Top 7 Places to Visit in Portland

Perched high in Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden offers a breathtaking display of over 10,000 rose bushes featuring more than 650 varieties. Established in 1917, it’s the oldest continuously operating public rose test garden in the United States, designed to be a safe haven for hybrid roses during World War I. Stroll through vibrant terraces filled with fragrant blooms, enjoying panoramic views of downtown Portland, the Willamette River, and Mount Hood on clear days. This iconic Portland attraction is perfect for a leisurely afternoon, providing stunning photo opportunities and a serene escape into nature’s beauty. It’s a sensory delight that truly embodies Portland’s nickname, the ‘City of Roses’.

Good for Children

• ✔ Yes

Allows Dogs

• ✔ Yes

Parking options

• ✔ Paid parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payment options

• ✔ Credit Card
• ✔ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only

Regarded as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is a masterpiece of tranquility and artistic design. Spread across 12 acres within Washington Park, it features eight distinct garden styles, including a Strolling Pond Garden, Tea Garden, and Sand and Stone Garden. Each element, from the meticulously pruned trees to the calming water features and traditional architecture, contributes to a sense of peace and harmony. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese culture at the Umami Cafe or participate in seasonal events. It’s a profound cultural immersion and a perfect spot for contemplation and quiet beauty, offering a respite from the city’s hustle.

Good for Children

• ✔ Yes

Allows Dogs

• ✔ No

Parking options

• ✔ Paid parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payment options

• ✔ Credit Card
• ✔ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only
• ✔ NFC

Step back in time at Pittock Mansion, a stunning French Renaissance-style château built in 1914 for Portland pioneers Henry and Georgiana Pittock. Perched 1,000 feet above the city, the mansion offers not only a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of early 20th-century Portland but also boasts some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the city skyline, the Cascade Mountains, and five majestic peaks, including Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens. Explore the exquisitely preserved rooms filled with period furnishings, stroll through the picturesque grounds, and soak in the breathtaking vistas. It’s a perfect blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Type

• ✔ Museum

Good for Children

• ✔ Yes

Has Restroom

• ✔ Yes

Parking options

• ✔ Paid parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom

Payment options

• ✔ NFC

Home to over 2,000 animals representing 200 species, the Oregon Zoo is a vital center for wildlife conservation and a fantastic family-friendly attraction. Located within Washington Park, this 64-acre zoo offers immersive exhibits like the award-winning Elephant Lands, Great Northwest, and Primate Forest, where visitors can observe animals in naturalistic habitats. Beyond seeing magnificent creatures like elephants, polar bears, and chimpanzees, the zoo focuses on education and conservation efforts, making every visit impactful. With events, playgrounds, and a scenic railway, it provides a full day of discovery and entertainment for all ages, fostering a love and respect for the animal kingdom.

Type

• ✔ Zoo

Good for Children

• ✔ Yes

Parking options

• ✔ Paid parking lot
• ❌ Free parking lot
• ❌ Free street parking
• ❌ Paid street parking
• ❌ Free garage parking
• ❌ Paid garage parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom

Payment options

• ✔ Credit Card
• ✔ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only
• ✔ NFC

Ignite your curiosity at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), a dynamic and interactive science center located on the Willamette River. OMSI boasts five expansive halls filled with engaging exhibits covering everything from physics and chemistry to natural sciences and technology. Highlights include a genuine U.S. Navy submarine (USS Blueback) available for tours, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and an OMNIMAX theater. With hands-on activities, live demonstrations, and rotating exhibitions, OMSI provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages, making complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting. It’s a perfect destination for inquisitive minds.

Type

• ✔ Museum

Good for Children

• ✔ Yes

Has Restroom

• ✔ Yes

Has Wifi

• ✔ Yes

Parking options

• ✔ Paid parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom

Payment options

• ✔ NFC

Discover a tranquil urban oasis at the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a walled garden built in the traditional Ming Dynasty style. This authentic garden is a collaboration between Portland and its sister city, Suzhou, China, and features a captivating interplay of architecture, design, and nature. Wander through intricate pathways, admire rare Chinese plants, observe classical scholarly elements, and relax by the serene Lake Zither. The Teahouse at Tower of Cosmic Reflections offers a chance to experience traditional Chinese tea service amidst the garden’s beauty. Lan Su is more than just a garden; it’s a living work of art and a deeply immersive cultural experience that transports you to ancient China.

Type

• ✔ Cultural landmark

Price Level

• ✔ Moderate

Good for Children

• ✔ Yes

Has Restroom

• ✔ Yes

Parking options

• ✔ Free parking lot
• ✔ Paid street parking
• ❌ Free garage parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom

Payment options

• ✔ NFC

Escape into the wild heart of the city at Forest Park, one of the largest urban forest reserves in the United States, spanning over 5,000 acres along the Tualatin Mountains. This sprawling natural sanctuary offers more than 80 miles of scenic trails, perfect for hiking, trail running, and bird-watching. Lush with native trees and wildlife, it provides a refreshing contrast to Portland’s urban environment. Popular trails like the Wildwood Trail lead to hidden gems and offer stunning views. It’s a beloved spot for locals and visitors seeking an invigorating outdoor adventure, connecting with nature, and enjoying the Pacific Northwest’s renowned green spaces.

Type

• ✔ Park and Garden

Good for Children

• ✔ Yes

Allows Dogs

• ✔ Yes

Has Wifi

• ✔ No

Payment options

• ❌ Credit Card
• ❌ Cash Only