The Sauvie Island Bridge originally opened in 1950, and spans the expanse of the Multnomah Channel of the Wilamette River. A towering steel arch dominates the center of the bridge, and extends both above and below the deck. Connecting the significant urban and industrial areas of Portland to the agricultural island that lies north to the city, the bridge is a convenient pathway for crossing the river and replaced an erstwhile ferry that used to traverse this island. The new remodeled bridge that is visible to residents and tourists today opened in 2008.
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.
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.
Rows and rows of rhododendrons, azaleas and other native plants are set amongst a lake, springs, and waterfalls at the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. The "rhodies," as Portlanders call them, are beautiful trees of all sizes and color flowers. May and June are months when most of them bloom and the color is truly spectacular. Admission prices vary depending on season, but they never squeeze your sightseeing budget. This is a perfect setting to bring someone special and enjoy a romantic evening together.
Just outside the city, this 12,000-acre (4856 hectares) sanctuary offers an example of the diversity of the Pacific Northwest. Operated by the Fish and Wildlife Department, the island has pathways that are ideal for bicycling. There are more than 250 species of birds in the wetland area. If you are here in the spring, you can even pick your own berries. Do not be afraid to eat a few, there are plenty for you and the birds, too. In addition to birds, the wilderness is home to several species of mammals and reptiles.