The Grotto

Overview

The Grotto, a tranquil sanctuary hidden in the bustling city of Portland, is a place of natural beauty and spiritual reflection. This 82-acre natural amphitheater is nestled in the foothills of the Tualatin Mountains and features a majestic 220-foot waterfall, lush gardens, and a historic chapel.

The Grotto is a significant spiritual and recreational destination, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the urban environment. It is also a prominent landmark in Portland's history, known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

Nature Park Religious Site

Location

Address

8840 NE Skidmore St., Portland, Oregon

Neighborhood: Wilmshire

Coordinates

45.555500, -122.555500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$17

Children

$10

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• cherry blossoms
• tulips

summer

warm to hot

• extended hours
• outdoor concerts

autumn

cool to mild

• fall colors
• harvest displays

winter

cold

• holiday lights
• indoor exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather
Comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

ID water bottle tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella warm layers

not allowed

large bags drones pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven terrain
• stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $17

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing, high heels

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

The Grotto App

Size: 60 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Restrooms

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Portland International Airport

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

$40 30 min

public_transport

$5 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 8 km

bus

$2.50 20 min

taxi

$15 15 min

rideshare

$12 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, natural beauty, spiritual significance

Historical Significance: Important spiritual events happened here, historic chapel

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for locals
Best food at back entrance
Guided tours offer unique insights

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafe
• Ask for guide John
• Visit nearby Japanese Garden

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for the waterfall

Result: Great shot of the waterfall and entrance

#travel #nature #portland

Chapel

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Wide angle for the interior

Result: Beautiful shot of the chapel's interior

#chapel #spiritual #portland

Garden

Best Time: Mid-morning

Tips: Close-ups of flowers

Result: Vibrant shots of the garden's blooms

#garden #flowers #nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, garden, viewpoints

prohibited areas chapel interior, exhibitions

flash photography not allowed in indoor areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted to designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Portland Japanese Garden

Distance: 2.5km

Walking: 30 min

Type: Garden

Mount Tabor Park

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Park

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Distance: 4km

Walking: 50 min