providing a perfect blend of forest settings and open meadows, Powell Butte is a local’s beloved spot. Hike to the top for an unobstructed view of Mount Hood. Hidden within the butte are also several underground water reservoirs that supply the city.7. Tom McCall Waterfront Park
This riverfront park in downtown Portland serves as the city’s visual heart. Here is where the annual Rose Festival takes place, and it’s also a great spot to enjoy the Burnside Skatepark or the iconic Portland Saturday Market.8. Cathedral Park
Under the St. John’s Bridge, you’ll find Cathedral Park offering captivating views of the bridge’s gothic towers. Set alongside the Willamette River, it’s perfect for picnics, dog-walking, or just hanging out on a sunny day.9. Peninsula Park Rose Garden
This lesser-known cousin of the International Rose Test Garden may lack its relative’s fame but compensates with its own unique charm. Peninsula Park Rose Garden is a historic, formal-style garden situated in North Portland, and it’s blissfully uncrowded.10. Pittock Mansion Grounds
While the Pittock Mansion itself is worth a visit, the grounds around it abound with unspoiled nature and panoramic views of Portland and Mt. Hood. It’s also a terminus for the extensive Wildwood Trail.It’s no accident that Portland, the “City of Roses,” is rich in verdant parks and manicured gardens. Whether it’s the immersive Forest Park or the culturally rich Portland Japanese Garden, these places provide an escape to nature within the city limits, each reflecting a piece of Portland’s diverse and lush character. It’s this green benevolence that adds that special charm to living in, or visiting, this Pacific Northwest paradise.