Tour The International Rose Test Garden

Portland is undoubtedly beautiful, but there’s a little charming gem there that may just take your love of the city to the next level. It’s here that you’ll find the Washington Park International Rose Test Garden which is essentially where new rose varieties are tested. How great is that? It’s one of several testing sites, and it’s absolutely lovely. The garden has been around for decades, but one of the best aspects is that you can actually visit it. Let’s talk a little more about what you should know about – and what you’ll find at – the International Rose Test Garden.

Rose Garden Store
Love roses? Then you’ll want to check out the Rose Garden Store at the International Rose Test Garden. They’ve been open since 2000 and proceeds help support the public rose gardens in Portland. Just some of the many items you’ll find include soap, lotion, tea, ornaments, bowls, mugs, honey, and clothing and accessories. You could easily find a slew of items for yourself and gifts for all those in your life who love roses as much as you do.

Rose Varieties
There are so many incredible roses and over 500 rose varieties that you’ll find at the International Rose Test Garden. To make it super easy to find the specific roses you want to see, there is a Rose List Legend available that depicts the name, type, and bed. Some roses that you’ll find in 2016 include All American Magic, Aloha Hawaii, Black Cherry, Champagne Wishes, Chocolate Sundae, Coffee Bean, Pink Knock Out, The Poet’s Wife, Stormy Weather, and Secret’s Out.

Test Gardens
Within the International Rose Test Garden, you’ll find the Miniature Rose Test Garden as well as the Shakespeare Rose Test Garden. The latter was moved to Washington Park in 1945 from its previous location, and the former was established in 1975. You’ll also find the exquisite Gold Medal Garden and the Royal Rosarian Garden. All are so lovely that they’re certainly worth checking out.

Visiting
Speaking of checking out the International Rose Test Garden, they’re open from 7:30 am to 9 pm, and there are even free tours that are offered at 11:30 am Tuesdays and 1 pm on the weekends. The tours take place from June 2 through September 19. To take the tour, you’ll meet at the store. Should you want to take a guided tour and you’ll be visiting with a group of 10 or more, you can take the tour during the year but there is a small fee charged per person.

Volunteering
Want to be a part of the efforts of the International Rose Test Garden? Consider donating your time. Don’t worry if you love roses but don’t particularly have a green thumb. Tasks include everything from planting to pruning to leading tours. It’ll be a great way to surround yourself with beauty while also giving back.

Should you decide to pay a visit to the International Rose Test Garden, make sure to confirm their hours and availability before you arrive to ensure that all your plans will go as you hoped.