Washington Park Gift Guide:
Unique Finds from Portland’s Most Beloved Destinations
Why meander through a bustling mall for your holiday shopping when you can get all you need at Washington Park’s incredibly unique gift shops? Take the Washington Park Free Shuttle Loop and get to all four of these gift shops in minutes, or plan a hike if you’re feeling a little extra ambitious. Whether you’re shopping for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, or kids who adore animals, the gift shops in Washington Park are sure to have something for everyone on your list this year.
1 – Portland Japanese Garden
Portland Japanese Garden’s gift shop is as tranquil as the Garden itself. From exquisite tea sets and maple tree puzzles to Studio Ghibli collectible postcards, this shop offers one-of-a-kind mindful gifts for your entire family. Shop stress-free after walking through the many peaceful paths of the Garden.
- Give Mindful Treasures: Handcrafted tea sets, hand painted ceramic and origami ornaments for your tree, stress-relieving zen garden kits, and bonsai tree seed kits. Pro tip: Visit the Umami Cafe for a splash of tea and some warm miso soup after you shop!
- Share an Experience: Delight someone special with a gift membership or tickets to the Garden, or invite them to enjoy one of the Garden’s unique events.
- Support Restoration: Make a meaningful impact by donating to the Garden’s restorative spaces in a loved one’s name, helping to preserve the Garden’s tranquility and beauty for generations to come.
2 – Oregon Zoo
Imagine the thrill of enjoying ZooLights and finishing your holiday shopping in one trip! This store is packed with great merch and the softest stuffed-animals in Oregon. Take your pick of cuddly plushies, branded coffee mugs, and high-quality T-shirts, and rest assured every purchase supports the Zoo’s mission of wildlife conservation.
- Give Sweet Souvenirs: Adorable animal plushies, custom Mike Bennett T-shirts, and colorful eco-friendly bucket hats! Pro tip: Oregon Zoo members get 10% off everything in the gift shop.
- Give the Gift of Adventure: Treat the families on your list to an Oregon Zoo gift card, which can be redeemed towards membership, general admission, rides, and special events like ZooLights.
- Protect Wildlife: Support conservation efforts by donating to the Oregon Zoo in honor, tribute, or memory of a loved one. Your gift will help care for animals and preserve endangered species.
3 – Hoyt Arboretum
For the tree lover or outdoor enthusiast in your life, the Hoyt Arboretum gift shop is the place to go. Plan a hike on a sunny winter day and pick up some gifts for your friends and family. Nestled inside the Visitor Center, this shop features items inspired by the natural beauty of the Arboretum’s 189 acres.
- Give Nature-Inspired Gifts: Vintage Arboretum puzzle sets, woodland creature finger puppets for the kids’ stockings, and “Tree Hugger in Training” onesies for new parents. Pro tip: Pick up a free trail map and soak in the beauty of the forest after you shop!
- Grow Knowledge: Share the gift of learning with tickets to a Hoyt Arboretum class or event for adults or children.
- Give to the Trees: Honor someone special by donating to support Hoyt Arboretum’s trees, helping to protect and nurture this living collection for future generations. A donation of $35 or more makes you a member of Hoyt Arboretum Friends.
- Share the Gift of Time: Give a budget-friendly outing by walking the trails together, exploring the Arboretum’s beauty, and creating lasting memories in nature—all for free!
4 – World Forestry Center
The World Forestry Center gift shop celebrates all things forestry and sustainability. It’s a great spot for unique items that showcase the importance of forests and the environment.
- Give Forest Finds: “Following Fire” art-exhibit-themed books, snuggly bigfoot and jackalope stuffed animals, and Smokey the Bear beanies. Pro tip: Learn a little before you shop! The cost of admission is $8 or less and includes a mind-blowing art exhibit highlighting Oregon’s Holiday Farm Fire and the resilience of Oregon’s forests.
- Explore the Wonders of Forests: Share the gift of discovery with a World Forestry Center membership or tickets to the Discovery Museum—perfect for curious minds and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Champion Sustainable Forests: Honor someone special by donating to the World Forestry Center, supporting innovative programs, public engagement events, and a thriving community of forestry advocates.
Make Your Gifts Meaningful This Holiday Season
Washington Park gifts are a great way to support Portland’s iconic local attractions while finding meaningful items and experiences for your loved ones. Each gift shop reflects the unique character of its destination, making your gifts feel personal and special. This holiday season, skip the overrated big-box stores and make your time shopping a uniquely Portland experience. Find gifts that celebrate the beauty of nature, culture, and community—all in one unforgettable Park.
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