The Grotto
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Amazing and beautiful!! You do not need to be Catholic to go and enjoy the beauty and the art here. Go for a day visit! The folks who work here are kind and the place is just BEAUTIFUL!!
If you are looking for a place to escape from your busy life and find some peace. Whether if you are religious or not, this place will give you the peacefulness you need. I highly recommend anyone to visit this sanctuary. The grounds are well maintained and is very green and lush.
Nice peaceful place. I only had 5 minutes there so I can't say more. But it it a nice and interesting place to visit, especially if you happen to be of the Catholic faith.
A place of peace,prayer and natural beauty place for all religions every one is welcome here
It was very beautiful here, and I could feel the presence of God. I attended the 12pm mass which was held in the outside. The mass was very beautiful with a clear sound system, and great singers. The views were breathtaking. I did not make it to the upper gardens because I didn't want to spend the 11$ for the ticket. However, I didn't feel like I missed out on too much. The lower plaza was still very beautiful.
Peace solace always! Love this place and best time to visit in Fall. Hopefully can visit during Christmas to see the lights
The Grotto was one of our first stops when visiting Oregon, and it set such a beautiful tone for the rest of our trip. This sanctuary is truly a place of peace. I am Roman Catholic and felt deeply moved here, but what surprised me most was how much it touched my boyfriend, who is usually more skeptical--he described finding a sense of peace he couldn't quite put into words. There's so much to explore: a religious gift shop, a meditation room, peaceful gardens on two levels of the mountain, and both indoor and outdoor altars where you can even attend Mass. I especially loved discovering the hidden religious statues tucked away around the sanctuary--it felt like a spiritual treasure hunt. Whether you're visiting for faith, reflection, or simply to take in the serene beauty, The Grotto is an absolute must-see when in Portland.
Built in the early 1900s, you either KNOW about The Grotto or you don't! It's just this unique sanctuary, built again a cliffside, in Portland, OR. If you've never been there, I know it sounds weird, but it is a truly beautiful and peaceful place to pray and enjoy nature. While it's Catholic based, anyone can go, explore and attend one if their many masses/celebrations.
This review is based off our visit during the Christmas lights. It was beautiful! Lights everywhere. They had people singing and had mass with them performing. I got the very last of it. They had an area to buy donuts and hot coco. It was $3 a donut and $4.50 for the hot drink. There was a cute little gift shop at the end. We left with some rosary's. I cannot wait to see what this place looks like during the day! Tickets were about $17 online. As for parking, they guided us to the parking lot.
I didn't do the paid garden area, but seeing the grotto part was really beautiful. Parking on a Thursday was easy.
You feel at peace as soon as you step in! It's breathtaking You walk in and you just feel it! There is really no words to express this you have to come and experience it yourself! I was blessed enough to have gotten some necklace's from the gift show and had a priest Bless them
Quite a scenic place and the natural features are pretty cool. Especially nice if you're catholic.
My visit to The Grotto was a serene and literally a spiritual experience. The grounds are expansive and a delight to explore. Visiting at the church was comforting and heartfelt , I felt privileged to of signed the guest book .They have a beautiful outdoor shrine and is the perfect setting to light a candle for a loved one . Parking was convenient and complimentary. It's nestled within the tall trees and has gorgeous landscaping. I'm looking forward to a return visit during the holidays to see it fully lit up and in its full spiritual glory.
5 days ago
My Grandma and I came here after my Grandpa passed. She found some respite and deep connection walking through the gardens. It's definitely a special place- we lit a candle in his honor. We have come during the Christmas lights too and that's pretty special. read more
I really wish I had more time here. This was one of the very last places to visited before I had to fly home. I got here late about 30mins before closing so I only walked around for a little. It's so Beautiful, peaceful, & calm here. The Grotto is a 62-acres sanctuary founded in 1924. There are so many beautifully carved statues. All the statues are made from marble, granite, bronze, wood, polyester resin and fiberglass. On their webpage, The Grotto's Vision is To forever be a place where the human spirit can seek peace and consolation. The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother embraces and supports people of all cultures and all faiths who seek a place of prayer and meditation; The Grotto values the dignity of everyone. I'll definitely come back here the next time I'm in town so I can spend a bit more time exploring. There's a decent sized parking lot. It was empty as I got here close to closing but I'm sure it gets very busy here. read more
1 month ago
The place is really beautiful and peaceful. Its a nice couple hours admiring the surrounding and beautiful statues. You dont need to be religious to enjoy and respect how breathtaking this are is. read more
22 days ago
If you are looking for a place to escape from your busy life and find some peace. Whether if you are religious or not, this place will give you the peacefulness you need. I highly recommend anyone to visit this sanctuary. The grounds are well maintained and is very green and lush. read more
28 days ago
A place of peace,prayer and natural beauty place for all religions every one is welcome here read more
1 month ago
It was very beautiful here, and I could feel the presence of God. I attended the 12pm mass which was held in the outside. The mass was very beautiful with a clear sound system, and great singers. The views were breathtaking. I did not make it to the upper gardens because I didn't want to spend the 11$ for the ticket. However, I didn't feel like I missed out on too much. The lower plaza was still very beautiful. read more
The Grotto was one of our first stops when visiting Oregon, and it set such a beautiful tone for the rest of our trip. This sanctuary is truly a place of peace. I am Roman Catholic and felt deeply moved here, but what surprised me most was how much it touched my boyfriend, who is usually more skeptical--he described finding a sense of peace he couldn't quite put into words. There's so much to explore: a religious gift shop, a meditation room, peaceful gardens on two levels of the mountain, and both indoor and outdoor altars where you can even attend Mass. I especially loved discovering the hidden religious statues tucked away around the sanctuary--it felt like a spiritual treasure hunt. Whether you're visiting for faith, reflection, or simply to take in the serene beauty, The Grotto is an absolute must-see when in Portland. read more
Built in the early 1900s, you either KNOW about The Grotto or you don't! It's just this unique sanctuary, built again a cliffside, in Portland, OR. If you've never been there, I know it sounds weird, but it is a truly beautiful and peaceful place to pray and enjoy nature. While it's Catholic based, anyone can go, explore and attend one if their many masses/celebrations. read more
7 months ago
This review is based off our visit during the Christmas lights. It was beautiful! Lights everywhere. They had people singing and had mass with them performing. I got the very last of it. They had an area to buy donuts and hot coco. It was $3 a donut and $4.50 for the hot drink. There was a cute little gift shop at the end. We left with some rosary's. I cannot wait to see what this place looks like during the day! Tickets were about $17 online. As for parking, they guided us to the parking lot. read more
You feel at peace as soon as you step in! It's breathtaking You walk in and you just feel it! There is really no words to express this you have to come and experience it yourself! I was blessed enough to have gotten some necklace's from the gift show and had a priest Bless them read more
5 months ago
Quite a scenic place and the natural features are pretty cool. Especially nice if you're catholic. read more
5 months ago
My visit to The Grotto was a serene and literally a spiritual experience. The grounds are expansive and a delight to explore. Visiting at the church was comforting and heartfelt , I felt privileged to of signed the guest book .They have a beautiful outdoor shrine and is the perfect setting to light a candle for a loved one . Parking was convenient and complimentary. It's nestled within the tall trees and has gorgeous landscaping. I'm looking forward to a return visit during the holidays to see it fully lit up and in its full spiritual glory. read more
The Grotto is such a peaceful place to visit. This was the first place my cousin and I visited when we arrived in Portland. It was a very cold day but the walk around the grotto made it worth it. They started to add the Christmas lights when we visited. The lower part of the Grotto is free. However, there is an admission fee to go to the upper garden. If you're debating if you should go, you must! Such a beautiful place. read more
When you want to just get away from all the hustle and bustle of a city and find peace, solace place to meditate... the grotto was this enchanted and peaceful place you can come to pray, meditate, reflect and attend a mass. Love it here. You have to visit the upper garden even though it will cost but it's going to a good cause. I love the shrines area, please bring flowers for offering too as they will allow them. I had been wanting to visit this place since the first day I've visited Portland, now I'm glad I finally did because it won't be my last. read more
What a fantastic time to see these lights and hear groups singing. I went, luckily, on a dry night and to celebrate the 100 years of the Grotto. The lower portion is a short walk through the grounds, and the upper portion wasn't open for the light event. The replica of the Pieta was adorned with lit candles and it was such a calming presence. There is a decent sized parking lot on site, but I opted to park along the road leading to the grounds since it was a busy night (both options are free). Small admission fee, on-site gift shop and they also host church service on the grounds. read more
The Grotto is a place where I feel all religions are welcome and feel everyone, in general, should be welcomed here. It's primarily a place for Catholics and Christians, but the serenity of being here and the history of these sacred grounds in itself to me is worth a visit for everyone. You can think differently, but it's simply my own opinion regarding this place. I know everyone can get all sensitive about our differences now-a-days, but I feel I said what needed to be said. I've been here plenty of times to know that this is a sanctuary of peace, regardless of your religion. They're usually open everyday from 9am-6:30pm, but expect hours to be adjusted during the holidays. The Lower Grounds are free to stroll. Walk along the Stations of the Cross from the parking lot, or grab some hot chocolate at the gift shop. Plenty of greenery and seats around to sit and reflect. Or attend services at the chapel. During the summer, mass can be held outdoors in the grotto itself so check their website for times. Normally services would primarily be in the chapel. It all just depends on good 'ol Portland weather. The Upper Garden, however, is where the other half of the attractions are. With an admission fee for entry ($9.95 Adult / $8.95 Seniors / $4.95 Kids), you would take an elevator ride up to the top and start exploring from there. If you begin at the Meditation Chapel, you'll get a excellent view of Mt. St. Helens and PDX airport. Or simply stay quiet and pray. Follow the trail map and you'll get see tall redwoods, an array of statues, international shrines, various colorful plants, and a couple of ponds. So do wear some comfortable walking shoes. With this being one of them most sacred spots in Portland, people usually plan pilgrimages here. Some do short retreats, and some enjoy doing a quick field trip with out-of-town guests. You can easily spend about an hour or two here, or take your time and experience everything in about 2-3 hours. I've been here quite a few times, and have spent at least 90 minutes each time. If you plan to visit, I hope you feel just as refreshed as I do when being here. GBY! read more
4 months ago
How does The Grotto not have more reviews? I'm a bit surprised, but then again, we found kind of found it by just driving by and curiously decided to poke around. And the Garden at the top, well worth the $10 admission fee. With open limited parking spots, the Grotto is a church first and an amazing garden hidden up on top of the cliff over looking the church. And the walk around the garden, spectacular. It's actually not something I can put into words, you'll really just need to go look. read more
2 years ago
My husband and I decided to go to the upper level of The Grotto as he hasn't been up there. For $10 you take the elevator up and walk and tour the beautiful gardens and grounds. It was a cool December day and we ventured our way through the gorgeous trails, viewpoints, taking in the peace and beauty that The Grotto offers. As we were walking back to our car, it began to rain - divine timing!! It's hard to believe this beauty of nature is in the heart of NE Portland. read more
5 months ago
1 year ago
8 months ago
Beautiful space for meditation and prayer (if that is your practice). We went Boxing Day, and had we known about the lights, we might have timed our visit differently. Despite the cold weather, we managed to see most of the shrines, especially those to Mary from around the world. I highly recommend taking some time out of a busy season to reflect and simply be, there are few enough spaces provided for such moments in our secular and materialistic society. read more
2 years ago
The Grotto is a 62-acre sanctuary in Portland, Oregon, founded in 1924 by Servite Fr. Ambrose Mayer. This cliffside Catholic sanctuary is renowned for its Pieta sculpture nestled in a grotto and its tranquil botanical gardens. Officially named the National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother, The Grotto is an outdoor altar and sanctuary located in Portland's Madison South district. The sanctuary, built in 1924, spans 62 acres, situated at both the base and the top of a 110-foot cliff. Religious grottoes, like this one, are often used as shrines to house statues of saints, particularly the Virgin Mary, in outdoor settings. Many Roman Catholics visit grottoes where significant apparitions, such as those witnessed by Bernadette Soubirous at Lourdes, are believed to have occurred. Numerous garden shrines are inspired by these holy sites. Visiting the lower level of The Grotto is free of charge, while admission to the Upper Gardens is available until 7:30 p.m. (though the time may vary). The Grotto is just 4 miles from Portland Airport (PDX), making it a convenient stop before your arrival or departure. Plan to spend about two hours exploring the sanctuary. There is also a small gift shop on the lower level for visitors. read more
1 year ago
Wow, what a find!! I thought the Japanese Tea Garden was open everyday, but it is closed on Tuesdays (the day we planned to go). Needed another option and stumbled across this on Google Maps. So glad! This is a catholic garden that in meticulously maintained and absolutely gorgeous! I can't believe I had never heard of it. Such a peaceful experience and a great value. Only 15 mins from our hotel downtown. read more
Beautiful outdoor church with a history! Come with your friends and family. Check out their gardens and statues. We came at a time where the flowers were blooming. Church was in service indoor. Outdoor area was immense with carvings into the wall. A must see if you are in the area. They sell holy water, candles for prayers and much more! read more
I visited The Grotto while vacationing in Portland, Oregon. It is a botanical garden, place of meditation, and relaxing the mind in the midst of God and nature. This is such a peaceful setting with two levels: free a lower level with trails, statues of religious figures and beautiful trees and native shrubs plus an upper level experience of mature evergreen acreage, shrines, statues, wood carvings, meditation chapel, trails, basalt stone structures as part of Rocky Butte (dormant volcano) and views of Mount St. Helens and the Columbia River on a clear day for a nominal fee. There are Masses delivered in St. Mary's chapel. There is an enormous space for outdoor activities with plenty of seating. There is a gift shop and an interpretation center, which provides information about the site and the Servite friars and their mission plus services from their religious community. If you are looking for a slow pace, relaxing place for prayer, meditation and immersion with nature the Grotto is a jewel within the city of Portland, Oregon. read more
What an amazingly beautiful and serene place. We arriving on a Saturday at 11am. Ample parking. We slowly strolled in. The moment you set foot on the grounds, you already want to slow down to enjoy the richness of the lush greenery as you walk forth. We opted for the lower area, the Grotto and the Chapel. There's no charge. The walk to the Grotto was magnificent. Enormously tall trees with very manicured smaller trees and bushes. There's a paved path that opens up to the amphitheater like area and the Grotto. It's amazing, it's beautiful, it's peaceful. We were lucky enough to be there when you had a Saturday mass. We were able to join the mass in the chapel. Such a blessing. What a wonderful afternoon spent. read more
3 years ago
Such a beautiful, breathtaking, and peaceful place!!! There's an overwhelming feeling of love, peace, and God's presence. As you approach The Grotto, there is a gift shop to the left. That's where you will purchase your coin for entrance. They sell candles there for you to light at the altar if you choose. Don't forget to stop by the meditation glass chapel. There you'll find an amazing view of Portland and Michel Angelo's replica of Pieta! read more
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8840 NE Skidmore St
Portland, OR 97220
Northeast Portland, Madison - South
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(503) 254-7371
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http://www.thegrotto.org
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The Grotto - gardens - Updated August 2026
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