When I need to unwind, I find myself drawn to a garden. It's a quiet, peaceful place to contemplate, reflect, and just relax. We are blessed to live in some of the most beautiful areas of the country where there are gardens all around. If you are in the mood to visit one of the best gardens in Oregon, the following spots might just do the trick.

1. Hoyt Arboretum, Portland

Along a ridge in the West Hills of Portland lies a rare species of tree: the Dawn Redwood. The saplings were brought over from China in the last century sharing the beauty with this arboretum. This is one of the more popular arboretums in Oregon and after one visit, it's easy to see why.

2. Oregon Garden, Silverton

This magnificent Oregon garden, while home to many splendid flora and fauna, also hosts the only Frank Lloyd Wright designed home in Oregon.

3. Bush's Pasture Park, Salem

This public park and botanical garden provides the good people of Salem with apple orchards and majestic White Oak tree pastures dotted with cherry harvests.

4. Elk Rock Gardens of the Bishop's Close, Portland

The Elk Rock Gardens of the Bishop's Close was created in 1916 and for almost a century it has stood the test of time where visitors can view Magnolias and Cascades among many other treasures.

5. Leach Botanical Garden, Portland

Acclaimed botanist Lilla Leach began this incredible garden in Oregon with over 125 different species of ferns for Portland.

6. Martha Springer Botanical Garden, Salem

Students of Willamette University sometimes refer to this gem as the "secret garden" but it's open to the public and should be viewed for its' wonderful butterfly and rock gardens. This is just one of many things to do in Salem, Oregon.

7. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Gardens, Portland

Azaleas dot this beautiful garden but the winged animals are just as impressive: herons, Canada geese, and hummingbirds abound. A visit to this Oregon garden is one of our favorite things to do in Oregon in spring.

8. International Rose Test Garden, Portland

You can't see the "City of Roses" without visiting this garden, which contains thousands of rose plants!

9. Shore Acres State Park, Coos Bay

Whimsical Japanese lily ponds are aplenty at Shore Acres State Park but the gray whale migration season is an unforgettable experience.

What do you consider the best gardens in Oregon? Is there one you love to visit over and over again? Tell us in the comments! And if you plan to spend some time outside or wish to visit one of these gardens on a day trip, make sure you bring along everything you need. This travel bag is one of our favorites.

And for even more Oregon adventures, take a look at the following Only In Your State video.