Do Valentine’s Day the Portland way by taking your significant other outside in a park this year. Here is a list of our top romantic park spots to get you in the mood.
Photos courtesy Portland Parks & Recreation
1. Chinese Garden New Year Celebration: gardens illuminated by hundreds of lanterns and traditional music and performances combine for an unforgettable evening.
2. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden: The pathways and bridges guiding you and your sweetheart around this spring-fed oasis are romantic any time of year.
3. Leach Botanical Garden: The quiet paths and magical plants spanning Johnson Creek in this historic botanical garden will enchant your valentine.
Photos 5 and 6 courtesy Portland Parks & Recreation
4. Tanner Springs Park: Renew your love at the site of an unearthed wetland pond once buried beneath the industrial landscape. While small, this park allows plenty of space for quiet reflection and sweet nothings.
5. Washington Park Rose Garden: This park always has a way of blooming love in the hearts of Portlanders and visitors alike any time of year. Step into the Shakespeare garden and recite your favorite sonnets for an added romantic effect.
6. South Waterfront Park: If you haven’t been to the new park space along the south waterfront it is a perfect date night destination. Get in early for a waterfront dinner and then digest on alcove seating surrounding garden planters and pools. Skip stones from the south waterfront beach to round out the experience.
Photo 7 courtesy Metro; Photos 8 and 9 courtesy Portland Parks & Recreation
7. Broughton Beach: Romance is in the air at this beach. A sandy beach and sailboats slicing through the majestic Columbia River makes for a perfect stroll arm-in-arm.
8. Laurelhurst Park: The weeping willows and paths around the lake in Laurelhurst Park are a picturesque backdrop for a budding romance.
9. Peninsula Park: Over 10,000 crocus blooms will delight you and your date in this historic park known for its summer rose displays. If it is drizzling during your visit, the National Heritage designated pavilion is a great place to sip hot chocolate and overlook the gardens.