8 Things to Do in Washington Park for $8 or Less
For a day of affordable fun in Portland, Washington Park is the perfect spot. With scenic gardens, cultural landmarks, and a wide range of activities, there’s something for everyone—without breaking the bank. This week, we’re highlighting eight ways to enjoy Washington Park for $8 or less, from playing at the Children’s Park and exploring art exhibits to enjoying a family picnic or embarking on a scavenger hunt. Discover everything our iconic Park has to offer, all while keeping your wallet happy.
1 – Play at the Children’s Park
Monkey bars, twisty poles, ladders to climb, ramps to run up and down—it’s everything playground dreams are made of.
2 – Work on Your Stroke
Grab a partner and your racquet, and head to the six tennis courts located next to the Rose Garden for a match or two.
3 – See Art Exhibits
Don’t miss the rotating exhibits, documentary films, and unique experiences included with regular admission at the World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum ($5-8).
4 – Dine Al Fresco
The Park is full of picnic tables! Pack a picnic and snag a spot in the shade.
5 – Stop and Smell the Roses
Stroll through the 4.5-acre International Rose Test Garden, then buy a memento from the Rose Garden Store. Everything in the store either looks, smells, or tastes like a rose, has a rose on it, holds a rose in it, or is made for growing roses.
6 – Take a Break at Portland Coffee Roasters
Cascade Café serves premium local coffee, refreshing fruit smoothies, and other grab-and-go items at the entry plaza of the Oregon Zoo.
7 – Have a Family Scavenger Hunt
Pick up a Children’s Adventure Map from Hoyt Arboretum’s Visitor Center, and see if you can find all the leaves, cones, and flowers listed.
8 – Walk Through History
Visit the bronze statue of Sacajawea holding her son, Jean-Baptiste, near the main circle of the Park. Nearby, you’ll see the Lewis and Clark Memorial; President Theodore Roosevelt laid its foundation in 1903.
