Seeing as it’s kid-friendly, date-friendly, and nature fanatic-friendly, Washington Park truly appeals to the masses. Originating in 1909, Washington Park started off as just a city park in upper SW Portland, with plenty of roads to walk on. As the century went on, the city added the Oregon Zoo, The International Rose Test Garden, and so much more. If you live in Portland and just want to spend a day with nature, go to Washington Park, because it is the closest and most dynamic outdoor attraction around!
Yelp/Chris L.
Start off by taking the Trimet to the Oregon Zoo, where you can see some of the most unbelievably amazing animals and to eat the delicious elephant ears (not real ones).
Yelp/Kati H.
Facebook/Oregon Zoo
If you make it to the Zoo in the summer, make sure you go to one of their shows which is located in the ampthitheater in the middle of the Zoo!
Yelp/Claire G.
It’s only right to go see the International Rose Test Garden while you’re in the City of Roses.
Yelp/Darcy W.
With its peak in June, the Rose Test Garden has over 550 different varieties of flowers and over 7,000 plants. You’ll be wandering here for hours, just dumbfounded by its beauty.
Yelp/Karlo G.
For something truly remarkable, visit the Portland Japanese Garden to transform yourself to another world.
Yelp/Roy B.
Within its serene and cultural atmosphere are some of the most incredible attractions and mind-blowing architectural masterpieces.
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Yelp/Portland Japanese Garden
You should even make a stop at the Zen Garden, for a moment of calmness in the nature surrounding you.
Yelp/Michael C.
With twelve miles of trails and approximately 10,000 trees, it’s easy to get pleasantly lost in the Hoyt Arboretum.
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Yelp/Nina M.
Possibly the best part of going to Washington Park is being able to catch glimpses of the beautiful skyline of Portland or the wonderful Mt. Hood peak.
Yelp/Matt S.
What’s your favorite memory at Portland’s top outdoor attraction?
Yelp/Chris L.
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Facebook/Oregon Zoo
Yelp/Claire G.
Yelp/Darcy W.
Yelp/Karlo G.
Yelp/Roy B.
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Yelp/Portland Japanese Garden
Yelp/Michael C.
Flickr/jih_lunasea
Yelp/Nina M.
Yelp/Matt S.
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