what places to visit in oregon

25 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Oregon

Written by Brad Lane Updated Aug 1, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Oregon is a state of adventurous landscapes. From the coast to the mountains and the Oregon high desert, vacations to the state traverse all types of terrain. The multitude of places to visit and things to do in Oregon can make planning a getaway overwhelming until you have a complete picture of everything Oregon offers.

A few beautiful places in Oregon include an ancient lake created by a volcanic eruption, a luscious gorge streaming with waterfalls, and several impressive sea stacks jutting out of the ocean. These scenic attractions are spread throughout the state, leading to memorable road trips and excursions.

In addition to its natural beauty, Oregon is equally known for its urban charms. The state's largest city, Portland, has an international reputation for drawing tourists with an offbeat and welcoming culture. The top things to do in Portland range from visiting rose gardens and art museums to browsing an immense bookshop. And this cultural capital is only one of many of the best cities in Oregon .

Plan your summer or winter trip to Oregon with our list of the top attractions and places to visit.

1. Crater Lake National Park

2. columbia river gorge national scenic area, 3. cannon beach, 4. washington park, portland, 5. mount hood national forest, 8. hood river, 9. samuel h. boardman state scenic corridor, brookings, 10. smith rock state park, terrebonne, 11. oregon shakespeare festival, ashland, 12. newport, 13. sisters, 14. silver falls state park, sublimity, 15. depoe bay, 16. newberry national volcanic monument, 17. klamath falls, 18. oregon dunes national recreation area, 19. hells canyon national recreation area, 20. oregon coast trail, 21. willamette national forest, 22. willamette heritage center at the mill, salem, 23. jordan schnitzer museum of art, eugene, 24. oregon caves national monument and preserve, 25. medford.

Crater Lake National Park lies in the Cascade Mountains of southwestern Oregon. Its landscape is like nowhere else. It's not actually a crater but rather an ancient caldera of an extinct volcano, Mount Mazama, which erupted over 7,000 years ago. Today, lava cliffs rise 2,000 feet around the sky-blue, seemingly bottomless lake.

The easiest way to see and visit Crater Lake is along Rim Drive , circumnavigating the entire lake. The route begins at Rim Village , home to the Crater Lake Lodge and Rim Village Visitor Center. Rim Drive is only drivable in the warm weather months (typically mid-July to Mid-October). Snowshoers and cross-country skiers utilize the unplowed road for winter travel throughout winter.

Crater Lake National Park is home to some of Oregon's best hiking trails . Stunning trails like Watchman Peak give great views of the caldera, while more moderate options stem from Rim Village via paved sidewalks. And extended hiking and backpacking opportunities, including the country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail, present themselves away from the rim.

To access the water in the summer, head to Cleetwood Cove , where cruises depart for Wizard Island. Camping is also available at two developed campgrounds, with most sites found at the Mazama Campground , located in the Mazama Village.

Southern Oregon has a lot more to explore outside the national park. Crater Lake is surrounded by wild places like Umpqua National Forest and Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest , featuring hundreds of more miles of hiking trails to explore. And Crater Lake is at the northern end of the spectacular 500-mile, state-spanning Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway .

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area follows the course of the Columbia River as it cuts through the Cascade Range. This stunning river gorge is the boundary line between Oregon and Washington. It falls within a thirty-minute drive from Portland and is best known for its spectacular views and numerous waterfalls.

Traveling along the Historic Columbia River Highway through the gorge offers a slower pace than the adjacent Interstate 84. This historic corridor has several roadside attractions and is a popular route to explore via bicycle.

The tallest waterfall in the state, Multnomah Falls, is perhaps the most iconic display of gravity in the Columbia River Gorge. Alongside a dazzling two-tier waterfall, the area around Multnomah offers a range of hiking and biking trails, plus camping facilities . It's also home to the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge , built in 1925, and is still a popular place to dine or stay the night.

Multnomah Falls is one of the most popular day trips from Portland , but not even close to the only waterfall to check out in the gorge. One of the many other great destinations to aim for is Punchbowl Falls on Eagle Creek. This iconic waterfall doesn't drop anywhere close to the same distance as Multnomah Falls, but it arguably leaves an even better impression.

Author's Tip : New Time Use Permits have been in place for the past few years, requiring visitors to reserve parking spots during peak visiting season (May 26 th – September 4 th ). You can bypass the need for a permit with different transportation means. Check out all the options with the From Portland to Multnomah Falls: 5 Best Ways to Get There guide.

Cannon Beach is a popular tourist destination on the northern Oregon coast with a vast stretch of sand and spectacular views of jagged coastal rocks. Haystack Rock is the largest of these sea stacks and is a constant presence during any visit to this coastal community.

Alongside spectacular ocean scenery, Cannon Beach also delivers cultural appeal with restaurants, boutique shops, and great hotels. This combination of culture, community, and ocean access earns Cannon Beach its reputation as one of the best small towns on the Oregon Coast ,

To the north of Cannon Beach, the enchanting Ecola State Park and Tillamook Head encompass historic and scenic landscapes to explore, including a trail that follows the path of Lewis and Clark. The charming city of Seaside is on the other end of Ecola State Park, offering more days of family-friendly travel along the coast.

Portland offers a bevy of delightful parks and gardens, but none has quite the density of attractions as Washington Park. Within park grounds, the famed International Rose Test Garden is located near the impressive Portland Japanese Garden . Both display exceptional horticultural expertise and are favorites with green thumbs.

Washington Park is also home to the Oregon Zoo , Hoyt Arboretum , World Forestry Center Discovery Museum , and a popular Rose Garden Children's Playground . And even without these attractions, Pacific Northwest splendor imbues the entire park with a dense landscape of foliage and nature.

The park is also next to the expansive Forest Park , encompassing approximately 1,300 acres, and home to some of the best hiking trails in the Portland area . Plan to spend the whole day exploring this urban respite in the middle of the city.

Author's Tip : Parking is scarce in parts of Washington Park, particularly nearest the International Rose Test Garden and Portland Japanese Garden. A free Washington Park shuttle operates within the park daily between April and September, and several public transit options bridge the gap between downtown and the park.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Portland, Oregon

Mount Hood is the highest mountain in Oregon, with a peak rising to 11,239 feet. This enormity makes the mountain an unmistakable landmark of the state, seen from miles in every direction. On clear days, it provides a brilliant backdrop for the city of Portland to the east.

Mount Hood National Forest encompasses the entire mountain and much of its flanks. This public space offers all types of adventures. On the mountain slopes are downhill offerings at Mount Hood Skibowl , picturesque hiking paths like the Timberline Trail , and scenic viewpoints accessible via the Mount Hood Scenic Loop. The nation-spanning Pacific Crest Trail also crosses the southwest flank of the mountain.

The historic town of Government Camp and the nearby Timberline Lodge are big attractions in this mountain landscape. The reflective Trillium Lake offers a postcard setting and a great mountain view. Mount Hood National Forest fans out from the peak to encompass waterfalls and hot springs.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Mt. Hood National Forest

Bend sits roughly in the center of Oregon, edged by a mix of national forests, volcanoes, and dry plains. The city's High Desert Museum has informative displays about the surrounding arid regions.

Popular things to do in Bend include rafting trips on the Deschutes River, excursions to the volcanic landscapes of Lava Butte and Newberry National Volcanic Monument , and skiing at the large Mount Bachelor Ski Area . For an iconic waterfall of the area, Tumalo Falls can be reached from Bend in just over a 10-mile drive.

Also nearby, Smith Rock is famous with climbers for its many routes and long history as a rock-climbing destination. Hiking trails around Bend are a great way to explore these scenic areas, and mountain biking trails also add to the excitement.

For a more laid-back approach, Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a popular auto-touring route through the Deschutes National Forest. The drive passes lakes, mountains, and spectacular scenery with many picnic spots and campsites available along the way.

Astoria is a charming seaside city with inspiring surroundings in the far northwest corner of Oregon, near the end of the Columbia River before it meets the ocean. Although smaller, it's called the San Francisco of Oregon, thanks to its seaside status and vibrant downtown district filled with a community flavor.

Movie fans may recognize Astoria as the backdrop for the 80s cult-classic movie, The Goonies . Visitors to Astoria can learn more about this movie and other Oregon productions at the Oregon Film Museum , located in the old Clatsop County Jail.

Nearby, the Astoria Flavel House Museum provides historical insight into this well-aged city. Other top attractions of Astoria include the scenic Riverfront and the Astoria Column, both with great views of the area.

The scenic city of Hood River is on the banks of the Columbia River just over an hour east of Portland. It is a great place for sightseeing and outdoor sports and is well-known as a destination for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Other common things to do in this adventurous region include hiking, biking, and camping .

The city is also well regarded for its emerging culinary scene. Menus are often bolstered by fresh ingredients from the adjacent Hood River Valley. Even more tastes of the region are found on the 35-mile Fruit Loop , which runs from the city into the agricultural fields to the south.

Visitors wanting a little less physical activity can easily hop on the Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway to explore a lush world of waterfalls. The Mount Hood Railroad also departs from Hood River and travels 17 miles to Odell, with Mount Hood in view the entire way.

The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a 12-mile linear park between Brookings and Gold Beach on the southern Oregon coast. This stunning coastal corridor exhibits some of the best oceanside scenery in the state.

The park is named after the first Oregon Parks superintendent and is easily accessible from US 101. Various pull-offs line the entire park, connecting beaches, rock formations, and the distinct natural beauty that defines this part of the coast. The Oregon Coast Trail also spans the entire park, offering a very challenging day hike.

Most of the pull-offs in the state park lead to steep hiking trails that quickly descend to the beach, sometimes over rough terrain. A few popular pitstops along this scenic corridor include Arch Rock; Indian Sands; and one of the best beaches on the Oregon coast , Lone Ranch Beach . This beautiful beach is easily accessible with convenient parking nearby.

Smith Rock State Park is an international climbing destination in central Oregon, near Bend. The state park has over 1,000 bolted sport routes lining a stunning river canyon environment. These routes range from beginner to finger-crimping hard, and all require proper climbing experience and gear.

It's not just climbers who flock to this outdoor playground – mountain bikers, hikers, and photographers often explore the scenic surroundings of the state park. And with a high-desert weather system, climbing and exploring Smith Rock in winter is usually a T-shirt endeavor.

For one of the best hikes in the area, head to Misery Ridge . Despite its foreboding name, the trail provides a stunning view of the Crooked River and its canyon walls.

Smith Rock State Park has an RV-exclusive campground and a walk-in area for campers and climbers.

Official site: https://smithrock.com/

The world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival takes place in Ashland for much of the year. This non-profit theater production puts on over 700 shows annually, spread across three stages, including the beautiful Allen Elizabethan Theatre. And catching any one of these performances is a quintessential Southern Oregon traveling experience.

With a season that spans February through October, alongside ample fanfare, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival greatly defines the community and culture of the surrounding city of Ashland. This is especially true in the downtown district, with Victorian-themed restaurants and shops throughout. Much of the audience tends to spill out of the theaters and onto these streets after a show.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ashland, Oregon

Family-friendly attractions line Newport on the Oregon coast, a city that mixes beach scenery with a distinct Victorian heritage. The Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center are often favorite places to visit, and to the north, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse is a beacon of coastal beauty.

Beaches abound in every direction from Newport. Its historic Nye Beach certainly ranks among the Best Beaches near Newport , with other sunset-capturing contenders like Agate Beach and South Beach State Park nearby.

The town is a good base camp for exploring the central coast and whale watching. The city's busy bayfront faces Yaquina Bay , home to a large fishing fleet. Extending from the sheltered bay, the city's wild Pacific beaches offer storm-surge rollers and unfiltered sunsets

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Newport, Oregon

Sisters is a fun western-themed town on the west side of the Cascade Mountains, approximately a 30-minute drive from Bend. It's smaller than Bend and offers a more tourist-orientated community with a centralized downtown shopping area. This downtown area has a distinct western charm circa the 1880s, with old-fashioned storefronts housing several modern retailers.

Sisters is also a major basecamp for adventures. Willamette and Deschutes National Forests dominate the landscape immediately east, offering endless adventure throughout the year. Hop on the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway , starting in sisters, for one of the best automobile loops in Oregon.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Sisters, Oregon

Silver Falls State Park is thirty minutes east of the state capital of Salem and provides perhaps the most dazzling display of waterfalls in the country. It's home to the nationally recognized Trail of Ten Falls , a moderate hiking path that tours the many water attractions of the area.

This jewel of the Oregon State Park system takes users behind a few waterfalls for an exciting perspective. One of these waterfall tunnels includes the largest waterfall in the area and one of the best waterfalls in Oregon , the stunning South Falls.

Visitors don't have to travel far to see the signature South Falls with the adjacent South Falls Day-Use Area nearby, with parking and visitor amenities like picnic tables and restrooms.

Address: 20024 Silver Falls Highway Southeast, Sublimity, Oregon

Depoe Bay is a seaside town with a stunning overlook of the Pacific Ocean. With its high vantage point and Main Street perched on the side of a cliff, it easily earns its reputation as the " Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coas t." The Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center is the first place to go for information on how to spot these massive mammals.

Alongside the ocean sounds and vistas presented along the entire western edge of the town, Depoe Bay caters to an authentic Oregon coast vacation. Local taffy shops and seafood restaurants line the charming Main Street , next to the World's Smallest Harbor, where commercial fishing trips encourage a day of adventure.

Depoe Bay also lends easy access to a stunning section of the coast. Several public access points dot the elevated Depoe Bay coastline, lending to spectacular views come sunset, and areas like the Devil's Punchbowl and Yaquina Head are within a quick drive from Depoe Bay on the 101.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Depoe Bay

The Newberry Volcanic Monument provides a plethora of unique scenery to explore within the Deschutes National Forest of Central Oregon. It's centered around the Newberry Caldera and surrounds a 1,200-square-mile volcano. A great first stop when visiting the monument is the Lava Lands Visitor Center to learn more about this thermally active area.

Popular activities at Newberry include bicycling, hiking, and boating. One of the best campgrounds in Oregon is in Newberry, and those who nab a reservation at the popular Little Crater Campground have immediate access to the welcoming waters of Paulina Lake .

Several scenic hot springs are dug into the shoreline of Paulina Lake. From the campground, this thermal area is accessible by boat ride or moderate hike next to the water. It's approximately a three-mile round trip hike on an undulating lakeshore trail to reach the hot springs on foot.

Klamath Falls is a base camp for adventure in Southern Oregon. The town is one of many stops on the state-crossing Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway . Crater Lake National Park is 90 minutes north on this bucket-list highway from Klamath Falls, and Lava Beds National Monument is less than 60 minutes south.

Outside of its nearby natural attractions, the city itself offers several attractions and things to do . The town's blessed with abundant sunshine throughout the year, and places like Moore Park and the Link River Trail offer plenty of space to explore outside.

Head to Klamath Fall's downtown district for cultural appeal, where history and modern taste combine for a fun visiting experience. Surrounding the downtown area, a collection of Klamath County Museums offers valuable insight into the region.

The dune landscape of Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area begins south of Florence and stretches along the Pacific Coast for about 40 miles before reaching Coos Bay . The National Recreation Area is within Siuslaw National Forest , near other scenic attractions such as Cape Perpetua and the Heceta Head Lighthouse.

The ocean and several pocket forests sandwich these miles of shifting dunes, offering tons of space to explore by foot or via off-highway vehicle. Popular destinations within the dunes include the Umpqua Dunes area at Winchester Bay and the sandboarding destination known as Sand Master Park in Florence.

For a great place to pitch a tent or park an RV, Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park is located south of Florence and is one of the best campgrounds on the Oregon coast . It offers a popular place to access the sand dunes with horse and off-road vehicle staging areas.

Visitors to the dunes should be aware of snowy plovers and the restrictions put in place to protect their habitat.

Hells Canyon is the deepest canyon in the United States. This rugged river canyon is in the extreme northeast of the state, straddling the Idaho border, and is managed within Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. This remote landscape is mainly inaccessible, but for the adventurous, it offers lengthy outdoor excursions like rafting and backpacking trips.

The Wild and Scenic Snake River runs at the bottom of the canyon and is a major bucket-list destination for whitewater boaters. Other popular activities at Hells Canyon include nature photography, wildlife spotting, fishing, and hiking. The Western Rim National Recreation Trail traverses the Oregon side of the canyon and provides excellent views for hikers and backpackers.

For those traveling by car, the Hells Canyon National Scenic Byway departs from Baker City and La Grande, with side trips to Hells Canyon Dam and viewpoints.

The Oregon Coast Trail (OCT) stretches for over 360 miles along the western edge of Oregon, taking in the sights, sounds, and top attractions of the Oregon coast .

Most tackle the Oregon Coast Trail in segments, doing three to five days at a time and covering 20 to 30 miles. Several campgrounds along the trail consist of state parks, with hiker/biker sites set aside. Reservations aren't needed for hiker/biker sites, though everyone has to arrive via muscle-powered transportation.

While the trail mostly sticks to beaches, hikers on the OCT navigate forested headlands, catch boat rides across estuaries, and follow along the shoulder of the US 101 for portions of the trek. Research is needed before any trip to solidify logistics like campgrounds and estuary crossings.

The vast Willamette National Forest covers nearly 1.7 million acres on the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains. The forest contains spectacular scenery, including several volcanoes, mountains, rivers, and some of the best hot springs in Oregon .

Visitors can explore trails or head to attractions such as the Dee Wright Observatory (a stone tower atop McKenzie Pass) or the 280-foot Salt Creek Falls . The famous Three Sisters Wilderness is also accessible within Willamette National Forest.

This region of the state is particularly dense with national forests. Directly to the east, the Deschutes National Forest is just as popular for recreation. And to the north, Mount Hood National Forest surrounds the impressive peak for which it's named.

Salem is the state capital of Oregon. It's within the Willamette Valley and home to historic theaters, family-favorite carousels, and an Enchanted Forest. Other top attractions of Salem include Riverfront City Park, the State Capitol building, and the Willamette Heritage Center.

The Heritage Center looks at the life and industrialization of the Willamette Valley in the late 1800s. It's spread across five acres and centers on the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill , dating to 1895. Alongside the large red structure, other historic wooden buildings are brought to life by exhibits and interpretive guides.

Address: 1313 Mill Street Southeast, Salem, Oregon

This windowless museum in Eugene is designed to protect its art treasures. The wide-reaching collection features primarily Asian artworks and pieces from America and Europe.

Opened in 1933, the museum is located on the University of Oregon campus, where other attractions include the Museum of Natural and Cultural History and a historic track at Hayward Field.

Guided tours of the museum are available on the first Saturday of every month and are included with the cost of admission.

Address: 1430 Johnson Lane, Eugene, Oregon

Official site: http://jsma.uoregon.edu/

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Eugene, Oregon

This subterranean attraction centers on a marble cave, accessible only during guided tours. The National Park Service offers a variety of tours that explore the cave, ranging from guided treks for families and kids to wild cave expeditions that veer off the typical tourist path.

Above the surface, the protected area offers hiking trails through old-growth coniferous forests. The monument sits at 4,000 feet elevation in the Siskiyou Mountains. Seventeen primitive campsites are available at the monument's Cave Creek Campground , located approximately four miles from the cave entrance.

Address: 19000 Caves Highway, Cave Junction, Oregon

Medford is the largest city in Southern Oregon and a hot spot for travel and vacations. It's the heart of the Rogue River Valley, tying the city to an agriculturally rich region and several natural playgrounds.

Outdoor adventures stemming from Medford include jet boat tours of the Rogue River and climbing to the top of the culturally significant Table Rock formations. Prescott Park is a local favorite place to explore, encompassing one of the most prominent peaks closest to the city, Roxy Ann Peak.

Medford is also a hub for culture in Southern Oregon. Its larger population lends to more shopping malls and big-box retailers. But the downtown district, with local shops lining the streets, is the best place to experience the Medford community.

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

More on Oregon

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on 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

steve estvanik / Shutterstock

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

TSLPhoto / Shutterstock

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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

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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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America From The Road

35+ Best Things To Do In Oregon (Bucket List Worthy Only)

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Oregon, look no further because this travel guide covers the state’s top attractions, best activities and highlights that are bucket list worthy only!!!

From the state’s dreamy, fog-shrouded beaches, to its formidable peaks that line the central Cascades region, and largely unexplored, handsome landscapes in the eastern half of the state, you will be captivated by Oregon’s unparalleled beauty.

In this guide you’ll learn all about Oregon’s must see places and quintessential things to do that will inspire you, and hopefully help you plan the perfect trip, no matter if you’re interested in exploring the state’s wild, windswept beaches, luxuriant evergreen forests, or rugged eastern plains.

The list begins with the best things to do in Portland , then covers the Oregon Coast, Central Oregon, and finally, Eastern Oregon . Whether you’re gliding across a tranquil lake located along Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, hiking up an enormous volcano, or on a road trip chasing waterfalls, you are guaranteed to find activities that you’ll enjoy doing on this ultimate bucket list.

Best Things To Do In The Portland Area

Photograph st. johns bridge in northwest portland.

St. Johns Bridge is a steel suspension bridge that spans the Willamette River in Portland. This bridge is the most iconic landmark in Portland, therefore is a must see for all first time visitors to the ‘City of Bridges’.

The steel structure is not only one of the most famous bridges in Oregon, but also one of the most beautiful bridges in the United States. It’s gothic arches and stunning light green color stand in contrast to the temperate forests that surround the area making it a visual delight and a photographer’s dream!

St. Johns Bridge is the pinnacle of bridge aesthetics , and stands out as increasingly rare and significant in the world of bridge design and construction. What makes this bridge incredibly beautiful and unlike others is that its beauty is solely derived from creating structural elements that are themselves attractive, rather than adding superficial decorations to an ugly structure, which is how most other bridges are designed. For example, the distinctive gothic arches in the piers and steel suspension towers of this bridge are attractive, but they also function as part of the actual structure and contribute to the strength and stability of the bridge.

The concept of making the actual bridge structure beautiful is rarely seen in modern bridge construction today, which has instead returned to the less sophisticated and less attractive concept of adding superficial decorations to bridge structures.

St. Johns Bridge is located in Cathedral Park in Northwest Portland. The park, which was named after the Gothic cathedral-like design of the bridge towers, is a great place to view the amazing architecture and decorative concrete of the bridge.

Visit Portland International Rose Test Garden

While Portland has many nicknames, the  ‘City of Roses’  is actually Portland’s official nickname. Georgina Pittock, wife of Henry Pittock, founded the Portland Rose Society in 1889 after she invited her friends over to exhibit their roses in her garden. After that, the city became obsessed with roses, planting them throughout the city.

In 1905, Portland held the Lewis and Clark Exposition, its only world fair, to attract people to the city and boost the regional economy. To attract visitors, the City of Portland planted around 10,000 bushes of the revered Madame Caroline Testout rose (a popular breed of hybrid tea rose) along Portland’s streets. At that time, there were twenty miles of rose-lined streets, and it was then that Portland was named the City of Roses.

Portland is still obsessed with roses, and this is visible at the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park. Founded in 1917, the Rose Test Garden is the oldest official continuously operating rose garden in the United States.

At the Rose Test Garden are over 10,000 rose bushes, which are typically in bloom from May through October, although June is probably the best time to view them. The month of June is also when the Portland Rose Festival takes place each year where visitors can attend carnivals and parades.

The Rose Garden has an incredible view of Portland’s skyline and of Mount Hood on clear days so be ready with your camera to capture some very beautiful moments while you’re there.

The grounds are open every day of the week from 5am to 10pm. Free guided tours are available daily at 1 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with departure from the Portland Rose Garden Store. Admission is free!

Try A Voodoo Doughnut

Voodoo Doughnuts, with their clever marketing that involves donuts slathered in brightly-colored frosting (most often topped with cereal or candy), along with their signature neon-pink boxes, have managed to become nationally famous in the world of donuts.

Founded in May of 2003, Voodoo has become a diet staple for PDX residents and a pit stop for road trippers passing through Portland on their way to the Oregon coast ever since.

The company like to think they had a hand in creating the world of gourmet donuts and were the one’s who introduced the world to the Bacon Maple Bar. Whether that’s true or not, one thing is for sure, Voodoo certainly know how to get creative with their donuts!

Currently, they have over fifty rotating flavors to choose from which get shuttled from the back bakery to the shop’s front window display at their hot-pink painted store in downtown Portland.

Fall under Voodoo’s sugary spell inside their fun and colorful store in downtown Portland which is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Chase Waterfalls In The Columbia Gorge

There are dozens of beautiful waterfalls you can visit along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Some of them require a short hike, some require a little more effort to get to, and some of the waterfalls along this scenic byway only require hopping out of your vehicle!

When people think of waterfalls in Oregon, Multnomah Falls is usually the first one that comes to mind. Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall and is also the state’s most visited natural attraction. Many tourists will agree that visiting Multnomah Falls is one of the best things to do in Oregon. Indeed, viewing the marvelous 611-foot cascade is something you’ll never forget.

Multnomah Falls is an easy day trip from Portland and can be reached via Interstate-84. The drive, which takes about thirty to forty-five minutes, will take you into the stunning Columbia River Gorge, a region loaded with natural beauty, endless outdoor opportunities, and best known for its high concentration of waterfalls.

If you make the effort to visit Multnomah Falls, you may as well spend the day chasing other waterfalls in the area. Some of the other waterfalls you must see include Latourell Falls, Ponytail Falls, Horsetail Falls, and Tunnel Falls.

There are loads of other cool things to do in the Columbia River Gorge such as visiting the Bonneville Fish Hatchery, visiting the Bonneville Dam, or seeing the Bridge of the Gods to name a few.

Best Things To Do On The Oregon Coast

See the iconic haystack rock.

No trip to the Oregon Coast would be complete without seeing Haystack Rock. The iconic sea stack which sits just off Cannon Beach, is one of the most photographed destinations in Oregon. You may have seen this famous landmark in several popular films including The Goonies, Point Break, Kindergarten Cop, and Free Willy.

National Geographic once named Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach one of the world’s most beautiful places. With accolades like that, you certainly can’t miss an opportunity to visit this charming seaside village on the Northern Oregon Coast.

Cannon Beach has a lot more to offer than its wide sandy beach and prominent rock. The downtown area is lined with boutique stores, artisan shops, and restaurants that are housed inside buildings clad with weathered cedar shingles. There are numerous beach related activities and festivals held throughout the year, and hiking opportunities abound in the surrounding forests.

Because of this destination’s close proximity to Portland, Cannon Beach is very popular as a day trip destination or weekend getaway spot for Portlanders. Therefore, you can expect this place to be busy most weekends throughout the year. Yes, even in winter! Oregonians, particularly those that live on the coast, aren’t afraid of a little rain.

Sample Cheese At Tillamook Creamery

Have you heard of Tillamook Cheese? If you live in the Pacific Northwest you most certainly have. More than likely you’ve heard of this cheese company even if you hail from the east coast where there is a lot more competition. But if you are an international visitor to the U.S., you may not be familiar with one of the leading cheese producers in the nation.

Let me introduce you to Tillamook County Creamery Association, a farmer-owned co-op that produces award-winning cheese, as well as some of the best ice cream in the country! Their most popular product is the Tillamook Cheddar, a cheese that won the gold medal in the 2010 World Cheese Championship Contest hosted by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association in Madison, Wisconsin. This cheese scored an impressive 99.6 out of 100 points.

The acclaimed cheesemakers have their roots in Tillamook where they are still based to this day. Tillamook, located on the Oregon Coast, is not only home to the company’s headquarters and main production facility, but is also home to an extremely popular Visitor Center that hosts over one million visitors each year.

At the creamery, tourists can learn all about cheesemaking, watch the production of cheesemaking, and see the cheese packaging process in action. Tours of the facility are self guided and best of all, free!

At the end of the tour, guests can sample some of Tillamook’s most popular cheese varieties including cheddar and pepper jack, but the favorite with tourists here is the squeaky cheese curds.

No trip to Tillamook or Oregon’s northern coast is complete without a stop at the creamery! Fortunately, the Tillamook Creamery is located right on U.S. Highway 101 which makes it the perfect addition to your Oregon Coast road trip itinerary!!

Witness Churning Ocean Waves Spew Through Thor’s Well

About halfway down (or up) the Oregon Coast, is a seemingly bottomless sinkhole that continuously swallows up the seawater that surrounds it. This sinkhole is known as Thor’s Well, a natural wonder that has been attracting visitors to Cape Perpetua Scenic Area for many years.

The sinkhole is obviously not bottomless. It is actually a result of a sea cave collapsing that created an opening in the rock from which the ocean sprays during high tide. At high tide, and particularly during storms, Thor’s Well becomes a sight to behold, spewing and swallowing the ocean waves. Photographers especially flock to the natural landmark to capture the violent eruptions and churning waters. If you do decide to visit, you need to be very careful as there is a real danger of getting swept away during high tides.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is situated in the Siuslaw National Forest, a place where you can experience dreamy coastal Oregon landscapes complete with towering trees shrouded in coastal fog, frothy surf, and majestic headlands that appear as far as the eye can see.

Travel Tip:  The best time to visit Thor’s Well is one hour before high tide to see it without water and then observe how the formation fills up once the tide rises.

Visit Samuel H. Boardman State Park

Samuel H. Boardman State Park is one of the most well-known destinations on the Oregon coast noted for its dramatic craggy bluffs, sea stacks, and secluded beaches.

The state park is situated right off Highway 101 and runs for twelve miles along the coast between Gold’s Beach and Brookings. This stretch of the highway features one turnoff after another, each with amazing vistas and viewpoints, access to picnic areas, as well as access to trailheads that connect to the eighteen mile long Oregon Coast Trail.

One of the most photographed places in this state park is known as Natural Bridges, a series of seven iconic arch rocks and blowholes that can be seen at the end of a short trail that begins at the Natural Bridges turnout.

Visiting Samuel H. Boardman State Park is one of the top things to do in Oregon. Whether you stop for some quick photos, hike part of the coast trail, or spend some time camping in the area, you surely won’t regret making the effort to visit this stunning Oregon destination.

Best Things To Do In Central Oregon

Find the blue pool.

Tamolitch Falls , which is famously known as the Blue Pool , is a popular summer destination for hikers and photographers, as well as a top bucket list destination for tourists road tripping through Oregon.

The sapphire waters of the Blue Pool are so vibrant and clear that they almost don’t seem real. It’s glassy waters are deceiving; the clarity of the water creates the illusion that the pool is only around five feet deep, however the pool is actually closer to thirty feet in depth.

Although the hiking trail to Tamolitch Falls is accessible year round, the best time to see the Blue Pool is during summer as this is when there is the best chance of having blue skies. Why is this important? Because on overcast days, the pool does not appear as brilliant as it does under clear skies.

The hike out to Tamolitch Falls is only 4.2 miles out and back, and is mostly flat with very little elevation gain which means hikers of all fitness levels can easily complete this trail. As mentioned earlier, the Blue Pool is very popular with both Oregonians and out of state visitors so you can expect the trail to be busy, especially on weekends throughout summer. Be prepared to arrive early!

>> Read: How To Hike To Tamolitch Falls: Oregon’s Famous Blue Pool

Drive Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is Oregon’s most scenic drive featuring show stopping mountain peaks, formidable volcanoes, and dazzling alpine lakes. This road trip takes motorists through the central Cascades region of Oregon which is an outdoor lover’s paradise!

Outdoor recreation abounds along this stunning stretch offering endless hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, fishing, and camping opportunities. Photographers will also be in heaven traveling through this landscape full of dark green forests, bright green meadows, big blue skies, and interesting volcanic landscapes.

The sixty-six mile scenic drive begins in Bend, and it won’t be too long before you round a curve in the road where a stunning view of Mount Bachelor emerges. Soon after this magnificent sight, Broken Top and South Sister mountains will appear which is when you’ll be truly awestruck.

Some of Oregon’s most picturesque lakes can be found along Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway like tranquil Sparks Lake and the vividly-colored Devil’s Lake.

While the drive can easily be completed in one day, it is best to allocate at least two days to spending time in this area so you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, or camping.

>> Read: Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway: Where Oregon’s Alpine Lakes & Snowcapped Peaks Are Showstoppers

Summit South Sister

The South Sister hiking trail is a bucket list hike in Oregon for many hikers. Not only is it one of the most challenging hikes in the USA, but it’s also one of the most rewarding because of the incredible views that can be seen from the mountain’s summit. On a clear day you can almost see every peak in the eastern half of the Cascade Range including Mount Washington, Three Fingered Jack, Mount Jefferson, and even Mt Hood.

This twelve mile return trip hike leads to the summit of Oregon’s third tallest summit, South Sister, which stands at 10,363 feet. Its sister mountains, North Sister and Middle Sister, are the fourth and fifth highest peaks in Oregon. Unlike its sister peaks, South Sister has an uneroded summit crater which you can walk around once you reach the top.

South Sister is actually a volcano that last erupted two thousand years ago. Its peak and flanks are home to some of the last remaining glaciers in Oregon. Sitting below the summit is Teardrop Lake, the highest lake in the state.

Of course this hike is no stroll in the park. It is very challenging to say the least, but summiting one of Oregon’s most iconic peaks will be an accomplishment you can brag about for years to come. If you’re interested in learning more about this trail such as when is the best time to hike, whether you need a permit, and what to expect, see this guide to hiking South Sister Mountain .

Tick Crater Lake National Park Off Your National Park Bucket List

If one of your life long goals is to tick off every national park in the United States , then visiting Crater Lake National Park obviously needs to be on your Oregon bucket list.

Established in 1902, Crater Lake is the fifth oldest national park in the United States, and the only national park in Oregon. The park protects Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States. At 1,949 feet deep, Crater Lake is not only the deepest lake in the U.S., but also the ninth deepest lake in the world.

This striking blue lake actually sits inside the caldera of an ancient volcano which was created about 7,700 years ago when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of Mount Mazama’s peak. Mount Mazama, which originally had an elevation of about 12,000 feet, was reduced to 8,157 feet after the volcanic eruption. The eruption is the largest that has happened within the Cascade Volcanic Arc in the last one million years. Although Mazama is currently dormant, some scientists believe eruptions in the future are very likely.

One of the coolest things about Crater Lake is how unbelievably blue and clear its waters are. The lake’s color and clarity is due to the fact that it is entirely fed by rain and snow only. Crater Lake has no streams flowing into or out of it which is what makes it one of the most pristine lakes on earth.

Crater Lake is best visited in summer because this is when the park’s popular Rim Drive is fully open. The scenic thirty-three mile road loops around Crater Lake offering breathtaking lake and forest views, plus access to panoramic vista points, picnic sites, and hiking trails.

>> Read: Best National Parks To Visit In Summer And Why

Best Things To Do In Eastern Oregon

Attend the pendleton round up, oregon’s largest rodeo event.

Thousands of people flock to Pendleton annually in the second week of September for the week long rodeo event that is the Pendleton Round Up . The Pendleton Round Up has been running since 1910 and has grown to become one of the best and biggest rodeo events in the USA.

The week begins with a dress up parade held on the Saturday before round up week, followed by the Outdoor Kick-Off Concert which is held in the arena. Previous artists have included country legends like Reba McIntire, George Strait and Scott McCreery.

Events during Round Up week include bareback bronc riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, steer roping, steer wrestling, team roping and tie-down roping. The All-Around Cowboy award goes to the competitor who earns the most prize money in more than one event.

Strong Native American participation is one of the many draws to the annual roundup. The Happy Canyon Night Show, which celebrated its 106th anniversary earlier this year in 2022, begins with the portrayal of the early American Indian culture and depicts the settling of the American West. North of the stadium is where you’ll find the largest annual Indian encampment in North America, set up by members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indians.

Pendleton Round Up is held in Pendleton, and visiting during the event is one of the best times to visit the city (besides during the weekend of Pendleton Whisky Fest) because the main street closes down for the entire week to become a carnival grounds hosting vendors, live music and other nightly shows.

Be Amazed By The Painted Hills

Vivid greens, fiery reds, burnt orange, and shimmering pink and gold colors cover the landscape at this surreal Oregon destination. It’s not hard to see why the Painted Hills are one of the ‘7 Wonders of Oregon’.

The Painted Hills get their name from the intensely-colored stratification in the soil which can be seen splashed across the hillsides here. Different volcanic eruptions and changing climate patterns mixed with different soils, mineral, and plant matter, over the ages resulting in what can be seen here today.

At the Painted Hills, visitors can view colorful hills and mountains from several viewpoints. There are also a few short hiking trails including a boardwalk that leads visitors between two intensely painted mounds known as the Painted Cove.

The Painted Hills are part of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, along with the Clarno Unit and the Sheeprock Unit. All three units are worth visiting if you are in the area and have time on your travel itinerary. There is also a great museum nearby called Thomas Condon Paleontology Center where you can learn all about the tropical landscape and large mammals that dominated this part of the state once upon a time.

Take A Drive Along The Highest Road In Oregon

Steens Mountain, in the remote southeast corner of Oregon, stretches some fifty miles from north to south, rising steeply from the desert floor. This impressive mountain, which has a summit elevation of 9,738 feet, is curiously not part of any mountain range, but is just a single mountain – the largest fault block mountain in North America.

There is a 52 mile-long road named Steens Mountain Backcountry Byway which takes adventuring motorists to the mountain’s summit along the highest road in Oregon, providing access to spectacular scenic viewpoints that look over Kiger Gorge and the Alvord Desert below.

This mountain sits inside the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area which offers outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities that include hiking, backpacking, fishing, and camping.

Camp Out On The Alvord Desert Floor

The Alvord Desert is a twelve by seven mile wide, dry lake bed that sits on the eastern side of towering Steens Mountain. Here, snow-capped peaks soar high above the salt flats of this desert playa.

The parched desert landscape which sees on average seven inches of rain per year, is unlike anywhere else in Oregon. This region is stark, desolate, and one of the least visited destinations in Oregon. There are few landmarks in the area, and even fewer towns. However, this does not mean you shouldn’t make the effort to visit.

As a matter of fact, Alvord Desert’s desolation and remoteness are exactly the reasons you need to plan a trip out here. In a world where social media has seemingly put every little-known outdoor destination on the map for many people, the Alvord Desert has managed to stay under the radar.

What this means is visitors who choose to explore Oregon’s remote corner will find a world of solitude, silence, dark skies, and bright stars. One of the best ways to enjoy the Alvord Desert is to camp out on its cracked desert floor. Kick back in your camp chair and watch the sun set behind North America’s largest fault block mountain before the stars come out to play. If you’re patient, you’re likely to see several shooting stars. And sunrise? You’ll have to see it for yourself.

In case all of the above wasn’t enough to convince you to plan a trip to the Alvord Desert, perhaps the five hot springs that are located around the perimeter of the desert will be enough to persuade you to start packing your bags.

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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. There is hardly room to do justice to all the wonderful places to eat in Portland in this article, so check out our suggestions for all the best locally-owned and loved restaurants in Portland.

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. If you're thinking about a trip to Willamette Valley, check out our first timer's guide to the region.

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. For more of the best things to do in Ashland, check out our guide to this fun city.

This article was first published Dec 8, 2021 and updated Apr 17, 2024.

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12 Best Places to Visit in Oregon

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on July 1, 2024

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.

Map of Places to Visit in Oregon

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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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22 Things to Do in Oregon — From Coastal Bike Routes to Canyon Hikes

Rugged coastline, starry night skies, and local breweries — these are the best places to visit in Oregon.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

There's a reason why hundreds of thousands of pioneers braved the Oregon Trail in the mid-1800s. At the end of the roughly 2,000-mile route was Oregon — a state with a little bit of everything , from lush, fertile valleys where berries, pears, plums, and cherries thrive, to expansive high deserts and wild coastlines. And let's not forget the skyscraper-high waterfalls (many flow all year round) and the fact that in modern-day Oregon, you can ski on a potentially active stratovolcano.

There's plenty to see and do — so where do you start? We sifted through the state's 11 national forests , 361 state parks, quaint small towns , and unique sites to determine the best of the best. Here are 22 things to do in Oregon.

Willamette National Forest

Situated between Eugene and Bend is the expansive Willamette National Forest (clocking in at a whopping 1,678,031 acres). Within the wooded expanse are eight wilderness areas, seven volcanic mountain peaks, and enough waterfalls to keep even the biggest cascade lover entertained for days.

Alvord Hot Springs

Two pools dating back to the 1940s sit at the edge of the Alvord Desert, near the eastern base of Steens Mountain. Day trippers and overnight guests at the Alvord Hot Springs Bath House & Campground can soak the day away in one of the state's most renowned and historic geothermal springs. (The water comes out of the ground at 170 degrees, cooling when mixed in the soaking pools.)

Owyhee Canyonlands

Those looking for a remote, off-the-grid getaway will find it in the Owyhee Canyonlands in southeastern Oregon. Here, hikers will discover a side of Oregon not seen by most travelers — a place of deep canyons, petroglyphs, and bighorn sheep. And thanks to its remote, dark-sky locale, the stargazing is out of this world .

Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon holds the title as the deepest river gorge in North America , topping even the Grand Canyon. In addition to being over a mile deep, the canyon is 10 miles wide. Visitors to the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (managed by the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest) can float the mighty Snake River and hike along the rim.

Timberline Trail

If you're an experienced hiker with a penchant for adventure, make your way to the Timberline Trail on Mount Hood. The 41.4-mile loop fully circumnavigates the stratovolcano, taking those willing to put in the work through alpine meadows, Cascade forests, and glacial-fed drainages. If you don't have time to do the full trail, you can do just a segment — including one that overlaps with the iconic Pacific Crest Trail.

Multnomah Falls

One of the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls in the state is Multnomah Falls , a cascade found just off the interstate in the Columbia River Gorge. The best time to see the falls is in the winter and spring, when the flow of water is at its peak.

The oldest city in Oregon (founded in 1811) remains one of the state's most stunning, with a location on the Columbia River, near the Pacific Ocean. In addition to offering views for days, Astoria has a distinct Scandinavian feel , plenty of local breweries, and a rich history.

Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Cottonwood Canyon State Park is known for its wide-open expanse of grasslands cut by canyons and cliffs carved by the John Day River. It's the place to go for year-round camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting — the 8,000-plus acre park houses elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, and bighorn sheep.

Ecola State Park

Misty mornings are common in Ecola State Park , a piece of land that stretches nine miles along the rugged Oregon coast. Sea stacks shoot out of the sand, surfers line up along the break, and hikers meander along the park's network of trails — including an 8-mile segment of the Oregon Coast Trail.

While not the state's capital, Portland is easily Oregon's most famous city. Food trucks, hip coffee houses, breweries, and donut shops seem to be everywhere, but no trip is complete without a visit to the Portland Japanese Garden and an afternoon spent perusing Powell's Books , the world's largest independent bookstore.

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort has the highest base elevation of any ski area in Oregon, which makes for lots of snow and great skiing in the winter and wonderfully cool temperatures in the summer. In addition to everything the resort offers, the Anthony Lakes area is home to 15 lakes and marshes set amongst the stunning Blue Mountains.

Just an hour east of Portland is the small, but growing community of Hood River . It's the place to try your hand at windsurfing (the town is often called the windsurfing capital of the world, after all) followed by a farm-to-table dinner and locally made beer and wine.

Devils Punch Bowl

The Oregon coast is a wild place, and nowhere is that more apparent than at the Devils Punch Bowl . In the winter, the ocean collides with the punch bowl (a hollow rock formation resembling a huge punch bowl) creating a thunderous roar and a dramatic churning of water. The area is also home to great tidepools, surfing, and whale watching.

Crater Lake National Park

The heart of Crater Lake National Park is Crater Lake, which was formed by a collapsed volcano and is now the deepest lake in the U.S. (the average depth is 1,943 feet ). You can drive around the lake, which is fed by rain and snow, and scope out Wizard Island near the lake's western edge.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

To time travel to ancient Oregon, you only need to visit the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument , a series of colorful rock formations that have recorded climate changes and planet and animal evolutions for millions of years.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach may be small, but it makes up for its size with a landscape that includes long, sandy shores, tide pools, and the iconic Haystack Rock, a giant sea stack that houses tufted puffins. The town has plenty of galleries and boutiques to keep you entertained once you're done exploring the area's wild coastline.

The Oregon Trail

The Oregon National Historic Trail , better known as "the Oregon Trail" traverses through six states, but the trail's ultimate destination was and is the state of Oregon. Multiple sites in the state transport you back to the days when brave pioneers slowly made their way west of the Rocky Mountains.

Oregon Caves

Going inside the Siskiyou Mountains is more than doable thanks to the Oregon Caves , also known as the "Marble Halls of Oregon." Twisted passageways make their way through the marble-like rock leading to jaw-dropping caves.

Mt. Bachelor Ski and Snowboard Resort

With over 460 inches of snowfall a year (on average) and a ski season that lasts much longer than most, Mt. Bachelor has made a name for itself across the country. Plus, once summer hits, the mountain morphs into a mountain biker's paradise.

Oregon Coast Bike Route

Most people do only a segment of the 370-mile Oregon Coast Bike Route , but the full route is doable — and truly enjoyable. The journey is best undertaken in late summer and early fall and best ridden north to south (due to wind). Along the way you'll enjoy coastal views and more than your fair share of stunning Oregon sunsets.

Sea Lion Caves

In addition to being America's largest sea cave, the Sea Lion Caves are home to — you guessed it — hundreds of sea lions who spend the winter in the caves before venturing out to the rookery areas for breeding and birthing.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is home to one of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the world. Here, you'll find a welcome dose of solitude as you explore 40 miles of dunes stacked along the Oregon Coast.

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34 Amazing Things to Do in Oregon in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Welcome to the beautiful state of Oregon. Located in the Pacific Northwest, sandwiched between California and Washington , Oregon just might be one of the most underrated destinations in the United States. There are so many things to do in Oregon from incredible hiking trails to picturesque beaches, hip urban centers, high mountains, and waterfalls. Oregon has it all! So let’s dive into some of the top places to visit in Oregon.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Oregon

People often skip right over Oregon from flying from Seattle , Washington to vacation in California, but it should not be missed! To help you plan your visit to Oregon and put it higher on your travel radar, let’s explore all the top attractions in the state. Where are you going next on a road trip? I bet Oregon will pop to the top of your bucket list after this!

1. Smith Rock State Park

For some of the best hiking in Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is a must. Travel Oregon made it a part of the 7 Wonders of Oregon and for good reason. This beautiful State Park is a mecca for rock climbers with more than 1000 bolted routes! Its cathedral rock spires make for picture-perfect scenery with it all reflecting in the winding river below.

Things to do in Smith Rock State Park

There are plenty of reasons to visit Smith Rock State Park besides rock climbing, it is an outdoor lovers’ paradise. Hikers can enjoy beautiful trails making it one of the most popular state parks in Oregon.

Our favorite is Misery Ridge Trail which is challenging but takes you out to stunning views of the park’s rock formations, and the River Trail, which follows the Crooked River and offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for golden eagles, mule deer and river otters when you are out for your hike. Read more: Smith Rock State Park – Misery Ridge Hike

Smith Rock State Park is also a great place for mountain biking with 30 miles of biking trails suitable for all levels. So, rent a bike and hit the trails or you can simply relax and do some car camping. There are campsites for RV camping, tent camping and there are even yurts and cabins for rent in the park.

Where to Stay Near Smith Rock

There are closer places to stay near Smith Rock including the Smith Rock Resort and Crooked River Ranch Cabins

Stay near Smith Rock at Sisters. We stayed at Five Pine Lodge  offers unique lodging in the nearby central Oregon town of Sisters. We stayed here the night before our cycling trip to Smith Rock via the Sisters to Smith Rock Scenic Byway.

Sisters is a great place to make a base with annual events like the Sisters Rodeo and the Sisters Folk Fest plus beautiful outdoor activities like SUP, Mountain Biking, Hiking, and more! Read more at TravelOregon

2. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Another one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon is the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. I think this is the place that attracts people to the state. It is the largest National Scenic Area in America measuring an astounding 80 miles long and 4000 feet deep along the Columbia River.

Being a gorge, there are naturally several waterfalls in the area including Wahclella Falls, Horsetail Falls, Latourell Falls. and Bridal Veil Falls. You can search for them among the 80 miles of trails in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Some of the more popular trails include Eagle Creek Trail, Dog Mountain Trail, and the Gorge Trail #400.

This is one of the most popular day trips from Portland. This Half Day Waterfalls Tour takes you on a 3.5-hour tour where you’ll visit attractions like Portland Women’s Forum, the Crown Point Vista House, Latourell Falls, Multnomah Falls, and Horse Tail Falls.

3. Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is the highest waterfall in Oregon and the second tallest year-round waterfall in the United States. It’s such a popular attraction in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area that it warrants its own mention. Multnomah Falls is a beautiful two-tiered waterfall, with the upper falls standing at 542 feet and the lower falls at 69 feet. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and are one of the top places in Oregon for taking photos.

Visitors can reach the falls by car, bus, or train. There is a parking lot at the site, but it can get crowded during peak season. There is also a shuttle service available during peak season. he Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop trail is a popular option that takes visitors past several waterfalls in the area.

There is also rock climbing in the area and the Columbia River Gorge is known for its strong winds, making it a popular destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts. The Hood River area is particularly popular for these sports.

4. Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway

We loved road-tripping through Oregon and The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway is a beautiful and historic drive that takes visitors past numerous scenic viewpoints and waterfalls. The drive is approximately 75 miles long and is home to several overlooks, including Crown Point and the Vista House. The historic Columbia River Highway is a great drive to really take in the views.

The byway was constructed between 1913 and 1922 and is considered a marvel of engineering and a masterpiece of highway design. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

It is great way to see the highlights of the Columbia River Gorge and its many waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horsetail Falls. Make sure to get out of the car to take in its amazing views, and stops at its various viewpoints, picnic areas, and trails.

One of the more unique ways to explore the Gorge is to get on the water. This Jet Boat Tour takes you along the Willamette River and the mighty Columbia River toward Multnomah Falls at 45 miles per hour. Views you’ll see along the way include, Cape Horn, Beacon Rock, Mount Hood, and more along the way.

Where to Stay at Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

There are plenty of places to stay in the Columbia River Gorge area on both the Washington State and Oregon sides. We’ll stick with Oregon since that is where you are visiting.

• Cascade River Watch is a highly-rated vacation rental that scores high marks for its location.
• Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn also has high marks for location. and has great amenities such as an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

5. Visit Bend

Bend is our favorite community in Oregon with so many things to do we gave it our own post! Don’t miss visiting one of its many microbreweries where you can enjoy a cold drink, or float along the Deschutes River while doing some tubing.

With shopping and dining galore, Bend is a great place to make a base when checking out all the things to do in Central Oregon. There are hiking and mountain biking trails and the beautiful Tumalo Falls. Read more at: 26 Fun and Adventurous Things to do in Bend, Oregon

6. Newberry National Volcanic Monument

Located in Central Oregon, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument is one of the most fascinating things to do in Oregon. Covering  54,000 acres of the Deschutes National Forest is filled with lava flows and cinder cones that formed thousands of years ago. You can actually go inside Lava Cones to see how they were formed by volcanic eruptions.

The Lava Lands Visitor Center is located in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument offering a variety of exhibits and educational displays that explore the geology, ecology, and history of the region.

One of the main attractions at the Lava Lands Visitor Center is the Lava Butte, a cinder cone volcano that rises over 500 feet above the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the butte and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains. The visitor center also offers ranger-led programs, guided hikes, and educational activities for visitors of all ages.

The lava tubes that we explored are Boyd Cave and Lava River Cave. Check out this Newberry half day Volcano trip to explore the lava flow with a professional guide. We toured this area with Wanderlust Tours, (TripAdvisor’s number one-rated tour company) in Bend. Read More: Exploring the Lava Tubes of Bend, Oregon

7. Soak in Some Natural Hot Springs

With all that volcanic activity, you can be. sure there are several hot springs around Bend a few to check out are Paulina Lake and East Lake Hot Springs, and Summer Lake Springs. Breitenbush is the largest thermal spring area in the Oregon Cascades

The Umpqua Hot Springs is worth the hike to its three descending pools located on the North Umpqua River in the Umpqua National Forest surrounded by towering pine trees.

8. High Desert Museum

We’ve been talking a lot about outdoor activities like hitting the biking trails to soaking in the natural beauty of the state, and the High Desert Museum of Bend keeps with that theme.

Staying true to the outdoor adventurous spirit of Bend, the High Desert Museum spans on 135 acres of forest lands and is devoted to the natural and cultural history of the high desert area. Filled with nature trails and outdoor exhibits the museum shares stories of the people, places, and wildlife of the area. There are permanent and changing exhibits offering workshops, animal shows, and lectures.

Where to Stay in Bend

• Oxford Hotel – If you are staying in Bend, we loved our accommodations at The Oxford Hotel located downtown Bend.
• Tetherow Hotel  is an award-winning hotel located on a golf course. This luxury property is 10 minutes from downtown, 7 minutes from the Old Mill District, and 20 minutes from Mt. Bachelor with a shuttle service.

9. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

And from Bend, you can enjoy a drive along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway starting from downtown Bend. We actually did a portion of this by bicycle and it was awesome. Read more at Things to do in Bend

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway begins in the city of Bend and winds its way through the Deschutes National Forest and the Cascade Mountains covering approximately 66 miles of highway. Along the way, visitors can stop at several scenic viewpoints, including Mount Bachelor, the Three Sisters Mountains, and the beautiful Sparks Lake.

The byway is also home to several recreational areas, including several lakes the serene Elk Lake, the clear and shallow Cultus Lake, and the scenic Devils Lake. It is also home to several trails for hiking, including the popular Green Lakes Trail and the challenging South Sister Trail.

The best time to visit Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is in summer and early fall when the weather is mild, and the roads are clear. In the winter months, some portions of the byway are closed due to snow, but it is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, including snowshoers, cross-country skiers, and snowmobilers.

10. Mount Hood National Forest

Speaking of winter, Mount Hood National Forest houses the highest peak in Oregon at 11,239 feet. We visited Oregon in late summer and actually drove through a bit of snow while driving the Mount Hood Scenic Byway, which is a 105-mile route that takes visitors past Mount Hood. There is great skiing here in the winter with hiking in the summer.

Mount Hood National Forest covers over one million acres of land and is a year round destination. In the summer there are more than 1,200 miles of hiking and biking trails and in the winter there is skiing and snowboarding at Timberline Lodge and Ski Area, Mount Hood Meadows, and Ski Bowl

You can check out this Mount Hood Day Trip where you will explore Hood River Valley, and marvel at the Columbia Gorge on a full-day tour from Portland

11. Cove Palisades State Park

Cove Palisades State Park is a public recreation area located in Central Oregon and is yet another place for outdoor lovers to enjoy the natural beauty of Oregon. It covers more than 6000 acres and is located on the eastern side of Lake Billy Chinook.

The park features several campgrounds, hiking trails, picnic areas, and boat ramps. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and water sports on the lake. The park is also home to the Tam-a-lau Trail, a popular hiking trail that leads to the top of a cliff overlooking the lake.

One of the most notable features of Cove Palisades State Park is the Crooked River Canyon, a deep gorge that was carved out by the Crooked River. The canyon is surrounded by towering cliffs and is home to several unique rock formations, including the Chimney Rock and the Island.

12. Crater Lake National Park

Did you know that Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America? Formed by a volcanic eruption 7,700 years ago this scenic lake is a whopping 1943 feet deep. There are no inlets to this lake allowing it to remain pristine and clear and unlike anything you have seen. You can take a guided boat tour of the lake, or hike one of its many trails.

Crater Lake is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Oregon but there are many things to do in Crater Lake National Park besides dipping your toes in the deepest lake in the USA.

There are 90 miles (150 km) of trails for hiking and in the winter you can go snowshoeing here too! Crater Lake National Park also features unique geological formations such as Wizard Island, which is a cinder cone that rises up from the lake, and Phantom Ship, a rock formation that resembles a ghostly ship floating on the water.

Make sure to take a road trip along The 33 mile (53 km) Rim Drive which offers some beautiful scenic views of Southern Oregon. See the National Parks Service for trail closures and more information. (right now certain trails are closed)

Crater Lake National Park is truly one of the best things to do in Oregon and here’s a fun fact, Crater Lake National Park is the only National Park in Oregon. It has National Forests, National Monuments, and state parks but Crater Lake is the only National Park!

13. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Oregon is filled with a diverse landscape. You can be in lush forests one minute and high desert plains another. At the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Central Oregon, you are transported to an ecosystem that reminds me of the Badlands. With layered fossils and colorful cliffs, they are one of the most popular attractions in Oregon.

The Painted Hills reminded us of Rainbow Mountain in Peru. The colorful layers stand out creating such a striking scene, they were named one of Oregon’s 7 Wonders. The Painted Hills Overlook Trail is the best for showcasing its beauty. Another way to take in the scene is to take a drive along the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument covers over 14,000 acres of land and is home to one of the most diverse and well-preserved fossil records in the world, with fossils dating back over 50 million years. The monument has three different units, and each unit has a visitor center with exhibits that showcase the fossil history of the area. These exhibits include fossils of plants, mammals, and insects.

14. Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is a spectacular 300-mile (480 km) long stretch of coastline. It is so spectacular that it too is a part of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Cannon Beach is the perfect place to make a base while exploring the Oregon Coast. Featured in movies such as The Goonies and Point Break, this beautiful beach is definitely one of the top things to do in Oregon on the coast.

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is located along the Oregon Coast and they are the most temperate coastal sand dunes in the world stretching for 40 miles. This is the place to try your hand at sandboarding.

15. Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is the most recognizable beach in Oregon with the Haystack Rock standing guard. Haystack Rock rises 235 feet from the edge of the shoreline creating a striking scene.

Cannon Beach was named one of the most beautiful places in the world by National Geographic and it was featured heavily in the movies The Goonies. There are plenty of places to stay and things to do off the beach including hiking, craft brewery tours, and plenty of birdlife including puffins!

This Oregon Coast Day Tour takes you to the white sand beaches of Oregon on a full-day tour. Stops include, including Cannon Beach to see Haystack Rock, Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, Ecola State Park, and Neahkahnie Point to view the dramatic Oregon Coastline

16. Thor’s Well

One of the best places to visit in Oregon for photographers is the magnificent Thor’s Well. This impressive sinkhole is located on Highway 101 / Oregon Coast Highway just outside of Yachats in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.

It requires a bit of hiking so wear proper footwear and keep your wits about you as the Oregon Coast can change without notice. Make sure to keep a safe distance away as people have been swept away here.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is a popular place to visit for families. Located on the scenic Oregon coast, with views of Yaquina Bay and the Pacific Ocean, visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery while learning about the marine life that inhabits it.

We have a love-hate relationship with aquariums but also understand that it is the conservation efforts and funds of aquariums that are helping to save the oceans. At the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the animals are housed in environments that mimic their natural habitats as closely as possible, and they are fed diets that meet their nutritional needs.

The aquarium participates in various conservation efforts, such as sea otter rehabilitation and the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network, which rescues and rehabilitates stranded marine animals.

17. Astoria

Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is another popular tourist destination in Oregon. One of the main reasons to visit Astoria is its connection to the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition.

In 1805 explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, reached the mouth of the Columbia River and established a camp near what is now Astoria. Today, visitors can explore the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park in Astoria, which includes several sites related to the expedition, including the reconstructed Fort Clatsop, where the expedition spent the winter of 1805-1806.

While in Astoria make sure you climb the Astor Column for some great views and be sure to check out its many museums including the Oregon Film Museum located in the Old Clatsop County Jail that was featured in The Goonies.

Another highlight here is driving across the Astoria-Megler Bridge, the longest continuous truss bridge in the United States. It spans 4.1 miles across the Columbia River connecting Oregon to Washington State.

18. Columbia River Maritime Museum

The Columbia River Maritime Museum is located in Astoria and deserves its own section. Located on the waterfront, it showcases the significant role this historic port city has played in Oregon’s history for more than two centuries.

The museum features a variety of exhibits that explore the history of the Columbia River. Visitors can see artifacts and displays related to the region’s maritime industry, including fishing boats, shipping vessels, navigation tools, and maritime art. The museum also has an extensive collection of photographs and archives that document the history of the area.

19. Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park is located on the northern coast of Oregon spanning 4,200 acres of land, including 9 miles of ocean shoreline. The park is named after the historic Fort Stevens, which was built in the late 1800s and served as a military defense installation during the Civil War, World War I, and World War II.

One of the must-stops on your road trip is the Peter Iredale Shipwreck, this shipwreck is located directly on the beach and is a very popular photo stop. This area includes the historic fort, military batteries, and the Oregon Military Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the fort and military defense in Oregon.

If you want to stretch your legs, the Columbia River Beach is a long stretch of beach and is popular for beachcombing and exploring the tide pools.

20. Oregon Coast Trail

If you love sandy beaches, a rugged coastline, and exploration, then the  Oregon Coast Trail i s one of the best. This trail takes you along 363 miles of coastline on the Pacific Coast. It is composed of several trails if you want to divide up your hike, one of the best is in Ecola State Park which takes you just a little inside the coast for amazing cliff views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Oregon Coast Trail starts at the Columbia River south jetty in Fort Stevens State Park. The trail ends at the California border in Southern Oregon at Crissey Field State Recreation Site. Read more: 12 Best Hikes in Oregon That Will Blow Your Mind

21. Pacific Crest Trail

If you are looking for more of a challenge, The Pacific Crest Trail runs from The Washington border to southern Oregon 455.2-miles. If you want a taste of what the hikers feel like going from Canada to Mexico, hop on it for a couple of days and start hiking.

You’ll pass through miles of lodgepole pines, views of Crater Lake, the Oregon Cascade Mountains, wildflowers, rivers, wildlife, and a whole lot more. You don’t have to do the entire  Pacific Crest Trail, you can join it at any time. Check the  PCT Oregon Website for day hikes  around Oregon.

Plus you can say you did the Pacific Crest National Trail without having to hike all 4200 km of it. Get more information on where to hike the Pacific Crest Trail at the PCT Association Oregon.

22. Oregon Caves National Monument

Located in the Siskiyou Mountains of Southern Oregon, Oregon Caves National Monument is a must for people looking for adventurous things to do in Oregon for the whole family. This unique destination is located in southern Oregon, near the city of Cave Junction.

Oregon Caves National Monument was established in 1909 and covers over 480 acres of protected land. The centerpiece of the monument is the Oregon Caves, which are a series of marble caverns that were formed by underground streams over millions of years.

Take a guided cave tour (note: Visitors must be 42 inches tall to join to tour) that is led by a park ranger to see the underground caves and the unique stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone. The tour is about 90 minutes and you’ll make your way through a half-mile path of narrow passages as low as 45 inches high. Visit the website for tour details.

23. Sea Lions Cave

Speaking of Caves, Sea Lions Cave is a fun place to visit in Oregon to view sea lions frolicking on the rocks. Located on the Oregon coast near the town of Florence, it is the largest sea cave in America and it is the only known mainland rookery (breeding ground) of Stellar sea lions in the United States. The cave was discovered in 1880 and was later developed into a tourist attraction in the 1930s.

The cave is more than 12 stories tall and is about the size of a football field. There is an elevator that will take you down to the caves where you will get to explore the largest sea cave in America. This unique adventure lets visitors watch the sea lions lounging on rocks, swimming in the water, and interacting with each other.

Besides the Stellar sea lions, the cave’s walls are home to a variety of marine animals, including harbor seals, and sea birds. The best time to visit Sea Lion Caves is during the winter and spring months when the sea lions are most active. During this time, visitors can see hundreds of sea lions in the cave, as well as on the rocks outside of the cave.

This is truly one of the most unique things to do in Oregon. How often do you get to view sea lions in their natural habitat within a huge grotto from the safety of a viewing platform?

24. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a beautiful stretch of the Oregon coast that weaves along the Pacific Ocean in southern Oregon. It treats road trippers with views of rugged cliffs, and secluded beaches. There are several scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and natural landmarks, such as Arch Rock, Natural Bridges, and Secret Beach.

This 12-mile (19 km) stretch of coastline is located on the southern coast of Oregon and runs from just south of the city of Brookings to the Pistol River. It’s a short stretch, but it can take a full day to truly appreciate its beauty and to enjoy its hiking trails, wildlife viewing (including whale spotting), and stopping at its historical landmarks.

25. Willamette Valley Vineyards

The Willamette Valley is home to Oregon wine country. It has more than 500 wineries within 150 miles of the Willamette Valley producing some of the best Pinot Noirs in America. ( the character Miles of Sideways would be very happy).

This beautiful region is perfect for cycling, hiking, and slowing down as you hop from vineyard to vineyard. Book this Willamette Valley Wine Tour on a day trip from Portland taking you through the rolling farmland and vineyards of the Willamette Valley.

There are other wine regions outside the Willamette Valley in Oregon too! In fact, there are 21 wine regions in Oregon producing 100 different varieties of grapes. The Faith, Hope, and Charity Vineyard is a 15-acre vineyard that produces fantastic red and white wines just 20 minutes from Bend Oregon. We loved the welcoming hospitality of their elegant western tasting room while enjoying the gorgeous views of Central Oregon.

26. Silver Falls State Park

If you are looking for waterfalls, Silver Falls State Park should be at the top of your list of things to do in Oregon. Located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, east of Salem, it covers over 9,000 acres of protected land.

One of the top things to do in Silver Falls State Park is to take a hike along the Trail of Ten Falls which weaves through a forest landscape passing a series of ten waterfalls. This moderate 7.2-mile loop is well-maintained and is a must-see.

Silver Falls State Park has everything you can expect from a State Park including picnic areas, campgrounds, and day-use facilities. In the summer months, visitors can swim and fish in the park’s streams and pools, and in the winter months, visitors can snowshoe or cross-country ski on the park’s trails.

27. Go Horseback Riding at Brasada Ranch

Our stay at Brasada Ranch  was one of our favorite things to do in Oregon and heading out on a trail ride was unforgettable. Located in Central Oregon just 30 minutes from Bend this is a Dude Ranch combined with urban elegance. There are trail rides where you can explore the high desert landscape, learn of the Indigenous culture, and take in the spectacular views while horseback riding.

Our ride took us out to Spirit Rock which looked like a picture right out of an old Western movie. The smell of sage filled the air and desert shrubs blew in the wind along the dusty trail. We then enjoyed a luxurious spa and a five-star dinner. Book your night at the Brasada Ranch .

28. Willamette National Forest

For a state that has so many outstanding state parks and natural beauty, it just keeps on coming. The vast Willamette National Forest spans 1.6 million acres.

One of the main attractions at Willamette National Forest is the Three Sisters Wilderness, a protected wilderness area that includes three volcanic peaks known as the Three Sisters. The area offers a wide range of hiking trails that lead through alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and across rushing streams. Visitors can also explore the many lakes and waterfalls that dot the landscape, including the popular Sahalie and Koosah Falls.

Another popular attraction in the Willamette National Forest is the McKenzie River Trail, a 26-mile-long trail that follows the McKenzie River through the forest. The trail offers stunning views of the river and passes by several notable attractions, including the Tamolitch Blue Pool and the Sahalie and Koosah Falls.

29. Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is located in southern Oregon in Ashland and is one of the largest and most prominent regional theaters in the United States. As you may have guessed, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival mainly produces the works of William Shakespeare.

The festival was founded in 1935 and has since become a cultural icon in the Pacific Northwest region. It attracts over 400,000 visitors each year and is one of the biggest tourist draws in the state of Oregon. The plays are performed in three different theaters, including the iconic outdoor Elizabethan Theatre, which seats over 1,000 people.

It reminds me a lot of the Stratford Festival here in Ontario, Canada . Seeing a Shakespearean play performed by professional actors is something you truly must experience at least once in your life.

30. Wallowa Whitman National Forest

Making our way out to the Wallowa Mountains, the Wallowa Whitman National Forest is yet another popular hiking destination in Oregon. Some popular hikes include the Chief Joseph Trail, the Eagle Cap Wilderness Loop, and the Wallowa Lake Trail.

And like many places in Oregon, this national forest has scenic drives, camping and year-round outdoor activities. Hop in your car and enjoy the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway and the Wallowa Mountain Loop Road drives and keep an eye out for elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and black bears. In the winter, The Anthony Lakes Ski Resort is a popular destination for downhill skiing and snowboarding.

31. Wallowa Lake Tramway

For a scenic ride take the tramway to the top of Mt. Howard for panoramic views of Wallowa Lake. Located in Northeastern Oregon, the 3700-foot tramway rises up through the Wallowa Mountains making it one of the most popular things to do in Oregon. Sit at the top and enjoy a cocktail as you take in the rugged scenic views.

The Wallowa Mountains are often compared to the Swiss Alps and if you have ever seen the Swiss Alps, you’ll know that is a very high compliment. See details here.

32. Spend Time in Portland

No “best things to do in Oregon” article would be complete without mentioning Portland . The largest city in Oregon is located where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers meet creating an amazing destination for outdoor lovers in search of a coold city vibe.

Portland totally surprised us with its laid-back hip vibes. Their slogan is fittingly “Keep Portland Weird”. There are so many things to do in Portland it warrants its own post, but we are going to highlight a few of our favorite outdoor things to do so you can keep reading.

Like Bend, it is known for its microbrews but there are so many places to visit in Portland. Notable things to do are: eat at one of its many food trucks and peruse the over one million books at Powell’s City of Books. This bookstore is one of the most iconic places to visit in Portland covering an entire city block. Walk across the St. John’s Bridge for views of the Willamette River, and check out the many museums and gardens.

33. Washington Park

Washington Park is a sprawling urban oasis that is easily accessed with the help of Portland’s light rail. Spanning 458 acres, this is an urban park that is filled with plenty of attractions. Washington Park houses the Oregon Zoo, an archery range, tennis courts, an arboretum and plenty of trails. But it is its two unique gardens that are a star attraction.

Rose Garden

Known as the  City of Roses , Portland is home to the stunning and public Rose Test Garden. Found within Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden boasts 500 varieties of roses sources from around the globe. The roses are sent here to test the viability and the plant’s characteristics.

Although open year-round, the garden is best seen between the months of May and September. During that time period, more than 10,000 rose bushes bloom in unison, backed by the incredible views of Mt Hood. After the garden, wander over to the iconic ice cream shop Salt & Straw for some distinctive ice cream flavors.

Portland Japanese Garden

Considered one of the most  authentic Japanese Gardens  outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is another garden located within Washington Park and is not to be missed. We have visited a lot of Japanese and Chinese Gardens in our day and they are a beautiful place to find your Zen.It has the usual elements of an Asian garden with water features, rocks, gardens, and buildings blending all of the elements beautifully together.

The most notable garden is Portland’s Japanese Garden. We’d never been big on gardens until we visited Japan. Seeing Japanese Gardens changed our tune. They are as beautiful as they are serene. The Japanese Garden in Portland is modeled after the gardens of Japan with rocks, pagodas, gardens, and ponds.

34. Portland Museums

If you are finding too many things to do in Oregon outside on this list, spend some time indoors enjoying Portland’s Museums. There are plenty to see, but here are a couple of standouts.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) was founded in 1944 and is one of the oldest science museums in the United States. If you are looking for things to do in Portland on a rainy day, this is the place.

The museum features a variety of hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and interactive displays that explore various scientific fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and technology. Some of the most popular exhibits at OMSI include the Earth Science Hall, where visitors can explore a replica of a Pacific Northwest cave, and the Turbine Hall, which features large-scale demonstrations of water and electricity.

Portland Art Museum

Art lovers will enjoy the Portland Art Museum. Located near the Portland State University campus, the art museum features work from across the globe and also focuses on Pacific Northwest Native American Art.

You could spend a full day wandering the halls and taking in several masterpieces, stunning photography, and iconic prints. However, even with just an hour or two, you can still make the most of the experience.

Where to stay in Portland

• The Benson a Coastal Hotel – This elegant hotel has been serving guests for more than a century. The four-diamond landmark hotel was a great stay in the heart of downtown Portland.
• The Jupiter – This was a very cool-themed hotel that brought us back in time. This old motor inn has been transformed into a boutique hotel tastefully decorated with mid-century design.

And these are the best things to do in Oregon. Have you visited the Pacific Northwest? What are your favourite Oregon Attractions?

Explore More Great Things to Do in Oregon

• 33 Best Things to Do in Portland, Oregon
• 26 Fun and Adventurous Things to Do in Bend, Oregon
• 12 Best Hikes in Oregon That Will Blow Your Mind
• Exploring the Lava Tubes of Bend, Oregon
• Smith Rock State Park – Misery Ridge Hike
• 27 Best National Parks in the USA To Visit
• 15 Great Road Trips in America
• Best National Parks – USA Edition
• Tips for Hiking the John Muir Trail

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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4 thoughts on “34 Amazing Things to Do in Oregon in 2024”

I have been to pretty much all of these and totally agree! They are wonderful places.

Whoever wrote this article should note that it is not just the Wallowa Lake Tramway that should be seen, it is the whole area. The town of Joseph at the entrance to the lake has a lot of local artisans, breweries and shopping as well. Also while in the area why not drive up to Hell’s Canyon to see the few. Also might want to not that Portland is getting pretty much destroyed after all the riots and homelessness.

Fantastic photography! I’ve lived in both western and eastern Oregon since 1983 and traveled to most of the places listed in your article. I was a professional photographer during my twenties, so I am always looking for inspiring places and hoping to be there during awesome lighting conditions. However, I have yet to capture photos of Multnomah Falls, Thor’s Well, and Haystack Rock as good as your images. Great use of neutral density filters.

Google maps messed with you, listing #11 as “Painted Rock” and locates it near Rockaway on the Oregon coast.

I was born in Alsea Oregon in the last century (1946). I ALWAYS knew that I lived in a BEAUTIFUL state. Waking up to the sound of irrigation sprinklers in our fields, seeing a herd of Elk grazing with our dairy cows & the smell of fresh cut hay really made me appreciate my life. OREGON ROCKS!!

Best Places to Visit in Oregon: 15 Beautiful Destinations

When you think of the state of Oregon , you may conjure up images of the city of Portland , known for hipsters and craft beer. Or maybe you think of lumberjacks sporting denim coveralls while chopping down old-growth timber. Well, we have all of that… and so much more.

Oregon has gorgeous waterfalls, arid deserts, snowcapped mountains, cascading rivers, steaming hot springs , a beautiful coastline, and the friendliest of locals. I could go on and on about this amazing state. And I will, below. So read on to learn all about the best places to visit in the great state of Oregon!

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Top 15 Places to Go in Oregon

Located about three hours southeast of Portland, Bend is the perfect adventurous town to spend a weekend exploring. The people who live here tend to love the great outdoors and spend their weekends kayaking in the river that runs through the center of the city, hiking on one of the countless trails nearby, or snowboarding on Mt Bachelor which is just outside of town.

Not only does Bend offer a plethora of outdoor activities, but it also has a bunch of craft breweries, cute boutiques, delicious restaurants, fancy mountain lodges, hot pools for lounging, the list goes on and on. It’s definitely a town that you must visit during your trip to Oregon!

And, of course, you must check out Smith Rock State Park during your visit. It’s another of the Seven Wonders of Oregon!

2. Crater Lake

Crater Lake is located in Central Oregon and is a part of the US National Parks system. Several thousand years ago Mount Mazama collapsed after a massive eruption and formed this volcanic caldera. The lake is estimated to be just over 2,000 feet deep – the deepest in the entire US and the 3rd deepest in the world. Although some people believe it has no bottom.

The lake has an intense blue color and is unbelievably clear. Floating at the surface is the “Old Man of the Lake”, a tree log that has been bobbing vertically for 100 years.

There are many hiking trails around Crater Lake. And weather permitting, you can even hike down to the rim of the lake and have a swim in the frigid water. There are several campsites in the park (beware, they close in the winter) and a gorgeous lodge. It’s a must-visit during your trip to Oregon!

3. Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River cuts through the Cascade Mountains and now provides a natural barrier between Oregon and Washington. Here you’ll find spectacular scenic views and plenty of spots to stop along the way for short or long hikes or just to view the spectacular waterfalls.

The Historic Columbia River Highway follows the river and you’ll enjoy the cliffs rising above you, the lush vegetation lining the road, and the many waterfalls cascading from above. Multnomah Falls is crowded but is a must-visit during your drive. Bridal Veil and Latourell Falls are also worth a stop.

And if you want to spend a few hours hiking, Dog Mountain Trail , Wahkeena Falls Loop Trail , and Angel’s Rest are all well-maintained and popular trails. And the Vista House provides the most spectacular view of the gorge, it’s a must-stop!

4. Oneonta Gorge

Oneonta Gorge is located in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge and is a popular hiking area for locals and tourists alike. But unlike most hiking trails, there isn’t actually a path. You’ll park, walk down to the water, and start hiking through the creek. Almost immediately, you’ll come to a large log jam that you’ll need to scramble over so be careful. There tends to be a bit of a pileup of people here, especially on weekends.

You’ll walk upstream through the water for about a mile until you get to Lower Oneonta Falls. Depending on the season, at times you’ll be wading through chest-deep water which may be difficult for small children unless they can swim. Be sure you are dressed to get wet and wear shoes that have good traction.

The waterfall at the end is a nice treat but the challenge of getting there is what you’ll enjoy the most. It’s one of our favorite places to visit in Oregon when we’re craving an adventure!

5. Hood River

Hood River is a quaint little town about an hour east of Portland in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It draws hundreds of kiteboarders from around the country due to its ideal windy conditions. It also draws Portlanders looking for a relaxing weekend retreat. The locals know it’s one of the best places to visit in Oregon, especially since it’s just a short drive from the city.

Even if you don’t kiteboard or windsurf, Hood River is an ideal place to spend a long weekend. With delicious brunch spots, lively breweries with industrial-style tasting rooms, cute boutiques, and art galleries lining the pedestrian-friendly downtown, you’ll have plenty to fill up your days. It’s a perfect stop to add to your Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary .

6. The Painted Hills

A visit to the Painted Hills is like a trip back in time. The hills contain colored stratifications in the soil and the colors yellow, black, and red appear to have been painted on in long, horizontal brush strokes. The colors are most vibrant in the late afternoon. You’ll want to spend a few hours here, admiring how the colors look different depending on the sun and wandering along the trails.

There are several well-maintained trails in the area if you’d like to get out and stretch your legs. You can also see the hills from your car if you’d prefer. The Journey Through Time Scenic Byway takes you through a ghost town and the town of Fossil which has some fun activities for kids.

The Painted Hills are one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon (a few others are listed here as well) so of course, you must visit. They are also a part of the John Day Fossil Beds so there are plenty of other amazing landscapes to explore nearby. We especially loved the Blue Basin where you can hike either the Islands in Time Trail or the Blue Basin Overlook Trail . Walking through the bright blue canyon is like being on another planet!

7. The Wallowa Mountains

Located in northeastern Oregon, near Hells Canyon, are the spectacular Wallowa Mountains . They are popular for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike and explore the beauty of Oregon.

Even if hiking isn’t your activity of choice, you can still enjoy the Wallowa Mountains. The Wallowa Lake Tramway will transport you 3,700 vertical feet to the top of Mount Howard, which is over 8,000 feet tall. Views of the entire area from here are absolutely stunning. There are two miles of relatively easy hiking trails at the top for you to explore.

Be sure to stop in the quaint town of Joseph nearby. They have an up-and-coming art, food, and beer scene and a cute downtown area. It’s the perfect place to use as your base before heading into the wilderness for a day of trekking.

8. Alvord Desert

Most people don’t know that there is a massive dry lakebed in Southeastern Oregon, in the shadows of the Steens Mountains. The playa here is similar to Black Rock City, where Burning Man is held every year, but smaller and far less crowded. This 12×7-mile desert wasteland is the perfect place to go if you want to camp in the middle of a giant playa or set land speed records.

There are no real rules here other than “leave no trace”. You can just drive onto the lakebed, camp anywhere, and drive as fast as you want. And right on the outskirts of the playa is a privately owned hot springs, general store, toilet (you’ll probably need this at least once during your stay), and a campground with a few more amenities.

It’s awesome to have a soak in one of the pools, temperatures are “hot” and “scalding”, and then drive onto the playa and find your own little private spot to pitch your tent. And when you wake up in the morning you can cruise around the playa, testing the limits of your car. It’s our favorite place in Oregon to camp for a few nights!

TIP: Be sure to fill up on gas in the nearest town of Fields (population 86) since the Alvord is literally out in the middle of nowhere.

9. Strawberry Lake

East of John Day, Oregon, in the Malheur National Forest, you’ll find 68,700 acres of beauty called the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. The aptly named Strawberry Mountain Range provides a picturesque backdrop to the lush vegetation you’ll find here.

And one of Oregon’s best lakes , Strawberry Lake, is in this area as well. The trail is a 6.2 heavily trafficked out and back that is moderate in difficulty. You’ll get to see both Strawberry Lake and Little Strawberry Lake. The reflection off of this amazing high-elevation, shallow lake is quite spectacular.

If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that the lake is stocked with trout, and fishing here is permitted. And in the winter you can reach the frozen lake with cross-country skis or snowshoes.

The idyllic Strawberry Camp sits along Strawberry Creek and this is where the hike to the lake begins. This area is not a popular tourist destination so you’ll find a good amount of peace and quiet here. It’s the perfect place to spend a weekend camping and hiking in the beautiful Oregon wilderness! Plus, how cute is it that everything here is named after a piece of fruit?

10. Hart Mountain

The Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge is a rugged, backcountry area of land in Southern Oregon that protects over 300 species of wildlife. There are some primary maintained roads, as well as some bumpy, off-roading style roads. You’ll want 4-wheel drive and high clearance here.

This is also an area that is open to hunting during designated seasons to keep the population controlled. Fishing is another popular recreational activity in the area. Most people like to do some wildlife observation and photography as the opportunities here are endless!

The real draw to this area, at least for us, was the natural hot springs that are located right near the campground. You can soak in this natural pool while watching the sun sink below the majestic mountains that tower above you. And if you’re lucky, you may spot some wildlife grazing nearby.

11. Tamolitch Blue Pools

To reach this little piece of bright blue paradise, you’ll need to hike the McKenzie River Trail. It’s kind of on the way to Bend if you’re taking Highway 22 through Salem. The trail is a 3.7-mile well-maintained, heavily trafficked out and back trail that is fairly flat the whole way.

Once you reach the end of the hike, you’ll understand what all of the hype is about. Tamolitch Falls (aka “Blue Pools”) is a body of water so blue, and so crystal clear that you won’t even believe that it is real. This was once a waterfall but the river changed course so now this area contains a dry waterfall ledge and a pool beneath that is so clear and so still that it resembles glass.

It’s an idyllic place to swim on a hot summer day. And the waterfall ledge is perfect for jumping (check the depth before you leap of course). You’ll love spending an afternoon swimming in this pool of bright blue water!

12. Astoria

Located in northwestern Oregon, right across the Columbia River from Washington state is the darling little port city of Astoria. You may know it as the setting of the classic movie Goonies. Astoria is the oldest city in the state of Oregon and is a good mix of history with some modern touches that make it an ideal tourist destination.

The downtown area is full of restaurants and cafes with dishes that are sure to please any foodie. And the Fort George Brewery, located in an old auto dealership, is a great place to grab a craft brew and sit outside in the sun. There are also a few food trucks here if you need a snack.

Camping is available at the nearby Fort Stevens State Park where the famous Peter Iredale shipwreck remains still sitting on the beach. Fort Stevens was once a military defense area that was in service for 84 years. And today it is a large park with campgrounds, hiking and biking trails, a military fort, and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.

Spend a few days enjoying the state park, the coast, and the cute little town of Astoria!

13. Cannon Beach

Haystack Rock is a giant rock that sits right on the coast of Cannon Beach. It is one of the most recognizable and popular landmarks in the state of Oregon. Rising 235 feet from the sand, this large rock is home to some interesting sea life and bird species. You can walk right up to it at low tide.

Cannon Beach is located in northwestern Oregon, not far from Astoria. The beaches in Oregon are often referred to as “the coast” as opposed to “the beach” because both the air and the water are generally pretty chilly. So you may not want to come here for the sunbathing opportunities, but you will want to visit Cannon Beach for the beautiful views of the sea, the soft sand, and the cute little town with shops and cafes galore!

If you have some extra time, the entire stretch of Highway 101 is quite spectacular and worth the drive.

14. Mt. Hood

Mt. Hood is another of the Seven Wonders of Oregon, and for good reason. At over 11,000 feet, you can spot this behemoth all the way from Portland’s city center! It is the tallest mountain in Oregon and the 4th tallest in the Cascade Mountain Range.

Located just about an hour outside of Portland, Mt. Hood is a popular destination for weekend warriors looking to do some skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or tubing during the cold winter months. There is a cozy mountain lodge here, perfect to warm yourself with a hot toddy after a long day in the snow.

In the summer months, there are popular trekking opportunities on Mt. Hood. The trek to the summit is difficult and not for the faint of heart. There is also a ring trail called the Timberline Trail that allows you to hike around the base of the mountain. It takes a few days so you’ll need to carry all of your camping gear and food. But the landscape is absolutely breathtaking!

15. Portland

And last but not least… no trip to Oregon is complete without a few days in Portland! This weird wonderland is full of hipsters drinking overpriced brews (coffee and beer) while talking about how great Portland used to be. You’ll find the craziest donut concoctions, lively outdoor markets, some of the best cuisines in all of the US, a gorgeous city skyline, and more.

Out of all of the great places to visit in Oregon, we think Portland might just be the best. We love Portland so much that we’ve written several complete posts about it – start here and work your way through all of them!

That’s it – 15 of the most beautiful places in Oregon. Do you have a favorite Oregon destination? Let us know in the comments.

Planning a trip to Oregon? Check out our favorite travel guides for more inspiration!

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Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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The best places to visit in Oregon: 5 exciting itineraries

I f you’re planning a visit to Oregon, it can be difficult to choose the right Oregon itinerary. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon is a beautiful, yet incredibly diverse state. Within one day, you can travel from sea to mountains, from rain forest to high desert.

So with such an abundance of natural beauty to experience, you’ll want to choose an itinerary that will make the most of your time. Here are five Oregon itineraries that will help you do just that.

These five itineraries will explore Oregon’s seven wonders, the Oregon Coast, the Oregon Outback, Portland Oregon, and part of the Oregon Trail. These are the best places to visit in Oregon.

Oregon Wonders Itinerary

The Oregon Wonders itinerary covers Oregon’s wide range of climates, allowing you to experience a little of everything Oregon has to offer. This loop starts and ends in Portland.

First, see Oregon’s temperate rain forest as you drive east from Portland, through the Columbia River Gorge towards Multnomah Falls , the tallest waterfall in Oregon.

Then continue east to the beautiful Mt. Hood . Go for a hike at Mt. Hood, like to Ramona Falls. Or visit Timberline Lodge, where The Shining was filmed.

Next, travel further East to experience Oregon’s high desert. In the Wallowa Mountains , take a gondola ride from Wallowa Lake Village to the top of Mt. Howard, where you can see to the next state over.

Admire the warm colors of the Painted Hills , and go hiking or rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park .

Then, visit Oregon’s only national park, Crater Lake National Park . And finally, drive along the Oregon Coast for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean before returning to Portland.

The best time of year to plan this road trip is typically in July, August, or September, when the roads are open in Crater Lake.

However, July and August tend to be particularly hot months in Smith Rock. So it’s best to plan for an early morning hike here before the heat of the day.

Plan to spend at least ten days for this road trip. This will allow time to experience each of the Seven Wonders of Oregon , plus some travel time.

Oregon Coast Itinerary

This itinerary takes you along Oregon’s ruggedly beautiful coastline. Highway 101 , also known as the Pacific Coast Highway , runs for 363 miles down Oregon’s western most border.

This Oregon Coast road trip starts in Astoria and ends in Brookings, Oregon’s northern and southern most cities.

Along the way you’ll see 3 haystack rocks, in Cannon Beach (the rock filmed in The Goonies), Pacific City , and Bandon. You’ll visit two aquariums, in Seaside and Newport, where Keiko once lived. And visit 7 of Oregon’s 11 lighthouses.

Also, explore a shipwreck near Astoria, a ghost forest in Neskowin, and a sea lion cave near Florence. Plus, go whale watching from the world’s smallest bay in Depot Bay. Then, learn about our impact on the oceans at the Washed Ashore Art Gallery in Bandon.

And all along the way, enjoy delicious food. Many restaurants on the coast serve fresh seafood and warm clam chowder with stunning views of the ocean.

But be sure to eat at the Pronto Pup in Rockaway Beach , where the corn dog was invented! Then enjoy ice cream and squeaky cheese (cheese curds) at the Tillamook cheese factory.

You could easily travel the Oregon coast in about 8 hours if you drove straight through, but you’d miss out on so much beauty and adventure along the way. Instead, plan to spend about 1 to 2 weeks to complete this itinerary, depending on how many coastal towns you want to stop in.

Oregon Outback Itinerary

The Oregon Outback itinerary will take you to a one-horse town in the high desert of Central Oregon. This is the best itinerary to choose if you love to hike, don’t mind a little dust in your boots, and want to avoid the crowds. This is the road less traveled.

Book your stay at one of two motels in Christmas Valley. About 4 hours and 30 minutes southeast of Portland, this small town is centrally located to several amazing and unique hikes in the area.

There are three major hikes worth checking out here. First, hike through a narrow, rocky canyon at Crack in the Ground. Then, be sure to bring a headlamp to explore the depths of Derrick Cave, an old lava tunnel.

And lastly, hike the perimeter of Fort Rock, an ancient volcano, as you watch for jack rabbits sprinting across the landscape. Then visit the outdoor museum, Fort Rock Homestead Village, for a taste of what life was once like in this Wild West.

Enjoy a hearty dinner one night at the Cowboy Dinner Tree. Just be sure to reserve your seat well in advance. They may have a rather remote location, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t booked solid!

Plan to spend about five days for this road trip. That gives two full days for travel and leaves three full days for hiking and exploring Oregon’s Outback.

At the end of this vacation, you’ll have experienced Oregon, untamed and untainted in its raw and natural beauty.

Portland, Oregon Itinerary

This itinerary is all about how to spend three perfect days in Portland, Oregon. And it’s the perfect itinerary for those who prefer the city or are only able to make a short visit to Oregon.

There’s a lot more to Portland than the rain. For starters, it has a great food and restaurant scene, with a strong affinity for coffee shops and microbreweries.

Portland is also known for its love of dogs and bikes, and for its many parks, gardens and bridges. But with so much to see and do, this guide will help you see the best highlights of the city.

Day One : Start the day with brunch at one of Portland’s many delicious brunching restaurants. A few excellent options include Broder Söder, Jam Cafe, or The Tin Shed ( a dog-friendly dining option! ).

Then, visit Powell’s books, the largest used book store in the world. Later, enjoy a cup of tea at the Lan Su Chinese Gardens . End the day with amazing views of Portland from the Portland Aerial Tram or Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

Day Two : On your second day, set out to explore the neighborhoods, admire the street art , and eat lunch at a food truck pod. Or get outdoors and go for an afternoon hike in Forest Park to discover the witch’s hut.

Day Three : On your final day in Portland, visit the International Rose Test Gardens and the Japanese Gardens at Washington Park. Then play around at Portland’s new and interactive art museum, Hopscotch. End your trip with drinks from one of Portland’s roof top bars.

If you have extra time, you can plan a day trip from Portland . Visit the Oregon Coast, head east to Mt. Hood, or travel south to Silver Falls State Park.

Oregon Trail Itinerary

Follow the path pioneers once took through Oregon on this Oregon Trail itinerary. Walk in the deep ruts of old covered wagons and imagine what it must have been like to traverse this country before the convenience of our smooth, paved freeways.

The Oregon Trail originated in Kansas and Missouri and spanned a total of seven states. However, this road trip focuses on the stretch of trail in Oregon.

Since I-84 roughly parallels the Oregon Trail through Oregon, there are two ways to approach this road trip. Option one is to drive east on I-84 from Portland to Baker City and back again. Or, option two is to fly into Boise, Idaho, rent a car, and drive west on I-84 to Portland.

The main highlight of this Oregon itinerary is the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City, Oregon. At the interpretive center, discover an outdoor recreation of a covered wagon camp, watch live historical re-enactments, and hike alongside wagon ruts. This site covers 500 acres and includes over four miles of hiking.

Note: The Interpretive Center is currently closed for remodeling and has moved to a temporary location. For latest updates, visit their site here .

From Baker City, follow the trail west through the Grande Ronde Valley and over the Blue Mountains. Marvel at the Columbia River as you drive through the Gorge to The Dalles, where many pioneers rafted their wagons down the river.

TIP : Other locations to hike along actual Oregon Trail ruts are at Birch Creek near Huntington and Echo Meadows near Hermiston, Oregon.

While many pioneers settled in Oregon, others continued on to Washington. However this particular road trip ends in Portland, Oregon. Plan to spend about three to four days for this road trip.

Final Thoughts on Oregon Itineraries

From ocean to high desert, from the bustling city to dusty country roads, these five Oregon itineraries are sure to have a little something for everyone.

And whichever of these itineraries you choose, you’re sure to be stunned by Oregon’s beauty and diversity.

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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.

2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River

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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. Outings are offered at various days and times; check with a specific operator to learn more. Most tours last around 2 1/2 hours, though City Brew Tours offers experiences that range from three to five hours. Keep in mind that people younger than 21 are not allowed on the tours. For more information, visit the individual tour operators' websites.

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.

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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12 Awesome Things To Do in Sisters, Oregon

Planning a trip to Oregon? You can’t miss all the things to do in Sisters, a cute and charismatic central Oregon town!

Sisters is western in more than one way—buildings look as if they’re stuck in the late 19th century, and frontier history is abundant everywhere you look. 

However, the Sisters area is also renowned for its connection to nature, and it’s the perfect base to explore some of Oregon’s best hiking trails .

Read on, and we’ll detail all the best things to do in Oregon’s Sisters! 

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Table of Contents

1. Explore the Town of Sisters

2. black butte hike, 3. skylight cave, 4. mckenzie river trail, 5. tamolitch blue pool, 6. clear lake (hike or chill), 7. dee wright observatory, 8. proxy falls, 9. the cove palisades state park, 10. cascade lakes scenic byway, 11. smith rock state park, 12. explore bend, where to stay in sisters, oregon, your guide to silver falls state park—the trail of 10 falls & more, 16 great options for camping near eugene oregon, 11 worth it hikes in eugene, oregon, 14 outdoorsy things to do in eugene, oregon, things to do in sisters, oregon.

The first of Sisters’ best activities is to explore the town itself. A perfect base to enjoy some of the nature and history of the region. Sisters is home to gorgeous buildings that look like they are stuck in 1880s Wild West history.

But there’s a more modern side to Sisters as well—inside, many of these buildings accommodate boutique stores, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. 

Or, if you want to soak in the Western atmosphere of the town, pass through the drive-in that dates from 1952, where you can purchase homemade ice cream. You can also look out for the UPS shipping store, which is nostalgically called “The Pony Express!”

Distance: 3.9 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty: Moderate Elevation Gain: 1,538 ft

This moderately difficult trail is perfect if you want to get your blood pumping!

The Black Butte Hike is an out-and-back trail that’s just under 4 miles in length and takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to finish. 

This is a popular skiing area in the winter, and you might find parts of the trail inaccessible when there’s particularly heavy snow. However, it’s perfect in the summertime, and during warmer shoulder seasons, the snow should be melted most of the way. 

Whatever the season, visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the town of Sisters! 

READ MORE: Hiking the Black Butte Trail Just Outside of Sisters, Oregon

Skylight Cave is a unique adventurous thing to do near Sisters! As the name suggests, this cave has a ‘skylight’ that consists of a hole in the roof, letting light into the cavernous surroundings. 

The cave is a lava tube formed thanks to a flow of lava through a fissure vent and then running out, leaving the cave. Some of the roof then collapsed, which resulted in the Skylight Cave that we all know and love today!

Skylight Cave is north of Sisters. Once you’ve reached the parking lot, you’ll need to look hard to find the cave itself – there’s a ladder leading down it, and once you reach the bottom, you can walk around the cave independently.

READ MORE: How to Get to Skylight Cave in Oregon

Distance: 24.1 miles Type of Trail : Point to Point Difficulty: Hard Elevation Gain: 797 ft

Sisters is known as the gateway to the Cascades, and nowhere is this more apparent than on the McKenzie River Trail. Sitting at 24 miles long, the McKenzie River Trail is a challenging trail that’ll take you a while to complete—but you can do a section of it if you want a fun day out from Sisters!

The upper section of the McKenzie River Trail encompasses features like the Blue Pool , Koosah Falls, and Sahalie Falls . Part of the trail runs past the river and eventually traverses uphill, seeing the landscapes of the volcano as you go. 

READ MORE: Your Guide To Hiking The McKenzie River Trail

Distance: 3.6 miles Type of Trail : Moderate Difficulty: Out & Back Elevation Gain: 285 ft

The Tamolitch Blue Pool Hike is one of the best sub-hikes you can do from the McKenzie River Trail. This is a 3.6-mile hike that takes you to one of the most beautiful spots in the area; the most impossibly bright blue pool. 

This is a reasonably easy trail, with just 300 feet of elevation gain. You’ll also enjoy some stunning views of the river as you go! 

READ MORE: Hiking to Tamolitch Blue Pool in Central Oregon

Distance: 4.9 miles Type of Trail : Loop Difficulty: Easy Elevation Gain: 239 ft

The Clear Lake Trail is just under 5 miles in length and is one of the best things to do in Sisters! It’s a relatively easy hike, taking just under two hours to complete. Known as “the lake born of fire,” it was formed three millenniums ago by lava from Sand Mountain. 

As you hike the trail, look out for submerged trees. These trees date back to before the lake. You can enjoy the views from the trail, but only the brave take a dip—the waters are freezing, even in the summer!

This is also a great spot for wildlife viewing. Bald eagles and osprey are native to the skies here, and you can also look for brook and rainbow trout here. Clear Lake is also a popular spot for boating and fishing.

If you don’t want to hike, you don’t need to enjoy the lake. Bring your SUP board, a tent to camp in, or just a lounge chair and a cold drink.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Exploring Clear Lake, Oregon

Located on the top of McKenzie Pass, the Dee Wright Observatory is a structure built to look out over some of the state’s best vistas. 

Situated just off the roadside, the Dee Wright Observatory is the perfect place to stop if you’re driving around the area. 

From this vantage point, you can enjoy spectacular vistas of the surrounding mountains and expansive volcanic rock fields. 

Distance: 1.6 miles Type of Trail : Loop Difficulty: Moderate Elevation Gain: 147 ft

This 1.6-mile hike should take less than an hour to complete and is one of the most worth it hikes in the area! Exploring a lava field that you’ll need to clamber over and taking in some of the best views of the surrounding area.

After a short hike, you’ll happen upon the stunning Proxy Falls . You can get a great view from the viewpoint or take the slippy walk a bit closer up to the falls.

READ MORE: Proxy Falls Hike—Central Oregon’s Most Epic Waterfall!

Nestled in the Deschutes and Crooked River Canyons, the Cove Palisades State Park is ideal for camping, boating, and hiking. It’s particularly popular in the summertime, but there are also year-round attractions that you can enjoy here. 

In the summertime, choose from one of the campgrounds: Deschutes River Campground is near two boating areas, and the Crooked River Campground is located just across. If you don’t fancy tents, there are also cabins that you can stay in too! 

You can rent out boats and kayaks if you’re visiting for the day. Alternatively, try flatwater paddling, which is a fantastic way to take in the beautiful surroundings. There are also safe swimming areas for those who want to brave the cool water.

For on-land activities, climb up the Tam-A-Lau Trail and take in the incredible views of the Cascade Range and two River Canyons. Or, enjoy the Crooked River Rim Trail, a short two-mile trail from the cooked river campground.

There’s also a Wetland Nature Loop, a 0.25-mile trail located in the Crooked River Campground. 

READ MORE: Your Guide to Cove Palisades State Park

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a 65-mile-long road and a beautiful part of the state. Traversing through Central Oregon, this byway takes in vistas like Mount Bachelor and the rest of the Cascade Mountains—and it has been called one of the USA’s most important and beautiful byways. 

As well as mountain views, it traverses through the Deschutes Canyon and many gorgeous lakes. 

In the area, there are also opportunities to go hiking, rock climbing, fishing, and skiing in the winter. It’s easy to park up and explore while driving along the byway! 

READ MORE: Exploring The Cascade Lakes in Oregon—Hiking, Camping, & Water Sports

Smith Rock State Park whisks you away from reality and brings you to an alien landscape of reddish rocks jutting out of the ground as the Crooked River glides through the base.

If you haven’t got as much time, take in Misery Ridge Trail , which is short but challenging, taking in incredible landscapes as you go. Rock climbing is also huge at this park.

READ MORE: A Guide to Smith Rock State Park’s Hikes, Misery Ridge Trail & More

Around 22 miles from Sisters, Bend is one of the most beautiful towns in Oregon. Most famous for its beautiful scenery in and around the center, Bend has excellent hikes , waterfalls , and, in town, some incredible breweries! 

Catch the sunset from Pilot Butte, explore Tumalo Falls , or if you want some more unique activities, you can try out bungee jumping, cycling, or whitewater rafting all from Bend!

Should you want something more relaxing in Bend, soak your muscles in the McMenamins Bathhouse and try out the Bend Ale Trail, a network of breweries. You can try out a different one each night and pick up a passport to help you visit them all!

READ MORE: An Adventurer’s Guide to Things to Do in Bend, Oregon

• FivePine Lodge & Spa – At this upscale hotel, you’ll find a range of amenities from free Pilates to the Shibui Spa. There are two onsite restaurants and the rooms boast fireplaces and deep soaking tubs!
• Best Western Ponderosa Lodge – This hotel is adjacent to a golf course, but if that’s not your thing, there’s luckily a relaxing onsite spa too. Guests can take advantage of a seasonal outdoor pool and enjoy their comfortable rooms. This is a very well-located and reviewed hotel in Sisters.
• Left Coast Lodge – This is your spot if you have your pet in tow! There are views of the Cascades, you’re right in the center of Sisters, and there’s even a hot tub for a late-night soak.

MORE ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN SISTERS:

The gorgeous town of Sisters is a beautiful place to base yourself when exploring Central Oregon. Spend some time enjoying the town, but don’t forget to take in its epic nature as you go!

We hope this helped you plan your trip to Sisters, Oregon!

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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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These 10 spots are ranked as the ‘Prettiest Towns to Visit in Oregon’

• Updated: Aug. 28, 2024, 8:50 a.m.
• | Published: Aug. 28, 2024, 7:23 a.m.

The ever-popular Cannon Beach, with its signature feature, Haystack Rock, has made another list of must-see places in Oregon. The Oregonian

• Kristi Turnquist | The Oregonian/OregonLive

Every day, it seems, some website or media outlet is coming up with lists of the most charming community , most beautiful beach, and noting other categories where Oregon stands ou t. While we don’t always know just how these sites came up with these assorted honor rolls, it’s still interesting to see what Oregon spots rise to the top.

In another example of this trend, an outfit called WorldAtlas has put together what it’s calling a list of the “10 Prettiest Towns to Visit in Oregon.” While we all may have our favorites, this particular rundown includes both locales that turn up frequently in these lists (Cannon Beach, come on down!), along with some places that don’t often get a national spotlight.

In case you’re wondering (we sure were) just what WorldAtlas is, the website explains that this “original online geography resource” was launched in 1994 “as the passion project of cartographer John Moen and his wife Chris Woolwine-Moen. Today, WorldAtlas is one of the largest publishing resources in geography and other topics it covers, including sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics, and travel. In 2019 alone, WorldAtlas has served over 165 million readers from around the world.”

OK, then. So, what are the 10 Oregon towns that WorldAtlas deems the prettiest? As the introduction says, the prettiest towns on the list have “streets lined with historic architecture,” boast “unique cuisine at local restaurants,” and possess other attributes that “culminate in a unique cultural immersion, away from the congested cities but surrounded by the state’s unparalleled natural beauty.”

Here’s the list:

CANNON BEACH: The north coast community is a familiar presence on best-of lists , so it makes sense that it turns up in this one, too. The WorldAtlas site says, in part, “Haystack Rock presents one of the most photogenic sites from the Cannon Beach shores. This 235-foot tall rock formation is a popular subject for nature photographers in town. Away from the coastline, Cannon Beach treats vacationers to intimate live performances at the 1920s Coaster Theatre Playhouse. The venue was once a roller rink, but now it exudes warmth with its vintage decor and tranquil vibe. For a more social experience, visitors can shop for artisan foods, fresh produce, seafood, and crafts at the Cannon Beach Farmers’ Market. Along with organic items, the market offers a chance to mingle with townsfolk and get a taste of the culture.”

The Jennings Hotel is a boutique hotel in the remote town of Joseph, Oregon. With modern design and artist residencies, it attracts a younger, hipper clientele to the northeast Oregon vacation destination. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

JOSEPH: The Wallowa County community is undeniably scenic , so points to WorldAtlas for including it. As the website says, “Joseph’s sublime natural beauty earned it the nickname ‘Little Switzerland of America.’” In addition to its picturesque setting, WorldAtlas praises Joseph’s cultural scene. “Several art centers, including the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture , allow visitors to interact with the local art community through a fine selection of their works.”

YACHATS: Another gem on the Oregon coast . Here’s some of what WorldAtlas has to say: “The Pacific Coast is lined with exquisite destinations waiting to be discovered, and Yachats is right up with the best. This tiny village of about 1,000 wakes up to the picturesque open spaces with striking water and mountain vistas. Thor’s Well is a must-visit in Yachats. This bottomless sinkhole seems to drain the Pacific Ocean waters in a continuous cycle, intriguing tourists and locals alike.”

“Bottomless sinkhole?” That may not be the most alluring description, but WorldAtlas also cites shopping at the Yachats Farmers Market and Earthworks Gallery, which “exhibits an assorted collection of jewelry, sculptures, furniture, and glassworks, offering a glimpse of the best local artistic creations.”

MOSIER: This one’s a bit of a surprise, considering the Wasco County community along the Columbia River doesn’t often turn up in these national lists. According to the WorldAtlas description, Mosier “presents some of the best vistas in the region. With less than 500 people calling Mosier home, vacationers have free reign to explore the vast open spaces and indulge in fun outdoor adventures. One of the best ways to do this is to hike, bike, or drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, which provides unprecedented views of the Columbia. Those seeking to spend quality alone time will love the seclusion and serenity of Memaloose State Park, with an opportunity to pitch a tent at the 66-site campground.”

JACKSONVILLE: The southern Oregon town is no stranger to best-of lists , and WorldAtlas joins in the chorus of compliments, inviting readers to explore “this beautiful town in Jackson County,” and to “discover a rich arts and culture scene and indulge in tasty craft wines while exploring. Steeped in Gold Rush heritage, Jacksonville has a charming downtown region with stunning old-world structures. The Jacksonville Inn is an excellent example of red brick construction styles in the town. Artistically inclined tourists might want to stop by the Art Presence Art Center to browse the beautiful works of local artists.”

GOLD BEACH : The southern Oregon coast is magnificent, though it’s mildly surprising to see Gold Beach singled out as one of the state’s prettiest towns. WorldAtlas makes the case by noting that Gold Beach is located where the Pacific Ocean and the Rogue River interact. “Gold Beach offers endless outdoor opportunities on land and water, including walking and hiking along the endless shoreline trails of Otter Point State Recreation Site. Additionally, local outfitters like Jerry’s Rogue Jets excite first-timers with adrenaline-inducing boast tours on the Rogue River for a unique perspective of the town from the water.”

The restaurant scene also gets mentioned, with Gold Beach BBQ and Arch Rock Brewing Company cited as good stops for visitors.

PROSPECT: Here’s another community that doesn’t often turn up on these lists. But WorldAtlas says, “Prepare for picturesque hikes, stunning views, and adrenaline-filled adventures in one of the prettiest towns to visit in Oregon. Prospect is a nature lover’s ultimate vacation destination, lying along the Rogue River and enveloped by the Siskiyou National Forest.” Also coming in for praise: “The scenery when you reach the Rogue River Gorge Viewpoint. Finally, Prospect is less than 30 minutes from Crater Lake National Park, making it the perfect jumping-off base for another natural wonder.”

The downtown Ashland's Plaza area, the historic gateway to Oregon Shakespeare Festival stages, is circled by small shops that have a big fan base beyond theater goers. Janet Eastman/The Oregonian

ASHLAND: No surprise to see the charming community of Ashland make this list. WorldAtlas says, “Many first-timers in Ashland automatically fall in love with the city, a credit to its immersive arts and culture scene. One of the community’s claims to fame is home to the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival. This premiere performance venue is famous for staging classic Shakespeare plays in its open-air theater, with more indoor theaters showcasing entertaining musicals.”

The WorldAtlas entry also mentions Lithia Park, and Ashland’s local craft winery scene.

SILVERTON : Plenty of people heading to Silver Falls State Park have become familiar with Silverton . WorldAtlas says, “Silverton is a delightful community with a welcoming atmosphere and quintessential small-town charm.” In addition to praising Silver Falls State Park, WorldAtlas also mentions Lunaria Gallery, the Oregon Crafter Market, and the nearby Oregon Garden.

A drive-through keeps the Oregon Trail spirit alive at York's Covered Wagon Deli in Baker City. Kathy Patten/For The Oregonian

BAKER CITY : Anyone who’s visited Baker City knows it’s well worth spending time exploring. WorldAtlas says, “Baker City is a lovely town along the Historic Oregon Trail with an interesting story to tell. It harbors a pedestrian-friendly historic district where tourists can stroll to discover the town’s rich heritage and well-preserved landmarks. The Baker Heritage Museum has a fascinating collection of interactive exhibits chronicling Baker City’s captivating past. Meanwhile, the Leo Adler House Museum provides a glimpse of life in town in the 19th century. This pleasant 1889 Italianate mansion has curious artifacts and furnishings depicting upper-middle-class living at the time.”

Stories by Kristi Turnquist

• ‘Yellowstone’ may not be ending after all, and a ‘Lost’ star joins the new spinoff
• Laika’s ‘Coraline’ re-release is ‘wildly unexpected hit at the box office’
• Oregon-filmed thriller ‘Strange Darling’ inspires raves, warnings not to reveal plot twists
• 25 best movies filmed in Oregon
• Oregon has 2 of ‘83 of the Most Charming Homes From Across the U.S.,’ says HGTV Magazine

— Kristi Turnquist covers features and entertainment. Reach her at 503-221-8227, [email protected] or @Kristiturnquist

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Best places to live in Oregon

An ideal town or neighborhood looks different for everyone.

Those who can't get enough of the outdoors may prioritize proximity to trails, lakes, and beaches, while parents are looking for places with top-ranked schools for their children. Culture lovers might want to live in a city with museums and art walks, whereas sports fans look for professional or college sports teams nearby.

Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in Oregon using data from Niche . Niche ranks places to live based on a variety of factors including cost of living, schools, health care, recreation, and weather.

On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks. Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums.

Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

CORRECTION: A previously published version of this piece, in some cases, incorrectly listed private schools as public schools.

#28. Bethany, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,126 - Population: 30,983 - Median household income: $156,512 - Median home value: $669,200 (69% own) - Median rent: $2,028 (31% rent) - Top public schools: Sunset High School (grade A), International School of Beaverton - High School (grade A), Lincoln High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#27. Cedar Hills, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,444 - Population: 9,076 - Median household income: $103,544 - Median home value: $555,600 (59% own) - Median rent: $1,421 (41% rent) - Top public schools: Sunset High School (grade A), International School of Beaverton - High School (grade A), Mountainside High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#26. Cedar Mill, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,308 - Population: 19,151 - Median household income: $165,184 - Median home value: $815,200 (76% own) - Median rent: $1,721 (24% rent) - Top public schools: Sunset High School (grade A), International School of Beaverton - High School (grade A), Mountainside High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#25. Lake Oswego, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,918 - Population: 40,457 - Median household income: $127,252 - Median home value: $825,000 (70% own) - Median rent: $1,979 (30% rent) - Top public schools: Lake Oswego Senior High School (grade A+), Lakeridge High School (grade A+), Oak Creek Elementary School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#24. Eliot, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 2,084 - Population: data not available - Median household income: data not available - Median home value: data not available (data not available own) - Median rent: data not available (data not available rent) - Top public schools: - Top private schools:

#23. Sylvan-Highlands, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 2,048 - Population: 1,296 - Median household income: $154,583 - Median home value: $846,900 (73% own) - Median rent: $2,709 (27% rent) - Top public schools: Mountainside High School (grade A), Lincoln High School (grade A), Beaverton Academy of Science & Engineering (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#22. South Burlingame, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 2,036 - Population: data not available - Median household income: data not available - Median home value: data not available (data not available own) - Median rent: data not available (data not available rent) - Top public schools: - Top private schools:

#21. Woodstock, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 2,031 - Population: 9,871 - Median household income: $113,069 - Median home value: $564,177 (74% own) - Median rent: $2,031 (26% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#20. Eastmoreland, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,725 - Population: 4,364 - Median household income: $208,951 - Median home value: $876,211 (93% own) - Median rent: $2,281 (7% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#19. Hosford-Abernethy, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,723 - Population: 7,142 - Median household income: $117,886 - Median home value: $712,088 (54% own) - Median rent: $1,759 (46% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#18. Forest Park, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,636 - Population: 3,972 - Median household income: $188,091 - Median home value: $849,515 (88% own) - Median rent: $2,070 (12% rent) - Top public schools: Sunset High School (grade A), International School of Beaverton - High School (grade A), Lincoln High School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#17. Hollywood, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,573 - Population: 2,447 - Median household income: $95,317 - Median home value: $681,429 (40% own) - Median rent: $1,486 (60% rent) - Top public schools: Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic High School (grade A+)

#16. Alameda, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,541 - Population: 5,236 - Median household income: $203,920 - Median home value: $854,609 (94% own) - Median rent: $2,835 (6% rent) - Top public schools: Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#15. Kerns, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,465 - Population: 6,491 - Median household income: $62,204 - Median home value: $648,979 (17% own) - Median rent: $1,428 (83% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#14. Southwest Hills, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,452 - Population: 7,436 - Median household income: $184,813 - Median home value: $966,057 (71% own) - Median rent: $2,359 (29% rent) - Top public schools: Mountainside High School (grade A), Lincoln High School (grade A), Sato Elementary School (grade A) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#13. Sunnyside, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,387 - Population: 8,057 - Median household income: $95,196 - Median home value: $617,488 (37% own) - Median rent: $1,711 (63% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#12. Sabin, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,375 - Population: 5,438 - Median household income: $151,102 - Median home value: $717,755 (68% own) - Median rent: $2,411 (32% rent) - Top public schools: Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Jesuit High School (grade A+), Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+)

#11. Richmond, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,338 - Population: 13,413 - Median household income: $121,061 - Median home value: $645,374 (59% own) - Median rent: $1,663 (41% rent) - Top public schools: Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus), Portland Arthur Academy (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Jesuit High School (grade A+), Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+)

#10. Hillside, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,317 - Population: 2,294 - Median household income: $189,686 - Median home value: $974,184 (89% own) - Median rent: $2,211 (11% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Sato Elementary School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#9. Arlington Heights, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,147 - Population: 998 - Median household income: $135,087 - Median home value: $954,832 (65% own) - Median rent: $1,299 (35% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Sato Elementary School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#8. Homestead, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,097 - Population: 2,642 - Median household income: $104,125 - Median home value: $766,339 (36% own) - Median rent: $1,531 (64% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), West Sylvan Middle School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#7. Laurelhurst, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,080 - Population: 4,800 - Median household income: $166,354 - Median home value: $860,499 (82% own) - Median rent: $1,851 (18% rent) - Top public schools: Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic High School (grade A+)

#6. Irvington, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 1,072 - Population: 6,692 - Median household income: $124,545 - Median home value: $869,703 (49% own) - Median rent: $1,781 (51% rent) - Top public schools: Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), Emerson School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+), Northwest Academy (grade A+)

#5. Sullivan's Gulch, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 857 - Population: 4,001 - Median household income: $99,954 - Median home value: $519,956 (28% own) - Median rent: $1,655 (72% rent) - Top public schools: Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Jesuit High School (grade A+), Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+)

#4. Grant Park, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 822 - Population: 3,492 - Median household income: $179,802 - Median home value: $880,717 (88% own) - Median rent: $1,799 (12% rent) - Top public schools: Odyssey Middle School (grade A), Grant High School (grade A minus), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Northwest Academy (grade A+), St. Mary's Academy (grade A+), Central Catholic High School (grade A)

#3. Pearl, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 807 - Population: 10,079 - Median household income: $122,307 - Median home value: $684,653 (28% own) - Median rent: $1,706 (72% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), West Sylvan Middle School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#2. Goose Hollow, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 617 - Population: 6,968 - Median household income: $83,976 - Median home value: $477,609 (23% own) - Median rent: $1,491 (77% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus), West Sylvan Middle School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

#1. Northwest District, Oregon

- Overall Rank: 531 - Population: 16,501 - Median household income: $80,266 - Median home value: $757,726 (21% own) - Median rent: $1,567 (79% rent) - Top public schools: Lincoln High School (grade A), Sato Elementary School (grade A), Le Monde French Immersion Public Charter School (grade A minus) - Top private schools: Catlin Gabel School (grade A+), Oregon Episcopal School (grade A+), Jesuit High School (grade A+)

This story features data reporting and writing by Elena Cox and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 42 states.

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I visited a Canadian province that felt like a dreamy, walkable mix of Europe and the Pacific Northwest

• I'm a Los Angeles resident who enjoyed visiting Victoria, Canada.
• In the capital of British Columbia, the locals I encountered seemed very happy and friendly.
• Victoria felt like a unique mixture of the UK and Portland, and I'd love to return in the future.

Photographs of Victoria make the city look like it's straight out of a fairy tale. And I, a Los Angeles resident, wasn't disappointed when I visited the capital of British Columbia for the first time.

It was immediately clear to me that Victoria was special. From its historic architecture to its well-manicured gardens, there were charming sites everywhere I looked. 

Here's what my summertime visit to Victoria was like.

I went to Victoria, Canada, from Los Angeles.

I flew into Victoria from Whistler on one of Harbour Air's carbon-neutral seaplanes, which takes off and lands on water.

My ticket cost the same as a seat on a standard aircraft routed between Whistler and Victoria, so I decided to arrive by seaplane for the unique experience.

I learned about the city's history by visiting different architectural sites and landmarks.

British Columbia was a royal colony under British rule before it became the sixth province of Canada in 1871. Today, the region's ties to the UK are reflected in Victoria's impressive, stately architecture.

But the city's history stretches much further back than the British settlers' arrival in 1778.

The Lekwungen people had already lived there for thousands of years. I learned about the Indigenous groups' cultures and histories by visiting some of the city's longstanding landmarks, like the totem poles and the Signs of Lekwungen .

Elements of Victoria reminded me of two very different places: the UK and Portland, Oregon.

My first impression of Victoria was that it felt like a combination of the UK and Portland, Oregon . 

Throughout my trip, I picked up on the British influence on the city, particularly during a  "Castles, Hoods, & Legends" bike tour that took me to landmarks including Craigdarroch Castle and Beacon Hill Park. I also went to Hotel Fairmont Empress to enjoy afternoon tea, one of the UK's centuries-old traditions.

Other parts of Victoria, such as its inclusive and progressive community, reminded me of Portland. My tour guide informed me that British Columbia is historically one of Canada's more liberal provinces, and during my trip, I saw a lot of pride flags hanging around town. 

I also noticed many environmentally focused initiatives led by community members and local businesses, like Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Tours, a carbon-neutral whale-watching company.

The locals seemed more upbeat and outgoing than the people I've met in Los Angeles.

Victoria's atmosphere felt similarly progressive to where I live in Los Angeles , but people in the capital city seemed so much nicer and happier.

Everyone in town who I interacted with was genuinely friendly, which immediately stuck out to me.

Downtown Victoria was very accessible by bike and on foot.

Strolling through Victoria, which is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, was a breeze.

The streets were extremely accessible by foot or by bike, and there were wide bike lanes everywhere I went.

The city celebrated the arrival of summer by hanging hundreds of flower baskets around town.

It seemed like there were flowers blooming everywhere I looked in Victoria. 

Each June, the city marks the start of summer by hanging hundreds of flower baskets around town. The tradition dates all the way back to 1937. 

Though I didn't make it to the iconic Butchart Gardens on this trip, I've heard its beautiful blossoms are legendary.

The logistics of traveling between the US and Canada were more straightforward than I expected.

In terms of logistics, traveling from the US to Canada wasn't too challenging.

I took a flight, but there's even a ferry from Seattle to Victoria . My cellphone still worked since my Verizon unlimited data plan carried over to Canada and Mexico.

My credit card also worked, although I had to pay a small international service fee when I used it in Canada. However, these additional fees vary by credit card .

I recommend withdrawing Canadian dollars out of the ATM for smaller purchases rather than using a credit card to pay for taxis or items at the market.

Victoria's restaurant and bar scene blew me away, and the prices were similar to what I would pay in Los Angeles.

The food I ate in Victoria was fantastic, and the prices were on par with what I would pay in Los Angeles. 

Victoria had a ton of restaurants, bars, and breweries — including Spinnakers, Canada's oldest licensed brewpub.

I'm used to bars in the US being strict about only allowing people 21 and older inside. So, I thought it was funny that Spinnakers had a sign saying patrons had to be at least 19, the legal drinking age in Canada, to enter.

I had to get used to using the international metric system during my trip.

As someone who grew up in the US , I've always used the imperial system. However, Canada uses the international metric system.

When I was in Victoria, it wasn't hard to figure out conversions (like calculating how many kilometers I kayaked), but it took me a moment to get used to the system. 

Knowing how to switch between the imperial and international metric systems is important since the latter is used in many places outside the US.

Overall, I really enjoyed my first visit to Victoria and would love to return.

Because of Victoria's friendly locals, tasty food, and abundance of outdoor activities, it's definitely a place that I'll return to explore more in the future.

This story was originally published on September 12, 2022, and most recently updated on August 28, 2024.

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