International Rose Test Garden

Originally built to make a good impression on the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1905, the International Rose Test Garden has since played an important role in rose conservation, botanical science, and Portland culture—it’s the reason Portland is nicknamed the City of Roses. Stroll through the impressive 4.5-acres to see beautiful blooms, plus special exhibits such as a miniature rose test garden and a Shakespeare Garden, where the rose varieties are named for characters from the Bard’s plays. Plus, the garden has great views of Downtown Portland, East Portland, and the Willamette River.

Master Gardeners offer a free guided tour of the rose garden daily at 1pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when roses are in bloom. You can also check out the gardens on your own or as part of a Portland sightseeing tour. Be sure to check out Washington Park’s other enclaves, too, like the Japanese Garden, Portland Children’s Museum, and Oregon Zoo.