Memorials

Japanese American Historical Plaza

In downtown Portland’s Waterfront Park, the 13 stone markers in the Japanese American Historical Plaza commemorate the history of the people who were deported to inland internment camps during World War II. The stones are engraved with short poems, and from March-April, 100 cherry trees bloom around the award-winning monument, which was designed by Portland landscape architect Robert Murase. Guided tours are offered by the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center, 503.224.1458.

Hours: 5 a.m.-midnight.

Admission: Free.

Waterfront Park
Northwest Naito Parkway at Couch Street

Oregon Holocaust Memorial

The contemplative and educational Oregon Holocaust Memorial is set gracefully into a meadow in Portland's beautiful Washington Park. The Oregon Holocaust Resource Center maintains the memorial and offers docent-led tours by request.

Hours: 5 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

Admission: Free

Washington Park
Southwest Washington Way and Wright Avenue
503.245.2733 or 888.515.6472
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Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial

The somber, understated Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial wraps a wheelchair-accessible spiral path inside a meticulously landscaped bowl of greenery. Along the path, visitors are reminded of the Oregonians who sacrificed their lives and safety in the war and, at the trail’s end, a curved, black granite wall outlines three years of the conflict, contrasted by local events that happened simultaneously.

Hours: 5 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

Admission: Free.

Washington Park
4000 S.W. Canyon Road (near MAX station and World Forestry Center)