A Local’s Guide to Portland’s Best Parks and Gardens
There’s an invigorating green heartbeat pulsing throughout the urban soul of Portland, Oregon. Today, let’s take a jaunt through leaf-carpeted trails, scented rose gardens, and peaceful riverfronts that make up Portland’s ever-chirping, ever-growing landscape.
1. Forest Park
Stretching along the hills of the west side, Forest Park is one of the country’s largest urban forests. Over 80 miles of trails, including the popular Wildwood and Leif Erikson, offer escape and adventure. Practical advice? Branch out on a weekday morning, when the trails are less crowded.2. Laurelhurst Park
Laurelhurst Park, a classic city park nestled in Southeast Portland’s Laurelhurst neighborhood, offers a serene duck pond and groves of mature trees. For a true local experience, grab a loaf from nearby Ken’s Artisan Bakery to feed the ducks.
3. Powell Butte Nature Park
East of downtown, the Powell Butte Nature Park’s trails provide panoramic views of the Cascade Range. On a clear day, typically brisk Oregon autumn, one can spot five nearby mountain peaks – from Mount Hood to Mount Jefferson.4. Peninsula Park Rose Garden
Who said roses weren’t wild? The storied Peninsula Park Rose Garden, in North Portland, sings with over 6000 roses of more than 75 varieties. And don’t miss the ornate, hand-crafted fountain, a local hidden jewel.5. Pittock Mansion Gardens
The verdant gardens of the Pittock Mansion provide an enthralling backdrop to this historic Portland landmark. Delight in the Mansion’s bounty of rhododendrons and hydrangeas, then take a leisurely stroll to the mansion’s viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama of downtown.6. Mt. Tabor Park
Perched on a dormant volcanic cinder cone, Mt. Tabor Park has it all – whimsical forests, open meadows, and a sunset view that rivals a watercolor masterpiece. Look out for Summer Free Concerts series, when the park’s amphitheater is alive with music and joyous locals.7. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
This Southeast Portland park brims with over 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and other vibrant plants. The blooming season, from February to June, is a photographer’s paradise. For a cozy lunch, pick up a to-go order from the revered Otto’s Sausage Kitchen nearby.8. The Grotto
This serene, 62-acre Catholic shrine and botanical garden in Northeast Portland is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, meditative space. Here, amidst stirring statues and chapels, one can find solitude among verdant ferns, towering firs, and gently cascading waterfalls.9. Eastbank Esplanade
Trailside attractions abound on this 1.5-mile stretch following the Willamette River’s east bank. Run, bike or walk through this lively waterfront that’s home to floating homes, art installations, and the famed Vera Katz statue.10. Washington Park
Last, but certainly not least, is Washington Park, home to countless attractions like the International Rose Test Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Oregon Zoo. Sample authentic Egyptian cuisine at the nearby Queen of Sheba, a favorite among locals.Ah, the exploration never ends in the City of Roses. Every park and every garden whispers a different story, and this guide is just the start. So lace up your sneakers, fill the thermos with hot tea from the tea house on Division Street, and lose yourself to find yourself in Portland’s greenery.