Portland, Oregon is a dream come true for anyone who loves lush landscapes and peaceful green escapes.
The city is packed with gardens that feel like secret worlds—some bursting with blooms, others calm and Zen-like. I still remember being completely swept away by the colors, scents, and quiet magic of it all.
If you’re craving a bit of calm or just want to see nature put on a show, these gardens are calling your name.
1. Portland Japanese Garden
Nestled in Washington Park, this tranquil oasis transports visitors straight to Kyoto. The meticulously pruned trees and peaceful koi ponds create a meditative atmosphere that changes with each season in Oregon.
Fall brings fiery maple colors while spring showcases delicate cherry blossoms. Don’t miss the authentic tea house and the stunning views of Mount Hood on clear days!
2. International Rose Test Garden
With over 10,000 rose bushes and 650 varieties, this fragrant wonderland is what earned Portland its flowery nickname. Rows upon rows of colorful blooms create a spectacular display that peaks between May and September in Oregon’s mild climate.
Free to the public, this century-old garden serves as a testing ground for new rose varieties. The Shakespeare Garden section features plants mentioned in the Bard’s works!
3. Lan Su Chinese Garden
A walled sanctuary in downtown Portland, this authentic Ming Dynasty-style garden was built by artisans from Suzhou, China. Every element – from the weathered stones to the intricate woodwork – was carefully chosen to create harmony in this Oregon treasure.
The garden’s name means ‘Garden of Awakening Orchids.’ A visit to the traditional teahouse offers a chance to sample authentic Chinese teas while overlooking the central lake.
4. Hoyt Arboretum
Spanning 189 acres with 12 miles of hiking trails, this living museum houses trees from around the world. Some specimens in this Oregon collection are over a century old, creating a majestic canopy that changes dramatically with the seasons.
The Redwood Trail features towering giants while the Magnolia Collection explodes with color each spring. Grab a trail map at the visitor center to find the famous Dawn Redwood, once thought extinct!
5. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Tucked beside Reed College, this 9.5-acre garden showcases more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and companion plants. The spring explosion of color against Oregon’s greenery creates a painter’s palette that attracts photographers and artists alike.
Waterfowl glide across three connected lakes while footbridges and quiet benches invite contemplation. Early morning visits often reward with misty views and fewer crowds!
6. Leach Botanical Garden
Founded by pharmacist and plant collector John Leach, this hidden gem in East Portland combines woodland trails with cultivated gardens. The property straddles Johnson Creek, creating diverse growing conditions for Oregon’s native plants and exotic specimens alike.
The historic manor house tells the story of the Leach family’s passion for botany. Don’t overlook the impressive collection of alpine plants and the tranquil water features throughout the property.
7. The Grotto Gardens
More than just botanical displays, these 62-acre grounds combine spirituality with natural beauty. The lower level features a rock cave carved into the cliff, while the upper gardens offer panoramic views across the Columbia River Valley in Oregon.
Peaceful reflection pools and religious shrines dot the landscape. The Meditation Chapel, with its floor-to-ceiling glass walls, creates an unforgettable connection between indoor contemplation and outdoor splendor.
8. Peninsula Park Rose Garden
Portland’s first public rose garden offers a more intimate alternative to its famous counterpart. The formal French design features a central fountain surrounded by symmetrical beds filled with over 5,000 roses in Oregon’s fertile soil.
Historic brick walkways and a classic gazebo add vintage charm. This North Portland gem typically blooms a week earlier than the International Rose Test Garden, making it perfect for beating the crowds!
9. Bishop’s Close Garden
Also known as Elk Rock Garden, this historic estate perched above the Willamette River was designed by the Olmsted Brothers firm. The 13-acre property showcases century-old trees, rare shrubs, and seasonal blooms against Oregon’s dramatic river backdrop.
Now owned by the Episcopal Diocese, the gardens remain open to the public. Look for the magnificent magnolias and the alpine garden with its collection of miniature plants from mountainous regions worldwide.