weekend trips oregon

15 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Oregon

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

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

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

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

1. Crater Lake National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Within the city, Hood River provides cultural entertainment including local restaurants and a historic downtown shopping area. The Best Western Plus Hood River Inn is a well-reputed hotel in Hood River thanks to rooms and suites with views of the river, as well as an onsite restaurant and scenic outdoor pool and hot tub area.

Newport is a top destination along the Oregon Coast. It's home to world-renowned attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium and worldly views at places like Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area . It's also a great jumping-off point for exploring Oregon's Central Coast, filled with a fun ebb and flow of sightseeing attractions.

Newport is also an excellent destination to enjoy the beach. Several beaches near Newport attract attention, but perhaps none more so than Nye Beach within the city limits. This beautiful stretch of sand is wide and accommodating and great for all types of beach activities. It's also connected to a charming and historic retail and shopping district that's easy to spend a weekend enjoying.

The Hallmark Resort in Newport lends access to both the beach and nearby city attractions.

Surrounded by scenic attractions, the McKenzie River of central Oregon offers all sorts of recreation. This river corridor is home to wild blue pools, enormous waterfalls, and some of Oregon's best hot springs .

The McKenzie River also parallels the 26.4-mile McKenzie River National Recreation Trail . The river is popular for boaters, and on nearly any warm day of the year, you can expect to find rafts, kayaks, and the occasional tube making its way down the river.

With many ways to access the natural wonders of this stunning waterway, one of the best weekend trips involves multiple nights at the aptly named Paradise Campground , operated by the National Forest Service.

For a roof over your head and easy access to a shower, the nearby cities of Bend and Salem are the largest cities with the easiest access. One of the premier hotels in Bend, the Riverhouse on the Deschutes provides a vacation experience in itself.

Depoe Bay is a whale-spotting town on the central Oregon coast, perhaps better known as the "Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast". The town's western edge comprises a steep sea cliff, offering an excellent vantage point for spotting migrating whales or the town's resident pod of grey whales.

And there's a lot more to do outside of spotting massive mammals. Depoe Bay's downtown district offers charming beach vacation vibes, with saltwater taffy confections and locally sourced seafood on the menus.

Other top attractions of Depoe Bay include picnicking at Fogarty Creek or chartering a ride out on the World's Smallest Harbor.

For a place to stay in Depoe Bay, the Whale Cove Inn offers all-day whale watching from a sprawling, private back porch.

The State Capitol building is a great first stop when visiting Salem, including the manicured State Capitol State Park complete with statues, memorials, and interpretive information. The gilded Oregon Pioneer atop the State Capitol overlooks the many other fun things to do in this thriving city of over 160,000 residents, including the inviting landscape of Riverside State Park.

The capitol building is open to the public and adorned with stately paintings and architecture. Guided tours are available, and many opt for a self-guided experience. Other family-friendly places to check out nearby include the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, the Gilbert House Children's Museum, and the Enchanted Forest - a fairytale-infused theme park on the south side of the city.

For the ultimate weekend getaway, The Grand Hotel in Salem is connected to the Convention Center, with luxurious rooms and suites available, as well as a decadent in-house restaurant that can add to any romantic weekend getaway.

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

The southern portion of the Oregon coastline offers a scenic and rugged postcard-worthy landscape. Sea stacks of all shapes and sizes, secret beaches only accessible at low tide, and up-and-down hiking trails that will test your legs offer plenty of adventure.

The best frame for the southern Oregon coast can be found within the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, a 12-mile linear state park connecting the coast to Highway 101. Options and parking areas abound for quick and prolonged stops, and the Oregon Coast Trail connects every scenic mile along the way.

A few of the many roadside stops and viewpoints to check out include Arch Rock, Natural Bridge , and the crescent beach presented at the Lone Ranch Picnic Area. Whales are often spotted from places like Cape Ferrelo during the spring and summer, and seabirds and other wildlife are common sights throughout the year.

One of the best campgrounds on the Oregon coast , Harris Beach State Park lends immediate access to Samuel H. Boardman from the south, and the Best Western Beachfront Inn in Brookings provides oceanside rooms less than five miles from the scenic corridor.

Joseph is a mountain town in northeast Oregon with a long-standing history. The Wallowa Mountains give the town its upright and dazzling scenery, and the Nez Perce Tribe adds to the long legacy. The town itself is named after Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce People and is home to his burial site, now today part of Nez Perce National Historical Park .

Alongside the cultural legacy, the outdoors are a big attraction of Joseph. The shimmering Wallowa Lake sits just south of the city, backdropped by impressive mountain peaks. Wallowa Lake State Park is on the southern end of the water, offering a popular campground.

Nearby, the Wallowa Lake Tramway takes visitors all the way to the top of Mount Howard with no hiking involved.

For indoor accommodations near Wallowa Lake, consider a rustic-yet-modern accommodation like Eagle Cap Chalets . This charming property has cabins, condos, and hotel rooms to choose from, all with fast access to the surrounding stunning environment.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Where to Stay on a Weekend Getaway in Oregon: If your short break is all about rest and relaxation rather than adventure, your destination may come down to finding a beautiful resort in Oregon, where you can park yourself for a couple of days. You can find some of the best ones along the Oregon Coast. Spend your weekend looking out over the ocean and enjoying the sunsets, and maybe add on some time at the spa and enjoy some good meals.

More on Oregon

• Last Updated On
• November 21, 2023

39 Best Weekend Getaways in Oregon — Quick Trips!

Oregon offers a picturesque weekend getaway.

With its captivating natural wonders, the Beaver State boasts some of the most breathtaking sceneries on the West Coast.

The state’s vibrant urban culture is also perfect if you prefer a fun city escapade.

But planning a quick trip is much more challenging, especially in such a vast place as Oregon.

And I’ve experienced this firsthand in my several trips to the state.

That’s why I’m here to help you plan a quick Oregon trip.

Are you seeking a quick adventure?

Or do you prefer just to unwind and relax over the weekend?

In this article, I’ll share with you my top picks for the best weekend getaways in Oregon.

I’ll rate and compare each destination based on strategic rating criteria.

I’ll also talk about my experience in each getaway to help you get a clearer picture of what to expect. 

So, check out my full review below for a memorable weekend trip to Oregon.

Best Weekend Getaways In Oregon Compared

Oregon has a plethora of charming, picture-perfect hotels. Here’s how I rated my top picks for a fun weekend getaway in the state.

Editor’s Choice

Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, Astoria

A romantic getaway in Oregon, the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa is known for its incredible view of the Columbia River.

• Room Variety: 5/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 5/5
• Affordability: 3.5/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

The Setting Inn Willamette Valley, Newberg (Formerly LePuy)

You will want to stay at The Setting Inn Willamette Valley because they will give you an experience you won’t forget.

• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Family-Friendliness: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood

Now, while you’re in Mount Hood and looking for a place to stay, the Timberline Lodge is a terrific choice.

• Room Variety: 4/5

Here are the top 39 weekend getaways in Oregon.

1. Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, Astoria (Editor’s Choice)

No. 10 Basin Street Astoria, OR, 97103 (503) 325-4996 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Panoramic views of the Columbia River
• On-site spa with a range of relaxing treatments
• Expensive rates

It’s called Cannery because it was converted from a fish cannery that was about 600 feet in the water back in the day.

Today, it’s a delightful hotel for anyone looking to explore Astoria.

The view from your private balcony is breathtaking, no doubt, but the service is impeccable too.

The rooms here come with all the modern amenities you might need on vacation.

There’s also a fireplace and a huge clawfoot tub in the room, which only enhances the experience.

2. The Setting Inn Willamette Valley, Newberg (Formerly LePuy)

20300 OR-240 Newberg, OR 97132 (503) 554-9528 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Tranquil setting
• Spacious rooms with private balconies
• Limited dining options

Newberg is often referred to as the wine country of Oregon.

And when you’re here, you want to stay at The Setting Inn Willamette Valley because they will give you an experience you won’t forget.

This is a great place no matter what kind of weekend getaways in OR you are looking for.

But those who are looking for an idyllic place for a romantic getaway will particularly enjoy their time here because that’s their main focus.

This place is great if you want to wake up to a gourmet breakfast and then spend some more time sleeping off the food fatigue.

You will be served exquisite items like cheese blintzes brought along with homemade strawberry jam.

There’s also smoked salmon which is always great and you can also opt for egg crepes if that’s your thing along with vegetable stratas.

This isn’t just another B&B.

Visit and you’ll see for yourself.

3. Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood

27500 E Timberline Road Government Camp, OR 97028 (503) 272-3410 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning views of Mount Hood
• Historic, rustic rooms
• Small room and bedroom space

That’s not just because it’s a haven for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

It’s also not just because it’s in the midst of the Northern mountains.

It’s all that and more.

This lodge is built on the slope of Mount Hood and its altitude is 6,000 feet.

So, rest assured that the view will be incredible.

There’s also snowboarding and skiing here all through the year which is another bonus.

And after that, you can come back to the lodge for some luxury, rooms with European decor and fireplaces.

4. Overleaf Lodge and Spa, Yachats

280 Overleaf Lodge Lane Yachats, OR 97498 (800) 338-0507 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With a picturesque oceanfront location, Overleaf Lodge and Spa is a beautiful alternative to The Setting Inn Willamette Valley and Timberline Lodge.

Those who are looking at weekend trips in Oregon along the coast should definitely take a look at the Overleaf Lodge and Spa in Yachats.

First of all, this is a fantastic place to bunk at while you enjoy the coast.

This is a family-owned lodge where you will get special attention because that’s what they are hoping to give you.

There are suites and rooms available to be booked.

If you pick a suite, you will enjoy a terrific view of the Pacific Ocean.

Some of the rooms will offer that too, but you might have to make sure that happens.

The suites also come with a full kitchen which is perfect for those who like to take care of their food themselves.

But there is a pantry in the inn that is stocked with snacks and drinks.

You can enjoy them at the hotel or pack some for a picnic that you can enjoy on the beach.

As the name mentions, there is also a spa on the premises which will help those who just want to sit back and relax.

Related: Places to Eat in Cannon Beach

5. Hallmark Resort & Spa, Cannon Beach

1400 South Hemlock Street Cannon Beach, OR 97110 (855) 392-3279 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

While you’re visiting Cannon Beach, you should look at Hallmark Resort & Spa as a lodging option.

It’s a luxurious place with tremendous food options and a full-service spa too.

You will find the rooms elegant, facing the sea and with world-class amenities.

The resort also has a fitness center and a sauna for relaxation.

Suites are available too and you should check out beach houses if you’re a large group.

A lot of those beach houses come with fireplaces, patios or balconies facing the ocean, fully functioning kitchens and free Wi-Fi.

There’s also a spa where you can get massages and other body treatments.

And if you want to head out, there are any number of cafes, shops and restaurants to check out.

It’s a great pick for those who are looking at romantic getaways in Oregon.

Related: Family Beaches in Oregon

6. Mount Hood

Mount Hood, OR 97055 (503) 668-1700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is in north-central Oregon and is the tallest mountain in the state.

Mount Hood is just about 50 miles from Portland, which means the residents there love coming here for weekend getaways.

This is obviously a mountainous region and it’s been known for being home to the Mount Hood National Forest, which is a great place for recreational activities like horse riding, mountain biking, hiking and backpacking.

Then there is the Pacific Crest Trail which is a forest area between Mexico and Canada that has more than a few yards of hiking trails.

Those who like waterfalls and lakes will thoroughly enjoy a trip to Ramona Falls and Trillium Lake.

If you’re planning a trip in the winter, there are plenty of ski resorts to check in to.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Mt. Hood Inn

Related: Best Resorts in Oregon

7. Portland

Portland, OR (503) 427-1372 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

And now we come to a very popular name in the state of Oregon.

Portland is at the heart of the culture of this state and it’s no surprise that people love to visit over the weekend.

Plenty of times, these visits are what convince them to consider it as a place for relocation.

But while you’re here for the weekend, you should check out some popular hotspots like Powell’s City of Books, the Portland Art Museum and the Japanese Rose Garden.

And while you’re here, you will also notice that the people of Portland are very friendly.

Now, there are a lot of natural attractions too in Portland.

You will find that places like Forest Park, Powell Butte and Mount Tabor are completely worth your while.

They are especially great for people who like to go hiking.

And if you are just looking for a great view, you can head to the Columbia River Gorge or Mount Hood.

And you can go to all these places using the Portland public transportation system.

It’s quite easy to navigate.

Recommended Hotel: Park Lane Suites & Inn

8. Sentinel, Portland

614 SW 11th Ave Portland, OR 97205 (503) 224-3400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

While in Portland, you’re going to need a place to stay and this one is a great pick.

Sentinel is a lovely boutique hotel.

It has been here since 1909, which is why there’s a touch of history to the place.

It has won a few awards in the recent past, which establishes it as an excellent choice.

The rooms are luxurious but here’s the one you should pay attention to if you are on a romantic getaway.

You want to check out the City Terrace suite, which is on the top floor of the hotel.

There is a terrace, a great view and an outdoor fire pit.

It’s a fantastic place to relax and to connect or reconnect with your partner.

There’s also the Salt & Straw ice cream to try while you’re here.

It’s a specialty and there are some other unique flavors too.

9. Kimpton Riverplace Hotel, Portland

1510 SW Harbor Way Portland, OR 97201 (888) 869-3108 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Then in downtown Portland there’s the Kimpton Riverplace Hotel.

This is a great choice for those who want a little bit of luxury while they go enjoy their outdoor activities.

You will have a wonderful place to come back to.

The rooms are warm and glowing with lanterns.

The hotel is in the Pacific Northwest and the rooms offer a great view from your riverside courtyard.

You will be able to start each day with a fresh cup of Joe.

And you can end the day at the fire pit with some s’mores.

After your adventures during the day, this is a nice place to return to and relax because the vibe here is one of serenity.

Related: Things to Do in Oregon

10. Benson Hotel, Portland

309 SW Broadway Portland, OR 97205 (503) 228-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Then there is the Benson Hotel which is a historic landmark.

This hotel has been in Portland since 1913 and it has that vintage European design to make it dazzle.

The rooms come equipped with modern amenities and the hotel is perfectly located.

It is close to a good deal of entertainment, shopping and fine dining options in downtown Portland.

You should also plan a visit to the Pearl District which you’re here because it’s very close to the hotel.

And it’s also quite close to the Portland Center Stage.

There are a lot of restaurants, bars, boutique shops and art galleries in the area.

You can access all that and more and come back to relax at the Benson Hotel.

Bend, OR (541) 382-8048 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re in central Oregon and want a weekend getaway where you will get a good deal of sun almost all through the year, Bend is a good pick.

This one is a little east to the Cascade Range and it’s a desert location.

The city is also quite close to Willamette National Forest and Deschutes County.

So, you can also check out the wilderness in Three Sisters Wilderness and Mount Bachelor.

Within the city, you will have access to the Deschutes River.

It’s a popular hangout among those who like fishing and floating.

There is also the Whitewater Park in the city, which is a great place for hydrodynamic adventures.

You should also check out the Old Mill District if you want to see what the good old days with lots of lumber were like back in the day in Bend.

It’s a great way to experience the culture of the city’s past.

Then there is the high Desert Museum which is another place to learn about Bend’s past.

If you want to go hiking, there are some excellent trails in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

And you can’t leave Bend without visiting the Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Premier Peppertree Inn at Bend

Related: Best Restaurants in Bend

12. Oregon Caves Chateau

20000 Caves Hwy Cave Junction, OR 97523 (541) 592-3400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is the place that is known to give its guests an authentic Oregon experience.

The Oregon caves Chateau is in between hills which means you will be assured of a great view.

It’s also a bit away from the city, which is great for those who want peace and quiet.

This is a small building with six stories of old-school charm for you to enjoy.

And while you’re here, you should visit the Oregon Caves National Monument.

It’s a great choice whether you want to explore caves, check out wildlife or hike.

13. Green Springs Inn & Cabins, Ashland

11470 OR-66 Ashland, OR 97520 (877) 411-5545 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Green Springs is where you go when you want a calm and romantic weekend.

This place is a getaway in the true sense of the word.

It’s calm and secluded and gets you away from all the things you want to avoid.

And this is a cabin in the woods, not the movie, where you will be comfortable and relaxed.

It’s a cabin, but you will have amenities like private Jacuzzis outdoors and plenty of nature to enjoy while you chill.

They will make you a great meal when you’re ready for it and you will love the time you spend here.

Related: Things to Do in Oregon with Kids

14. Lithia Springs Resort, Ashland

2165 West Jackson Road Ashland, OR 97520 (800) 482-7128 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Another excellent lodging option in Ashland, the Lithia Springs Resort is for those who want to go to Rogue Valley to get away from city life.

There are spa-like amenities in the 38 different lodging options.

You will have the choice of booking rooms, studios, suites and bungalows to choose from.

All of them come with Wi-Fi and they are decorated with elegance.

The lodging options come with an AC, fireplace, full kitchen, bar, private patio, iron and ironing board, soaking tub, bedrooms and more.

There’s also a coffee maker and a mini fridge.

Guests can take turns and enjoy a dip in the mineral waters on the property.

But there is also an outdoor swimming pool and a whirlpool.

If you’re on a romantic getaway, you can chill at the koi pond, gazebo or the fireplace in the lobby.

You can also lose yourself in a book at the library.

And yes, there’s a spa with a wide range of treatments too.

Related: Best Restaurants in Ashland

15. The Palm, Ashland

1065 Siskiyou Blvd Ashland, OR 97250 (541) 482-2636 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ashland also has The Palm which is an eco-friendly hotel.

It’s right across the road from Southern Oregon University.

There are manicured gardens, a swimming pool and the rooms are comfortable.

Each of them comes with king and queen beds, a breakfast nook, fireplace and comfortable bathrooms.

You will also have your own deck to enjoy the view of the garden.

The rooms also have a TV, kitchen, coffeemaker, microwave, free Wi-Fi and more.

There’s also a heated saltwater swimming pool which is fun to check out.

You will also find private cabanas by the pool and you can chill there looking at those beautiful gardens.

16. Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area OR, 97031 (541) 308-1700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This river is along the Washington and Oregon border.

It has some truly terrific scenery and a few great waterfalls too.

One of those is the Multnomah Falls which is 620 feet tall.

There are some lovely hiking trails along Eagle Creek.

And you can go windsurfing and kiteboarding too in the park.

You can access this gorge through the river currents that are heading east.

There are plenty of parking spots along the Columbia River Highway and Interstate 84, which will lead you to some incredible trails.

You will have access to eateries and shops near Hood River.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn

17. Baywood Shores B&B, Lincoln City

1281 SW 62nd St Lincoln City, OR 97367 (800) 327-0486 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for coastal chic, then the Baywood Shores B&B is the place to be.

You want to plan a romantic getaway to this place because you have a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean to set the mood.

It’s a cozy place with two suites and a few rooms.

The suites come with a king bed, Jacuzzi for two people, a fireplace and a private deck.

And you will get a delicious breakfast every morning delivered to your room.

Related: Family Hotels in Oregon

18. Astoria

Astoria, OR (800) 875-6807 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’ve watched the 80s classic Goonies, you know Astoria is where it was set.

And if you like to travel a lot, you will know it from the Oregon Film Museum located downtown.

It’s on the northwest side of Oregon and is known for its Pacific Northwest vibe.

There’s a lot of fun here in the form of steamboats that will take you around for sightseeing.

And while you’re on one of those, you will learn about the fishing culture of the place.

Take a walk on the streets and you will encounter some breathtaking architecture too.

The place looks like something out of a treasure map which is fun just to be in.

But if you’re looking for adventures in nature, you should head to the Fort Stevens State Park.

There’s the ocean, sure, but you will also get to see actual shipwrecks here.

The park itself is spread over 3,700 acres and there are literally hundreds of campsites here.

Recommended Hotel: Selina Commodore Astoria

19. Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake, OR 97604 (541) 594-3000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Our first choice on the list of Oregon vacations is Crater Lake National Park.

And there’s a good reason for it.

It’s a beautiful and unique place in this state not just because there’s just one national park in this state.

This was the place where 7,000 years ago, Mount Mazama erupted.

As a result, there are a lot of interesting remnants you will see.

The water in this lake is still deep blue and it gets its water only from melted snow and rainwater.

So, it is still known to be a pristine lake, one of the best in the world.

The view here is incredible and if you want to go hiking you should not skip the Discovery Point.

Recommended Hotel: Crater Lake Resort

Eugene, OR (800) 875-6807 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Eugene is a city with a lot of cultural fervor.

It is home to the Oregon Ducks and the University of Oregon, which is why it is often called a collegiate city.

But outside of that, there are plenty of reasons to visit Eugene.

There are a lot of arboretums, gardens and city parks.

There’s also a popular Saturday market that you should visit, especially when it’s warm outside.

There are a few great national forests, namely the Siuslaw National Forest, where you will get to see the west side of the ocean.

On the east you have the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests.

This is a mountainous region where you can go hiking or skiing depending on the weather.

The city is pretty outdoors-y so you will have plenty of company too.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Eugene

21. Pendleton House, Pendleton

311 North Main Street Pendleton, OR 97801 (541) 612-8311 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are in eastern Oregon and looking for an elegant place to stay, Pendleton House is a good pick.

The accommodation is comfortable to say the least and they are well-known for their hospitality.

The hotel itself was built in 1917 and the decor and overall architecture reflect that.

You will be reminded of the Italian Renaissance while you’re here, which makes the whole experience rather exciting.

After a century, the building is still in great shape and it’s a lovely choice for a romantic getaway too.

22. Hood River

Hood River, OR (541) 386-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hood River is located about 60 miles from Portland and it’s on the Columbia River.

The community here is known to be friendly and there is a lot of recreation everywhere you look.

For instance, if you like kiteboarding or windsurfing, you will have a great time here.

There’s also the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway which is for those of you who like a view.

Get on the Mount Hood Railroad to take a look at the hiking trails.

There’s also an auto-touring option along the Columbia River Gorge.

You will also have access to places like Timberline Lodge here which we’ll elaborate on in just a minute.

And there’s plenty of cultural entertainment too along with shopping options in the downtown area.

Recommended Hotel: Timberline Lodge

23. Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach, OR Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Speaking of spending quality time at the beach, this is a great option in Oregon.

Cannon Beach is on the northern side of the Oregon coast and is known for its beaches which have been the talk of the town for a century.

You get to take in a beautiful view and it’s just 90 minutes away from the City of Roses.

It’s a tourist hotspot where a lot of people who live in Portland visit for a weekend getaway.

Offshore, you will have the joy of checking out Haystack Rock which, as the name suggests, is a sea stack that many birds visit.

If you come here on a low tide day, you will see a lot of tide pools as well.

And that’s a good time to take the sun in, fly kites, check out the tides and more.

Those who want arcade parlors or ice cream should head downtown.

Recommended Hotel: Inn at Cannon Beach

24. Central Oregon Coast

Oregon Coast Range, OR Open in Google Maps

This is the coastline from Depoe Bay to Florence, which is just scintillating for those who want weekend activities, fun cities to drive through and a great view.

There is a sea cliff that is just steep enough to get the adrenaline pumping.

The Depoe Bay border is another perfect spot to check out some gray whales.

It’s also why this town is called the whale-watching capital.

You can stay at the Whale Cove Inn while you’re here and prepare for some whale spotting.

Newport is quite close by which has a lot of scenic locations like the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area.

The coastline is rugged and the rocks and waves at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area are a sight for sore eyes.

Recommended Hotel: Hallmark Resort – Newport

25. Country House Inns, Jacksonville

240 E California St Jacksonville, OR 97530 (541) 899-6806 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

If you are in Jacksonville, you should stay at the Country House Inn for more reasons than one.

The inn is at three locations and they have a total of 27 rooms in Jacksonville.

All the rooms have one king or two queen beds and they are pet-friendly.

You can also book whirlpool suites and if you’re looking for a piece of history, head to the McCully House for deluxe guest rooms.

And here, you will have regional dishes made available to you at the Déjà vu Bistro & Wine Bar.

There are Wine cottages in one residence and they come with outdoor seating.

You will be served continental breakfast every morning and also get a gift certificate if you want to explore local eateries.

26. Embarcadero Resort Hotel & Marina, Newport

1000 Southeast Bay Boulevard Newport, OR 97365 (541) 265-8521 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

If you’re in Newport, you should definitely check out the Embarcadero Resort.

This is a great place to experience the Oregon coast.

The accommodation is luxurious and the furnishings are top notch.

You will have a private deck overlooking the serene waters of Yaquina Bay and Bridge.

You can also access the indoor saltwater pool, sauna and a spa on the premises.

Plus, the food here is fantastic.

The gourmet dishes like fresh fish tacos, creamy salmon risotto and grilled steak are quite the experience.

So, you don’t have to leave the resort for anything.

27. Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites, Newport (Formerly Elizabeth Street Inn)

232 Southwest Elizabeth Street Newport, OR 97365 (541) 265-9400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites is another great option in Newport.

If you want a great ocean view and a getaway from the rest of the world, this is the one for you.

There will be a roaring fire waiting for you and a good book or a bit of wine—both pair very well with it.

You can enjoy the view of the Pacific Ocean from your room or take a walk along the beach.

There are honeymoon suites and rooms that come with a coffee maker, fridge, fireplace and microwave for your convenience.

If you pick a north view room, you will see the Yaquina Head Lighthouse too.

There will be a hot gourmet breakfast every morning and an indoor oceanfront pool to relax in.

You can also access their whirlpool spa or go to the exercise room for a quick workout session.

28. Channel House, Depoe Bay

35 Ellingson Street, Depoe Bay, OR 97341 (800) 447-2140 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Channel House is an oceanfront property right along the Depoe Bay coast.

It’s got some stunning views of the Pacific Northwest and it’s a great place to relax and soothe yourself.

With the charm of a country inn and the accommodation of a luxury hotel, Channel House is also a romantic getaway.

The rooms all have a great view of the ocean from the balcony and you will see the beauty of the Oregon coast crystal clear.

There’s also a hot tub right there on your balcony which will bring the romance to your doorstep.

29. McKenzie River

McKenzie River, OR (541) 844-5990 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for recreation with a view, this is a great destination in Oregon.

The McKenzie River has some insanely blue pools, breathtaking waterfalls and hot springs too.

It’s a river corridor that also has the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, extending 26.4 miles alongside.

This is a popular choice for those who like kayaking, rafting, tubing and more when it’s warm.

And there are plenty of trips to Paradise Campground, which the National Forest Service takes care of.

You can spend more than a night here and you won’t forget that experience for a long time to come.

There is a shower and you’ll have a place to stay in Salem and Bend, which are nearby.

Recommended Hotel: Eagle Rock Lodge

30. Smith Creek Village, Sublimity (Formerly Silver Falls Lodge)

20022 Silver Falls Hwy SE Sublimity, OR 97385 (503) 894-7533 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This one is in the Silver Falls State Park and it’s a deluxe lodge.

There is an option to go camping too.

The Smith Creek Village is a great place if you want to enjoy nature but with amenities that don’t make you curse your choice the way it happens sometimes.

It’s a delightful mountain treat with log cabins, lodges, rooms, and glamping options.

There are big bathrooms with showers, wood-burning stoves and internet access.

It’s a romantic place with a great view and a romantic vibe.

Plus, you will be served some delicious food at the Big Leaf Coffeehouse and Grill.

Every day, this grill serves a variety of hearty and delectable American plates for lunch and breakfast.

On Sundays, this eatery beckons guests with its tempting brunch menu.

Salem, OR (503) 581 4325 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Salem has 160,000 residents and a lovely landscape at the Riverside State Park.

If a view is what you want, you should also check out the State Capitol State Park.

But your first visit should be to the State Capitol building.

You will get a great view from the Oregon Pioneer on top of this building and there are a lot of fun activities too.

The building is open to the public so that you can enjoy their architecture and the many paintings inside.

If you want information, there are guided tours.

And if you’re looking to learn about their history with your kids, there’s the Gilbert House Children’s Museum.

And if you are a fan of the arts, there is the Hallie Ford Museum of Art.

But if you want to check out an amusement park with a fairytale theme, Enchanted Forest is the place to be.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites

32. The Bronze Antler B&B, Joseph

309 South Main Street Joseph, OR 97846 (541) 432-0230 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The name gives away the fact that this is a rustic bed and breakfast.

It’s in the mountainous part of Oregon and Joseph is a pretty remote town.

Those who want a romantic getaway often have a great time here.

You will see the Rocky Mountains in all their snow-covered glory from any room in this B&B.

The beddings are plus, the furniture is luxurious and the room is overall just incredible.

You will also have access to Wallowa Lake, which is a great place for activities like kayaking, scuba diving, swimming and so on.

But make sure you do that in the summer.

33. WildSpring Guest Habitat

92978 Cemetery Loop Port Orford, OR 97465 (866) 333-9453 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re in wildSpring and looking for a place to stay, this is a pretty great pick.

The WildSpring Guest Habitat is home to a lot of wilderness which is music to your ears if you’re a nature lover.

Those who want a romantic getaway will also love this place because it is secluded, in the woods and there are lots of cabins to choose from.

The cabins are built like homes, but they have vaulted ceilings, heated floors, huge windows, great bathrooms and more.

You will have a really great time in their hot tub that overlooks the ocean.

And there’s a spa too.

If you were looking for peace, quiet, luxury and relaxation, this is it.

34. Arch Cape Inn & Retreat, Arch Cape

31970 East Ocean Lane Arch Cape, OR 97102 (800) 436-2848 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re near Cannon Beach, the Arch Cape Inn & Retreat is an excellent choice.

Those who are looking for an oceanfront property while on a beach vacation will have a great time here.

And that’s not just because the beaches are pristine and the shore is sandy white.

Your hotel has a steamy sauna and your room will come with a deep soaking tub.

There’s also a gas fireplace and you can enjoy it with a glass of wine.

The furniture in the room is elegant and there are sleigh beds too.

The bathrooms are spacious and have showers.

And you can enjoy the view from the patio or your room’s balcony.

Every morning, you will be served a gourmet breakfast that is complimentary.

And a visit to the beach is unforgettable because there’s plenty of dolphin and whale spotting to do.

35. Diamond Lake Resort, Diamond Lake

350 Resort Drive Diamond Lake, OR 97731 (541) 793-3333 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Diamond Lake Resort is actually in the Crater Lake National park.

It’s a lovely place to visit with the whole family because the food is delicious, the accommodation is comfortable and there are a lot of outdoor activities here.

There are hotel rooms, guest cabins with two bedrooms, family cabins, studios designed like boutiques and one suite.

The decor everywhere is warm and the view is perfect.

You can have lunch and dinner at the restaurant in the resort called the Mt. Bailey Grill and Sports Lounge.

There’s also South Shore Pizza and they are both known for their traditional cuisine options.

The resort is known for hiking, biking, fishing and horseback riding if you visit in the summer.

If you visit in the winter, you can try snowshoeing, snowmobiling, tubing, snowboarding and more.

36. Crater Lake Lodge, White City

1211 Avenue C White City, OR 97503 (800) 678-8946 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Those who want a 1920s experience will really enjoy a visit to Crater Lake Lodge in White City.

This place has been around for about 100 years and it’s quite charming.

Those who come here feel like they’ve been teleported to the past but the service is outstanding, the dining options are fine and the accommodation is, in general, elegant.

There are 71 rooms with great furnishing and bathrooms with tubs and showers.

There is no TV or phone in the room but you will have a view you can’t forget.

The Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room will offer some great food that is made with locally produced ingredients.

You will also have access to their rather exhaustive wine list.

This one is also in the Crater Lake National Park, which means you can hike or take a boat ride near the volcano.

There are guided tours too, which give you a deeper look into the history and culture of the place.

You could also try camping or fishing here because it’s a gorgeous place.

Recommended Hotel: Resort at Eagle Point Golf Club Lodging

37. Morrison’s Rogue River Lodge, Merlin

8500 Galice Road Merlin, OR 97532 (800) 826-1963 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Morrison’s Rogue River Lodge is a very popular spot in Oregon for all those who like to go rafting and fishing.

It overlooks the Rogue River which is an amazing view and experience on its own.

But there’s more.

The food here is really great, the accommodation is charming and there is lots to do around here.

If you’re running away from bustling city life, this is the perfect choice.

You can book a guest room in the main lodge, a log cabin or a family cottage depending on occupancy.

All of them come with amenities like AC, TV, mini fridge and high-speed Wi-Fi.

The cabins have a fully equipped kitchen too.

The river is great for water sports but if you want to hang back at the hotel and relax, you can take a dip in their heated swimming pool or check out their tennis courts.

They also have bicycles on the property which is helpful.

And there are some really lovely vintage wine farms nearby.

38. Salishan Coastal Lodge, Gleneden Beach

7760 North Highway 101 Gleneden Beach, OR 97388 (541) 764-3600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

And then we have the Salishan Coastal Lodge in Gleneden Beach.

This one is also for nature lovers who want to get a taste of the Oregon Coastal Range.

It’s on 200 acres of land and gives you a view of the Siletz Bay.

This is a great choice for families and couples who like a little bit of adventure.

There is a ropes course, tennis court, golf course, biking options and nature trails to explore.

But if you want to sit back and relax, there’s indoor swimming and a spa too.

The rooms and suites come with stone and local wood which makes them look unique and helps you unwind.

And if you head to the Provisions Market, you can have a meal at the Attic.

39. Inn at Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City

33105 Cape Kiwanda Dr. Pacific City, OR 97135 (888) 965-7001 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Finally, we have the Inn at Cape Kiwanda, which is in Pacific City.

This is the place for those who want a coastal getaway.

The inn is one of those quick trips to places with a great view of the Pacific Ocean because it’s actually right across the road.

So, no matter the room you pick, there will be a fantastic view.

You can take a romantic walk and watch the sun rise or set.

And if you don’t want to leave your room, you can get the same experience from your balcony.

This is one of those great Oregon vacation ideas that you will want to relive over and over.

Couples and families will love this place also because there are double-jetted tubs in the room.

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

It’s essential to compare the pros and cons of each Oregon destination to ensure you find the perfect fit.

Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, Astoria features an unmatched pier location and luxurious spa amenities.

However, the experience can be pricey for a quick trip.

You’ll be surrounded by beautiful landscaped grounds at The Setting Inn Willamette Valley.

But the limited dining options may be a notable drawback to the experience.

Timberline Lodge’s location on Mount Hood is perfect for an idyllic, healing weekend getaway. 

But the rooms may be too small if you’re traveling with a companion.

If you want to get close to the beach, head to Overleaf Lodge and Spa.

How I Picked The Destinations 

I have been fortunate enough to stay at each destination in my getaways in Oregon.

I have also taken into account feedback from fellow guests and reviews from reputable sites.

With this, I aim to present a reliable review that will assist you in planning a seamless Oregon weekend getaway.

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the best weekend getaways in oregon for couples.

The best weekend getaways in Oregon for couples are Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa and The Setting Inn Willamette Valley.

What Are Weekend Getaways In Oregon For Families?

Some weekend getaways in Oregon for families include Timberline Lodge and Overleaf Lodge and Spa.

Conclusion 

Each of the best weekend getaways in Oregon has its own charm that will make your weekend stay unforgettable.

I still remember the beautiful sunrise view from our room’s balcony when my husband and I stayed at The Setting Inn Willamette Valley.

At Timberline Lodge, my family had a magical Christmas holiday experience.

The lodge’s rustic charm, mountain views, and ski lodge ignited our Christmas spirit.

We stayed at Overleaf Lodge and Spa over the summer and were delighted to stay in an ocean-gazing room.

But Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, Astoria’s location is just incomparable.

Throughout our stay, I was constantly fascinated by the ships passing beneath the Astoria-Megler Bridge and the mesmerizing view of the Columbia River.

• Destinations

25 Best Oregon Weekend Getaways

Hallmark resort & spa cannon beach - 1 hour 30 min from portland, oregon, baywood shores bed & breakfast, oregon, wildspring guest habitat - 4 hours 50 min from portland, silver falls lodge & conference center - 1 hour.

• Complete List & Map

West Coast Vacations: From Seattle , Washington

Weekend Inspiration: NC Getaways , Small Town Getaways , From Toronto , Oklahoma , From Jackson , From Louisville , For Couples

Ideas by Occasion: Relax at a spa , Girls weekend , Birthday , Family , Honeymoon Weekend , All-Inclusive

Ideas in New England: Vermont , Massachusetts , New Jersey , Maryland , New Hampshire , Delaware

The Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast - 5 hours 35 minutes

Weekend Trips: Southwest Weekend Getaways , Arkansas , Idaho , Montana

Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa - 1 hour 50 minutes

Where to travel next: New England Getaways , Wisconsin , Kentucky , Illinois , NJ , Richmond , From NJ

Lithia Springs Resort

California vacations: California Weekend Getaways , Southern California , Northern California , Lake Tahoe , From Los Angeles , From San Francisco , From San Diego

Arch Cape Inn & Retreat - 1 hour 30 min Romantic Getaway from Portland

The South USA Vacations: Mississippi , Georgia , Alabama , Florida , From New Orleans , Louisiana

Timberline Lodge, Oregon - 1 hour 20 min

Texas vacations: From Houston , For Couples , Weekend Getaways in Texas , Texas Hill Country , Family Getaways

Diamond Lake Resort - 4 hours from Portland

More ideas: From DC , Virginia , West Virginia , Maryland , Tennessee , Vermont , Delaware

Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites - Ascend Hotel Collection - 2 hours 30 minutes

Quick trips near Oregon: 21 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in Washington State .

Crater Lake Lodge - 4 hours

1211 Avenue C, White City, Oregon 97503, Phone: 541-594-2255

Morrison's Rogue River Lodge - 3 hours 50 minutes

8500 Galice Road, Merlin, Oregon 97532, Phone: 800-826-1963

The Palm - 4 hours 35 minutes from Portland

1065 Siskiyou Blvd., Ashland, Oregon 97520, Phone: 541-482-2636

Salishan Coastal Lodge, Gleneden Beach

7760 US-101, Gleneden Beach, OR 97388, 541 764 3600

Channel House

35 Ellingson Street, Depoe Bay, Oregon 97341, Phone: 541-765-2140

Inn at Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City

Inn at Cape Kiwanda, 33105 Cape Kiwanda Drive, Pacific City, OR 97135, 888 965 7001

Green Springs Inn & Cabins

11470 Hwy 66, Ashland, Oregon 97520, Phone: 541-890-6435

The Setting Inn Willamette Valley

20300 NE Hwy 240, Newberg , Oregon 97132, Phone: 503-554-9528

Country House Inns

830 N. 5th Street, Jacksonville , OR 97530, Phone: 541-899-2050

Pendleton House

More ideas: Sylvia Beach Hotel

Overleaf Lodge and Spa, Yachats

Overleaf Lodge and Spa, 280 Overleaf Lodge Lane, Yachats, OR 97498, 541 547 4880

Eagle Rock Lodge, Vida

Eagle Rock Lodge, 49498 McKenzie Hwy, Vida, OR 97488, 541 822 3630

More Ideas:

Lincoln city, crater lake national park, valley of the rogue state park, ecola state park, oregon dunes national recreation area.

• 1. Hallmark Resort & Spa Cannon Beach - 1 hour 30 min from Portland, Oregon
• 2. Baywood Shores Bed & Breakfast, Oregon
• 3. WildSpring Guest Habitat - 4 hours 50 min from Portland
• 4. Silver Falls Lodge & Conference Center - 1 hour
• 5. The Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast - 5 hours 35 minutes
• 6. Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa - 1 hour 50 minutes
• 7. Lithia Springs Resort
• 8. Arch Cape Inn & Retreat - 1 hour 30 min Romantic Getaway from Portland
• 9. Timberline Lodge, Oregon - 1 hour 20 min
• 10. Diamond Lake Resort - 4 hours from Portland
• 11. Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites - Ascend Hotel Collection - 2 hours 30 minutes
• 12. Crater Lake Lodge - 4 hours
• 13. Morrison's Rogue River Lodge - 3 hours 50 minutes
• 14. The Palm - 4 hours 35 minutes from Portland
• 15. Salishan Coastal Lodge, Gleneden Beach
• 16. Channel House
• 17. Inn at Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City
• 18. Green Springs Inn & Cabins
• 19. The Setting Inn Willamette Valley
• 20. Country House Inns
• 21. Pendleton House
• 22. Overleaf Lodge and Spa, Yachats
• 23. Eagle Rock Lodge, Vida

Last Updated By VI on May 20, 2024 in Oregon Day Trips & Weekend Getaways

More Oregon Getaways:

Resources: Travel Oregon , Travel Portland , Visit Central Oregon

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How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Road Trip Through Oregon

While unpaved roads and covered wagons are (thankfully) a thing of Oregon Trail past, you’ll still find bucolic wineries, charming stays, and impressive scenery worth the drive. Here’s how to see it all in a weekend.

An avid Italophile, Laura is always on the hunt for the next great travel trends, luxury hotels, best places to eat and drink, and hidden gems. Her writing has appeared in dozens of publications. She also co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars and Restaurants," an award-winning guide to the city's speakeasy scene.

See recent posts by Laura Itzkowitz

Day 1: Portland

MORNING Start your trip in Portland, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dynamic destinations known for its enterprising chefs, local artists, surplus of microbreweries and coffee shops, and laid-back sensibility that extends to its best hotels. The Ace is an obvious choice, though the vibe is more college dorm than chic hotel. For something a bit more grown-up but still fun, stay at the Sentinel . The grand lobby retains details from the building’s historic past, while rooms are done up in tweed and evergreen.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Portland, OR hotels

AFTERNOON After you check in, head to Pine Street Market for lunch—it’s a collection of stalls by up-and-coming chefs and producers as well as some of Portland’s most beloved restaurants. We loved the green falafel pita at Shalom Y’all and salted caramel soft serve at Salt & Straw’s Whiz Bang Bar . Walk or bike your lunch off along the Willamette River, then head a few blocks west to check out the famous Powell’s Books (JS Tip: A tote bag from Powell’s makes a great souvenir) and quirky boutiques like Tender Loving Empire and Woonwinkel . Or visit the International Rose Test Garden , where you might feel like Alice in Wonderland frolicking around the hedges blooming with brilliantly colored and striped roses. The nearby Japanese Garden is worth a stop if you have time.

EVENING For happy hour, book a table at the Multnomah Whiskey Library , a speakeasy that looks like an old-school library except whiskey bottles line the shelves instead of books. The bartenders serve more than their fair share of Old Fashioneds, but if you ask them for a recommendation (and you should), they’ll geek out over obscure whiskey cocktail recipes. While “farm-to-table” may be a buzzword, Portland chefs take it very seriously, and there are so many standout restaurants here that you really can’t go wrong. One of our favorites is  Pok Pok , which truly lives up to the hype with its multi-flavor, Chaing Mai-style dishes and famous chicken wings. If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, head to Pépé Le Moko , the Ace Hotel’s barrel-vaulted underground cocktail lounge for an espresso Martini made with Stumptown coffee.

Photo by Torsten Kjelistrand, Photo by Lincoln Restaurant

Photo courtesy of Jamies Francis and Travel Portland

Photos by Chris Hornbecker

Day 2: The Columbia Gorge and Willamette Valley

MORNING Fuel up in the early hours with Stumptown coffee and a donut. Skip the long lines at Voodoo and head straight to Blue Star Donuts , which makes creative flavors like blueberry bourbon and PB&J. Portlanders love having nature so easily accessible from the city, so do as the locals do and take a detour to see the majestic Columbia Gorge and Multnomah Falls, about 30 minutes east of Portland. A drive along the winding Columbia River Highway takes you passed several other waterfalls, some of which you can hike right up to.

AFTERNOON When you’re ready to vineyard-hop, drive 90 minutes to Carlton, your first stop in the Willamette Valley. Figuring out where to start among the region’s 500 individual wineries can be a bit daunting, but a few stand out from the pack—including Sokol Blosser . Founders Bill Blosser and Susan Sokol Blosser planted their first vines in 1971, and they’re still leaders when it comes to sustainability and organic farming. Stop by to taste their excellent Pinot Noirs and Rieslings in the modern tasting room that looks out over the surrounding valleys. After the wine tasting, you’ll need to fill your stomach. We recommend lunch at The Horse Radish, a casual café that serves great salads and sandwiches on freshly baked bread.

RELATED: 7 Gorgeous Wine Country Hotels Around the World

When you’re ready for another round, head to the Stoller Family Estate in nearby Dundee Hills. Many wineries buy grapes from other vineyards, but not Stoller. In addition to Pinot Noir, they produce Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Syrah using grapes grown on their 373 acres of vineyards. Fun fact: the airy, modern tasting room runs on solar panels and features reclaimed wood from Powell’s bookstore. If you can, snag one of the Adirondack chairs on the patio for sips with a view.

EVENING Check into the award-winning Allison Inn & Spa , the Willamette Valley’s most luxurious hotel. Of course, this is Oregon, so the property isn’t just beautiful; it’s also LEED Gold-certified. Drop off your bags in one of the 85 spacious rooms and unwind with a walk around the sculpture-dotted gardens or a dip in the pool before dinner at the hotel’s restaurant Jory, where chef Sunny Jin (an alum of the French Laundry and El Bulli) whips up mouthwatering seafood and veggies grown in the property’s garden.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Newberg, OR hotels

Photo courtesy of Travel Oregon

Photo by Carolyn Wells Kramer, Photo by Andrea Johnson

Stoller Vineyard by Mike Haverkate

Day 3: The Pacific Coast

MORNING If you haven’t fully explored the Allison yet, you’ll want to spend some time there this morning—perhaps to indulge in a treatment at the renowned spa, work out in the fitness studio, or request a tour of the chef’s garden, which is dotted with rows of hazelnut trees (Oregon is the country’s largest producer of hazelnuts).

AFTERNOON Stop for a quick bite at Red Hills Market in Dundee before hitting the road. You’ll drive about two hours northwest through the Tillamook State Forest before reaching Cannon Beach on the Pacific Coast. The beach is known for its giant Haystack Rock and the quaint shingled houses lining the shore. Don’t expect to swim, though: even in summer, it can be cold, so bring a warm jacket.

RELATED: The Dreamiest Beaches to Hit Up in Fall

EVENING There aren’t a lot of hotels in town, but if you want to stay overnight, the Waves is a good option. What the place lacks in style it makes up for in location—right on the oceanfront just minutes from Cannon Beach village with easy beach access. Otherwise, make your way back to Portland on the US26 for one last night in this wild, wonderful state.

Explore More: See all Cannon Beach hotels

Photos courtesy of The Allison Inn & Spa , Photos courtesy of Travel Oregon

Photos courtesy of Travel Oregon and Christian Heeb

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Oregon (OR) » 15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Oregon

15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Oregon

Along the Western coast of the United States, Oregon attracts a laid-back way of life. The rich nature, gorgeous coastline, and down-to-Earth vibes give Oregon a special kind of character found nowhere else.

Escape with your loved one to the land of peace, tranquility, and serenity when you visit Oregon. You’ll have a chance to embrace the great outdoors and re-center your focus on each other.

Read below for our top 15 picks of romantic weekend getaways in the wonderful state of Oregon.

1. Hallmark Resort & Spa

Family owned and operated for almost 70 years, and right on the beach, this idyllic resort is perfect for a romantic weekend away. The beauty of this Resort & Spa is that between Cannon Beach and Newport Beach, you don’t have to choose. Hallmark’s Resort spans both coastlines for the ultimate beach experience.

If you decide to go the route of Cannon Beach, you and your special someone will be able to explore the largest sea stack on America’s Pacific Coast (Haystack Rock), which garnered the title as a “Most Beautiful Place in the World” by National Geographic.

And if you venture to Newport Beach, you’ll be able to bask in all the glory of a traditional beachfront resort. Gaze out onto your private Pacific backdrop and explore the unique galleries and quaint shops along the water.

Website : http://www.hallmarkinns.com/

2. Sentinel

Dazzle in the royal treatment of the Sentinel Hotel in Portland. Originally built in 1909, the Sentinel remains the city’s most historic boutique hotel. And as evidenced by Conde Nast awarding this destination as the #1 Pacific Northwest Hotel, it’s clear that the Sentinel has only built up its reputation over the last century.

While all guest rooms are bursting with luxury, try the City Terrace suite with your loved one for an extra-romantic getaway. Located on the top floor with a relaxing terrace, outdoor fire pit, and panoramic city view, this suite is the epitome of perfection.

And don’t miss the signature Salt & Straw ice cream. Just say the words and the staff at Sentinel will deliver the gourmet treat right to your room. Try the uniquely delicious flavors of Cookies & Cream with Raspberry Swirl, Honey Lavender, Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper, or Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons.

Website : http://www.sentinelhotel.com/

3. The Bronze Antler Bed & Breakfast

Just as you’d imagine by the name, this getaway is a rustic B&B in the heart of Oregon’s mountainous countryside. This remote town of Joseph, Oregon, is exactly what couples need to unplug, unwind, and reconnect.

Gaze out onto the snow-covered Rocky Mountains from your room. Fall into serenity in the plush bedding and luxe furniture at your fingertips. And outside your bedroom door, a whole world of natural wonder awaits. Head to nearby Wallowa Lake in the summer for swimming, high altitude scuba diving, kayaking, and more.

Website : http://www.bronzeantler.com/

4. Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa

At the Cannery, the majestic beauty of the Columbia River consumes the entire property. This property has been converted from a former fish cannery—600 feet into the water—into the glorious hotel that it is today, beaming with luxurious amenities and breathtaking views.

Take in the river views from your private balcony, where it looks as if you just walk right out onto the water. Snuggle up next to your loved one in front of the gas fireplace or in the oversized clawfoot tub, also with a spectacular river view, right in your own room.

When you bring your special someone to the Cannery, you’ll find unparalleled touches that led TripAdvisor to name the destination one of the “Top 25 Hotels for Romance.”

Website : http://www.cannerypierhotel.com/

A romantic Bed & Breakfast in Oregon’s wine country, Le Puy allures guests with its idyllic setting and fresh environment. In fact, its focus is precisely on providing couples with a romantic retreat.

Come to Le Puy to rebalance yourself and your love life. Sleep in a little, and then dive into a gourmet breakfast, prepared right in the kitchen. With a choice between cheese blintzes with homemade strawberry jam, smoked salmon & egg crepes, vegetable stratas, and more, you’ll see how Le Puy isn’t just any B&B.

After breakfast, go out and enjoy wine country with your loved one. Venture through the beautiful landscape by foot, bike, or even horse. At Le Puy, the romance wafts through the air continuously.

Website : http://www.lepuy-inn.com/

6. Kimpton Riverplace Hotel

Relax in the gorgeous and inviting Kimpton Riverplace Hotel, a downtown Portland oasis that celebrates the great outdoors in purely modern luxury.

As you approach the Kimpton, warm, glowing lanterns and a handmade kayak welcome your arrival. And the tranquility extends all throughout the day. In this Pacific Northwest paradise, you and your special someone can start the day with fresh coffee in the riverside courtyard, and wind it down by toasting s’mores in the fire pit.

Website : http://www.riverplacehotel.com/

7. Timberline Lodge

The Timberline Lodge nestled among the Northern mountains of Oregon is the perfect escape for winter love birds. Built on the south slope of Mt. Hood, the tallest mountain in Oregon, this lodge stands at an astounding 6,000-ft altitude.

Of course when you come to the Timberline, you must come for the slopes. Whether skiing or snowboarding, guests can get the adrenaline pumping through their veins any time of year on this mountain.

And when you’re ready to rest from a day of activity, settle into your European-chalet room featuring fireplaces and luxurious accommodations.

Website : http://www.timberlinelodge.com/lodging/

8. Pendleton House

Off the beaten path in Eastern Oregon, the Pendleton House opens its doors to guests looking for elegant comfort, warm hospitality, and refined accommodations.

Built in 1917, this romantic getaway features architecture and décor reminiscent of the Italian Renaissance to give guests a truly whimsical experience. And after 100 years, the place is in better shape than ever.

Whisk your loved one away to the Pendleton House for a beautiful escape from your routine.

Website : http://www.pendletonhousebnb.com/

9. Channel House

Located right on the coast of Depoe Bay peering over the stunning oceanfront bluff, this escape in the Pacific Northwest is sure to calm your mind, soothe your soul, and reconnect you with your loved one.

Enjoy the comfort of a small, country inn with the luxury of a world-class hotel when you stay at the Channel House. All rooms at this beachfront destination come with an ocean-facing balcony to capture the essence of the Oregon coast on your getaway. And that’s not all; they also all include a hot tub on the balcony so that you can really unwind and soak up the romance during your weekend away.

Website : http://www.channelhouse.com/

10. WildSpring Guest Habitat

Escape into the tranquility of the wilderness at the WildSpring. You and your significant other can cuddle away in your cozy, secluded cabin the woods when you stay here.

Each cabin is built like a small home. With heated floors, vaulted ceilings, luxury bedding, oversized windows, and exquisite bathrooms, this oasis will make you feel like you’ve finally reached heaven.

And you can’t miss the opportunity to soothe your body and soul at the spa on-site. Bask in the open-air slate hot tub overlooking the ocean, as you’re surrounded by 100-ft trees. Sounds like relaxation perfected.

Website : http://www.wildspring.com/cabins.htm

11. Benson Hotel

Explore all that Oregon’s capital city of Portland has to offer at the Benson Hotel. This treasured historic landmark was established in 1913 and blends elegant European design with modern amenities and comforts. When you and your loved one stay at the Benson Hotel, you’re conveniently within walking distance of all the shopping, dining, and entertainment of downtown Portland.

And while you’re here, you can’t miss a trip to the Pearl District, only steps away from the Benson. This neighborhood of Portland used to be dominated by factories, but has now been converted into an exciting place for art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants, pars, and the famous Portland Center Stage.

Website : https://www.coasthotels.com/hotels/oregon/portland/the-benson-hotel/

12. The Chateau at Oregon Caves

During the summer and fall, the Chateau welcomes guests to experience a genuine Oregon getaway. Nestled on a hill, the front of the hotel appears to showcase just two stories of lodging. In reality, the building exposes itself from the side and back, opening up and filling the hill with six stories of rustic charm.

And of course, while you’re at the Chateau, you and your loved one absolutely have to visit the Oregon Caves National Monument. Just steps away from the hotel lies to entrance to this landmark. Explore the wonder of the caves and all the hiking, wildlife viewing, and excitement they have to offer.

Website : http://www.oregoncaveschateau.com/

13. Baywood Shores Bed & Breakfast

Take advantage of coastal chic when you and your sweetheart run away to the Baywood Shores on the Pacific edge of Oregon.

At this cozy B&B, guests have the option between two thematic suites: the Captain’s Quarters and the Cape Cod Room. Each suite boats a king-size bed, two-person Jacuzzi, fireplace, private deck overlooking the ocean, and modern amenities.

Enjoy the relaxing shores and views of the ocean while you’re completely pampered at this home-away-from-home. And in the morning, you and your special someone will be treated to a delicious full breakfast, delivered right to your room.

Website : http://www.baywoodshores.com/

14. Embarcadero Resort Hotel & Marina

Live large at the Embarcadero Resort, where you and your significant other can enjoy the Oregon Coast in style.

Relish the luxurious accommodations with top-of-the-line furnishings and comforts. Gaze out onto the serene water from your private deck, overlooking the Yaquina Bay and Bridge. You’ll also have access to the resort’s premier indoor salt water pool, spa, and sauna.

And what’s more, you don’t even have to leave the premises for world-class cuisine with a mesmerizing backdrop. Right on the water, the Embarcadero invites guests to dine on gourmet dishes at its restaurant, such as succulent grilled steak, fresh fish tacos, and creamy salmon risotto.

Website : http://www.embarcaderoresort.com/

15. Green Springs Inn & Cabins

Calm your mind when you bring your loved one for a romantic weekend in Oregon’s Green Springs. Away from the concrete jungle and buzzing electronics of daily life, the Green Springs offers guests a quiet setting to refresh and renew their spirits.

Escape to this log cabin in the woods where you’ll find comfortable lodging, private outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, and the sweet smell of nature surrounding you. And when you’re feeling calm and relaxed, pamper yourself with delectable meals prepared right on-site.

Website : http://www.greenspringsinn.com/

15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Oregon:

• Hallmark Resort & Spa
• The Bronze Antler Bed & Breakfast
• Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa
• Kimpton Riverplace Hotel
• Timberline Lodge
• Pendleton House
• Channel House
• WildSpring Guest Habitat
• Benson Hotel
• The Chateau at Oregon Caves
• Baywood Shores Bed & Breakfast
• Embarcadero Resort Hotel & Marina
• Green Springs Inn & Cabins

Weekend Wonderland: 8 Stops in Oregon from the Mountains to the Vineyards

The colorful vines lining the hills of J. Wrigley vineyards combat the dark and rainy gloom that embodies Oregon in October. Perched atop one of the larger hills in the Willamette Valley, I have a birds-eye view of the surrounding vineyards and forests from the tasting room’s patio.

During the summer, the area would buzz with tourists and traffic, but today it’s silent. Harvest has come and gone, school is back in session, and the rainy fall weather deters most area oenophiles from venturing out for a day of wine tasting. I have this winery (and seemingly the entire AVA) to myself.

That’s one of the things I love most about Oregon; from Portland, you can drive less than three hours and be among rivers, forests, waterfalls, mountains, vineyards, or coastlines. This accessibility to numerous diverse experiences makes Oregon a weekend warrior’s wonderland.

If you’re looking for some direction, here are eight weekend getaways in Oregon that will make the most of your two days of freedom.

Small in size yet big in adventure, Bend is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Home to 300 miles of single-track mountain biking trails, 22 golf courses, 15 mountains, 30-plus cascade lakes and 300-plus days of sunshine a year to enjoy the vast outdoor offerings, Bend is a natural playground for families and adventure travelers. Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding (at nearby Mount Bachelor) in the winter, or world-class river activities (on the mighty Deschutes River) in the summer months.

After exploring Bend’s nirvana of nature, enjoy some refreshments at one of Bend’s 25-plus craft breweries (or, if you really love beer, taste your way along the Bend Ale Trail). Boasting more breweries per capita than any other city in Oregon, Bend is a bucket-list destination for beer lovers. If you’re visiting, don’t miss the Crux Fermentation Project (great ambiance whether inside or outside), Boneyard Brewery (let the staff indulge you with the backstory), and Deschutes (the brewery that started it all).

End your day with dinner at McMenamins Old St. Francis School (who also brew their own fantastic beer). Known for their atmosphere and sense of community, McMenamins’ restaurants have been a neighborhood gathering spot throughout Oregon and Washington since 1983. Each McMenamins pub is themed to match the neighborhood in which it resides. For instance, Bend’s Old St. Francis School pub serves up Northwest fare (think salmon fillet, truffle fries, and local grass-fed steak and burgers) inside a converted 1936 Catholic school-house with eclectic decor that pays homage to the history of the school and the surrounding community.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Bend

Where to stay in bend.

The Oxford Hotel is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Bend, Oregon. That means you’re walking distance to some of the best breweries in the region, so drink up!

Oxford Hotel Bend

Columbia river gorge.

On September 3rd, 2017, Oregonians everywhere watched in horror, despair, and anger as a fire ravaged one of the nation’s most beautiful scenic areas: the Columbia River Gorge. By the end of that Labor Day weekend, the fire claimed 48,000 acres of the most beloved forest in the state, taking with it some of Oregon’s most popular hiking trails, most beautiful landscapes, and most accessible wilderness.

While the Eagle Creek fire caused significant economic, emotional, and environmental damage, the Gorge as a natural wonder was neither lost nor destroyed. Today there are still numerous outdoor recreation options to explore and trails to trek. Those hoping to spend a weekend chasing waterfalls need only cross the historical “Bridge of the Gods” to find beautifully intact hiking trails that boast vista views and waterfalls. Some waterfall hikes that weren’t affected by the fire include Cape Horn Loop, Hamilton Mountain Loop, Panther Creek Falls Hike, and Falls Creek Falls Loop.

The Columbia Gorge is also home to 50-plus vineyards and a growing number of breweries, making it an ideal destination for a weekend of wine or beer tasting (don’t miss Maryhill Winery & Amphitheater). After a day of tasting or trekking around the Gorge, head to Hood River for some farm-fresh dining at Celilo Restaurant and Bar or enjoy a romantic fireside dinner at Multnomah Falls Lodge (located at the base of the famous 620-foot namesake waterfall).

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Hood River

Where to stay in the columbia river gorge.

The Columbia Gorge Hotel is surrounded by beautiful grounds and scenic views complemented by a rich history and friendly staff.

Columbia Gorge Hotel

Crater lake.

For nature enthusiasts, Oregon’s only national park is an awe-inspiring weekend getaway destination that attracts nearly one million visitors each year. Located in a remote area of Southern Oregon, what Crater Lake National Park lacks in amenities it makes up for in beauty. Though park-goers can take in the stunning scenery while camping, hiking or picnicking, the park’s rim drive is among the most popular pursuits. This route (self-guided in your own car or guided in a trolley tour) provides gorgeous lake views from various angles and perspectives.

With a depth of 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and arguably the most beautiful. Surrounded by cliffs (some reaching up to 2,000 feet) the lake is fed entirely by rain and snow, the purity of which gives the lake its intense blue color. In fact, scientists consider Crater Lake to be the clearest and cleanest large body of water in the world.

If you’re visiting, consider bringing fishing gear and catching your own dinner. In addition to crystal clear waters and storybook scenery, Crater Lake also boasts an abundance of rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. And, since the lake contains a million salmon (literally), your odds of catching something are favorable. If you opt to leave the salmon fishing to the bears, your dining options become much more limited as there are only three restaurants in the park. That said, the Crater Lake Lodge dining room is a spectacular place to have a meal while enjoying magnificent lake views (just make sure you get a reservation if you are visiting during the summer).

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Crater Lake National Park

Where to stay near crater lake.

Overlooking Crater Lake and surrounded by mountains, the historic Crater Lake Lodge is a beautiful home-base for multi-day visitors to Crater Lake National Park.

Crater Lake Lodge

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Eugene, Oregon? Nike? Probably. Hippies? Maybe. The University of Oregon? Hopefully. However, beneath the town’s celebrated university (go Ducks!) and its famous alums (looking at you, Phil Knight) resides a colorful city crammed with creativity and infused with diversity.

Situated at the junction of Oregon’s Willamette and McKenzie rivers, Eugene may be cumulatively considered a “college town” rooted in the hippie movement and counterculture. However, with a dichotomous mix of arts and culture, sports and outdoors, shopping and dining, and yes, liberal politics and alternative lifestyles, eclectic Eugene is a utopia of arts and adventure (and the activities that naturally follow: eating and drinking).

Like many other cities in Oregon, Eugene is a hotbed for craft breweries. If you love beer, spend some time wandering the Eugene Ale Trail and you may meet your new favorite brew. Ninkasi, ColdFire, and Oakshire are a few can’t-miss breweries in town. For the wine lovers, Eugene also has a great urban wine scene that consists of four-plus winery tasting rooms within a five-mile route between the Whiteaker neighborhood’s fermentation district to the Westside Warehouse district. After tasting your way through town, head down to 6th Street Public Market for a farm-to-table dinner at Marché.

Since a little company called Nike was founded in Eugene, the city has become known as “Tracktown USA” — an epicenter for athletes and repeating host to the U.S. Olympic (track & field) trials. Runners and cyclists love Eugene’s 250 miles of bike and running trails (located right in town), while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking the nearby Spencer’s Butte or Mount Pisgah. With Eugene’s abundance of parks, trees, and trails, anyone wanting to spend some time outdoors will love a weekend getaway to this green city.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Eugene

Where to stay in eugene.

The amenities and attention to detail are both top-notch at this charming boutique hotel, the Inn at the 5th .

Inn At The 5Th

The Oregon Coast has a rugged, wild beauty that’s unlike any other beach in the nation. Although numerous lovely beach towns fringe Oregon’s 363 miles of coastline, Florence is a local favorite. Situated between the Siuslaw River and miles of sand dunes, Florence, Oregon offers a great getaway for both adventure seekers and relaxation retreaters.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Florence for its ample amount of outdoor recreation options. Home to the largest expanse of coastal dunes in the country, adrenaline chasers can bring an ATV, rent a quad or join a Dune Buggy tour to cruise this stretch of sand stacks at a dizzying pace.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something slightly slower and less adrenaline-inducing, you can ride horses on the beach (with C&M Stables) or take a hike on the scenic trails that surround the historic Heceta Head Lighthouse. The nearby Sea Lion Cave — touted as the largest sea cave in America — is also a favorite among visitors, especially those with their family.

After a day of exploring, head to Old Town for dinner along Florence’s historic waterfront. Plan ahead and make dinner reservations at the Waterfront Depot. Located inside an old train depot, the restaurant serves up creative dishes and beautiful river views.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Florence

Where to stay in florence.

Driftwood Shores Resorts is an oceanfront hotel that offers stunning views and easy beach access.

Driftwood Shores Resort And Conference Center

Located 50 miles east of Portland, Mount Hood’s postcard-perfect peak is a dominant point on the city’s skyline and the muse of local photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. On a clear day, the snow-capped summit (visible all the way to the Columbia River plateau) beckons adventure seekers to explore its glaciers, forests, and rivers. With year-round opportunities for snow sports (thanks to the aforementioned glaciers) and scenic summer activities (climbing, hiking, camping, kayaking), Mount Hood is an outdoor playground for weekend warriors of all stripes.

Though several small resort towns encircle the mountain, Government Camp (or “Govy”) is among the most popular. Despite being the gateway to several world-class ski resorts, Government Camp — unlike its Canadian (Whistler) and Californian (Mammoth) counterparts — propagates little pretension, but rather provides a warm welcome, and vast après ski offerings to visitors. Ram’s Head Bar, Mt. Hood Brewing Co. and Double Mountain Brewery are all great options for taking a load off, post-ski.

If you’re passing through Government Camp on your way to or from Mount Hood, stop for a hearty meal at the cafe in the iconic Huckleberry Inn. The Inn’s throwback 24/7 diner has been serving up Huckleberry pancakes, shakes and pie (among other diner staples) since 1966.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Government Camp

Where to stay near mount hood.

At just one mile from the Mount Hood Ski Bowl, you can’t beat this location. Plus, Collins Lake Resort features the perfect combination of luxury and charm to satisfy any traveler.

Collins Lake Resort

Ah, Portland, a city renowned for rain, beverages, bridges, and hipsters (thanks in part to the hit show Portlandia) is a tapestry of food, wine, beer, culture, art, and outdoor experiences, all woven into one energetic — albeit “weird” — city. Portland, Oregon is a confluence of chaos and creativity, a city as diverse as the people who inhabit it.

In its beautiful mélange, it caters to various types of visitors. Foodie? Portland has one of the best culinary scenes in the country. Craft beer connoisseur? Portland has been called the craft beer capital of the USA. Wine? We’ve got that too. Art? Culture? Outdoors? Yep, Yep and Yep. But I digress.

First things first: brunch. Brunch is something of a religion in Portland, and the city’s breakfast establishments make it an art. If patience is your virtue, Tasty & Alder is renowned for its unique brunch offerings and their innovative dishes are worth the inevitable wait. However, if you’re looking for something on the sweeter side, Voodoo Doughnuts boasts decidedly delicious doughnuts that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

From Voodoo Doughnuts, you can walk across the street to the Portland Saturday Market (the largest continually operated outdoor market in the U.S.) or stroll along the beautiful Portland Waterfront. If you’re visiting during the summer months, there’s a revolving door of events that take place nearly every weekend (many at Tom McCall Waterfront Park), so be sure to do your research and avoid missing out on some of Portland’s most famed festivals (like the annual Oregon Brewers Festival, Portland Rose Festival, or Waterfront Blues festival—to name a few).

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Portland

Where to stay in portland.

When President Obama visited Portland, he stayed at the Hotel Monaco . If it’s good enough for the Commander-in-Chief, it’s good enough for you.

The Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown

Willamette valley.

Known as one of the premier Pinot Noir producing areas in the world, the 150-mile-long Willamette Valley is home to more than 500 wineries. If you like wine (especially pinot), you’ll love spending a weekend in Oregon wine country.

In the Willamette Valley, handcrafted wine takes precedence over corporate, mass-produced labels. Here, large vineyards are complemented by boutique, family-owned wineries and the passion required to succeed in a challenging, cool-climate growing region is evident in every person you encounter and wine you taste.

Boasting beautiful views and great indoor and outdoor wine tasting establishments, Willamette Valley wineries are a year-round destination. The Yamhill-Carlton AVA & Dundee Hills are among the most popular tasting regions due to their close proximity to Portland. If you’re visiting Yamhill-Carlton AVA don’t miss WillaKenzie Estate, Anne Amie Vineyards, Elk Cove Vineyards, Soléna Estate, and Soter. If you go the Dundee Hills route, don’t miss Durant Vineyards, White Rose Estate, Domaine Drouhin, and Domaine Serene.

After a day of wine tasting, indulge in an amazing dinner at the famed Joel Palmer House. Established in 1997 by James Beard award-winning author Jack Czarnecki, the Joel Palmer house restaurant is located inside a historic 1859 farmhouse that was owned by a famous Oregonian by the name of — you guessed it — Joel Palmer. The menu revolves around wild mushrooms and truffles (which they gather themselves) and features seasonal, local cuisine complemented by craft cocktails and an impressive wine list. Pro tip: Try the wild mushroom risotto (even if you don’t like mushrooms, trust me on this one.)

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Newberg

Where to stay in the willamette valley.

Looking for a five-star hotel to match the beauty of the Willamette Valley? Try The Allison Inn & Spa , this luxury accommodation in the heart of Oregon wine country.

Hotel The Allison Inn & Spa

Feature image courtesy of Travel Oregon

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3 Days in Portland, Oregon: The Perfect Portland Weekend Itinerary

last Updated: September 28, 2022 oregon portland

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

So you’re headed to the Pacific Northwest and have 3 days in Portland?! Great choice! I’ve got the perfect 3 day Portland itinerary for you – including the best food, views, and some great nature spots outside the city!  

Portland, Oregon is best known for its delectable donuts, snobby coffee culture, orgasmic food, and, of course, for being weird. It is their slogan after all! 3 days in Portland will give you enough time to see all the city highlights, as well as get you outta town for some much needed nature breaks!

I’ve visited more than half the states in the US , but before last year, I had never made it to Oregon! Living in NYC on the East Coast for most of my life, Oregon and the PNW in general hardly crossed my mind. But once I moved to sunny California , I became instantly enamoured with those states just to the north of me. I quickly visited Seattle and Mt. Rainier , but it took me almost 4 years to make it to Oregon! Shame on me!

So when my old coworker (and friend) invited me to spend 3 days in Portland at her place, I just couldn’t say no. We were LONG overdue for a proper catch up anyways. And plus, I could already taste the donuts and coffee I’ve heard so much about. Spoiler alert – they did not disappoint.

If you’re thinking about spending a long weekend in Portland, I highly encourage it. I’m already figuring out the next time I can get myself back to PDX.

Portland Itinerary Logistics

How to get around.

If you’ll just be staying around Portland proper, then you can get away with public transportation (buses, MAX light rail, streetcars, and commuter rail) and the occasional Uber or Lyft. The city also has a few bike share programs (including Biketown which has 100 stations across the city) if pedaling around town is more your thing.  

However, if you’ll be following my itinerary and making a few (highly) recommended day trips, you’ll want to rent a car for your three days in Portland. Note that most parking within the city is metered, although we never paid more than a few bucks per day.

Where to Stay in Portland

If you want to explore the more touristy parts of the city (where most of the items on this Portland itinerary are located, minus the day trips of course), you’ll want to stay on the West side of the Willamette River, which divides the city in half. Downtown, the Pearl District, and Nob Hill are your best bets over on the west side.

Downtown : Stay here if you don’t have a car, it’s your first time visiting Portland, and/or want to do a ton of (tax-free) shopping. Plus, there’s tons of food carts and farmers markets here. // Recommended hotels: Kimpton Hotel Monaco (enchanted forest vibes), Sentinel Hotel (5 star property with easy access to the street car), Kimpton Riverplace Hotel (modern riverside), and The Paramount Hotel (super stylish and well-priced).

Pearl District : A super easy walk to downtown, and absolutely lovely! It’s rather upscale and trendy, with tons of galleries and boutiques. Plus, the Pearl District is home to Powell’s City of Books – what can be better? // Recommended hotels: Mark Spencer Hotel (classy Portland), McMenamins Crystal Hotel (quirky Portland), and Residence Inn by Marriott (kitchenettes, anyone?!)

Nob Hill : Sometimes referred to as the Alphabet District, Nob Hill has a more small-town feel to it with lots of charming victorian architecture, although is still in a central location. 

When to Visit Portland:

Yes, it’s the PNW, and yes, it can be rainy many months of the year. Thankfully, despite all the rain, the air typically doesn’t get cold enough for snow, so you most likely won’t need to bust out your winter gear.

With that being said, if you’re hoping for sunny days (like most), come during July and August, which is undoubtedly the city’s busiest time of year. Because of this, a mid-week visit would highly be to your advantage, as restaurants get packed and traffic can be somewhat unbearable depending on where you’re going.

For the sake of transparency, I visited in mid-June from a Tuesday night to early Saturday (for a total of 3 full days in Portland), and we got lucky with both minimal wait time for food and traffic. The days are long in summer (with the sun setting around 9pm), giving you ample daylight for day trips and Portland adventures.

I highly advise that you plan your days around the weather. I visited in mid-June, and during my 3 days in Portland, I experienced 90+F temps, as well as a tad bit of rain, some chilly mornings, and warm summer nights. The weather here is tempermental to say the least (and changes throughout the day), so be aware when planning your activities for the day. It’s best to come prepared with an umbrella and cute rain jacket any time of year, juuuuuust in case – this is the PNW afterall!

A note on food & eating and drinking in general

One of the big draws of the city is all it’s eating (and drinking – the beer and coffee kind), so you’ll be finding a lot of that on this 3-day Portland itinerary (#noshame). Vegans will have no problem finding food here as there are tons of vegan options on almost every menu in the city. PSA: Portland is not the place to visit if you’re on a strict diet – heck, donuts, ice cream, and coffee concoctions are big around here!

Just know you most definitely won’t be able to get to allllll the Portland foodie hot spots in one trip – I already have a long list for next time! The city is constantly adding new restaurants to it’s (already long) line-up, so you can be sure you’ll eat well on any 3 day trip to Portland! Just whatever you do, get a few Blue Star donuts – they’re worth the calories (promise).

And up next, what you’ve been waiting for, my exact 3 days in Portland itinerary:

3 Day Portland Itinerary

Day 1: cannon beach + first stops in portland.

For the beginning of your 3 days in Portland, head to the beach! The coast is absolutely beautiful and as soon as you get there, you’ll be glad you included it on your Portland itinerary!

Check out Lionheart Coffee Company , located a few minutes outta town, for some coffee to go before heading to the beach. Get the cold brew – it’s infused with cocoa nibs and ridiculously delicious.

Cannon Beach

Start your Oregon adventures by making your way to Cannon Beach, about an hour and a half drive east from the city of Portland. Heading to the Coast provided much needed relief from the heat, as it was in the 90s when I visited! Here at Cannon Beach, you’ll find the famous and ever-so-popular Haystack Rock (it’s a sight to be seen).

No matter where you stand, you’ll see it (I promise), as it towers 235 feet over the beach. If you can, plan your visit during low tide so you’re able to walk right up to Haystack Rock to search for sea creatures (crabs, sea anemone, mussels, and snails). Check here to see when the tide is at its lowest. Check out Pelican Brewing Company should you get hungry (the fish tacos were bomb), then make your way back to the city to continue your Portland itinerary.

Don’t have a rental car? No problem. You’ll find a few companies offering tours to Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, along with additional scenic spots on the coast including Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, Neahkahnie Point, and Manzanita (on my list for next time). Check it out and sign up here!  Just note that these tours are usually more of a full day, so you’ll need to add the following activities elsewhere on your Portland itinerary.

Back in Portland:

Depending on how long you spend at the beach and your hunger level, I URGE you to head on over to Pok Pok for at least a snack of vietnamese fish sauce wings. One bite and you’ll understand why. Note that this place gets insanely crowded for dinner most nights, which is why I recommend going for (a late) lunch instead.

Still hungry? You’ll find Salt and Straw across the street for some of Portland’s best ice cream. Try the salted caramel and/or the gooey brownie. Can’t decide? I get it, I’ve been there. Order the ice cream flight (with 4 flavors) – you won’t be disappointed.

Next, check the following off your Portland itinerary:

• Pittock Mansion : Looking for spectacular views of the entire city? You’ll find those here at Pittock Mansion. Note that while the view is free to admire, a ticket is required to tour the mansion grounds.

• International Rose Test Garden (located within Washington Park): What’s better than rows and rows of sweet-smelling roses? The garden boasts over 10,000 of the pretty things, in every color combination imaginable (over 650 varieties)! Wander around for a half hour or so, and be sure to actually stop and smell the roses. :p Make sure you visit when the roses are in bloom (April through October, although June is the peak season). FYI – Entrance to the garden is free, but you’ll need to pay for parking.

• Blue Star Donuts: I know, I know, you may have already had some ice cream, but you REALLY can’t leave Portland without at least tryyyying a blue star donut or two (or three). We split the chocolate almond ganache, real maple bacon, and orange oil olive. Psst: you can always buy a few donuts at the airport before heading home if you didn’t get a chance to visit in the city (I did both, shhh).

Recommended Dinner options: Portland has a WIDE array of restaurant choices, and to say I had no bad meals is an understatement (they all thoroughly exceeded my expectations). Check out either Yama Sushi & Izakaya for some Japanese food or Abyssinian Kitchen for some tasty Ethiopian food – both are a few feet away from Fifty Licks should you be craving more ice cream (no judgements – you’re on vacation!)

Day 2: Multnomah Falls – Columbia River Gorge – Rowena Crest – Mt. Hood

Next up on this three day Portland itinerary: a rather long day trip that will take you to a bunch of northwest Oregon’s best sites! Be sure to start early as the Multnomah area gets jam packed with tourists.

First up, Multnomah Falls!

Being the tallest waterfall in all of Oregon state, this stop really should be any Portland itinerary, no matter how long or short. Looking up at the 600+ foot tall roaring cascade of icy water is awe-inspiring to say the least!

Because of the horrific fire in 2017, Multnomah Falls can only be seen from the lower viewing platform, and it’s unfortunately not possible to hike to the upper platform (bridge) at this time. Still worth visiting? I think so. Check for other trail closures before planning more waterfall hikes into your Portland itinerary as most are closed on the Oregon side (I’ve heard Horsetail Falls and Wahkeena Falls are spectacular – but both were closed during my June 2018 visit).

Like I said before, Multnomah Falls get absolutely crazy-busy, so it’s best to come as early as you possibly can! It’s actually the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest (whoa), so be prepared to share the views with 34534 of your closest Portland-loving friends if you come after 10am. 🙂

Rowena Crest

It’s about 25 minutes out of the way, but most definitely worth it for that insta picture (I’m sure you’ve seen it somewhere – haha)! So what is it about this place that makes it rather popular?! Yes, it’s technically just a bend in the road but the surrounding scenery makes it a worthwhile stop.

This iconic horseshoe curve is actually one of the most photographed roads in all of Oregon! It does get pretty windy up here, so if you’re planning on taking that insta-photo, please be extra careful! Note that you’ll need to hoist yourself up and over the railing if you want more than just shoes in your shot (I was too much of a chicken to do so).

Solstice Wood Fire Cafe : By this time you’re probably hungry/hangry, and no better place to calm those pains than at Solstice for some wood-fired pizza. There’s a heated patio if you prefer to sit outside. Walk along the Hood River Waterfront for some great views of the area as well!

Basik Acai Cafe : Not necessarily an Oregon thing to do, but just putting it out there that Hood River has a fantastic place to get acai bowls (there’s even a location in SF and Hawaii). I’m a huge acai lover, so naturally, had to stop here to stuff down an acai bowl (yes, right after pizza, I know, I know).

Hood River Lavender Farm

A must-stop for anyone who’s even a little bit lavender obsessed. Not only can you wander around the whole place smelling the sweet smells, but for $5, you can pick your own lavender to tie up and bring home! The place was smaller than I had expected, but there’s tons and tons of lavender bushes so it doesn’t even matter. Be extra careful when picking, as there’s lots of bees!

Be sure to look inside the gift shop for lavender jams/jellies, soaps, etc. If you come on a clear day you can even see Mt. Hood in the distance! FYI: Lavender picking season is from April/May to November, with peak bloom being July-August.

Trillium Lake

What’s better than a mountain reflection in a jazzy blue lake? Not much! On a clear day, you’ll find Mt. Hood perfectly reflected in the water. Worth the short photo stop for sure! You can also walk around the lake for additional views as well, but we wanted to make it back by dinner so skipped the almost-2-mile loop trail. I want to visit during sunrise or sunset next time!

Timberline Lodge

End this long day at Timberline, a mountain lodge right at the base of Mt. Hood, where you can watch the skiers summer ski and grab a bite to eat (if you’re so inclined). You of course can spend the night here if you’re planning on actually using the mountain for skiing or snowboarding (be sure to make reservations in advance), but we were just observers for the day.

Again, if car rentals ain’t your thing or you just want someone else to do the driving, check out the following half and full day tours to Multnomah Falls and Mt. Hood, with many of the stops I recommended above.

• Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Half Day Tour
• Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Half Day Tour
• Full Day Wine and Waterfalls Tour
• Mt. Hood: Full Day Loop Tour from Portland

Recommended dinner option: Katchka (russian) // For Dessert: Petunia’s Pies & Pastries (all 100% vegan!)

Day 3: More Waterfalls + More Portland

Get ready for another early day, because you’ll be admiring more waterfalls and then ticking more things off your Portland itinerary! To give you an idea of timing, I think we made it to breakfast around 8:30ish or so.

Start with an early breakfast at Pine State Biscuits

I went for the Reggie Deluxe sans gravy, and lemme just tell you – the fried chicken did not disappoint, nor did the biscuit. Highly recommend this place. Vegetarians will appreciate the fact that mushroom gravy is available. The line can get ridiculously long (for good reason, the biscuits are outta this world), so MAKE SURE to get here early, especially if you want ample time for the rest of the day’s activities. 🙂

Short hike at Silver Falls State Park

If the waterfall at Multnomah wasn’t enough for you, or you’re just a waterfall fanatic like myself, make the hour and a half drive to Silver Falls State Park. (Psst – I actually found the waterfall at Silver Falls State Park even more spectacular). There are numerous trails available, with the easiest of them leading to the most impressive waterfall in the park – South Falls. You can even go behind some of them! Definitely reminded me of the some of the waterfalls I saw in Iceland!

If you’re looking for a longer hike, trek the entire 9 miles and you’ll be rewarded with 10 waterfalls (yes, 10!). Where else can you see 10 waterfalls on one hike?! We hiked about 3 miles or so and saw two waterfalls.

People actually call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system – you’ll quickly understand why after your first visit! I mean, who doesn’t appreciate a leisurely walk the rainforest (Oregon’s only one actually!)

Food Cart Lunch

Back to the city it is, for more food of course! Time to check out one of Portland’s food cart hot spots, this one with Fried Egg, I’m in Love and Tov Coffee (two of my new found favorites). Although there are waaaaay larger food truck areas, I really wanted to try out Fried Egg, I’m in Love, and yes, partially because I am a true egg lover.

Powell’s City of Books

Book lovers, rejoice! You can easily spend HOURS exploring Powell’s flagship store – you’ll even need a map (which they happily supply). Be warned: this place is HUGE huge (like, multiple floors with rooms opening into rooms opening into rooms, etc etc). It actually takes up an entire city block and then some. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, you’re just not looking hard enough – they have EVERYTHING imaginable and then some (new, used, rare, and even out-of-print books).

Ace Hotel Portland

A block away from Powell’s you’ll find the Ace Hotel, a super aesthetic and super hipster hotel located within the heart of downtown. Not only is it super photogenic, but the hotel is famous for its restored vintage photobooth in the lobby, which invites visitors to use (for $5). Next time for me!

This is also a good time to try some Stumptown Coffee , as there’s a location within the Ace.

Voodoo Donut

Voodoo is known for their super unconventional donuts, eclectic decor (one look inside and you’ll see what I mean), and their pretty pink boxes. A few of their specialties include: cock and balls doughnut with cream filled “balls” (my friend had this one), bacon maple bar (with actual strips of meat), and the old dirty bastard (looks better than it sounds).

Okay, so everyone says Blue Star is better, but I actually really enjoyed my donut at Voodoo (the Voodoo doll with raspberry jelly)! Or maybe I just like all donuts?

Go to the original location at 22 SW 3rd Avenue, just south of the Burnside Bridge, if you want to see the Keep Portland Weird sign below.  Keep in mind it’s CASH ONLY, which is probably a good thing so you don’t overly over-do it.

Keep Portland Weird Sign

Right across from Voodoo Donuts you’ll find this quick photo spot. Don’t miss this iconic mural! The sign itself is just a wall in a parking lot, but just go, be weird, and take your picture. 🙂

The actual address is 350 W Burnside St in case you can’t find it (it’s right behind Dante’s).

Tillikum Crossing

Have more time and looking for a scenic leisurely walk over the river? Head to Tillikum Crossing, also known as the “bridge of the people”, a .35 mile pedestrian, bike, and light rail bridge with unparalleled views of the Willamette River. Smart, right? Why don’t more cities have this (bridges that ban cars that is)?

You can easily do this walk back and forth in under an hour. I reckon it’d be even more dramatic and scenic at night with all the city lights shining down on the river! Be sure to look out for the submarine near OSMI!

EXTRAS: Have an extra day or so?! Something on the above Portland itinerary not really you’re thang? I’ve got a few more ideas up my sleeve for you, don’t you worry my friend.

• Beacon Rock
• Lan Su Chinese Gardens
• Japanese Gardens
• Portland Aerial tram
• Mill Ends Park: the world’s smallest park

Are you visiting Oregon soon?! Which things on this Portland itinerary will you be checking off your Portland bucket list? Do you think 3 days in Portland will be enough to eat alllll food and see allll the waterfalls?

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April 1, 2022 at 10:47 pm

This could NEVER be accomplished in 3 days . Misleading- not about Portland, but about day trips from the city.

April 4, 2022 at 5:20 pm

Hi Cindy, this is actually exactly how I spent my time there, so it’s very much possible! We definitely didn’t have tons of time in each spot and I’d love to revisit! What else in the city would you recommend?

July 28, 2022 at 7:11 pm

Exactly what I wanted. Trillium Lake looks amazing! Will add it to my itinerary.

Still debating on going out of the way to Silver Falls State Park, though..

August 9, 2022 at 4:48 pm

I loved it! You can always do a small section of the park if you don’t have a lot of time. I thought the waterfalls were really impressive, especially the one you can walk behind!

August 9, 2022 at 6:28 pm

3 Days in Portland, Oregon: The Perfect Weekend Portland Itinerary

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in Portland, Oregon, this itinerary is perfect for you! Highlights include visits to the Oregon Zoo, the Portland

March 8, 2023 at 3:54 pm

We are planning a 3 or 4 day trip to fly into Portland in July 2023. We need an itentenary to include as much sightseeing as possible. We would certainly like to do the wine country water falls and Mt Hood if possible. We don’t mind to rent a car. Can you please help us plan this trip. This is my 50th state to tour and I am excited to see what Oregon offers.

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15 Amazing Weekend Trips from Portland Oregon

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Planning a weekend getaway from Portland, Oregon? Here are the best spots to visit.

The Pacific Northwest has endless places to explore, and we love how Portland is in close proximity to the  waterfalls , mountains, wine country, beaches, and more.

If you only have a day, you can check out  15 best day trips from Portland Oregon . You can make any of these into weekend trips as well, but we added destinations with slightly longer drives to this post.

Everyone has 52 weekends a year, so we hope that you’ll take full advantage of them and go explore!

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: December 19, 2023

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• 15 Best Weekend Trips from Portland
• More Weekend Trip Ideas Under 7 Hours
• Map of Portland Weekend Trips
• Best Places to Stay in Portland

Planning Checklist

More resources, 15 popular weekend getaways from portland oregon.

Click the links to get more detailed info on each location.

1. Olympic National Park, Washington →

3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362,  map

Distance:  231 mi / 3 hrs 55 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Hall of Mosses ,  Sol Duc Falls ,  Hoh Rainforest What to Eat:  Hama Hama Oyster Saloon , Kokopelli Grill , 8th Street Ale House Where to Stay: Search Rentals and Hotels in Olympic National Park

With four regions, you can explore the Pacific coast, alpine areas, terminate rainforest, or drier forest all in one park. Check out  the Hall of Mosses  to see some incredible mossy trees or hit the  Hoh Rainforest trail  and explore deeper into the park. Don’t forget to enjoy the coasts! One of our favorite beaches is Second Beach.

Local Tip: The area does get rain frequently so be sure to have a  rain jacket  handy. If you venture outside of the park, you can visit the northwesternmost tip of the lower 48 states at Cape Flattery, or if you’re a fan of twilight, you can visit the town of Forks, which was where the movie was set.

See More: 4 Things to Do in Olympic National Park Washington

2. Florence, Oregon

290 US-101, Florence, OR 97439,  map

Distance:  170 mi / 2 hrs 45 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Sand Master Park ,  Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park, Sea Lion Caves What to Eat:  Waterfront Deport Restaurant , Mari’s Kitchen , The Hukilau Where to Stay: Florence Hotel Deals

Located along the central Oregon coast, the landscape in Florence looks completely different than Astoria and the Northern Coast. The beach has massive 200-foot dunes. If you’re up for some adventure, try sandboarding the dunes! It’s where sandboarding was invented and you can meet the person who invented it!

Local Tip: Nearby, you can check out the sea lion caves, go horseback riding along the beach or  Thor’s Well in Cape Perpetua  just 30 minutes north.

See More: The Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip

3. Painted Hills, John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Oregon →

32651 OR-19, Kimberly, OR 97848,  map

Distance:  229 mi / 4 hrs ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Painted Hills, Clarno Unit, Sheep Rock Unit What to Eat:  Little Pine Cafe, Sidewalk Cafe, Dayville Cafe Where to Stay:  Search Hotels Near Painted Hills

Painted Hills is one of the best weekend trips from Portland, Oregon. It’s one of Oregon’s seven wonders , and a weekend getaway at John Day Fossil Beds feels like exploring another planet. You will see bluish clay, unique formations, and volcanic ash in shades of red, yellow, purple, and green, and don’t forget fossils from creatures that used to inhabit the area. Read our  Complete Painted Hills Guide ,  Photo Diary , and the  Ultimate John Day Fossil Beds National Monument Guide .

See More: Ultimate John Day Fossil Beds National Monument Guide

4. Seattle, Washington →

701 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101,  map

Distance:  174 mi / 2 hrs 40 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Pike Place Market,  Chihuly Glass Sculpture Museum , Gasworks Park What to Eat:  Chuck’s Hop Shop , Biang Biang Noodles , The Pink Door Where to Stay: Search Seattle Hotel Deals

Seattle is one of our favorite weekend trips from Portland. People often forget that Seattle is only a 2.5-hour drive away, which makes it easy to stop even for the day to sightsee. Since there is  plenty to do in the city , we recommend spending a whole weekend.

Local Tip: If you’re into museums, there are over 40 in the area.  Here  are some of the ones we checked out!

See More: Weekend Trip to Seattle – How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days

5. North Umpqua River, Oregon

43.3043738,-123.2308284,  map

Distance:  196 mi / 3 hrs 5 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Toketee Falls, Umpqua Hot Springs, Fly Fishing What to Eat:  True Kitchen + Bar , Brix Grill , Nelli’s Deli & Tap House Where to Stay: Look for Hotels in North Umpqua River

The waters of the North Umpqua River are beautifully turquoise and green. It’s also known for its fly-fishing. There is a 31-mile stretch that is set aside exclusively for the fishers, meaning no kayaks or rafts. If you’re not much of a fisher, there are a ton of waterfalls in the area, big leaf maples (amazing during the Fall), and plenty of trails to explore.

Local Tip: Check out the popular Toketee Falls and the Umpqua Hot Springs! The 108-degree pool is perched at the cliff’s edge to give you an amazing view.

6. Yakima, Washington

101 N Fair Ave, Yakima, WA 98901,  map

Distance:  185 mi / 3 hrs ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Yakima Area Arboretum, Yakima Valley Museum, Treveri Cellars What to Eat:  Bubbles & Co , Cowiche Canyon Kitchen , Joy Garden Korean BBQ Where to Stay: Search Hotel Deals in Yakima

Yakima produces 77% of all hops grown in the United States. It’s an agricultural town but still offers up and coming breweries, restaurants, and there are eight wineries in town. During the summer, people often hike, mountain bike, or go tubing. During the winter, the city is covered in snow.

Craving Asian drinks or snacks? Stop by Bubbles & Co and say hi to our friends, Peter and Stephanie.

Local Tip: On the way from Portland, make a pitstop at the Maryhill Stonehenge. It’s a replica of England’s famous Stonehenge.

7. Woodinville, Washington

148th Ave NE, Woodinville, WA 98072,  map

Distance:  187 mi / 2 hrs 55 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Wineries, Molbak’s Garden + Home, Sammamish River Trail What to Eat:  Vivi Pizzeria , Barking Frog , Tipsy Cow Burger Bar Where to Stay: Woodinville Hotel Deals

This is a favorite day trip for many Seattleites. The Woodinville area has over 100 wineries and tasting rooms. There are also 8 microbreweries, distilleries, and cideries in the area, and 26 restaurants! That’s a lot of food and alcohol!

Local Tip: Pick up a Passport  to get access to over 60+ participating wineries for tastings and special discounts for events throughout the year.

8. Whidbey Island, Washington

11196 WA-525, Clinton, WA 98236,  map

Distance:  205 mi / 3 hrs 40 min – includes a ferry ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, Deception Pass, Cama Beach State Park What to Eat: Seabolt’s Smokehouse ,  Ott & Hunter ,  Oystercatcher Where to Stay: Look for Rentals and Hotels on Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island looks more like a New England beach town rather than the PNW. Enjoy the pebble-covered beaches, walk around the small towns, or enjoy the ocean views. Fort Ebey State Park is a great place to explore the island’s natural beauty and there are a ton of trails to hike.

Local Tip: Coupeville makes the best home base. The central location makes it easy to explore the north and south side of the island, and it’s the second-oldest town in Washington!

See More: 15 Best Day Trips from Seattle Washington

9. Craker Lake National Park, Oregon →

Rim Dr, Crater Lake, OR 97604,  map

Distance:  282 mi / 4 hrs 40 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Rim Drive, Boat Tours, Hiking What to Eat:  Beckie’s Cafe , Prospect Cafe , Diamond Lake Junction Cafe Where to Stay: Search for Rentals and Hotels Near Crater Lake

If you love national parks, this will be one of the best weekend trips from Portland, Oregon. This is Oregon’s only National Park. It is the U.S.’ deepest lake at 1,943 feet and ranks as the ninth deepest lake in the world. It was created when a volcano collapsed into a giant caldera. You can hike around the rim to enjoy the views of the lake or hop in for a cool dip.

During the winter, they have fun snow activities, but it can be hard to access, so check their site for current conditions. The park can get quite crowded in the summer, so book accommodations early. Fall is one of the best times to visit since the snow will be gone and the crowds will have tapered out.

Local Tip: If you love  National Parks , save yourself time and money and pick up  an annual park pass  before you head there!

See More: The Ultimate Guide to Crater Lake National Park

10. North Cascades National Park Complex, Washington →

48.6663472,-121.2689664,  map

Distance:  290 mi / 4 hrs 45 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Cascade Loop Scenic Byway, Diablo Lake, Ross Lake What to Eat:  Birdsview Diner , Mondo , Wake ‘n Bakery Where to Stay: Hotels and Rentals Near North Cascades

The North Cascades National Park Complex is made up of North Cascades national Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. If you’re not much of a hiker, there are plenty of beautiful views and short hikes, or you can gear up and leave civilization for the weekend.

Local Tip: Most hikes don’t open until late summer. Check  their website for current conditions .

See More: 7 Best Things to Do in North Cascades National Park

11. Leavenworth, Washington

940 US-2, Leavenworth, WA 98826,  map

Distance:  288 mi / 4 hrs 25 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Waterfront Park, Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, Icicle Creek What to Eat:  Munchen Haus , Mana Restaurant , Blewett Brewing Where to Stay: Leavenworth Hotel and Rental Deals

This Bavarian-themed town brings in people from all over the PNW. There is lots of shopping and eating for those looking for a lazy afternoon, and it has easy access to a lot of outdoor activities too. We were just here this past weekend to climb, but we already can’t wait to be back.

If you boulder, Leavenworth has some great spots to climb!

Local Tip: For the beer lovers, don’t forget to come back during Oktoberfest or for Christmas when it’s decked out for the holidays.

12. Oregon Caves National Monument, Oregon

19000 Caves Hwy, Cave Junction, OR 97523,  map

Distance:  294 mi / 4 hrs 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Cave Tour, Hiking Trails, Eight Dollar Mountain Botanical Area What to Eat:  Taylor’s Sausage Country Store , Rosie’sInferno Wood Fired Pizza Where to Stay: Search for Lodges and Hotels Near Oregon Caves

Although the caves are the highlight, don’t miss the hiking trails, the Historic District, the scenic drive, and grab a milkshake at the Chateau. You can even hunt wild game.

Local Tip: Winter storms can block the park highway, so if you visit then, be sure to  check the conditions . Otherwise, it is usually mild.

13. Cape Flattery, Washington

48.383117,-124.7231657,  map

Distance:  302 mi / 5 hrs 35 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Cape Flattery, Makah Cultural and Research Center, Shi Shi Beach What to Eat:  Pat’s Place , Calvin’s Crab House , Linda’s Wood Fired Kitchen Where to Stay: Hotels in Cape Flattery

Visit the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States. There are plenty of short hikes to amazing views of the rugged coastline. Explore different pullouts and views while you’re there or spend some time in Olympic National Park.

14. Vancouver, BC Canada →

200 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6C 3L6, Canada,  map

Distance:  317 mi / 5 hrs 5 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Capilano Suspension Bridge , Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park What to Eat:  La Bottega , OYAKO , The Sedgwick Where to Stay: Hotels Deals in Vancouver

It’s really easy to fill a weekend in Vancouver, BC. You can explore the town and eat good food anytime of the year. During the summer, they have  open air night markets  to enjoy. If you’re looking for something a bit more touristy,  the Capilano Suspension Bridge  is a popular spot. We still need to do more exploring in the city and hopefully will put together a 101 bucket list for Vancouver soon!

15. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor →

U.S. 101, Brookings, OR 97415,  map

Distance:  313 mi / 5 hrs 20 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Arch Rock, Thunder Rock Cover, Natural Bridges What to Eat:  Pacific Sushi & Grill , Superfly Martini Bar and Grill , Black Trumpet Bistro Where to Stay: Hotels near Samuel H Boardman

Head to the southwest corner of Oregon to enjoy this unique state park. It runs 12 miles along the coast and is lined with thick forest and a few small beaches. Hike along the steep cliff lines and awe at the off-shore rock formations. The few beaches they have feel secluded and on slower days, it makes you feel like you’ve found a secret spot all to yourself. Check out  our guide to the park here .

Want to do the whole Oregon Coast? Read about our  ultimate Oregon Coast road trip with all the best stops .

See More: The Ultimate Guide to Samuel H. Boardman

More Weekend Trips from Portland Under 7 Hours

• Newberg, OR (20 mi / 35 min /  map )
• Hood River, OR (63 mi / 1 hr 10 min /  map )
• Gearheart, OR (81 mi / 1 hr 25 min /  map )
• Astoria, OR (95 mi / 1 hr 45 min /  map )
• Eugene, OR (109 mi / 1 hr 45 min /  map )
• Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, WA (119 mi / 3 hr 10 min /  map )
• Smith Rock State Park, OR (142 mi / 2 hr 50 min /  map )
• Tacoma, WA (144 mi / 2 hr 15 min /  map )
• Mount Rainier National Park, WA (151 mi / 2 hr 35 min /  map )
• Sisters, OR (152 mi / 3 hr 40 min /  map )
• Bend, OR (175 mi / 3 hr 5 min /  map )
• Wallowa, OR (306 mi / 5 hr 5 min /  map )
• Spokane, WA (352 mi / 5 hrs 35 min /  map )
• Redding, CA (420 mi / 6 hrs 50 min /  map )
• Boise, ID (431 mi / 6 hrs 50 min /  map )

Map of the Best Weekend Trips from Portland Oregon

Best Places to Stay in Portland Oregon

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Portland hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a PNW travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Rand McNally Large Scale Road Atlas
• 60 Hikes within 60 Miles of Portland
• Lonely Planet Pacific Northwest’s Best Trips
• Lonely Planet Washington, Oregon & Pacific Northwest Guide

Which of these are on your radar next? What are the best weekend trips from Portland you’ve taken?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

This Post Has 4 Comments

Some excellent suggestion including Vancouver! :) We love camping down the Oregon Coast, especially Whidbey Island in the summer. Some great additional suggestions!

Thank you, Robert! That’s a great suggestion too! We’re hoping to visit sometime this summer.

I had no idea Portland has access to all these types of areas! Your pictures are gorgeous, as always. Will be planning another trip to the west coast sooner rather than later!

Thank you, Juliette! :) I love that about Portland! I love how the mountains and ocean are all way closer and more accessible in Oregon. I hope you come visit soon!

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11 Excellent Weekend Trips from Portland: A Complete Guide

As you’ll find plastered all over this website, one of the things we love about living in Portland is the fact that, within 90 minutes, you can either be on the beach at the Pacific Ocean, or at the base of the highest peak in Oregon.

What we don’t often say is that when you expand that to 3-4 hours away from Portland, it becomes an even more incredible array of destinations ranging from alpine to coastal to desert, and just about everything in between.

In this guide, we’re going to go through our absolute favorite weekend trips from Portland along with everything you need to know to plan your trip (like what to do, see, eat, and drink – the important stuff!).We’ll start with closer destinations and work our way outwards, expanding the view to places in Washington State that are doable in a weekend.

For each place, we’ll give you our take on what makes that destination special, take you through our favorite things to do and see, and give you a starting point in terms of where to stay. 

Our intention here is that, by the end of this guide, you’ll have discovered a new weekend getaway to start planning, and you’ll have a solid starting point for planning your trip. 

As we experience more places in the Pacific Northwest, we’ll be expanding this guide to include other places that we love.

Sound good? Let’s get into it.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Do You Need a Car for These Weekend Trips from Portland?

Generally, yes, you’re going to need a car to make the most of a weekend trip to the vast majority of the places on this list. There just isn’t a great train or public transit option for most of them. 

If you don’t have a car, your options are limited. Our top recommendation would be to rent a car for the weekend, but that’s going to add to the cost and sometimes, driving sucks. 

If you don’t have a car, and don’t want to rent one, there are a few getaways that are accessible by train. 

They are: 

• Seattle (via Amtrak)
• Mount Hood (via bus)
• Hood River (via bus)

However, it’s important to note for Hood River and Mount Hood that a car is going to allow you to do and see far more than going carless . Less so for Seattle, which has a robust public transit network to get around the city without a car.

Our Favorite Weekend Getaways from Portland: A Complete Guide 

Let’s get straight into the amazing weekend trips we’ve chosen for this guide.

Is this an exhaustive list of every possible place you could go? Absolutely not. Instead, we’ve narrowed it down to 10 places that we love, and think you will too. Rather than giving more destinations, we’ve made the decision to go deeper on the ones we’re including.

 As we explore more of the amazing places to visit in Oregon, we’ll revise this list and add those places (the Painted Hills are next up on our list). 

Matt grew up in Seattle, and has a deep appreciation for Mount Rainier because of its role as the barometer of a nice day in Seattle. Oh, you can see Mount Rainier from the city? It’s a good day!

In many ways, Mount Hood plays the same role for Portland. It’s the reminder that, even if you’re doing something mundane at that particular moment, adventure is out there waiting for you (and it’s just 90 minutes from your front door!). 

If you didn’t already notice based on those first few sentences, Mount Hood is our favorite of the outdoor playgrounds near Portland in every season, and we find ourselves up there at least once in every season. 

In the summer, it’s a dazzling display of wildflowers, alpine lakes, and unobstructed views of Mount Hood’s snowy peak. 

In the winter and early spring, it’s a wonderland of snowy meadows begging for you to strap on a pair of snowshoes and approachable ski resorts. 

What to Do at Mount Hood

We’re going to focus on visiting in the summer, which is our favorite time to visit Hood for more than a day trip to go skiing (Mount Hood Meadows is our favorite ski resort up there, for what it’s worth). 

In the summer, it’s all wildflower meadows, crystal clear lakes, and views of Mount Hood around every bend in the hiking trail. Here are some of our favorite things to do up at Mount Hood, most of which are hikes. 

P.S. For more hikes, head over to read our more in-depth guide to hiking at Mount Hood . 

McNeil Point : Both the best hike at Mount Hood (in our opinion, anyway) and also the hardest outside of the Timberline Trail. This hike starts with one of the best views in the state from Bald Mountain, and continues up to a ridge where you’re so close to the face of Mount Hood that you can almost reach out and touch it. It’s hard, so don’t underestimate the climbing. But we think the payoff is well worth it. 

Tamanawas Falls : A much more relaxing hike than the first one, Tamanawas Falls quickly became one of our favorites after we hiked it for the first time last summer. It’s relatively easy, and the payoff at the end is one of the best waterfalls in Oregon, we think. Two things to know are that it’s on the eastern side of Hood, so it’s a 30 minute drive from Government Camp, and the parking situation can be a nightmare, so get there early. 

Ramona Falls: Another great waterfall hike! This is a relatively straightforward hike through the woods at the base of Mount Hood, except for the unmaintained river crossing, which can be a pain in the summer (and we wouldn’t take our dog, for what it’s worth). If you make it across the river, the reward is a 100 foot tall waterfall that feels as wide as it is tall as it cascades down the rock face above you. It’s a different style of waterfall than most in the Gorge or around Hood, which is fun.

Umbrella and Sahale Falls Loop: Another hike that we discovered last summer that is less crowded and equally beautiful. This hike starts from the parking lot at Mount Hood Meadows, and goes on a little journey past two waterfalls (though you can barely see the second, Sahalie, from the trail – drive here after the hike for a better views) and across the ski slopes that are blooming with wildflowers in the summer. 

Bend absolutely belongs on this list because it offers something a little different than most of the cities on this list so far, but not TOO different. It shares some of the attributes we love about Portland, like a thriving small business-focused scene and world-class wilderness within an hour or so of the city. 

The different piece comes from the landscape. 

Bend sits in the eastern foothills of the Cascades right on the divide between the wetter, greener landscapes of western Oregon, and the high desert of central and eastern Oregon. 

Smith Rock is a great example of the types of landscapes that call the high desert home, with giant rock formations that feel like they belong somewhere in Utah, not within a few hours of Portland.

Overall, we really like Bend, though it has become more expensive and developed over the past several years, losing a part of the small town charm that attracted Portlanders (a portion of whom have moved to Bend at some point recently). 

A weekend trip to Bend, at least for us, should include some kind of hike or bike ride in the morning, beers in the afternoon and evening, and plenty of time soaking up that central Oregon sun in between. 

After spending a week in Bend this past fall, we’ve completely re-written this section to reflect our more recent experiences, when we’ve discovered even more of the area near Bend. 

It’s worth noting that we’ve only ever been to Bend between May and October, so all of our recommendations are centered around outdoor activities that are accessible during that time frame. 

Bend would also make an excellent ski vacation – Matt grew up in Seattle and skied at Mount Bachelor years and years ago now – but we haven’t done it recently and don’t have strong thoughts or opinions on it until we do it ourselves!

What to Do in Bend

Here are some of our favorite things to do, see, eat, and drink in Bend (note that Matt has Celiac Disease, so we don’t do a whole lot of brewery hopping). 

Hike to the Top of Pilot Butte: Pilot Butte is a cinder cone – a concept that you should be familiar with if you live in Portland – right in the middle of Bend. A short hike that circles up the butte brings you to a showstopping view of the surrounding landscape, including great views of the Cascades to the west and a nice compass that tells you what peaks you’re looking at, and how tall they are. It’s exposed, so get an early start and wear sunscreen. It’s a quick, easy hike, and we do it every time we’re in Bend. 

Explore Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway: The Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway heads west out of Bend into Deschutes National Forest, and just about every time we drive this stretch we consider never coming back out of the mountains. There are several excellent hikes out here, including Tumalo Mountain, Green Lakes, and Moraine Lake / the South Sister (all of which make our list of the best hikes near Bend ). Plus, Mount Bachelor and Sparks Lake (one of our favorite photo spots in Oregon – and the header image on our home page).

Visit the Deschutes Historical Museum: It will take you about an hour AT MOST, but I really enjoyed the Deschutes Historical Museum . It’s a hop, skip, and a jump away from Downtown Bend. Their whole mission is to preserve Bend’s history by cataloging documents and putting it together in a way that allows current residents and visitors to learn about the rich and interesting history in Central Oregon. I enjoyed it, and would recommend it for a quick and concise splash of historical context during your trip to Bend. 

Explore Newberry Volcanic National Monument: This was a discovery on our latest trip, and we had no idea it existed until we were planning that weeklong trip and were on the hunt for new things to do and see. Turns out, there’s a volcano about 45 minutes south of Bend with a landscape that looks strikingly similar to the one near Crater Lake (which is less than an hour south). It’s worth hiking (or driving) to the top of Paulina Peak (here are the hike details ) for panoramic views of the lake and lava flow, walking out to Paulina Falls, and walking along the lakeshore. Plus, on your way there or back, stop by the Trail of the Molten Land to meander through a volcanic landscape to the top of a cinder cone. 

Day Trip to Smith Rock State Park: Smith Rock is classic Central Oregon for us. It looks like it belongs somewhere in Utah or the Southwest, with towering orange rock formations rising above a drier, flatter landscape. But from the top of Misery Ridge, it has excellent views of the snowy peaks of the Cascades that are a Pacific Northwest Classic. The main highlight for us here is the Misery Ridge Trail, which is an aptly named tough hike that climbs straight up a gully to reach the top of Misery Ridge. From there, you have great views of Monkey Face – one of the premier climbing destinations in Oregon – along with the aforementioned mountain views. To get back, you can either follow the shorter, easier River Trail, or embark on a longer journey on the Summit Trail, which has great views of the park but is longer and more exposed. 

Eating and Drinking in Bend: This section has to start with an important caveat. Matt has Celiac Disease, which means he can’t really partake in most of the food and beer that makes Bend a great place for a weekend trip. However, we have been to Bend with friends and have been to a bunch of breweries over those trips. 

• In terms of beer , we really like Crux Fermentation Project and their outdoor space (soak up that central Oregon sun!). Other good options are 10 Barrel and Bend Brewing (right on the river!), along with trivia at Silver Moon on Thursday nights (which was Oregon-themed last time we were there). 
• For cider , head up to Tumalo and experience the 1-2 punch of Bend Cider and Tumalo Cider , which are around the corner from each other. 
• For food , we like Spork (fusion) and El Sancho (tacos!). 
• For coffee , go to Lone Pine Roasters in Downtown Bend, or Still Vibrato west of the river. 

Hood River is Portland’s other adventure destination (assuming the first is Mount Hood). Hood River sits at the border between the wetter, cooler Cascades and the warmer, drier high desert of eastern Oregon.

It’s world-renowned for its water sports – particularly windsurfing thanks to the wind whipping through the Gorge – and is a lovely little town with plenty of breweries and wineries. 

In addition to being a nice place to spend a weekend, Hood River’s central location means you’ve got great access to the waterfalls and other hikes in the Columbia River Gorge , the eastern flank of Mount Hood (where you’ll find great hikes in the summer, and great skiing in the winter at Mount Hood Meadows), and more. 

Hood River makes for both an excellent day trip from Portland , but we’ve also done a couple of weekend stays out there over the past couple of years and it allows for a little more time to enjoy the warmer, drier weather, outdoor activities, and the Hood River Valley. 

What to Do in Hood River

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Hood River, in no particular order. 

Drive the Fruit Loop: The Hood River Valley, which sits directly south of Hood River at the base of Mount Hood, is one of the most fertile areas in all of Oregon. You’re sure to notice all the apples, pears, cherries, and stone fruits growing if you’re visiting in the summer. Combined with the excellent views of Mount Hood and Mount Adams from various points in the valley, this is a great way to spend half a day or so. Head south out of town and head to Panorama Point ( here on Google Maps), a great sunrise / sunset spot with a nice view of Mount Hood across the valley. Then continue south to Draper Girls , a farm with u-pick fruit in the summer (cherries are sometime in August, depending on the year). On your way back, hit the Gorge White House , which is a fun place to get out, walk through the fruit trees, and enjoy a warm day on their patio.

Wine Tasting near Hood River: While it’s not as prestigious as the Willamette Valley, the area around Hood River is a productive wine region. Despite their proximity to one another, the wines out here are different thanks to the different climate and higher elevations (particularly on the Washington side of the Gorge). We love driving over to the Washington side, where you’ll find Loop de Loop Wines (our favorite tasting experience in the Gorge) and Le Doubblé Troubblé , which is right in the town of White Salmon. There are quite a few other wineries on either side of the river, including a couple of spots in the town of Hood River itself. While it’s not a winery, we really enjoy Hood River Common House , a bar with a great wine, beer, and cider selection right in the middle of all the action in Hood River.  

Hiking near Hood River: There are a bunch of great hikes near Hood River , and basing yourself this far east in the Gorge means you’ll be closer to some of the hiking trails that are slightly further from Portland. We’re partial to Coyote Wall , which has amazing displays of wildflowers in the spring and early summer. Tamanawas Falls is another great hike up towards Mount Hood that we really enjoy. The last hike we’d recommend, which is a little further out but is worth the drive, is the Sleeping Beauty Trail . From the top of a steep ascent, you’ll be atop a rocky outcropping with an unobstructed view of Mount Adams and more distant views of other nearby peaks. 

Rowena Crest & Tom McCall Preserve: Drive 20 minutes east along the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge, most of it along the Historic Columbia River Highway, and you’ll find yourself in a very different landscape than the one closer to Portland. This section of the Gorge gets warmer, drier, and features far fewer waterfalls and far more rattlesnakes. The best stops to make along the way are Memaloose Hills , especially in May and June for the incredible display of wildflowers, Rowena Crest, where you’ll have a great view of a picture-perfect bend in the road, and Tom McCall Preserve, where the hike to McCall Point takes you onto the plateau perched above the Gorge. 

The Three Capes (Tillamook, Cape Kiwanda, and Cape Lookout)

The Three Capes Scenic Route is a coastal drive that takes you from Cape Meares, where you’ll find a cute little lighthouse (and we do mean little), down through Cape Lookout, which juts out into the ocean with great views up and down the coast, and down to Cape Kiwanda, a wide, sandy beach packed with surfers. 

This is one of our favorite stretches of the Oregon Coast, with some great hikes, wide sandy beaches, and, of course, the very scenic capes that the route is named after.

There are plenty of things to do and see on this 24 mile stretch of coast to fill a weekend trip, though most people do it as a day trip from Portland or as part of their Oregon Coast road trip . 

For the purposes of this guide, we’re talking about the combination of Tillamook and the Three Capes Scenic Route, which is a lovely drive from Cape Meares down past Cape Lookout, ending at Cape Kiwanda. 

What to Do Near the Three Capes Scenic Route

Here are our favorite things to do, see, eat, and drink near Tillamook and along the Three Capes Scenic Route. 

Tillamook Cheese Factory: If you live in Portland, you are almost certainly familiar with Tillamook cheese and/or ice cream, which is synonymous with the Pacific Northwest at this point. Their factory in Tillamook is a really fun pit stop, where you can learn about the cheesemaking process and, more importantly, buy and try their cheese and get a scoop of their ice cream (Alysha’s favorite is the chocolate peanut butter, with those thick ribbons of peanut butter). They make cheese curds that are both delicious and also only sold at the factory, so stock up!

Cape Meares: The furthest north of the Three Capes, this one is known for its small lighthouse (the smallest on the coast!). It’s also worth doing the short walk up to the Octopus Tree, and the view out over the coast nearby. 

Cape Lookout: Our favorite of the three, the two main draws at Cape Lookout are the hike out on the cape, which is relatively easy and takes you out to the point where you can hear the sea lions frolicking on the rocks below, and the beach near the campground. 

Cape Kiwanda: This is probably the most famous surfing spot on the northern Oregon Coast, and in the early morning you’ll find the waters full of surfers getting their fix in. The thing to do here is to hike up onto the sandy bluffs on the north side of the bay for great views back over Cape Kiwanda and also out to the north. 

Hiking near Lincoln City: Two of our favorite hikes in Oregon – Cascade Head and God’s Thumb – are about 20 to 30 minutes south of Pacific City, and are worth the detour. Both offer excellent views of the coast with relatively low effort. Cascade Head takes you on a journey through the forest before emerging onto the bluffs over the ocean and climbing up to the top of the ridge, where the views get even better. God’s Thumb is a hike that takes you to a rock formation that pops out over the coast, with great views in both directions. Both hikes are worthwhile, though we’d give the slight edge to Cascade Head (plus, it’s closer to Pacific City). 

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a funny little place. On one hand, the town of Cannon Beach itself is fairly meh. There are some cool shops, but the majority are very much geared for tourists (think candy stores and fine art galleries). 

But the natural beauty that exists in Cannon Beach and in the state parks to the north and south of the town is pretty spectacular, and that’s what we think makes Cannon Beach special. One of the most iconic landscapes in the entire state is the looming form of Haystack Rock rising out of the ocean to tower over Cannon Beach. 

Cannon Beach is the most popular town on the Oregon Coast, so you’re going to want to plan in advance if you’re coming on a weekend in the summer or fall. We’ve stayed in Cannon Beach in the winter and early spring and loved it. It can be wet and rainy, sure, but it’s far less crowded than the peak summer months. 

What to Do in Cannon Beach 

Here are a few of our favorite things to do and see in Cannon Beach. 

Haystack Rock: It’s popular for a reason. While you’re in town, you should absolutely head out to Haystack Rock to see it in person. Go at low tide, if you can, which lets you get much closer to the base of the rock. Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll get a glimpse of the puffin colony (it’s worth talking to the rangers who are around to learn about them, if you can). We’ve seen a pair of bald eagles raiding the puffin eggs and flying off while being attacked by the puffins. It was wild! 

Public Coast Brewing Co: Great fish and chips and other pub food (with lots of gluten free options) and the best brewery in Cannon Beach. A perfect post-hike lunch stop. 

Ecola State Park: The state park on the northern side of Cannon Beach is accessed by a tree-lined, windy road that takes you out to two parking lots. Our advice: park at the first parking lot if you can and hike first to Indian Beach and back (this is the best stretch of hiking in the park), then come back, have a picnic, and do the hike down to Crescent Beach. Indian Beach is also a great place to lounge in the sun on a sandy beach, but you’re going to want to get there early on warm summer weekends, because it’s popular and parking is very limited. 

Oswald West State Park: For this state park on the southern side of Cannon Beach we think your approach should be similar to Ecola. Do one longer hike – either Cape Falcon (out to the tip of the cape on the north side of the cove) or Neahkahnie Mountain (switchbacks straight up, ending with a sweeping view out over the coast to the south) – then finish with the walk out to Short Sand Beach, a very popular surf spot that’s best at low tide. 

The Willamette Valley

I didn’t quite understand just how world class the wines coming out of the WIllamette Valley are until I found myself in Burgundy, France on a wine-focused trip in 2022.

Just about every time I told someone in the wine industry in Burgundy that I was from Portland, Oregon, they immediately said something along the lines of “oh, the pinot noir from the Willamette Valley is quite good, no?” 

Turns out, Burgundy and the Willamette Valley are something like sister wine regions. They’re at roughly the same latitude, and the main grape varieties – pinot noir and chardonnay – are the same. 

The other thing I have since learned about wine from the Willamette Valley is that the chardonnay here is NOT like the outdated picture I had in my mind about what chardonnay tastes like.

In my mind, every chardonnay was like the $10 bottle at Trader Joe’s that tastes similar to what I imagine getting smacked in the face with an oak tree tastes like. 

So, when I declined a chardonnay at a tasting room in the valley, saying “I’m not a huge chardonnay fan because I don’t like the oaky, buttery thing,” the person said “oh, that’s not how we do it here.”

And that’s how I learned that not all chardonnay is a gross, oaky mess (no hate if that’s your thing, it’s just not mine). 

All this is to say that there is some truly excellent wine coming out of the Willamette Valley, and a weekend is a good amount of time to spend to get a taste for it. 

What to Do in the Willamette Valley

The Willamette Valley is a 150 mile long slice of land that basically runs from the Columbia River down to Eugene. Technically, Portland is part of the Willamette Valley. 

But when we’re talking about the Willamette Valley as a Portland weekend getaway, we’re mostly referring to the area between McMinnville (or Dundee) on the north end, and Salem on the south end .  

The two main towns – Dundee and McMinnville – are a good place to base yourself if you’re wanting the amenities of a city like restaurants, bars, grocery stores, and places to shop. If you’re wanting to immerse yourself in the rolling hills and endless vines of the Willamette Valley, then staying somewhere more rustic might be a better bet. 

McMinnville is a charming little town, centered around Third Street, the main commercial strip. It’s lined with places to eat and drink and small shops to poke your head into. 

We like Third Street Books for, uh, books, and always stop by Alchemist Jam for their incredible fruit preserves with innovative flavor combinations that you can get slathered on freshly baked bread at their location in McMinnville. 

However, you’re really here for the wine, right? So let’s talk about wine. 

Oregon wine country is relatively young both when you compare it to the “Old World” (France, Italy, etc) and when you compare it to other wine regions on the West Coast, particularly in California. Wine has only been grown in Oregon for less than a century! 

I, Matt, was absolutely flabbergasted when I was in Burgundy – one of France’s most prestigious wine regions – and, after telling them I was from Portland, they commented on how much they love Willamette Valley wines. Turns out, the geography and climate are fairly similar, which is why the wines that come from the Willamette Valley are fairly similar to those in Burgundy. 

Which is to say mostly chardonnay and pinot noir, the latter being the varietal that the Willamette Valley has become most famous for. 

One thing to know about chardonnay here: it’s not the buttery, oaky chardonnay that you might find in California. That particular style, I learned in both Burgundy and the Willamette Valley, gives chardonnay a bad name. The chardonnay you’re likely to encounter here is light, bright, and fun!

Our advice for a weekend getaway to wine country would be to do somewhere between one to three tastings each day, and spend the rest of your time relaxing and enjoying the slower pace of life in the valley. 

Here are a few places in the Valley that we love for wine, and think you will too. 

Johan Vineyards : Our personal favorite of the many, many tasting rooms in the Willamette Valley. The tasting is a good value, and they generally have a few fun bottles open that they might let you taste. Their Jazzy Juice, a chillable red, and their pet-nats are our favorites of the wines they make. 

Day Wines : They have a fun tasting room in Dundee where they have their low intervention wines for you to try, ranging from light whites and juicy rose to deep reds (from grapes grown in southern Oregon. Nothing pretentious here – they’re all very approachable and drinkable, even if you don’t know much about wine (that’s us!). 

Domaine Drouhin : Started by a winemaker from Burgundy, this is the place to go for a tasting that compares wine from the Willamette Valley and wine from Burgundy side by side, which is a fun way to do it.  

Art + Science : Our favorite cider in the Willamette Valley! They make low-intervention wine, cider, and co-ferments of grapes and apples/pears that are delightful if you’re into bone dry cider. They have a tiny tasting shack in the middle of their orchard, and it’s only open on weekends in the summertime when they have events and live music. 

Crater Lake National Park

Over the past few years, we’re extremely lucky to have been to multiple places that make you consider what it must have been like to experience that place without any expectations. 

Today, thanks in part to the internet and, before the internet was prevalent, travel books and travel photography, we generally have some idea of what to expect whenever we’re visiting a place. 

We’ve seen countless beautiful photos of just about any place we’re going, and there are some places (like the Grand Canyon, for example) where we wish we could experience the pure euphoria of seeing something so majestic without the burden of expectations. 

Crater Lake National Park is one of those places.

As we were circumnavigating the rim road, we talked about what it must have been like to be climbing through the forest and emerge onto the rim, accidentally stumbling across Crater Lake and seeing the massive caldera with stunning sapphire-colored water stretching out in front of you. 

To be completely frank, Crater Lake National Park isn’t our favorite national park in the Pacific Northwest because it’s relatively small and limited in what you can do and see (which is why it makes a great 2-3 day weekend trip). 

However, we do think it is certainly worth visiting once, and it’s the only national park in Oregon! 

Getting to Crater Lake National Park

The biggest problem with Crater Lake is that it’s not really close to anything (which also presents a dilemma when it comes to where to stay, which we’ll get to below). The closest major city is Bend, and that’s assuming you can call Bend a major city, which we’re not so sure about. 

Even from Bend, it’s still a two hour drive to the main visitor center at Crater Lake (Rim Village on the south rim). 

To get to Crater Lake from Portland, our favorite route is to head south on I-5 to Roseburg, and then cut over on Highway 138, stopping at Toketee Falls and Diamond Lake en route to Crater 

Lake. This drops you on the northern rim of the lake, and you can head around the western rim to get to the visitor center. 

From Portland to the south rim of Crater Lake, it’s going to be a five hour drive . It’s a long one, but we’d say the sapphire blue water of Crater Lake will wash away your fatigue and exasperation of driving when you emerge onto the rim and get your first glimpse of the lake. 

Part of the reason we wouldn’t recommend visiting outside the summer and fall has to do with road closures.

If you visit in the winter and spring, you’re likely going to have to drive allll the way around to enter through the south entrance, which adds some time to the already long drive. 

Plus, in the winter and spring, the eastern half of the rim road is closed, which makes it hard to access the best hike in the park (Mount Scott). 

What to Do in Crater Lake National Park 

To be honest, you probably only need a maximum of three days in Crater Lake National Park, which makes it an ideal weekend getaway destination.

Here’s what we think you should do in the park. 

Hike to the highest point in the park: The highest accessible point in the park is Mount Scott, where you’ll find an old fire lookout perched on a ridge with excellent views of both Crater Lake and the surrounding landscape. This hike is very, very exposed – there’s essentially zero shade from start to finish – so bring water and sunscreen. It’s a moderate hike (4.2 miles / 1,200 feet elevation) and the views make the climb worth it, we think. 

Hike to the lakefront: We like combining the hike to the top of Mount Scott with the hike down to the lakefront at Cleetwood Cove, which gives you two different perspectives in one day. One from the highest point, and one from the lowest point (aka the lakefront). This is also a moderate hike (2.0 miles / 600 feet elevation gain), and it’s truly straight up and straight down from the parking lot. But taking a dip in the crystal clear water of the lake makes it well worth the effort. 

Catch a sunset over the lake: The way that the sun sets over the western rim of the lake, bringing a brilliant orange glow over the walls of the crater, is nothing short of magical. Witnessing a sunset for yourself should be one of the major pieces of your Crater Lake National Park itinerary. Ideally, you’ll hike up to Garfield Peak , which is on the southern rim and gives you a panoramic view of the lake, including the setting sun and the opposite rim where you’ll get that sweet orange glow. Alternatively, you can hike up to Watchman Peak on the western rim, but the sunset will be behind you (this is a better sunrise spot, we think). For a nice view without a hike, head to this overlook , where we caught a beautiful sunset on our last trip.  

Drive the entirety of the rim road around the lake: The drive around the lake is a must-do, especially if you’re able to do it either early in the morning (pre-9am) when there are far, far fewer cars on the road. Seeing the lake from different angles and with different lighting is amazing, and it’s fun to see the water go from sapphire blue to crystal clear and bright blue depending on what angle you’re seeing it from. 

At one point, we grouped Sisters and Bend into one category, thinking “oh, they’re pretty close together, they don’t need to be separate destinations.” Same vibe, right?

However, after a few trips to Sisters, we decided to add it to this list because it is very much a different vibe and set of attractions than what Bend has to offer. 

Sisters itself is a charming little town that was either built or remodeled to have a Western theme, but when we go to Sisters, we rarely spend more than a few hours walking around town (it’s very compact). 

The real magic happens outside of the town itself, where you’ll find mountains, mountain views, the Metolius River, lakes, and more. 

Using Sisters as a home base gives you relatively easy access to the surrounding areas, which include some of our favorite places to visit in Oregon. 

What to Do in Sisters

Here are a few of our favorite things to do in Sisters. 

Hike in the Cascades: If you’re here in the summer, you’ll find a nearly endless number hikes for a variety of different fitness levels, from multi-day backpacking trips to short walks around a lake. We have a couple of recommendations for you, obviously. First is Canyon Creek Meadows , which we tackled on our latest trip to Sisters and, though the weather was strictly okay (it rained A LOT later that afternoon), it was still a lovely hike that takes you up to the base of Three Fingered Jack. Second is the Cone Peak Trail , which was one of our very first hikes in Oregon and remains one of our favorites to this day thanks to the excellent panoramic views from the summit and the amazing wildflower displays in the early summer. 

Meander around Sisters: As we mentioned, we don’t spend a whole lot of our trips to Sisters in Sisters itself. But we DO always stop in town to walk the short little loop. Matt loves Sisters Coffee , and it’s usually our first stop in town. The Barn in Sisters is worth a stop for lunch – it’s a collection of food carts set around a bar (in a barn). Other notable stops are Sisters Bakery for pastries, and Sisters Meat and Smokehouse next door for sandwiches and a small gourmet food shop. There are also some good bookstores, art galleries, and other odds and ends that are fun to peruse. 

Drive the Mckenzie River Scenic Byway: Our favorite scenic drive in Oregon! This drive is nothing short of spectacular, but it is ONLY doable in the summer because the extra scenic part of the drive – Highway 242 – is closed seasonally (when you drive it, you’ll see why). Here’s a map of a loop that starts and ends in Sisters that we’d do, along with all of our favorite stops. In particular, we wouldn’t miss Sahalie Falls (which is on the McKenzie Highway, technically not part of the Scenic Byway), Proxy Falls, Scott Lake, and the Dee Wright Observatory. 

Explore the West Metolius River: This was a surprise for us, because while we’d heard of the Metolius River before, we had never considered actually visiting it (we’re not into fishing, which seems to be the primary recreation on the river) until we found ourselves within 15 minutes of it. Turns out, we should have visited sooner! It’s a beautiful area, and there’s a really nice and easy loop along the riverbank that is well worth doing (the trail continues north from the end of that particular route, but leaves the river for a bit before picking it back up).

stayed) would be the Left Coast Lodge , which is a five minute walk from downtown and has nicely decorated rooms (some have fridges + microwaves and kettles, some are pet-friendly). 

Seattle, washington.

This section is going to seem a little biased, and that’s because Matt grew up there and still loves the Emerald City (don’t worry, I’ve adopted the Timbers and root for them over the Sounders!).

Seattle is a city that has gone through significant shifts and changes over the past decade or so with the rise of Amazon (though Seattle’s history is just one big sequence of major shifts), which is headquartered in Seattle’s South Lake Union. 

Still, regardless of how we feel about Amazon (spoiler: not great), Seattle is a wonderful city that’s worth your time. It has a strong culture scene, with a neverending list of shows and productions coming through town, and some fantastic neighborhoods to explore (we love Capitol Hill and Ballard). 

In the same way that Portland comes alive when the sun is out, Seattle is at its best in the summer and fall, when days are long, Mount Rainier is visible from all corners of the city, and the calendar is packed with events from block parties to farmers markets. 

Plus, it’s one of the only weekend getaways from Portland that you can do by public transportation, which is WILD (more trains, please!). 

Getting From Portland to Seattle

Kind of like visiting Portland, you probably don’t need a car while you’re in Seattle, and it’s likely to be more of a hindrance than a help in most cases (not to mention an expense because you’re almost certainly going to have to pay to park). 

For that reason, we’d strongly recommend taking the Amtrak Cascades between Portland and Seattle , which is what Matt has done many times to go back to visit family. 

It’s only slightly longer than the drive (assuming no traffic, which is almost never true), and you can sit back, relax, and read/catch up on your favorite show/scroll TikTok for a few hours. 

If you do decide to drive, it’ll take about two and a half or three hours without traffic. However, there is almost always traffic, especially passing through Olympia (and Joint Base Lewis-Mcchord) and Tacoma, so if you can leave midday to get through those areas between 12pm and 3pm, do it!

What to Do in Seattle

Seattle is a great city, and a few days is nowhere near enough time to explore every corner of it.

Like Portland, it’s a city split between the downtown core (similar vibes to the west side of the river in Portland, with a downtown area and some cool adjacent neighborhoods) and the more residential areas beyond (like the east side of the river in Portland). 

Both are well worth your time, but with just a two or three day trip, you’re going to be hard-pressed to make it to all of the different neighborhoods.

We’d focus your time on the three neighborhoods in the downtown core: Downtown Seattle, Belltown/South Lake Union, and Capitol Hill .  

Here are some of our favorite things to do and see in those areas. 

Pike Place Market: How could we not start with Pike Place Market, which is both a huge tourist trap and also well worth a visit? There are some truly great places to eat and drink at the market, and the best way to find them is to wander a bit (we like Beecher’s for the cheese, which you’re probably familiar with if you live in Portland, Piroshky Piroshky, and Rachel’s Ginger Beer). If you really want to get into the food scene, take this food tour , which my mom and brother have done as a birthday gift and enjoyed. Whatever you do, DO NOT wait in line at the “original” Starbucks , which is not in fact the original, and is no different than any other Starbucks in the country. Seriously. I cannot believe people wait 45 minutes in line to go here. Head to Victrola Coffee or Ghost Alley Espresso right near the market instead!

The Seattle Center: The three things worth doing at Seattle Center are the excellent Museum of Pop Culture (lots of good music-related exhibits around Seattle’s role in the grunge scene), the Chihuly Gardens and Glass (Dale Chihuly was a mastermind when it comes to glass), and Caffe Vita at KEXP (the coolest setting for a coffee shop in Seattle, where you can sip your drink right outside the recording studio for Seattle’s alternative radio station, KEXP). The thing not worth doing? Going to the top of the Space Needle. It’s ridiculously expensive ($40+ a person at the time of writing) and the view is missing a key piece of the skyline…the Space Needle! Skip it. 

Kerry Park for Sunset: The reason we don’t recommend that you go up the Space Needle is that there is a perfectly lovely viewpoint 10 minutes away that is free, and INCLUDES the Space Needle, which is an iconic piece of the Seattle skyline. Plus, a view of Mount Rainier and Elliott Bay on a clear night! This is the most popular sunset spot in the city, so don’t expect to be alone up here. We bring all the friends and family who visit us in Seattle here. 

Explore Capitol Hill: Capitol Hill is easily one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Seattle, and we consistently find ourselves coming back here every time we’re in town, either to eat or drink, or just to soak up the vibes. Historically, it was the most LGBTQ+-friendly part of the city, and while that’s still true today, it has shifted more towards the yuppie end of the spectrum in the past 5-10 years with the huge influx of tech money. Still, it’s well worth a visit, and we’d probably make it an afternoon/evening jaunt to take advantage of food and drinks. Shop at Elliott Bay Books (the Powell’s of Seattle), eat Seattle’s iconic ice cream around the corner at Molly Moons (or Frankie and Jo’s nearby if you want plant-based ice cream), and stroll Pike Street. For drinks, go to Canon or Tavern Law for cocktails and impressive whiskey lists, or to Optimism Brewing for one of Seattle’s best breweries.

Take the ferry to Bainbridge Island: One of the unique pieces about Seattle’s geography is the fact that it is right on the water, but not the ocean. The Puget Sound separates Seattle from the Olympic Peninsula, and we LOVE taking the ferry over to Bainbridge Island for a half day excursion (and you don’t need a car, but you can take one on the ferry). The ferry ride leaves from downtown Seattle along the waterfront, and embarks on a picturesque journey across the Sound that includes (on a clear day) all three major mountains in Washington State: Mount Olympus (and the rest of the Olympic Range), Mount Rainier, and Mount Baker. Once you’re on Bainbridge, walk down the main strip (Winslow Way), do some window shopping, and eat at Blackbird Bakery (great baked goods) or Proper Fish (proper fish and chips, down to the newspaper wrapping and the mushy peas). 

Mount Rainier National Park

Ah, Mount Rainier! Matt grew up in the Seattle area, and his affection for Mount Rainier is similar to a lot of Portlanders and their love for Mount Hood.

Basically, Rainier (and Hood) are strongly associated with summer and nice weather, because the barometer of a good day in Seattle is whether or not “the Mountain” (meaning Rainier) is out. 

The thing we love about Mount Rainier – and what we think makes it special – is that, yeah, obviously it’s a massive mountain. But the fact that the vast majority of the area west of Rainier in western Washington and Oregon is basically at sea level makes it a prominent piece of the landscape.

In fact – and I just learned this – it’s the most topographically prominent peak in the contiguous United States, which basically means the difference between the peak and the surrounding landscape is the greatest of any other mountain. 

At 14,417 feet tall, it’s the highest peak in the Cascades, and it’s one of the best hiking destinations in the Pacific Northwest, especially in the early summer and fall. Though, we should note, it’s definitely NOT off the beaten path – we’re pretty sure the beaten path runs right through it.

We think the hype is well earned, and have found ourselves hiking at Rainier each of the past three summers. The downside is that, because it’s so popular, you will need to plan well in advance, so it’s probably not the best impromptu weekend getaway from Portland. 

A note on when to visit: If you live in Portland you probably already know this, but at Mount Rainier, the word “summer” means something completely different than it does in most other contexts. 

In Mount Rainier National Park, “summer” refers to the best time to visit for hiking and wildflowers, which is a relatively small window from late July through August. Before late July, higher elevation trails will likely be snow-covered and largely inaccessible without snowshoes and/or microspikes. 

Wildflower season at Rainier peaks in the last week of July and first week of August, depending on the year. It’s a VERY popular time to be there.

Early fall is arguably a better time to visit for crowds, though the weather is going to be a little more unpredictable. The first two weeks of October generally bring a blanket of orange and red hues to the underbrush at Rainier, which is quite a sight. 

What to Do in Mount Rainier National Park

Before we talk about the best things to do, let’s quickly cover the geography of Mount Rainier National Park. 

The park is split into four main regions (sometimes five, but we like to think about it as four): Paradise, Sunrise, Ohanapecosh, and Mowich Lake. They are located at various points around Rainier, and because Rainier is so massive, you often have to drive several hours to get between the different areas.  

The two main areas you’ll want to focus on are Paradise and Sunrise . 

Paradise is the easiest to access from Portland , located on the southern side of the mountain, and is quintessential Mount Rainier with great hikes, alpine lakes, wildflower displays, and an impressive array of waterfalls. 

Sunrise is on the eastern flank, and is the highest elevation point you can drive to in the park . Several of our favorite hikes at Rainier leave from this one parking lot, and it’s a veritable hikers paradise. It is significantly further from Portland, though, and there are only a few places to stay within 45 minutes (more on that below). 

If it’s your first time at Rainier, we’d strongly recommend Paradise, and ONLY Paradise . There’s plenty to do to fill two or three days without making the long journey around the mountain to the other areas. 

If it’s your second or third time, consider doing the same with Sunrise, spending two to three days exploring that side of the Mountain. 

We’ll talk about the best place to stay to access Paradise and Sunrise below. 

At Paradise , which has the best range of things to do from waterfalls to lakes and countless hiking trails, you’ve got plenty of things to do to fill a weekend trip. Generally, we’d suggest getting a really, really early start on a big hike of the day, and then using the rest of the day to check out the lakes and waterfalls. 

Here are some of our favorite things to do at Paradise. 

• Hike the Skyline Trail: Easily in the top 3 best hikes at Mount Rainier, the Skyline Trail is popular for a reason. It’s a great bang-for-your-buck when it comes to views of Rainier’s glaciated peak, wildflower meadows, and the surrounding Cascade range. It’s a very, very popular trail that leaves right from the main visitor center, so get an early start to secure parking. 
• Go chasing waterfalls! Paradise is home to some pretty spectacular waterfalls, most of which are accessible a few hundred feet from the parking lot. You’ll encounter Myrtle Falls along the Skyline Trail, which has a perfect background of Rainier’s peak. Narada and Christine Falls (framed by a nice stone bridge) are along the road up to Paradise, and are right off of the road. Comet Falls is a six mile hike (round trip) where the payoff is worth the journey. 
• Admire Reflection Lakes at sunset. For a near perfect reflection of Rainier, head to Reflection Lakes around sunset and watch the setting sun turn Rainier’s peak pink for a few precious minutes before it sinks below the horizon. It’s often windy here, so you may or may not get the reflection you’re looking for, but it’s still well worth a visit. 
• Hike to Bench and Snow Lakes. A short hike to two nice alpine lakes, this trail is far, far less trafficked than most of the other hikes in the area, but the payoff is lovely. Be ready for bugs in July and August. 

At Sunrise , it’s all about the hiking. There are three excellent hikes that leave from the parking lot of the visitor center, head along picturesque Sourdough Ridge, and offer very different experiences along the way. 

• Burroughs Mountain: Get so close to Rainier’s peak you can almost reach out and touch it. There are three burroughs, and the official trail goes to the first two. The third burrough adds significant distance and elevation gain, but is worth the effort if you have the fitness level and appetite. The hike takes you up from the lush subalpine meadows into the high alpine tundra, which is largely barren and rocky, which is a fun contrast. 
• Mount Fremont Lookout: A hike to an old fire lookout – there are a bunch of them in Washington State – with excellent views out over the valley towards Rainier. Keep an eye out for marmots along the ridge as you approach the lookout. This is a VERY popular sunset spot, so be prepared for crowds. 
• Berkeley Park: THE place to go for a week or two in the summer (usually late July or early August, but depends on the year) for the wildflower meadows. It’s a sea of lupine, paintbrush, and all sorts of white and yellow flowers.

A special shout out for Tipsoo Lake and the Naches Peak Loop at the base of the road up to Sunrise, which is probably the best bang-for-your-buck easy hike in Washington State. And also for the Summerland Trail to Panhandle Gap, which is also worth your time (though it’s a tougher hike). 

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is, perhaps, the most diverse national park on the west coast (maybe the country?) in terms of the number of different ecosystems that exist within its sprawling borders.

The three main ecosystems you’ll come across are the rocky coastline, the coastal temperate rainforest, and the rocky alpine region, and each offers a unique set of sights, smells, and sounds.

The reason all of that diversity can exist within the boundaries of the park is that the park boundaries are sort of drawn like a voting district. And by that, we mean they make almost no sense at all from a geographical standpoint. As you’re driving Highway 101, you’ll weave in and out of the park boundaries without even knowing it. 

The reason we bring this up is that it has a practical implication for your trip. To get between the two main regions of the park – the coast and the alpine area at Hurricane Ridge – it will take you at least an hour and a half, usually more. 

For that reason, we would STRONGLY recommend making this a long weekend trip (3 days / 2 nights, at a minimum) and splitting your nights between two areas to minimize the amount of time you spend driving back and forth (more on what those areas should be and what direction to go in the subsections below). 

We love Olympic National Park, and there’s something really special about hiking at 7,000 feet above sea level in the morning, and then ending your evening on the Pacific beaches at sea level watching the sunset over the sea stocks and driftwood. 

Olympic National Park is on the Olympic Peninsula, across the Puget Sound from the city of Seattle in the northwest corner of the contiguous United States. 

The park is fairly sprawling, and when you look at it on a map and consider drive times, it’s massive. 

There are two starting points (or main hubs) for visiting the park, and they are the cities of Port Angeles and Forks. We’d recommend making your weekend getaway a loop that starts in Portland, heads up to Port Angeles, and loops down the coast on your way back to Portland. 

Port Angeles is further from Portland, which means you’ll hit the longer leg of the drive on the front end, when you’re bright eyed and bushy tailed, and then have a slightly shorter drive home on the back end. 

What to Do in Olympic National Park

As mentioned above, Olympic National Park is massive, which means we’re going to organize this section by region. 

The four regions we’re going to focus on are Hurricane Ridge, the Sol Duc Valley, the Pacific Coast, and the coastal temperate rainforest. Which, conveniently, are in the order you’ll encounter them if you start at the northern end of the park near Port Angeles and make your way south along Highway 101 to Kalaloch at the southern end of the park. 

Hurricane Ridge: Hurricane Ridge is the highest point in the park that you can drive to, and as you climb the steep, winding road from sea level, you’ll start to see the landscape subtly shift. When you emerge onto the ridge, you’ll be face to face with the Olympics looming across the Hoh River Valley directly in front of you. The first thing to do is the hike to Hurricane Hill , which gives you a panoramic view out over northern Washington and southern British Columbia. If you’re looking for a longer hike, you can head to Klahhane Ridge , which has a few different options depending on how much hiking you’re up for. The second thing you should do here (provided it’s the summer) is drive out along Obstruction Point Road , which is a narrow gravel road along a ridge only accessible to passenger vehicles (no RVs or trailers). There are some great views along the way, and some good hikes from the parking area at the end. 

The Sol Duc Valley / Lake Crescent: The Sol Duc Valley sits roughly at sea level just west of the road up to Hurricane Ridge, and is a vastly different landscape. Here, it’s all about lush evergreen forests and Lake Crescent, which is very much the star of the show. At Lake Crescent, we’d definitely hike up to Marymere Falls , which is a short, easy jaunt. If you’re looking for a bigger hike, head all the way to the summit of Mount Storm King , which is harder (and involves some rope-assisted climbing at the end). Afterwards, head over to the historic Lake Crescent Lodge, which is right on the shore of the lake, for a drink and a picnic lunch. Don’t miss the drive up Sol Duc Road to Sol Duc Falls , one of our favorite waterfalls in the park. 

The Pacific Coast: The Pacific Coast is about an hour west of Lake Crescent, and the main city nearby is Forks, which you’ll know of if you grew up in the early 2000’s because it was ground zero for the Twilight saga. There are two subregions here – the northern Pacific Coast and the southern Pacific Coast – and with limited time (e.g. two or three nights), we’d strongly recommend focusing your time on the southern portion, which is more accessible and offers more bang-for-your-buck. Don’t miss Ruby Beach and Second Beach, two of the best driftwood-laden, sea stack-y beaches on this stretch of coast. We’d definitely try to do the easy hike on Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall around sunset if the weather is holding up, which is one of our favorites. Don’t forget to look up for bald eagles in the treetops on the beach!

The Coastal Temperate Rainforest: Perhaps the most unique ecosystem out here is the coastal temperate rainforest, which thrives in the mild, wet climates of the Pacific Northwest coast. The Hoh Rainforest is the most famous example in the park, and it’s no surprise that it’s also the most busy. Parking is very limited, so our best tip is to show up before 9am (if you’re there either on a weekend, or any day in the summer) to avoid having to wait in the one in, one out line at the entrance station. Plus, that’s the best time to see the resident Roosevelt elk that hang out in the rainforest! Once you’ve navigated the parking situation, hike the short Spruce Nature Trail and Hall of Mosses , which are about two miles together. If you’re looking to get deeper into the rainforest to find a bit of solitude and escape the crowds, we really like the Hoh River Trail . It goes all the way to Mount Olympus, but the portion you’re focused on here is the first 2-3 miles of trail, which take you through the lush ferny rainforest and out to the river, which is a good turnaround spot. 

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6 Romantic Getaways in Oregon

By Portland Monthly Staff February 7, 2024

Retro-hip trailers await at the Vintages in Dayton.

Image: Courtesy The Vintages

Romance requires no holiday. But sometimes it needs a little kick in the pants, and Valentine's Day, despite all the moaning and maligning it inspires, can serve that purpose. If you and your squeeze are looking to find love in the air—and also luxe spa treatments, horseback rides, and nostalgia-inducing lawn flamingos—you're in the right place. We have six romantic Oregon getaways on tap for you (plus dinner dates and special-day surprises in town).

The Vintages Trailer Resort

Hankering for a bit of nostalgia? The Vintages Trailer Resort, tucked deep in wine country, features 36 fully restored and custom-built trailers, some dating back to the early 1940s. The resort offers all the requisite glamping necessities on site—think outdoor grills, cruiser bikes, a clubhouse, and a general store to stock up on chocolates and vino. Add-ons include snack baskets, mini campfire kits, and a Flock It to Me package featuring lawn flamingos and mixings for champagne shirley temples. 

Image: Salishan

Salishan Spa and Golf Resort

Lincoln City

If the unbeatable views of Siletz Bay don’t woo you at this 200-acre coastal lodge, the indulgent spa services will: we're talking hot stone massages, custom facials, and "aromasoul" volcanic scrub treatments. When not cozying up next to the fireplace in your room or enjoying the view from your private balcony, try the whirlpool hot tub, nearby nature trails, and mountain bike course. Or perhaps a couples yoga class is in order?

Image: Courtesy Brasada Ranch

Brasada Ranch

Find luxury accommodations—cabins with private hot tubs, lodge suites with gas fireplaces, sleek bungalows with panoramic windows—at Central Oregon's Brasada Ranch. The 2,000-acre spot, with its wide-open views of the snow-dusted Cascades, can be explored on foot or by horseback. A spa, golf course, and athletic center round out the amenities. Through April 30 the resort is offering 25 percent off your stay , and on February 14, the Range Restaurant will serve a four-course Valentine's Day meal.  

Image: Courtesy Neuman Hotel Group

Lithia Springs Resort

We're very fond of Ashland, with its quaint turn-of-the-century architecture, "health water"–spouting public fountains , and  sweet lil' nonprofit ski hill . After exploring the area, the Lithia Springs Resort awaits, with more than four acres of lush gardens, a koi pond, fountains, gazebos, a spa, and an expansive wine bar. Through February, enjoy a  Valentine's package that includes a couples side-by-side aromatherapy massages, chocolate-covered strawberries, and rose petal turndown service. 

Image: Courtesy Kam Nielsen

Running Y Resort

Klamath Falls

Sure, it's a long four-hour drive to Running Y Resort, nestled in Oregon's southern Cascades near Klamath Falls. But haven't you always wanted to see Crater Lake—just an hour's drive north—in the winter? Continue your embrace of the season as you try out the resort's Olympic-size ice rink, smack some tiny balls at the Arnold Palmer–designed golf course, and luxuriate at the spa. Not to be missed in February is the chance to see the largest concentration of wintering bald eagles in the continental US—up to 780 of them spend the season in the Klamath Basin. Cap it off with a Valentine's Day dinner featuring a special menu and live music.

IMAGE: COURTESY ATTICUS HOTEL

Atticus Hotel

McMinnville

McMinnville hosts the small-town heart and unofficial capital of Oregon wine country, and there's no better home base than downtown's posh but pretense-free Atticus Hotel . Take one of the hotel's Dutch-style tandem bikes out for a spin, and then lounge by your room's private fireplace in a Pendleton bathrobe. McMinnville's food scene punches far above its weight—Okta, thanks to Michelin-starred chef Matthew Lightner and brilliant sommelier Ron Acierto , is the best restaurant Oregon wine country has ever seen . Don't sleep on  Humble Spirit , either. Finally, stop in at the nearby Granary District, where the town's defunct industrial and farm buildings have been reclaimed by vineyards, breweries, and retailers.

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How to Spend an Indulgent Weekend in Portland, Oregon

From bustling outdoor markets and plenty of food carts to lazy afternoons by the Willamette River running through the center of town, Portland during the summertime is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies and oenophiles.

Given Portland’s laid-back nature, luxury isn’t the first word one might use to describe a vacation in Oregon’s largest city. But even with its hipster reputation, Portland has a sophisticated side. Surrounded by spectacular natural beauty, Portland offers visitors a creative journey through its arts and outdoor scenes, all set against the sublime backdrop of Mount Hood.

While it still has that quirky charm, Portland has no shortage of fine dining and craft cocktail bars . It’s also a great home base for exploring the luxurious wine regions just south of the city in the Willamette Valley. 

Summer is arguably the best time to visit the Pacific Northwest , and that is especially true for Portland. Sure, the city has a reputation for rather dreary weather, but from May through September, the skies truly open up to the most abundant sunshine—and without the humidity. The warmer months offer a unique opportunity to experience the city at its most vibrant. From bustling outdoor markets and plenty of food carts to lazy afternoons by the Willamette River running through the center of town, Portland during the summertime is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies and oenophiles.

In a locale that effortlessly blends natural beauty with urban cool, it’s easier than ever to plan out an opulent weekend in the City of Roses.

The Ultimate Portland Travel Guide

Fools and horses, multnomah whiskey library, teardrop lounge, knot springs, wildwood & company/day in the life gallery, willamette valley, take a helicopter ride, the ritz-carlton, portland, where to eat.

• 250 NW 13th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209

One of Portland's most exciting and lauded openings of the last couple years, Janken is a culinary journey through Japanese-Korean fusion cuisine curated by executive chef Rodrigo Ochoa . A true gem in the Pearl District, Janken focuses on sharing plates, handcrafted cocktails and embracing a traditional-contemporary blend to create a comfortable yet upscale dining experience. Even the simplest dishes, like a veggie maki roll, will leave you in awe and asking for more. Other can’t-miss items include the mushroom bao buns with truffle and pickled onions; the japchae sweet potato noodles with mushrooms, carrot, red pepper, and egg; the matcha tiramisu with ladyfingers and rum mascarpone cream; and the “Pineapple Express” cocktail—a presentation experience you must see for yourself without spoilers.

• 960 SE 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97214

One of Portland’s most beloved restaurants just celebrated its 10th anniversary in April 2024, and it’s been an eventful decade, to say the least. Owners Bonnie and Israel Morales were both already  industry veterans when they opened Kachka in 2014, and one of the more common themes to their establishment is educating diners about what kind of food they serve. It’s not just Russian food, and it’s not just European food. Think of it more as cuisine from all over nations previously part of the Soviet Union, as well as those of Central Asia. Open for lunch and dinner, among some of the most popular dishes are vareniki (dumplings) filled with farmer’s cheese, chives and scallions; and mushroom shila plavi, a risotto-esque Georgian dish with local mushrooms and smoked sulguni cheese. (It’s also sometimes referred to as “funeral rice,” as it is usually served to uplift those in mourning.) Kachka’s location in southeast Portland’s Goat Blocks consists of three dining spaces: a lounge, a larger dining room and a private dining hall seating up to 40 for dinner parties. Each space encourages sharing of food and drink, exemplified by the restaurant’s motto: “Clink. Drink. Eat. Repeat.” The Morales duo also added a Russian deli, Lavka, where guests can sample Kachka's line of vodka infusions and purchase grab-and-go housemade dumplings and other delicacies to cook at home.

• 226 NW 12th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209

This buzzy cocktail-focused restaurant opened in October 2022, welcoming guests with western flair, custom wallpaper from Lonesome Pictopia and a pressed tin backbar illuminating the extensive spirit collection. The culinary program draws inspiration from a point of view unique to the islands of Hawaii—The Paniolo Cowboys—alongside chef Alex Wong’s childhood on Oahu and his time living across parts of Europe and the western United States. The beverage program places a strong emphasis on cocktails and a wide variety of worldly spirits, featuring not only fresh, seasonal elements in bright, shaken recipes but also expressive, rich, spirit-forward offerings that lend themselves to an inspired and intentional menu.

• 678 SW 12th Avenue, Portland, OR 97205

Tanaka’s menu is a blend of Japanese comfort food and artisanal baking, with a special focus on katsu, a breaded and deep-fried cutlet dish. Inspired by Osaka, Japan, Tanaka brings a taste of the city's culinary scene to Portland. But the menu is full of international twists, from the “dirty fries” with pulled pork and American cheese to the spam curry dip sandwiches. And anyone with a sweet tooth will be delighted by the fresh doughnuts, made on-site daily with locally sourced ingredients that represent flavors commonly found in Japanese cuisine.

• 921 SW Oak Street, Portland, OR 97205

Self-touted as a “modern pastry luncheonette,” Maurice’s menu (and the vibe—especially the vibes) represent the amalgam of chef Kristen Murray’s French and Norwegian heritage. The eatery’s menu offers a creative marriage of French techniques with Nordic ingredients and sensibilities. Expect light bites like French breakfast radishes with butter and salt, in addition to heartier fare like the “I Dream of Sweden,” composed of egg salad on toast with pickled herring, beets and alp blossom cheese. The wine list is also an adventure, with a healthy sampling of natural wines as well as a bevy of options produced around the Pacific Northwest.

Where to Drink

• 1124 SW Alder Street, Portland, OR 97205

If you’re looking for a nightcap, there is nowhere quite like the Multnomah Whiskey Library (or “whisky,” depending on what exactly you’re drinking). Named for the nearby majestic waterfall, Multnomah is a membership-based social club, bar and restaurant and home to one of the most extensive collections of spirits in North America—boasting more than 1,000 bottles of whiskey from around the world, in addition to other liquors such as cognac, tequila, mezcal, rum and Italian amaro. And while the menu is extensive, to say the least, the point isn’t to overwhelm, but to educate. Even just ordering a Whistlepig on the rocks is an experience, with tableside bar carts circling the room and pulling up to your table with your order.

• 1015 NW Everett Street, Portland, OR 97209

Open since 2007, the award-winning Teardrop Cocktail Lounge offers a broad spectrum of cocktails inspired by the seasons of the Pacific Northwest, as well as historical drink recipes from the last centuries. The menu also includes a page of original drinks created by industry friends from around the country, emphasizing the greater community-at-large and the collaborative spirit for which Portland is known.

• 18 NE 28th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232

Too Soon is one of the newest additions to the Portland nightlife scene. Inside, the sleek and contemporary furnishings are bathed in soft lighting, creating a cozy yet upscale ambiance. But the drinks are the real stars here. Fans of savory cocktails will enjoy the House Special, a concoction infused with fragrant curry spices and bell pepper. On the lighter side, the bar’s highballs come in variations like apple and horseradish, celery and shiso, or mango and chili using ice-cold Haku vodka on tap. And anyone who makes it to last call (just before 1 a.m.) is treated with a warm chocolate chip cookie on the house.

• 33 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 365, Portland, OR 97232

Knot Springs, just overlooking the Willamette River, is an urban oasis catering to those seeking a holistic approach to wellness, combining soaking in natural geothermal springs with fitness classes, massage therapies and a focus on mindfulness. The centerpiece of Knot Springs is undoubtedly the mineral-rich geothermal springs, where guests can unwind in the warm waters, letting the natural minerals soothe tired muscles and ease tension. Knot Springs offers day passes and packages for anyone seeking a day of pampering.

• 529 SW 3rd Avenue, Suite 100, Portland, OR 97204

Perhaps only in Portland will you find a contemporary art gallery and a bespoke tailoring shop all in one unit. Upon entering, guests will first find themselves in Day in the Life, which showcases works for sale from dozens of artists from all over the country—but especially the Pacific Northwest—in glassblowing, ceramics, weaving and more. The space, which used to be a Chinese restaurant, hosts numerous events, including artist demonstrations, whiskey tastings and fashion shows. But step into the backroom and you’ll find yourself in a custom suiting shop fit for Savile Row—but without any of the attitude. Wildwood is far more inclusive, too; co-founder Joe Mueller tells Observer many of his clients include women and members of the trans community, and he welcomes anyone to make an appointment for a consultation, even if they’re not ready to make a purchase. Within the walnut-hued wood walls of the back room, Mueller and his team creates custom suits, fanciful accent pieces and made-to-measure shoes fit for James Bond, but with far more flair.  Afterwards, definitely take the time to walk over to Powell's City of Books at Burnside—it’s less than a 15-minute stroll to the world’s largest independent bookstore. 

Spanning approximately 5,372 square miles (much larger than California’s Napa Valley down south), the Willamette Valley is home to more than 700 craft wineries. It’s a West Coast wine lover’s paradise, especially for pinot noir enthusiasts. The region is also on the map for some of the best domestic cheeses, and fresh farm-to-table dining has long been the status quo in the restaurant scene here. Among some of the wineries you should add to your day trip to-do list are Gran Moraine Wines , a jewel in the middle of the valley with indoor and outdoor tasting rooms and some of the most gorgeous views around, and Penner-Ash Wine Cellars , a family-owned winery tucked away up on a winding mountain road that looks straight out of a storybook.  For dinner, Okta , in the town of McMinnville, is a culinary destination in its own right. Michelin-starred chef Matthew Lightner crafts a highly progressive (and frequently changing) tasting menu finely tuned to the terroir of the region and its micro-climates. Most of the elements on the plate come from the restaurant’s nearby fermentation lab and proprietary farm, where the outdoor wood fire stove is also used for all the house-made breads and pastries. If you’re more of a craft beer enthusiast, there are plenty of breweries within Portland proper. 

There are few natural landscapes in North America, let alone the United States, as breathtaking as those in the Pacific Northwest. And what better way to take in those vistas than from the beautiful (and sometimes clear!) skies above. Oregon Helicopters offers tours over many of the local wonders, including the Columbia River Gorge, Forest Park, Mount Saint Helens and Multnomah Falls—the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest with more than 2 million visitors, according to the U.S. Forest Service .

Where to Stay

• 900 SW Washington Street, Portland, OR 97205

The first Ritz-Carlton property in the Pacific Northwest opened in October 2023, and it’s arguably one of the company’s best locations yet, with an ultra-modern interior design and state-of-the-art facilities. The 35-story tower hosts 251 rooms, and many of the suites are configured with a full bedroom, a cozy seating area and white marble bathrooms with freestanding eggshell bathtubs. Even from your bathtub, you have spectacular views of the city. The lobby area—decorated with original work by local artists—was designed to resemble walking through a forest, with features like columnar drapery resembling bark and dappled light filtering through the folds. And the giant tree stump in the hotel’s street-level bar and restaurant, Meadowrue (make sure to try the exclusive blend served here from coffee roasters cafe Coava), was salvaged after a fire in the Eagle Creek Forest. The hotel's signature restaurant, Bellpine, is on the 20th floor, offering panoramic views of Portland and Mount Hood. Operated by Michelin-starred chef Pedro Almeida , the menu showcases the bounty of local produce and proteins, with a drinks menu that includes beers from local distilleries. Just below the restaurant is what the hotel staff has coined as “Cloudbreak 19,” as it sits above the clouds, or sometimes just among them given the famous mercurial weather of the Pacific Northwest. It’s essentially the wellness floor, starting with the spa, which takes inspiration from the lines and shape of the curves and folds of a Portland rose, complete with rejuvenating treatments in the facility’s five treatment rooms. Just adjacent to the spa is arguably one of the best hotel gyms you will ever find, with all of the cardio machines and weights you could want during a short or long stay, as well as an indoor fitness center and an infinity pool.

• 525 SW Morrison Street, Portland, OR 97204

Located in downtown Portland just near Pioneer Square, this LEED Silver-certified Luxury Collection hotel occupies the top nine floors of the iconic Meier & Frank building, which was previously a department store before being transformed into high-end, mixed-use space. The Nines was Portland's first true five-star hotel; the interiors pay homage to its retail history with a blend of classic elegance with contemporary art installations and subtle nods to Portland's vibrant cultural scene. Each room is uniquely designed, featuring artwork by local Oregon artists.

• 1150 NE Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211

One might not look toward Portland’s residential neighborhoods for a five-star hotel and wellness resort, but true to the city’s spirit, expect the unexpected. Slated to open in summer 2024, the Cascada is located in Portland’s growing Alberta Arts District, halfway between the PDX airport and downtown Portland, making it only a 15-minute drive from each.  The minds behind the hotel describe the theme as “hedonistic wellness,” and guests who want to stick to a specific dietary and wellness program can plan personalized menus with the hotel concierge ahead of their trip. The hotel will have top-of-the line fitness and wellness facilities, including Portland’s first underground hot springs, complete with a hydrothermal circuit and an infrared Halotherapy salt sauna. There will also be several on-site dining options, including a health-forward program, but there will also be a full bar with a cocktail menu. 

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How to plan your summer vacation to the Oregon Coast

May 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Ecola State Park is just one of many incredible parks scattered along the Oregon Coast © Jordan SIemens / Getty Images

If you've ever struggled to choose between a cabin (or tent) in the woods and a seaside getaway, you’ll love Oregon’s Coast – especially in the summer. This 363-mile-long stretch of Pacific wonderland is not your typical beach destination.

Sure, there are plenty of sandy shores and rocked-in coves, seafood shacks and cozy ocean-facing inns. However, most of the region is covered by massive expanses of old-growth forests – many of which are on state- or federally-protected land – making it an equally ideal place for hiking and camping as it is for making sandcastles and taking long walks on the beach.

Sound like your kind of place? We thought so. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your summer vacation in this enchanting stretch of Pacific paradise .

Step 1: Choose where to base yourself

The Oregon Coast can be broken up into three segments: the North Coast , the Central Coast and the South Coast. For many people, it makes the most sense to stay in one of the larger hubs and take day trips to area highlights. Alternatively, you can start in the north and drive all the way to the south (or vice versa), spending a few nights in each region before continuing your voyage. Here are a few great options.

Vibes: The northernmost city on the Oregon Coast – and Oregon’s oldest city – Astoria is full of beautiful Victorian homes, some of which have been transformed into hotels and museums.

Do: Astoria is a hotspot for fans of the ‘80s cult film The Goonies, which was filmed right in town. Plenty of people make a pilgrimage to the city to see filming locations, including the so-called “Goonies House” and to learn about the state’s film industry at the Oregon Film Museum . Astoria is also a great base for fans of history and nature: Fort Stevens State Park, the site of the Peter Iredale shipwreck, is just outside of town, as is Fort Clatsop , where members of the U.S. Army's Corps of Discovery (aka the Lewis and Clark Expedition) spent the winter of 1805–1806.

Eat: Sample Oregon’s famous albacore tuna, breaded, fried and served up with thick-cut English-style fries at Bowpicker Fish & Chips , a walk-up window housed in a converted gillnet boat. For a fancy affair, head to Fedé Trattoria Astoria , which serves handcrafted Italian dinners made primarily from local ingredients.

Stay: For some of the best views in town, book a night at the Cannery Pier Hotel and Spa , situated at the end of a pier right in the river, next to the 4-mile-long Astoria-Megler Bridge.

Vibes: In the heart of the Central Coast region, Newport has all the trappings of an Oregon Coast getaway town – lots of independent shops, restaurants and boutique hotels – plus a thriving fishing industry that gives it a bit of a gritty edge. It’s also Oregon’s primary hub for marine science research.

Do: Newport is a great place to get kids interested in the natural world. Don’t miss the Oregon Coast Aquarium , where Free Willy star Keiko the orca prepped for his return to the wild, and the Hatfield Marine Science Center , where guests of all ages can get a hands-on introduction to life under the sea (yes, there are touch tanks).

Eat: You won't find seafood much fresher than what’s served up at Local Ocean , which sources everything from the crab used to craft its Dungeness crab cakes to the razor clams in its chowder from local fishers. For a fancy lunch or dinner, make your way to Clearwater Restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood, salads and cocktails while you take in views of Yaquina Bay.

Stay: Literature lovers take note: every room at the cozy Sylvia Beach Hotel is inspired by a different author. This internet-free hotel also has a massive library and loft with west-facing windows, perfect for catching glimpses of the ocean between chapters of your favorite tome.

Vibes: Coos Bay is the biggest city on the Oregon Coast, and while it still feels very much like a town, it’s got plenty of great hotels and restaurants within a short distance of top spots for outdoor recreation.

Do: Head up to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (which inspired the Dune book and films) for an OHV adventure. Then make your way south to Shore Acres State Park to wander through a beautifully manicured garden or take in views of waves crashing against massive cliffs.

Eat: Pair beer and seafood with bay views at 7 Devils Waterfront Alehouse or sit down to a Cornish pasty at one of the live-edge tables at The Tin Thistle .

Stay: Spend a night at the whimsical Itty Bitty Inn , a budget-friendly spot with five themed rooms (including a Star Trek Room and an Oregon Trail Room). You can even borrow a cruiser bike and a helmet at no extra cost.

Step 2: Book your accommodations

Budget is a big consideration when figuring out where to stay on the Oregon Coast, and room rates typically skyrocket in the busy July and August peak season. There are plenty of fancy (and spendy) hotels along the coast, many of which have direct beach access, but if you don’t plan to spend much time in your room, you may be better off trading in direct beach access for a simple budget motel or a vacation rental.

Camping is a great option but it’s wildly popular. If you plan to camp (or stay in a yurt) in one of the many Oregon State Parks up and down the coast, it’s a good idea to start looking in the winter — reservations go live six months in advance and summer weekend slots often book up soon after they become available. Find out more about Oregon's seasonal events and prices in our guide to the best time to visit .

Step 3: Pick the best things to do on your summer trip to the Oregon Coast

Cannon Beach on the North Coast is popular among day trippers from Portland , with its compact main street lined with art galleries and cafes. On the south end of town, Haystack Rock is a massive sea stack that doubles as a home for tufted puffins. Bring your binoculars.

A short drive from Newport on the Central Coast, Depoe Bay is the place to go for summertime whale-watching. A group of gray whales live here in the summer, and they’re easy to spot from the picture windows at the Oregon State Parks Whale Watching Center or aboard one of Whale Research EcoExcursions ’ whale-watching cruises.

Oregon summers are a dream for hikers , and the fleeting warm-and-dry season is the perfect time to hike up to the top of Humbug Mountain near Port Orford. The 5.5-mile-long summit hike through groves of massive Douglas fir trees rewards hikers with gorgeous south-facing views of the Pacific Ocean.

Step 4: Find the best places to eat on the Oregon Coast

Seafood lovers will naturally be very happy on the Oregon Coast. You'll find Oregon specialties such as albacore tuna and Dungeness crab at seafood markets from Astoria to Brookings ( Barnacle Bill's Seafood Market in Lincoln City is a local favorite), along with fresh produce galore – much of which is grown in the region – at farmers markets and co-ops all along the coast.

If you’d rather leave the prep to someone else, pick up a charcuterie-and-wine picnic at Chēz in Seaside or try out the famous fried offerings at The Crazy Norwegian's Fish & Chips in Port Orford.

Step 5: Determine how you will get there

The Oregon Coast is a delight for road-trippers, and you really need a car if you want to explore the region. Most people fly into Portland and drive inland on Highway 26, which cuts through the forested Cascade Mountains, ultimately meeting Highway 101 (the Coastal Route) between Cannon Beach and Seaside.

If you’re driving from Washington State , you’ll cross into the Oregon Coast at Astoria. If you’re coming from California , your first taste of the Oregon Coast will be in Brookings, the gateway to the ridiculously gorgeous Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor .

Step 6: Decide what to pack

Even if you plan to visit the Oregon Coast at the peak of the summer season, be prepared for two of the region’s most common features: rain and wind. Sweatshirts and windbreakers are always a must, and while flip-flops are great for transitioning from sand to street, it’s a good idea to always have a pair of comfy, water-resistant shoes with you to keep your toes warm and dry. If you bring a hat, make sure it fits snugly or has a good chin strap if you don’t want to risk it getting swept away in a gust of coastal wind.  

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17 Best Road Trip Stops from Portland To Bend, Oregon

If you’re heading to the Pacific Northwest and you have a weekend to spare, a road trip from Portland to Bend, Oregon should be on your to-do list. This drive is so much fun to do!

Many travelers headed to Bend, OR as their final destination tend to fly into PDX in Portland, OR. From there, the drive from Portland to Bend (or vice versa) can easily be tackled in 3 hours.

But why would you want to make that drive without stopping to see some of the awesome spots, hikes, and sights in between? The drive from Portland to Bend is so scenic.

You’ll pass by various types of scenery, starting with the densely forested atmosphere of the Portland area all the way to the high desert flora and fauna of Central Oregon. 

To help you make the most of your trip, we’re sharing a complete list of our favorite stops to explore along the way from Portland to Bend. So without further ado, let’s dive right into it!

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

ROUTES FROM PORTLAND TO BEND

There are a few routes you could take to get to Bend from Portland (or Portland from Bend), but this list focuses on the stops along these two main routes— taking US-26 all the way down and passing Mount Hood vs. taking I-84 east through the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, then down to US-26.

What’s the difference? Well first off, let’s review what you’ll see along both routes.

• I-84 to US-26 – You’ll be going through the Columbia River Gorge to Hood River, where you’ll then take the 35 down to US-26 E and finally along US-97 S to Bend. This route is longer and more time consuming than the more direct path below.
• US-26 – More of a straight-shot to Bend from Portland, which will save you time and miles on your car. You won’t be passing the Columbia River Gorge or Hood River, but you’ll pass Mount Hood and everything thereafter.

The mileage and duration of your trip will depend on which route you take. If you go with the longer, more scenic route of I-84, you’ll be adding on another 50 miles, but a 50 miles well worth it. The total travel time really depends on how long you stop at each of the pitstops on your itinerary!

I’d recommend going the longer route if you haven’t had the chance to explore the Columbia River Gorge or the town of Hood River yet. If you’ve been blessed to have explored the Columbia River Gorge before, then why not take the US-26 route and check out some new sights along the way?

17 BEST ROAD TRIP STOPS FROM PORTLAND TO BEND

I doubt Portland needs a formal introduction. But if you were so keen to read one — Portland is a bustling city in Oregon and is one of the greenest cities in the world. Portland prides itself on embracing weirdness, which makes this city so fun to explore!

There are tons of quirky neighborhoods to explore, each with its own unique atmosphere and charm. The food truck scene is popping, as are the coffee and craft beer scenes.

If you’re starting (or ending) your road trip in Portland, make sure you have at least three extra days to eat, drink, and explore the city of Portland!

I personally love Portland so much that I opted to live there for a month in an Airbnb during the C-19 days when wfh was mandatory. It was easily some of the most memorable weeks of those crummy years!

With all that said, Portland gets a huge thumbs-up from me. Definitely allocate a couple of days to exploring the city!

MCMENAMINS EDGEFIELD

McMenamins Edgefield is so much more than a historic hotel. This property is 74-acres large and located only 20 minutes away from downtown Portland. Formerly a poor farm during the Great Depression, McMenamins is a wonder to see and explore. It’s so expansive there is even a visitor’s guide and map of the property available to visitors.

Seriously, the estate is huge! You could easily spend a few hours wandering about the extensive gardens (glass of wine or a pint of beer in hand), play golf, visit the glass/pottery shop, distillery, and winery, take a seat and enjoy one of the many bars, eat lunch in the outdoor courtyards, watch a recent-run movie in the theater, listen to live music, and explore the gift shop. Tons of stuff to do!

If you’re a hotel guest here, you can also take advantage of the beautiful soaking pool next to the tea bar.

COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE

The Columbia River Gorge is so beautiful and packed with jaw-dropping waterfalls, overlooks, and hikes that they named it a National Scenic Area. The Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway is actually considered one of the most scenic drives in the country!

Along this 70-mile highway, you will have the chance to see several historic buildings, monuments, fish hatcheries, the Oneonta Gorge, and numerous waterfalls including Latourell Falls, Multnomah Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Shepperd’s Dell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Wahclella Falls, and Fairy Falls. Given recent fires over the years, it’s best to check their website to check for trail closures.

MULTNOMAH FALLS

It’s likely you’ve visited or at least heard of this popular waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge before. If you haven’t, it’s a must-see as you travel along the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway.

It’s a quick stop off the highway and you can walk right up to marvel at the falls without even breaking a sweat. Talk about bang for your buck! You can grab lunch, ice cream, coffee, and other refreshments here as well.

Note: Sadly, during peak tourist season, Multnomah Falls can get very crowded, and there may be a limit on the number of visitors allowed at any given time to manage crowds and ensure visitor safety.

Check the Multnomah Falls website for the most up-to-date updates/conditions. You may need to make reservations to visit.

Continue along the scenic byway running alongside the Columbia River to reach your next stop, the charming town of Hood River. Hood River, also known as the windsurfing capital of the world, hosts a good amount of wineries, breweries, and restaurants.

This is the perfect place to stop for a meal or a cup of coffee. If you’re not feeling hungry, you should still get out of the car to stretch your legs, walk through the town, and peruse the lifestyle/home decor stores and gift shops.

LAVENDER VALLEY

I love this little off-the-road travel attraction! There’s nothing better than visiting a lavender farm during the summer season and attending an annual festival dedicated to ALL things lavender. I mean, talk about unique, right?

At Lavender Valley, you can wander the lovely lavender fields, cut and pick your own lavender, and explore the little gift shop after you’ve enjoyed your stroll through the grounds.

The view of Mt Hood is as intoxicating as its fragrant fields! No lie, the view by far is the best thing here and certainly does not disappoint.

If you’re looking for an alternative, there are other lavender farms in the area including Hood River Lavender Farm.

Address: 5965 Boneboro Rd, Mt Hood, OR 97041

RAMONA FALLS

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the entire Northwest is just a quick hike away on your route from Portland to Bend.  The iconic 7-mile roundtrip hike on Ramona Falls Loop Trail provides stellar views of Mt. Hood and the grand Ramona Falls.

The trail itself is relatively easy, but the hike requires either crossing the Sandy River on fallen logs, rock hopping, or trudging through the river. If river crossings aren’t your thing, maybe skip this stop. It’s quite an adventure and totally worth it when you get to feast your eyes on Ramona Falls flowing down 120 feet of sheer basalt rock.

GOVERNMENT CAMP

Government Camp sounds much more formal than what it is–a home base for people visiting Mount Hood and exploring the national forest that surrounds the area. “Govey,” as the locals call it, is a quaint alpine village that has plenty of eateries, watering holes, and an abundance of small-town charm.

It’s an excellent place to stretch your legs and use the restroom before continuing on your road trip from Portland to Bend!

TIMBERLINE LODGE

As you approach the south side of Mount Hood, take note of the signs for the Timberline Lodge (you’ll be making a left to get there). Timberline Lodge is a magnificent historical mountain lodge, built during the Depression Era. This is yet another great place to grab a bite to eat with a side of awe-inspiring views.

This National Historic Landmark is perhaps most known as the exterior of the Overlook Hotel in Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining . It’s less than 15 minutes from Government Camp and you can expect to spend about 30 minutes to an hour here.

TRILLIUM LAKE

Just 10 minutes south of Government Camp, you’ll find the picturesque Trillium Lake sitting beautifully among the great outdoors. This lake is all about the view–featuring Mount Hood towering overhead nearby. This creates an amazing mirrored view of its snow-capped peaks, especially on a clear day.

If you have some to spare, consider doing the 1.9-mile loop hike around the lake, kayaking/paddling, fishing, or packing a picnic to enjoy here. Since motorboats are not allowed here, you’ll get an even more peaceful, enjoyable experience!

INDIAN HEAD CASINO / WARM SPRINGS INDIAN MUSEUM

A bit further south on the 26 will bring you to the Indian Head Casino as well as the Warm Springs Indian Museum .

Their proximity to each other will allow you to test your luck with slot machines or table games, AND experience the rich history and culture of this region afterward.

This is an awesome stop if (1) you need to stretch your legs and (2) you’re down to weave in some history/education to your road trip.

Visitors of The Museum at Warm Springs will experience firsthand the sounds of ancient songs and languages, the mastery of traditional craftsmen, and the sights of various cultures that make up the Confederated Tribes of The Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon. The collections of the museum are rotated throughout the year.

PETER SKENE OGDEN STATE SCENIC VIEWPOINT

Located just 9 miles north of Redmond, Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint is a cool roadside attraction. This brief stop boasts a dramatic view of the canyon against the Crooked River.  The two sides are connected by historic bridges that create a dramatic glimpse of central Oregon’s geological and historical features.

The parkland was once owned by the Oregon Trunk Railway and was later acquired by the State between 1925 and 1930.  Eventually, the park was named after explorer Peter Skene Ogden, who entered the Crooked River Valley in 1825.

This viewpoint is perfect for photography lovers! Another good reason to stop? There are restrooms and picnic areas in case you need a scenic break that doesn’t involve seeing the inside of your car.

SMITH ROCK STATE PARK

If you enjoy scenic views of towering canyons or rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is the place for you. Rock climbers from all over the country flock to Smith Rock State Park to experience the thousands of climbing routes in the park. Here you’ll find dynamic routes that are ideal for various types of climbing and bouldering.

If climbing isn’t your thing, Smith Rock SP is still worth visiting. It’s great for trail running, hiking, wildlife spotting, and mountain biking as well. If you’re looking for a place to camp, the park also has a walk-in area for tent camping on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pro Tip: Smith Rock State Park is a popular attraction, and with that comes potential challenges with parking, especially during the peak season and on weekends. If you want to beat the crowds, visit on a weekday or try to get there before 8am on weekends. The parking/day-use fee costs $5.

CRESCENT MOON ALPACA RANCH

I added this to the list in hopes that anyone reading this is also in love with alpacas as much as I am. At the alpaca ranch, you’ll get the chance to feed the adorable alpaca as well as enjoy the alpaca boutique. It’s only 8 minutes away from Smith Rock, how can you say no?

It’s a fun place to stop, especially if you love animals or are traveling with children. You can expect to spend 45 minutes to 1 hour here.

We missed this on our last road trip, but we’re definitely making it a priority the next time we road trip to Bend, OR!

Redmond is a hub in the high desert along the 26 with a rejuvenated downtown, a growing beer scene, and lots of recreational activities to enjoy.

Head to Downtown Redmond for a light stroll among fine dining restaurants, boutiques, bookstores, and cafes. You’ll also find a few breweries in Redmond including Kobold, Initiative, Cascade Lakes, and Wild Ride .

For family-friendly fun, check out Splash Park or the ice rink in the heart of the city. Near the airport is the Deschutes Fair & Expo Center , which hosts a wide range of events, concerts, trade shows, automobile shows, and more.

Redmond is also where the Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo is held in August. It’s a big deal, so if you’re planning a road trip during the month of August, try to make this one!

Looking for another high desert town to explore? When you pull into the Old West town of Sisters, OR, you’ll feel like you’ve just been transported back in time.

This friendly little town in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains attracts visitors for its natural beauty as well as annual celebrations like the Sisters Rodeo (June), the Sisters Quilt Show (July) and the Sister Folk Festival (September).

Take a stroll down the main street, hike the nearby trails, and enjoy the Wild West village atmosphere of Sisters.

Welcome to Bend, you made it through your road trip! If you didn’t know, Bend, Oregon is an absolute outdoor haven all year round.

Personally speaking, I am obsessed with Bend. If I was made of money, THIS would be where I would buy a house. Easy decision!

I absolutely love how green and friendly the entire town of Bend is. The plethora of hiking trails, waterfalls , and in-town things to do still steals my heart to this day. (Someone, buy me a house here already!!)

Summers are ideal for hiking, biking, rock climbing, and water sports, while winters are perfect for skiing or snowboarding on Mt. Bachelor. It’s the ultimate land of outdoor adventure, and you can’t forget about the craft beer tasting! Seriously, the sheer amount of fun you can have here is unreal.

There’s a lot to do within the city limits and even more to do outside of them. Check out our full list of 30+ best things to do in Bend here .

WHERE TO STAY IN BEND, OR

We love staying in Bend whenever we get the chance! Our top recommendations include these super-stylish and affordable hotels:

• LOGE Bend – Features stylish, rustic rooms; LOGE provides city bikes that are complimentary for use and offers evening entertainment and a shared kitchen.
• Riverhouse on the Deschutes – A clean, spacious, pet-friendly hotel featuring a restaurant, seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and a bar. Downtown Bend is 5 minutes’ drive away.
• Pine Ridge Inn – Located 2 miles from Downtown Bend, Pine Ridge Inn is just 1 mile away from the Old Mill District. They offer very open and spacious suites with king-sized beds and a sofa bed. They are pet-friendly and offer an awesome free breakfast.

ROAD TRIP PREPARATION: RENTAL CARS

If you don’t have a car or don’t have a reliable car you trust to get you out of Portland and back in one piece, I suggest you pick up a rental car for your road trip.

Need a rental car for your trip? To find cheap rental cars, I recommend using  Rentalcars.com . Their search tool is one of the best I’ve found!

Don’t Forget About The Pass!

A lot of the best adventures around Oregon will require a day-use fee. The better deal? Get yourself a Northwest Pass or an  Interagency Annual Pass . You can easily get one delivered straight to your door. Order one before your trip!

ROAD TRIP PREPARATION: LODGING/HOTELS

If you’re a planner like me, you’re probably going to want to book all your lodging before you leave. I don’t know about you, but the thought of not having a place to stay (or paying an arm and a leg to get a room last-minute) just makes me uneasy.

Be sure to book your lodging before you leave, or as soon as possible really, especially if you’re planning on staying at a specific hotel or yurt that you’ve been eyeing for some time.

If you are more of a spontaneous traveler, get the  HotelTonight   app. HotelTonight offers steeply discounted hotel prices for those last-minute bookings, perfect for spontaneous road trippers.

ROAD TRIP PREPARATION: ROAD CONDITIONS

Right before your trip, check Google Maps or  TripCheck  (by the Oregon Department of Transportation) before you hit the road.

We actually like TripCheck a little bit more for this exercise, because not only does it provide you with live road condition information, but it also gives you live weather alerts as well. There are even live cameras you can check out to see exactly how snowy a mountain pass may be or how bad the traffic is in the city. Though not as detailed as within Oregon, the highway condition information even extends to nearby states!

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Salem-area girls, boys tennis players to watch in 2024 OSAA state tournament

The 2024 OSAA state tennis tournament is set to kick off this weekend, and numerous Salem-area athletes will be in contention after producing big performances at their respective district tournaments.

At the Central Valley Conference district meet last week, Sprague dominated on both the boys and girls sides. The Olympians swept the team titles as Jabin Barkes (boys singles) Lincoln Basl and Jacob Hoda (boys doubles), Tirzah Tarbox (girls singles), and Anna Ainsworth and Drew Fiskum (girls doubles) all won individual titles.

The 6A and 5A state tournaments are slated to begin Thursday at the Tualatin Hills Tennis Center in Beaverton, with the 5A tournament set to shift to the West Hills Racquet and Fitness Club on Saturday. The 4A/3A/2A/1A tournament will begin Thursday at Oregon State University in Corvallis.

Here's a roundup of which local tennis athletes have earned trips to state.

6A boys singles

• Jabin Barkes (Sprague) vs. Yehuda Zaretsky (South Eugene)
• Jett Basl (Sprague) vs. Blake Chandler (South Eugene)
• Noah Leichty (South Salem) vs. (8) Mason Men (Lake Oswego)
• Tait Pederson (Sprague) vs. Liam Mackura (Glencoe)

6A boys doubles

• Lincoln Basl & Jacob Hoda (Sprague) vs. James Cui & Jay Lee (Lake Oswego)
• Kelson Whelan & Jack Roth (McNary) vs. Ty Hendrickson & Oliver Kuerbis (Grant)
• Mason Marsden & Camden Ayres (Sprague) vs. (8) Simon Potter 12 & Miles Potter (Grant)
• Lucas Westfall & Alex Cunningham (South Salem) vs. Nate Ernst & Griffin Chandler (Central Catholic)

6A girls singles

• (7) Tirzah Tarbox (Sprague) vs. Hana Yokoi (Tualatin)
• Sadie Paterson (South Salem) vs. Adeline Backer (Grant)
• Hannah Bradshaw (Sprague) vs. (6) Alexis Uschold (South Medford)
• Nicole Schnurbusch (McNary) vs. Sofia Sorokina (Nelson)

6A girls doubles

• (6) Anna Ainsworth & Drew Fiskum (Sprague) vs. Megan Ameele & Adriana Barbee (Sandy)
• Reese Beyrouty & Elisabeth Nickel (Sprague) vs. Marie Mann & Mika Regner (Westview)
• Andria Yao & Nidhi Nagaraj (South Salem) vs. Ruby Hanson & Emma Tadjedin (Grant)
• Mae Warner & Anna Warner (Sprague) vs. Janessa Pilcher & Amelia Gladbach (Grants Pass)

5A boys singles

• Hannes Zum Felde (Central) vs. (3) Kaiden Harris (La Salle Prep)

5A girls singles

• Audrey Gardner (Silverton) vs. (3) Veronica Miller (Ashland)

4A/3A/2A/1A girls singles

• Laina Atiyeh (Stayton) vs. Ella Li (Oregon Episcopal)

4A/3A/2A/1A girls doubles

• Rachel Suelzle & Kate Withers (Cascade) vs. Leah O'Hern & Sophia Rush (Sisters)

Jarrid Denney covers high school sports and Oregon State for the Statesman Journal. He can be reached at [email protected] or on X @jarrid_denney

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The Ultimate Bend Oregon Itinerary (How To Spend 4 Days In Bend)

Post Summary: The Best 4 Day Bend Oregon Itinerary

Are you already sick of the rain this winter? One of the most common complaints we hear about living in the PNW is the dark and dreary winter months. But that’s actually not the case everywhere!

If you’re looking to escape the rain and gray skies this season, may we introduce you to Bend, Oregon . This adventurous city is located in the PNW’s high desert region, with an average of around 12 inches per year. Bend also has the highest average number of sunny days in the state (sitting at 158!) which makes it a year-round hub for outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, biking, cave exploring, and more!

In this post, we’re telling you exactly how to plan your weekend in Bend, Oregon and pack each day with outdoor adventure, yummy food, and lots of amazing views. Let’s get started!

The Ultimate Bend Oregon Itinerary (4 Days of Adventure!)

This post is sponsored by Visit Bend . All images, writing, and opinions are our own!

How To Get To Bend, Oregon

Bend is located in Central Oregon, near the foot of the Cascades mountains on the east side. If you are an Oregon local, chances are that you are coming from big cities like Portland or Eugene to spend a weekend in Bend!

The easiest way to travel to Bend, Oregon is by car , but there is also an airport in Bend if you REALLY need to fly in. The airport is actually in the neighboring town of Redmond, (code RDM) but it’s only 30 miles from downtown Bend.

Here are some travel times if you are coming by car (to account for in your Bend Oregon itinerary):

• Distance From Portland to Bend: 176 miles – 3 hours and 15 minutes.
• Distance From Eugene to Bend: 128 miles – 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Distance From Seattle to Bend: 330 miles – 6 hours 30 minutes

Note: These drives require driving over mountain passes! If you are planning a trip to Bend in winter, make sure to save Oregon’s TripCheck webpage, and put together your own DIY winter car emergency kit .

Where To Stay In Bend Oregon

There are lots of incredible places to stay in Bend in winter. However, if you are seeking lots of outdoor adventure, we suggest staying at the LOGE Camp in Bend ! LOGE’s motto is “Live Outside, Go Explore” and they help you do exactly that.

Bend’s LOGE Camp provides free bike rentals , has Deschutes National Forest trails literally right outside your door, and Mount Bachelor ski resort is less than a 30-minute drive away.

They are also very remote work-friendly too. We found that the lobby cafe had everything we needed for sending off quick emails or getting a little work done before our adventures. There were tons of collaborative tables to sit at, and if the weather was warmer, we could even sit outside on a clear day.

We noticed that LOGE Camp does a great job of fostering community. There are tons of places to gather with your friends all over the grounds to debrief about your full day of exploring outside. From fire pits, covered awnings, and a patio with a hot tub, there’s so much to choose from!

To book a room at LOGE Camp in Bend, click here !

Bend Oregon Itinerary Day 1

On the first day of your Bend weekend itinerary, it’s a good idea to orient yourself . After you check into your accommodations, we suggest spending a bit of time walking around the heart of the city. There are so many things to do in downtown Bend, but we figured it’s best to start out with a walking tour!

Take a Walk of the Deschutes River Trail

Starting off your Bend Oregon itinerary, you need to check out the Deschutes River Trail in the Old Mill Area. This section runs through the heart of downtown on either side of the river, spanning a 2.7-mile loop . It’s paved and perfect for strollers, scooters, and great for children on bikes.

Take the whole family out for a chilly outing, because there are parks, shops, and restaurants along the way to take a break and warm up. It’s one of the best things to do in downtown Bend that’s outside and in the fresh air! Grab a coffee and treats at some nearby Bend, Oregon bakeries (like Jackson’s Corner or Strictly Organic) and take a stroll!

Looking for the bike trail? The biking-specific section of the Deschutes River Trail is an 11-mile trail beginning at the LOGE Camp and ending at Benham Falls Overlook.

Take a Similar Trip: Walk the Greenbelt Trail in Boise, Idaho

Dinner at Bevel Craft Brewing

Bevel Craft Brewing is owned by Nate and Valerie Doss, who are among the best disc golfers in the world! They spent countless hours visiting breweries all over the world on their disc golf tours and collected a wealth of knowledge about the kind of business they wanted to run.

Their hop-centric microbrewery is certainly noteworthy, but we were especially enamored by the space they created. This outdoor oasis consisted of picnic tables, high tables, fire pits, and yes, a mini-disc golf area!

The resident food trucks surrounded the outdoor area and created a vibe that is absolutely perfect for meeting your friends for dinner and beer .

If we lived in the city, we know this would be our go-to Bend brewery!

Bend Oregon Itinerary Day 2

Hike to Tumalo Falls

Tumalo Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Bend to do any time of year, but it’s especially beautiful in the winter season! Once the first snow falls, the park closes the access road to reach the main parking lot. Therefore, grab your snowshoes or microspikes and get ready for a winter wonderland trail!

The Tumalo Falls via Tumalo Creek Trail is a 6.5-mile round trip from the Skyliner Sno-Park, Make sure to take a Northwest Forest Pass with you, to put on your car’s dashboard. If you are lucky enough to make it all the way to the parking lot, expect to pay a $5 entrance fee at the kiosk.

The trail is widely used in the Oregon winter season , so you can expect snow to be packed down on the trail. It can get slippery, so make sure to wear shoes with good traction, or put on a pair of microspikes to prevent slipping.

Once at the falls, the views are incredible! Stick the lower falls for a view of the cliffs and surrounding forest, or hike up the short trail to see the falls from the top. It’s one of the most iconic things you can add to your Bend Oregon itinerary!

Read More: 15 Incredible Oregon Waterfalls To Explore (+150 Waterfalls in Oregon Bucket List!)

Coffee and Breakfast at Spoken Moto

One of our favorite Bend Oregon coffee shops is hand-down, Spoken Moto !

The ambiance and interior are the perfect blends of industrial and laid-back, perfect for meeting like-minded creatives and makers! Situated in a warehouse building, communal tables and merch are intermixed with vintage motorcycles and bikes. On a nice summer day, you can expect their garage doors to be open, and someone working on or discussing their dope rides!

Another great feature of Spoken Moto is their food truck court right outside! Come during any time of day for some good grub to go along with your coffee. It’s our one-stop-shop to fuel up before another adventurous day exploring Bend.

Are you camping in Bend Oregon? Here are 6 ways to make coffee while camping.

Visit The High Desert Museum

If you’re visiting during the colder months, winter activities in Bend Oregon don’t necessarily have to involve snow! Stay inside, stay warm, and have fun at the High Desert Museum ! Built-in 1982, this 135-acre complex south of Bend has an abundance of ways to learn about the high desert environment in Eastern Oregon and beyond.

From watching playful sea otters to discovering the exploration and settlements of the West, this museum has something for everyone . We personally like to spend time in museums during the first days of our trips. This way, we can learn about the geography of the area, the history of the communities, and educate ourselves on the unique conservation efforts surrounding outdoor activities.

The High Desert Museum has summer hours (9 am-5 pm) and winter hours (10 am-4 pm). General admission is between $14-$17 depending on the time of year you visit.

This is one of the coolest things to do in Bend with kids because they have shows with live animals, a live-action historic village, and lots of interesting exhibits!

Dinner At Wild Rose Thai

According to our readers and followers, one of the most highly recommended restaurants in Bend was dinner at Wild Rose Thai ! You won’t find any Pad Thai here – they specialize in Northern Thai cuisine and encourage you to discover new and unique dishes!

Some of our favorites are the Sweet Sausage Fried Rice, Kabocha Curry, and Sukiyaki. It was a perfect blend of flavors from creamy coconut milk to spicy chili, and lots of yummy noodles. This place is quite popular, especially on the weekend. We highly recommend that you make a reservation to secure your table in advance!

Bend Oregon Itinerary Day 3

Hike Around Smith Rock State Park

What’s a Bend Oregon itinerary without a stop at Smith Rock State Park ?

If you like a good mix of hiking, climbing, photography, and simply some good ‘ole exploring, you’ve gotta visit!

Take the short but VERY steep Misery Ridge trail to the top for some epic view. For a more meandering stroll, check out the 2.8-mile Wolf Tree Trail , which leads you through a quieter section of the gorge.

Keep your eyes peeled for river otters or herons in this deep canyon!

Is Smith Rock too crowded for your liking? Take the alternative route to Gray Butte Trail . It’s to the far west of Smith Rock, and on USFS/BLM land. It provides great views of the park’s iconic peaks, without the traditional masses of hikers.

Hiking around Smith Rock State Park is one of the most popular things to do in Bend, Oregon ! To explore with fewer crowds, we recommend coming in the morning, or if you can, visit on weekdays.

Breakfast At The Sparrow Bakery

No trip to Central Oregon is complete without trying The Sparrow Bakery’s famous Ocean Rolls ! Stop by this iconic Bend Oregon bakery for some made-from-scratch pastries, delicious meals, and good company. This is a great place to meet friends for brunch before your next big adventure.

Take an Adventure With Wanderlust Tours

Wanderlust Tours is a company in Bend that takes explorers on half-day journeys in Bend, Sunriver, Sisters, and surrounding areas. From snowshoeing near Mt Bachelor in the winter to canoe paddling along the Cascades Lakes Scenic Byway in the summer, there’s an adventure waiting for practically everyone !

Their naturalist-led tours are incredibly informative, and you return from your trip having deep knowledge and respect of the area. We were lucky to join them for a cave tour during our 4 days in Bend, Oregon! (More on that below.)

Wanderlust Tours does a great job of offering a variety of adventures and we already have a shortlist of ones we want to book when we create another Bend Oregon itinerary. On our list next is the Prohibition Tour (where they tour cave locations that were used to illegally distill alcohol in the caves!) and a Cascade Lakes canoe tour in the summertime.

Explore Boyd Cave

During our Bend weekend itinerary, we explored Boyd Cave with Wanderlust Tours. Boyd Cave is one of the few public Bend, Oregon caves that anyone can explore free of charge and without a permit!

We highly recommend either booking a trip with Wanderlust or planning your own adventure. Either way, make sure to bring a helmet, 2-3 sources of light, and wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty! The cave eventually gets too small for humans to pass through, but you can spend a good two hours exploring the cave and reaching the end.

Be prepared for a bit of climbing around big rocks, and banging your head on narrow rocks jutting out from the ceiling. (Hence, the helmet suggestion) It’s a great time, and an excellent spot to take photos as well!

Note: Because this is a public cave, there is a much higher chance of spotting trash, cans, and graffiti. If you want to volunteer your time, Wanderlust Tours runs cave cleanups , where you help keep them free of trash and get to explore the cave at the same time! Inquire with the Wanderlust team about how you can get involved with these efforts to keep Bend caves clean and accessible. 🙂

Other Bend Oregon caves to explore: (check to see if your desired cave requires special entry permission!)

• Redmond Caves
• Hidden Forest Cave
• Skeleton Cave

Plan Some Stops Along The Bend Ale Trail

If you love beer, you’re going to LOVE Bend! One of the most fun things to do in Bend is planning some stops along the Bend Ale Trail .

The Bend Ale Trail is an at-your-own pace beer tour, showcasing the best brewers and craft beers in the city. You can download the app to track your progress or pick up a physical passport book at the Bend Visitors Center .

Make sure to download a Bend Oregon breweries map too before you go. (And have a designated driver of course!)

Some suggestions to enjoy the libations in the city:

• Go to BrewFest in May (The Bend Oregon beer festival)
• Take a brewery tour – like the Deschutes Brewery Bend Tasting Room
• Try the tasting room at Crux Fermentation Project

Bend Oregon Itinerary Day 4

Grab Coffee at Lone Pine Roaster

One of the best Bend Oregon coffee roasters (in our humble opinion) is Lone Pine Coffee Roasters. We met someone during our weekend trip and they recommended the downtown Bend location, and we couldn’t get enough of it!

Lone Pine Roaster’s Downtown location is incredibly beautiful, with plants atop practically every counter, shelf, and floor space! It felt like a little green oasis in the middle of town. This is a great spot to visit with friends, with lots of conversation corners and cozy seating.

Visit Steelhead Falls

Looking for an Oregon waterfall hike with a little bit fewer crowds than Tumalo Falls? Might we suggest the short and sweet hike to Steelhead Falls ! It’s located along the Deschutes River, on land owned by the Bureau of Land Management. The trail to Steelhead Falls is only a half-mile from the parking lot, making it a great trail for kids or a quick stop to stretch your legs after a long drive.

This is also a great outdoor activity for a number of reasons. If you’re looking for free Bend, Oregon campsites , this is an excellent spot for an overnight stay! Campsites are first-come-first-serve, open all year round, AND pets are allowed! Great views, free stay, and you can bring Rover? We know we’re camping in Bend next time we visit!

More Outdoor Activities In Bend Oregon

Looking for more things to do in Bend, Oregon ? If you have a few more days to spare (say, you’re planning 1 week in Bend, Oregon!) here are some unique things to do in the area: (including day trips from Bend!)

• Explore Newberry National Volcanic Monument
• Drive the Cascades Lakes Scenic Byway
• Oregon Badlands
• Hike Pilot Butte in the city
• Visit Paulina Lake and Paulina Hot Springs
• Looking for things to do in Bend in winter? Head up to Mount Bachelor. From backcountry skiing in Bend Oregon to the Snowblast Tubing hill there’s a snow activity for everyone!

Looking for more amazing food in Bend, Oregon?

Here are some delicious places to check out and add to your Bend Oregon itinerary:

Great Restaurants in Downtown Bend :

• 900 Wall (Downtown Bend)
• Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails
• Anthony’s PNW Cuisine (Located in the Old Mill District)
• Miyagi Ramen

Incredible Coffee Shops In Bend :

• Spoken Moto
• Lone Pine Coffee Roasters
• Thump Coffee
• Looney Bean Bend
• Wild Roots Coffee House

*Snapshot* 4 Day Bend Oregon Itinerary

Here is a sample Bend Oregon itinerary to get you started dreaming up the perfect weekend getaway!

• Check into your Hotel
• Deschutes River Trail
• Brewery Dinner at Bevel Craft Brewing
• Tumalo Falls Sunrise Hike
• Breakfast and Coffee at Spoken Moto
• High Desert Museum
• Lunch At Miyagi Ramen
• Dinner at Wild Rose
• Hike around Smith Rock State Park
• Breakfast at Sparrow Bakery
• Go on an adventure with Wanderlust Tours
• Visit Crux Brewery For Dinner (or any Bend, Oregon breweries!)
• Visit Steelhead Falls for Sunrise
• Grab Coffee and Breakfast at Lone Pine Roasters

What are some of your favorite ways to spend 4 days in Bend? Share them in the comments below to add to our Bend Oregon itinerary!

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Memorial Day weekend air travel may be the highest in nearly 20 years

• Updated: May. 25, 2024, 3:46 p.m. |
• Published: May. 25, 2024, 3:39 p.m.

Travelers walk through Salt Lake City International Airport Friday, May 24, 2024, in Salt Lake City. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer) AP

• The Associated Press

By Jordan Fitzgerald Bloomberg News (TNS)

Roshni Sharma is one of the many American travelers opting against the traditional road trip this Memorial Day weekend and choosing instead to fly.

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