Portland Cider Co.'s Top 7 Springtime Activities in Portland
When springtime hits us in Portland, we get a little giddy. At the first hint of warmer weather, we locals shed our hoodies and head outside to get our skin a little vitamin D. Especially the crew here at Portland Cider Company! We have lots of outdoor activities we look forward to every spring.
There are so many great ways to spend a sunny spring day in Portland, it was tough to choose just a few. And be prepared for sudden shifts in the weather—we’ve seen hail, blue sky, thunderstorms, rainbows and wind gusts happen in the space of just an hour around here. Just grab a waterproof jacket and pack a proper pint of cider, and you’ll be prepared for whatever your day brings. Here are just a few ways to enjoy spring in Portland:
1. Find a moment of Zen in the Japanese Garden
Nestled in the hills above Washington Park’s International Rose Test Garden, this authentic Japanese garden is a peaceful urban oasis. You’ll forget you’re anywhere near a city as you meander along the meticulously groomed pathways, gaze at the koi and take in one of the best Mount Hood views in Portland. Springtime is especially gorgeous, with trees and flowers bursting with new growth and blossoms.
2. Picnic at Cathedral Park
Under the shadow of North Portland’s iconic St. Johns Bridge lies the sprawling Cathedral Park, named for the bridge supports’ architectural resemblance. Pack a picnic and spend a few hours tossing a frisbee on the banks of the Willamette River, soaking up the sun, watching the boats launch, and feeling the river breeze.
3. Watch the cherry trees blossom at Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Spring doesn’t officially arrive in Portland until this downtown park is bursting with the blossoms of 100 ornamental cherry trees. The trees were planted as part of a memorial to Japanese immigrants and descendants who were deported to internment camps during World War II. Enjoy a walk along the bustling waterfront, do some serious people-watching, and take a moment to breathe in the sweet scent of the blooms.
4. Join a SOLVE Cleanup
SOLVE is famous for its beach cleanup, but there’s no need to travel beyond the Rose City to lend a hand! Help keep these spaces clean and beautiful by joining a litter cleanup, habitat restoration, or invasive species removal event scheduled in neighborhoods all over Portland. It’s a great way to get outside, be active, and make an impact.
5. Wander through Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
One of the better-kept secrets of SE Portland is this peaceful garden near Reed College. Native rhododendrons dot the trails, but there’s no shortage of other beautiful trees and plants, as well as a lake at the heart of the garden. Pro tip: the modest $5 entry fee is more than worth the experience, but entrance is completely free on Mondays!
6. Sunset at Council Crest
Over 1,000 feet above sea level, this vantage is believed to be the highest point in Portland—and a perfect spot to watch the sunset. A special observation area and a clear sky will give you views of five of our region’s grand mountains: Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, Mount Hood and Mount Jefferson. Spread a blanket on the west-facing slope and settle in for a beautiful end to a sunny spring day.
7. Hike up Mount Tabor
The tree-covered cinder cone remnant of a long-dormant volcano rises above Portland’s east side, welcoming hikers, bikers, kids and dogs to its friendly slopes. There are endless recreation options, from tennis, basketball and volleyball courts to a horseshoe pit and picnic areas. Paved roads, foot paths and stairs provide easy access to the 636-foot summit, with reservoirs, playgrounds, and gorgeous views all the way up. When you’re done for the day, hit up the Portland Cider House at SE 37th & Hawthorne for a refreshing RazzBerry or Lemon Lime Ciderade.
BONUS: Cruise the Hood River Fruit Loop
If you’re hoping to wander a little further from the city limits, we can’t overstate how much we love this drive. By April, enough of the 29 produce stands have opened to make it worth traversing the scenic 35-mile loop around the Hood River Valley. It’s a win-win-win: local farmers get your business, you get the freshest produce available, and the farmers keep growing those amazing Northwest apples so we can make our cider!
