Looking for a fun, outdoor activity like no other? Let me tell you why a self-guided tour of Portland's monkey puzzle trees should be your next adventure. Monkey puzzle trees, Araucaria araucana, are one of the most unique looking species in our city. I remember the first time I noticed one I … [Read more...] about Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees
Nature
2022 Free Days at U.S. National Parks
The national parks get even better during free days. America's Best Idea — our national parks — is even better when admission is free! Mark your calendar now for entrance fee-free dates for the coming year. On these dates, free entrance is available at national parks across the country that … [Read more...] about 2022 Free Days at U.S. National Parks
2022 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks
Enjoy Washington's best nature trails during free days at Washington parks. In 2022, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is offering outdoor enthusiasts 12 free days to get out and see the wild side of the Evergreen State. Access to Washington State Parks typically requires a … [Read more...] about 2022 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks
Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area
Walk the trails of Tryon Creek Natural Area with outdoor experts during guided nature walks. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in moss with huge … [Read more...] about Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area
Swift Watch at Chapman Elementary School
Swift Watch is back September 2022! See one of the greatest natural phenomenons happening in Portland. Every year, Vaux's Swifts roost in a chimney located in Northwest Portland. If you love birds and incredible nature sights, you'll want to attend at least one night of Swift Watch. Swift Watch … [Read more...] about Swift Watch at Chapman Elementary School
7 Salmon Spawning Locations Near Portland
Bumper-to-bumper traffic and high rises popping up on every block can make us forget about the natural wonderland just outside of the metro area. By taking a short trek east or west, we can breathe the fresh air, escape the noise and witness an incredible natural phenomenon happening right in our … [Read more...] about 7 Salmon Spawning Locations Near Portland
Best Places to See Fall Colors in Portland
The crisp air, cloudy skies and intermittent rainstorms mark the changing of the season in Portland. As we transition from hot to cool weather, our city shines with pops of red, yellow, orange and gold around every corner. Fall colors in Portland reign supreme. Starting in October, the … [Read more...] about Best Places to See Fall Colors in Portland
Sunflower Field at West Union Gardens
Standing out in a field of beautiful flowers and taking pictures with your loved ones is a great outdoor activity for everyone. The West Union Gardens sunflower field is now in bloom for the 2022 season. Get tickets for this popular attraction at the Hillsboro you-pick farm. Sunflower Field at … [Read more...] about Sunflower Field at West Union Gardens
Ride the Free Shuttle at Washington Park
Washington Park is the keeper of Portland's best attractions. The International Rose Test Garden, Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, and more dazzling sights are all housed within the 410-acre property. The best way to access the attractions at Washington Park is on the free shuttle. The Washington Park … [Read more...] about Ride the Free Shuttle at Washington Park
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden: Southeast Portland’s Botanical Oasis
Nestled between Reed College and the Eastmoreland Golf Course is an urban oasis called Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. On the 9-acre property grows a collection of rare species and hybrid rhododendrons, azaleas, shrubs, companion plants and unusual trees. The garden blends water and land as … [Read more...] about Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden: Southeast Portland’s Botanical Oasis
7 Great Portland Picnic Parks
By Marie Sherlock The idea of a meal shared al fresco in a lovely natural setting has been around for a very long time—perhaps since Adam and Eve and that apple. So while picnics don't really represent an up and coming trend, they do rank very high as a budget-friendly way to see the city … [Read more...] about 7 Great Portland Picnic Parks
2022 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks
Get out and enjoy Portland metro parks during free parking days. In 2022, there are 19 free parking days at Portland metro parks, a beach and boat ramps that typically charge a $5 parking fee per car. All of these locations get you up close to our unique waterways, including the Columbia and … [Read more...] about 2022 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks
Fall Native Plant Sale with Sparrowhawk Native Plants
Sparrowhawk Native Plants is hosting a fall native plant sale with an expansive species selection available for purchase. This local company provides eco-minded gardeners in the Portland and Vancouver area with habitat-friendly and climate-resilient plants that support healthy … [Read more...] about Fall Native Plant Sale with Sparrowhawk Native Plants
Sunflower Fields at Packer Orchards
Have you ever seen a sunflower field in bloom? This isn't a common sight in the Pacific Northwest, but every year Packer Orchards grows an incredible sunflower field open for picking. If you're looking for a fun road trip to a picture perfect destination, make sure you get to this sunflower field … [Read more...] about Sunflower Fields at Packer Orchards
Fitness in the Park Offers $5 Classes
Portland Parks & Recreation is helping you achieve your fitness goals this summer in our beautiful community parks. Fitness in the Park invites people of every fitness level to join in the outdoor fun. Seven local parks are participating with fitness classes taking place Monday-Friday. … [Read more...] about Fitness in the Park Offers $5 Classes
Dash for Doughnuts at the Fremont Fun Run
Enjoy a fun jog through the neighborhood and get a tasty treat for your achievement during the Fremont Fun Run. The Beaumont Business Association is hosting a 3k fun run with obstacles through the Beaumont Village. This neighborhood's main drag is Fremont Street, which has a bunch of great … [Read more...] about Dash for Doughnuts at the Fremont Fun Run
Wildwood Welcome Party at Forest Park
Head to Forest Park for a special outdoor celebration. Wildwood Welcome Party is a free event open to all. The Forest Park Conservancy has a variety of experiences planned for people of all skill levels, including family-friendly activities. Enjoy yoga in the park, ivy basket weaving, a … [Read more...] about Wildwood Welcome Party at Forest Park
Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day
Oregon State Parks Day is June 4, 2022. Make the most of the 100th anniversary celebration with free admission, camping and fishing across the state. A hundred years ago, a 5-acre donation by Sarah Helmick created Oregon’s first official state park. Today, the state park system has 254 park … [Read more...] about Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day
Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks
Find a great urban park in your neighborhood Finding a place where you can escape the city may be easier than you think. Many of us leave Portland to enjoy nature and find it isn't quite what we expected. I am sure many of you have experienced the dread of driving an hour to a hiking … [Read more...] about Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks
Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm
Get up close with farm animals and enjoy family-friendly activities during a Farm Walk About. Every spring and summer, Frog Pond Farm invites the public to spend the day enjoying life on the 40-acre property. On the weekend, bring your family to explore the farmyard by feeding animals and playing … [Read more...] about Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm
Portland’s Free Rose Gardens
Stop and smell the roses at these four Portland rose gardens. Portland is the Rose City, so it is only natural that rose gardens are one of the main attractions. Rose gardens have taken root rich history of our city. The four gardens highlighted below have been public attractions for more than … [Read more...] about Portland’s Free Rose Gardens
Looking for Wildflower Hikes? Use This Bloom Map
Get out and enjoy our region's beautiful flora on a wildflower hike. You'll always know what's in bloom with this map. Spring has sprung in the Northwest. We've already seen many of the best springtime blooms filling our neighborhoods and parks with vibrant colors. If you enjoy hiking and want to … [Read more...] about Looking for Wildflower Hikes? Use This Bloom Map
Earth Day Celebration at Leach Botanical Garden
Celebrate the Earth Day with a special celebration at Leach Botanical Garden. Leach Botanical Garden is a natural oasis nestled in Southeast Portland. The 16-acre estate features more than 2,000 plant species growing along the banks of Johnson Creek. Adding to the unique charm is the historic … [Read more...] about Earth Day Celebration at Leach Botanical Garden
National Park Week: Free Entrance Day and Virtual Activities
During National Park Week, April 16-24, 2022, you can explore our country's most stunning national parks, both in person and from home. The National Park Service is helping us connect with nature through a free entrance day and digital opportunities that bring the national parks to … [Read more...] about National Park Week: Free Entrance Day and Virtual Activities
Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park Grand Opening
A new nature park has opened in the heart of Oregon City. Attend the grand opening this weekend and partake in fun family-friendly activities. Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park is a 236-acre forested park featuring a multiuse trail system that provides more than 2 miles of walking paths and nearly … [Read more...] about Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park Grand Opening
Where to See Cherry Blossom Trees in Portland
After another grey, cold winter in Portland, I think I speak for all of us when I say spring cannot come soon enough. Thankfully, Portland is filled with one of the best signs that spring has officially sprung—cherry blossom trees. From March to April, cherry trees burst into bloom throughout the … [Read more...] about Where to See Cherry Blossom Trees in Portland
Must-See Spring Flowers in Portland
As the city shakes off the winter blues, signs of the changing season are popping up all over Portland. Some of the first spring flowers in your neighborhood are likely crocuses and tulips. Next are the cherry blossoms, rhododendrons and, finally, our city's crowning buds, roses. Springtime … [Read more...] about Must-See Spring Flowers in Portland
Go on a Spring Break Adventure in and around Portland
Spring break in Portland is the ideal time to get out of the house and explore the many wonderful places our corner of the Northwest has to offer. If you're looking for a unique experience for the entire family, look no further than these spring break activities both in and around … [Read more...] about Go on a Spring Break Adventure in and around Portland
Whale Watching Season on the Oregon Coast
Oregon is truly a natural wonder. In Portland, we're lucky enough to live a short drive from the mountain and the ocean. If you're looking for an unforgettable day trip or want to get out of the city during spring break, head to the coast for whale watching. Nearly 25,000 gray whales will be … [Read more...] about Whale Watching Season on the Oregon Coast
Spring Garden Fair at Leach Botanical Garden
Celebrate the beginning of a new season, nature and gardening at the Spring Garden Fair. Leach Botanical Garden is a natural oasis nestled in Southeast Portland. The 16-acre estate features more than 2,000 plant species growing along the banks of Johnson Creek. Adding to the unique charm is the … [Read more...] about Spring Garden Fair at Leach Botanical Garden
2022 MLK Day Events in Portland
Honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. at one of these activities in and around Portland. On Monday, January 17, 2022, celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. by giving back to your community, getting out into nature or tuning in to community leaders and activists. All of … [Read more...] about 2022 MLK Day Events in Portland
Guided First Day Hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Start your new year off on the right foot at Tryon Creek State Natural Area's first day hike. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in moss with huge ferns lining the trails that leads to the waterway. More than 658 acres … [Read more...] about Guided First Day Hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland
You’re finally done grocery shopping. The house is clean. You have a schedule of what's cooking for the next 24 hours. It is officially the calm before the holiday storm. But there is still one thing you might have overlooked: what do to with your guests over Thanksgiving weekend. Make new … [Read more...] about Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland
Free State Park Entrance on Black Friday
Choose to #OptOutside on Black Friday Want a change of pace this Black Friday? Skip the hyper-consumerism and work off that holiday meal at your favorite state park. On Friday, November 26, receive free state park entrance in Oregon and Washington. Autumn day at Washington State Parks Washington … [Read more...] about Free State Park Entrance on Black Friday
Multnomah Falls Requiring Timed Tickets This Summer
Planning a trip to Multnomah Falls this summer? Before you hit the road to visit one of the most popular destinations near Portland, make sure you read through these new requirements. Starting July 20, visitors to Multnomah Falls must reserve a timed ticket online. On a busy summer … [Read more...] about Multnomah Falls Requiring Timed Tickets This Summer
Yoga in Nature at Hoyt Arboretum
Yoga in Nature is returning to Hoyt Arboretum. If you're ready to improve balance, flexibility, strength and calm in a beautiful outdoor setting, claim your spot for an upcoming yoga session. This class is a great addition to the arboretum's nature-themed weekly events such as Tai Chi and … [Read more...] about Yoga in Nature at Hoyt Arboretum
Leach Botanical Garden’s Aerial Treewalk Opening April 16
Leach Botanical Garden is a natural oasis nestled in Southeast Portland. The 16-acre estate features more than 2,000 plant species growing along the banks of Johnson Creek. Adding to the unique charm is the historic manor house, stone cabin, bridge crossing and gift shop. The … [Read more...] about Leach Botanical Garden’s Aerial Treewalk Opening April 16
Explore the Beverly Cleary Walking Tour in Northeast Portland
Did you know you can honor Beverly Cleary's literary career right here in Portland? The beloved author gave us so many delightful childhood tales, many based in our city. You can retrace her childhood and children's books on this free Beverly Cleary walking tour. Beverly Cleary was born in … [Read more...] about Explore the Beverly Cleary Walking Tour in Northeast Portland
Virtual Nature Journaling with Hoyt Arboretum
While the trails at Hoyt Arboretum remain open for visitors, many of the center's programs and classes have been reduced. To bring our community closer to nature from the safety of our homes, Hoyt Arboretum has started offering virtual classes. Virtual nature journaling lets you explore … [Read more...] about Virtual Nature Journaling with Hoyt Arboretum
Leach Botanical Garden’s Spring Plant Sale is Now Online
Plants from the Leach Botanical Garden's collection is now available for purchase online. The historical garden hosts its spring plant sale every year for gardeners who like to fill their yards with unique, beautiful plants from the garden's collection. This year, the garden is offering a unique, … [Read more...] about Leach Botanical Garden’s Spring Plant Sale is Now Online
National Park Service Waives Entrance Fees to National Parks
In an effort to support social distancing, the National Park Service is temporarily suspending all national park entrance fees. While visitor centers, facilities and tours at the national parks are shut down, many have remained open for people to explore. Visitors are urged to abide by CDC … [Read more...] about National Park Service Waives Entrance Fees to National Parks
Weekend Guided Tours at Hoyt Arboretum
Learn Something New on this Nature Adventure The Hoyt Arboretum is a wonderful green space that is free to all visitors. This place has so many fun activities for outdoor lovers. The landscape features a vast collection of labeled tree species for personal exploration. The stewards of the Arboretum … [Read more...] about Weekend Guided Tours at Hoyt Arboretum
Frugal Getaway to Cannon Beach
By Amy Orazio Your Cheap Beach Getaway Awaits An overnight getaway to the Oregon Coast is always appealing: there is nothing like a winding drive through thick trees and an afternoon or two in fresh ocean air to blow away the rigors of city living. (Okay, so Portland is not that rigorous, but … [Read more...] about Frugal Getaway to Cannon Beach
Lesser Known Instagram-Worthy Spots in Portland
5 Unique Photo Ops in Portland, Oregon When I first moved here, some of the iconic photo ops I took were downtown. I'm sure all of us have snapped a photo of the White Stag sign or posed in front of the Keep Portland Weird mural outside of Dante's with a pink box of Voodoo doughnuts in hand. The … [Read more...] about Lesser Known Instagram-Worthy Spots in Portland
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