Where to See Cherry Blossoms 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 blossoms.

From March to April, cherry blossoms burst into bloom throughout the Pacific Northwest. This year, I’m already seeing some blossoms blooming in my neighborhood.

Many of our wonderful Portland parks are filled with these marvelous trees. I’ve rounded up the very best places to take in the beautiful, fragrant cherry blossoms around the city. Also, most of these locations are free to visit. 

Want to see even more blooms? View our guide to must-see spring flowers in Portland.

View Cherry Blossoms in Portland

“spring cherry blossoms, waterfront park” by brx0 is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Since 1990, cherry blossom trees have graced the waterfront of Portland. The 100 trees are part of the Japanese American Historical Plaza that starts at the Burnside Bridge and extends north along the waterfront to the Steel Bridge. The backdrop of the Willamette River with a large expanse of green grass make this spot magical.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park is the most popular place to view cherry blossoms in Portland. 

Afterward, take a short walk to the Japanese American Museum to learn about the history and culture of Japanese Americans in the Pacific Northwest. Admission to the museum is free on the first Sunday of the month!

Waterfront Park is located at Naito Parkway between SW Harrison Street and NW Glisan Street in Downtown Portland.

“Tabor” by Andrew Larsen licensed under is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Mt Tabor

Known as Portland’s urban volcano, Mt Tabor is a hot spot of activity year round. With an incredible backdrop of the city, this park’s cherry blossoms offer a tremendous photo opportunity.

Cherry blossom trees are sprinkled throughout the whole park, but the best view is just above the water reservoir along 60th Avenue.

Mt Tabor is located in Southeast Portland at SE 60th Avenue and Salmon Street.

University of Portland

The quad. The square. The courtyard. Whatever you called the general meeting place at your university, chances are it had an expansive lawn and bordered by pretty foliage.

At University of Portland, this space happens to be adorned with a giant bell tower surrounded by cherry blossom trees. Blossoms may be at their best during spring break, so bring a blanket and take in the solace by the bell tower.

In North Portland, U of P is located at 5000 N. Willamette Blvd.

Hoyt Arboretum

This is a great place to see all of the wonderful spring blooms. The arboretum has 60+ cherry blossom trees along the 12 miles of trails with some late-blooming species that make the season last even longer. If you’re looking for a leisurely hike to stop and smell the flowers, this is your place.

View cherry blossom trees along multiple trails in the arboretum, including Wildwood, Hawthorn and Magnolia. I recommend exploring one of the loop trails so you can take in all the beauty of the magnificient free oasis. 

While you’re there, visit all of Washington Park on the free shuttle. This nature escape is also home to one of the best Portland rose gardens.

Hoyt Arboretum is located in Southwest Portland, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd.

Yozakura Festival

March 23-April 2

What sets the Yozakura Festival apart is its unique offering of nighttime cherry blossom viewing.

From 7 to 11 p.m. every night, visitors will witness the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms illuminated against the night sky. Thirteen mature Akebono cherry trees are illuminated with soft lights, creating a mesmerizing ambiance that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Adding to the allure of the event are special performances. Japanese traditional music groups Mitsuki Dazai-Church and Oregon Koto Kai will perform on select evenings.

View the performance schedule for the the Gresham Japanese Garden is at Main City Park at 219A S. Main Avenue in Gresham.

Portland Japanese Garden

Did you know this garden was deemed one of the most authentic gardens outside of Japan? For the most authentic cherry blossoms, I recommend visiting Portland Japanese Garden.

Portland Japanese Garden has several cherry blossom trees. The most iconic is the weeping cherry in the Flat Garden. Every year, Portland Japanese Garden has a cherry blossom watch web page that gives you frequent updates on the garden’s blooms starting in mid-March.

Admission to the garden is $21+. Bank of America cardholders can visit for free during Museums on Us weekends.

An alternative free option is the Gresham Japanese Garden. Attend the Yozakura Festival and see the cherry blossoms illuminated each evening, while the blooms last. 

Your Neighborhood Cherry Blossom Trees

If you want to stick close to home, take a walk around your neighborhood to spot your closest cherry blossom tree. This is where I have found some of the most amazing trees that I usually get to enjoy all to myself. Take a walk around your block or to your nearest park and see if you can spot some blossoms!

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