In between the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean and the steep peaks of Mt. Hood lies the vibrant and ever-growing city of Portland, Oregon. Portland is undoubtedly proving itself to be one of the most beautifully colorful and welcoming cities in the nation. Here are eight of the best views in Portland that will give you every reason to check out the City of Roses for yourself.
1. Mt. Tabor Park
As one of Portland’s Historic Landmarks, Mt. Tabor’s peak reaches about 636 feet in elevation and is a dormant volcano that now holds one of Portland’s most beloved parks. The park provides an outdoor amphitheater, picnic areas, and multiple sporting courts. If you’re just looking for a pleasant stroll, you’re in luck because it will result in this gorgeous view of the city’s skyline.
2. Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Looking towards Waterfront Park gives you the perfect opportunity to see why we are considered the "Bridgetown." Not only do you get to see all eight of our bridges, but if you cross one of them you also get to happen upon the beautiful grassy park and its delicious food carts. If you make it on a weekend, you really won’t want to miss the renowned Portland Saturday Market.
3. Washington Park
Although the 400 acres of the majestic forest in West Portland are reason enough to check out Washington Park, there is so much more that it has to offer. It includes the Portland Zoo, the World Forestry Center, our famous rose garden, and the Pittock Mansion (where you can find this breathtaking view).
4. Cathedral Park
Taking a stroll in Cathedral Park is beautiful for reasons other than its luscious greenery. If you walk directly under the St. John’s Bridge and look west, you can catch the surreal view of some of Oregon’s dreamlike forestry, which makes this view one of Portland’s true hidden treasures.
5. Portland City Grill
Portland is packed with delicious restaurants, but none with a view quite like this one. If you sit near a window at Portland City Grill, you get to look out at the Willamette River and the horizon that follows it.
6. Portland Japanese Gardens
An oasis hidden smack dab in the middle of downtown Portland, the Japanese Garden includes five very different, but very glorious gardens. There is a piece of beauty in every direction that you look, whether it’s the Japanese architecture or the cherry blossom trees that grow above the magical mossy surfaces.
7. James Woodhill Park at Rocky Butte
Drive up the hill and through the tunnels to the top of Rocky Butte, where you can gaze at Mt. Hood and the majestic city of Portland.
8. White Stag Sign
Last, but certainly not least, is the iconic "Portland Oregon" sign. Once known as the "White Stag" sign, this city staple has been around since the 1940s. It was officially bought by the city in 2010 and has now become the pinnacle of Portland. If you catch it around twilight, you can see the sign framed by the cityscape, reminding daily commuters what city spirit is all about.
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