The International Rose Test Garden is simply amazing and a must-see when you are in Oregon, especially from May to September. We always bring our out-of-state visitors here and it tends to be the most memorable experience they have. We have even brought people here when the roses are not blooming because the views are so good.
Portland International Rose Test Garden
Located in downtown Portland and part of the larger Washington Park, your kids can run around and enjoy themselves. There is an amphitheater and I believe that sometimes there is free live music here, but we have never seen anyone play here. There is also a massive playground next to it that is handicap accessible.
Here they have over 400 species of roses and this is why Portland is often referred to as the Rose City. The International Rose Test Garden offers great views of Portland and Mt. Hood. The Japanese Garden basically shares a parking lot with the rose test garden, so visiting both in one day would be easy and doable. You do have to pay for parking here, but it is not very much and the machines take credit cards. 
These photos were taken during late May and there were already tons of roses, but still, hardly any compared to the blooms that come out in late June. I have visited in August as well and there are blooms everywhere.
If you are looking for somewhere in Portland to take pictures of your kids or family photos this would be an ideal spot. After you are done here check out the historic Pittock Mansion. It’s nearby.
Important Tip: Do not take a rose, the fine is hefty.
Read Next:
Leave A Comment