# Visiting the Portland International Rose Test Garden

## Walk through a century-old garden hosting over 10,000 colorful rose bushes.

### Matt Wastradowski

Matt Wastradowski is an Oregon-based travel writer who loves writing about the great outdoors, craft beer, and regional history.

In Portland, there is no surer sign that spring is here and summer quickly approaching than colorful rose blooms across the city. And while you’ll find gardens on quiet side streets and in pastoral parks alike, there is no grander display than the International Rose Test Garden (or the Portland Rose Garden, as locals call it) in Washington Park.

Roughly a century after the first flower was planted, the garden remains the oldest testing ground for new rose varieties in the country and is home to over 10,000 rose bushes representing more than 600 varieties.

The garden is open daily, and admission is free. While great city and Mount Hood views are offered year-round, the best rose-viewing months are May through September. (When you’re finished admiring the flowers, head just uphill to the majestic Portland Japanese Garden for more fabulous flora.) Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Portland International Rose Test Garden.

## Know Before You Go

Parking around the rose garden is limited, especially on sunny spring and summer weekends. Consider pairing your MAX Light Rail trip to the grounds with a ride on the Washington Park Free Shuttle.

## Washington Park Attractions

### The Rose Garden is just one of many reasons to visit.

**History of the International Rose Test Garden**

Long before the International Rose Test Garden planted its first bush, Portland was in love with the delicate flower. After a local philanthropist held a rose showcase that inspired an annual rose show, the city was hooked and within a few years, burst into bloom; with approximately 200 miles (321k km) of urban roses, it’s no wonder Portland is known as the Rose City.

**International Rose Test Garden Features**

Ready to visit? Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know — and what to enjoy — at the Portland International Rose Test Garden.

**Rose Garden Views**

The roses are undeniably the star attraction at the garden, but Mount Hood towers over the city skyline to the east, creating a picturesque backdrop to the beautiful setting.

**Rose Garden Tours**

Free public tours led by knowledgeable guides are offered at 1 p.m. daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Tours depart from the Rose Garden Store.

**Specialty Gardens**

Four specialty gardens are nested within the broader rose garden, each reflecting a different theme. The Royal Rosarian Garden, for instance, honors members of the Royal Rosarians — an organization whose members serve as goodwill ambassadors for Portland. Another shows off award-winning roses, the Shakespeare Garden hosts roses named for characters in the Bard’s plays, and the fourth is where various roses — including miniatures — are tested for possible commercial release.

**Events at the Rose Garden**

The garden sits adjacent to the Washington Park Amphitheater. This grassy, multi-tiered venue routinely hosts film screenings, live music, dance and theater performances when weather permits in spring and summer.

**Souvenirs at the Rose Garden Store**

If you’re looking for a rose-themed souvenir, stop by the Rose Garden Store at the southern edge of the garden. The gift shop sells locally-made bath and body goods, home decor, magnets and other rose-inspired items.

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**International Rose Test Garden FAQ**

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**How much does it cost to go to the International Rose Test Garden?**


**How much does it cost to go to the International Rose Test Garden?**

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**When should I visit the Portland Rose Garden?**


**When should I visit the Portland Rose Garden?**

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**Why is it called the International Rose Test Garden?**


**Why is it called the International Rose Test Garden?**

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**What is a Rose Test Garden?**


**What is a Rose Test Garden?**

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**When do roses bloom in Portland?**


**When do roses bloom in Portland?**

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**Why does Portland have so many roses?**


**Why does Portland have so many roses?**

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**Is the Rose Garden accessible?**


**Is the Rose Garden accessible?**

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**How many roses are in the International Rose Test Garden?**


**How many roses are in the International Rose Test Garden?**

## Nearby Gardens & Flowers

### Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Round out your floral explorations of the Rose City with a visit to Southeast Portland’s lush Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. The park boasts more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, with blooms from late February -June.

### Peninsula Park & Rose Garden

Discover outdoor fun for the whole family — plus thousands of blooms — at Oregon’s oldest public rose garden.

### Portland Japanese Garden

The Portland Japanese Garden offers visitors year-round serenity at a woodland sanctuary in Northwest Portland, spanning 12 acres of botanical gardens inspired by the flora and fauna of Japan.

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