This tranquil oasis, located in the heart of downtown Portland, is the most authentic Chinese garden outside of China and is the perfect break from the city for visitors of all ages. Contained within a full city block are winding paths, a lake, an open pavilion and hundreds of rocks and plant species native to China. The garden also contains a Teahouse, which serves light snacks in addition to a wide variety of teas.Parking and public transportation at Lan Su Chinese GardenLan Su Chinese Garden is easily accessible by car. There is no dedicated parking lot, but metered street parking is available and there are several parking lots located within a few minutes of the garden. By public transportation, take the Old Town Chinatown stop on the Blue and Red MAX lines or the 1, 4, 5, 8, 10, 16, 33, 40 or 77 bus.Best and worst time to go to Lan Su Chinese GardenLan Su Chinese Garden changes constantly as different plants come into season. The garden is most vibrant (and crowded) in the spring and summer, but is beautiful year round. The garden is lovely on a rainy day. You can enjoy a warm tea while listening to the rain drip off the tiles and avoid the biggest crowds.Admission to Lan Su Chinese GardenChildren 5 and under are free. Adults are around $10. The garden offers a senior and student discount as well as a family pass option.Must see/do at Lan Su Chinese GardenLan Su Chinese Garden is small enough that you can take it all in, no matter how much time you have. Try to go on one of the free guided tours to get a better feel of the space. Be sure to visit the tea house for a break, an incredible selection of tea and some reasonably-priced snacks.Other places to visit near Lan Su Chinese GardenTwo other famous Portland landmarks are within walking distance – Voodoo Doughnuts and Powell's City of Books. Lan Su Chinese Garden is also only a few blocks from Waterfront Park, where you can sun bathe, watch the bikers go by and admire Portland's many bridges.Insider tip for visitors to Lan Su Chinese GardenLan Su Chinese Garden is great for kids. Ask for a copy of the Family Guide at the front entrance, which allows children to tour the garden scavenger-hunt style. If you are lucky enough to come during the Chinese New Year, be sure to come by the garden to witness lanterns, dancing and other festivities. Prior to the New Year, the garden usually offers a week of free admission with the donation of non-perishable food.Author's bio: Ali Wilkinson is a mom to three young children and loves to explore Portland with them. She is the founder of a Portland events website aimed at families, and writes about parenting on her blog run knit love.