10 Of The Most Enchanting Man-Made Wonders in Portland
Portland has plenty of natural scenery that it is easy to forget about all the man-made delights of the city. With a rich history spanning back to the late 1800s, Portland has had plenty of time to chock up some pretty delightful man-made wonders as well. Check out these 10 man-made wonders for a tour through the city's eras, styles and architecture.
1. St. John's Bridge
Standing at over 400 feet high, the St. John's Bridge is a force on the Willamette River. Stately and pronounced for its gothic-style towers, underneath is home to the aptly named Cathedral Park, a beautifully designed park worth a visit.
2. Pittock Mansion
Built by Oregonian publisher Henry Pittock and his wife Georgiana, this stately mansion sits beautifully restored in the west hills today for all to see.
3. Jamison Square Fountain
The focal point of this Pearl District park is the fountain, which simulates a tide pool as is cascades from the stone structure that makes up the fountain. A great place in the summertime for children, the park has been in operation since 2000.
4. Keller Fountain
Located in downtown on Third Avenue across from Keller Auditorium, this concrete water fountain is a beauty. Inspired by waterfalls on the Columbia Gorge, the fountain is named after Ira Keller, the head of the Portland Development Commission from 1958 to 1972.
5. Lan Su Chinese Garden
Billed as one of the most authentic Chinese gardens outside of China, the Lan Su garden is a sight to behold. Featuring a man-made lake in the center of the city block on which the garden sits, the garden is modeled after the gardens of Suzhou, China.
6. Portland Japanese Garden
This 5.5-acre traditional Japanese garden features plenty of natural elements, but the man-made garden is designed to give a sense of peace and tranquility to its visitors. Featuring 5 main sub-gardens, the garden heavily plays upon the mixture of stone, water and plants to create a wonderfully composed place of beauty.
7. The Old Church
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Old Church has been standing since 1882. Unused as a church since 1965, the building is currently run by a non-profit and used for concerts, weddings and other events.
8. Multnomah Public Library
Built in 1913, the library was designed by prominent architect A.E. Doyle. Check out the stone inscriptions surrounding the building, which name the great thinkers of the generation.
9. Union Station
Standing since 1896, this building is one of the classic sights of the city. Though the recognizable Go By Train sign was added in the 1940s, thankfully this testament to a bygone era of train travel continues to stand.
10. Hollywood Theater
Lending its name to the neighborhood, the Hollywood Theater is a focal point in the sprawling neighborhood that has blossomed around it. Operating since 1925, this landmark is an Eastside institution that continues to draw crowds.
What is your favorite man-made wonder in the city? Let us know in the comments below.
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