Blissful Blooms:
Where to Find Cherry Blossoms in Washington Park
Every spring, Portland transforms—cherry blossoms in hues of pink and white blanket the city. With the blooms comes a growing excitement for the arrival of warmer days and longer, sunnier evenings. While most Portlanders are familiar with the cherry blossom trees in Tom McCall Park in downtown Portland, they may not know that Washington Park is also home to some of the city’s finest cherry-blossom finds. These beauties typically bloom from mid-March to early April and show their color for two to three weeks.
Consider this your guide to Washington Park’s most stunning cherry blossom displays.
International Rose Test Garden
While the roses won’t bloom until later in the year, early spring brings a different kind of floral magic to the International Rose Test Garden. Look for cherry blossoms lining the outskirts of the Garden, offering a soft, pastel contrast to the geometric rows of rose beds. A highlight of this area are the large cherry blossom trees next to the Rose Garden Store, which burst into a magnificent display of pink petals each spring. You can find even more cherry blossoms along the tennis courts between the Rose Garden and Portland Japanese Garden. This spot is perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic under the trees while enjoying the surrounding beauty.
Portland Japanese Garden
For a more immersive cherry blossom experience, head up the hill from the International Rose Test Garden to Portland Japanese Garden. The Garden’s cherry trees bloom in breathtaking harmony with its serene landscaping, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting to enjoy on a spring day in Portland. Stroll across the Moon Bridge, take in the view from the Pavilion, and enjoy the delicate petals drifting on the koi pond. If you’re feeling thirsty, stop by Umami Café and grab a hot tea to-go so you can sip while you walk through the Garden.
Arts for All: You might be eligible to receive discounted admission. Portland Japanese Garden is a proud participant of the Arts for All program, offers $5 tickets for Oregon and Washington residents who participate in the SNAP program and provide their Oregon Trail or Washington Quest cards (or another proof of receipt) upon arrival. Annual $20 Moon Bridge Memberships are also available to families receiving public income-related assistance.
Hoyt Arboretum
Plan the perfect spring hike through Hoyt Arboretum and keep your eyes peeled for pink and white petals. The Arboretum features a diverse collection of flowering cherry trees, including the Yoshino and Shirofugen species. The Yoshino species blooms from March to April, while the Shirofugen follows from May to June. These trees, part of the Rosaceae family, can reach heights of 25 feet with an equally wide spread, making them a stunning sight in full bloom. Find the most incredible cherry blossoms blooming south of the water tower nestled in between the Overlook Trail and Hawthorn Trail. You can also encounter some (mostly white) cherry blossom beauties near the south entrance of the Park on Marquam Trail tucked in behind World Forestry Center. This is a wonderful way to get your body moving, take some highly coveted cherry blossom photos, and soak in the vibrant colors of spring while enjoying the fresh air.
Make the Most of Cherry Blossom Season
Parking in Washington Park can be extremely challenging on sunny spring days. Skip the stress and hassle of parking by taking TriMet straight to Washington Park to enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Hop on the MAX Blue or Red Line and exit at Washington Park Station, conveniently located near the south end of Hoyt Arboretum. You can also take TriMet Line 63 straight to Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden. Once you’ve reached Washington Park, the Free Park Shuttle Loop makes it easy to explore all of the iconic destinations within the Park!
Have a favorite cherry blossom spot in Washington Park? Make sure to tag us in your posts @explorewashingtonpark! 
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