Features International Rose Test Garden

one of several gardens within international rose test garden

the international rose test garden has 4.5 acres (18,000 m) in several tiers facing downtown portland, willamette river, , east portland. on clear days, there views of cascade mountains, mount hood featured prominently.

an amphitheater hosts many events throughout year, predominantly classical music concerts , few plays. during weather, amphitheater popular picnicking , flying disc games. queens walk brick walkway @ side of garden bronze star honoring each rose festival queen since 1907.

the shakespeare garden contained botanicals mentioned in works of william shakespeare. later modified include fewer sun-loving plants due copious shade provided surrounding trees. there formal walkway, raised sitting area, , immaculately tended flora. rose varieties named after characters in plays. popular special occasions, particularly small weddings.

the gold medal garden formal garden award winning roses, walkways, central fountain, , gazebo. frequent site weddings.

the royal rosarian garden has paid tribute since 1924 goodwill ambassadors , official greeters serve in many rose festival events. each rosarian knighted, adopt rose variety namesake. rose planted in garden each of highest ranking rosarian prime ministers. garden-within-a-garden contains many roses no longer commercially available.

the miniature rose garden 1 of 6 such testing grounds american rose society. elevated beds @ entrance popular unique varieties.

the rose garden store opened may 1, 2000, provide guest services.

an abstract stainless steel sculpture , fountain called frank e. beach memorial fountain (1975) lee kelly, along several other fountains, mix classical , modern styles. each area of rose garden has unique character: rose varieties, trees, terrain, lawn.

the roses , other plantings tended 1 year-round gardener—two during summer—and many volunteers. approximately 500 hours volunteered yearly local enthusiasts