There's more to Portland, Oregon, than doughnuts, hipsters and farmers markets. This Pacific Northwest city (nicknamed the City of Roses by visitors in the late nineteenth century) can be a stunning sight. With 200 parks and the nation’s largest urban forest—all within the city’s 145 square miles—travelers can explore seemingly endless green space without ever having to venture beyond the city limits. So get your bird-watching glasses and hiking shoes ready for these five natural encounters at Portland parks you won’t forget.
Enjoy a meditative moment at the Portland Japanese Garden
Right across the way from the Rose Test Garden, the Portland Japanese Garden occupies about 12 acres in Washington Park. This attraction has many gardens, koi ponds, a gift shop and the Umami Cafe, which was designed with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer diners an unmatched view. On clear days, look for Mount Hood in the distance. Hours vary by season, and admission costs range from $10 to $15 per person (children under age five can enter for free).
Climb an extinct urban volcano at Mount Tabor Park
In Southeast Portland, Mount Tabor sits atop a 630-foot extinct volcano. Challenge yourself with a climb to the top; you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Mount Hood and the Portland skyline. The 190-acre park also has hiking trails, an outdoor amphitheater, an off-leash dog area, a basketball court and three reservoirs. Note: the area is closed to motor vehicles on Wednesdays and every night from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Spot birds and mammals at Forest Park
You don’t need to leave the city limits for a true Northwest forest experience; simply head to Portland’s Forest Park.
The Tualatin Mountains’ seven-mile-long Forest Park is one of the largest wooded urban parks in the U.S. and just a few minutes away by car from Portland hotels, brunch spots, book stores, food carts and neighborhoods like downtown, Northwest District and the Pearl District.
Envelop yourself in the sights and smells of the International Rose Test Garden
Stop and smell the roses at the International Rose Test Garden.
Portland’s International Rose Test Garden began in 1917, further solidifying the city’s nickname, to preserve European rose species during World War I. The oldest of its kind in the U.S., and a standout of the Portland parks, the garden features over 7,000 rosebushes and more than 550 rose varieties. The best time to visit is between April (especially the entire month of June!) and October. Admission is free to the public, and the garden is open from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Discover thousands of plant families at Hoyt Arboretum
Also in Washington Park, Hoyt Arboretum is home to more than 2,300 species of plants and trees. Take the whole family for an outing; the 12-mile area has 21 trails, two miles of which are fitting for baby strollers and wheelchairs. Most Saturdays between April and October, you can join a 90-minute guided tour at noon ($3 suggested donation). Admission to the grounds is free to the public, and the park is open from 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily.