From the mountains to the city: 6 beautiful spots to see in Portland, Oregon

Head to Portland, Oregon's largest city to find a buzzing metropolis set amidst the beautiful stunning backdrop of the Pacific Northwest.

Sitting at the juncture of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, Portland boasts both waterfront splendor and spectacular views of Mt. Hood, which towers more than 11,000 feet into the clouds. If you're looking to take in the diverse charm of Portland, consider some of these top spots.

1. Mount Tabor Park

Sitting atop an extinct volcano, Mt. Tabor Park offers some of the most spectacular views of the city. This wooded setting offers a blend of paved pathways and loop dirt trails, all leading to the scenic view at the top. Once you reach the peak, take in the panorama of downtown Portland, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and Mt. Adams. The park's reservoirs nestled along the paths also provide photo-worthy backdrops.

2. International Rose Test Garden

Portland is nicknamed the City of Roses, and a visit to the International Rose Test Garden will show you exactly why. Founded in 1917, it's the oldest continually operated public rose test garden in the country. As you stroll through the garden's 7,000 rose bushes, take in the gorgeous views of Downtown and Mt. Hood. The garden is free and open year-round, but May to September offers optimal rose viewing. If you're visiting during the summer months, take one of the free public tours offered daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
 

3. Portland Japanese Garden

Feel as though you've teleported to Japan at Portland Japanese Garden. Said to be As one of the most authentic Japanese gardens, it boasts several different garden spaces. Explore the tea garden, the strolling pond garden, the flat garden, the sand and stone garden and the natural garden. Each areas boasts manicured lawns, peaceful paths, zen gardens, gorgeous flowers and several ponds. Take a break at the Umami Café to enjoy a traditional Japanese tea service. 

4. Pittock Mansion

Pittock Mansion, built by the former owner of The Oregonian newspaper, Henry Pittock, is a remarkable link to Portland's past. Explore the mansion's elegant rooms, uncover the city's history and then enjoy a picnic in the flower gardens. The 1914 mansion sits rests on 46 acres approximately 1,000 feet above the city, a position that offers some of the best views in Portland. Drive straight to the mansion or trek the 5.3-mile trail from Lower Macleay Park.

5. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

A nine-acre garden just moments from Downtown, the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden specializes in rhododendrons, azaleas and other unusual plants and trees – all nestled within the beautiful grounds. The renowned garden is at its peak in April and May when the flowers are in full bloom. However, the lush greens, waterfalls and picturesque bridges provide a beautiful setting all year round. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting more than 90 bird species that call the garden home.

6. Joseph Wood Hill Park

Sitting atop the extinct volcanic cinder cone of Rocky Butte, Joseph Wood Hill Park is a real historic gem located northeast of the city center. Make your way up the butte and exit the car to explore the 2.38-acre field. Here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas in every direction, including views of downtown, Portland International Airport, the Cascade Mountain Range and Mt. St. Helens.

Do you know other beautiful spots in Portland or elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest? Share your favorites with us on Facebook and Twitter.