Founded in 1928, the 189-acre Hoyt Arboretum features over 170 different tree families and 6,000 individual trees. The species represented originate from every continent except Antarctica. Visitors can either explore the arboretum on their own via the park’s 12 miles of trails or take a guided tour. Travelers with children will want to check out the family-friendly activities like seed paper workshops and “Tree Time” for preschoolers. There are also adult classes on everything from forest bathing to mushroom identification walks (prices range from $15 to $30).
Past visitors raved about the arboretum and many expressed their surprise that such a tranquil place exists within city limits. Travelers also encouraged future tourists to take their time when exploring the trails and advised planning a trip around one of the arboretum’s weekend guided walks.
The arboretum is located within Washington Park, southwest of the Portland Japanese Garden and north of the zoo. Parking, which is limited, costs $2 per hour or $8 for the day. Visitors should opt to take the MAX Blue or Red line to the Washington Park stop. You can also bike, though note that even regular bike commuters think it’s a very steep ascent to the arboretum.