Local Guides World
Top Botanical gardens in Portland, United States
Top Rated Botanical gardens in Portland
Top Reviewed Botanical gardens in Portland
The Grotto
Leach Botanical Garden
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland Japanese Garden
Hoyt Arboretum
Bamboo Garden in Hoyt Arboretum
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Min Zidell Healing Garden
Winter Garden
Reviews
They had a cool dragon dance to celebrate lunar near years! We took refuge in the tea house for warmth. Would definitely come back spring/summer - I imagine it’s even prettier then.
Pretty cool for a day trip, the tea house is awesome, but located in a sketchy part of the city. If you have to choose between the Chinese and Japanese Garden, I would go for the Japanese Garden. You can probably get through Lan Su in about 20mins unless you stop for tea and photos.
We had a wonderful time celebrating the Chinese New Year this evening and learning about the Chinese New Year culture and traditions. We enjoyed some light Chinese snacks and tea at the beautiful tea house.
Wow amazing place. So beautiful, peaceful and cozy. Take the tour, well worth it to learn more about the history and culture of the garden.
Always a great place for a short walk, a medium length hike or just a picnic.
Every season offers a new atmosphere be it the cherry blossom time, fall foliage, sunny summers or lush green wet winter time. So there is no bad time to visit. Most trees are labeled which is great. There are lots of intersecting trails of various lengths and difficulties. Some trails are paved and accessible. Others are more rugged and can get wet in winter months. There are trail markers everywhere and lots of connecting trails.
There are usually paid parking spots easily available right near the visitor center. Also, free street parking right outside that which can be more difficult to find.
Every season offers a new atmosphere be it the cherry blossom time, fall foliage, sunny summers or lush green wet winter time. So there is no bad time to visit. Most trees are labeled which is great. There are lots of intersecting trails of various lengths and difficulties. Some trails are paved and accessible. Others are more rugged and can get wet in winter months. There are trail markers everywhere and lots of connecting trails.
There are usually paid parking spots easily available right near the visitor center. Also, free street parking right outside that which can be more difficult to find.
So many fun little trails great for everyone, including handicap. A fun sense of nature, with all the comfort of knowing restrooms and parking lots are close by. Fun for picnics, getting to know someone, fun little date or a fun time with the family
Probably THE Most popular tourist place in Portland city. Claimed to be the biggest Japanese garden in north America. True to the fame, the garden is really well designed and staffed. Beautiful view throughout the year. Often you can find surprise local Japanese capture presentations at the site for free. Also right next to the Japanese garden is the beautiful rose garden. so lot of things to do there. At the top of the hill, some time it could get chilly. Bring a thick jacket if needed.
Not a fan of Japanese garden, especially with $21+ admission but not much to see.
For photography visit, the famous tree (seen everywhere with fall foliage posts) is actually in small/medium size. Somehow the trees are twisted in a way and probably grow slowly. Other than the fall colors, nothing more special.
For photography visit, the famous tree (seen everywhere with fall foliage posts) is actually in small/medium size. Somehow the trees are twisted in a way and probably grow slowly. Other than the fall colors, nothing more special.
The Portland Japanese Garden has long been a favorite place to spend a peaceful relaxing day by myself or with my family. It's one of the most authentic Japanese Gardens outside of Japan and has some cool art, bonsai, and ikebana exhibits throughout the year. Definitely a recommended place to visit!
Beautiful arboretum. Has charm in fall, when trees play with every color. The entire area is super clean and well kept. If every place was this clean, world would be nicer place.
I went here 2 years ago in a winter. Went here again this fall. Both seasons are beautiful in very different ways.
Serene, beautiful and natural space to spend time reflecting. Fall colors are popping. Critters are romping. Such a magical place.
A really beautiful garden and awesome tasting tea. It's only $3 entry for EBT/Snap card holders. The only downside is the area of town is covered in homeless. I didn't feel safe walking with my daughter here or parking our car nearby. Have someone drop you off and pick you up later if possible.
An absolute oasis of tranquility in the heart of Portland. Easy access from the Max line also makes it convenient to get there from many locations. Fully walled off with tranquil water features, this is a reproduction of a Japanese scholars home from centuries ago. Plenty to see and do, guided and non-guided tours available, and a tea house on site. One note is that as of October 2023 the tea house is closed and being renovated, bit they are opearting a pop-up tea shop where you can buy tea and accessories and a cup of hot tea during your visit. I'm glad we took the time to visit while in Portland for a convention, totally worth it.
Wonderful gem in Portland. Authentic style Chinese Garden with lovely architecture and details. Tea house was closed sadly but I understand it will be coming back thankfully. Fun tip is to take off your shoes and walk barefoot on the amazing polished stone walkways for a nice foot massage. 100% recommend this place. The plantings, detailed architecture and authenticity are worth seeing. Also it's critical to support local gems like this.
Well it is a magical place for sure, you would not guess how small the footprint actually is when you go in! Such marvelous design!
The tours are great and very informative, scrolling around on your own also very much recommended! There are so many details to see and so many angles to watch them from!
Nighburhood is a little tough though! There is a parking garage right across the street as well!
Be ready to spend 1-2 hours immersed in the enchanted garden there! If you time it right depending on the season you might get to see people doing Taichi or other things in the terrace!
Cleanness: very clean
Staff: super friendly and helpful
Parking: there is parking nearby but does not feel like the safest place to park!
The tours are great and very informative, scrolling around on your own also very much recommended! There are so many details to see and so many angles to watch them from!
Nighburhood is a little tough though! There is a parking garage right across the street as well!
Be ready to spend 1-2 hours immersed in the enchanted garden there! If you time it right depending on the season you might get to see people doing Taichi or other things in the terrace!
Cleanness: very clean
Staff: super friendly and helpful
Parking: there is parking nearby but does not feel like the safest place to park!
I swear, I think this park was the only place I really liked about Portland. It seemed like we were in a completely different place. It was so beautiful and there were so many trails to walk on. There was a nice playground for the kids and the rose gardens were stunning. The only thing that did turn us off were the prices to see the Japanese garden.. I dont remember the price per person but it was just too much for our family of 4 so we didnt see it. But we loved walking through the arboretum part.. so much of it we didn't get to see.. but honestly going back to this park would be the only reason I'd ever want to go back to Portland.
This is an oasis in Portland. The grounds are meticulously kept, and the buildings are beautiful recreations of historic Japanese structures. There are tours offered, a gift shop, and a modern tea house on site. However, it was an hour and a half wait on the Sunday we visited, so we had to skip it. It is a hike to get from the shuttle drop off area or parking to the top of the hill where this resides but there is also a free shuttle back and forth from the top fi you need it. Limited options for refreshments: On Sunday afternoon we went, I was informed they had sold out of water, but there were a few water fountains available. The bathrooms are nice, and the garden areas are varied. Your experience may be affected by others who don't understand keeping their voices subdued in tranquil and relaxing settings. There are plenty of small seating areas to enjoy some snatched privacy or the views. On a clear day like we had you can also catch an amazing view of Mount Baker in the distance towering over the city.
Definitely worth a visit! It was super peaceful and so beautiful. They have tours there but it seemed like most just walked through on their own. It’s not huge so you can get through it somewhat quick so take your time. The paths are uneven but there was a sign saying they did that on purpose so you would be forced to take your time. It’s all very intentional which is super cool. All the sounds of nature are really pretty and it’s well groomed. Bought our tickets ahead of time so we got in pretty quick at our allotted time. There is parking up top and I think it’s a couple bucks an hour but we just walked our way in. I’m sure the parking fills up quick though. There’s a nice little cafe and gift shop and information center at the top before you walk into the garden as well. The gift shop was cool and it seemed like the cafe had some authentic options.
Great area with lots of trails. The changing leaves are especially pretty right now. Small visitor center by one of the parking lots, has two bathrooms. There are paid lots or you can park on the side of the road.
Such a solemn place to visit. A priest is available at the Visitor Centre from 3pm-5pm for confessions and blessing of religious articles. If you have time, the garden on top is worth a visit.
Lovely gardens and grounds to walk around in almost all types of weather and seasons. Admission is reasonable and so are the tea house prices. Stop in first to make a reservation before walking around as it is sometimes crowded. There are a handful of restrooms on site, and tickets are valid all day if you want to make a second pass. Membership lets you get in earlier and offers discounts in the shop. Worth it in my opinion if you come more than twice a year or would just like to support a non profit.
Our early October visit to the Portland Japanese Gardens provided us a monochromatic view of the beauty of the gardens. Having read some of the Google Maps Reviews, we saw how other visitors have contributed photos of beautiful gardens full of color. We missed that season by months, but that didn’t take away from our visit. We were fascinated by the textures, the variety of steps, the water. Even though the clouds were low and it began to lightly rain, it didn’t distract from our visit.
We did take advantage of the free shuttle to the top of the hill and enjoyed our stroll down.
There are no restrooms by the entrance; they are at the top of the hill.
Would love to return and visit during the other seasons.
We did take advantage of the free shuttle to the top of the hill and enjoyed our stroll down.
There are no restrooms by the entrance; they are at the top of the hill.
Would love to return and visit during the other seasons.
Parked right next to the visitors center and paid $8 for parking the whole day. There were a lot of other hikers, but many times we were completely alone walking the trails and it was so peaceful. The maps were easy to follow and we did a handful of trails in just 3 hours. A lot of birds to spot. We saw chicakdees, juncos, a hawk, etc. A must see when you’re in the Portland area.
I was in Portland about 10 years ago and the Grotto was on my list of places to visit. Unfortunately my job assignment ended early and I was unable to visit. Saturday 9/16/23) was my last day in Portland and I spent half a day at the Grotto. Words are not enough to express my thoughts and feelings I felt here. I'm thinking about coming back for the festival of lights because it looks like it will be a spectacular experience.
I am stunned!! Absolutely, a beautiful place to visit. The grounds is a easy walk for all ages. Mass is held daily and outside if the weather is cooperating. There is also a garden on the upper level that is worth the $9 (lower level is free). Very peaceful place.
Very beautiful! The architecture, pathways, and water features were pleasant. I was anticipating a wider variety of interesting plants, but it looks like the architecture is the main focus and the plants are largely filler. Also, it only took us 45 minutes at a leisurely place to make it through the whole thing. I wish it would've lasted longer for the price of the ticket.
A solemn place. Not crowded when we went there on a Saturday around 11am. The Grotto is ver beautiful and the nuns are very nice.
Very beautiful Japanese garden. A wonderful and educational place for family pastime and enjoy Japanese culture. We walked for 2 hours and enjoyed it very much. We managed to see the feeding of koi carp, it was very interesting for the children. Beautiful and very picturesque place, solitude and peace. Wonderful gift shop. There is a restaurant nearby in case you get hungry after a 2 hour walk through this incredible place. The price justifies expectations. Thank you very much, we will definitely be back.
Cute way to spend an hour. Pretty, peaceful garden with two levels. Even on a hot day we were kept fairly cool for most of it. I went with a family with young kids and they were happy to run around outside (although the signs say not to. Try telling that to a five year old.) We all really liked the elevated loop you can walk around the trees.
There is a little store with snacks and plant goodies on the bottom level, if you want to sit and refresh a little.
Cute little mini day trip!
There is a little store with snacks and plant goodies on the bottom level, if you want to sit and refresh a little.
Cute little mini day trip!
Pretty sweet spot to walk around and enjoy the plants. Took my kids there for a concert. Kids were free (under 5, only paid $10 for the wife and I.
The staff was great. Super friendly and thoughtful.
The staff was great. Super friendly and thoughtful.
Redwood trail has been the fave. Good inclines. Wildwood trail is also great to hike through. Restrooms at the visitors center. Plenty of parking. Great place for all. Will definitely go again and try different variations of the loops. Make sure to grab a map at the visitors center. Cellular reception is hit or miss.
Absolutely gorgeous sanctuary! Right close to the airport, you have to come on your way in or way out :-) feel the peace of God in this place. They have mass on weekdays at 12 PM. You can see the gorgeous lower gardens for free. Children are five dollars and adults are $10 to go into the upper gardens. We only saw the Lord gardens and love them. we came very early, at 8:45 AM. We spent about half an hour here and it was well worth the visit. Everything is so peaceful here. You will love it. Peace, Joshua
Nice little stroll in the garden.
So beautiful. All kinds of different colors.
The bridge is only 140 meters long or so. So don't to excited about it being too long.
$5 entry fee
So beautiful. All kinds of different colors.
The bridge is only 140 meters long or so. So don't to excited about it being too long.
$5 entry fee
Fantastic place, great for a mild hike through wondrously and fragrant trees, and even the parking lots have surprises to find - I've seen 3 species I've never seen before (one was still a baby). Surprisingly
few bugs - I guess the park's spiders are doing their job. For the challenge - find the dawn redwoods - they're tucked away in a corner which would be normally passed over.
few bugs - I guess the park's spiders are doing their job. For the challenge - find the dawn redwoods - they're tucked away in a corner which would be normally passed over.
The entrance fee was only $5 for adults, the grounds are maintained beautifully, and the tour guide was very knowledgeable.
You should definitely check out this Japanese Garden if you're in the area because it is totally worth it. You have to pay an admission fee to enter but it's not a lot and you're supporting the garden. You have to take a small hike to go to the main entrance but it is well worth it. They have a little cafe here but there isn't a lot of options so just be aware. The view that you get of the waterfall, design and being with nature is wonderful. You can spend a good 30 minutes just walking around and enjoying your view. There are also workers around the garden as well if you need help or someone to take your picture. We really like the main little waterfall that they have here. Parking is not free I think so just be aware that you might have to pay for that as well. They have a little gift shop where my wife got an earring from. Just follow the pathway and you won't get lost.
This place gave us a lot of surprise. We didn't expect it to be a big place. Here is the sightseeing place as well. It's also a good place for hiking. You can spend at least 3 hours over here.
Very beautiful garden. Admission is $5, but they do have a free “Garden for All” pass for people who can’t pay that. Scenery is amazing, and I highly recommend this place.
Even though I'm not religious, I had a fun time walking the grounds. The flowering plants, trees, and birds were fun to see. I liked seeing the displays/replicas of how other cultures celebrate the religion. The statues were also cool to see. The grounds are beautiful and wish I could be here at sunrise with my camera, but I don't think they are open yet.
This is a beautifully curated botanical garden! Very easy-to-navigate trails with well-marked signs, friendly staff all around, and not to mention the cool tree walk! Easily worth the $5 entrance fee. Worth a visit!
This is a beautiful place lovely scenery lots of trails just a beautiful, beautiful place
The beautiful lodge was closed for repairs; the stone cabin was unreachable because winter flooding washed away the foot bridge. The grounds appear a bit bare because of how cold this spring has been. This place is still a treasure, but maybe wait a month or so for more warmth to produce a lusher garden.
Magical, don't miss potion of the Arboretum. We visited it twice on our recent visit to take it all it's natural beauty. It was nice to see so many bamboo not vandalized.
Small but peaceful. One would think the woman filming her yoga insta in the pathway would pick a day other than Saturday afternoon. Selfish
Breathtaking trails that lead to and out of the bamboo garden. The garden itself was very small but the surrounding park was beautiful and vast.
Very pretty garden, the trails around it were partially blocked with fallen trees. Smelled bad down at the bench, smaller then expected but still a beautiful patch!
The wooden deck on the Spruce trail was my favorite spot. Nice trails throughout. Great to get some fresh air and countryside vibes.
Eh, it was OK. Very small. Walked the many trails north west of the garden. Expect it should be beautiful in spring and fall. For now alot of moss. Still better than sitting at home!
Great place to sit and relax and calm your mind.
This was the first time I have ever been to the place I was awestruck
Very peaceful
Relaxing little park with beautiful roses in many colors, and interesting placards about herbal healing. I parked in the little lot across the street.
This garden is part of the NUNM campus, and it is fenced but the gate is almost always open. It contains a wide array of medicinal herbs from western, Ayurvedic and Chinese cultures, though they are not all marked. There are also some colorful sculptures. There is a circular open area which is used for Tai Chi classes and other activities. There is also an open shelter with benches where you can meet when it is raining. This is a lovely space in an otherwise urban area.
Pleasant little garden in the middle of the city.
Great restful meditation spot
Great place to meditate or listen to your headphones if you live in the neighborhood.
Gorgeous and deeply peaceful grounds. Completely worth paying the extra to visit the upper gardens, too. Also helpful to know they have light snacks (chips, water, etc) available to purchase at the gift shop and the visitor center, if you need something.