Looking for Cherry Blossoms in Portland? Here is everything you need to know.
Portland is an underrated destination for cherry blossoms. We didn’t realize until we moved there, how many cherry trees were planted throughout the city. Since cherry blossoms have such a short blooming period, it’s always exciting when we catch them at the right moment.
Timing is always the toughest part, but if you catch them at the right moment, it’s magical. Keep in mind the dates are rough estimates for when they bloom. They can bloom early or late depending on the weather, and the blooms can be short-lived with all the rain in Portland.
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Last Updated: February 5, 2024
When and Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Portland Oregon
Here are the best spots to find cherry blossoms in Portland.
1. Japanese American Historical Plaza at Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
45.5239576,-122.6717726, map
When: Late March – Early April
Hours: 5 AM – 12 AM
Admission: FREE
If you only have time for one spot, this is the one to go to. We love how the cherry blossoms are lined up, so you can easily shoot between the rows for a tree tunnel effect. The 100 Akebono trees were donated by the Japanese Grain Importers Association back in 1990.
See More: 15 Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in the US
2. Hoyt Arboretum
4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR 97221, map
When: Mid-April to May
Hours: Daily 5 AM – 10 PM
Admission: FREE
Hoyt Arboretum has 60 late-blooming Shirofugen Cherry Blossoms. Besides the Shirofugen, you can also find Shogetsu Cherry Trees as well. Follow the path to where the Wildwood & Hawthorn Trails meet to find the best area to see the cherry blossoms and dogwoods. It’s also beautiful in the fall.
3. Laurelhurst Park
SE Cesar E Chavez Blvd & Stark St, Portland, OR 97214, map
Hours: Daily 5AM – 10:30PM
Admission: FREE
We loved walking around this park when we lived in Portland. It’s a popular park amongst locals since it’s surrounded by neighborhoods. Across the street from the playground, you’ll find a variety of blooming flowers, including cherry blossoms and rhododendron.
4. Pittock Mansion →
3229 NW Pittock Dr, Portland, OR 97210, map
Hours: Daily 6 AM – 9 PM (hours for the grounds)
Admission: FREE
Head up to one of our favorite spots in the city to try and catch the cherry blossoms blooming on the grounds. Even if you miss the cherry blossoms, you get one of the best views of the city from Pittock Mansion.
See More: Your Guide to Pittock Mansion
5. Portland Japanese Garden
611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205, map
Hours: Hours Change Throughout the Year
Admission: $19.95
Find a few cherry blossoms sprinkled among this beautiful garden. I was a bit disappointed because I expected to see more cherry blossoms and some were pre-bloom.
They pride themselves in being the most authentic Japanese garden in the world outside of Japan. What’s great about this spot is that even if you miss the cherry blossoms, it’s a beautiful place to explore year round. It also includes another decent view of the city.
Local Tip: Tripods are allowed for a fee unless you are a Garden Member.
See More: Where to Find the Best Views in Portland
6. Mt Tabor Park
SE 60th Avenue and, SE Salmon St, Portland, OR 97215, map
When: Mid-April to May
Hours: Daily 5 AM – Midnight
Admission: FREE
Mt Tabor offers some of the best views in the city, and also has some cherry blossoms sprinkled throughout the park. The best spot to look for them is along 60th ave just above the water reservoir. Did you know that Mt Tabor is an extinct volcano?
7. University of Portland
5000 N Willamette Blvd, Portland, OR 97203, map
When: Mid-April to May
Admission: FREE
We’ve seen people mention that there are Cherry Blossoms at the University of Portland as well. If you head towards the giant bell tower, you should be able to find them.
Other Spring Blooms in Portland
Don’t limit yourself to just the Cherry Blossoms. There are a bunch of other beautiful blooms in Portland.
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, Eastmoreland
5801 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97202, map
When: April – May
Hours: 10 AM – 3:30 PM (Opens at 1 PM on Wednesdays)
Admission: $5 (Free on Mondays)
This garden doesn’t have any cherry blossoms, but it’s still a great place to visit for spring blooms. Rhododendrons, which can look similar to cherry blossoms, and azaleas.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
239 NW Everett St, Portland, OR 97209, map
Hours: Daily 10AM – 4PM, Closed Wednesdays
Admission: $12.95
This is another garden that doesn’t have cherry blossoms, but still has spring blooms like magnolia, orchid, and camellias.
Duniway Park Lilac Garden
SW 6th Ave & SW Sheridan St, Portland, OR 97201, map
Hours: Daily 10AM to Midnight
Admission: FREE
Not many people know about this park, but it’s a great spot if you love lilac. There are over 125 varieties! Parking is limited and strictly enforced.
When Do Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Portland
Catching Cherry Blossoms when they bloom can be tricky! In Portland, the blooming cycle typically happens in March and April, but any chance in weather can delay them by a few weeks.
On top of that, we’re always hoping to catch the peak bloom, which is when 70 percent of the flowers have opened up. You can enjoy the flowers 4-5 days before and after peak bloom, but if you’re lucky enough to catch it at its peak, it’s magical.
If you live in the area, start keeping an eye out for predictions. The most accurate ones are made 10-12 days out.
Essential Tips
- Check out the latest blooms on their corresponding sites: Japanese Garden, Japanese American Historical Plaza, & Hoyt Arboretum.
- There is a free Washington Park Shuttle that will take you between the Rose Test Garden, Japanese garden, and Hoyt Arboretum.
- Once the cherry blossoms start to bloom, visit as often as you can to ensure you don’t miss peak bloom.
- If you’re going to a crowded area, bring a tripod. You can try layering photos and make sure no one is in each section of the photo.
Best Places to Stay in Portland
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on Portland hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a PNW travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
What’s Nearby
- Columbia River Gorge (30 min / 24 miles)
- Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm (45 min / 34 miles)
- Oregon Coast (1 hr 30 min / 80 miles)
Have you seen the cherry blossoms in Portland? Any spots we’re missing?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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