Portland is called the "Rose City" for a reason. These public gardens were established in 1917 and set above the cityscape of Downtown Portland. They are the oldest official public rose gardens in the United States and the only place in North America that can officially issue recognized awards for hybrid roses grown around the world. The best time of the year for viewing is during the summer, when the fragrant blooms begin to appear and continue until frost.
Henry Pittock, founder of Portland's Oregonian newspaper, built this spectacular mansion in 1914 and lived there until his death in 1919. This stately mansion was created in the style of a French Renaissance chateau and boasts three floors plus an incredible view of the city. The mansion is now a museum and showcases local history through artifacts and exhibits. Guests can tour the mansion and even book space for private functions.
A serene sanctum lying to the east of downtown Portland, this picturesque city park is unusual in more ways than one. Built on the grounds of an old volcanic cone, the park is a natural wonderland where trails and paved pathways wind through rolling meadows and dense forests. The park is also home to an amphitheater, a dog park, a horseshoe pit and courts used for various other sports. A delight for the avid hiker, Mount Tabor affords splendid views of the city's diverse landscape. Although much of the volcano's cinder cone has been paved, a part of it still remains, letting visitors in on the long-standing history and geological marvel it cradles in its depths.
For more than 75 years, The Grotto has held a special place in the hearts of the locals. The 62-acre (25.09 hectares) site is a Catholic sanctuary that also features beautifully kept botanical gardens. Visit the shrine of "Our Lady's Grotto," which is not only spiritual, but a geological marvel since it's a cave carved into the base of a cliff with a replica of the Pietà sculpture in the center of the rock cave. After admiring the shrine, take the time to tour the grounds and marvel at the beautiful plants then visit the spectacular gift shop. Visitors are also welcome to attend mass. If you want a real treat visit during annual Festival of Lights. While the lower grounds and gift shop are free to visit, there is a small fee to enter the upper levels of The Grotto.
Stroll through a forest of old and majestic trees, play frisbee on the expansive grassy fields or just sit back and watch the wildlife from a comfortable bench. Park visitors should pack a lunch and picnic under one of the shady trees. In addition to a man-made lake, you will also find a large children's play area, more than 30 acres (12.14 hectares) of grass and trails, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, restrooms and more. Laurelhurst Park has graced the City of Roses since 1911.
Pearl District will enthrall you with its local legends, thriving art scene and more. Many consider this part of town to be the heart of the art scene since it is home to galleries and boutiques. But the former warehouse district after its urban renewal, is among the best shopping districts in the city. Walk down the cobblestone streets of this neighborhood and take in the sights. Explore its markets, specialty stores, unique boutiques and eateries.
Built in 1890, John Palmer House has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978. Over the years it has changed hands many times. From being the base of the Multnomah Conservatory of Music to a B&B and an event space, this lovely structure still holds its charm.
Constructed in 1880, the John Tigard House is regarded as one of the finest structures in town. The home is located in the Tigard region of Oregon. It depicts the Queen Anne style of architecture and the house functions as a museum. It is predominantly a one-and-a-half storied construction, with a few ethnic elements of the Carpenter Gothic style. It constitutes three bedrooms and the half story comprises of varied artifacts of the historic society. Tours for groups in different slots can be availed through an advance intimation.
Located on the streets of Portland, the Emerson Apartments stands out in its appearance with the beautiful Early Commercial style architecture. Standing still on less than one acre of land., this three story structure is lovely from within too, and is registered on the National Register of Historic Places
Before Pioneer Place, there was this plaza. The original center of downtown Portland, the plaza was alive with business and entertainment and had a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It got a facelift in the 1980s when MAX, the local light rail, made tracks. The square is busy on weekends now, thanks to the Saturday Market, a city flea market and bazaar. The square, complete with Skidmore Fountain circa 1888, still has a bit of an historic feel.
Established in 1855, this is one of the oldest bone orchards in Portland. It's located right on Morrison Street, so there is some traffic noise, but it still manages to be a tranquil place in the city. Graveyard fans will find many interesting markers here, obelisks, a creepy Gothic crypt, and a memorial to the Grand Army of the Republic with Abraham Lincoln's face on it. The cemetery is popular with noisy crows that hop between the markers.