I was out running some errands the other day (walking some errands, actually, since I’m attempting to live a car-free lifestyle whenever possible due to my fear of Portland traffic), when I remembered that Eric had stumbled upon a rose garden on a recent run.
So I kept on walking, and what do you know? There’s an international rose test garden tucked into the hills. Is my complete lack of Portland knowledge becoming too obvious?
I started by climbing approximately 500 stairs at the corner of W Burnside and NW 24th. (Yes, you can enter the woods just a block away from Urban Outfitters. What a world.)
And suddenly, I was in this precious little amphitheater, which almost made me want to sprawl out and take a nap. (Perhaps that was an effect of the 500 stairs?)
And then, the smell. Oh, the smell. Roses, roses, roses. I’m not even really a “rose” kind of person, but this place was beautiful and intoxicating. And I’m pleased to report that there was still plenty of bloomage in early October. Apparently, there’s a view of Mt. Hood on a clear day, but we’re kind of running out of those for the year.
But the best part is, you can wander around (for free) for as long as you please. Your nose will thank you.
The Portland Rose Garden is just a small part of the beautiful Washington Park, also home to walking paths, trails, views, the Oregon Zoo, and a children’s museum.
-Ally
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