Unlike other large American cities, Portland is a place to stop and smell the roses. You can start by doing just that at the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park, with thousands of rose plants and over 500 different varieties. New rose varieties developed around the world are sent here to be planted and tested.This mesmerizing garden truly embodies Portland’s nickname, ‘The City of Roses’. You can also experience some Zen in picturesque Portland Japanese gardens that are spread over 5.5 acres and contain five different garden styles created with stones, water and plants. As you enter this mini-paradise, the lush greenery lets you soak in peace and tranquility, while transporting you away from stress and worry.
Commuting around Portland is easy, owing to excellent public transport networks. Portland is one of the most environment friendly cities and is proud of its legacy of having preserved many open spaces. There are plenty of scenic parks to explore and relax in, such as the Portland Classical Chinese gardens, Mount Tabor Park, Forest Park and Oregon Zoo, among others. No wonder Portland was awarded the Greenest City in America.
Apart from parks, Portland has a lot on offer for those who love arts and culture. The Portland Art Museum and the various Art galleries are worth a visit. Book lovers must visit Powell’s City of Books, occupying an entire city block and arguably one of the biggest independent bookstores in the world. Portland also has an array of outdoor activities that you can indulge in. Surrounded by majestic mountains, rivers and vineyards, no trip to Portland can be complete till one gets out of town to wine, dine and play.
Portland also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year to celebrate its beer brewing culture, which attracts tourists from all over America. The city has also been recently recognized for its budding restaurant and established coffee culture and is widely hailed as the most vegetarian friendly city in America.