Portland is a green city. No, I do not mean green in the Al Gore/environmentally friendly way (though Portland does win praises for that kind of "greenness" too). I'm referring to the color. Portland is a city of trees and gardens. the positive side to all the rain that the city experiences is consistent presence of that color.

Portland's Classical Chinese Garden is one of the best in the city. It is exactly what the name suggests, a garden that brings to mind Peking more than Portland.

Leach Botanical Gardens, South of the city, features plant life that originated a little closer to home. Species and hybrids from the Pacific Northwest.

The International Rose Test Garden is a beautiful place to spend a summer afternoon. Fans of the world's favorite flower will be treated to sublime scents and sights.

Portland's public gardens are a great addition to any itinerary.

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