Portland, Oregon is undoubtedly one of the greenest cities in the world. The all-encompassing and varied public transport systems in the city almost mean that a car is unnecessary. In that regard, Portland is very European in structure, if not in climate. The summers in Portland are extremely warm and the winters are rainy but temperate. Famous for its rose gardens and good planning, the city of Portland is an interesting and diverse place to visit.
Whether you have already booked your ticket to Portland, or even if you are still in the thinking stages for next year’s vacation, here are some of the premium tourist destinations for your consideration.
International Rose Test Garden
The oldest operating rose test garden in the United States displays more than 7,000 rose plants for visitors to enjoy. It can be mind-boggling to imagine that there can be over five hundred different varieties of rose, but this wondrous garden has samples of every single one. The rose garden is not only a tourist attraction but also an area where researchers can look at fragrance, color, and resistance to disease in different species. Aside from the vegetation, the International Rose Test Garden plays host to a number of plays and musical events at a specially designed amphitheater within the gardens. Watching a play with the backdrop of the Cascade Mountains in the distance is an experience you will remember long after the vacation is over.
Oregon Zoo
This expansive and spacious zoo is located in Portland, and is the biggest tourist attraction the city has to offer. The zoo’s fame stems from the birth of “Packy” an Asian elephant in 1962, and the zoo has won much acclaim since for its elephant breeding program. The focus of the zoo is on preservation of natural habitats and of the 1000+ animals on display, at least 20 species are on the endangered list. There are many animals on display in enclosures much larger than can usually be seen at zoos. There are big cats, hippos, elephants, and reptiles for children to see up close and educational programs are in place to promote the conservation cause. Oregon Zoo is a beautiful day out for the whole family, and is open all year round.
Oregon Historical Society Museum
Whether you are interested in history, or are just interested in seeing the famous penny which decided Portland’s name many moons ago, there will be many other fascinating artifacts to interest you at this huge museum. Much of the museum is devoted to naval artifacts, and permanent exhibits include a reproduction of the hull of a ship, an old mercantile store, and strangely, a 9000 year old sandal. A good-sized art exhibit is on display in Oregon Art which has won critical acclaim for its portrayal of local artists from the ancient past to the present day. Tours are available of the museum itself, and it is open all year around to visitors who are sure to receive a friendly welcome.
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