A Local’s Guide to Portland’s Best Parks and Gardens
Oregon is a paradise for nature lovers with its diverse landscapes offering a seamless mix of wild rugged borders and refined, crafted green alleys right in the heart of our beloved Portland. As any Oregonian will tell you, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! So layer up, buckle your boots, and get ready to explore some of Portland’s best parks and gardens. From tranquil rose gardens to vibrant urban parks, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Washington Park
Nestled amongst the West Hills, Washington Park is home to numerous cultural attractions, including the Oregon Zoo and the Portland Japanese Garden. The park offers plenty of trails, such as the Wildwood Trail, for those who are up for a hike. Unwind at the Hoyt Arboretum, a haven boasting over 2,300 species of trees and plants.2. International Rose Test Garden
The City of Roses wouldn’t hold true to its name without the International Rose Test Garden. This fragrant gem showcases over 10,000 rose bushes of approximately 650 varieties. Drop by in June to experience ‘Portland’s Best Smelling Concert Series’, a local favorite combining live music and impeccable blooms.
3. Laurelhurst Park
Initially designed by the Olmsted Brothers, Laurelhurst Park is a beloved urban space that effortlessly blends natural beauty with recreational amenities. Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the pond or take the kids to the playground or off-leash dog area. Make sure to keep an eye out for the resident critters!4. Powell Butte Nature Park
Powell Butte, an extinct cinder cone volcano, offers trails leading to panoramic viewpoints of the Portland skyline. Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and many native bird species. Don’t forget to try the delicious pear cider at Bushwhacker Cider, located nearby, after your adventure.5. Mt. Tabor Park
Another volcanic site turned verdant park, Mt. Tabor offers beautiful vistas of downtown Portland and Mt. Hood. Enjoy a walk around the picturesque reservoirs or watch a sunset from the summit.6. Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
This urban wetland in the heart of Sellwood offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife, right from beavers to over 175 species of birds. The refuge is especially vibrant during fall when the migrating birds swoop in.7. Forest Park
As one of the country’s largest urban forest reserves, Forest Park houses thousands of acres of lush woods and over 70 miles of trails. The popular Lower Macleay Trail to Pittock Mansion provides stunning views of downtown and Mt. Hood.8. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Crystal Springs is a spectacle especially in spring, when the rhododendrons and azaleas burst into bloom. With tranquil water features and wandering waterfowl, it’s a remarkable place for relaxation or photography!9. Cathedral Park
Situated beneath the iconic St. John’s Bridge, Cathedral Park offers not just amazing views, but also ample space for picnics, and a boat ramp for river access. Don’t miss the annual Cathedral Park Jazz Festival, a Portland tradition since 1981.10. Leach Botanical Garden
Forgotten by some but cherished by locals, Leach Botanical Garden is a quieter alternative to Portland’s more bustling parks. This garden showcases thousands of unique plant species and an intriguing manor house museum.And so, our tour ends, but Portland’s parks and gardens continue to tell their stories each new day, with every sunset and bloom. Whether you’re in the mood for a stroll, a bike ride, or just some quiet time with a book, there’s a park or garden in Portland waiting to welcome you with open arms. There’s no better way to truly understand and appreciate Oregon than by immersing oneself in its natural beauty and community gatherings.