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EXPLORE PORTLAND | | | | | | | 239 NW Everett
Portland,
OR
97209
503-228-8131 | | | | | Description: Occupying an entire city block near Chinatown, this walled garden was designed by landscape architects from Suzhou, Portland's sister city. Conceived of as a microcosm of the natural world, the garden offers a series of composed vistas and symbolic positionings of rock, water and vegetation. Courtyards, pavilions, gateways, bridges and walkways add structure, while a two-story tea house contributes height and focus. Naturalistic plantings indicate how studied, yet beautiful the created environment can be. The garden's official name, Lan Su Yuan, means "Garden of Awakening Orchids."
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| Crystal Springs Rhododendron GardenSE 28th Ave and Woodstock St
Portland,
OR
97214
503-771-8386 | | | | | Description: Begun in 1950, this lovely garden is planted with hundreds of rhododendrons and azaleas. The seven-acre haven is a beautiful spot throughout the year but truly comes into its own in April and May, when shrubs begin to flower and fill the landscape with incredible color and delicate blooms. Crystal Springs Lake adds the sound of water to the already-relaxing environment, and visitors often come to walk, lounge or partake of the beauty.
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| NW Skyline to St. Helens Rd
Portland,
OR
97204
503-823-7529 | | | | | Description: WEST HILLS. Huge Forest Park, the country's largest urban forest located within a city, encompasses more than 5000 acres. It's filled with 40 miles of hiking and equestrian trails; runners have routes to follow as well. The park can be found on the eastern portion of the Northwest Hills and is only 10 minutes from downtown. The abundance of local flora and fauna allows you to truly appreciate the region's beauty. Very popular on weekends.
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| International Rose Test Gardens400 SW Kingston Ave
Portland,
OR
97205
503-823-3636 | | | | | Description: These terraced gardens rise above Portland, offering great views of the city that is, if you can keep from marveling at the gorgeous specimens all around. Instituted in 1917, the gardens give trial runs to various rose hybrids before they're introduced into the mass market. With over 8000 plants representing more than 400 different species, this garden is sure to have at least one rose type that captivates you. Should you find yourself tempted, however, know that it's illegal to pick any of the blooms. Summer is the best time to visit the displays and is also when you'll find a repertoire of seasonal concerts available in the gardens. The Washington Park Rose Garden Store offers unusual items for both the home and garden.
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| Japanese-American Historical PlazaNW Naito Pkwy & Davis
Portland,
OR
97204
503-823-7529 | | | | | Description: This site along the Willamette River commemorates Japanese-Americans restricted in internment camps during WWII. Several large boulders bear inscriptions reflecting the Japanese-American experience through word and symbol. Another sculpture stands at the Steel Bridge, and cherry trees distinguish the site. Nearby, the Friendship Circle acknowledges Portland's relationship with sister city Sapporo. The tall structure is said to "sing" as it mimics the sounds of the Japanese flute and drum.
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| 6704 SE 122nd Ave
Portland,
OR
97236-5037
503-823-9503 | | | | | Description: In a protected area near Johnson Creek, botanists Lilla and John Leach personally developed and planted this plot with some 1500 species of wildflowers, shrubs, ferns and irises. Native plants and specimens from their own collection combined to create a naturalized area that's been beautifully maintained for visitors. In the couple's 1930s-era manor house, children's nature study classes are held and their legacy and love of botany and landscape design live on.
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| 4001 SW Canyon Rd
Portland,
OR
97205
503-823-7529 | | | | | Description: Just minutes from downtown, this park offers residents and visitors 130 acres of lawns and gardens, with trails that connect to Forest Park and the Pittock Mansion. The park is also home to the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, Vietnam Veteran's Memorial, International Rose Test Gardens, Japanese Garden, World Forestry Center and the Children's Museum. Additional park amenities include ball fields, lighted tennis courts, picnic areas, historical public statuary and fountains, a fully accessible children's playground, the Rose Garden Store and public restrooms.
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| Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area855 Highway 101 S
Reedsport,
OR
97467
541-750-7000 | | | | | Description: [Approximately 200 miles from Portland.] The Oregon Dunes reach 500 feet above sea level and make for a fun hike or all terrain vehicle ride.
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