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.
An oasis of greenery in the scenic environs of Northwest Portland, this municipal park's topography is defined by the slopes and opaque old-growth forests that are sustained by the Tualatin Mountains. A large establishment as far as urban parks go, these protected lands are spread over 5,100 acres (2,064 hectares) that are dotted with relatively-even pathways and trails for hiking and bicycling, which make virtually every nook and corner of the park easily-accessible. A landscape of diverse and complex ecosystems, these forests are home to the hairy woodpecker, Pacific jumping mouse, orange-crowned warbler, northern pygmy-owl among many others. A paradise for plant lovers, the park grounds are bejeweled with exotic Hooker's fairy bells, evergreen violets and English ivy.
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.
Resembling a community garden you would find in Suzhou, Portland's sister city, Lan Su Chinese Garden is a beautiful green space near the bank of the Willamette River. The garden is complete with winding pathways, gorgeous plants, a lovely tea-house and a gift store. You can take a tour to get insider knowledge of the garden and try to come during one of their many interesting events, including exhibitions and lectures. This place is a must-visit for its unique beauty. You can even hire this garden for private events such as weddings and receptions.
The Oregon Zoo houses animals from all parts of the world. Spread over 64 acres of land, there's always something to see. Here one can observe animals in their natural habitats, including elephants, bears, penguins and monkeys. Hop aboard the train for a zoo tour or rent a special stroller wagon for the kids. After a busy day of animal watching, enjoy a waffle ice cream cone from the snack bar, dine at the on site cafe or enjoy a picnic lunch on the lawn.
Portland Japanese Garden includes waterfalls, koi filled ponds, a wisteria arbor and even a tea-house that was built in Japan with ancient construction techniques. It features five unique gardens. The Strolling Pond contains the five-tiered stone pagoda lantern given to Portland in 1963 by Sapporo, Portland's sister city in Japan. Many events are observed in the gardens, including Children's Day, the Tanabata Star Festival and the Obon Spirit Festival. Garden curators also offer classes in Japanese culture and gardening techniques.
Fly over beautiful vineyards and luscious hillsides of the Tualatin River Valley. Your crew handles the balloon expertly and tells tales of ballooning and local history. Vista Balloon Adventures is dedicated to customizing your experience, so go ahead and discuss your dreams with them. A tour includes brunch after the voyage. The flight is about an hour long, but the whole affair lasts about three and a half hours.
Tour the Oregon wine country with the experts. Tours start at your doorstep, and you can choose to visit any of five different wine communities in the Portland area, with meals that accent the wines and feature Oregon fare included with each tour. Visit wineries that are not usually open to the public and taste rare wines. Most tours are for groups of eight to 10 people, and prices vary by tour so be sure to check the website to create the ideal trip for you and your wine-loving friends.
If you're curious about what exactly makes Portland the brewing capital of the country, it might be a good idea to sign up for a tour with the Portland Brew Bus. After gathering with your group in the lobby of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland, at 1.30p, you are taken on a four-hour journey of breweries like Widmer Brothers Brewing Company, The Old Lompoc, Bridgeport Brewery and Pyramid Brewing, and you get to sample many of their famous creations. If you don't wish to participate in the public tour, you can opt for a charter tour that will begin from a destination of your choosing.
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.
Do away with mainstream tourist traveling and embrace the way Portland should actually be experienced - on foot. Conducting walking tours with a difference, Know Your City tours highlight the city's quirks that make it so special. From special 'People's History of Portland Tours' that tell the story of this city from an outsider's lens to sing-along tours that make their merry way through Portland's musical riches, Know Your City has something for everyone. An expert, fun-loving guide is on board, making the experience more enjoyable. Private tours suited to your group's needs and expectations can also be arranged, on request. Tours run from May to mid-September, Thursday to Sunday. While the tours are free, a good tip is always welcome!
Apart from renting kayaks and retailing in outdoor apparel, what Scappoose Bay Kayaking excel in is tours of the great outdoors. The wetlands of the surrounding area is rich in wildlife and home to a variety of migratory birds. A lot of the area comes under protected forest reserves where few venture and the habitat is as virgin. The variety of tours, including Wetlands, Cunningham Slough, Eco-Quiet Kayaking, Full Moon Cruises, for all ages, conducted by Scappoose Bay Kayaking give paddlers the opportunity to observe wildlife and marine habitat from up close.