fun cities to visit in oregon

50 Fun Things To Do & Best Places To Visit In Oregon

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: February 1, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

There’s a lot to love about Oregon.

From its breathtaking natural scenery to its quirky, avant-garde culture, there’s a little something for every type of traveler.

Do you like testing your limits on grueling ski slopes and back-breaking mountain climbs?

Do you prefer relaxing in hot springs or fishing on the docks of quiet wooden cottages?

Would you enjoy a stroll through renowned art museums?

There are many amazing things to do in Oregon.

Here are just a few suggestions as you plan your vacation.

Table of Contents

1. Portland Japanese Garden

Randall Runtsch / Shutterstock

If you’ve always dreamed of sipping sake under the softly-falling petals of a cherry blossom tree, the Portland Japanese Garden can turn these visions into reality.

You won’t even have to leave Oregon to enjoy them!

Despite the name, the Portland Japanese Garden is actually a series of gardens.

Some of them have ponds and streams filled with koi fish; others have ferns, flowers, stones, shrubs and water wheels like a real zen garden.

The architecture is inspired by temples and traditional Minka houses.

Lanterns light the walking paths.

If you like cultural activities, there are fun events hosted at the Portland Japanese Garden, too.

From tea ceremonies to woodblock exhibitions, you can fully embrace the art, music, nature and folklore of Japan.

Consider putting the Portland Japanese Garden on your shortlist of tourist attractions in Oregon.

It’s one of the most fun places to visit in the entire state, especially if you’re a dedicated student of eastern culture.

Address:  611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205, United States

2. Thor’s Well

Jakub Skyta Photography / Shutterstock

You’ve never seen a sinkhole like this one.

With ferocious power, Thor’s Well is so big and so mighty that it regularly sweeps visitors out to sea.

They get too close, and the God of Thunder lashes out at them with gut-churning, rock-crushing force.

What is Thor’s Well?

Though it has many nicknames, including “the drainpipe of the Pacific,” it doesn’t actually suck away the ocean.

In simple terms, it’s just a deep hole in the middle of a rocky outcropping.

The waves slam into the rocks; the water goes flying in every direction; the hole appears to act like a drain, emptying the area until the next wave.

People come from all over to photograph Thor’s Well.

It’s proof of nature’s fury in action, and it’s easily one of the coolest places in Oregon.

Just don’t get too close!

Address: Highway 101, Yachats, OR 97498, United States

3. Oregon Coast Aquarium

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As a coastal state, Oregon has its fair share of docks, ports, bays, aquatic centers and marine life exhibitions.

However, none of them can hold a handle to the Oregon Coast Aquarium .

Filled with literal tons of water, the Oregon Coast Aquarium showcases everything from sharks to seabirds.

There are underwater passageways where you can stroll across the ocean floor, and there are tide pools where you touch starfish or get a kiss from a sea otter.

As an educational site, there are fun learning experiences to be had at the aquarium as well.

You can sign up for a number of classes, lectures, workshops and other special events.

They’re divided between kids and adults, so everyone will have something new to try or explore.

If you’re thinking about vacation ideas along the coast, consider the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

It’s one of the best places in the state for families who aren’t afraid to get splashed a little!

Address:  2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd, Newport, OR 97365, United States

4. Rimsky-Korsakoffee House

Marie / flickr

With dim lights, crammed tables and decorations named after dead people, the Rimsky-Korsakoffee House is one of the quirkiest places to visit in Oregon.

You might even say that it’s to die for.

There are many bizarre things in Rimsky’s, including gruesome knick-knacks on the shelves and tables that randomly rotate or vibrate.

According to legend, the house itself is haunted, and the owners certainly play up the superstitions with spooky decor and mournful music.

The menu is also a swerve.

While they serve the usual coffees and cakes, they also experiment with freshly-made, limited-quantity desserts that incorporate all kinds of spices, sauces and toppings.

They only accept cash. They don’t post their specials online.

When they run out of something, that’s it; there’s no more.

If you want to experience the Rimsky-Korsakoffee House, you’ll need to go there in person, and you’ll need to be prepared for everything.

Don’t expect it to be like any other coffee shop.

This is a creative, boundary-pushing business that lives up to its reputation.

Address:  707 SE 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97214, United States

5. Terwilliger Hot Springs

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Located about a quarter-mile into the wilderness, the Terwilliger Hot Springs can offer a relaxing soak after a long, sweaty hike.

They’re one of the best places to visit in Oregon, especially if you’re a fan of letting things air out.

Clothing is optional here!

Six pools are separated by rock arrangements along the river.

Their temperatures range from 85°F – 112°F, so their heat will really sink into your bones and loosen up your muscles.

The fresh air from the mountains is also a plus; it’s the deep, cleaning kind of oxygen that you can only enjoy when you’re miles from civilization.

If you’re ready to trade your bath bombs for the real thing, consider a soak in the Terwilliger Hot Springs.

Not only are they one of the most beautiful places in Oregon, but they can provide some much-needed R&R during a busy vacation.

Address: Hwy 19, About 1 mile S of Cougar Dam, Blue River, OR 97413, United States

6. National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

Rick Obst / flickr

You can’t talk about Oregon without mentioning the Oregon Trail.

More than 300,000 settlers took a journey across its dusty roads and rivers, and many of them perished along the way.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center honors their lives and memories.

It isn’t just a museum filled with exhibits; it brings the past to life with everything from workshops to living history demonstrations.

Visitors can watch films, listen to guest speakers, examine wagon replicas and look at carefully preserved artifacts from the 1800s.

If they want to stretch their legs, they can also go outside and hike on several nature trails with beautiful mountain views.

Does this sound like something that you and your family would like?

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is one of the finest Oregon attractions for history buffs, so if you’re fascinated by wagons, bonnets and axes, book your ticket today.

Address:  22267 OR-86, Baker City, OR 97814, United States

7. Crater Lake National Park

Kris Wiktor / Shutterstock

As the only national park in Oregon, Crater Lake National Park draws visitors from all over the northwestern United States.

They travel for miles to see its hills, mountains, forests, springs, streams, and waterfalls.

Its biggest draw is Crater Lake.

Thousands of years ago, a volcano erupted so spectacularly that it formed a crater plunging 2,000 feet into the earth; now that crater is filled with water, and it’s one of the deepest lakes in the world.

It’s become a hot spot for summertime activities like swimming, fishing, camping and boating.

Sightseeing is also popular at the park.

Hikers can enjoy trails and rock pillars; families can frolic among the flowers in gardens and secluded coves.

Are you traveling to Oregon in the winter?

You’ll miss the crackling campfires, but you can still enjoy skiing, sledding, snowshoeing and other chilly pursuits.

The lake is especially beautiful when its deep blue waters contrast against the pure white snow.

Consider a trip to Crater Lake National Park if you’re looking for the best things to do in Oregon.

It’s one of the prettiest places in the state, and it’s a national treasure for a reason!

Address:  Oregon, United States

8. Cherryfest

Cherryfest NW

Are you headed to Oregon in the summertime?

Do you love to sink your teeth into fresh red cherries?

You might like Cherryfest , a multi-day festival that takes place every June or July in Salem, Oregon.

The city of Salem is also known as “Cherry City” because of its natural abundance of cherry trees.

It’s hosted a variety of fairs and festivals dedicated to the fruit, but Cherryfest is the most enduring.

It’s been around since the days of the pioneers.

What are some fun things to do at Cherryfest?

If you like music, there are always bands giving outdoor performances.

If you’re there for the food and drink, you’ll have your pick of meats, breads, cheeses, pies and liquors.

Not everything is cherry-themed, but most of it is. That’s the glory of Cherryfest.

If you’re a cherry lover looking for fun things to do in Oregon, clear a weekend this summer and have a blast!

9. Crux Fermentation Project

Joshua Rainey Photography / Shutterstock

The Crux Fermentation Project is a craft brewery located in Bend, Oregon .

Like its name suggests, it’s an experimental kind of place, so you won’t find the usual brewing techniques here.

Instead, they age their beers in wooden barrels and cultivate wild yeast strands through open fermentation.

They have almost two dozen taps, so there’s always something new to try.

When you visit, you can take a tour, hit the bar, try samples in the tasting room or enjoy a frosty pint on the deck patio.

If you discover a brew that you really like, you can buy a bottle of your new favorite from the gift shop.

You don’t have to be a connoisseur to enjoy the Crux Fermentation Project.

As long as you can appreciate a tasty beer, it’s a must-see destination.

Address:  50 SW Division St, Bend, OR 97702, United States

10. John Day Fossil Beds

Nadia Yong / Shutterstock

Covering almost 14,000 acres, the John Day Fossil Beds are a staggering example of desert beauty.

There are red cliffs and dry, cracked canyons; there are colorful badlands and prickly desert shrubs that can survive anything.

The fossil beds contain the last remnants of plants and animals that lived in Oregon millions of years ago.

They’re one of the major points of interest in the area, and they attract thousands of visitors each year.

There are other things to do at the John Day Fossil Beds, however, so don’t feel like you have to squint at the dirt all day.

If you like working up a sweat, you can hit the hiking trails; if you prefer your fun to be a little more air-conditioned, you can explore the museum, theater, bookstore and gift shop.

The John Day Fossil Beds are considered a U.S. National Monument.

They’re a must-do for history buffs, nature lovers, fossil finders and anyone else who enjoys amazing natural wonders, so get on the phone and start planning your trip.

You won’t want to miss a top attraction like this.

Address:  32651 OR-19, Kimberly, OR 97848, United States

Looking for more thrills? Why not check out some of the things to do in Eugene, Oregon ?

11. Powell’s Books

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Covering an entire city block, Powell’s Books is a gargantuan collection of everything from comic books to rare first editions.

It has more than 3,000 sections in its flagship store, and there are other stores scattered around the city of Portland, too.

Bibliophiles will have a field day at Powell’s Books.

Not only does it offer all of the comfy chairs and coffee bars that you’d expect from a modern bookstore, but it also hosts things like guided tours, writing workshops and children’s storybook time.

This is in addition to the thousands and thousands of books that cover every surface of dozens of rooms.

If you can’t find a specific title in the store, they offer even more through their website.

They move countless new, used, rare and out-of-print books every year.

If you’re looking to add to your bookshelf, you won’t want to miss Powell’s Books.

Wandering its maze of hallways is one of the top things to do in Oregon!

Address (Flagship Store): 1005 W Burnside St., Portland, OR 97209, United States

12. Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort

Written In Silver Visuals / Shutterstock

Anyone can stay in a resort.

How many people can say that they stayed in a treesort?

The Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort is unlike any other lodging that you’ve experienced.

The rooms are made completely out of wood, and they’re nestled in treetops between 10 – 40 feet off the ground.

Individual cabin names include the “Peacock Perch” and the “Treezebo.”

Once you’ve enjoyed a refreshing night in the clouds, you can climb back down to Earth and take advantage of the resort’s many events and classes.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s hiking, ziplining and horseback riding.

For families, there’s tie-dyeing and mosaic painting.

You can also take a short drive to nearby stores for food, firewood, souvenirs and camping supplies.

Put yourself on top of the world with the Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort.

It’s different from other Oregon attractions, but different can be a lot of fun!

Address:  300 Page Creek Rd, Cave Junction, OR 97523, United States

13. Mount Hood

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There are dozens of mountain ranges in Oregon, but Mount Hood is one of the best.

In the winter, you can enjoy just about every snow sport under the sun, including skiing, sledding and snowboarding.

In the summer, after all of the icicles have melted from the trees, the forests become gorgeous places for hiking and camping.

Do you prefer relaxation to athleticism? Mount Hood still has you covered.

The main resort is Mount Hood Meadows, a home-away-from-home that offers all of the amenities that you could need, but there are other, more rustic lodgings available as well.

You can pamper yourself with a luxurious suite or become a cowboy in a rustic cabin.

No matter what kind of vacation that you’re hoping to have, Mount Hood is one of the best places to see in Oregon.

It might even be one of the most beautiful places in the US all together.

If you’re wondering what to see in the northwest, this is it!

14. Sea Lion Caves

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Home to hundreds of sea lions, the Sea Lion Caves are a series of gigantic underground caverns where these playful critters come to frolic.

Visitors have to descend stairs and take an elevator just to reach them.

When you get there, however, you’ll enjoy a new kind of site seeing.

The stone walls are covered in moss and lichens, and the underground streams are always rushing fast.

The sea lions tend to gather on the rocks as they caper, chatter and socialize.

When you’ve filled up your camera roll, you can step outside to the whale-watching deck and see if you can spot any orcas on the horizon.

There are also learning stations if you want to know more about marine life, and a gift shop is nearby for souvenirs.

Sea lions are some of the coolest marine animals that you’ll ever see, and with the Sea Lion Caves, they’re more accessible than ever.

Address:  91560 US-101, Florence, OR 97439, United States

15. North Mississippi Avenue

Located in Portland, this avenue is basically a neighborhood in its own right.

It’s known for its trendy, high-energy atmosphere, and its streets are always alive with culture and commerce.

The buildings have been painted with every color of the rainbow.

The businesses are an eclectic mix of everything from bakeries and bubble tea shops to jewelry stores and pottery barns.

Food carts are always roaming, and live music can be heard from bars, cafes and studios.

Art lovers will find a lot to appreciate on the avenue as well.

It hosts a number of independent galleries, and it sees a lot of up-and-coming creators.

It’s a must-see destination if you like independent art.

Are you traveling to Portland and wondering about the best things to do in Oregon this weekend?

Stop by North Mississippi Avenue.

Take advantage of your proximity to one of the most interesting places in the state!

16. Wildlife Safari

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With the fields and savannas of Wildlife Safari , you can travel to Africa without ever leaving Oregon.

It’s home to dozens of species, including lions, cheetahs, elephants, hippos and giraffes, and they roam freely across 600 acres of protected land.

You can drive along a trail to see them in action, or you can stop at the petting zoo to actually handle some of the smaller, gentler creatures.

A nice thing about Wildlife Safari is that it isn’t exploitative.

It’s contributed to a lot of conservation efforts, and it’s been praised by animal rights activists for its open, natural habitat.

It considered one of the top organizations of its kind in the state.

For some guilt-free fun with African animals, take a drive through Wildlife Safari.

You’ll send your wheels churning through one of the best destinations in Oregon, and you’ll be helping a charitable organization at the same time.

Address:  1790 Safari Rd, Winston, OR 97496, United States

17. Mount Jefferson

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Mount Jefferson isn’t for the faint of heart.

As the second-highest mountain in Oregon, it has steep cliffs, hard summits, low levels of oxygen and a remote setting that scares off many potential visitors.

It also has a death toll: At least one person dies while attempting a climb each year.

If you’re an experienced outdoorsman, however, you might enjoy the challenge presented by Mount Jefferson.

Your first test will be getting there.

It’s so secluded that it’s only accessible by foot or horseback, and there’s a distinct lack of trails on certain areas of the mountain.

Of course, if you can hack it, you’ll be treated to some of the best landscapes in the state of Oregon.

The views on Mount Jefferson have to be seen to be believed.

Not only will they put you on top of the world, but they’re also far enough from the big cities that they’re almost completely free from lights and pollution.

Are you the type of adrenaline junkie who sees a death-defying mountain climb as a fun excursion?

If so, Mount Jefferson is waiting.

18. Wanderlust Tours

Wanderlust Tours

If you’re wondering what to do in Oregon but don’t have any firm plans yet, consider booking a trip with Wanderlust Tours .

Rain or shine, they can show you the best parts of the Bend region, including lakes, forests, rivers, caverns and more.

Would you like to swim in stunning blue waters or ski down a snow-topped mountain?

Have you always dreamed of white water rafting or exploring an underground lava tube?

Do you get a thrill out of camping underneath the stars?

Wanderlust Tours can provide all of these experiences and more.

They’ll take you to all of the best Oregon vacation spots, and they’re open all year long, so you don’t even have to worry about seasonal closings.

Whenever you’re headed to the area, they can be ready and waiting for you.

You just have to pick up the phone and call!

Address:  61535 S Hwy 97 #13, Bend, OR 97702, United States

19. Willamette Valley

Steven Madow / Shutterstock

You don’t have to go to Napa Valley for amazing wine.

While the vineyards of Oregon might not be as famous as their California counterparts, they’re still lush and beautiful, and they can offer a sweet afternoon with a good drink and good company in a natural setting.

Willamette Valley is the best example of a wine country in Oregon.

It has sprawling vineyards in every direction, and it’s dotted with quaint little shops and cottages to give the full, picturesque look.

Local activities include everything from wine tastings to horseback riding across the fields.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Oregon, consider a trip to Willamette Valley.

Once you step on the thick green grass of the countryside and take a deep breath that smells like grapes, you’ll realize that you made the right decision in going there.

20. Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks

Covering thousands of acres in multiple states, the Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks is a series of parks and nature reserves that celebrate the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Some of the trails were actually pounded by Lewis and Clark’s boots; others were just designated as likely areas of travel for the duo as they made their way west.

These are the official parks on the Oregon side of the border:

– Ecola State Park – Fort Stevens State Park – Sunset Beach State Recreation Site

These are the parks on the Washington side that are just a few hours away if you feel like taking a drive:

– Cape Disappointment State Park – Fort Columbia State Park

If you’re looking for historic places to see in the northwestern United States, the Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks should keep you occupied for a while.

Address:  92343 Fort Clatsop Rd, Astoria, OR 97103, United States

Making a trip to Astoria soon? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Astoria, Oregon before you go?

21. Bridgeport Village

ARTYOORAN / Shutterstock

Shop ’til you drop at Bridgeport Village .

It’s an upscale, open-air shopping mall, so you’ll need a little money to burn, but it’s worth the cost for the experience alone.

The complex is lined with shops, cafes, bookstores, bakeries and boutiques.

Fairy lights are draped over the rooftops.

Music can always be heard from windows and patio decks, and vendors often line the main square to hand out balloons, coupons, perfume samples and ice cream cones.

It’s okay if your budget doesn’t quite meet their standards.

When a complex is this nice, even window shopping is fun!

Bridgeport Village isn’t like the harshly-lit malls of your hometown.

It’s a warm, friendly place, and it’s one of the top vacation ideas for people traveling to Tigard.

If you’ll be visiting the area, don’t miss the opportunity to admire Bridgeport Village.

Address:  7455 SW Bridgeport Rd, Tigard, OR 97224, United States

22. Kam Wah Chung and Company Museum

Max Rae / flickr

Originally built as a trading post in the late 1800s, the Kam Wah Chung and Company Museum was forgotten for decades after the death of its owner.

When it was rediscovered, it had become an untouched time capsule of early Chinese-American life, so the decision was made to turn it into a museum.

Today, you can find all sorts of delights and oddities on the shelves.

There are knick-knacks ranging from toys to jewelry boxes; there are ancient medicine bottles mixed with spice jars and dried herbs.

Mysterious symbols are stamped on letters. Everything is decorated with vintage fabrics and furniture pieces from the 1800s.

From Japanese gardens to Chinese museums, the state of Oregon can be a real melting pot of different cultures.

If you’re wondering how to plan a trip and see them all, start with a visit to the Kam Wah Chung and Company Museum.

Address:  125 NW Canton St, John Day, OR 97845, United States

23. Cannon Beach

Hrach Hovhannisyan / Shutterstock

You’ve already seen Cannon Beach .

Even if you’ve never traveled to Oregon before, you’ve seen its misty, rocky shores in movies like Twilight, Point Break and The Goonies.

The beach offers all of the usual fun, including swimming and snorkeling.

Annual sandcastle competitions are held every year, and you can see fireworks burst over the water on the Fourth of July.

If you want to venture away from the surf, you’ll find all kinds of shops, resorts, restaurants, boutiques and movie theaters within the city.

Cannon Beach has a very lively atmosphere that makes it a must do for tourists.

Unleash your inner vampire with a trip to Cannon Beach.

It’s a nice place, especially if you’re a movie buff, and who knows when you’ll get the chance to breathe the same air as Robert Pattinson again?

Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110, United States

24. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Checubus / Shutterstock

The best museums don’t even feel like museums, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is so much fun that your kids won’t even realize that they’re getting an educational experience.

For starters, there are more than 200 exhibits dedicated to everything from dinosaurs to ocean waves.

Hands-on laboratories are always cooking up new science experiments.

A planetarium will take you to the stars, and a movie theater will let you enjoy documentaries about sharks, submarines, butterflies, hurricanes and everything in between.

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is one of the top vacation destinations in the state, especially when you’re traveling with kids.

It offers cool things to do for visitors of all ages, so no one will be bored.

Whether you’re carrying a toddler or prodding along with a teenager, it’s a weekend trip that will keep everyone entertained.

Address:  1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214, United States

25. Dee Wright Observatory

Eponaleah / Shutterstock

Built on the remains of an old wagon trail, the Dee Wright Observatory is one of the most unique structures in Oregon.

It’s an observational point that offers stunning views of the nearby mountains, but it isn’t made of the usual brick or concrete.

It’s made of lava stones.

That’s right: The entire observatory is built on a foundation of basaltic lava.

You’ll need to pick your way through huge, jagged rocks just to reach the summit.

For this reason, the area is sometimes called a “lava field.”

You won’t be in any danger, of course, since the lava melted and hardened into stone more than a thousand years ago.

But if you’re looking for fun things to do in Oregon, crossing a lava field is definitely a bucket list item for the ages.

Address:  McKenzie Hwy, Blue River, OR 97413, United States

26. Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure

Brocreative / Shutterstock

If you’ve never flung yourself from the top of a tree, this is your chance to make it happen.

Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure is a ziplining company, and it’s all about the thrill of hurdling across open air while attached to nothing but a razor-thin wire.

Ziplining isn’t the only fun that they offer, however.

They can also take you on hiking and rafting trips, or they can guide you to local attractions like a replica gold mining town.

They even have a special tour package called “Zip, Dip and Sip” that includes ziplining across the mountains, rafting down the river and enjoying fine wine at the nearby vineyard.

Get your heart pumping with Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure.

It isn’t the only ziplining experience that you can have in Oregon, but it’s one of the best.

Address:  9450 Old Stage Rd, Central Point, OR 97502, United States

27. Voodoo Doughnut

“The magic is in the hole.” With a tagline like that, how can you resist taking a peek inside Voodoo Doughnut ?

Open 24 hours per day, Voodoo Doughnut is one of the most peculiar places to visit in Portland , but it’s also a lot of fun.

It experiments with new puffs and pastries every day, so if you’re the type of person to enjoy bacon-topped doughnuts drizzled with maple syrup, this is the destination for you.

They don’t actually curse their doughnuts. That’s just a bit of lore.

You might want to try multiple doughnuts, however, to be totally sure of their safety.

A trip to Voodoo Doughnut is pretty much a requirement for anyone visiting Portland.

It’s beloved by the locals, and it’ll become a great vacation story as you describe the sights, sounds and smells of a one-of-a-kind bakery.

Address:  22 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204, United States

28. Kite Festival

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The Kite Festival is held every year in the summer and fall, and it’s one of the most fun things to do in Oregon.

Thousands of bright, colorful kites are sent into the sky, and while some of them are homemade crafts from kids or amateurs, many are gigantic, high-quality structures made by professionals.

Emojis can be the size of planes. Dragons can have tails that flutter in the breeze for dozens of feet.

There are fun things to do on the ground as well.

There are races in the sand with people strapped to parachute kites; there are arts and crafts workshops and musical performances by local artists.

Enjoy a unique event with the annual Kite Festival.

Whether you’re traveling in the blazing days of summer or the cool afternoons of autumn, the Kite Festival will put on a spectacular show that you won’t want to miss.

29. Olallie Lake Resort

Olallie Lake Resort

Get away from it all with a trip to the Olallie Lake Resort .

Located completely off the grid, it has no cell service and no electricity, but its simplicity offers a rare and rustic vacation experience.

How often do you get the chance to light your own oil lamps in a rustic wooden cabin?

As for activities, there’s plenty of stuff to do even without power.

If you’re a nature lover, you can go hiking or camping around the mountainous woods; if you enjoy quiet time on the water, you can enjoy fishing, swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding on the lake.

You’ll need to prepare yourself for a weekend without Instagram when you travel to Olallie Lake Resort.

If you aren’t afraid of unplugging, however, it’s definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Oregon.

Address:  Mt. Hood National Forest, 4 NF-4220, Oregon 97041, United States

30. Tamastslikt Cultural Institute

Tamastslikt Cultural Institute

Native Americans have lived in Oregon for thousands of years, and they have important stories to tell.

The good news is that the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute is here to preserve their art, culture, history and folklore.

Three tribes are represented by the institute: Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla.

They’ve each contributed texts and artifacts for educational purposes, and since the institute is run by fellow tribe members, everything is carefully protected and respectfully presented.

As for the fun stuff, the institute holds all kinds of special events.

From kid camps to pow-wows, there’s always something on the schedule.

The Tamastslikt Cultural Institute is the only Native American museum along the Oregon Trail.

It has the heavy burden of representing the past in a place where no one else does, but that just makes their work even more important.

Buy a ticket, learn something new and contribute to a good cause.

Address:  47106 Wildhorse Blvd, Pendleton, OR 97801, United States

31. Fort Stevens State Park

Thye-Wee Gn / Shutterstock

Fort Stevens State Park was built on Fort Stevens, an abandoned military base that withstood everything from sea storms to submarine attacks.

Today, it’s little more than a series of empty corridors and rusted artillery guns, but it’s become the centerpiece of one of the biggest attractions of the region.

At Fort Stevens State Park, visitors can enjoy more than 3,500 acres of beaches, forests, rivers and mountains.

There’s hiking and biking; there’s bird watching and whale watching.

You can jump into the water or fling some frisbees on the grass.

Tours are also a popular pastime.

One of the coolest things to see is a 100-year-old shipwreck that juts out of the sand of a local beach!

If you’re wondering what to do around Oregon, Fort Stevens State Park won’t disappoint.

It offers a wide range of activities that are sure to keep you busy, and with the fun local culture that surrounds the fort, it’s much more memorable than other parks.

Address:  100 Peter Iredale Rd, Hammond, OR 97121, United States

32. The Grotto

You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of The Grotto .

Though it’s a Catholic shrine dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus, it can also be enjoyed by secular visitors.

What makes The Grotto so special?

For starters, it’s located within a flowing landscape of flowers, gardens, brooks and bridges.

It also has an amazing centerpiece: a statue of Mary giving her blessings from a cave that was carved into a cliff wall.

If you’re religious, The Grotto is one of the most powerful places to go in Oregon; it’s well-known as a site of spiritual healing.

If you’re just interested in the gardens and caves, it’ll still make a nice detour for the weekend.

Consider a trip to The Grotto if you’re looking for fun and interesting tourist spots.

You might not get any visions, but you’ll be able to feel the faith in every stone.

Address:  8840 NE Skidmore St, Portland, OR 97220, United States

33. Darlingtonia State Natural Site

The Darlingtonia State Natural Site is one of the craziest places to visit in Oregon.

It’s devoted to a single species, the Darlingtonia californica, and this species isn’t just a run-of-the-mill flower.

It’s a carnivorous plant that literally eats insects for breakfast.

Also known as the “cobra lily,” Darlingtonia californica has a long, serpentine shape with an inner tube for catching and holding prey.

It even boasts a spiky leaf that looks like a forked tongue.

It’s vividly colorful, and the fields of the Darlingtonia State Natural Site are dazzling to the eye.

You could almost forget that it’s a field of mass slaughter!

If you don’t mind gruesome bug murders, however, consider a trip to the Darlingtonia State Natural Site.

It’ll be a fun and memorable thing to do while you’re traveling through Oregon, and you’ll have a cool story to tell once you’re back home.

Address:  5400 Mercer Lake Rd, Florence, OR 97439, United States

34. Newport

B Brown / Shutterstock

Hailed as “the coast you remember,” Newport is a kooky city in Oregon that offers everything from wax museums to gigantic aquariums with live animal shows.

It’s a fresh, funky sort of destination, especially for visitors who are looking for places to go that are off the beaten path.

Seafood joints are on every corner.

Lighthouses are still in operation.

Shops, restaurants, museums and art galleries line the bay, and critters are always coming on the shore to say hello.

The calls of sea lions are just as common as the honks of horns in traffic.

Newport is one of the major points of interest in Oregon.

You might not find it in a lot of brochures, but it’s a favorite of the locals, and it’ll provide a one-of-a-kind weekend during your trip.

Stop by if you’re in the mood for something that’s just plain different.

35. Multnomah Falls

f11photo / Shutterstock

If you like beautiful places, you’ll definitely want to put on your hiking shoes and make the trek to Multnomah Falls .

Not only does it weave through craggy cliffs and green hills like something out of a storybook, but since it’s fed by an underground stream, it’s a waterfall that never dries up.

You can visit it at any time of year!

You’ll need to take a short hike to reach Multnomah Falls, but it’s a moderate one, and there are plenty of sightseeing opportunities along the way.

Once you make it to the cascade, you can view it from trails, footpaths, lodges, bridges and observation decks.

Another nice feature of Multnomah Falls is the bridge.

It stretches across the top of the water, and you can either walk it or view it from a distance for some amazing photo ops.

If you’re headed to Oregon and wondering where to go, put Multnomah Falls on your list.

It’s one of the top tourist attractions in the state, and since it’s an everlasting waterfall, it’ll fit into your vacation schedule no matter when you visit.

Address: 53000 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Bridal Veil, OR 97010, United States

36. Captain George Flavel House Museum

Sveta Imnadze / Shutterstock

Built in 1885 by one of the first millionaires in the state, the Captain George Flavel House is an architectural marvel.

It’s almost like a miniature castle, especially since it was constructed in a “Queen Anne” style that brings to mind the wealth and splendor of Victorian London.

Heavy fabrics decorate ornate furnishings.

A spiral staircase will take you between floors, and stained glass windows give every room a colorful glow.

Outside, there’s a carriage house and a wild garden, and tall towers seem to reach for the sky.

The house measures 11,600 square feet in total, and it covers an entire city block.

The best places to visit in Oregon aren’t always the loudest.

Sometimes, they’re quiet homes with well-tended yards.

Consider a trip to the Captain George Flavel House Museum if you’re looking for something a little different than the usual tourist attractions.

Address:  441 8th St, Astoria, OR 97103, United States

37. Enchanted Forest

Enchanted Forest

Despite the name, the Enchanted Forest isn’t a garden or wilderness area.

It’s something much more fun: an amusement park!

It gets its name from a vivid storybook theme.

The attractions are inspired by Mother Goose, Alice in Wonderland, Grimms’ Fairy Tales and many others.

The rides have dragons and wizards; the shops are nestled in castles and decorated with jolly rogers.

There are light shows and comedy theaters.

There are water slides, bumper cars and haunted houses.

Visitors can dig for buried treasure or listen to folk songs at outdoor concerts.

Whether you’re a pirate or a princess, the Enchanted Forest is one of the top destinations in Oregon.

Families will love it, and couples can use it as a new, exciting alternative to the usual date nights.

Just make sure to call ahead and confirm its hours of operation since they can vary by the season!

Address:  8462 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR 97392, United States

38. Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

Nestled deep within the mountains, the Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort is a winter wonderland where the powder is always fresh and the sun is always sparkling on the slopes.

If you’re looking for the best vacation spots in Oregon, it’ll be a real treat!

The main attraction of the resort is skiing.

It offers both alpine and backcountry skiing, and whether you’re at the level of beginner, intermediate or expert, you’ll find some of the best slopes around.

Another benefit of the resort is its warm, cozy lodging.

It offers bars, cafes, cabins, shops, equipment rentals and everything else that you might need to have a great time away from home.

The Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort is one of the top 10 places to visit in Oregon.

If you’re making a list of where to go and what to do, this is a destination to consider!

Address:  47500 Anthony Lakes Hwy, North Powder, OR 97867, United States

39. Oregon Vortex

Sean O’Neill / flickr

If you like giving yourself the heebie-jeebies, you’ll love the eeriness of the Oregon Vortex .

It’s an unnaturally tilted building that sticks out of the ground, and there are multiple stories about how it came to be.

Local legend says that someone tried to live on sacred Native American ground and got punished by the land.

Others say that it was the office of a normal mining company before its owners started getting sucked into a supernatural vortex.

Lots of odd things happen in the building.

Brooms stand on end, and marbles roll uphill.

Objects appear to change size and shape depending on where you look at them.

If you don’t mind tempting the spirits during your vacation, consider a visit to the Oregon Vortex.

It’s a roadside attraction unlike any other, and it’s definitely one of the most fun attractions in the state.

Address:  4303 Sardine Creek L Fork Rd, Gold Hill, OR 97525, United States

40. Prehistoric Gardens

Is there still a part of you that gets excited about dinosaurs?

At the Prehistoric Gardens , you don’t have to be ashamed of loving Triceratopses or thinking that T-Rexes are totally cool.

It’s a roadside attraction that’s meant for the paleontologist in us all.

More than 20 life-sized dinosaur sculptures are spread out on the grounds.

The area is designed to look like a rainforest, so some of them are hidden by shrubs and trees.

You’ll need to step carefully during your explorations if you don’t want to run into a Velociraptor!

One ticket will give you an all-day pass, so you can wander the Prehistoric Gardens at your leisure.

Take pictures. Look up information about every species that you encounter.

If you have kids, it can become an interactive learning experience.

There’s a giddy, dino-loving third-grader inside of everyone, and with the Prehistoric Gardens, it will come right out.

Have fun at this attraction! It’s one of the best places to visit in Oregon.

Address:  36848 US-101, Port Orford, OR 97465, United States

41. Oregon State Fair

Michael Warwick / Shutterstock

Smell the hot dogs. Get sticky with the cotton candy.

Go back and forth on the pendulum rides until you’re ready to hurl.

There’s no place like a state fair, and the Oregon State Fair is especially fun!

Between 200,000 – 300,000 people visit the Oregon State Fair each year.

It’s chaotic, but you’ll buzz with the energy of the crowd as you enjoy food, drink, games, rides, concerts and other amusements.

The attractions range from carousels to bumper cars.

The menu can include everything from deep-fried pickles to finger-lickin’ barbecue.

Since it’s hosted in Oregon, there’s also an emphasis on the farming and agricultural industry with this fair.

There are usually petting zoos for livestock, and contests centered around pigs and cows are common.

In terms of Oregon attractions, it doesn’t get much better than the Oregon State Fair.

It’s completely unique to the state, and it’s one of the best ways to spend your time while you visit!

Address:  2330 17th St NE, Salem, OR 97301, United States

42. Three Capes Scenic Loop

Jasperdo / flickr

The Oregon Coast is famous for its scenic driving trails.

Not only does the topography change from beaches to forests to mountains, but there are also all kinds of attractions in the form of parks, lighthouses, landmarks, monuments and observation decks.

The Three Capes Scenic Loop is just one of the driving routes that you can find along the coast, but it’s among the best.

It has breathtaking views of both land and sea, and since it stretches for a good 50 miles along the ocean, you’ll have your pick of detours as well.

If you get hungry, stop at a local seafood bar and order a shrimp platter.

If you want to stretch your legs, pull over at one of the beaches for a long amble through the sand.

Scenic drives are a great way to enjoy the wonders of nature without having to sacrifice snacks and air conditioning.

If you’re interested, fill up the tank and get started on the Three Capes Scenic Loop.

43. Petersen Rock Garden

Petersen Rock Garden

The Petersen Rock Garden is another one of those nifty Oregon attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in the country.

Even more remarkably, it was built by a single man!

The creator was named Rasmus Peterson.

After emigrating from Europe at the age of 17, he started collecting little doo-dads that he found around town, including rocks, fossils, gems, geodes and crystals.

Then, he started building.

He built miniature replicas of churches and cottages.

He built bridges for the ponds and terraces for the houses.

Every available surface of the garden was either formed or decorated with rocks.

By the time of his death, the Petersen Rock Garden was a genuine marvel, and it quickly became one of the top destinations in Oregon for fans of the cool and the funky.

Give it an hour or two if you’ll be passing by!

Address:  7930 SW 77th St, Redmond, OR 97756, United States

44. Oregon Shakespeare Festival

star5112 / flickr

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival isn’t an event.

It’s a place.

In fact, it’s one of the most awesome places to see in the entire state.

Located in the city of Ashland, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a old-school repertory theater that’s been around since the 1930s.

It hosts dozens of performances per week and hundreds per year; at any given time, there are at least five shows on the roster.

They don’t limit themselves to Shakespeare.

The Bard is their favorite, of course, but they also have plays and productions for everything from Greek tragedies to Spanish comedies.

They’ll even throw in the occasional blockbuster show from a well-known Broadway title.

The performances are all given in an outdoor, open-air theater.

During the day, the sun shines on the actors; at night, the stage lights up with a warm golden glow.

You don’t have to be a theater geek to appreciate a good play in a vintage setting.

If you’re looking to have fun in Ashland, book a ticket for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

Address:  15 S Pioneer St, Ashland, OR 97520, United States

45. Baldwin Hotel Museum

User:bobjgalindo [ CC BY-SA ]

Located in the quiet, sleepy town of Klamath Falls, it’s been run by the same two families for generations, and they haven’t changed much about the decor.

In fact, one of the best things about the Baldwin Hotel Museum is the fact that it’s basically a time capsule of the early 1900s.

The wallpaper is the same; the furniture is the same.

If it isn’t authentic, it’s an exact replica.

Another charming feature of the museum is that the docents are very friendly and knowledgeable.

They’ll give you a tour, and they’ll tell you everything that there is to know about the hotel and the historical 1900s life in general.

The Baldwin Hotel Museum isn’t one of the flashy tourist attractions of Oregon, but some things don’t need glitz and glamour to be fun.

If you’d enjoy a low-key afternoon in a quaint little museum, this is the destination for you.

Address:  31 Main St, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, United States

46. Washington Park

Oregon is filled with beautiful places.

In fact, you might be so overwhelmed by your options that you don’t even know where to visit.

But Washington Park is a destination that you won’t want to miss, especially since it can serve as a gateway to many other Oregon attractions.

Here are just a few things to see that are within walking distance of Washington Park:

– Oregon Zoo – Hoyt Arboretum – International Rose Test Garden – Washington Park Amphitheater – Portland Children’s Museum – Oregon Holocaust Memorial

This isn’t even including the amenities of Washington Park itself.

From playgrounds to archery ranges, it’s sure to keep you busy, so it’s one of the top 10 things to do in Oregon for sure.

Address:  4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221, United States

47. Train Mountain Railroad

Train Mountain Railroad

Many people had a “train phase” when they were younger.

For some, however, the dream is still alive, and it can be enjoyed in a quirky way at the Train Mountain Railroad .

You see, the Train Mountain Railroad isn’t a regular railroad.

It’s for miniature trains.

These knee-high locomotives can be ridden like the real thing, but they only reach about five miles per hour, so they provide a scenic journey rather than a speedy trip.

There’s also an art to straddling them just right.

Once every three years, miniature train hobbyists come together for the Train Mountain Triennial.

It’s a fun, memorable event that welcomes visitors who are interested in tiny engines and even tinier tracks.

You won’t find the Train Mountain Railroad anywhere else in the world.

It’s been officially certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest hobby railroad in the world, so it’s a one-of-a-kind attraction in Oregon.

If you’re headed nearby, pull on the whistle and get your choo-choo going!

Address:  36941 S Chiloquin Rd, Chiloquin, OR 97624, United States

48. Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

KennStilger47 / Shutterstock

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is only open to the public for one month out of the year, so it’s just as rare and fleeting as the blossoms that come out of the soil.

For visitors who are passing through the state at the right time, however, they’ll be blessed with an unforgettable memory of a gorgeous destination.

Rows and rows of tulips are cultivated in every color.

The pinks mingle with the purples; the reds and whites contrast against the yellows and oranges.

In the background, Mount Hood rises majestically like something off a postcard.

You can view the tulips with a walking tour or a tractor ride offered by the farm owners.

There are also hot air balloon rides that will pass over the colorful, bountiful fields.

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is one of the best sights in the United States.

It’s a little slice of the Netherlands that can be found right in Oregon.

If you want nice pictures for your scrapbook, this is the place to get them.

Address:  33814 S Meridian Rd, Woodburn, OR 97071, United States

49. Apple Valley Country Store

Apple Valley Country Store

The Apple Valley Country Store is one of the hidden gems of Oregon.

If you have a sweet tooth, it’s the single best place to fill your belly with pies, cakes, tarts, jellies, jams and cinnamon rolls.

It’s also a nice store for handmade foodstuffs like apple butter and maple syrup.

In addition to the ready-to-eat desserts, they sell all kinds of ingredients for good old-fashioned home cooking.

You can enjoy the cookies and milkshakes right there in the store, and you can pack up some spices, sauces and pie fillings for later.

The signature dish of the Apple Valley Country Store is a four-pound apple pie.

Many have tried to finish it, but few have completed their quest.

Do you think that you can do it?

Is your mouth already watering at the thought of huckleberry milkshakes and chocolate-topped ice cream sundaes?

If you’re ready to stuff your face and have some fun, indulge yourself at the Apple Valley Country Store.

Address:  2363 Tucker Rd, Hood River, OR 97031, United States

50. Wallowa Lake Tramway

Ashley O’Photography / flickr

Say goodbye to Oregon with the Wallowa Lake Tramway .

It’s one of many lifts and gondolas that you can find scattered around the mountains, but since it ascends more than 3,700 feet, it’s among the best.

The panoramic views will be stunning.

When you reach the top of the tramway, the cliffs below will look like pinpricks.

Since there’s a rest area at the summit, you’ll be able to gaze to your heart’s content as you sip a cold beer or munch on a stacked hamburger.

The restaurant has a simple fare, but it’s hearty.

No one wants to leave Oregon once they arrive.

All good things must come to an end, however, and with the Wallowa Lake Tramway, at least you can take one last look at the beauty and majesty of the wilderness before you return home.

Address:  59919 Wallowa Lake Hwy, Joseph, OR 97846, United States

Got more time? Why not check out some of the things to do in Seaside, Oregon ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Oregon

These are just a few of the most memorable things to do in Oregon.

Whether you’re looking for death-defying thrills or relaxing days on the beach, it’s a state that can offer it all.

17 BEST Oregon Coast Towns to Visit

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If you were to ask Oregonians what defines an Oregon coast town, you’d probably get a myriad of different answers.

Is it the panoramic, historical lighthouses dotting the coastline that make Oregon’s beaches so special? Or, is it the sheer cliffs and rugged landscapes that define the essence of the Oregon coast? Maybe it’s the charming towns perched along the coastline or the fresh seafood they serve up in cute cafes and breweries.

In truth, it’s all of the above. Whether it’s lighthouses or cliffs, Oregon has an incredible coastline. From the warm dunes in the south to the trendy towns further north, the array of diverse landscapes and scenery is breathtaking.

With such a great selection of beaches, it’s often difficult to figure out which one to visit.

Whether you’re an Oregon local looking for a new beach or taking a road trip along the coast , we’ve curated our favorite Oregon coast towns so you can spend more time enjoying your trip and less time figuring out where to go. With that in mind, let’s dive right in…

Table of Contents

The Best Oregon Coast Towns

Things to do in astoria, things to do in seaside, things to do in cannon beach, things to do in manzanita beach, things to do in tillamook bay, things to do in pacific city, things to do in neskowin, things to do in lincoln city:, things to do in depoe bay, things to do in newport, things to do in yachats, places to stay near yachats:, things to do in florence, things to do in coos bay, things to do in brandon, things to do in port orford, places to stay near port orford:, things to do in gold beach, things to do in brookings, final thoughts, 15 adventurous things to do in lincoln city, 11 adventurous things to do in astoria, oregon, 11 adventurous things to do in pacific city, 13 adventurous things to do around seaside, oregon, 13 adventurous things to do in newport, oregon.

We could go on and on about Oregon’s coast and the charming communities that stretch along the scenic shoreline, but for now, we’ve started off with 17 of our favorite Oregon beach towns AND the best adventures in the area.

You can trust us because not only did I personally grow up going to these coast towns all the time, but I’ve road-tripped it in my adult years countless times, too!

→ If you don’t have a lot of time, do this Oregon Coast day trip from Portland to see the best of the coast with a local.

✋ HOLD UP! Don’t Forget…

You need some wheels! It’s nearly impossible to get around the USA and check out the best adventures without a car! Here are our top recommendations…

🚗 Rent a car

If you don’t have your own, renting a car is your best bet!

👉 Find Deals on Cars and SUVs

🚐 Rent a home on wheels

For the more adventurous, rent a van or RV and ditch the hotel.

👉 Find The Best Van For Your Trip

As the oldest town in the state, Astoria is one of Oregon’s most iconic coastal towns.

The settlement was formed along the mouth of the Columbia River in 1811 and features gorgeous Victorian-era homes perched along the hillside. It’s historic, it’s scenic, but above all, Astoria holds some of the most exciting outdoor adventures along the entire Oregon Coast.

Thanks to its location near the Pacific Ocean and the border of Washington, this Oregon coast town draws visitors from near and far to hike wooded trails, discover old forts and shipwrecks, and explore the state parks that surround the city. Oh, and did we mention this town was the set for The Goonies?

• Explore the trails in Cape Disappointment State Park . The North Head Trail is particularly special, with panoramic views of the North Head Lighthouse and a long stretch through lush coastal forest.

• Wander along Astoria’s Riverwalk. The Riverwalk stretches along the coastline parallel to the downtown area. You can walk or bike, and there are plenty of fun spots to stop along the way.
• Check out Fort Stevens State Park. Fort Stevens State Park is an old military fort located about 20 minutes from Astoria. Some of the original fortifications remain to this day, and there are also hiking trails, freshwater lakes, sandy beaches, and even an old shipwreck!

• Fuel up at Coffee Girl. After a busy day of exploring this stunning Oregon coast town, you can get your caffeine fix at Coffee Girl. While you’re in the area, be sure to explore the rest of Pier 39.
• Troll for Salmon at Buoy 10 . Buoy 10 is widely known as the most productive salmon fishery in Oregon, thanks to its position near the ocean. Buoy 10 is most popular from late July through October when both chinook and coho salmon are available.

• Chase waterfalls at Youngs River Falls. The Youngs River Falls area sits about 15 minutes from Astoria and features a beautiful waterfall, easy (yet rewarding) trails, and a nice little swimming area if you happen to be lucky with the weather.

READ MORE: 11 Adventurous Things to do in Astoria

Places to Stay Near Astoria Beach:

• Shepherds Cottage Retreat
• Clementine’s Bed & Breakfast
• Norblad Hotel
• More of the best hotels in Astoria

Campgrounds: KOA Resorts | Fort Stevens State Park

Searching for the perfect beach day along the Oregon coast? Set your GPS for Seaside .

This gorgeous beach town lacks some of the cool rock formations that other Oregon coast towns offer, but the wide sandy beaches are perfect for bumming, boogie boarding, and sandcastle making.

The town is quite touristy and glitzy, but there are also plenty of uncrowded trails to hike, quiet rivers to paddle, and big waves to catch. Seaside is a paradise for those who know what to look for, and it’s one of the few Oregon coast towns that lets you have it all.

• Kayak the Necanicum River. The Necanicum River flows through Seaside directly into the ocean, offering some great kayaking and paddle boarding opportunities . There are multiple places in town to rent kayaks or paddleboards, and it’s one of the best adventures within city limits.

• Visit Del Rey Beach State Recreation Site . You can drive your car right onto the beach here (make sure you have 4WD), pitch a tent, or just enjoy a relaxing beach day in a scenic location.
• Hike the Tillamook Head Trail . Offering views of one of the most splendid lighthouses on the Oregon Coast , the Tillamook Head Trail is a must for anyone visiting Seaside. It’s wedged right between Seaside and Cannon Beach and is a great option for hikers coming from either location.

• Conquer the Saddle Mountain Hike . For more great views, tackle the Saddle Mountain hike. This 5.2-mile trek is a bit more moderate, and there is a pretty intense incline. The views here are fantastic, and on a clear day, you can see all the way from the Pacific Ocean to Mount Hood .

• Amble along the Seaside promenade walk. Feel the sea breeze in your hair as you walk along Seaside’s oceanfront promenade. There are places to access the beach on one side, and on the other you’ll find cute cottages, coffee shops, boutiques, and a brewery.

READ MORE: 13 Adventurous Things To Do Around Seaside

Places to Stay Near Seaside Beach:

• Edgewood Cove Guest House
• Cozy Pet Friendly Cottage
• Cabin at Starry Night Inn

Campgrounds: Seaside RV Resort, North Side | Seaside RV Resort

3. Cannon Beach

Often regarded as one of the best beaches in the world, Cannon Beach is an absolute must when visiting Oregon’s coast.

It’s the epitome of a classic beach town: picturesque, quaint, and memorable. Haystack Rock stands out as a coastal landmark, but almost everything about this beach begs to be admired.

What’s more, there’s a ton to do here for outdoor lovers, with scenic sites and opportunities for adventure around every turn.

• Explore Ecola State Park. Ecola State Park is a wildly popular state park located in the heart of Cannon Beach. It offers a great complex of trails and views to explore, making it a fantastic option for adventurers wanting a classic Oregon coast experience.

• Visit Hug Point State Recreation Site . This area is all about the beach, which used to be home to an old stagecoach route. Today, it’s a scenic stretch of sand with deep sea caves, a rugged coastline, and giant rock formations jutting up out of the surf.
• Hike to Neahkahnie Mountain . About thirty minutes south of Cannon Beach, Neahkahnie Mountain is one of the most beautiful hikes on the Oregon coast . The hike ends up close to 6 miles round-trip from the north trailhead, and from the south, it’ll top out right around 3 miles round-trip.

• Go Tidepooling. Cannon Beach has some great tidepooling opportunities. For your best chances of seeing marine life, head to Haystack Rock or Arcadia Beach. And remember to tidepool at low tide!
• Kayak Ecola Creek. If you’re into kayaking, don’t miss Ecola Creek. It runs straight into the Pacific Ocean, but the true kayaking action happens a little bit further upstream. The creek is small and easily navigable, with some of the most spectacular scenery of any Oregon Coast town.

• Wander around town. Cannon Beach has a super cute downtown area, so remember to spend some time wandering around after you get your fix of nature. Indulge in great seafood, visit the shops, hit up a market, or plop down for a beer at the Public Coast Brewery.
• Walk to Haystack Rock. This is Cannon Beach’s crowning glory, and it’s not hard to see why. Access the beach wherever you can (there are plenty of access points in and around town), then walk to the giant, lone rock in the ocean. It’s that simple!

READ MORE: 14 Adventurous Things To Do in Cannon Beach

Places to Stay Near Cannon Beach:

• Adorable Seaside Cottage
• Cannon Beach Tree House
• Buccaneer Bay Bungalow
• More of the best hotels in Cannon Beach

Campgrounds: Wright’s for Camping

4. Manzanita Beach

Manzanita is the definition of a quaint oceanside village, with an itty bitty population and unspoiled scenery everywhere you look.

It’s less frequented than Cannon Beach to the north, with easy access to the nearby Oswald West State Park and Nehalem Bay – both hubs for adventures of all kinds.

If you’re looking for an underrated and beautiful town on the Oregon Coast with plenty of exciting outdoor pursuits to keep you entertained, Manzanita just may be the perfect choice for you.

• Discover the town of Manzanita Beach. Spend some time wandering Main Street, where you’ll find artisan shops, upscale souvenirs, and even an acclaimed whiskey bar.
• Kayak and camp at Nehalem Bay State Park . Making its way directly into the Pacific Ocean, Nehalem Bay is more reminiscent of a river than a bay. Fairly narrow and quite shallow throughout most of its entirety, Nehalem is one of our favorite bays on the coast to camp and kayak on.

• Discover Oswald West State Park . Whether you want to hike epic trails, enjoy a scenic picnic, or even shred some waves, Oswald West State Park is one of the best Oregon Coast State Parks .
• Have a beach day at Short Sand Beach . Located at the center of Oswald West State Park, Short Sand Beach offers soft sand for bumming, great waves for surfing and paddleboarding, and trailheads to lead you to some of the best lookouts in the state.

• Attend the Friday night farmers’ market. Who doesn’t love a good farmers market? Manzanita Beach puts on a fun market every Friday evening in the summer. Browse fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and other fun stalls.
• Hike to Cape Falcon . One of the most popular trails in the area, the Cape Falcon Trail , is a 4.6-mile hike that is truly a stunner. A seasonal waterfall halfway through the hike and a meadow with a view at the end make this one of our absolute favorite hikes on the Oregon Coast.

Places to Stay Near Manzanita Beach:

• Cottage by the Sea
• Artist Cottage

Campgrounds: Nehalem Falls Campground | Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park

5. Tillamook Bay

While it’s probably best known for its dairy industry, Tillamook Bay has a lot more on offer than just its (amazing) cheese factory.

Located on stunning Tillamook Bay (the product of more than a half dozen major rivers and tributaries), Tillamook is a unique town when it comes to adventuring and scenery.

There are hundreds of miles of trails on both the land and in the rivers, plus a gorgeous state forest that often goes undiscovered in lieu of other pursuits (remember that cheese factory we were telling you about?).

• Visit the Tillamook Creamery. You don’t visit Tillamook without stopping at the creamery, trust us. You can take a tour to see how the dairy products are manufactured, sample some cheese, or just pop in for a quick scoop of ice cream.
• Hike in Cape Lookout State Park. Great hiking trails and even better ocean views are all things you’ll be rewarded with at Cape Lookout State Park . Just south of Tillamook, it offers serene views up and down the coast, and the trails in the park are relatively short and easy.

• Tackle the Trails at Tillamook State Forest. For more scenic trails along Oregon’s coast, check out Tillamook State Forest . Over 80 miles of trails run through new and old-growth forests in this area, with options for hikers of every skill set. There are also numerous campgrounds here!

• Drive the Three Capes Scenic Loop. No need to wear your hiking boots out for this one. Hop in the car for some epic views along the Three Capes Scenic Loop , which connects Cape Meares , Cape Lookout , and Cape Kiwanda .
• Down fresh oysters at Nevør Shellfish Farm. Seafood lovers know that Oregon coast towns have some of the freshest fish around, but if you don’t want to shell out tons of cash, head to Nevør Shellfish Farm. You can get your oysters to go, or have them shuck them for you on-site.

Places to Stay Near Tillamook Bay:

• Wave Watch ‘N
• Happy Camp Beachfront Cabin
• Blue Sea Oceanfront Cottage

Campgrounds: Cape Lookout State Park Campground | Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina

RELATED: 11 Stunning Things To Do on the North Oregon Coast

6. Pacific City

For adventurers who want to do it all and see it all, there’s no better town along the Oregon coast than Pacific City. Throwback craft brews on the beach, try your hand at hang gliding, or climb up the towering sand dunes for some epic views (just not in that order, probably).

Nestled just beneath the large headland of Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City is popular with Oregon locals from all over. It offers great views, restaurants, and plenty of outdoor adventures close to the city.

• Climb the Giant Sand Dune. When you arrive at Pacific City, there will be no ambiguity as to which sand dune we’re referring to. The dune sits along the scenic Cape Kiwanda, just north of Pacific City Proper. There’s not really a designated trail to the top; rather, this one is best improvised.
• Explore Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area. After you conquer the giant sand dune, you can spend the rest of the day in Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area tidepooling, bumming on the beach, surfing, hang gliding, whale watching… the opportunities are endless!

• Go surfing. Pacific City is one of the best Oregon coast towns for surfing . The waves are especially rad after a storm or anytime in the winter.
• Rent a Paddle Board on the Nestucca River. Many Oregon coast towns are characterized by some sort of river flowing through them, and Pacific City is no exception. We recommend renting a paddleboard or kayak and exploring some of the dramatic scenery that the Nestucca has to offer.

• Cruise the beach in your car. The beaches in the Pacific City area are some of the few in Oregon where vehicles are allowed. In the town of Pacific City itself, many people will park their cars along the beach and enjoy the views from the comfort of their vehicles. 4WD is recommended!

READ MORE: 11 Adventurous Things To Do in Pacific City

Places to Stay Near Pacific City Beach:

• Mermaid Cottage
• Main Deck Cottage
• Surf & Sand Inn

Campgrounds: Sandbeach Campground | Hart’s Camp Airstream Hotel & RV Park

7. Neskowin

Offering more solitude and equally impressive views as its cousin to the north (Pacific City), Neskowin is one of the best Oregon coast towns. The town is quaint, yet it has a couple of stellar restaurants and nearly endless opportunities for adventure.

Even though the town isn’t huge and lodging options can be limited, it has a fantastic beach that often gets overlooked. Put simply, Neskowin is, without a doubt, worth your time.

• Grab picnic supplies at the Neskowin Trading Company. There’s nothing better than a picnic with a good view, and there are plenty of spots around town to do just that. If you need to stock up on supplies, head to the Neskowin Trading Company, where you’ll find fresh deli options, home-cooked baked goods, and plenty of beer and wine.
• Climb Proposal Rock. Once you’re on the beach in Neskowin, you shouldn’t have much trouble identifying Proposal Rock . Though there aren’t any officially maintained trails here, you can wander the tide pools around the rock at low tide.

• Check out the Ghost Forest . While you’re on the beach, don’t miss the Ghost Forest. Hundreds of ancient tree stumps jut out from the sand, and scientists believe these remains are the result of earthquakes and tsunamis centuries ago.
• Visit the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge . Featuring 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. Wander the trails as you search for wildlife like waterfowl, deer, and more, all protected in this stunning area.

Places to Stay Near Neskowin Beach:

• Darrs Beach Cottage
• Ocean View Oasis
• Coastal A-Frame Cabin

Campgrounds: Neskowin Creek RV Resort

8. Lincoln City

Beach bum or adrenaline seeker? Who said you can’t be a little bit of both? Lincoln City offers visitors plenty of options for chilling AND adventuring – a true ‘choose-your-own-adventure’ kind of town.

Lincoln City is a well-known destination for day trips from Portla n d and Salem. With Devil’s Lake to the north and Siletz Bay just a bit further south, its place on the map is part of what makes Lincoln City so appealing.

The town’s scenic beach, coupled with the natural features in the area, make Lincoln City one of the most loved Oregon coastal towns, and it’s certainly worth checking out on your next trip road trip through the area.

READ MORE: 15 Adventurous Things To Do in Lincoln City

• Go fat tire biking. Experience the Oregon coast in a new way. Rent a fat tire bike from Safari Town Surf Shop and glide across the sand around town. TIP: stick to the hard-packed sand along the water line for smooth sailing riding.
• Kayak Siletz Bay. One of the most drop-dead gorgeous bays on the entire Oregon Coast, Siletz Bay isn’t one to miss. An expansive beach and some oceanfront restaurants complete the overall aesthetic, and you won’t get tired of things to look at while you’re paddling. There’s a lone spot near the bay’s east end where you can rent kayaks or boats to enjoy your day out on the water.

• Hit the beach. There are plenty of spots around town for beach bumming, surfing, tidepooling, and swimming. In fact, Lincoln City has seven miles of soft sandy beach, with 17 public access points. You won’t be short on options for beach days here! You can even stick around until evening and enjoy a bonfire on the beach.
• Hike God’s Thumb. Looking north from Lincoln City Beach, you may notice a rock formation at the end. Many admire it from afar, not realizing that it’s actually one of the coolest hikes in this Oregon coast town. The God’s Thumb Hike is a 4-mile out-and-back hike that provides stunning views over Lincoln City Beach.

• Camp at Devil’s Lake. Not to be confused with the Devil’s Lake located near Bend in central Oregon, Devil’s Lake in Lincoln City is an excellent spot to camp. From hiking to fishing and kayaking, there are plenty of things to do in and around this scenic lake.

Places to Stay Near Lincoln City Beach:

• Cottage by the Beach
• Whale Watch

Campgrounds: Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area | Lincoln City KOA Journey

RELATED: 17 Cool Oregon Coast Campgrounds to Stay At

9. Depoe Bay

Of all the coastal towns in Oregon, there’s no better place for whale watching than Depoe Bay.

Don’t let the itty bitty harbor fool you. Large marine life flock here like clockwork between March and December, as do the tourists to witness the incredible events.

Once you’ve seen enough whale tails, you can park your bum on the beach, hike some scenic trails, or hit up the local winery!

• Watch for Whales at the Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint. One of the best places for whale watching in Depoe Bay is the Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint. Take in views of the ocean and scenic Cape Foulweather from over 500 feet above the sea.

• Enjoy the natural beauty of Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area . This peaceful park boasts a grassy day-use area, a long sand beach, and a series of wooden footbridges. You can spend your day hunting for washed-up driftwood on the beach, exploring tide pools, or birdwatching along one of the park’s trails.
• Explore Beverly Beach State Park. Beverly Beach State Park is the perfect spot to park your bum on sunny days. The park is also known for hosting some great waves for surfing, scenic beachside trails, and excellent wildlife-watching opportunities (yes, including whales!).

• Stop by the Depoe Bay Scenic View Area & Park. This is one of the best viewpoints in the area, and it requires zero hiking! The rest of the park stretches through the downtown area, making it a convenient spot to get those iconic coastal views.
• Visit the downtown area. Once you’re downtown, be sure to pop into some of the cute stores and cafes that line the ocean. This is a foodie’s paradise, so don’t hesitate to stuff yourself before continuing on to another Oregon coast town.

Places to Stay Near Depoe Bay:

• Whale-Come Home
• Coastal Breeze
• Suite Williams

Campgrounds: Beverly Beach State Park

10. Newport

Equal parts eclectic and iconic, Newport is often thought of as the capital of the Oregon coast.

Travelers curious about the mysteries of the Pacific Ocean will adore the sights of Newport. It’s a fantastic place to view marine life and surreal coastal formations, and the town’s scenic viewpoints help you spot migrating whales and other marine life just offshore.

This charming Oregon coastal town also has a splash of Victorian architecture, some epic engineering marvels, and plenty of spots to grab a good beer in between sightseeing.

• Visit the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. The area’s star attraction is the 93 ft Yaquina Head Lighthouse, perched on a basalt rock headland. Standing at the top of Oregon’s tallest lighthouse gives you sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal landscape, and marine life like whales, waterfowl and more.

• Spend a day at South Beach State Park. This stunning 498-acre park is tucked between the Pacific Ocean and Yaquina Bay and offers tons of outdoor activities, including hiking, whale watching, and surfing.
• Discover Devil’s Punch Bowl . One of the coolest spots along the Oregon coast, the Devil’s Punch Bowl , is a geologic treasure. Shaped like a giant punch bowl carved into the rocks, the rock formation fills with water during violent storms.

• Have a pint at Rogue Brewing. One of the most famous breweries along the Oregon coast is Rogue Brewing. It’s set just along Yaquina Bay and in front of the crabbing pier, and it’s a great spot to wander, as you can literally watch beer being made while enjoying their beers and food!
• Check out the Crabbing Pier. Want to experience the thrill of catching your own crab? What better place than Newport – the self-proclaimed “Dungeness Crab Capital of the World.” It’s a fun and relatively easy activity for the day, and the best months for meaty catches are between summer and fall.

READ MORE: 13 Adventurous Things to Do in Newport

Places to Stay Near Newport:

• Cozy Nye Beach Bungalow
• Bayfront Lodge Studio with a Fireplace & Balcony
• Cozy Dog-Friendly Cottage
• More on the best hotels in Newport

Campgrounds: South Beach State Park | Beverly Beach State Park

11. Yachats

The wonders of Oregon’s coastal towns are far from a well-kept secret. But there are still a few spots that fly under the radar. Welcome to Yachats.

Situated off the scenic Highway 101, Yachats is one of Oregon’s hidden coastal gems. While you may be tempted to pass through the tiny town without stopping, those who spend some time in Yachats will find plenty of reasons to stick around for a day or two.

Yachats lays on the small-town charm thick. From local diners serving up fresh catches of the day to incredible seascapes and a plethora of outdoor offerings, Yachats is not to be missed.

• Explore Cape Perpetua. Head south to Cape Perpetua to the highest accessible viewpoint by car on the entire coast. After taking in the scenery from the viewpoint, you can hike over 26 miles of trails, drive between scenic lookout points, or explore the rich and varied tidepools.

• Wander around downtown Yachats. Although small, Yachats has plenty to keep visitors entertained. Pop into the rare gem gallery, visit the Little Log Historic Museum, or just wine and dine to your heart’s content.
• Have a pint at Yachats Brewing + Farm Store. One of the best places in town is Yachats Brewing. If you’re not into microbrews, you can always opt for kombucha or probiotic sodas! If you’re feeling hungry, you can purchase some house-fermented veggies to go with your bevvy. Note that opening times vary throughout the year.
• Visit Thors Well . One of the biggest draws to Yachats and Cape Perpetua is Thors Well . Also known as ‘the Drainpipe to the Pacific’ and ‘the Gate to Hell,’ this oceanic sinkhole has been baffling onlookers for centuries. When the waves hit the well, you can expect an epic water show, especially during high tide.

• Hike part of the Oregon Coast Trial. The 804 trail is a short and easy section of the Oregon Coast Trail that runs along Yachat’s rugged coast. This is a great hike for anyone looking to avoid the crowds that plague some of the more popular trails in the area.
• Ocean Cove Sunset
• Romantic Cottage

Campgrounds: Cape Perpetua Campground

12. Florence

Found right in the middle of the Oregon Coast, Florence is at the center of all the action. With raging waterfalls, tall dunes, and rugged cliffside trails, this Oregon coast town is the place to be if you want to get the adrenaline pumping.

The scenery here rivals some of the best on the rest of the coast, and there are plenty of things to keep you entertained as you admire the sights.

• Rent a Dune Buggy. Renting a dune buggy to roam the Oregon dunes is one of the most exhilarating adventures in Florence. You won’t find many options for this activity further north, so take advantage while you’re in the area!

• Kayak the Siltcoos River. The Siltcoos River is hands down the best kayaking spot in Florence. It’ll take you through some lush coastal forest scenery, and the current isn’t too strong. The river starts at Siltcoos Lake, which is one of the few lakes in Oregon that gets a salmon run!

• Hike the Heceta Head to Hobbit Beach Trail. The Hobbit Trail doesn’t disappoint when it comes to scenery. A gorgeous beach, a historic lighthouse, and sweeping ocean views are all in store on this trail. At just under 4 miles round-trip, this is a great side excursion for adventurers interested in a great hike that won’t take all day. Read more on how to explore Heceta Head !

• Hike to Kentucky Falls. While most Oregon coast towns are renowned for their pretty coastal views, Florence offers visitors the chance to see a different side of the state without venturing too far from Route 101. Kentucky Falls sits within the lush Siuslaw National Forest , and you’ll hike through verdant, old-growth forests before reaching the three thundering waterfalls.

• Visit the Sea Lion Caves. You know that Oregon coast towns are great for whale watching, but if you want to switch it up, go. to the Sea Lion Caves! As the name suggests, you’ll find plenty of sea lions lazing about inside the caves, and there are also some walking trails you can explore.

READ MORE: 9 Adventurous Things To Do in Florence

Places to Stay Near Florence Beach:

• Pelican’s Perch
• Huckleberry Cottage
• Fisherman’s Cottage

Campgrounds: Heceta Beach RV Park | Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park Campground

13. Coos Bay

Combine one part historic charm, one part outdoor adventure, and one part epic scenery, and boom – you’ve got Coos Bay.

With a population of just over 16,000, Coos Bay is one of the “bigger” cities along the Oregon coast. Many adventure seekers choose to make Coos Bay their home base while exploring the coast due to the abundance of entertainment and accommodation options.

There are a plethora of state parks around Coos Bay, along with soft sand beaches, scenic hiking trails, and fruitful fishing holes.

• Get the adrenaline pumping at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. One of the biggest draws to Coos Bay is the dramatic Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area . While there are plenty of hiking trails within the recreation area, one of the most thrilling ways to get around the dunes is via OHV. You could also spend the day here sandboarding, taking a dune buggy tour, or paddling along the shoreline.

• Go for a drive along the Cape Arago Highway. This scenic drive boasts some of the state’s best coastal scenery, with plenty of spots to stop off along the way. Sunset Bay State Park and Shore Acres State Park are favorite detours, with gorgeous trails offering additional viewpoints.
• Wander through Golden & Silver Falls State Natural Area. This hidden gem of a park is well off the beaten path and features miles of incredible hiking trails – many of which you will likely have all to yourself! The views from the trails are breathtaking, with massive waterfalls and dense forests making up the bulk of the scenery.

• Meander along the Coos Bay Boardwalk. Taking a stroll along the Coos Bay Boardwalk will not only give you great views of the bay area, but there are also some information signs depicting the city’s history.
• Explore downtown Coos Bay. After you visit the boardwalk, head downtown to see what Coos Bay is all about. Be sure to admire the iconic Egyptian Theater, pop in for some sweet treats at Cranberry Sweets & More, or spend a rainy day perusing art at the Coos Art Museum.

Places to Stay Near Coos Bay:

• Bayview Cottage
• Sparrows Nest
• Cottage on the Bay

Campgrounds: Sunset Bay State Park

RELATED: A Legendary Oregon Coast Road Trip—35 Stops & 3 Itineraries

Bandon is next level when it comes to scenery and cozy, coastal town vibes.

Beloved for its dramatic rock formations, this Oregon coast town entices nature lovers and geology nerds alike. Legendary tales surround Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, and its tidal flats draw birdwatchers to the area.

Comfortable year-round temperatures make Brandon a hotspot for fishing, hiking, and cycling. You can also admire the sea stacks and rugged cliffs from lighthouses or partake in the annual shellfish and cranberry harvests.

• Explore Bullards Beach State Park . Located along the Coquille River, Bullards Beach State Park features hiking and biking trails, a horse camp, and some great fishing spots. Get an intense workout by cycling through thick sand or hiking around sweeping dunes.

• Admire artwork along the Oregon Coast Public Art Trail. This 30-mile trail stretches from Brandon to Port Orford and features paintings, sculptures, furniture, and more from local artists. There are also several galleries located in towns along the way, so don’t hesitate to take a detour!
• Hike around the several state parks near Bandon. Bandon Beach visitors are lucky to have a cluster of state parks nearby, all with beautiful hiking trails and scenic viewpoints in hefty doses. Sunset Bay State Park is a favorite, as are Cape Arago State Park and Shore Acres State Park.

• Enjoy a beach day. Brandon Beach has some of the best beaches along the Oregon coast , making it the perfect place for beach bumming, swimming, surfing, and all the other classic beach day activities.
• Visit during the Brandon Cranberry Festival. Each September, Brandon puts on an epic cranberry festival with three days of fun activities. You can see live music, dine on cranberry-inspired food, shop the farmer’s market, and more.

READ MORE: 9 Cool Adventures Around Bandon Beach, Oregon

Places to Stay Near Bandon Beach:

• Cranberry Overlook at Black Moon Farms
• Bandon Bear Cottage
• Dog-Friendly Home with Fenced-In Yard

Campgrounds: Bullards Beach State Park | Sunset Bay State Park

15. Port Orford

Surrounded by gorgeous white sand beaches, impressive rock formations, and staggering mountain scenes, Port Orford is the embodiment of Oregon’s coastal beauty.

There is plenty here to entertain even the most adventurous travelers, including state parks, beaches, trails, and enough raw beauty to keep you coming back time and time again.

With its bustling harbor, boutique shops, and cute local eateries, this is the perfect stop for anyone who wants to couple unspoiled nature with some awesome creature comforts.

• Explore Cape Blanco State Park. Cape Blanco is one of the most secluded state parks in Oregon. With the remoteness comes unmatched raw beauty, which is best observed by hiking along one of the park’s scenic trails. While you’re in the park, don’t miss the iconic Cape Blanco Lighthouse.

• Hike the trails at Humbug Mountain State Park. Humbug Mountain is all about hiking. The park is home to one of the highest mountains in the state, offering hikers sweeping views from 1730 feet above the sea. There are also thick forests, trickling creeks, sandy beaches, and a cozy campsite for overnight travelers.

• Take a stroll along the beach of Battle Rock Wayside Park. This is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, with great coastal views and a soft sandy beach. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a whale as you wander around the park!
• Discover Floras Lake State Natural Area. Floras Lake State Natural Area is incredibly stunning, yet not that many people know about it! Enjoy the solitude as you conquer scenic trails, go paddleboarding or windsurfing on Floras Lake, or spend some time beachcombing along the sandy shoreline.

• Spend the day at Sisters Rock State Park . This is one of the newer Oregon state parks, and it does a great job of showcasing the best of the coast’s beauty. All the usual suspects are here, including towering sea stacks, hidden sea coves, and of course, miles of scenic trails.

READ MORE: 7 Adventurous Things to Do Around Port Orford

• Tranquil Cottage
• Whimsy by the Sea
• Vintage Beach Cottage

Campgrounds: Camp Blanco RV Park | Elk River Campground

16. Gold Beach

Maybe you’re planning on extending your road trip further south into California. Or perhaps you’ve heard lore of the unique things to do in southern Oregon . Either way, Gold Beach is the golden ticket.

Not too far from the Oregon-California border, this incredible Oregon coast town boasts a host of perks that you won’t find in many of the state’s other beach towns: warmer weather, vast dunes, and the mighty Rogue River.

There are plenty of awesome outdoor activities on offer in Golden Beach, and whether you’re looking for adventurous pursuits or a relaxing getaway, this southerly coast town will not disappoint.

• Hunt for treasure at Gold Beach. Channel your inner pirate and search for gold along Gold Beach. Okay, there’s probably not actually any gold, but this spot is known for its treasure hunts. Visitors are welcome to eagerly hunt for picturesque glass floats all along the 2.5 miles of beach, with a few also hidden within the many shops in the town.
• Jet Boat the Rogue River . Jet boating a coastal river like the Rogue is an adventure you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in Oregon. You’ll whiz by plenty of lush coastal forest scenery along the way, and we haven’t heard of anyone who’s regretted this trip.

• Enjoy Scenic Views Along Cape Sebastian & Mouth of Pistol River . The Cape Sebastian Trail, located just a few minutes south of Gold Beach itself, is one of the most rewarding hikes on the Oregon Coast. The 3-mile trail consistently delivers panoramic views of Cape Sebastian and the Pacific before making a final descent to a picturesque beach.
• Check out Sam H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. While you’re in the area, check out Samuel H Boardman , one of the most popular hiking areas along the coast. This stunning spot features vistas of sea stacks sprinkled along the coastlines and the rushing tides hitting the cliffside.

• Book a charter boat and go salmon fishing. Because of the presence of the Rogue, Gold Beach is an Oregon Coast icon when it comes to fishing. The river gets strong salmon and steelhead runs, and it’s somewhat of a landmark for anglers across the entire state. There are plenty of charters in Gold Beach , and the type of fishing you’ll do will depend on the time of year.

READ MORE: 15 Adventurous Things To Do Around Gold Beach

Places to Stay Near Gold Beach:

• Gold Beach Country Cottage
• Gold Beach Apartment
• Sunny Cabin on the Rogue River

Campgrounds: Indian Creek Campground | Rogue Pacific RV Park & Vacation Rentals

17. Brookings

If I had to guess, I’d say that Brookings probably isn’t on your Oregon Coast bucket list. Heck, most Oregon natives don’t know that much about it!

This is the state’s southernmost town, and it has somewhat of a mysterious quality to it. Because it’s so far from Portland (and most other major cities in Oregon, for that matter), it doesn’t get discussed very often.

But Brookings is an absolute gem, and it shouldn’t be overlooked by any adventurer serious about exploring all that the Oregon Coast has to offer.

Brookings offers unique scenery and generally warmer temperatures than some of the coastal towns further north, and there’s plenty to do here.

• Hike and Relax at Chetco Point Park. An oceanside park offering trails, picnic tables, and scenic ocean views, Chetco Point Park is one of our favorite adventuring opportunities in Brookings. It’s always a pleasure to revel in the southern Oregon Coast scenery, and Chetco Point Park is one of the best places to do just that.

• Hike the Harris Beach Trail. Harris Beach State Park is one of the most popular attractions in Brookings, and for good reason. From ocean views and picnic areas to mountain bike trails and brimming tide pools, it offers just about anything anyone could possibly want from the Oregon Coast.

• See Redwoods. Redwoods? In Oregon? Who knew?! A lot of people associate redwoods with California. But you can also see Redwoods in Oregon if you journey far enough into the southern part of the state. There are several trails on the outskirts of Brookings that boast Redwoods, and they’re all pretty short and easy!

• Admire the views at Lone Ranch Beach. The driftwood-strewn beach isn’t the best place for working on a suntan, but there are some great views to be found here. Hike along the coastal trails to find some of the best viewpoints.
• Hop over to California. If you’ve got the time, keep heading south on Highway 101 and take a road trip through northern Cali . Obviously, Oregon is for adventure, but there’s no denying that northern California holds some great gems too! You’ll hit Crescent City first, which is just about 30 minutes south of Brookings.

READ MORE: 7 Adventurous Things to do in Brookings, Oregon

Places to Stay Near Brookings:

• Tanbark Shores Guest Suite
• Captain’s Quarters
• Sunlight Cottage

Campgrounds: Harris Beach State Recreation Area Campground | Driftwood RV Park

It’s no surprise that Oregon’s coastal towns are considered some of the most spectacular in the country.

Intriguing cultural and food scenes, along with the limitless supply of outdoor adventures, are what make the Oregon Coast so special. It’s a paradise for outdoor adventure lovers, and you’ll likely not see some of the same scenery anywhere else.

If you’re planning an extended trip out to the Oregon Coast or are just trying to find a new beach for the weekend, the towns listed here provide the absolute best adventure opportunities and scenery that the dramatic Oregon Coast has to offer.

Explore a beach or three, and have fun doing it!

If you need more help planning your trip here, our Oregon Coast road trip post will help you do exactly that. We have sample itineraries and maps for you to steal too! And these are our favorite Oregon coast hikes too.

More Oregon Coast Towns

  Check out more of what  Oregon’s coast  has to offer and see what other  adventures Oregon  has for you to discover.

Oregon native and explorer at heart. Loves tackling expeditions around the world and drinking a good beer at the end of the day. PNW obsessed, VW nerd, and surf or snow riding fanatic.

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Portland and beyond: 8 of the best places to visit in Oregon

Apr 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Here are the unmissable places to visit in Oregon © Francesco Vaninetti Photo / Getty Images

Although many people think of Oregon as one big forest — or equate the Pacific Northwest  with Portland , its unabashedly weirdest and biggest city — this massive state offers so much more.

Whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventure, or more into food and wine, you’ll find plenty to experience in Oregon. Here's our guide to the best places to go and why you should spend your time there.

1. Portland

Best place for foodies

Portland is most people’s introduction to Oregon, and as the largest (and quirkiest) city in the state, it’s got plenty to see and do. It’s where you’ll find the state’s best museums and public parks, and the celebrated  Powell’s City of Books is located right in the heart of the city. Portland is also a nationally recognized culinary hub, and plenty of people travel to the City of Roses with one activity in mind: eating. While it is known for its street food scene, with hundreds of  food carts all around town, Portland also has a swankier side, with high-end restaurants such as the James Beard Award-winning Haitian spot  kann drawing in visitors from across the USA and beyond.

Insider tip: If you’re planning a food trip to Portland, be aware that many local restaurants are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2. The Oregon Coast

Best place for scenic drives

Another one of Oregon’s particularly gorgeous areas, the Oregon Coast is not your average beach destination. Throw out all notions of long days lounging on hot sands and instead embrace the opportunity to enjoy nearly 400 miles of public-access coastline fringed with massive cliffs topped with windswept conifers and huge expanses of sand virtually devoid of loungers and tawdry beach cafes. Nature and scenery are the big draws here, with numerous natural areas and state parks – including the  Cape Perpetua Scenic Area and  Humbug Mountain State Park – enticing hikers and campers.

Planning tip: While you can theoretically drive the Oregon Coast in a day, it’s wise to give yourself a bit more time to explore. This is a region that merits slow drives and lots of extra time to pull over and take in the scenery.

Ready to plan your trip to Oregon? Here are the best things to do while you're there

3. The Columbia River Gorge

Best place for hikers

While it would be unfair to say that one part of Oregon is the most scenic, the  Columbia River Gorge is definitely up there. Straddling both the Oregon and  Washington sides of the Columbia River (which forms a partial border between the two states), the Gorge as it’s affectionately shortened to, is a fantastic place for day hikes, and most trailheads are within a 30- to 45-minute drive from downtown Portland. Even if you aren’t feeling like exerting much energy, it’s worth visiting to check out Multnomah Falls (the highest waterfall in the state) or to take in the views from the  Vista House , a rest area built in the art nouveau style.

Planning tip: Summer weekends in the Gorge get incredibly crowded and are best avoided if possible. If you don’t have any other options, arrive as early as you can to make sure you can at least snag a parking spot.

Best place for runners and cyclists

Nicknamed “Track Town USA,” Eugene is considered a de facto capital of track and field, and it hosts numerous running events, particularly in the summer. It’s also a great place for more casual joggers, with numerous trails and a mix of hilly and flat terrain. Cyclists will find that the college city’s numerous bike lanes – including the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Trail System, which runs through sprawling  Alton Baker Park – make it easy to get around town on two wheels.

5. The Willamette Valley

Best place for wine lovers

You don’t need to venture to  France or  Italy  — or even to California’s  Napa Valley  — to immerse yourself in all things viticulture. Oregon’s  Willamette Valley is among the best places to go wine tasting in the country. This region, which runs from just south of Portland all the way to Eugene, has all the trappings of a postcard-perfect wine destination, complete with rolling hills covered with vine plantings, lovely bistros, and loads of comfy-cozy bed and breakfasts. Best of all, tasting fees tend to be a little lower than in some other parts of the country, and are typically waived if you buy a couple of bottles or more.

Planning tip: Visit in the late summer for great weather and to see grapes on the vines. If you do end up coming during the harvest season (usually in September and October) expect some delays due to slow-moving farm equipment on country roads.

Best place for all-weather adventurers

The Central Oregon city of  Bend is a magnet for outdoorsy folk, and its position east of the Cascade Mountains means that the climate is a bit drier and sunnier than what you’ll find in the western reaches of the state. Bend draws in skiers and snowboarders in the winter due to its proximity to Mt Bachelor, but it’s a particularly great base for summertime adventures. Popular activities range from rafting the Deschutes River to setting off on backpacking adventures in the  Three Sisters Wilderness . Bend is also just a short drive from  Smith Rock , one of the top destinations in the state for rock climbing.

Time your visit to Oregon just right with our seasonal guide

7. Crater Lake National Park  

Best place for lake lovers

Protecting the deepest lake in the country,  Crater Lake National Park is the only national park in Oregon. It's worth taking a boat ride out to  Wizard Island , a cinder cone islet in the center of the caldera, and going for a spin  along Rim Drive, a 33-mile loop that offers motorists (and cyclists) the chance to see Crater Lake from every angle. For particularly great views of the lake and the woods that surround us, take the 3.4-mile hike up to the top of Garfield Peak, accessible via a trailhead at the park's Rim Village.

Planning tip: Crater Lake National Park is incredibly popular, and campsites and lodging at the park fill up well in advance, so book as early as you can. If you can’t secure a spot, nearby Diamond Lake is a good alternative and is within an easy drive of the national park.

Best place for theater fans

A short drive from the  California border, the  Southern Oregon city of Ashland’s biggest claim to fame is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, a theater company that’s been presenting the works of the Bard himself since launching back in 1935. The season lasts for most of the year, taking a break in the cooler winter months, and features a solid annual lineup of Shakespeare’s classics along with a smattering of plays from other playwrights.

This article was first published December 2021 and updated April 2024

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Oregon (OR) » 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Oregon

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Oregon

Right in the heart of the United States’ Pacific Northwest, Oregon has it all: mountains and a gorgeous Pacific Ocean coastline, coupled with sophistication and culture in Portland and charming, relaxed town life in the colorful and friendly towns that dot the coast and interior. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike, Oregon never ceases to impress with its arts scene, nature or microbrewery industry. Get off the highway and explore the small town charm entirely unique to this part of the country.

Lets explore the best towns to visit in Oregon :

1. Ashland, Oregon

Ashland is a picturesque town in the Rogue Valley (what a great name!) right across from the California border. Originally inhabited by the Shasta people, Hudson Bay Company trappers discovered it when passing through via the Siskiyou Trail. Later, the Rogue Valley was settled thanks to the Donation Land Act. Ashland survives the Rogue River Wars clashes between settlers and the Native Americans, and thrives today as a relaxed artsy community.

Make some time to experience town life and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Rogue Valley. While here, browse the many galleries and shops that Ashland is so famous for, such as Gathering Glass Studio or Illahe Studios and Gallery. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is also hosted in town and is a very popular local festival.  Pamper yourself at the Blue Giraffe Spa or enjoy a tasting at the Grizzly Peak Winery. Ashland Creek Inn is nearby and is a perfect place to spend a few nights and relax while staying in Ashland.

2. Astoria, Oregon

Right at the mouth of the Columbia River you’ll find Astoria, the county seat of Clatsop County. John Astor of the American Fur Company founded Fort Astoria, and the town was subsequently formed around this and named after him. Lewis and Clark even spent some time at Fort Clatsop, just south of modern day Astoria.

Come to Astoria to retrace the steps through history of the exploration of the Pacific Northwest. You can spend some time at the Lewis and Clark National and State Historic Parks or the Heritage Museum. Hike up to Young River Falls and be sure to bring your camera! Stop in for a glass at Pilot House Distilling or check in at Cannery Pier Hotel and enjoy its stunning views of the Columbia River. Enjoy the solitude and let the closeness to nature give you a much needed break from city noise and life.

3. Klamath Falls, Oregon

Klamath Falls is located in Klamath County and was originally called Linkville, after the nearby Link River. The region had been previously inhabited by the Klamath and Modoc Native American tribes for several thousand years before the Europeans arrived. Following their arrival, the Klamath Basin became part of the Oregon Trail.

The town is nestled in some gorgeous nature – take a hike out on the OC&E Woods Line State Trail or along the Link River. Take a boat out on the lake or put on your walking shoes and explore the Sky Lakes Trail. Enjoy a delicious meal at Rooster’s Steak and Chop House, or have a drink at the Creamery Brew Pub & Grill. You’ll want to extend your stay and check in to Thompson’s Bed and Breakfast.

4. Baker City, Oregon

Baker City is the county seat of Baker County and named after Edward Baker, known for being the only US Senator ever killed in military combat. He perished while leading a Union charge at the battle of Ball’s Bluff during the Civil War. Despite that depressing fact, the town thrived once the railroad arrived and continues to draw visitors to this day.

Stopover in Baker City and learn about the Oregon Trail at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, or take the Fall Colors Tour at the Baker Heritage Museum if you’re there in the fall. Visit the Sumpter Valley Railway or have a pint at the Baker City Brewing Company. Enjoy the yummy beer this town has to offer: you can even compare brews from the local pubs like Idle Hour Tavern and Barley Brown’s Brew Pub to determine who has the best pint! You can always sleep it off at A Beaten Path Bed and Breakfast before continuing on your way responsibly the next day.

5. Brownsville, Oregon

Brownsville is a town in Linn County, and was formerly named Calapooya after the Kalapuya Native Americans from that region. Set along the Calapooia River, the local Spaulding School was the first original county courthouse in Linn County. Now, the town enjoys fame from being the shooting location for the popular film, Stand by Me, and even has a local day dedicated to it – July 23.

Come out here for a perfection opportunity to disconnect and enjoy reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re out in the backwoods exploring like the heroes of Stand by Me or in town, you’ll find plenty of ways to occupy yourself. Enjoy a selection of local wines at Harpers Wine House or have a drink at Brownsville Saloon and enjoy your time off.

6. Cottage Grove, Oregon

Cottage Grove is located in Lane County, right off Interstate 5. Home to a station for the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1870s, the town was split over a few colorful local disputes regarding locations of the post office and naming conventions of Cottage Grove vs. Lemati (A Chinook word for mountain). Finally, peace was restored to the region and the split towns consolidated to all be named “Cottage Grove”.

The town retains this unique character and culture- it is known as the “Covered Bridge Capital” of Oregon since it has six covered bridges and has dedicated a festival to them! One bridge in particular, the Chambers Railroad Bridge, is famous for being the only existing covered railroad bridge west of the Mississippi River. You can also attend the Bohemia Mining Days festival or tour the local murals located throughout downtown. Relax at Village Green Resorts and treat yourself to some time away from the city.

7. Florence, Oregon

While not the same as the lovely Italian city that shares its name, Florence, located in Lane County, is not without its own charm. Boasting a beautiful coastline along the Pacific Ocean and on the banks of the Siuslaw River, the origin of the town name is still disputed by locals – some say the town was named after a senator, A. Florence, and others say it was named after a French vessel that shipwrecked at the mouth of the Siuslaw

Leaving the origin of its name aside, Florence is a perfect place to get off the highway and breathe in some fresh ocean air. Explore the Sea Lion Caves, a sea cave that is home all year around to Steller Sea Lions. Also don’t miss the Rhododendron Festival Florence, a festival famous since 1908. Walk out to the Heceta Head Lighthouse or across the historic Siuslaw River Bridge, or follow Frodo along the Hobbit Trail! If you’re up for a challenge, head over to the John Dellenback Dunes Trail and remember to bring your camera to capture the views.

8. Hood River, Oregon

Hood River is a port town on the Columbia River, but is actually named after the nearby Hood River. This town was established in the late 1800s and is in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. A true nature paradise, the town has a moderate climate, experiencing less rain than in other areas of Oregon.

Check out the Columbia River Gorge while you are here, and drive out to Mount Hood – the views are spectacular. Have a glass (or two!) at Marchesi Vineyards, or if you’re feeling slightly more adventurous, try the wine at the Naked Winery. If you’re a beer lover, the Full Sail Brewing Company tour might be just the thing for you! Eat, drink and be merry at Solstice Wood Fire Cafe & Bar before retiring for the night at the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel.

9. Jacksonville, Oregon

Jacksonville is located just west of Medford, in Jackson County. It is named after the creek that runs through the town, Jackson Creek. It was also one of the first gold claims in the area, and now the Jacksonville Historic District is designated a National Historic Landmark. The town grew up around the gold rush and was home to Oregon’s first Chinatown when immigrants from San Francisco journeyed north and settled here.

Come visit Jacksonville today and you’ll feel like you walked right back into the 19th century – many of the buildings have been nicely preserved and await your exploration.  Wander and shop at Jacksonville Mercantile, or appreciate its quirky buildings and old-time phone booths that dot the town. Check in at the Touvelle House Bed and Breakfast and prepare to relax and be merry. There are also many delicious restaurants awaiting your exploration. We recommend the Mustard Seed Cafe or Deja Vu Bistro.

10. Joseph, Oregon

Located in Wallowa County, Joseph was named after Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce people. Founded in 1883, the community was based primarily in agriculture and stock. The railroad brought more business and lumber mills to Joseph in the early 1900s, but now the town relies more on bronze foundries and tourism.

Come visit this town and check out the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo in July, or Bronze Blues and Brews in August. Also in keeping true with the regional reputation of “Oregon’s Little Switzerland”, they hold a Swiss-Bavarian festival resembling an Oktoberfest, but with yodeling and alphorn! You should also explore the gorgeous nature around Wallowa Lake State Park or take the tram up to enjoy the view. Put your feet up at Bronze Antler Bed & Breakfast and enjoy this retreat back to nature.

11. Sisters, Oregon

Located in Deschutes County, Sisters was originally called Camp Polk and was a military post in the late 1800s. Established to address violence in the area resulting from western settlers clashing with the Native Americans, troops were stationed here briefly until they determined that the threat was over. The name was changed to Sisters at this point after the Three Sisters Mountains that bordered it on the west.

Come to this relaxed town and explore the beautiful nature that surrounds it. Hike the McKenzie Pass or up to Sahalie and Koosah Falls. Kayak on Clear Lake or ski at Hoodoo Ski Area in the winter! You can also stay in town and pamper yourself at Shibui Spa. Unwind at Five Pine Lodge and Spa and enjoy a cup of coffee at Sisters Coffee Company!

12. Yachats, Oregon

Yachats is a small coastal town in Lincoln County. Inhabited for 1500 years by Native Americans before white settlers arrived, Yachats is rich in history and archeological remains from those ethnic groups. The indigenous community that resided there once the settlers arrived were forcibly relocated by the army to make space for settlers at Coos Bay, and there is trail dedicated outside of town called Amanda’s Trail, after a blind Native American woman who was a part of this forced relocation.

While this sad history is long behind them, you should take some time to walk along Amanda’s Trail or visit the Little Log Church Museum. You can also enjoy the great views along Yachats coastline or visit Yachats State Park. Walk across the North Fork Yachats Covered Bridge and don’t forget your camera. Unwind at the Wine Place and treat yourself to some luxurious comfort at Overleaf Lodge and Spa, or some delicious seafood at Luna Sea Fish House.

13. Newport, Oregon

Newport is located in Lincoln County, and literally is right on 101 – the highway runs through town. A coastal town that was established in 1882, Newport is the base for National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration research ships and the Hatfield Marine Science Center. Come visit if you’re an ocean enthusiast or just want to hear the sound of the waves crashing into the Pacific Ocean shoreline.

Explore Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area – the tide pools are worth some of your time. You can also be a marine biologist for a day as you wander Hatfield Marine Science Center or the Oregon Coast Aquarium! Spend some time at the Newport Historic Bayfront and have some great seafood at Local Ocean’s Seafoods. Watch the sunset from your room at Hallmark Resort and recharge for a few days.

14. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is located in Clatsop County. William Clark was the first American to reach this area, and was one of the leaders of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He was exploring during the winter the group passed at Fort Clatsop and came to a viewpoint now called “Clark’s Point of View” to see a “boundless ocean”. That spot is now Cannon Beach, and is the site where Clark and Sacagawea bartered for whale blubber from the native Tillamook people.

If you visit Cannon Beach now, you can see a wooden whale sculpture that commemorates the trade between the Tillamook and Clark. Also, if you stop by in June, you might be in time to compete in their sand-castle building contest! Tour the galleries in town or walk out to Haystack Rock and visit the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Taste the rum at Cannon Beach Distillery and continue relaxing at Stephanie Inn. You’ll find yourself just as enchanted as Clark was when he first arrived.

15. Tillamook, Oregon

Tillamook is the county seat of Tillamook County, and located on Tillamook Bay. Named after the Tillamook people, who were the original inhabitants of the area, the town established itself with its dairy farms and cattle. If the name sounds familiar, you’re thinking of Tillamook cheese and their delicious dairy products that helped make the town famous!

Visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and enjoy the taste-testing! You can sleep off the food coma at Cape Lookout State Park’s beaches or walk it off at the Wildlife Refuge at Cape Meares Lighthouse. Don’t miss the Munson Creek Falls. You can always rest and relax over a drink at Pelican Brewery & Tap Room once you’re back in town, or have a delicious meal at Old Oregon Smokehouse. Stay a few nights and relax at the Ashley Inn of Tillamook.

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Oregon:

• Ashland, Oregon
• Astoria, Oregon
• Klamath Falls, Oregon
• Baker City, Oregon
• Brownsville, Oregon
• Cottage Grove, Oregon
• Florence, Oregon
• Hood River, Oregon
• Jacksonville, Oregon
• Joseph, Oregon
• Sisters, Oregon
• Yachats, Oregon
• Newport, Oregon
• Cannon Beach, Oregon
• Tillamook, Oregon

Things To Do In Oregon

1. Visit Crater Lake National park

Crater Lake is truly awe-inspiring and is the deepest lake in the entire United States. Crater Lake formed when an eruption triggered the collapse of what was a tall peak over 7,700 years ago. This natural wonder, its deep blue waters and location atop the Cascade Mountain Range offer spectators, artists, and photographers alike ample opportunity within its park boundaries. Click on the link to learn more about Crater Lake National Park . 

2. Visit the Oregon Coast

Oregon’s coastline is roughly 363 miles of unmatched beauty. Better yet? All of our beaches are free and public thanks to a trailblazing beach bill passed in 1967. With so much diversity along our coastline, it can be overwhelming to choose just one place to visit. Check out the southern coast for more secluded beaches and slower paced towns, or head up to the central and northern coast where tourists flock by the 100,000’s every summer. Wherever you go, you are sure to be mesmerized by the mighty Pacific Ocean and the towns scattered along its shores. Below we’ve listed a few of our personal favorite towns to checkout along the Oregon coast. If you’re looking for even more Oregon Coast adventure ideas, then read our blog Top 10 Things To Do On The Oregon Coast .

Astoria Oregon  is the oldest town west of the Rockies, Astoria is chock-full of history, art, and craft beverages. Historically a fishing town, it lies on the edge of the Columbia River right where it meets the Pacific Ocean. The bar, known as “The Graveyard of The Pacific” is so notorious that a licensed bar pilot has to navigate boats across it and the T.V. show Ghost Adventures has an entire episode dedicated to it (Astoria alone has a 4-part special dedicated to its spooky past and haunted underground.)  Named the 2nd “drunkest” city in Oregon thanks to their unusually high number of bars per capita, they have a great selection of craft breweries you won’t want to miss.

The epitome of an Oregon beach vacation destination, Seaside Oregon is one of the coast’s most popular towns thanks to its abundance of family-friendly features. The popular downtown street, Broadway, leads to what is called the “turn-around.” It is essentially a turnaround at the end of downtown the stretches onto the beach allowing traffic to be redirected, and a place for people to hangout and watch the action around them. It also lies in the center of “The Prom” – a 1.5 mile paved walkway that stretches along the beach granting walkers, runners, bikers, and skaters a place to stretch their legs and take in some ocean views while they’re at it. Downtown is full of rides, attractions, shops, and restaurants that anyone in the family can enjoy. Are you interested in learning more about Seaside? Check out the Top Things To Do In Seaside Oregon . 

Newport Oregon  is home to the Oregon Coast Aquarium and is one of the most popular aquariums in the state. Hosting unique, interactive exhibits this place is usually packed with families and visitors alike. Also home to two of Oregon’s most prominent historical lighthouses, there is no shortage of Instagram worthy photo-ops here. Newer additions to the area include OMSI’s Coastal Discovery Center or Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum and wax figure display. Complete with over 80 restaurants in its 11 sq miles of land, they have enough culinary and beverage diversity to accommodate most, if not all, palettes.

3. Visit Downtown Portland

We like to say that you can, be, eat, or drink just about anything in Portland. Their unofficial slogan “Keep Portland Weird” is an ode to the cities mission to promote individuality, self-expression, and because the city is what is considered a hub for “atypical” lifestyle choices, art, style, and more. Downtown Portland is home to the beautiful Tom McCall waterfront, Portland’s “living room” Pioneer Square, and more shops, restaurants, breweries, and galleries than we can count. Downtown Portland also hosts hundreds of events throughout the entire year so a trip to downtown Portland is sure to be a full (and fun!) one. Checkout the Top 25 Things to Do in Portland Oregon . 

4. Visit Smith Rock State Park

Dubbed one of Oregon’s “7 Wonders,” Smith Rock State Park attracts climbers and spectators from all across the globe with its jagged basalt rock cliffs. Situated in Central Oregon , Smith Rock State Park sees about 300 days of sunshine annually, making this one of the most popular state parks in Oregon. Surrounded by Mt. Bachelor, vast nature and wildlife, and ample recreational activities, Smith Rock and surrounding areas are one of our favorite spots in the entire state of Oregon. It can get pretty crowded between rock climbers, mountain bikers, hikers, and spectators but is definitely worth a visit if you ever find yourself in Oregon. If you’d like to learn more about Smith Rock and Central Oregon then visit our blog Top Things to Do In Central Oregon . 

5.Visit Silver Falls State Park

6. Visit the Rogue Valley

7. Visit OMSI 

8. Attend an Event at Autzen Stadium

9. Attend a Home Team Sporting Event

10. Visit Mt Hood and The Columbia River Gorge 

Bonus things to do in oregon:, ➡ visit any of our state parks .

Did you know Oregon has 255 State Parks? Oregon has one of the most popular state park systems in the entire country and services over 46 million daytime visitors, and well over 2.5 million campers. 58 of our state parks allow camping – check out our Oregon Camping Guide  or learn more about  Oregon Coast Campgrounds . 

➡ Visit The Columbia River Maritime Museum

Take a roadtrip on one, or multiple of our scenic byways , ➡ visit enchanted forest  , ➡ go beer or wine tasting .

Featured Oregon Articles

The Top 10 Best Wineries In Oregon

Top 10 Things To Do On The Oregon Coast

Top 12 Dog Friendly Beaches In Oregon

Top 10 Fun Things To Do in Seaside Oregon

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20 Incredible Places to Visit in Oregon With Kids

The state of Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest region on the west coast of the USA , is known for its vast and beautiful landscapes, with the state laying claim to 11 national forests, 21 national wildlife refuges, and over 360 state parks.

We’re not going to deny it, it’s one of our favourite places in the world for seeking out outdoor adventures with kids – even the more reluctant!

If you are looking for ideas for the perfect Oregon family vacation, look no further. There is something for everyone; Oregon has it all, whether you want a summer beach break, a winter skiing vacation , a picturesque nature getaway, or a bustling city escape. 

Here is our selection of top things to do in Oregon with kids (+ keep reading below we set out our suggested itinerary on how to tackle them all on a circular Oregon road trip!)

Best time to visit Oregon

1. spend time in the city of portland, 2. take in the awe-inspiring sight of thor’s well, 3. visit the painted hills in john day fossil beds national monument .

• 4.  Admire haystack Rock on Canon Beach

5.  Float Down the Deschutes River in Bend

6. spend a day at the columbia river gorge, 7. partake in winter sports at mount hood, 8.  experience the beautiful waterfalls in silver falls state park, 9. family fun in oregon dunes national recreation area, 10. relax at seaside, 11. whale watch in newport , 12. ride horses on the beach in bandon, 13. spend a summer’s day at devils lake, 14. raft along the rogue river, 15. take a trip to the oregon coast aquarium, 16. admire the sealions at sealion cave, 17. witness devils punchbowl at work, 18. explore underground at oregon caves, 19. take a snap with the wreck of peter iredale, 20. capture the natural beauty of crater lake, how to tackle the highlights of oregon on a family road trip, this post is part of our series discover the usa.

Before we jump into the best places to visit in Oregon, let’s talk about the best time to visit weather-wise. Although Oregon may be famous for its grey skies and mild temperatures, the weather can be surprisingly varied depending on what part of the state you visit. 

Southwestern Oregon has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers that can reach over 100°F.

The North and Northeastern areas have very cold and snowy winters, so it is recommended to go during the summer months for sightseeing, though the winter months also hold something special for snow sports enthusiasts.

The best month for visiting the coast is usually September. Winds from the Pacific Ocean keep beaches cool, so be sure to bring a sweater or a light jacket for nighttime and when out exploring, even in the summer months. The rainy season is between October and May, but there are occasional wet summers; basically, be prepared for wet weather whenever you visit!

The best time to visit Portland is during the summer months; it’s a great place to visit in June through to August, when the temperatures are warmer and there is less rainfall. Winter is the cheapest time to visit; cooler temperatures and rain deter many visitors.  

Best Places to Visit In Oregon With Kids

For anyone flying into Oregon, your journey will almost certainly start in Oregon’s largest city, Portland. Portland is a wonderful city to live in because of its peaceful parks, impressive bridges, amazing coffee, and culturally diverse food scene. A thriving art and music scene, with pop-ups and regular festivals, attracts locals and visitors alike.

We recommend having a look at what exciting events are going on before visiting!

Other family-friendly activities in Portland include the Oregon Zoo, Oregon Museum of Science & Industry, Oaks Amusement Park, and Portland Japanese Garden. We also recommend the marvellous toy store Finnegan’s Toys and shopping for souvenirs at the Portland Saturday Market.

Also known as the “drainpipe of the Pacific” and the “gaping sinkhole”, Thor’s Well is a must-visit natural wonder on the Oregon coast . The Well is a huge and seemingly bottomless hole in the rock that appears to swallow the seawater around it.

An awe-inspiring site and one of the most amazing things to do in Oregon, but not for the faint of heart! It is best seen about one hour before high tide (though do note, limited parking) for the most spectacular visual effects. If you are worried about younger children getting too close, you can also check out the natural phenomena from a distance using one of the various viewpoints nearby. 

The Painted Hills are one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon and a picturesque and educational outing for all the family in Eastern Oregon. The name is due to the beautifully colored stripes in the soil with bright green, red, orange, and gold colors layering the hillsides. It’s a great outdoor adventure and one of the most popular places to go in Oregon.

The area is a hot spot for paleontological research and is a suitable outing for kids of all ages, with most trails being relatively short and smooth enough even for strollers. It is hot to tackle in the summer, though, and quite isolated compared to other attractions, so do be aware of this when planning your visit and come hiking prepared.

4.  Admire Haystack Rock on Canon Beach

Cannon Beach on the northern Oregon coast is famous for its iconic 235ft sea stack, jutting out into the Pacific Ocean but accessing along the beach at low tide. The nearby town is surrounded by beautiful picture-perfect seaside cottages. Cannon Beach and adjacent Ecola State Park have appeared in several films, including The Goonies, Twilight, and Point Break.

If you’re keen coastal explorers, make time to explore this entire stretch of coast on foot, down to Hug Point (come at low tide!) for more interesting caves and rock formations, plus a small inland creek with easy water access for your junior paddlers and a bit gentler then those wicked Pacific Ocean waves!

The small and charming city of Bend, located on the Deschutes River, Central Oregon, offers great parks, fun shopping, and delicious food. By far the most popular summer activity is to float along the Deschutes, and we wholeheartedly agree that it is one of the most scenic, unique, and enjoyable experiences in the area; there’s nothing quite like drifting down the river with your family on a beautiful sunny day with a cool beverage in hand!

Don’t worry if you don’t have your own tube; there are plenty of places to either rent or purchase fun floats. Once your float is finished, there is plenty more to explore around the quaint and friendly town of Bend, from the Old Mill District to the thriving brewery scene (yes, great with kids!) and an excellent concentration of play parks to boot – this is one of the most family-friendly stops in the state!

Don’t miss our complete family guide to exploring Bend with Kids

The Columbia River Gorge has rightly earned the title of the largest National Scenic Area in the country, with stunning scenery and spectacular landscape extending more than 100 miles east of Portland. It is the perfect Portland day trip destination for water lovers, and we recommend that you and your family take advantage of the Gorge’s steady wind conditions for an exciting day of windsurfing, kite sailing, and other extreme water sports.

For those less adventurous or wanting to stick with dry land, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, including mountain biking, fishing, and hiking.

Columbia River Gorges is also famous for its waterfalls , having the greatest concentration of waterfalls in North America! The most famous and arguably one of the most photographed in North America (aside from Niagra Falls) is Multnomah Falls. Do be aware, though, if you are visiting from May to September, a permit is now required for Multnomah Falls and the “Waterfalls Corridor” of this historic scenic byway.

Oregon’s tallest mountain is a dormant volcano surrounded by a national forest. It’s located about 50 miles east-southeast of Portland, and its eternally snowy peak can be seen from the city itself. Mount Hood has one of the longest ski seasons in the USA, so you and your family can hit the slopes all year round. With some of the most affordable lift tickets in the USA, it is a great ski destination for large families and one of the top things to do in Oregon.

Even if you’re not interested in snow sports, it is still a beautiful destination with stunning scenery, multiple hiking trails, and the famous Timberline Lodge, where the iconic film The Shining was filmed!

For more active and adventurous families, we recommend a trip to Silver Falls, the largest state park in Oregon at 9,200 acres.  The park offers beautiful scenery and family-friendly hikes with spectacular views. Numerous short trails are suitable for young children, although for the really little ones, you’ll want to leave the stroller at home and bring a toddler carrier instead.

There are 10 waterfalls to explore, some of which are easily accessible by car and with parking lots located nearby. (The super-fit may be up for the challenge of the Trail of 10 Waterfalls – couldn’t convince my lot to take on the 8.7-mile loop just yet!).

It is truly an incredible place to visit with the family where you can actually walk beneath the waterfalls for an immersive experience – Our Master J declared it his favourite PNW destination!

Located along the Oregon Coast, you and your family can partake in a range of popular activities on the dunes, including horseback riding and off-road vehicle treks. They form part of Siuslaw National Forest, where you can enjoy also enjoy forests, lakes, campgrounds, hiking trails, and beach recreation.

Seaside is known as the Jewel of the Oregon coast and one of the oldest tourist destinations in the Pacific Northwest. The picturesque beach town is the perfect place to stroll the grand oceanfront Promenade, fly a kite over the ocean, hike, bike, kayak, or just play and relax on the sandy beaches.

The bustling town is full of shops and great restaurants, and a great place to enjoy some freshly caught seafood. The town of Seaside is a place of unique historical significance, so be sure to check out its history when you’re there!

Find our complete guide to exploring Oregon’s coastal towns here

The city of Newport on Oregon’s central coast offers daily Whale watching trips all year round. With one of the largest marine protected parks just outside of Newport Bay, you and your family can observe whales, dolphins, seals, and other incredible mammals in their natural habitat.

The summer and fall months, generally May through November, bring warmer waters and the opportunity to see giant blue whales in the waters. The cooler months of December through April bring grey whales to the area. A truly amazing experience and an exhilarating family getaway.

Bandon, known for its beautiful beaches and rock formations, is located on the Southern Oregon Coast. This quintessential beach town is the perfect place for a laid-back and relaxing vacation. Enjoy year-round fishing, cycling, golf , kayaking, hiking, beach trips, and charming stores and restaurants.

And what better way to enjoy the stunning ocean views than on a peaceful horseback ride along the beach with your family? Don’t miss The Bandon Cranberry Festival, celebrated every fall as the cranberry harvest begins. Similar to Newport, you can also catch whale-watching tours from Bandon.

Devil’s Lake is 685 acres of vivid turquoise-colored waters that separate the northern part of Lincoln City, on the Pacific Coast. The calm waters are unaffected by coastal winds, making it the perfect spot for freshwater fishing, swimming, kayaking, and boating. It is easily the most beautiful lake in all of Oregon and the ideal place to spend a summer’s day with the family.

The lakeside parks also provide a picturesque spot to enjoy a family picnic and take in the local wildlife and stunning lakeside scenery. We recommend renting stand-up paddleboards for a fun family water experience!

Undulating its way over 200 miles from the Cascade Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, the Rogue River offers adventurous families some of Oregon’s most spectacular scenery, both on the water and from nearby hiking trails. Whether you’re looking for a simple taster or up for a multi-day adventure, the Rogue River offers families class II to IV rapid experiences on guided tours.

Fancy taking on zip dip and sip? Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure devised a unique concept alongside Rogue River Rafting and Del Rio Vineyards. Enjoy a great family combo of ziplining adventure through one of the state’s best zipline courses, followed by white water rafting, finished with wine tasting – the perfect Southern Oregon day out!

Newport makes the list again! Visit one of Oregon’s top tourist attractions in the beautiful coastal beach town. This world-class aquarium is devoted to ocean conservation and is a living classroom for ages. Spend the day interacting and engaging with all sorts of sea life at the numerous indoor, outdoor, and underwater exhibits.

Just a few of the aquarium’s resident animals include sharks, otters, seals, and sea lions. Fun fact, the aquarium was home to Keiko , the orca who starred in the classic movie Free Willy.

The Sea Lion Caves are one of the world’s largest sea grottos and the only known mainland rookery of the Stellar sea lion. The caves, found 11 miles north of the town of Florence on Highway 101, are connected by a system of many caves and caverns. Although not a zoo, the caves are privately operated, so an entry fee applies (as of early 2023, $16 USD for adults and $10 for children).

Winter is the best time to view the sea lions inside the cave, whilst in spring and summer, they gravitate to outdoor ledges along the shoreline for breeding and birthing. Be prepared for a bit of climbing, although there is a lift, you will still need to navigate some steps, so ditch the stroller and come prepared for a noisy, smelly nature adventure up close with these magnificent marine animals!

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is just a short diversion off the 101 between Newport and Depoe Bay, one of the more dramatic stops along the Oregon coast. Whilst high tide brings the most spectacular action out of this natural wonder from the viewing points above, it is possible to walk into the cavernous rock formation from the adjacent beach at low tide (though we wouldn’t recommend this with small children, waves can still be unpredictable).

Like much of the Oregon coast, this is another great vantage point for whale spotting from land as whales stop here to feed on the off-shore kelp beds. You may even be lucky to spot some sea lions too!

You can see more on Oregon’s best whale-spotting stops here.

Your little adventurers will love the Marble Halls of Oregon! Oregon Caves National Monument is situated deep beneath the Siskiyou Mountains. The only marble caves to be found in the United States, be fascinated by one of North America’s most complex geological sites.

NPS offers daily ranger-lead Discovery Tours from April to November (weather permitting). They fill up on a first-come-first-served basis; go early in the peak tourist season if you wish to secure a spot, as it’s the only way you’re able to head underground. Note that for safety reasons, the minimum height is 42″ – participants need to be physically fit and be prepared for a big temperature drop!

Found on Clatsop Beach in Fort Stevens, about 4 miles south of Astoria, is the famous Wreck of Peter Iredale. Running aground in 1906, the barnacled remains – although quite small – are one of the most accessible along the Oregon Coast, hence their popularity. The wreck is best seen at low tide, where you can explore inside, but be warned, you’ll share it with dozens of other curious tourists!

Fort Stevens has plenty more on offer for families, though, especially if you enjoy camping. There are more than 3,500 acres of beaches, forests, rivers and mountains, so hiking, biking, and for the brave summer, swimming are all on the card in the most north-westerly point of the state.

NB State Parks in Oregon have a $5 a day parking fee – these can be used at multiple parks in one day, or get yourself an annual pass for $30 – buy online at the Park Store

Surprisingly, the only National Park in Oregon is Crater Lake in southern Oregon. Part of the Cascade Range of volcanoes, Mount Mazama erupted some 7,700 years ago, leaving a deep basin that, over the centuries, has filled with rain and snow, leaving a pristine blue lake, the deepest lake in the United States (1943 feet!) .

Crater Lake National Park is a great park to visit if you have slightly more reluctant walkers, as the 33-mile Rim Drive around the park (open June to October only due to heavy snowfall) circumnavigates the lake closely with dozens of viewing points.

Most viewing stops only require a few steps from your vehicle, though a few more spectacular stops require a slightly longer trail but are well worth it for the views.

Being a National Park, don’t forget to grab your Junior Ranger booklet and earn your badge.

We highly recommend that if you continue onward to northern California, grab your America the Beautiful national parks pass before you set out on your Oregon road trip; the $30 summer entry fee for Crater Lake will be included.

We’ve plotted out all our favourite spots on Google Maps here for you to reference easily.

As you can see, most of Oregon’s most famous attractions lie on the state’s western side. You can complete these in an almost perfect loop – here’s our recommended itinerary:

• Start at Portland, heading north to Astoria & Fort Stevens.
• Spend a week working your way along the highlights of the Oregon Coast and the 101 – a guide to our favourite Oregon Coastal towns to stay in here .
• Cross back to the Rogue River (even dip into Northern California – head as far south on the 101 as Crescent City, then take the 199 into Southern Oregon – this way, you can also experience part of the Redwoods National Park – Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park) – camp here or stay at Grants Pass or Medford.
• Head North East to Crater Lake, then take Route 97 to Bend and Route 26 to Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area before returning to Portland.

The only real outlier is the Painted Hills. You could tackle these as a day trip from Bend (expect about 2 hours each way – it’s a long day) or tackle it separately on a larger PNW road trip, including Boise and Idaho.

You could, at a push, do the whole lot in around a week, but you’ll be pushing hard and fast with no downtime – we’d recommend truly embracing the best of Oregon you’ll want two to three weeks – if not more to settle in and enjoy!

More to come from Oregon & the Pacific North West!

This is just the start of our highlights from visiting the Pacific North West (PNW) we have plenty more articles to come from Oregon, Washington, California & Nevada.

Make sure you bookmark this resource for your future vacation planning in the US!

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

12 Best Places to Visit in Oregon

The tenth largest state in the United States, Oregon exemplifies the beauty and wildness of America’s Pacific Northwest. While there are many cultural venues in Oregon worth exploring, it’s the state’s diverse landscapes that draw many travelers to this corner of the country. From rugged shorelines and thick verdant forests to towering volcanic mountains and steep river gorges, the best places to visit in Oregon are simply breathtaking.

Whether rambling along a rocky beach, strolling through a rose garden in high bloom or hiking up the side of a mountain, visitors will find a broad range of outdoor activities to enjoy in Oregon wherever their travels take them. Amidst its untouched nature you can find lively cities such as Portland, Eugene, and Salem while historic monuments and sites relating to the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition are strung out across the state.

12. Ashland [SEE MAP]

Set in a very scenic spot in the southern part of the state, Ashland is a lovely place to visit that acts as a cultural capital for the surrounding area. While it is most known for hosting the internationally renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the small city has much, much more for guests to discover with history, nature, and nightlife all on offer.

Located in the Rogue Valley, it lies not far from vast forests and twinkling lakes while the majestic Mount Ashland and its snowy peak rises in the distance. Although its natural riches just beg to be explored, the center of town has lots of brilliant galleries and restaurants to try and a lively, youthful feel due to its sizeable student population.

While there are some interesting museums, most come to attend an unforgettable play at one of Ashland’s many theaters. As the Shakespeare Festival runs for nine months, thrilling productions constantly take place alongside lectures, workshops, and readings of the famous playwright’s works.

11. Silver Falls State Park [SEE MAP]

One of Oregon’s prettiest state parks, the phenomenally popular Silver Falls can be found just outside of Salem. Nestled amidst the rolling foothills of the Cascade Range, it has a wealth of wonderful waterfalls as well as some excellent hiking, horseback riding and camping.

Founded back in 1933, the picturesque park encompasses fifteen falls in total and is now the largest protected area in all Oregon. Of these, the 177-foot South Falls is the most visited and photographed with North and Winter Falls also attracting lots of people due to their striking size and splendor.

A great way to see as many of them as possible is to hike along the terrific Trail of Ten Falls Loop which takes you through lush woodlands and winding canyons with sparkling waterfalls wherever you look. Asides from visiting its many falls, you can also camp overnight with playgrounds, picnic areas, and a serene swimming spot to be found amidst the pristine wilderness.

10. Columbia River Gorge [SEE MAP]

Just a few miles east from Portland lies the vast U-shaped corridor known as the Columbia River Gorge. Formed by cataclysmic Ice-Age floods, the miles-wide valley stretches for more than 70 miles (110 km) along the Columbia River on Oregon’s northern border.

Built in the early 1900s, the Historic Columbia River Highway takes visitors past dozen of waterfalls tumbling down the valley’s steep walls. Whether visiting in the autumn when the surrounding forests are draped in fall color or during the spring when wildflowers burst into bloom, the Columbia River Gorge offers spectacular vistas in every season.

9. Wallowa Lake [SEE MAP]

Located in the northeastern corner of Oregon, Wallowa Lake is nestled within the soaring Wallowa Mountains, also known as “The Little Switzerland of America.” The Wallowas were once home to the Nez Perce Indians until Gold Rush prospectors drove them out, and the nearby town of Joseph is named after their famous chief.

A swimming beach, a boat launch and a broad array of cabins and campgrounds make the lake a favorite summer vacation spot for families. Located near Wallowa Lake is an aerial gondola that visitors can ride to the 8,000-foot (2,400 meters) peak of Mount Howard.

8. Yachats [SEE MAP]

Pronounced “yah-hots,” the small town of Yachats is situated at the foot of the 800 foot (250 meter) high Cape Perpetua on the Northern Oregon Coast. The tiny village is a popular destination for travelers who want to enjoy all of the unspoiled beauty that Oregon’s coastline offers, minus the crowds.

Rocky tidal pools and small pocket beaches lie just outside the city’s boundaries, and visitors can often spot gray whales swimming close to shore in the spring. Within the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area above Yachats are 26 miles (42 km) of hiking trails and a public campground.

7. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area [SEE MAP]

Located near the small town of Joseph in northeast Oregon, the Hells Canyon Recreational Area outranks the Grand Canyon when it comes to depth. Parts of the canyon surrounding the Snake River are as deep as 8,000 feet (2,400 meters).

With few paved roads leading into the area, most visitors opt to enter the canyon by jet boat, although some trails are accessible with four-wheel-drive vehicles. Touring the canyon on a whitewater raft is a popular activity. Overnight horseback trips into the canyon are available as well.

6. Mount Hood [SEE MAP]

The tallest peak in Oregon, Mount Hood is much more than just a stunning backdrop for the city of Portland 60 miles (100 km) away. It’s a travel destination that attracts visitors all year long.

Five downhill ski areas and miles of cross-country trails keep the slopes of Mount Hood packed during the winter, and summer snowfall attracts visitors to Mount Hood for off-season skiing as well.

For experienced mountaineers, climbing to the summit of Mount Hood is another popular activity. The historic Timberline Lodge, which was used for exterior shots in the movie “The Shining,” offers great views of the Southern Cascades.

5. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway [SEE MAP]

One of the best ways to experience the beauty and splendor of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains is by touring the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. The 66-mile (106 km) route winds along river valleys, up mountains and past scenic lakes, offering visitors picturesque vistas and an abundance of recreational opportunities along the way.

The route begins in the city of Bend , climbing into forests of ponderosa pine towards Mount Bachelor. Views of lakes formed by ancient lava flows quickly come into view, each offering activities like swimming, fishing or boating. The route ends at the winter resort community of Sunriver.

4. Astoria [SEE MAP]

The historic city of Astoria lies just a few miles southwest of the spot where explorers Lewis and Clark spent the winter of 1805-06 before returning to the East. Five years later, John Jacob Astor founded Astoria, making it the first United States settlement on the West Coast.

Situated at the mouth of the Columbia River, the city’s backdrop is the scenic Astoria-Megler Bridge, the country’s longest continuous truss bridge. Attractions in Astoria include the wave-shaped Columbia River Maritime Museum, which features 30,000 artifacts of the Pacific Northwest’s seafaring history. The region’s unique Victorian architecture is best represented by the multicolored Flavel House built during the 1880s.

The city of 10,000 people is popular with seasonal sports fishermen, with fishermen coming from Alaska and throughout the Pacific Northwest for the annual Fisher Poets Gathering. Dominating the city’s skyline is the Astor Column; it’s a steep climb to the top but the view is worth it. Astoria also is the western end of the 4,250-mile coast-to-coast TransAmerica Bicycle Trail.

3. Portland [SEE MAP]

Oregon’s largest city straddles the Willamette River near the point where it meets the mighty Columbia. With Mount Hood in the distance and the Pacific Ocean just a short drive away, Portland is surrounded by natural beauty, and it’s clear by the sheer number of parks, gardens and green spaces in Portland how much the city’s inhabitants value the outdoor life.

The city’s ever-changing dining, music and art scenes are worth experiencing, and visits to the city’s quirky museums are fun too, but for many visitors, it’s venues like Forest Park and the International Rose Garden that make “The City of Roses” one of the best places to visit in Oregon.

2. Crater Lake National Park [SEE MAP]

The most popular natural attraction in Southern Oregon, Crater Lake is what remains of a volcanic eruption that occurred on Mount Mazama 7,700 years ago. With a depth of nearly 2,000 feet, (600 meters) it’s the deepest lake in the United States, and its tranquil sapphire-blue waters are a sight to behold.

With 90 miles (150 km) of trails winding through the national park, the area is a hiker’s paradise. The 33 mile (53 km) long Rim Drive offers less adventurous visitors many scenic overlooks. A guided boat tour of the lake and its central island is a must.

1. Cannon Beach [SEE MAP]

Named after a cannon that washed ashore after a shipwreck, Cannon Beach is one of the most popular of the seaside resorts that stretch along Oregon’s 300 mile (480 km) long coast.

Located around 80 miles (130 km) to the west of Portland, the once-rustic artist community has grown into an upscale resort filled with restaurants, boutique shops and art galleries. In-town attractions include the Cannon Beach History Center, which features an authentic reproduction of a Native American longhouse.

The most striking feature about the beach itself is the 235 foot (72 meter) high Haystack Rock, the largest of the monolithic rocks that dot the sandy shoreline and provide a nesting ground for sea birds. To the north of Cannon Beach is Ecola State Park which offers a multitude of hiking trails of all levels and some of the most stunning Oregon Coast views anywhere.

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Reader interactions.

July 10, 2016 at 11:28 pm

How can toketee falls not make the list? This is a must

June 28, 2016 at 9:24 pm

I am planning to visit Oregon including Portland .Your selection of sites and tips are very useful.

April 7, 2016 at 7:35 am

Wow, Crater Lake looks beautiful! I’ve always heard about it but now that I’m traveling to Oregon I might actually get to see it! I’m trying to find the best places to stay on southern Oregon coast and I would just love to find something close to this area! Thanks for listing all of these cool things I should see on my trip!

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15 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Oregon

Written by Brad Lane Updated Oct 14, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Oregon is stacked with amazing weekend getaways. From romantic retreats to family destinations and outdoor adventures, the many landscapes across the state offer a wide variety of weekend activities.

A few suggested weekend itineraries include ancient calderas, locally owned restaurants, and any number of the top things to do on the Oregon coast . Other awesome places to visit include glacier-fed mountain meadows, historic downtown districts, and influential Oregon cities that help define the Pacific Northwest's culture.

While a weekend works, some places, like Cannon Beach and the Columbia River Gorge, deserve much more time. Other attractions like the McKenzie River offer multiple outlets of excitement, including hot springs and hiking trails. Plan your next adventure with our list of the best weekend getaways in Oregon.

1. Crater Lake National Park

2. cannon beach, 3. portland, 4. mount hood, 6. columbia river gorge, 9. hood river, 10. newport, 11. mckenzie river, 12. depoe bay, 14. samuel h. boardman state scenic corridor, map of weekend getaways in oregon.

Crater Lake is the state's only national park, and it's one of the most unique and beautiful natural attractions in Oregon . This ancient caldera is nearly six miles in diameter and is the remnants of Mount Mazama erupting over 7,000 years ago.

Crater Lake is the deepest natural lake in the country , fed only by rainwater and snowmelt, resulting in a stunning aquamarine color and one of the prettiest landscapes in the country.

The view from the Crater Lake rim is breathtakingly beautiful. The Discovery Point trail here earns the status as one of the best hiking trails in Oregon with constant caldera views. Other ways to tour the crater's edge include driving along Rim Drive , where plenty of parking areas provide panoramic views. A trolley tour on Rim Drive is available throughout the summer.

Visitors can also swim in the icy-cold waters of Crater Lake by hiking to Cleetwood Cove on the north rim. Cleetwood is also home to a boat dock where ferries depart to explore the sole island in Crater Lake — Wizard Island.

The night sky is remarkable at Crater Lake, revealing the Milky Way and other celestial wonders. Campgrounds are available at the park, and many people make nearby cities like Medford or Klamath Falls a home base for the national park.

Getting to Crater Lake National Park from Portland takes about four or five hours by car, depending on the route. You can also catch a bus or take the train from Portland to Klamath Falls and then hop on a shuttle up to Crater Lake.

Nothing beats a weekend at the beach, and no view quite compares to the one found at Cannon Beach. This popular tourist town has been attracting families and tourists for nearly 100 years. It's also one of the more popular weekend getaways from Portland , located just a 90-minute drive from the City of Roses on the northern Oregon coast.

The beach at Cannon Beach is wide, inviting, and filled with scenic appeal. The most standout feature is the impressive Haystack Rock situated just offshore. This giant sea stack is home to several nesting birds and abundant tide pools during extremely low tide. Common activities on the expansive beach include tide pool viewing, kite flying, and simply laying a towel down to enjoy the view.

The downtown district of Cannon Beach is nothing short of charming. The streets cater to family vacations with arcade parlors, ice-cream purveyors, and a large collection of affordable restaurants.

Cannon Beach also provides many places to spend the night, with hotels like the Stephanie Inn setting a high bar for comfort, class, and ultimate vacation enjoyment.

Portland is the epicenter of culture in Oregon and has a way of turning a weekend visit into a long-term relocation. Aside from internationally renowned attractions like the Japanese Rose Garden, Powell's City of Books, and the Portland Art Museum, the community of Portland is eclectic, welcoming, and always bustling with excitement.

With a surplus of things to do in Portland , it helps to have a plan when visiting. The city is divided between several districts and neighborhoods, each offering its own collection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Popular spots to stay on a weekend visit include places like the Alphabet District west of downtown or the Hawthorne neighborhood on the east side of town.

Another big appeal of Portland is its access to wild environments. Some of the best hiking trails near the city explore awesome areas like Forest Park, Mount Tabor, and Washington Park. Within an hour's drive of Portland, other scenic areas like the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood entice other big adventures from the city.

Public transportation in Portland is easy to navigate, making a car-free weekend a recommended approach for any visit. The city's TriMet service offers bus, light rail, and commuter rail transportation.

Mount Hood, the tallest mountain in Oregon , is situated in the north-central part of the state, 50 miles east of Portland. In combination with the surrounding Mount Hood National Forest , this mountainous area is a hot spot for recreation throughout the year.

Hiking, backpacking, mountain biking , and horse riding are prevalent in the summer. The country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) meanders throughout the forest on its route between Canada and Mexico. A few other popular trails in the forest lead to picturesque natural features like Trillium Lake and Ramona Falls .

Come winter, the mountain is home to five ski resorts, including the notable Skibowl and Meadows resorts. The historic Timberline Lodge serves as an iconic ski-in, ski-out destination in the winter and a great place to cozy up to a roaring fire. Other snow activities surrounding Mount Hood include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Bend is a city for active travelers on the eastern edge of the Cascade Range in central Oregon. Its high-desert location boasts 300 days of sunshine each year and its access to wild environments is unbeatable. Thanks to these big landscapes and friendly forecasts, the great outdoors is the biggest attraction in Bend .

The Deschutes River meanders through the city, providing floating and fishing opportunities, and Deschutes and Willamette National Forest are at the city's backdoor, including iconic landscapes like Mount Bachelor and the Three Sisters Wilderness. Oregon's rock-climbing mecca, Smith Rock State Park, is also less than 30 miles north.

Few other places are primed for weekend getaways like Bend. When the seasons line up right, it's possible to ski at Mount Bachelor and rock climb at the nearby Smith Rock State Park on the same holiday weekend. Bend is also within close driving distance to some of Oregon's top hot springs .

Two of the best hiking trails near Bend include the Big Obsidian Flow Trail within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and the Green Lakes Trail off the Cascade National Scenic Byway. Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint is also a must-do for any visit, with informational plaques and a great overlook of the city.

In-city adventures include hydrodynamic afternoons spent at the city's Whitewater Park. Bend also provides a thriving downtown district filled with local eateries, coffee shops, and other purveyors of Pacific Northwest flavors. And don't pass up a chance to visit the High Desert Museum and the Old Mill District, where remnants of the city's lumber days add to the current cultural vibe.

The Columbia River Gorge is the scenic border between Oregon and Washington. It presents stunning displays of natural attractions one after another, including many of the best waterfalls in Oregon . Of note is Multnomah Falls , plunging 620 feet between two tiers. Other popular recreation outlets in the Gorge include elevated hiking trails and historic highways.

Portland is a common gateway to the Gorge, where visitors head east against the Columbia River current. Places like Eagle Creek along the way can take up the entire day, and full weekends are spent touring the various trailheads and parking spots that line Interstate 84 and the Historic Columbia River Highway .

A few communities to check out in the gorge include Hood River and The Dalles. These charming riverfront cities provide several local shops and eateries and cozy places to stay. For awesome views and luxury accommodation, check out the Columbia Cliff Villas Hotel in Hood River.

Astoria provides a fun Pacific Northwest flavor in far northwest Oregon. This charming seaport town borders the Columbia River and its entrance into the Pacific Ocean. Sightseeing steamboats push against the current of the river, and evidence of the city's logging and fishing history remains in the well-aged architecture seen from the streets.

Perhaps perpetuated by the iconic 80s movie, The Goonies , set in Astoria and detailed at the Oregon Film Museum near the downtown district, the entire city exudes a feeling of childhood adventure and secret treasures, enhanced by the colorful architecture that adorns the hilly neighborhoods overlooking the ocean.

Wandering around Astoria is half the fun of any visit, and the Astoria Riverwalk is the first place to stroll. Here, the town's history stands out under the sight of the impressive Astoria-Megler Bridge. This is also the spot to access the rest of the downtown district filled with local shops and restaurants.

West of the city, on the other side of Young's Bay, the 3,700-acre Fort Stevens State Park lends access to actual shipwrecks and the ocean. The state park also features one of the best campgrounds on the Oregon coast and one of the largest, with over 400 campsites available.

Plenty of weekend events occur in Astoria throughout the summer, though this charming small town warrants a visit at any time of the year. A notable hotel in downtown Astoria, the Cannery Pier Hotel provides a great vantage point over the water and easy access to the cultural district.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Astoria, OR

Eugene is a collegiate city in the Willamette Valley. It's home to the University of Oregon and packed with many cultural things to do.

Outside of academic offerings, a few other reasons to spend the weekend in Eugene include an abundance of city parks, gardens, and arboretums. The city is also renowned for a Saturday market, which brings the community together throughout the warm-weather season.

Some of Oregon's most iconic national forests border Eugene, like Siuslaw National Forest, abutting the ocean to the west. To the east, Willamette and Deschutes National Forests help define the state's central mountainous region. Outdoor adventures like hiking and skiing are easily accessible from Eugene and help define the city's active outdoor community.

For a hotel close to campus and other top attractions of the city, the Inn at the 5th provides upscale accommodations and on-site dining.

Hood River is on the Columbia River in northern Oregon, 60 miles west of Portland. It's an adventurous city filled with good food, a friendly community, and endless recreation spread in every direction.

Some of the top things to do in Hood River include touring the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway and hopping aboard the Mount Hood Railroad .

Hood River is also a notable windsurfing destination. The high gusts coming off the Columbia River make the city a mecca for windsurfers from across the world. And the rest of the Columbia River Gorge extending from Hood River receives similar notoriety, thanks to its dense collection of hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints.

Hood River also lends easy access to the nearby Mount Hood and historic areas like the Timberline Lodge. And if in the mood for a camping getaway, Hood River has some excellent campgrounds , both along the river and tucked into wooded areas.

Within the city, Hood River provides cultural entertainment including local restaurants and a historic downtown shopping area. The Best Western Plus Hood River Inn is a well-reputed hotel in Hood River thanks to rooms and suites with views of the river, as well as an onsite restaurant and scenic outdoor pool and hot tub area.

Newport is a top destination along the Oregon Coast. It's home to world-renowned attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium and worldly views at places like Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area . It's also a great jumping-off point for exploring Oregon's Central Coast, filled with a fun ebb and flow of sightseeing attractions.

Newport is also an excellent destination to enjoy the beach. Several beaches near Newport attract attention, but perhaps none more so than Nye Beach within the city limits. This beautiful stretch of sand is wide and accommodating and great for all types of beach activities. It's also connected to a charming and historic retail and shopping district that's easy to spend a weekend enjoying.

The Hallmark Resort in Newport lends access to both the beach and nearby city attractions.

Surrounded by scenic attractions, the McKenzie River of central Oregon offers all sorts of recreation. This river corridor is home to wild blue pools, enormous waterfalls, and some of Oregon's best hot springs .

The McKenzie River also parallels the 26.4-mile McKenzie River National Recreation Trail . The river is popular for boaters, and on nearly any warm day of the year, you can expect to find rafts, kayaks, and the occasional tube making its way down the river.

With many ways to access the natural wonders of this stunning waterway, one of the best weekend trips involves multiple nights at the aptly named Paradise Campground , operated by the National Forest Service.

For a roof over your head and easy access to a shower, the nearby cities of Bend and Salem are the largest cities with the easiest access. One of the premier hotels in Bend, the Riverhouse on the Deschutes provides a vacation experience in itself.

Depoe Bay is a whale-spotting town on the central Oregon coast, perhaps better known as the "Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast". The town's western edge comprises a steep sea cliff, offering an excellent vantage point for spotting migrating whales or the town's resident pod of grey whales.

And there's a lot more to do outside of spotting massive mammals. Depoe Bay's downtown district offers charming beach vacation vibes, with saltwater taffy confections and locally sourced seafood on the menus.

Other top attractions of Depoe Bay include picnicking at Fogarty Creek or chartering a ride out on the World's Smallest Harbor.

For a place to stay in Depoe Bay, the Whale Cove Inn offers all-day whale watching from a sprawling, private back porch.

The State Capitol building is a great first stop when visiting Salem, including the manicured State Capitol State Park complete with statues, memorials, and interpretive information. The gilded Oregon Pioneer atop the State Capitol overlooks the many other fun things to do in this thriving city of over 160,000 residents, including the inviting landscape of Riverside State Park.

The capitol building is open to the public and adorned with stately paintings and architecture. Guided tours are available, and many opt for a self-guided experience. Other family-friendly places to check out nearby include the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, the Gilbert House Children's Museum, and the Enchanted Forest - a fairytale-infused theme park on the south side of the city.

For the ultimate weekend getaway, The Grand Hotel in Salem is connected to the Convention Center, with luxurious rooms and suites available, as well as a decadent in-house restaurant that can add to any romantic weekend getaway.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Salem, OR

The southern portion of the Oregon coastline offers a scenic and rugged postcard-worthy landscape. Sea stacks of all shapes and sizes, secret beaches only accessible at low tide, and up-and-down hiking trails that will test your legs offer plenty of adventure.

The best frame for the southern Oregon coast can be found within the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, a 12-mile linear state park connecting the coast to Highway 101. Options and parking areas abound for quick and prolonged stops, and the Oregon Coast Trail connects every scenic mile along the way.

A few of the many roadside stops and viewpoints to check out include Arch Rock, Natural Bridge , and the crescent beach presented at the Lone Ranch Picnic Area. Whales are often spotted from places like Cape Ferrelo during the spring and summer, and seabirds and other wildlife are common sights throughout the year.

One of the best campgrounds on the Oregon coast , Harris Beach State Park lends immediate access to Samuel H. Boardman from the south, and the Best Western Beachfront Inn in Brookings provides oceanside rooms less than five miles from the scenic corridor.

Joseph is a mountain town in northeast Oregon with a long-standing history. The Wallowa Mountains give the town its upright and dazzling scenery, and the Nez Perce Tribe adds to the long legacy. The town itself is named after Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce People and is home to his burial site, now today part of Nez Perce National Historical Park .

Alongside the cultural legacy, the outdoors are a big attraction of Joseph. The shimmering Wallowa Lake sits just south of the city, backdropped by impressive mountain peaks. Wallowa Lake State Park is on the southern end of the water, offering a popular campground.

Nearby, the Wallowa Lake Tramway takes visitors all the way to the top of Mount Howard with no hiking involved.

For indoor accommodations near Wallowa Lake, consider a rustic-yet-modern accommodation like Eagle Cap Chalets . This charming property has cabins, condos, and hotel rooms to choose from, all with fast access to the surrounding stunning environment.

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Where to Stay on a Weekend Getaway in Oregon: If your short break is all about rest and relaxation rather than adventure, your destination may come down to finding a beautiful resort in Oregon, where you can park yourself for a couple of days. You can find some of the best ones along the Oregon Coast. Spend your weekend looking out over the ocean and enjoying the sunsets, and maybe add on some time at the spa and enjoy some good meals.

More on Oregon

Portland, OR   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Photo by Matt Payne of Durango, Colorado | Getty Images

23 Best Things To Do in Portland, OR

If you've seen the comedy "Portlandia," you know Portland, Oregon, as a bike-friendly city that's full of food carts, indie bookstores, farm-to-table restaurants and an embarrassing number of coffee shops. Most of these characterizations are

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Washington Park Washington Park free

Many critics, travelers and locals agree that of all of Portland's parks (and they are numerous), Washington Park is perhaps the best. Washington Park is home to such notable landscaping feats as the Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden , as well as the World Forestry Center, Hoyt Arboretum and several memorials dedicated to pivotal points in Oregon's history.

There are also family-friendly attractions like the Oregon Zoo and the Portland Children's Museum, along with a large playground, soccer fields, tennis courts and an archery range. Just make sure you save plenty of time for a leisurely stroll down one of the many shady paths, which are often decorated with flower displays and fountains.

International Rose Test Garden International Rose Test Garden free

Not until you visit these sprawling gardens in Washington Park will you fully understand the reasoning behind one of Portland's nicknames, the City of Roses. Established in 1917 by Portlander Jesse A. Currey and city leaders, it began as a testing ground for roses from around the world. Today, it is still the oldest continuously operated public rose test garden in the United States.

Home to more than 10,000 rose bushes, the site also boasts a special Shakespeare Garden, which is festooned with roses named after the characters in William Shakespeare's plays. Recently, garden staff have also planted some of the fruit trees that populate the Bard's plays – fig, olive and medlar. Award-winning roses are found in the aptly named Gold Medal Garden. The Test Garden is full of current trial programs that might include miniature roses, David Austin roses (they receive no fungicides or insecticides), and new varieties sent by rose companies for evaluation. If you have your heart set on seeing the roses in full bloom, plan a visit in mid-June.

Portland Japanese Garden Portland Japanese Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make a reservation a few days in advance for the Zen-like Umami Café, which offers Japanese teas and traditional confections like mochi and baked manju. You can't make reservations the day of, and there is often an hourlong or more wait. – Hannah Wallace

If you need an escape from urban landscapes, seek out Zen-like tranquility at the Japanese Garden within Washington Park . The 12-acre Portland Japanese Garden is made up of eight separate gardens that represent different styles of traditional Japanese gardening techniques. All of the gardens feature essential elements like stone, water and plants that come from influences of the Shinto, Buddhist and Taoist philosophies, creating a unique, serene environment where visitors feel they are becoming a part of nature. The garden also features the Kashintei Tea House, where visitors can see demonstrations of a traditional tea ceremony, and a Cultural Village where Ikebana, bonsai care and Japanese music classes take place. If you're visiting in late March or early April, don't miss the chance to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Because of the garden's higher elevation, its trees are on a different blooming schedule than the rest of the city. (Usually a bit later.)

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Powell's City of Books Powell's City of Books free

Whether or not you're an avid reader, Powell's City of Books is worth checking out. Four floors high, it occupies a square city block; in fact, this bookstore is so large that exploring it actually requires a map.

While you wander through the stacks, keep in mind that you are tracing the footsteps of great writers, many of whom – like Ursula K. Le Guin and Neil Gaiman – have scrawled their signatures on the building's pillars. You might also schedule your visit to coincide with a reading, as the book shop hosts events nearly every day totaling more than 500 author visits a year.

Lan Su Chinese Garden Lan Su Chinese Garden

Occupying an entire city block, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is among some of the only authentic Chinese gardens in the country. Modeled after China's Ming dynasty scholars gardens, the Lan Su Chinese Garden aims to be a place where people can escape the hustle of everyday life and connect with nature. In addition to featuring plants and trees native to China as well as an 8,000-square-foot lake, the garden also hosts a variety of Chinese cultural events and festivals, such as the Lunar New Year festival and lantern viewing evenings.

Many recent visitors said the gardens were a highlight of their trip to Portland, describing the space as "tranquil," "stunning" and an "urban oasis." They also highly recommended taking the guided tour, saying it added context to the beautiful and serene setting. Tours are included in the admission price and offered daily at noon and 1 p.m. Others recommended enjoying tea and snacks at the on-site teahouse. A few visitors warned that the area surrounding the garden is home to a large number of homeless people and suggested taking an Uber or Lyft to reach the garden to avoid having to walk within the neighborhood.

Portland's Forest Park Portland's Forest Park free

If you're looking to spend some time outside, but you aren't willing to make the trek to Mount Hood , Forest Park is the place to go. Spanning 5,200 acres, it's one of the largest urban parks in America.

Among the park's features is the 30-mile Wildwood Trail, which is part of the region's 40-mile loop system connecting pedestrian and trail routes along the Columbia River to Gresham through southeast Portland along the Willamette Greenway and back to the Marquam Trail in southwest Portland. To find a trailhead, check out Forest Park Conservancy's online maps or buy a water-resistant trail map at Powell's or a New Seasons Market. If you're an avid bird-watcher, keep your eyes peeled: it's not unusual to spot barred owls, Cooper's hawks or pileated woodpeckers in the tall trees.

Multnomah Falls Multnomah Falls free

If you're willing to venture about 30 miles east of downtown Portland, you'll have access to the tallest waterfall in Oregon  – Multnomah Falls. Located along the Historic Columbia River Highway, the falls are the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, according to the U.S. Forest Service. 

At 620 feet tall, the Multnomah Falls are not for the faint of heart. Visitors have the option of climbing a 1/4-mile trail to reach Benson Bridge, which gives them a closer look at the falls and is at the crux of the first tier. Another steep, 1.25-mile hike will take travelers to the top of the falls for incredible views of the Columbia River Gorge . The Multnomah Falls Lodge, located at the base of the falls, houses a gift shop, restrooms and a restaurant for patrons to enjoy before or after their hike.

Portland Saturday Market Portland Saturday Market free

Whether you're craving international foods or are in search of a unique souvenir, the Portland Saturday Market is the place to look. Running since 1974, the market is located on the northern side of Tom McCall Waterfront Park and features 150 booths filled with art, upcycled clothing, handmade toys, organic soaps, reclaimed wood cutting boards and jewelry – all made by local artisans .

After you've had your fill of shopping, satisfy your appetite at one of the many food booths, which serve everything from Nepalese and Uruguayan to North African and Polish cuisines. There's live music every Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. (Check the market's Instagram to find out who will be performing.) 

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Hoyt Arboretum Hoyt Arboretum free

Founded in 1928, the 189-acre Hoyt Arboretum features over 170 different tree families and 6,000 individual trees. The species represented originate from every continent except Antarctica. Visitors can either explore the arboretum on their own via the park's 12 miles of trails or take a guided tour. Travelers with children will want to check out the family-friendly activities like seed paper workshops and "Tree Time" for preschoolers. There are also adult classes on everything from forest bathing to mushroom identification walks (prices range from $15 to $30).

Past visitors raved about the arboretum and many expressed their surprise that such a tranquil place exists within city limits. Travelers also encouraged future tourists to take their time when exploring the trails and advised planning a trip around one of the arboretum's weekend guided walks.

Mount Hood Mount Hood

On clear days, you can see snowy Mount Hood, the highest mountain in Oregon (at 11,239 feet), from Portland. Mount Hood is the region's prime skiing area, with numerous powdery downhill and cross-country trails. Test your skills on the expert slopes at Mt. Hood Skibowl or hit Mt. Hood Meadows for some of the area's best terrain. Or, get cozy at Timberline Lodge, built thanks to Franklin D. Roosevelt's Works Progress Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps. The historic, stately lodge is also where Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining" was (partially) filmed. Spend the night here in one of 70 rustic rooms, or grab dinner at one of the lodge's seven eateries. 

Planning a summer getaway? Never fear: Mount Hood offers summer skiing as well, not to mention plenty of opportunities to hike and mountain bike. Mount Hood's main summer attraction is the Mt. Hood Adventure Park at Skibowl, which features hiking and biking trails, as well as numerous other warm-weather activities.

Portland Art Museum Portland Art Museum

As the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest, the Portland Art Museum set the bar high for its patrons. It is home to Oregon's most prestigious collection, including works from the European masters, Japanese screen prints and contemporary American pieces. There is also a sculpture garden and an area devoted to photography. But the museum's Native American gallery – which consists of more than 3,500 ancient and modern objects from more than 200 different tribes – is not to be missed.

Recent travelers admit that they got lost in the art at this Portland museum, which is easy to do since the large collection fills three connected buildings. Because the museum is somewhat of a maze to navigate, some travelers recommend figuring out which exhibits you're interested in ahead of time so you know exactly where to go in the museum before arriving (gallery maps can be found online). Others were particularly pleased with the temporary exhibitions, which have showcased the work of artists like Jeffrey Gibson and Oscar Howe, among others.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Whether you need to keep the kids entertained for a few hours or just need a way to spend a rainy day, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is the place to go. This interactive museum (referred to by residents as OMSI) makes learning fun thanks to its five halls and five labs filled with hands-on exhibits devoted to physics, chemistry, paleontology and more. Other interactive offerings include a science playground specifically designed for young children.

And if you're a movie buff, you'll want to make your way to the museum's USS Blueback submarine, which was used to film "The Hunt for Red October," and is the most modern U.S. submarine on public display in the country. When you've exhausted the exhibits, take in a show at the Empirical Theater or marvel at the stars at the Kendall Planetarium. There's also a riverfront eatery on-site, Theory, that serves healthy sandwiches, bowls and salads. Adults will also enjoy OMSI's evening lectures called "Science Pubs" where you can grab a beer and learn about everything from beaver adaptation to weight stigma in healthcare.

Columbia River Gorge Columbia River Gorge free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After a morning hike in the gorge, stop for a late lunch and soft serve at Sugarpine Drive-In on your way back to Portland. Owned by former Portland/Brooklyn chefs Emily Cafazzo and Ryan Domingo, this Troutdale restuarant serves excellent, hearty sandwiches. – Hannah Wallace

The Columbia River flows 1,200 miles from British Columbia to the Pacific Ocean and forms a dramatic border between Washington and Oregon. Both sides offer spectacular views of the gorge – from some spots on the Washington side you can see clear views of Mount Hood . Multnomah Falls is probably the closest scenic attraction as you drive east from Portland. From there, stop in Hood River or White Salmon for lunch or dinner. Both cities have an array of eateries, breweries, ice cream shops and cafes. In White Salmon, make sure to visit the White Salmon Bakery , which makes delicious pastries and breakfast sandwiches (all on its freshly baked bread) and pop over to the owners' new wine shop, Soca , for a bottle of Oregon wine. In Hood River, head to one of a handful of breweries like pFriem Family Brewers, Ferment Brewing Co. or Double Mountain Brewery.

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Portland Mercado Portland Mercado free

Both a community economic development project for Latino entrepreneurs and one of Portland's best food cart pods, Portland Mercado showcases cuisines from Columbia, Cuba, Peru, Oaxaca and the Yucatan.

Past visitors raved about the al pastor burrito at Fernando's Alegria and the chicken mole at the Oaxacan truck. Others were blown away by the patacones (twice-fried plantains) at Qué Bacano, the Columbian truck. Travelers love the vibe as well: colorful trucks, energetic live music and plentiful outdoor seating.

Pittock Mansion Pittock Mansion

The 16,000-square-foot Pittock Mansion is one of Portland's few historic attractions and definitely one of the most unique. Built between 1909 and 1914 by Henry Pittock – the owner of The Oregonian newspaper – and his wife Georgiana, it was designed after the French Renaissance style. This 44-room mansion (of which only 23 are open to the public) contains a Turkish smoking room, a library, a music room and two sleeping porches, among other features.

A monthly behind-the-scenes tour of the mansion ($22) allows you to see parts of the property not usually open to the public like Henry Pittock's private den and the third-floor servants' quarters. Check the mansion's website for details; tours are usually offered on Saturdays. Also, stop by the gift shop, which sells handcrafted items made by local vendors. You can also take a self-guided tour during visiting hours; maps are available at the front entrance and interpretive panels are stationed throughout the mansion.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park Tom McCall Waterfront Park free

Named for a former Oregonian governor, this 30-acre park stretches alongside the Willamette River in downtown Portland and provides some of the best views of the city's skyline. Because of its prime location, it hosts many of Portland's special events – including the ever-popular Oregon Brewers Festival and the Portland Rose Festival.

But even when the city isn't celebrating, there's plenty to do here. Locals congregate for afternoon strolls or picnics and families cool off on hot days at the Salmon Street Springs fountain. The park is also home to some historic monuments like the Founders Stone, the Japanese American Historical Plaza and the Police Memorial. The Portland Saturday Market is held within the park every weekend from March to Christmas Eve. If you're in need of a bite to eat, head to Pine Street Market – a food hall with that sits at the northern end of the park at Second Avenue and Pine Street.

Mount Tabor Park Mount Tabor Park free

Mount Tabor is a dormant volcanic cinder cone located 5 miles east of downtown Portland. It may sound like a trek, but the scenery is well worth it. At its summit, Mount Tabor provides vistas of both downtown and Mount Hood . Travelers can choose one of three trails that takes them to the top of Mount Tabor and around the park. Along the trails, you'll see three reservoirs, which used to be the source of the city's drinking water. If views and hiking don't interest you, maybe this will: Mount Tabor Park is home to the Portland Adult Soapbox Derby. Each year on the third Saturday in August, racers in wacky cars zoom down the park's hills for a chance to win the top spot.

Past travelers relished the long walks they took through Mount Tabor Park. The breathtaking views are repeatedly mentioned by visitors, the sportier of whom run up the 293 stairs. Know that you'll do a lot of uphill walking before you reach that reward, however.

The Central Eastside The Central Eastside free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Food lovers in Portland get their olive oil, grains and Rancho Gordo beans at Wellspent Market , a locally-owned provisions store that also sells a great selection of natural wines, ciders and beer. – Hannah Wallace

Once an industrial neighborhood, the Central Eastside has been percolating over the past six to eight years with breweries, restaurants and even a few stylish boutique hotels. Even if you don't stay at Kex , an Icelandic youth hostel, you should make a visit to its horseshoe-shaped bar, Pacific Standard , which is now manned by respected bartender and author, Jeffrey Morgenthaler. Time your visit for happy hour (3 to 6 p.m.) to enjoy a $2 discount on all menu items, including food.

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Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai

Named after the orphan Pip in Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations," this eclectic little cafe on Fremont Street is where Portlanders go to get their doughnuts and house-made chai. Because these doughnuts are diminutive, you can order four, six, eight or even 12. Regular flavors like cinnamon sugar, raw honey and sea salt, Nutella and candied bacon maple are justly popular, but don't skip the seasonal flavors, which in summer months always include local berries and peaches.

A decade ago, owners Jamie and Nate Snell used their life savings to start their doughnut shop, and when banks would not give them a $10,000 loan they felt like orphans, and sought help from friends and family. (Hence the name, Pip's.) They've put a lot of love into it – Nate was the general contractor and Jamie did the design and painted the clouds that cover the walls. A fun Portland touch: On your birthday you can come in and get a dozen doughnuts for free.

Portland, Oregon, Brewery Tours Portland, Oregon, Brewery Tours

Portland is well-known for its craft beers. In fact, there are roughly 70 breweries in the city proper, meaning there are plenty of places to quench your thirst. Though you're welcome to stop by the breweries on your own, taking a guided brewery tour might be a better bet if you're only in Portland for a quick trip (and want someone else to worry about transportation). The tours generally stop at a few different breweries in the city, allowing participants to sample several different kinds of beer.

City Brew Tours , which travels by van, wins accolades from past tourgoers for its knowledgeable guides and wide range of beer samples. For the company's Original Brew Tour, which lasts approximately five hours, the $129 ticket price includes beer samples at four breweries and a meal at either Migration or Ex Novo, two local breweries. BrewCycle welcomes you to "cycle" on a trolley with other people as it winds its way from brewery to pub on the east or west side of Portland. (You can also rent out a whole trolley for a special occasion.) Tickets range from $20 to $25 per person, depending on the day, and do not include beer.

PSU Farmers Market PSU Farmers Market free

If you're in Portland on a Saturday, make a morning stop at the PSU Farmers Market. In addition to just-picked local produce, vendors peddle meat, beverages (including alcohol), dairy products, mushrooms, chocolate and more. Talented musicians typically busk for tips.

Past visitors said the market is worth walking through even if you don't plan on buying produce. Others were impressed with the smoked fish, excellent Jewish rye and beautiful flowers for sale. Travelers also raved about the prepared foods at the market, including tamales, breakfast burritos, cookies and more.

Oregon Zoo Oregon Zoo

Explore some of the world's cutest, ferocious and exotic critters at the Oregon Zoo. The zoo houses more than 2,500 animals representing more than 200 different species ranging from reptiles to big cats to insects. In 2021, the zoo opened new habitats for rhinos, primates and polar bears, which were the final improvements after a decade-long expansion project. Along with the animal exhibits, there are also behind-the-scenes tours, as well as a train and carousel.

Recent visitors reported loving the zoo for its manageable size and animal residents (especially the elephants). Reviewers say you should expect to spend about two to four hours exploring. A few travelers were frustrated to learn that advance ticket purchase is required, and a few griped about the cost of parking.

Freakybuttrue Peculiarium Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

You can tell when entering this art gallery/museum/gift shop that the owners, Mike Wellins and Lisa Freeman, love science fiction, horror, cryptozoology, unsolved urban legends and the mysterious. Wellins calls the Peculiarium an anti-museum: you won't find sterile rooms with squeaky floors or frowning guards. What you will find? Everything from an alien autopsy to a theremin, ghosts, D.B. Cooper and two (faux) vampire killing kits. At the adjacent snack bar, you can try Freeman's Frankenballs, Franken Fries and her famous Bug Sundaes (Tillamook ice cream with freeze-dried mealworms and cooked scorpions – stingers removed – on top). 

Visitors say that you definitely "Keep Portland Weird" in this quirky art museum/gift shop with pop horror displays and grotesqueries. Past visitors recommend checking out the gift shop first, and if you're amused, go ahead and pay admission to the museum. Otherwise, it may not be for you.

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25 Best Things to Do in Oregon — Fun Activities & Stuff to Do!

Oregon is a picturesque state sitting on the shores of the North Pacific Ocean.

This magnificent state is home to many natural wonders, like scenic parks, pristine beaches, colossal mountains, and stunning lakes, ideal if you are looking for a refreshing vacation in the great outdoors.

Whether you live nearby or far away, Oregon provides the perfect release from the mundane routine of your daily life.

Aside from spending time in nature, you can enjoy countless fun activities, such as touring a museum, going wine tasting, relaxing at a hot spring, and so much more.

Kickstart your fun-filled and unforgettable vacation by checking this list of the best things to do in Oregon I specially picked for your enjoyment!

1. Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park Crater Lake, OR 97604 (541) 594-3000

Crater Lake National Park is gorgeous and one of the best places to visit in Oregon for outdoor fun.

It is famous nationwide and welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

Why You’ll Enjoy This Activity

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Mother Earth at Crater Lake National Park.

It is one of the most famous sights in Oregon and is breathtakingly beautiful.

It offers a wide array of activities you can enjoy, no matter what season you choose to visit.

Its stunning landscape features jaw-dropping mountain backdrops, towering trees, sparkling azure water, and much more.

There are many activities for you to enjoy with travel buddies at Crater Lake National Park.

For example, extend your stay by camping, stargazing at night, hiking through picturesque trails, fishing, swimming, boating, mountain biking, going on a guided tour, and many other options.

During the winter season, Crater Lake National Park has tons of thrilling activities to offer you.

Such as skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, ice-fishing, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crater Lake Resort

2. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area — Hood River

902 Wasco Avenue Hood River, OR 97031 (541) 308-1700

The beauty and magnificence of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area are awe-inspiring.

It is a premier hiking destination, and one of the must-see tourist spots in the state.

Enjoy a nature retreat with your companions at Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

It is the perfect spot for you to enjoy some much-needed time in nature, away from large cities and the noise of bustling crowds.

It has spectacular views that will take your breath away.

Visit the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area this weekend and prepare for a memorable getaway by yourself or with your friends.

Here, you can go hiking through different trails of varying difficulties, stay the night by pitching up a tent and camping, and many more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Hood River Inn

3. Haystack Rock and Beach — Cannon Beach

US-101 Cannon Beach, OR 97110 (503) 436-2623

Haystack Rock is a unique landmark in Cannon Beach. It sits on the shores of a stunning coastline and stands at 235 feet tall.

Haystack Rock is one of the highest intertidal structures on earth.

The gigantic Haystack Rock is a sight for sore eyes. It, along with its beach, is the most popular tourist attraction in Cannon Beach .

It provides the perfect, romantic backdrop for couples to come sunset when the skies come alive with auburn colors.

When searching for the ideal beach escapade, look no further because Haystack Rock and Beach is the ultimate destination.

After taking many pictures with the iconic Haystack Rock, you can spend the rest of your time at the postcard-perfect beach.

Have a relaxing time sprawled on the sand, basking under the warmth of the sun.

There are tons of activities you can enjoy doing with your spouse or friends.

Like going for a stroll, beachcombing, going for a leisurely swim in the cerulean water, birdwatching, burying each other in the soft sand, observing the rich marine life at the tide pools, and many more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cannon Beach Hotel

4. Mount Bachelor Ski Area — Bend

13000 SW Century Dr Bend, OR 97702 (541) 382-1709

Mount Bachelor Ski Area is a ski resort resting on a mountain of the same name.

It is an amazing ski destination offering more than 4,300 skiable acres.

Are you an avid fan of winter sports?

Do you want to go on an adventure in the snow doing many thrilling activities?

If so, pack your bags and bring your family or friends along to Mount Bachelor Ski Area for an epic getaway that you will remember for years to come.

Make sure you wear warm clothing as you spend a terrific day in the snow at Mount Bachelor Ski Area.

This ski resort has something great to offer you, whether you are just learning how to ski or an experienced skier.

Some of the activities you can enjoy are skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing, guided tours, snowboarding, and more.

If you are a beginner or traveling with kids who are skiing for the first time, you can sign-up for private lessons at Mount Bachelor Ski Area and guided ski excursions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sunriver Resort

Related: Best Things to Do in Bend, OR

Related: Fun Things to Do in Oregon with Kids

5. Oregon Film Museum — Astoria

732 Duane St Astoria, OR 97103 (503) 325-2203

The Oregon Film Museum exhibits galleries and displays highlighting the legacy of television and movie production in Oregon.

Are you looking for things to see in Oregon that are interesting and not time-consuming?

Then consider touring the Oregon Film Museum.

This museum has many displays to explore and even offers interactive exhibits, offering you a more entertaining visit.

Take a couple of minutes out of your day to view the exhibits at the Oregon Film Festival.

At this charming museum, you can view props and items used in films like The Goonies, Free Willy, Come See The Paradise, and countless more.

Fun family-friendly activities you can do here are making your short film, taking quirky mug shots, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Selina Commodore Astoria

Related: Things to Do in Astoria

Related: Places to Eat in Astoria

6. Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve — Cave Junction

19000 Caves Hwy Cave Junction, OR 97523 (541) 592-2100

The Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve, nestled on the Siskiyou Mountains, is a protected park spanning 4,554 acres.

Its greatest treasure is a captivating cave known as the Marble Halls of Oregon.

The Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve offers a wide array of ranger-led tours for you to choose from, depending on what you want to do.

Whether you are traveling with your young children or with a group of friends, you can find the perfect outdoor activity at Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve.

Book a guided tour of the Marbles of Oregon at Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve.

A popular tour option is the Discovery Cave Tour, which includes traversing the caves 220 feet beneath the surface.

Another tour option is the Candlelight Cave Tour, a historic tour experience involving exploring the caves by the light of a flickering candle.

When traveling with your youngsters, consider the Kids and Family Tour, the safest option for your little ones.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Rogue Regency Inn & Suites

7. Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art — Eugene

1430 Johnson Lane Eugene, OR 97403 (541) 346-3027

You can find the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art at the University of Oregon.

This art museum, established in 1930, features Victorian architecture and numerous galleries to view.

If you love looking through various artworks, considering visiting the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art.

This museum offers you tons of exhibits and galleries filled with stunning pieces to view.

It also frequently holds lectures, workshops, and special events for you to enjoy a more immersive art experience.

Roam the different galleries of the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and take time looking at each masterpiece.

You can opt to go on a guided tour of the facility or tour it on your own with the help of an audio guide.

Depending on what they have planned, other activities you can do here are watching an art film screening, participating in a workshop, listening in on a lecture, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Valley River Inn Eugene/Springfield

Related: Things to Do in Eugene

8. Washington Park — Portland

4033 SW Canyon Rd Portland, OR 97221 (503) 319-0999

Washington Park, spanning more than 458 acres, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state.

It has everything you may want to visit on your Oregon getaway.

In search of fun activities in Oregon to create new memories with your family?

If so, Washington Park is the place for you.

This park features limitless possibilities for you to enjoy on your family vacation .

Within Washington Park are numerous other attractions, like Oregon Zoo, an archery range, a large playground, sports courts, a rose garden, a Japanese garden, picnic areas, and so much more.

Have a fantastic day with bonding with your loved ones at Washington Park.

There are tons of activities for you to do together, such as practicing your archery skills, biking on paved paths, exploring picturesque gardens, having a picnic while taking in the fresh air, getting up close and personal with animals at the Oregon Zoo, playing tennis, and many more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Duniway Portland, A Hilton Hotel

Related: Things to Do in Portland

9. Oregon Coast Aquarium — Newport

2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd Newport, OR 97365 (541) 867-3474

The Oregon Coast Aquarium, opened in 1992, is a top-ranking, world-class aquarium.

It is home to thousands of marine animals of varying species.

One of our favorite activities in Oregon is the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

The stunning aquarium allows you and your companions to explore the wonders and beauty of our ocean and its marine life.

It features many indoor and outdoor animal exhibits for you to explore.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium was once home to Keiko, the friendly orca who starred alongside Jesse in the movie Free Willy.

Discover the magnificence of marine life at the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

At this aquarium, you can walk through an aquarium tunnel and feel as if you are on the ocean floor.

Some of the sea creatures you can view are sharks, jellyfish, octopi, harbor seals, and many more.

This aquarium also features an aviary with many sea and shorebirds, like the brown pelican and the tufted puffin.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Newport

10. Willamette Heritage Center — Salem

1313 Mill St SE Salem, OR 97301 (503) 585-7012

The Willamette Heritage Center, founded in the 19th century, is a historic site.

It features fourteen historical structures and many other buildings.

It has an onsite art gallery, retail shops, artist studios, and more.

If you are a history buff and looking for where to go in Oregon, the Willamette Heritage Center is the perfect choice for you.

Travel back in time to the 1900s by touring the many historical sites found at this heritage center.

Add a visit to the Willamette Heritage Center to your Oregon trip itinerary.

Here, you can take a tour with a knowledgeable and friendly guide and explore historic homes that date back to 1841.

Aside from the homes, you can visit a former church, textile mill, a methodist parsonage, and so much more.

The tours allow you to learn a little more about Oregon’s history and the way of life back in the 19th century.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton North Salem

11. Newberry National Volcanic Monument — Bend

Forest Service Rd 21 Bend, OR 97702 (541) 383-5300

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument protects the area around Newberry Volcano.

It features many fun things to do in the heart of nature.

Are you an outdoor enthusiast and want to go on your next big nature adventure?

Then consider Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

This gorgeous national monument has crystalline lakes, lush greenery, stunning geological features, and more.

Head on over to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument today and prepare for a fantastic time with your travel buddies.

You can do activities like camping, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, swimming, mountain biking, and more.

During the wintertime, you can have a blast going cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

12. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor — Brookings

U.S. 101 Brookings, OR 97415 (800) 551-6949

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor rests in the southwestern region of Oregon.

This gorgeous state park has charming beaches, hiking trails, dramatic rock formations, and more.

Are you missing the fresh sea breeze and oceanfront views?

If so, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is the ideal vacation spot for you.

This park is jaw-droppingly beautiful, offering rugged coastlines and endless views of the North Pacific Ocean.

Share a wonderful time with your loved ones and friends at Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.

At this lovely park, you can have a fun beach day doing activities like getting a tan, making towering sandcastles, exploring sea arches, splashing in the cool water, and so on.

You can also enjoy other activities such as hiking oceanfront trails, enjoying a delicious picnic together, watching water sprout many feet into the air from a blowhole, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Whaleshead Beach Resort

Related: Best Beaches in Oregon

13. Mount Hood National Forest — Sandy

Sandy, OR 97055 (971) 333-4100

Mount Hood National Forest is a terrific outdoor destination offering a plethora of enjoyable activities in mother nature.

Journey into the heart of nature at Mount Hood National Forest.

It offers you a picturesque landscape where you can have a great time in the great outdoors.

Take in the fresh air and enjoy time on land, in the water, or higher up into the mountains during winter for a snowy escape.

There are tons of exciting things for you to enjoy at Mount Hood National Forest.

For example, going on a day hike and appreciating the magnificent views from high above, enjoying a scenic drive, skiing, horseback riding, ziplining, mountain biking, boating, fishing, rafting, and lots more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Timberline Lodge

14. Silver Falls State Park — Sublimity

20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE Sublimity, OR 97385 (800) 551-6949

Silver Falls State Park is the largest state park in Oregon, spanning at least 9,000 acres.

It features numerous trails for different purposes, making it a local favorite for hiking.

Silver Falls State Park is a haven for you if you adore spending time outdoors.

It is picture-perfect and offers you a boatload of activities to enjoy.

One of its highlights is a captivating waterfall that will take your breath away.

It has many trails with varying difficulties, where you can hike on foot or while riding a bike or a horse.

It also features many campgrounds that offer primitive and modern camping facilities for your convenience.

Have an unforgettable day with your partner, family, or friends at Silver Falls State Park.

Activities you can enjoy are hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking through scenic paths, camping in a tent or staying the night in a cabin, cooling off from the heat by swimming, grilling juicy burgers, having a barbecue together, visiting the waterfalls, and tons of other options.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Silverton Inn & Suites

Related: Best Family Hotels in Oregon

15. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area — Reedsport

855 US-101 Reedsport, OR 97467 (541) 271-6000

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, resting near the coastline, is one of the top spots to see in Oregon.

It welcomes millions of visitors each year.

When looking for cool or unique areas to check out, or if you want to enjoy thrilling and adrenaline-rushing activities, consider Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

It features mountains of dunes offering the perfect spot for a fun-filled day on the sun-kissed, golden sand.

Many local agencies offer fun-filled tours at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, giving you numerous options for fun things to do in Oregon.

Pack your water and other necessities you may need as you spend the day under the sun and on the sand at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

Depending on which tour you decide on, activities you can do are sandboarding, driving 4×4 jeeps, motorbiking, off-road vehicle riding, and much more.

Other activities you can enjoy are hiking, camping, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, and plenty of other fun options.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Salbasgeon Inn & Suites

16. Sea Lion Caves — Florence

91560 US-101 Florence, OR 97439 (541) 547-3111

The Sea Lion Caves, a system of sea caverns, is one of the largest sea caves in America.

It is the home of numerous sea lions.

The Sea Lion Caves are unique and one-of-a-kind.

It is a spectacular place to visit with your family or friends as you explore its wonders.

Another thing that makes these caves so wondrous is the countless sea lions resting on the rocks.

The Sea Lion Caves are the ideal spot for you to observe nature’s wildlife.

Here, you can find sea lions and other animals like tufted penguins, herrings, California gulls, and more.

Occasionally, you can also spot bald eagles and whales swimming by from a distance.

The best time to visit the Sea Lion Caves is during the winter season when there are hundreds of sea lions.

During the spring season, you can witness sea lions give birth to their pups.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Driftwood Shores Resort

17. Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area — Lincoln City

Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area Lincoln City, OR 97367 (800) 551-6949

Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area is a state park nestled on the banks of Devil’s Lake.

It features campsites, a dock, picnic areas, and more.

Get a break from the heat and humidity by visiting Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area with your family or friends.

One of the best Oregon activities to enjoy with your travel companions is visiting Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area for a fun time in the glimmering water, surrounded by towering trees and breathtaking sceneries.

Bond with your significant other, friends, or loved ones at Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area by doing fun things together.

You can go boating, fishing, kayaking, hiking, water-skiing, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, camping, canoeing, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Anchor Inn Resort

Related: Oregon Travel Tips

18. Willamette Valley — Portland

Willamette Valley Portland, OR 97225 (503) 297-2962

Willamette Valley, roughly 150 miles long, is the leading wine region of Oregon.

It is home to hundreds of wineries and vineyards that you can visit.

Go on a romantic date with your spouse at Willamette Valley.

It is the ideal place for you to enjoy some much-needed time together, go wine tasting, and explore the beauty of various vineyards.

If you love a delicious wine, there is no better place to be.

Willamette Valley offers you more than six hundred wineries to choose from.

Depending on which location you choose, you and your beloved can do activities like listening to live music while wine tasting, trying out exquisite food, biking through gorgeous vineyards, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites

Related: Restaurants: Portland

19. Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead — Idleyld Park

NF-3401 Idleyld Park, OR 97447 (541) 957-3200

Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead is a scenic trail that leads to magical hot springs.

It is open from dawn to dusk.

Are you craving some relaxing time away from the worries and stress of your day-to-day life?

If you are, Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead is the perfect solution.

It features natural hot springs amidst breathtaking sceneries.

Take some time away from work and head on over to Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead to enjoy relaxation time.

Here, you can forget your problems as you take a dip in the rejuvenating water of the hot springs while listening to the sounds of nature.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Roseburg

20. Pendleton Whisky Music Fest

1205 SW Court Ave Pendleton, OR 97801

The Pendleton Whisky Music Fest is the biggest music festival in Oregon.

It takes place at Pendleton Roundup Grandstand and welcomes world-famous acts.

If you aren’t sure what to do in Oregon with your friends, there is nothing better than attending the Pendleton Whisky Music Fest together.

This fantastic party is the perfect combination of drinking, live entertainment, meeting new people, and having a terrific time with your friends.

The Pendleton Whisky Music Fest featured celebrities like Post Malone, Macklemore, Maroon 5, Blake Shelton, 50 Cent, and so much more.

Have a fun-filled time at the Pendleton Whisky Music Fest.

You can spend the time drinking refreshing beverages, singing along to your favorite songs, dancing the night away to live performances of talented artists, meeting new people, and countless other options.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Pendleton Inn

21. Enchanted Forest — Turner

8462 Enchanted Way SE Turner, OR 97392 (503) 371-4242

The Enchanted Forest is a beautiful family-friendly amusement park.

It first opened in 1971 and has rides and attractions for all ages.

Take your family on a vacation that they will remember for years to come at the Enchanted Forest.

This stunning amusement park is magical and offers you and your tribe a wide array of attractions and rides to explore, no matter how old your kids are.

It has a gift shop where you can buy all sorts of fun things your kids will love, like toys and costumes.

For a cheap price, you can enjoy tons of fun rides with your family.

Like, Big Timber Log, a thrilling log ride that ends with a splash, Challenge of Mondor, a target shooting adventure where you get to battle monsters, and Tiny Tune Train, a mini train ride for your tots.

It also features a ton of other attractions for your enjoyment, like a haunted house, carousel, Ferris wheel, bumper boats, a face painting station, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Independence Hotel

22. Painted Hills — Mitchell

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument Mitchell, Oregon 97750 (541) 987-2333

The Painted Hills are a glorious geological site found at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.

It spans 3,132 acres and offers some of the most picturesque sceneries in all of Oregon.

When sight-seeing in Oregon, do not miss out on touring the Painted Hills.

It is one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon and formed 35 million years ago.

Here, you can spot the fossil remains of various wildlife.

Each visit is never the same because of the color of the hills, which changes depending on the light and moisture levels.

There aren’t many recreational activities you can enjoy at Painted Hills to protect the site.

But, getting a glimpse of this glorious geological formation is more than enough.

Take pictures with the Painted Hills in the background to amaze your friend.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bend

23. The Zymoglyphic Museum — Portland

6225 SE Alder St Portland, OR 97215

The Zymoglyphic Museum is no ordinary museum; it is weird and quirky.

It features a collection of curiosities divided into two categories, artificial and natural.

Do you like viewing things that are odd and extraordinary?

Are you looking for fun stuff to do in Oregon?

Then a visit to the Zymoglyphic Museum is a great option.

It is also a brilliant choice if you are on a tight budget and want to visit a popular tourist attraction that won’t break the bank.

The Zymoglyphic Museum has an extensive collection of oddities for your amusement.

Here, you can view all sorts of things like ceremonial artifacts, quirky figurines, Asian-influenced exhibits, weird technology-inspired displays, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Eastlund

24. Tree Climbing Planet — Oregon City

20451 S Central Point Rd Oregon City, OR 97045 (404) 313-0562

The Tree Climbing Planet is an amusement center that takes place many feet in the air atop towering trees.

A fun trip to the Tree Climbing Planet is a memorable experience that you can enjoy with whomever you are vacationing with.

It offers you a multitude of fun things to do and family-friendly options, so even your younger children can have something great to do.

Prepare for the trip of a lifetime by visiting the Tree Climbing Planet.

There are multiple activities for you to enjoy, like going through a ropes course atop the trees, climbing, resting on a hammock, learning how to tie knots, tree climbing, and many other fun programs for you to try.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Rivershore Hotel

25. Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard — Woodburn

33814 S Meridian Rd Woodburn, OR 97071 (503) 634-2243

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard is jaw-droppingly gorgeous, featuring tulips of varying colors, fun programs, and occasional festivals.

Get a glimpse of Denmark at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard.

This farm is home to thousands of tulips of multiple colors.

It has beautifully landscaped scenery and offers many engaging tours of the facility.

There is also a market where you can buy freshly cut tulips or potted plants to take home.

Explore the beauty and grandeur of the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard.

You can take a stroll through the stunning flowers and take many photos.

It offers tours aboard a tractor or a hot air balloon.

One of the best things to do in Oregon is attend the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, from March to May.

It features tulips of every color of the rainbow, a train ride, and an outdoor play area featuring slides and tire swings.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Woodburn Inn

Map of Things to Do in Oregon

Oregon Things to Do: The 25 Best Activities for 2024

• Crater Lake National Park
• Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area — Hood River
• Haystack Rock and Beach — Cannon Beach
• Mount Bachelor Ski Area — Bend
• Oregon Film Museum — Astoria
• Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve — Cave Junction
• Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art — Eugene
• Washington Park — Portland
• Oregon Coast Aquarium — Newport
• Willamette Heritage Center — Salem
• Newberry National Volcanic Monument — Bend
• Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor — Brookings
• Mount Hood National Forest — Sandy
• Silver Falls State Park — Sublimity
• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area — Reedsport
• Sea Lion Caves — Florence
• Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area — Lincoln City
• Willamette Valley — Portland
• Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead — Idleyld Park
• Pendleton Whisky Music Fest
• Enchanted Forest — Turner
• Painted Hills — Mitchell
• The Zymoglyphic Museum — Portland
• Tree Climbing Planet — Oregon City
• Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard — Woodburn

Oregon City is a perfect day trip destination, with rivers, restaurants and trails to explore

• Updated: Apr. 20, 2024, 8:05 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 20, 2024, 7:00 a.m.

A spring morning on the McLoughlin Promenade, a scenic walkway along the bluff above downtown Oregon City, with Willamette Falls in the distance. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

• Jamie Hale | The Oregonian/OregonLive

Between riverside beaches, good restaurants, beautiful trails and one incredible waterfall , Oregon City has more than enough to fill your cup.

Those in the Portland area looking for a quick day trip – say, something far enough to be removed but close enough to be convenient – should look no further than the historic city at the end of the Oregon Trail.

Popularly lauded as the first incorporated U.S. city west of the Rocky Mountains (though Mayor Denyse McGriff will tell you it was the first west of the Missouri River ), the town sits at the intersection of the Willamette and Clackamas rivers with a small, historic downtown near the amazing Willamette Falls and a more sprawling section of town on the bluff above the Willamette River .

While there’s definitely a small-town vibe, its proximity to Portland is clear, especially in the restaurant scene. This is a place where you can find the offshoot of Gabriel Rucker’s famed Canard , and at least one cafe that stocks beans from Deadstock Coffee . That said, you’re more likely to see people populating beloved establishments like Mike’s Drive-In and Ranee’s on Main, where the food is decidedly unfussy.

I have long loved spending the day in Oregon City, taking any opportunity to go there. For years, I took my car to a mechanic in town, often lingering long after the work was done.

This spring, when the sun emerged and the flowers began to bloom, I plotted my return: a daylong exploration of old favorites and new spots around town. If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a travel reporter, it’s that there are always new things to discover.

Coffee and a danish at Black Ink Coffee in downtown Oregon City. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

The Oregon City Municipal Elevator is a 130-foot elevator built in 1955 that takes pedestrians to the bluff above the town. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

BREAKFAST AND A WALK

The best place to start your day downtown is Black Ink Coffee , a cafe on the southern end of the historic downtown that shares space with White Rabbit Gifts. Portland coffee snobs will be at home here with beans from Deadstock, Proud Mary and Stumptown. On a sunny Thursday morning, I sipped a macchiato at a table with vague “Alice in Wonderland” markings, then slipped out into the beautiful day.

While this part of Oregon City seems designed for walking, those embarking on foot will have to contend with parking: Metered spots downtown have two-hour limits, forcing visitors to return and move their cars. There are a few four-hour and eight-hour spots, as well as one pay lot, but I usually just surrender and organize my day around the meter.

Not far from Black Ink Coffee is the famed Oregon City Municipal Elevator , a 130-foot free public elevator that takes pedestrians up to the bluff over town (a charming stairway to the top is also available). The elevator opened in 1955, replacing an old hydraulic model that forced people to cross a 35-foot catwalk over the railroad tracks. All this I learned at the top, where a cheerful worker sat at a desk offering information to curious passersby.

The city continues at the top of the elevator, with more shops and restaurants, as well as historic buildings and neighborhoods. A few blocks over, I found The Hive Social , a hip, modern restaurant that serves food all day. In a cozy booth, I sidestepped the pricey Benedicts for an order of the Just Avo Toast and over-easy eggs, with a (surprisingly tall) glass of grapefruit juice that came out to about $20 – good fuel for a morning walk.

Oak trees and green spaces are found along the McLoughlin Promenade. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Willamette Falls, seen from a viewpoint on the side of Oregon 99E in Oregon City. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

A mock pharmacy showcases old medicine bottles and other medical devices inside the Museum of the Oregon Territory. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

The elevator gives access not only to the upper part of town, but also the McLoughlin Promenade , a half-mile pathway that runs along the edge of the bluff, past beautiful gardens and great views. The promenade comes alive in the spring, with blooming flowers, blue skies and lots of green space to enjoy. For now, this is also the best place outside of a boat to get a look at Willamette Falls , which since time immemorial has been a place for fishing and communal gathering.

As walkers on the promenade can see, Willamette Falls is still surrounded by several old paper mill buildings and hydroelectric powerhouses, some of which are active and some of which are actively being torn down. On the Oregon City side of the river, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde is slowly demolishing those buildings to make room for its tumwata village project. On the other side, the Willamette Falls Inter-Tribal Public Access Project is working on a vision of its own . Both projects promise new, beautiful community spaces, but are expected to take years to complete.

At the end of the McLoughlin Promenade, I crossed a pedestrian bridge over Oregon 99E and walked up to the main Willamette Falls viewpoint on the side of the highway. The view here doesn’t come close to what you’d get on the river, but it’s still a pretty good look.

Across the street, I popped into the Museum of the Oregon Territory , a small museum run by the Clackamas County Historical Society that had just opened for the day. The $8 admission gave me a self-guided tour of the exhibits, which run from Indigenous history through the industrial era into modern times. This is a nice way to dip your toes into local history; those looking for a more immersive experience can visit the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center on the other side of town, with its historic re-enactors, crafts, games and tours.

The Corner 14 food cart pod is bustling on a weekday afternoon. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

People gather along a beach on the Willamette River at Burnside Park in West Linn, with Goat Island in the distance. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

WILDFLOWERS AND RIVERSIDES

Back along the promenade, down the elevator and once again downtown, I searched for something to eat. I’ve lunched a lot in Oregon City over the years and have settled on a few favorites: the lefse wraps at Ingrid’s Scandinavian Food , the perfectly-portioned lunch menu at Pho Thi , and the creative, upscale options at Canard .

On this trip, I decided to check out the Corner 14 food carts , across the street from Oregon City Brewing on the north end of downtown. After browsing carts offering Thai, burgers, Mexican and Russian peroshki, I settled on a place called Veggie Bowl, where I devoured a box of rice, quinoa, veggies and nori, flavored with an addictive spicy sauce for a reasonable $11. Fueled up once again, I set off for an afternoon exploring the outdoor opportunities around town.

Oregon City has a number of good hiking areas, including Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park , which opened in 2021 with more than four miles of forested trails, and Canemah Bluff Nature Park , a small park with river views.

One of my favorite outdoor destinations here is the Camassia Natural Area , a 26-acre nature preserve just across the Willamette River in West Linn. Camassia is known for its beautiful spring wildflower blooms, which on this day I couldn’t resist. A short loop trail took me through a forest blooming with trillium and Oregon grape, and into meadows where purple camas lilies and pink sea blush flowers were popping. Nestled into a local neighborhood, the preserve has limited parking, so be respectful of neighbors when finding a spot. (Alternately, you can make the one-mile walk from downtown Oregon City, which is along sidewalks most of the way.)

After the flowers, I drove a few minutes deeper into West Linn to Maddax Woods , a seven-acre park along the Willamette River. Despite what the name suggests, the highlight here is a riverside viewing platform that looks out to Goat Island (another misnomer, as the resident animals are roosting herons). A wooded trail leads a short way uphill and enters Burnside Park , a neighborhood forest that gives access to a shaded river beach. I could have spent the rest of the afternoon on the sand, where the scenery was peaceful despite the rumble of motors from a boat launch across the water. Instead, I marked it down for another time and continued on my journey.

Camas lilies bloom at Camassia Nature Preserve. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

A margherita pizza at Mi Famiglia, a pizza restaurant in downtown Oregon City. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

A river intake pump station is an unusual landmark along the Clackamas River Trail. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Somehow hungry again, I stopped at the Mi Famiglia pizzeria in downtown Oregon City, where I downed half a $17 margherita pie, cooked speedily in the wood-fired oven. The day had grown warm, and I found the meal a necessary break from both the sun and from walking. Of course, that didn’t mean I was done exploring.

After visiting the banks of the Willamette River, I was interested to see what the Clackamas River parks had to offer. Back in my car, I drove to the north side of town where I found River Access Park , part of the Clackamas River Trail . Between the noise of nearby Interstate 205 and the disappointingly small river access points, this was no peaceful getaway (though the sunny, accessible picnic areas were tempting). The paved trail is better suited for cycling than walking, and my feet soon tired of the hard surface. I had hoped to spend more time by the Clackamas, but after a quick two-mile out-and-back walk, I had seen enough.

With evening descending and my to-do list complete, I searched for one final stop to put a cherry on the top of my Oregon City day trip. The day before my trip, a colleague who lives in the area gave me a great tip: Mike’s Drive-In , a local burger chain with a spot in the heart of Oregon City, offers soft serve ice cream cones for $1.49. There, I ordered a vanilla-strawberry swirl and grabbed a seat outside, chilled by both the ice cream and the cooling day.

It might have been a little early in the season for days filled with riverside beaches and ice cream cones, but I felt certain this town would soon be buzzing with activity, the community’s many wonderful destinations well enjoyed.

-- Jamie Hale covers travel and the outdoors and co-hosts the Peak Northwest podcast . Reach him at 503-294-4077, [email protected] or @HaleJamesB .

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• The Best Small Towns in Oregon for a Weekend Retreat

The state of Oregon , on the Pacific Ocean between Washington and California, features miles of sandy beaches, magnificent cliffs, mountains, and trails. It is a nature lover's dream and caters to many activities, such as fishing, surfing, skiing, and backpacking. The main cities are Portland, Eugene, and Salem, all of which are within driving distance of dozens of charming small towns perfect for a weekend vacation. So pack up the car or RV and experience the beauty Oregon has to offer, whether that be oceanside or further inland.

Cottage Grove

Arched sign across East Main Street in Cottage Grove Historic District, Oregon.

Located close to Eugene, Cottage Grove is a picturesque town surrounded by nature. Head over to Dorena Lake for swimming and boating or Cottage Grove Lake for fishing, picnicking, and playgrounds. If you're a cyclist or just want to ride bikes with the family, ride the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway or explore the Row River Nature Park. The town is also close to many waterfalls, including Pinard Falls, Parker Falls, Moon Falls, and Brice Creek Falls.

Want to reach new heights and see the world down below? Hike the Bohemia Mountain Trail, and while you're there, witness what was once the Bohemia Mines, now just withered away structures and railways. Cottage Grove also has plenty to do in town, including its historic downtown area, featuring bookstores, boutiques, cafes, and dozens of murals. Enjoy one of the eateries, or try a craft beer at a brewery.

On a rainy day, spend the afternoon at the Warren H. Daugherty Aquatic Center and enjoy family-friendly swimming. Visiting in July? Try to time it around Bohemia Mining Days, which hosts a pop-up saloon, carnival, and chuckwagon breakfast. As for accommodations, stay close to town at the Cottage Grove Inn, or if you're traveling with kids, consider the Sweet Springs Family Farm, located just 20 minutes away. It caters to all types of lodging, including a central hotel, a tenting area, and an RV park. Children will love spending time with the farm animals, and if you're looking for a place to have an event such as a birthday or reunion, they are experts at hosting.

Panoramic drone shot of the jetty and harbor entrance in Brookings, Oregon.

The closest seaside town to the California/Oregon border is intertwined with the town of Harbor. Surrounded by towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and nearby mountains, Brookings comes alive with nature. Watch the waves crash against the rocks at Chetco Point Park, or go beachcombing at the Harris Beach State Park. Watch the sunset at Lone Ranch Beach, or test your patience and whale watch. Swim at the outdoor pool, play some tennis at Bud Cross Park, or swing amongst the trees at the Salmon Run Golf Course.

If you're spending the day in town, take advantage of the many dog parks and dog-friendly areas, the Brookings Harbor indoor farmers market, and the beautiful streets of Port Brookings Harbor. Enjoy the marina, lots of food options, shopping, and beach access. As for events, attend the Winter Art and Chocolate Festival in February or listen in on the summer concert series at Azalea Park. Looking to spend the night? Consider the Beachfront Inn, featuring ocean views and easy access to the harbor.

Aerial view of the Whitewater Park in Bend, Oregon.

Located further inland, Bend is surrounded by mountains and lush forests and is about a 3-hour drive from Portland. Visiting in the winter? Hit the slopes at the Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort or cross-country ski and sled at the nearby snow parks. In the warmer months, stop at the Tumalo Falls trailhead, a hike that passes by over eight waterfalls, including Bridge Creek Falls and Double Falls. Descend into the caverns at Boyd Cave, which has a marked entrance as well as a staircase for easier access.

Enjoy biking? Ride through the trees on Phil's Trail or journey around the Deschutes National Forest. Wanting to stay close to town? Walk through the Riley Ranch Nature Reserve and enjoy the lookouts, or float down the river from Riverbend Park. Take the kids to the indoor Trampoline Zone and Adventure Park, or browse the bakeries and breweries downtown as for accommodations, located right on the Deschutes River and across the street from the Original Pancake House.

An oceanside town two hours away from Eugene, Coos Bay is surrounded by jagged rocks, lush forest, and sandy driftwood-covered beaches. Walk alongside Bastendorff Beach and splash through the waves, or go for a swim at North Beach. Search for shells at Cape Arago State Park, and if you're lucky, spot some sea lions sunbathing. Back in town, visit Coos Bay Village and shop at the cute boutiques, indulge in some fish and chips, and try a new brew at a local taphouse.

Downtown is also home to a bountiful farmers market, where you can find artisan wares, fresh produce, and baked goods. Grab a coffee from a cafe and walk the North Bend Boardwalk, or stop in at the Marine Life Center in the neighboring town of Charleston. In July, catch the Oregon Coast Music Festival. Looking for an afternoon activity? Golf at the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, or take a trip out to the Oregon dunes, where you can drive ATVs and try sandboarding. As for accommodations, the Itty Bitty Inn is close to parks as well as the bay and features retro-themed rooms. It is also within walking distance of many restaurants.

Granada Theater in La Grande, Oregon. By Visitor7, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Settled between the Umatilla National Forest and the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, La Grande is a historical town that served as a major point on the Oregon Trail . You can tour the Lower Ladd Canyon Oregon Trail Interpretive Site to get to know the area's important history or have a picnic at the Historic Birnie Park located in the town. Go for a dip at the Perry swimming hole on a hot day, or walk around the Mt. Emily recreational area, where you can bike the Sasquatch/Ricochet Loop. You are also able to cycle along the Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway. Want to spot some birds and animals? Head to the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area.

If you're staying in town, play a round of mini golf at Riverside Greens or grab some lunch at a local smokehouse, taqueria, or brewery. Grab an iced latte at JaxDog Cafe and Books, and pick up a new read while you're there. Afterward, make your way through town and stop at the many antique and craft stores as well as boutiques.

Visiting in July? Attend the Timber Cruisers Car Show, as well as Crazy Days, which takes place on the same weekend. Shop the pop-up vendors, test your skill at archery, eat some delicious food, and play games. Looking for somewhere to spend the night? The Grande Hot Springs RV Resort is a quick drive away and features mineral pools, a liquor store, an eatery, and a theater. It is also pet-friendly. Prefer to stay in town? The Landing Hotel offers an on-site restaurant as well as rustic, farmhouse-themed rooms.

Port Orford

Cape Blanco Lighthouse at Cape Blanco State Park near Port Orford on the Oregon coast.

A laidback coastal town along the Pacific, Port Orford is perfect for those wanting to experience the ocean and sights of Oregon but not be caught up in traffic and crowds. The town is small but has everything a traveler could need, including accommodation options and delicious restaurants. Consider staying at the Shoreline Inn and Suites, a top-rated motel located right next to the beach. It is also next to seafood restaurants and a nearby pub. Walk the main street and explore the cafes, bakeries, markets, and gift shops. Close to the Shoreline Inn is Battle Rock Waysode Park, which features lookouts, trails, and art pieces.

Further down is Port Orford Heads State Park, where you can stare out at the sea from atop massive cliffs. Or you can beachcomb at Paradise Point. If you don't mind the short drive, journey over to Cape Blanco State Park and walk to the Cape Blanco Lighthouse, where tours are offered from April through October.

If you love cycling, ride the Wild Rivers Coast scenic bikeway, or if you want to try something new, give surfing a try down at the beaches. Have young ones or just love dinosaurs? Visit the nearby Prehistoric Gardens, an adventure park home to 23 life-size dinosaurs set amongst the stunning Oregon rainforest.

Aerial view of Baker City, Oregon, on a hazy day.

Located near the Idaho border, Baker City is full of history, most of it surrounding the Oregon Trail. It is home to the Oregon Trail trailhead, offering educational hiking, and has a National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretation Center similar to the one in La Grande. You can also visit the Baker Heritage Museum in town to learn even more about the state's Western past. If you're looking to explore the land surrounding Baker City even further, backpack the Elkhorn Crest trail or journey to Hell's Canyon at Snake River, the deepest gorge in North America. In town, you can tour the historic and rustic buildings lining the streets, especially downtown.

On Main Street, stop in at one of the art galleries or grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant. There is also no shortage of bakeries and cafes serving up delicious pastries, as well as shops with antiques and cute knick-knacks. Get the full experience and take a ride on a horse-drawn wagon through the street, or spend a night at the Geiser Grand Hotel, which offers tours as well as old-fashioned rooms and architecture. The town is also home to over eight parks, leaving you with plenty of places to play, people watch, and picnic.

The expanse of the Bay Bridge in Newport, Oregon.

Back along the ocean is Newport, a seaside village with no shortage of activities. Visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium and walk through the underwater tunnels, or stop in at Ripley's Believe it or Not World Adventure. There's also the Newport Discover Zoo, featuring exotic animals like kangaroos and sloths as well as birds like ostriches and toucans. Want to see some local animals just chilling amongst the tourists? Catch the sea lions lounging along the docks and marinas. Nearby parks include Big Creek Park, where you can picnic and walk the trails, and Agate Beach, where you can walk up and down the Oregon coast. There is also the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse and the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, both offering lookouts facing the crashing waves below.

In town, walk the Yaquina Bay Bridge, a 1930s steel arch bridge, or head to the Newport Historic Bayfront, where you can stroll amongst sailboats. Spend an afternoon at Nye Beach, which has direct access to sandy beaches as well as several cafes, shops, and lunch spots. Love to fish? Join a fishing charter, or go crabbing, as Newport is the Dungeness crab capital of the world. At night, check into the Hallmark Resort, which has ocean views as well as an indoor pool. Or if you're looking to have a one-of-a-kind experience, check out the Newport Belle Bed and Breakfast, a riverboat converted into suites.

Just under two hours from Portland, Manzanita is a beach town next to a cluster of other towns, including Nehalem. It is perfect for cycling, surfing, fishing, and hiking. Begin your backpacking journey at the Oregon Coast trailhead or hike the Elk Flats Trail. Spend the day relaxing on the sandy beaches of Neakahnie-Manzanita State Park, or ride horses alongside the waves at Nehalem Bay State Park. Speaking of Nehalem, travel to the nearby town for some fish and chips, as well as a walk down the Nehalem River.

Back in Manzanita, stop in at the Hoffman Center for the Arts, where you can often catch a musical performance, film screening, or author reading. The streets are home to plenty of cafes, ice cream shops, pizza places, and restaurants serving everything from seafood to grilled dishes. Find your next favorite book at Cloud and Leaf, or pick up a toy for your furry friend at Four Paws pet store.

Looking to enjoy the area and get your heart racing but don't own the equipment? No worries, Bahama Mama's rents out bikes and surfboards. As for a place to stay, check out the Ocean Inn, which is right near the beach and has spectacular views of the ocean.

Lincoln City

Lincoln City, Oregon, is situated on the beautiful Oregon Coast.

Just an hour's drive from Salem and two hours from Portland, Lincoln City is a hiker's dream. It has several trailheads perfect for a day of backpacking, including the Cascade trailhead, Rainforest trailhead, and the Knoll Open Space trailhead. If hiking isn't your thing, have a picnic at the Roads End State Recreation Site or visit Devils Lake for some swimming, boating, and camping.

The town is also lined with sandy beaches perfect for beachcombing, tide pool hunting, crabbing, and clamming. You can also get lucky and spot some whales from one of the viewpoints. At night, during specific times of the year, enjoy a beach fire and listen to the waves crash softly while the sun sets around you. You can also rent fat tire bikes or go horseback riding through the sand.

Want an adrenaline rush? Head to the Salishan Aerial Park and zipline through the trees. In town, stop in at Output Records and find something great, or play some games at the Game Over Arcade. There are also tons of restaurant options, including seafood, grills, and Mexican. Or treat yourself to a delectable cocktail or a craft beer flight at a local bar. Looking for a place to crash for the night? Consider the Pelican Shores Inn, which has its own beach access, pool, and beautiful views of the sea.

Aerial photograph of the beach in Netarts, Oregon, on a sunny day.

If you're looking for a place to fish or load up on shellfish, Netarts, combined with the nearby resort community of Oceanside, has just what you're looking for. Under two hours from Portland, Netarts offers miles of ocean real estate perfect for clamming, crabbing, and deep-water fishing. And if that's not your style, enjoy the dozens of trails and seaside parks. Have a picnic at the Cape Lookout, and if you're feeling up for it, hike the Cape Trail.

Further up the shore by Oceanside, explore Tunnel Beach, which features giant rock formations you can walk through. Or search the tide pools up at Lost Boy Beach and find some treasures. Close by is the Short Beach trailhead, which leads to Larson Creek Falls. Rent kayaks and float along the waves, or rent a boat and sail out to the Three Arch Rocks Wildlife Refuge. You can also spot seals and sea lions if you're lucky.

Back in town, dine at Schooner Restaurant and Lounge and enjoy fresh-caught seafood and delicious drinks. Brought an RV? Set up camp at the Netarts Bay Garden RV Resort, which offers beach access, firepits, boat rentals, and shellfish gear rentals. If you come in just a car, check out the Oceanfront Cabins in Oceanside, which look out at the sea and are right beside the Blue Agate cafe and the Oceanside Beach State Park.

Explore Oregon: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Rich History

Oregon isn't just known for its stunning coast, as it is also home to centuries of history, including the Oregon Trail. It has something for everybody, whether it be families, couples, or retirees. Whether you want to get out and feel the ocean breeze in your hair or keep it lowkey and browse the streets of small towns and learn about their past, Oregon has the place for you. Want to know the best times to travel or even more places to stop and take in the sights? Browse the WorldAtlas site and plan out the perfect trip.

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21 Things to do in Portland Oregon with Teenagers

A re you looking for a fun and unforgettable adventure with your teenage kids in Portland, Oregon? Here are the top things to do and places to visit in the city that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Portland is full of amazing attractions that cater to families with teens. From thrilling outdoor activities that provide an adrenaline rush to family-friendly museums and landmarks that offer a unique glimpse into the region’s history and culture, Portland has it all. So buckle up and prepare to have a lot of fun!

21 Fun Things to do in Portland with Teenagers

1) visit the columbia river gorge national scenic area.

Hiking the Oneonta Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is approximately 30 minutes east of Portland and covers a stretch of 292,500 acres filled with hikes and scenic overlooks. It is the perfect place for families who love camping, fishing, biking, and hiking. One of the most popular hikes is the Multnomah Falls, which is the highest waterfall in the state. The gorge has more than 90 waterfalls you can visit with your teenagers !

2) Experience the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry offers children and young adults engaging experiences with permanent and rotating exhibits, plus a planetarium and Giant Screen theater. The museum is interactive, and many of the exhibits are hands-on, encouraging visitors to touch and engage with displays. There’s something for everyone to learn at OMSI as it provides a fun and educational experience.

3) Take a Bike Tour with Pedal Bike Tours

Pedal Bike Tours offers family-friendly bike tours throughout Portland that take you through the city’s notable attractions. The tours allow you to ride through Portland while experiencing its unique culture and history. The company provides unique services for different sizes of groups that can cater to your family’s specific interests and needs.

4) Go on a Food Tour

One of the best things about Portland is its food scene; it’s unique, diverse, and delicious! There is no better way to experience Portland’s food scene than taking a food tour with Eat Adventures Food Tours. The food tour features top-rated restaurants and food carts in the city and offers a great opportunity to sample delicious foods that you might never find on your own. You will become acquainted with Portland’s vibrant culinary environment while satisfying your taste buds!

• Food Cart Tour
• Doughnut Tour

5) Ground Kontrol

Ground Kontrol is an amazing arcade located in Portland, Oregon that is perfect for teenagers. It has over 100 classic arcade games including pinball machines, video games, and more. They also have a full bar and restaurant, so teens can enjoy a meal or snack while playing their favorite games.

6) Oregon Zoo

The Oregon Zoo is a great place for teens to explore the wonders of nature. It features over 1,000 animals from around the world, as well as exhibits on conservation and sustainability. Teens can also take part in educational programs such as animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.

7) Voodoo Doughnuts

Voodoo Doughnuts is an iconic Portland doughnut shop that offers some of the most creative and delicious doughnuts around. Teens will love the unique flavors such as bubblegum-filled maple bars and grape Ape donuts with purple frosting!

8) Go Shopping on Hawthorne

Hawthorne Street is home to some of the best shopping in Portland. Teens can find everything from vintage clothing to cool art galleries here, making it the perfect spot to pick up something unique and special for themselves or their friends back home.

9) Hopscotch Portland

Discover the captivating world of Hopscotch Portland, where over fifty local, national, and international artists come together to craft awe-inspiring large-scale installations. Immerse yourself in a multidimensional journey that blends art, technology, and imagination, offering a unique and interactive experience for guests of all ages.

10) Oaks Park

Oaks Park is a great spot for teens looking for some outdoor fun! The park features roller coasters, bumper cars, a roller rink, carnival games, and more! There’s plenty of food available too – perfect for refueling after a day of fun activities!

11) Top Golf

Top Golf is an interactive driving range where teens can practice their golf skills while having a blast with friends! Players hit microchipped balls at targets to earn points – the higher you score the better your rewards will be!

12) The People’s Courts

The People’s Courts offer a variety of recreational amenities, including five full-size Pickleball courts, two “skinny singles” courts, and a unique “dinkum” court. Additionally, there are five Bocce Ball courts, six to ten Ping Pong tables, and six to ten Cornhole courts. For gamers, there is an arcade with both classic and modern games. The facility also boasts a distinctive nine-hole putt-putt style Disc Golf course, and a well-curated pro-shop. Outside, you’ll find six additional Pickleball courts, as well as a covered seating area where you can enjoy food, drinks, and socializing.

13) Have Lunch at a Food Cart Pod

Food cart pods are popular spots throughout Portland where locals gather to enjoy delicious meals from local vendors at reasonable prices – perfect for teen budgets! Whether they’re looking for tacos or teriyaki bowls these carts offer something for everyone’s taste buds!

14) Skycart Indoor Racing

Skycart Indoor Racing offers an exciting way for teens to experience racing without ever having to leave town! Players race electric karts around a track while trying to beat their opponents’ times – it’s sure to be an adrenaline rush like no other experience out there!

15) Portland Pickles Baseball Games

Teens who love baseball won’t want to miss out on catching a game with the Portland Pickles minor league team at Walker Stadium in Lents Park this summer season – it’s sure to be an unforgettable time cheering them on from the stands or even playing catch with them afterward if lucky enough!

16) Stumptown Escape Games

Stumptown Escape Games offer exciting real-life escape room experiences that require players to work together using clues and puzzles in order to solve riddles before time runs out – it’s sure to be an intense but thrilling adventure that will test their problem-solving skills like never before!

17) Quarterworld Arcade & Bar

Quarterworld Arcade & Bar offers classic arcade games like Pac-Man and pinball machines alongside craft beer selections all under one roof – making it the perfect spot for teens looking for some retro gaming fun.

18) Guardian Games Board Game Cafe & Bar

Guardian Games Board Game Cafe & Bar offers one of the largest selections of board games in town along with snacks and drinks (again 21+). Teens can challenge each other over classic board games like Monopoly or try out new ones they’ve never heard of before – either way they’re sure to have lots of laughs along the way during their visit here!

19) Cloud Cap Games

Cloud Cap Games provides both virtual reality experiences as well as traditional board games such as Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering , Settlers Of Catan , etc . so there’s something here no matter what type of gamer your teen may be!

20) Punch Bowl Social

Punch Bowl Social

Punchbowl Social is an extraordinary bowling alley nestled within the vibrant Pioneer Place Mall. With thoughtfully spaced bowling lanes, it promises an intimate and exclusive experience. Moreover, their private karaoke rooms provide the ultimate opportunity to showcase your vocal talents, exclusively enjoyed by you and your closest companions. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere with two bars, each exuding its own unique charm, and a delightful restaurant to satiate your cravings. Additionally, indulge in various recreational activities such as pool, darts, ping pong, shuffleboard, and relive the glory days with classic arcade games like ski ball. 

21) Take a Scenic Drive through the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

Your teenagers will love the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge located on the east side of the Willamette River in Portland. The refuge is a 141-acre wetland area that provides hiking, bird-watching, and biking opportunities for families. Visitors trace the path of the seasonal floodwaters, watch birds in the water, and gaze at the footwear of bald eagles (when in season). You can explore the wildlife refuge together in a fun and relaxing way.

Conclusion:

Portland, Oregon, is an amazing place for families with teenagers. With its vibrant culture, beautiful scenery, and breathtaking attractions, the city offers a broad range of experiences for all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, visiting historic landmarks and museums, or experiencing new tastes and flavors, Portland has it all. Explore and create unforgettable memories with your family. You’ll be glad you did!

33 Things to do in Portland Oregon with Young Children

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner ! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo , another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO .

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator . If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar . They’ve got fantastic weekly deals.

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit ! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars .