Portland’s International Rose Test Garden
I heard test garden and I immediately thought test kitchen, as in America’s Test Kitchen. But turns out Portland’s International Rose Test Garden ranks #2 on Tripadvisor for Things to Do in Portland.
And while I like gardens, with limited time in Portland, this wasn’t going to make it on my list. But the day was beautiful and it wound up fitting in my with schedule so I decided to stop by.
And I’m glad I did, or I would have missed out on one of the most beautiful rose gardens I’ve seen in my lifetime.
Parking for the gardens are by the tennis courts, which also feature heavily budded plants straggling across the chain-link fence. They smell wonderful but don’t scream amazing garden.
Then a few flights of stairs down and you come out on a little slice of heaven.
More beautiful, unique roses than I knew how to take in.
I had incredible luck on my Portland trip, weather in the 80s with plenty of sunshine and a light wind that wafted the smell of roses throughout the air. I altered my schedule abit and lounged on one of the benches enjoying the sites and smells.
Would it be as amazing when the roses aren’t all blooming? Probably not. But if you’ll be in the area mid-May to mid-June, it’s definitely worth a stop. And the Portland Japanese Garden is beautiful year round!
ha, was just there three days ago – loved it!
Glad you enjoyed my home. There’s also a lilac garden you should check out also!