Take Time to Smell the Roses

In a Garden

(My father always used almost that exact quote to describe a walk in the woods.)
I always thought that beecause of the International Test Garden, Portland was known as the City of Roses. After reading the previous link, however, I find that there are many other reasons Portland has this nickname.

Rose Garden 1

Yes, the Rose Garden certainly has the greatest variety and covers the most acreage in the city, but almost every private yard has at least one rose bush. Must be the climate.

Rose Garden 3

It was September when I visited two years ago. May is certainly a better time to see the blooms.

Of Course, I Like the Sculpture

More Than Roses

My Favorite

The last time I visited, I took the Hop On/Off bus to get to the garden. If you are staying in Portland, take the public bus or the Hop On/Off tour. As I am staying about 12 miles away from the city, this time I drove. Be advised: parking is at a minimum in Washington Park.

Overlooks Portland

The park also covers some very steep terrain. I found a parking spot at the bottom of the hill and unloaded my bike to ride up to the garden. I am embarrassed to admit I had to dismount and walk my bike up the hill. It was fun riding back down to Ol' '95, however!

Rose Garden 5

Everyone Photoed This One