Portland’s International Rose Garden

Portland may be criticized for its often-wet weather, but rainy days in Portland result in one stunningly beautiful thing – roses! The Portland Rose Garden is home to more than 500 varieties, in bloom from spring to fall. Nestled inside the expansive Washington Park, located uphill from the trendy North West district, the Rose Garden is best accessed by car or bus. In the open-air, verdant and free to the public, it is the place you’ll want to be on a sunny day in Portland. Get ready to spend a few hours strolling between immaculately tended rose beds and scattered gazebos on a mixture of easily accessible paved and grassy pathways. The Rose Garden has a small gift shop for those who’d like to bring home some rose-themed souvenirs and public restrooms for your convenience.

Walking along, you are likely to encounter classical musicians and wedding photo-shoots, as the Portland Rose Garden is the perfect setting for romance and rococo. Frequented by gardening experts and curious tourists alike, the Rose Garden is an excellent destination for people who want a mellow escape from what can be a very hip city.

In addition to roses of every color imaginable, the garden also has a walk-through fountain and an array of notable art sculptures. On the limit of the garden, you will find Washington Park Amphitheater; enclosed by lawn-covered steps where visitors enjoy professional music performances scheduled by the city in the month of August. A visit to the Portland Rose Garden isn’t complete without taking in the view of Mt. Hood, Oregon’s towering Cascade volcano, it is truly breathtaking. The Rose Garden, like most things in the City of Roses, invites you to relax and let your senses take over, so, make sure you do just that!

Restaurants Near Portland’s International Rose Garden

Ken’s Bakery: The sandwiches from Ken’s are a Portland favorite and their macaroons are legendary. If you are looking for something a bit lighter, grab a loaf of the oversized Country Brown, it lives up to all of the hype!

Higgins: A restaurant that uses local suppliers and serves a fresh take on traditional Northwest cuisine, it’s impossible to go wrong with Higgins. The menu changes with availability of ingredients through the seasons, but when available, we recommend the delicate Little Gem romaine salad with squash or the decadent Hama Hama clams to start off your meal.

Hotels Near Portland’s International Rose Garden

Budget: Portland Northwest Hostel, in the picturesque Nob Hill Neighborhood, welcomes you into a historic old home offering a friendly atmosphere and both private and shared room options. (25 minutes walking) » book a room

Comfort: Close to many tourist attractions in downtown Portland, the Ace Hotel boasts modern decor, a young, vibrant staff and is attached to one of Portland’s famous Sumptown coffee shops. (30 minutes walking) » book a room

Luxury: Hotel Deluxe is home to one of the best cocktail lounges in Portland, The Driftwood Room, and features decadent architecture and luxurious finishes that will transport you to an Art Deco era-gone-by! (25 minutes walking) » book a room

Author: Elizabeth Schaller