oregon places to visit in summer

16 Destinations Everyone In Oregon Needs To Visit This Summer

Tessa Metcalf

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Summer is a magical time in Oregon. Soak up the sunshine at these 16 jaw-dropping destinations in Oregon that are perfect for a summer day trip or weekend getaway.

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Oregon is an incredibly beautiful place, especially in the summertime.

Want to find out about some more awesome places to explore this summer? Check out these 11 incredible places that everyone in Oregon should explore at least once .

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Explore Oregon

The 50 Best Places to Visit in Oregon

By Visit Oregon

Feb 16, 2024 / 4:44 am

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1. crater lake national park, 2. columbia river gorge, 3. multnomah falls, 4. portland, 5. oregon coast, 6. haystack rock, 7. mount hood, 8. powell’s city of books, 9. oregon zoo, 10. willamette valley wine country, 11. smith rock state park, 12. astoria, 13. silver falls state park, 14. oregon shakespeare festival, 15. portland japanese garden, 16. hood river, 17. oregon coast aquarium, 18. astoria column, 19. deschutes brewery, 20. cannon beach, 21. portland art museum, 22. oregon museum of science and industry (omsi):, 23. umpqua hot springs, 24. oregon dunes national recreation area, 25. tillamook creamery, 26. mount bachelor, 27. heceta head lighthouse, 28. cascade lakes scenic byway, 29. oregon garden, 30. tamolitch blue pool, 31. cape perpetua scenic area, 32. tillamook air museum, 33. columbia river maritime museum, 34. oregon state capitol, 35. pittock mansion, 36. oregon caves national monument, 37. portland farmers market, 38. hood river fruit loop, 39. oneonta gorge, 40. oregon coast trail, 41. oregon film museum, 42. astoria riverfront trolley, 43. wooden shoe tulip farm, 44. oregon historical society museum, 45. portland saturday market, 46. fort stevens state park, 47. john day fossil beds national monument, 48. portland international rose test garden, 49. oregon coast scenic railroad, 50. oregon garden brewfest, are you considering relocating to oregon.

• February 16, 2024

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10 Best Places To Visit In Summer in Oregon USA

Introduction Welcome to Oregon, a land of boundless beauty and endless adventure. As summer unfolds its vibrant tapestry across the landscape, Oregon emerges as a haven for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. From the rugged coastline to the majestic mountains, Oregon offers a plethora of attractions that showcase its natural splendor and cultural richness. In this guide, we’ll embark on a journey to explore the Best Places To Visit In Summer in Oregon , from the iconic landmarks of the coast to the hidden gems nestled in its wilderness. Additionally, we’ll delve into the Best Places to Stay in Oregon , ensuring that every traveler finds a comfortable retreat amidst the state’s diverse landscapes and vibrant communities. Join us as we uncover the magic of Oregon, where every moment is an invitation to adventure and discovery.

1. Coastal Escapes: Oregon's Hidden Gems

Coastal Escapes: Oregon’s Hidden Gems” beckons travelers to explore the stunning 360-mile coastline teeming with natural wonders and quaint seaside towns. Cannon Beach stands out with its iconic Haystack Rock and miles of sandy shores, while Ecola State Park offers panoramic views and exhilarating hiking trails. Further south, the picturesque town of Newport boasts the renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium, where visitors can marvel at marine life and learn about coastal ecosystems.

For a more secluded experience, adventurous travelers can venture to Cape Kiwanda and Cape Lookout, where towering cliffs and pristine beaches await. Meanwhile, the charming fishing village of Astoria offers a blend of history and maritime culture, with attractions like the Astoria Column and the Columbia River Maritime Museum.

Whether strolling along windswept beaches, exploring tide pools, or indulging in fresh seafood at waterfront eateries, Oregon’s coastal escapes promise unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and explorers alike. These hidden gems invite visitors to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of the Pacific Northwest coastline, where every sunset is a masterpiece and every wave whispers tales of the sea.

2. Exploring the Cascade Wonderland: Summer Adventures

Exploring the Cascade Wonderland in Oregon during the summer unveils a myriad of thrilling adventures amidst its majestic peaks and lush forests. Mount Hood stands as a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts, offering world-class hiking trails, scenic drives, and even year-round skiing on its glacier-capped slopes. Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, mesmerizes visitors with its pristine blue waters and stunning vistas, inviting exploration via hiking trails, boat tours, or scenic drives along the rim.

For adrenaline seekers, the Cascade Range presents opportunities for whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River, with thrilling rapids and breathtaking scenery around every bend. Additionally, the region boasts prime spots for rock climbing, mountain biking, and backpacking, catering to adventurers of all skill levels. Meanwhile, the lush forests of the Cascade Wonderland are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering glimpses of black bears, elk, and bald eagles amidst ancient trees and meandering streams.

Whether scaling towering peaks, traversing verdant valleys, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, exploring the Cascade Wonderland promises unforgettable summer adventures for all who venture into its breathtaking landscapes.

3. Urban Oasis: Portland's Summertime Delights

Portland, Oregon, transforms into an urban oasis during the summer months, offering a plethora of activities and attractions to delight visitors. The city’s vibrant cultural scene comes alive with festivals, outdoor concerts, and street fairs, providing endless entertainment options for all ages. Iconic landmarks such as Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, beckon book lovers to get lost in literary treasures. The International Rose Test Garden, nestled in the scenic Washington Park, showcases over 10,000 rose bushes in full bloom, offering a feast for the senses. For a tranquil escape, the Portland Japanese Garden provides a serene retreat with meticulously landscaped gardens and traditional tea ceremonies.

Food enthusiasts will relish in Portland’s renowned culinary scene, with an abundance of farm-to-table restaurants, food carts, and artisanal markets showcasing the region’s freshest ingredients. Exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods reveals a tapestry of flavors, from gourmet dining in the Pearl District to eclectic food carts in Southeast Portland.

Additionally, Portland’s extensive network of bike paths and parks encourages outdoor exploration, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking along the Willamette River and Forest Park. Whether immersing oneself in the city’s vibrant arts scene, savoring culinary delights, or simply enjoying the beauty of its natural surroundings, Portland offers a wealth of summertime delights waiting to be discovered.

4. Rivers, Lakes, and Waterfalls: Oregon's Aquatic Wonders

Oregon’s aquatic wonders beckon adventurers to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of its rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. The Columbia River Gorge stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur, boasting a plethora of majestic waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, plunging 620 feet in a dramatic cascade. Visitors can explore the scenic trails that wind through lush forests, offering panoramic views of the gorge and its breathtaking waterfalls.

For those seeking tranquility, the pristine waters of Crater Lake offer a mesmerizing sight. Formed within the caldera of Mount Mazama, this deepest lake in the United States mesmerizes with its intense blue hue and sheer cliffs. Activities such as hiking, boating, and scenic drives around the rim provide ample opportunities to marvel at its beauty.

Additionally, the Deschutes River presents thrilling opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Whether rafting through Class IV rapids, fly fishing for native trout, or kayaking through scenic canyons, the Deschutes promises unforgettable adventures.

Furthermore, Oregon’s lakes, including the serene Sparks Lake and the picturesque Waldo Lake, offer idyllic settings for swimming, fishing, and picnicking amid stunning alpine landscapes. With its abundance of aquatic wonders, Oregon invites visitors to dive into a world of natural splendor and outdoor adventure.

5. Historic Charm: Quaint Towns and Landmarks to Visit

In Oregon, historic charm emanates from quaint towns steeped in rich heritage and adorned with iconic landmarks. Jacksonville, founded during the Gold Rush era, boasts impeccably preserved Victorian architecture lining its picturesque streets. Visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s history by exploring the historic Britt Gardens or taking a guided tour of the Beekman House Museum.

Ashland, renowned for its annual Shakespeare Festival, exudes a vibrant cultural atmosphere with its array of theaters, galleries, and artisan shops. The town’s Lithia Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of downtown, offers scenic trails and tranquil ponds ideal for leisurely strolls.

Additionally, Oregon City, the state’s first incorporated city, showcases its pioneer past through attractions like the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and the historic Oregon City Elevator, which provides panoramic views of the Willamette Falls.

Cottage Grove’s charming covered bridges, including the iconic Chambers Railroad Bridge, offer a glimpse into Oregon’s transportation history, while the town’s Main Street boasts antique stores and cozy cafes.

Exploring these quaint towns and landmarks allows visitors to step back in time and experience the timeless allure of Oregon’s historic charm.

6. Vineyards and Valleys: Oregon's Wine Country Escapes

Nestled within picturesque valleys, Oregon’s wine country offers a serene escape for oenophiles and nature lovers alike. The Willamette Valley, renowned for its cool climate and fertile soil, is the heart of Oregon’s wine industry, particularly celebrated for its world-class Pinot Noir. Visitors can embark on scenic wine trails, winding through rolling hills adorned with vineyards and tasting rooms. Notable wineries such as Domaine Serene, Archery Summit, and Sokol Blosser beckon with exquisite vintages and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

In the Rogue Valley, further south, a warmer climate nurtures a diverse array of grape varietals, from robust Cabernet Sauvignon to crisp Viognier. Here, visitors can explore charming wineries like Troon Vineyard and Del Rio Vineyards, where they can enjoy tastings, vineyard tours, and farm-to-table dining experiences.

Beyond the wine, Oregon’s wine country offers a tapestry of experiences, from hot air balloon rides over vineyards to leisurely picnics amid scenic landscapes. With its blend of natural beauty and culinary delights, Oregon’s wine country promises an unforgettable escape for wine enthusiasts seeking to savor the essence of the Pacific Northwest.

7. Wild Adventures: National Parks and Wilderness Areas

Oregon’s national parks and wilderness areas offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the state’s natural beauty. The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, stretching along the coast, presents a unique landscape of towering sand dunes perfect for ATV riding, sandboarding, and hiking. Further inland, the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area boasts North America’s deepest river gorge, where visitors can embark on thrilling whitewater rafting expeditions, scenic boat tours, and rugged backcountry hikes.

Crater Lake National Park, renowned for its stunningly blue waters and dramatic caldera, beckons adventurers with opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing amidst pristine old-growth forests. Meanwhile, the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument showcases the ecological diversity of the Cascade Range, with its rugged peaks, lush meadows, and abundant wildlife.

For those seeking solitude and serenity, the Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests offer vast expanses of wilderness to explore, from remote mountain lakes to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. Whether it’s summiting a peak, paddling a pristine lake, or simply soaking in the tranquility of nature, Oregon’s national parks and wilderness areas promise unforgettable adventures for nature lovers of all ages.

8. Cultural Expeditions: Museums and Arts Festivals in Oregon

Cultural expeditions in Oregon offer a rich tapestry of museums and arts festivals that celebrate the state’s diverse heritage and creative spirit. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), located in Portland, provides hands-on exhibits exploring science, technology, and natural history, captivating visitors of all ages. The Portland Art Museum showcases an extensive collection of artwork spanning various periods and styles, including contemporary and Native American art.

Meanwhile, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland stands as a cornerstone of the state’s cultural landscape, presenting world-class theater performances each summer. This renowned festival features works by Shakespeare alongside contemporary plays, attracting theater enthusiasts from around the globe.

Moreover, annual events like the Oregon Country Fair, held near Eugene, offer a vibrant celebration of arts, music, and alternative culture. With its colorful array of artisans, performers, and workshops, the fair provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Oregon’s creative community.

Whether exploring the interactive exhibits of OMSI, admiring masterpieces at the Portland Art Museum, or reveling in the theatrical brilliance of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, cultural expeditions in Oregon promise unforgettable experiences that enrich the mind and inspire the soul.

9. Thrill Seeker's Paradise: Outdoor Activities and Sports in Oregon's Summer

Thrill Seeker’s Paradise: Outdoor Activities and Sports in Oregon’s Summer caters to adventurers craving excitement amidst Oregon’s natural wonders. Embark on a heart-pounding journey with world-class surfing along the Oregon coast, where towering waves and stunning scenery collide to create an unforgettable experience. For those seeking adrenaline-fueled pursuits inland, Bend’s Phil’s Trail Complex offers exhilarating mountain biking trails, challenging riders with rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas.

Delve into the realm of rock climbing in Oregon’s diverse landscapes, from the towering cliffs of Smith Rock State Park to the volcanic crags of Central Oregon. Paragliding enthusiasts can soar through the skies above the Columbia River Gorge, while zip-lining adventures provide a thrilling perspective of Oregon’s lush forests and cascading waterfalls.

Additionally, whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River promises an adrenaline rush as you navigate through exhilarating rapids and scenic canyons. Whether it’s hiking to hidden waterfalls, exploring lava caves, or bungee jumping off bridges, Oregon’s summer offers an array of outdoor activities to satisfy even the most daring thrill seekers.

10. Discovering Mitchell: Unforgettable Stops in This Charming Town

Painted hills: a geological masterpiece in mitchell.

Nestled near Mitchell, Oregon, the Painted Hills stand as a geological marvel, showcasing vibrant hues of red, gold, and black. These striking colors are the result of millions of years of geological processes, including volcanic activity, shifting climate patterns, and the deposition of ancient sediments. Visitors can explore the Painted Hills Unit within the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, marveling at the intricate layers of colored clay and fossilized remains embedded within them. Trails wind through the otherworldly landscape, offering breathtaking viewpoints and opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture the beauty of this natural wonder.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument: Ancient Treasures in Mitchell

Encompassing over 14,000 acres near Mitchell, the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a treasure trove of ancient fossils and geological wonders. The monument is divided into three units: the Painted Hills, the Sheep Rock, and the Clarno Units, each offering unique insights into Oregon’s prehistoric past. Visitors can explore interpretive exhibits, guided tours, and scenic overlooks to learn about the diverse array of plant and animal species that once roamed this region millions of years ago. The fossil beds provide scientists with invaluable clues about ancient ecosystems and evolutionary history, making it a fascinating destination for both amateur and professional paleontologists alike.

Mitchell’s Historic Downtown: Exploring the Charm of a Small Town

Step back in time and discover the historic charm of Mitchell’s downtown area, where rustic storefronts and century-old buildings evoke a sense of nostalgia and community spirit. Stroll along Main Street and browse quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries offering homemade treats and artisanal goods. Don’t miss the iconic Mitchell Schoolhouse, a beautifully preserved landmark that serves as a reminder of the town’s rich heritage. Visitors can also explore the Mitchell Stage Stop, a historic inn dating back to the pioneer era, and learn about the town’s role in Oregon’s frontier history.

Ochoco National Forest: Outdoor Adventures Near Mitchell

Just a short drive from Mitchell lies the vast expanse of the Ochoco National Forest, a pristine wilderness teeming with outdoor recreational opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike along scenic trails, fish in crystal-clear streams, and camp beneath the stars in designated campgrounds and backcountry areas. The forest is also home to abundant wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds of prey, making it a popular destination for wildlife viewing and nature photography. Whether you’re seeking solitude amid towering ponderosa pines or adrenaline-fueled adventures, the Ochoco National Forest offers something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Sutton Mountain Wilderness: Hiking and Wildlife in Mitchell’s Backyard

For those craving a more rugged outdoor experience, the Sutton Mountain Wilderness beckons with its rugged terrain and pristine landscapes. Situated just east of Mitchell, this designated wilderness area encompasses over 20,000 acres of remote wilderness, offering hikers and backpackers the chance to explore untamed beauty and solitude. Trails wind through rugged canyons, up rocky ridges, and past hidden springs, providing opportunities to encounter elusive wildlife such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, and golden eagles. With its breathtaking vistas and rugged charm, Sutton Mountain Wilderness offers a true wilderness adventure right in Mitchell’s backyard.

Exploring Oregon’s Finest: The Best Places to Stay

Oregon, a state renowned for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and boundless outdoor adventures, welcomes travelers with open arms year-round. Whether you’re seeking a cozy retreat nestled in the heart of a charming small town or a luxurious resort overlooking the rugged coastline, Oregon offers an array of accommodations to suit every taste and preference. From boutique hotels to rustic cabins, here’s a guide to some of the best places to stay in Oregon, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

1. Portland: Urban Chic and Cultural Delights

  As Oregon’s largest city, Portland boasts a dynamic mix of urban sophistication and laid-back charm, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining, and cultural experiences. From boutique hotels in the trendy Pearl District to historic properties in the heart of downtown, Portland offers a range of accommodations to suit every style and budget.

For a luxurious stay, indulge in the amenities of the Sentinel, a historic hotel located in downtown Portland. Featuring elegant rooms, upscale dining options, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city skyline, the Sentinel provides a sophisticated retreat for discerning travelers.

For a more intimate experience, consider booking a room at the Ace Hotel Portland, a boutique property known for its eclectic decor, locally sourced amenities, and vibrant social atmosphere. Situated in the heart of the bustling West End district, the Ace Hotel offers easy access to Portland’s top attractions, including Powell’s City of Books and the Portland Art Museum.

2. Cannon Beach: Coastal Tranquility and Natural Beauty

Nestled along Oregon’s stunning coastline, Cannon Beach enchants visitors with its pristine beaches, iconic sea stacks, and charming seaside village atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking a cozy beachfront cottage or a luxurious oceanfront resort, Cannon Beach offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.

For a quintessential Cannon Beach experience, book a stay at the Stephanie Inn, a luxurious oceanfront hotel renowned for its elegant accommodations, gourmet dining, and personalized service. Situated just steps from the beach, the Stephanie Inn offers breathtaking views of Haystack Rock and the Pacific Ocean, providing the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat.

For a more secluded experience, consider renting a beachfront cottage or vacation home along Cannon Beach’s picturesque coastline. Properties like the Ocean Lodge and the Tolovana Inn offer spacious accommodations with private balconies or patios, allowing guests to soak in the stunning ocean views and serene surroundings.

3. Bend: Outdoor Adventures and Mountain Majesty

Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon’s high desert, Bend offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and whitewater rafting. Whether you’re seeking a cozy cabin in the woods or a luxurious resort with world-class amenities, Bend has accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.

For a luxurious mountain retreat, book a stay at the Brasada Ranch, a luxurious resort located just outside of Bend. Situated on 1,800 acres of pristine high desert landscape, Brasada Ranch offers upscale accommodations, gourmet dining, and a wide range of recreational activities, including golf, horseback riding, and spa treatments.

For a more rustic experience, consider renting a cabin or vacation home in the nearby town of Sisters, where you can enjoy easy access to the area’s top outdoor attractions, including the Three Sisters Wilderness Area and the Deschutes National Forest. Properties like Black Butte Ranch and FivePine Lodge offer cozy accommodations with modern amenities, allowing guests to relax and unwind after a day of outdoor adventure.

4. Hood River: Windsurfing Mecca and Scenic Splendor

Situated along the banks of the Columbia River Gorge, Hood River is renowned for its world-class windsurfing, scenic beauty, and vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re seeking a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown or a cozy bed and breakfast overlooking the river, Hood River offers accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.

For a stylish urban retreat, book a stay at the Hood River Hotel, a historic property located in the heart of downtown Hood River. Featuring stylish accommodations, locally sourced dining options, and easy access to the area’s top attractions, including the Hood River Waterfront Park and the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, the Hood River Hotel provides the perfect base for exploring this vibrant river town.

For a more intimate experience, consider booking a room at one of Hood River’s charming bed and breakfasts, such as the Old Parkdale Inn or the Husum Highlands Bed and Breakfast. Situated amidst the region’s stunning natural beauty, these cozy accommodations offer personalized service, homemade breakfasts, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay in Hood River.

5. Ashland: Cultural Riches and Theatrical Splendor

Nestled in the foothills of the Siskiyou Mountains, Ashland is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic dining, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a historic inn in the heart of downtown or a secluded retreat surrounded by nature, Ashland offers accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.

For a luxurious stay, book a room at the Lithia Springs Resort, a boutique property located just minutes from downtown Ashland. Situated amidst lush gardens and natural hot springs, Lithia Springs Resort offers upscale accommodations, gourmet dining, and a wide range of wellness amenities, including spa treatments and yoga classes.

For a more intimate experience, consider staying at one of Ashland’s charming bed and breakfasts, such as the McCall House or the Country Willows Inn. Featuring cozy accommodations, homemade breakfasts, and personalized service, these historic properties offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, allowing guests to experience the true essence of Ashland’s small-town charm.

6. Painted Hills Vacation Rental Cottage and Retreat: A Tranquil Oasis in Mitchell, Oregon

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Mitchell, Oregon, the Painted Hills Vacation Rental Cottage and Retreat offers travelers a tranquil oasis in the heart of Oregon’s stunning countryside. Surrounded by the vibrant hues of the Painted Hills Unit within the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, this charming cottage provides the perfect base for exploring one of Oregon’s most iconic natural wonders.

The Painted Hills Vacation Rental Cottage and Retreat is situated just a short drive from the entrance to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, allowing guests easy access to hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and interpretive exhibits that showcase the region’s rich geological history. Whether you’re marveling at the intricate layers of colored clay, spotting fossils embedded within the rock formations, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the landscape, the Painted Hills offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

• The cottage itself is a cozy retreat, featuring comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and rustic charm. With a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, and private outdoor patio, guests can relax and unwind in the comfort of their own space after a day of adventure in the Painted Hills. With stunning views of the surrounding countryside from every window, the cottage provides a peaceful sanctuary where guests can reconnect with nature and rejuvenate their spirits.
• In addition to its proximity to the Painted Hills, the cottage is also conveniently located near other attractions in the Mitchell area, including the Sutton Mountain Wilderness, the Ochoco National Forest, and the historic downtown district. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or simply a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Painted Hills Vacation Rental Cottage and Retreat offers the perfect escape for travelers looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of Mitchell, Oregon, and its surrounding landscapes.

Related Blog:  What are the Benefits of Vacation Rental by Owner in Oregon?

Conclusion As we bid farewell to our exploration of Oregon’s diverse wonders, it’s evident that the state is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. From the stunning coastal escapes to the majestic mountain vistas, from the vibrant urban scenes to the tranquil wilderness, Oregon offers something for every traveler. Whether seeking the best places to visit in summer in Oregon or searching for the best places to stay in Oregon this remarkable state captivates with its natural beauty, rich history, and boundless opportunities for adventure. As we cherish the memories of our journey through Oregon’s hidden treasures, let’s carry with us the spirit of exploration and appreciation for the extraordinary landscapes and communities that make this state truly exceptional.

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

There’s a lot to love about Oregon.

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

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

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

Would you enjoy a stroll through renowned art museums?

There are many amazing things to do in Oregon.

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

Table of Contents

1. Portland Japanese Garden

Randall Runtsch / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

The architecture is inspired by temples and traditional Minka houses.

Lanterns light the walking paths.

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

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

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

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

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

2. Thor’s Well

Jakub Skyta Photography / Shutterstock

You’ve never seen a sinkhole like this one.

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

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

What is Thor’s Well?

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

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

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

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

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

Just don’t get too close!

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

3. Oregon Coast Aquarium

steve estvanik / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Rimsky-Korsakoffee House

Marie / flickr

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

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

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

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

The menu is also a swerve.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Terwilliger Hot Springs

TSLPhoto / Shutterstock

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

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

Clothing is optional here!

Six pools are separated by rock arrangements along the river.

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

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

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

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

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

6. National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

Rick Obst / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Crater Lake National Park

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

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

Its biggest draw is Crater Lake.

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

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

Sightseeing is also popular at the park.

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

Are you traveling to Oregon in the winter?

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

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

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

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

Address:  Oregon, United States

8. Cherryfest

Cherryfest NW

Are you headed to Oregon in the summertime?

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

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

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

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

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

What are some fun things to do at Cherryfest?

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

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

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

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

9. Crux Fermentation Project

Joshua Rainey Photography / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. John Day Fossil Beds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Powell’s Books

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort

Written In Silver Visuals / Shutterstock

Anyone can stay in a resort.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Mount Hood

Josemaria Toscano / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Sea Lion Caves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. North Mississippi Avenue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stop by North Mississippi Avenue.

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

16. Wildlife Safari

Tami Freed / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Mount Jefferson

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Mount Jefferson isn’t for the faint of heart.

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

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

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

Your first test will be getting there.

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

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

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

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

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

If so, Mount Jefferson is waiting.

18. Wanderlust Tours

Wanderlust Tours

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

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

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

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

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

Wanderlust Tours can provide all of these experiences and more.

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

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

You just have to pick up the phone and call!

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

19. Willamette Valley

Steven Madow / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks

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

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

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

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

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

– Cape Disappointment State Park – Fort Columbia State Park

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

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

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

21. Bridgeport Village

ARTYOORAN / Shutterstock

Shop ’til you drop at Bridgeport Village .

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

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

Fairy lights are draped over the rooftops.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Kam Wah Chung and Company Museum

Max Rae / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Cannon Beach

Hrach Hovhannisyan / Shutterstock

You’ve already seen Cannon Beach .

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

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

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

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

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

Unleash your inner vampire with a trip to Cannon Beach.

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

Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110, United States

24. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. Dee Wright Observatory

Eponaleah / Shutterstock

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

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

It’s made of lava stones.

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure

Brocreative / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

Get your heart pumping with Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure.

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

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

27. Voodoo Doughnut

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. Kite Festival

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy a unique event with the annual Kite Festival.

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

29. Olallie Lake Resort

Olallie Lake Resort

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

30. Tamastslikt Cultural Institute

Tamastslikt Cultural Institute

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

31. Fort Stevens State Park

Thye-Wee Gn / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

Tours are also a popular pastime.

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

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

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

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

32. The Grotto

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

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

What makes The Grotto so special?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

33. Darlingtonia State Natural Site

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. Newport

B Brown / Shutterstock

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

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

Seafood joints are on every corner.

Lighthouses are still in operation.

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

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

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

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

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

35. Multnomah Falls

f11photo / Shutterstock

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

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

You can visit it at any time of year!

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

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

Another nice feature of Multnomah Falls is the bridge.

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

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

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

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

36. Captain George Flavel House Museum

Sveta Imnadze / Shutterstock

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

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

Heavy fabrics decorate ornate furnishings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. Enchanted Forest

Enchanted Forest

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

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

It gets its name from a vivid storybook theme.

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

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

There are light shows and comedy theaters.

There are water slides, bumper cars and haunted houses.

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

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

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

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

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

38. Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

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

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

The main attraction of the resort is skiing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

39. Oregon Vortex

Sean O’Neill / flickr

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

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

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

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

Lots of odd things happen in the building.

Brooms stand on end, and marbles roll uphill.

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

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

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

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

40. Prehistoric Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

41. Oregon State Fair

Michael Warwick / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

The attractions range from carousels to bumper cars.

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

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

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

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

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

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

42. Three Capes Scenic Loop

Jasperdo / flickr

The Oregon Coast is famous for its scenic driving trails.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

43. Petersen Rock Garden

Petersen Rock Garden

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

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

The creator was named Rasmus Peterson.

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

Then, he started building.

He built miniature replicas of churches and cottages.

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

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

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

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

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

44. Oregon Shakespeare Festival

star5112 / flickr

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival isn’t an event.

It’s a place.

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

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

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

They don’t limit themselves to Shakespeare.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

45. Baldwin Hotel Museum

User:bobjgalindo [ CC BY-SA ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

46. Washington Park

Oregon is filled with beautiful places.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

47. Train Mountain Railroad

Train Mountain Railroad

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

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

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

It’s for miniature trains.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

48. Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

KennStilger47 / Shutterstock

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

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

Rows and rows of tulips are cultivated in every color.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

49. Apple Valley Country Store

Apple Valley Country Store

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do you think that you can do it?

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

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

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

50. Wallowa Lake Tramway

Ashley O’Photography / flickr

Say goodbye to Oregon with the Wallowa Lake Tramway .

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

The panoramic views will be stunning.

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

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

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

No one wants to leave Oregon once they arrive.

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

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

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Oregon

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

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

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Best places to visit in oregon.

Oregon offers some of the West Coast's most captivating scenery. Moody coastline, lush mountains and mesmerizing waterfalls are abundant, and lucky for travelers, many are easily accessible from nearby towns and cities. U.S. News took into account dining – another one of the state's standout attributes – as well as affordability, sights, traveler sentiment and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Oregon. Want to put in your two cents? Be sure to vote below to influence next year's list.

Crater Lake National Park

Cannon beach, willamette valley, silver falls state park, newport, or, portland, or, john day fossil beds national monument, seaside, or, florence, or, mount bachelor, oregon dunes national recreation area, newberry national volcanic monument.

Formed 7,700 years ago after Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed, Crater Lake is America's deepest lake and makes for a superb lake vacation . Today, you can admire Crater Lake National Park's rich blue water and towering mountains during a boat or trolley tour, a scenic drive along the rim or a hike on one of its many trails. In winter, some roads are closed and visibility may be poor due to clouds and snowstorms. But if you don't mind these potential drawbacks, you can enjoy fun winter activities like sledding, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

A top destination on the Oregon Coast, Cannon Beach features a nearly 4-mile-long shoreline with tide pools and sand dunes in addition to its most well-known attribute, the 235-foot-tall Haystack Rock. Once you've gotten your fill of this breathtaking beach, hop in the car and visit nearby Oswald West State Park, which offers great hiking, surfing and fishing opportunities. Or, stay in town to check out Cannon Beach's art galleries and watch experts make glass art at Icefire Glassworks.

Powder hounds and nature lovers take note – Mount Hood is one of Oregon's best places to enjoy outdoor activities. The state's tallest mountain towers more than 11,000 feet above sea level and is reputed to be the second-most climbed peak in the world. Its perpetually snow-covered peaks are home to six ski areas that offer the longest ski season in North America, with Timberline Lodge open 10 months of the year. You can also ski after dark at Mount Hood Skibowl, which boasts the nation's largest terrain for night skiing. In the warmer months, take a scenic hike or drive through the mountain's forest.

Willamette Valley is to Oregon what Napa Valley is to California. This destination is home to two-thirds of Oregon's wineries and vineyards, totaling more than 700 wineries for the entire region. Come here to wine and fine dine for days, and be sure to sample as much pinot noir as you can, since it is Willamette Valley's specialty. When you're not wine tasting, enjoy a relaxing soak in one of Willamette Valley's hot springs.

Oregon's largest state park is one of the state's most unique and scenic natural attractions because of its jaw-dropping waterfalls. The Trail of Ten Falls hiking path loops through the park and takes you above, below and even behind its 10 waterfalls, including the 177-foot-tall South Falls. What's more, Silver Falls State Park offers 35-plus miles of backcountry trails that can be used for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking. When you've worked up an appetite, venture to the park's South Falls Day-use area to enjoy a picnic or barbecue lunch.

Hood River's location in the Columbia River Gorge makes it a prime place for outdoor pursuits. The 80-mile-long valley is known for its stunning collection of waterfalls (think: Multnomah Falls and Starvation Creek Falls) accessible via various hiking trails. It's also considered the windsurfing capital of the world and an excellent destination for other water sports like kiteboarding and sailing. After a long day of adventuring, travelers can unwind with a beer or two at one of the town's microbreweries.

If you're after hearty hikes and delectable eats, Bend is the place for you. This small city has a dining scene that foodies fawn over, complete with food carts, breweries and even cider houses. Bend is also a jumping-off point for numerous natural attractions, including the Deschutes National Forest, which features multiple rivers, mountains and scenic byways. Ample opportunities for outdoor recreation like skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking in summer and rock climbing in spring and fall make Bend appealing year-round.

Of all of the cute coastal towns Oregon has to offer, families will probably appreciate Newport the most. The town, located on Oregon's central coast, features kid-friendly attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Oregon State University's Hatfield Marine Science Center and several beaches. Newport also provides numerous outdoor attractions suited for adults, including scenic Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and the equally picturesque Ocean to Bay Trail.

Located on the southern Oregon Coast just 6 miles north of the California border, Brookings offers outdoorsy travelers the perfect Pacific Northwest welcome, with rugged coastline views and natural splendor to explore. Head to Harris Beach State Park for its sandy beach, tide pools, tufted puffins and views of sea stacks on the shoreline. Then, drive up the coast on the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor for 12 miles of breathtaking ocean vistas. While the town itself is small, you can catch a movie at the local cinema, grab a beer at Chetco Brewing Company or stroll through Azalea Park.

Portland has one of the most dynamic (and affordable) food scenes in the USA, so you'll likely spend the bulk of your time enjoying the city's many culinary offerings, from Voodoo Doughnut to Eastern European fare at Kachka. In between meals and snacks, visit one of Portland's many parks or cultural sights, such as Forest Park (one of the largest urban parks in the country),  the Portland Art Museum (the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest) or Powell's City of Books (the largest independent bookstore in the world).

Fans may recognize Astoria as the setting of "The Goonies," and you'll find several iconic film sites in town, such as the original Goonies house and the Oregon Film Museum, which was featured in the opening scene. But beyond its film history (more than a dozen movies have been filmed here), Astoria holds rich heritage. Its location on the Columbia River near the Pacific Ocean made it a prime fur trading post in the 1800's, and many of Astoria's attractions are dedicated to maritime history. Today, visitors can take in the town's Victorian houses, climb the 125-foot Astoria Column or dine at local breweries and bistros.

As its name suggests, this protected area is famed for having one of the most complete fossil records in the world, spanning more than 40 million years. Visitors can hike through and explore fossils and rock layers in the park's three separate units. Sheep Rock Unit, home to the monument's visitor center which features exhibits and a working lab, is the best starting point. But you won't want to miss the Painted Hills Unit, which woos visitors with distinguishing layered rocks, and the Clarno Unit, which boasts jutting Palisades (rock towers formed from volcanic mudslides).

Seaside is an exceptional vacation destination because it's a gateway to some of the most notable attractions on the Oregon Coast. From this small town of less than 8,000 residents, visitors can reach Tillamook Head, Ecola State Park and Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. All can be found within 15 miles of Seaside, presenting plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Seaside also offers several can't-miss attractions, such as a beachfront promenade, the Seaside Aquarium and Captain Kid Amusement Park.

Florence appeals to travelers keen on spending their next vacation outdoors. One of this coastal town's best assets is its proximity to Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, but Florence is worth a visit in and of itself. Visitors can explore Sea Lion Caves, the largest sea cave in the country, ride horses on the beach, fish on the area's many lakes and play golf on a coastal course. Don't forget to save time for visiting the Heceta Head Lighthouse and Historic Old Town Florence, where you'll find shops, art galleries and the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum.

With 4,300-plus skiable acres and the highest skiable elevation in the state, Mount Bachelor is one of the country's top ski destinations . While there are plenty of trails for experienced skiers, Mount Bachelor also offers runs designed for beginners, as well as free and discounted ski lift tickets for first-timers. The mountain, which is a dormant volcano about 20 miles southwest of Bend, receives an average of 462 inches of snowfall annually from late November to May. The fun doesn't stop after ski season, though, when visitors can trade their ski poles and snowboards for mountain bikes and hiking shoes.

This endless sea of sand is best described as otherworldly. In fact, this locale inspired Frank Herbert to write his sci fi book, "Dune." To catch an eyeful of the park's tallest dunes, hike the John Dellenback Dunes Trail. Once you've exhausted yourself from walking on dry sand (trust us, it won't take long), opt for a high-speed ATV or dune buggy ride, or hop on a sandboard. Then, enjoy some shade in the coastal forest at Tahkenitch, or look for wildlife at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area.   

Foodies and outdoor lovers will love visiting Tillamook. This small town in northwestern Oregon is an outdoor recreation hub where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, crabbing, clamming and fishing, among other activities. After an active day, you'll find no shortage of places to satisfy your appetite. Tillamook is perhaps most famous for its dairy industry, so no trip here would be complete without touring the Tillamook Creamery and sampling its cheese and ice cream. Also save time for trying local brews at one of downtown Tillamook's breweries.

Situated roughly 12 miles south of Bend in the Deschutes National Forest, Newberry National Volcanic Monument features one of Oregon's most unique landscapes. The monument's nearly 55,000 acres are filled with lava flows and other fascinating geological features, including a lava river cave and a lava field where NASA astronauts trained to walk on the moon in the '60s. There's also Paulina Peak, which you can climb to the top of for incredible views. When you're not hiking, go biking, boating or fishing.

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

Apr 17, 2024 • 6 min read

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

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

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

1. Portland

Best place for foodies

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

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

2. The Oregon Coast

Best place for scenic drives

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

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

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

3. The Columbia River Gorge

Best place for hikers

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

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

Best place for runners and cyclists

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

5. The Willamette Valley

Best place for wine lovers

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

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

Best place for all-weather adventurers

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

Time your visit to Oregon just right with our seasonal guide

7. Crater Lake National Park  

Best place for lake lovers

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

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

Best place for theater fans

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

This article was first published December 2021 and updated April 2024

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25 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

1. Crater Lake National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Official site: https://smithrock.com/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 20024 Silver Falls Highway Southeast, Sublimity, Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1313 Mill Street Southeast, Salem, Oregon

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

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

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

Address: 1430 Johnson Lane, Eugene, Oregon

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

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

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

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

Address: 19000 Caves Highway, Cave Junction, Oregon

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

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

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

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

More on Oregon

Best Places to Visit in Oregon: 15 Beautiful Destinations

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

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

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Top 15 Places to Go in Oregon

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

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

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

2. Crater Lake

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

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

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

3. Columbia River Gorge

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

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

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

4. Oneonta Gorge

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

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

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

5. Hood River

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

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

6. The Painted Hills

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

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

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

7. The Wallowa Mountains

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

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

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

8. Alvord Desert

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

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

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

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

9. Strawberry Lake

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

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

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

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

10. Hart Mountain

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

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

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

11. Tamolitch Blue Pools

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

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

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

12. Astoria

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

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

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

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

13. Cannon Beach

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

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

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

14. Mt. Hood

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

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

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

15. Portland

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

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

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

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

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About the Author:

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

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Oregon (OR) » 19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oregon

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oregon

Oregon , also known as the Beaver State, has some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures I found and be amazed by it’s beauty.

1. Boardman State Park

Boardman State Park is a great starting point for anyone who wants to start exploring the natural beauty of Oregon. The park – which is named after the first Oregon Parks superintendent, Samuel H Boardman – is close to both Route 101 and the city of Brookings. The park boasts a few secluded small beaches, some sand dunes and stunning scenery that will take your breath away. There are 27 miles of Oregon Coast Trail to enjoy in Boardman State Park too and most of these are easy beginner hikes.

2. Tulip field in Woodburn

Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm dates back some 65 years ago and is a must-see for anyone visiting Oregon for the first time. Since 1985, the family that owns the farm has been opening the fields for people to enjoy every Easter weekend, and now the farm is open from the end of March to the first week in May. With 40 acres of beautiful fields to explore, Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is a brilliant day out for all the family.

3. Mount Hood

Mount Hood is Oregon’s highest point, but the peak is so much more than that. The mountain, which was called Wy’east by the Multnomah tribe, is often described as the crown jewel of the Columbia River Gorge. Mount Hood, one of the seven wonders of Oregon, is home to a wide range of hiking trails, while there is also skiing, snowboarding and climbing available. The foothills of Mount Hood are well worth exploring as well, as they boast farms, wildflowers and orchards, while there are many lodges to stay in nearby too. Thrillseekers can even enjoy extreme sports such as sailing, windsurfing, hang-gliding and parasailing in the imposing shadow of Mount Hood.

4. Tumalo Falls

Tumalo Falls can be found in the Cascade Range west of Bend, within the boundaries of the Deschutes National Forest. The best way to see the waterfall is to follow the Tumalo Falls Trail, which leads to a viewing platform boasting an incredible place to experience Tumalo Falls. There is also a nearby picnic area which is an ideal spot to stop for some food and a rest. Take care to look out for wildlife around the falls, as visitors to the falls have spotted animals such as hawks, deer and squirrels in the area.

5. Snow Lakes Trail

The Snow Lakes Trail is one of the more challenging hikes available in Oregon, but the views on offer in this part of the state are well worth the effort. Snow Lake is by far the most visited lake in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, with visitors flocking to enjoy the sights of Roosevelt Peak and Chair Peak. Keep in mind that there is a risk of avalanches in the area if snow has been falling during the winter months. There are great views all the way up the Snow Lakes Trail, but it is highly recommended to push on to the end as they get even better the further along the trail you go.

6. The Haystack Rocks

The Haystack Rocks are one of Oregon’s most incredible natural phenomenons. Located at Cannon Beach in Clatsop County, the rocks are accessible by foot at low tide and are a highly popular tourist destination throughout the year. The area is rich with wildlife too, with animals such as puffins and terns calling the rocks their home. Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach also features smaller rocks known as The Needles and there are various rocks to explore throughout the state, including one in Tillamook County near Portland.

7. Toketee Falls

Toketee Falls is arguably Oregon’s best known waterfall and is perhaps even more famous than the aforementioned Tumalo Falls. Toketee – which is a Chinook word that means graceful – can be found close to Highway 138 near Toketee Lake. The hike to the best viewpoint of the falls is just a third of a mile and due to the way the water falls, Toketee Falls is a truly spectacular sight at any time of the year.

8. Opal Creek

Visiting Opal Creek is a must for anyone who enjoys exploring rugged and wild forest. Named after the wife of an early Forest Service ranger, Roy Elliot, Opal Creek is home to eight hiking trails, which take in sights such as five lakes and no fewer than 50 waterfalls. The 20,746-acre site is best visited between April and October and those who want to experience the wilderness up close and personal can even camp overnight at the site too.

9. Japanese Garden in Portland

Run by the Japanese Garden Society of Oregon, the Portland Japanese Garden is one of the state’s most memorable experiences. The garden, which can be found in the West Hills of Portland , is made up of five sub-gardens. The largest of these is the Strolling Pond Garden, which features a 100-year-old five-tiered pagoda lantern and a handmade moon bridge. Elsewhere in the Portland Japanese Garden is an authentic tea house that was built in Japan.

10. Oneonta Narrows

Oneonta Narrows is another of Oregon’s famously stunning waterfalls. Located at the Columbia River at River Mile 138, the falls are just half a mile up Oneonta Creek. The best way for visitors to reach Oneonta Narrows is by taking the Historic Columbia River Highway, which also takes in must-see sights such as the Benson State Recreation Area, Multnomah Falls, John B Yeon State Park and Ainsworth State Park.

11. St. Johns Bridge

The St. Johns Bridge is regarded as one of the most iconic sights in the city of Portland. The steel suspension bridge, which spans the Willamette River, is the tallest bridge in Portland and the northernmost crossing of the river. Nearby Cathedral Park, which is located underneath the bridge, has been named after the Gothic style of the St. Johns Bridge. An annual summer jazz festival is held on the park’s small outdoor stage every summer.

12. Alvord Desert

Alvord Desert is perhaps the most magical place in Oregon, with the area home to incredibly rare light shows – known as The Happening as they are so far unexplained – that some photographers have been fortunate enough to witness. The desert itself is flat enough to drive across during the driest periods, while the area is also known for being where Kitty O’Neil set an unofficial women’s world land speed in 1976. Visitors to the desert have also been known to spot wild horses at springs, drinking in water at the eastern edge of the desert. Be sure to check out Mark Metternich’s site for more beautiful photo’s!

13. Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well, sometimes known as the drainpipe of the Pacific, is a strange natural phenomenon that appears to be draining water out of the sea. Right at the edge of the Oregon coast, Thor’s Well is best seen at high tide or in stormy weather when the rock provides superb photo opportunities. Visitors to Thor’s Well should also check out the nearby Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, which boasts spectacular ocean views and the chance to spot migrating gray whales.

14. Umpqua Hot Springs

Accessible all year round, Umpqua Hot Springs – which is also sometimes known as Toketee Hot Springs – features three gorgeous hot pools located in breathtaking scenery above the North Umpqua River. The view of Surprise Falls from the relaxing pools is simply unforgettable and the springs are found by taking the Umpqua Hot Springs Trail, which is a very short hike. Take note that clothing is optional at Umpqua Hot Springs, which gets very busy at weekends but can be quiet during the day in midweek.

15. Misery Ridge Hiking trail

The Misery Ridge Hiking trail is one of the most popular hikes in Oregon, with walkers flocking to the area to take on the steady climb and take in the spectacular scenery. Rock climbing is one of the best leisure activities in this central part of Oregon and the site gets very busy with climbers at the weekends. Perhaps the best hike within the Misery Ridge area is round the east side of Misery Ridge, which provides great views of the rock formation known as Monkey Face – as soon as you see it, you will immediately know why it has been given that name. The Misery Ridge Hiking trail also takes visitors to Smith Rock, which is another of the seven wonders of Oregon.

16. Sweet Creek Trail

The Sweet Creek Trail is an easy 2.2-mile trip that takes in around a dozen beautiful waterfalls. April and May are perhaps the best time to visit the trail, as this is when various woodland wildflowers burst into full bloom. Look out for the pink fawn lilies, which are particularly rare. The trail is found only a few miles inland from Florence, at the mouth of the Siuslaw River.

17. Wallowa Mountains

Found in the Columbia Plateau in northeastern Oregon, the Wallowa Mountains boast perhaps the most varied and beautiful sights in the whole state. Another of the seven wonders of Oregon, the Wallowas are perhaps best experienced by riding a horse to the summit, but there is also the option of taking a gondola for a spectacular trip from Wallowa Lake Village all the way up to the peak of Mount Howard. Nearby towns Joseph and Enterprise are worth exploring too, with handcrafted beer and chocolate available to buy as a memento of an unforgettable trip.

18. Yaquina Head Light and Cliffs

The tallest lighthouse in the state, Yaquina Head Light used to be known as Cape Foulweather Lighthouse and can be found close to the mouth of the Yaquina River, near the city of Newport. The lighthouse is famous for its appearance in the 2002 film The Ring, when it stood in as the Moesko Island Lighthouse. Tours of the lighthouse are available and visitors should also take time to take a walk along the cliffs at Yaquina Head, although the weather here can be unpredictable – hence the extremely honest former name of the lighthouse.

19. Cape Meares

Cape Meares is highly popular with tourists who are travelling along the Three Capes Scenic route. Cape Meares itself, which is close to the city of Tillamook, is named after British explorer John Meares. The cape, a headland located over 200 feet above the ocean, is a great place to visit for wildlife enthusiasts, as it is home to nesting common murres. Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint is also a fine place to spot bald eagles – the national bird of the United States. Tours of an 1890s lighthouse are also available at Cape Meares and are highly recommended.

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oregon:

• Boardman State Park
• Tulip field in Woodburn
• Tumalo Falls
• Snow Lakes Trail
• The Haystack Rocks
• Toketee Falls
• Japanese Garden in Portland
• Oneonta Narrows
• St. Johns Bridge
• Alvord Desert
• Thor’s Well
• Umpqua Hot Springs
• Misery Ridge Hiking trail
• Sweet Creek Trail
• Wallowa Mountains
• Yaquina Head Light and Cliffs
• Cape Meares

Places to Visit in Oregon in Summer

There are so many  places to visit in Oregon in the summer . Keep in mind that summer in Oregon does not really start until the month of July and runs through September.

If you’re looking for Oregon vacation ideas , summer is a great time to plan your trip. There are plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy – from beach-goers who want to soak up the sun on some of Oregon’s best beaches, to hikers looking for an adventure in one of its majestic national parks.

Average summer temperatures in Oregon are a high of 80 (it may reach 100 degrees once or twice). Night temperatures are the best as they drop down to the low 60s after the sun has set. 

There are many summer outdoor activities like exploring the coastline, hiking, swimming in lakes, photographing waterfalls, and strolling through beach towns.

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What to pack for a trip to oregon.

• Rain jacket  – always be prepared for rain while you’re visiting Oregon, especially near the coast. 
• Hiking shoes  – If you’ll be exploring any hiking trails in Oregon, we recommend hiking shoes instead of sandals. After the umpteenth time of getting rocks out of the sandals, you’ll thank us!
• Hiking socks  – Darn Tough socks help prevent blisters, keep your feet dry, and are guaranteed to last. 
• Water shoes  – You’ll want shoes that are made to get wet AND protect your feet from the rocks. If you’ll be visiting the coastal beaches and tidepools, pack water shoes.
• Sunscreen  
• Refillable water bottle
• Healthy snacks
• Camera Gear Checklist for Travel Photography

Map of Oregon Summer Vacation Spots

Here is a map of all the great places you can visit in Oregon during summertime!

Places to Visit in Oregon in the Summer

With its rugged coastlines, majestic national parks, and breathtaking creeks and rivers, there are plenty of places to explore in this beautiful state.

Columbia River Gorge in the Summer

If you are wanting to see some amazing waterfalls, then Columbia River Gorge needs to be on the top of the list of places to visit this summer in Oregon.

This area is a great place for relaxing with the most incredible views you can imagine. The Columbia River Gorge is a favorite  Oregon photography location , especially the iconic Multnomah Falls!

Take a leisurely hike through some of Oregon’s best trails or enjoy the breathtaking views from one of many lookout points. The Columbia River Gorge is sure to provide an adventure like no other this summer!

Crater Lake National Park in the Summer

Crater Lake is located in southern Oregon. It was formed after a volcano erupted 7,700 years ago. This lake is the deepest lake in the United States with the most beautiful blue water your eyes have ever seen. 

Not only is this Lake beautiful to look at, Crater Lake National Park offers miles and miles of hiking trails. Crater Lake is a great bucket list location when exploring Oregon with kids!  Be sure to include the guided boat tour of the lake in your stop!

Cannon Beach in the Summer

Just 80 miles west of Portland you will find Cannon Beach. It is a great stop on the coastline if you are looking for a beach vacation with resorts, shopping, restaurants and entertainment.

Not only that, but it makes our list for the best Oregon Photography locations to capture the 235 ft tall Haystack Rock. Haystack Rock is the largest monolithic rock that dots the shoreline and gives a great resting place for the sea birds!

Visit Portland in the Summer

Whether you are looking for  things to do in Portland with kids , or on an adult getaway for the weekend, Portland has so much to offer. 

The must do things in Portland include:

• Aerial tram ride to see city views.
• Observation deck to see Mt. Hood/ catch a glimpse of Washington’s St. Helens. 
• Tillamook Cheese factory
• Otter Rock Beach

If you really want to explore Portland, try visiting a few of these 50 unique things to put on your  Portland bucket list.

Washington Park in the Summer

Washington Park has some of the most gorgeous gardens you will want to visit. This park is one of the oldest parks and filled with so much history.  

Portland, Oregon has many parks to enjoy in the summer. You will find that Washington Park is really popular especially during the summer months. 

It is suggested that you arrive right when the park opens or use other transportation to visit Washington Park like the city’s  Max Light Rail .

Oneonta Gorge in the Summer

Looking for a hiking trail that leads you right behind a waterfall? Then add Oneonta Gorge to your list of places to visit Oregon in summer.  

Summer is ideal for this hike because it requires you to get your feet wet to make it to the waterfall. Another bonus to going in the summer is that the water is warmer and shallower during the summer months.

Wallowa Lake in the Summer

Wallowa Lake is the perfect summer vacation for a family. They have both cabins and campgrounds are available for lodging. 

Wallowa Lake offers the best beach-like swimming spots, boat launches and is located near an aerial gondola. If you choose, you can ride the gondola to the peak of Mount Howard that is 8,000 feet in height!

Hells Canyon Recreational Area in the Summer

Hells Canyon is a must on your summer planning list when it comes to visiting Oregon! It is known for the deepest gorge in all of North America. 

At Hells Canyon you will experience all different types of terrain, elevation, and more. It is located in Northeast Oregon and is totally worth the trip to visit it as you can explore by car, boat, and trail making it perfect for kids, adults, and the elderly.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area in the Summer

Adventure is everywhere at Oregon Dunes National Recreation area. 

Here you will find many different activities to keep your whole family entertained. You can enjoy horseback riding, fishing, and hiking. They even have great  picnic areas with the best views of the Oregon coastline.

Battle Rock Beach in the Summer

If you are looking for the best view for fireworks this fourth of July, then look to Battle Rock Beach. Battle Rock Beach has an amazing show they put on every year. 

Not only that, but Battle Rock Beach offers great waves for surfers and wonderful views. Battle Rock Beach also has great hiking trails, as well as a great selection of shops and galleries to browse.

Harris Beach State Park in the Summer

Harris Beach State Park is located on Oregon’s southern coast. If you are looking for trails and sandy beaches to explore this is the place for sure to visit in Oregon this summer.

You can camp and stay a few nights or just make it a day trip. Enjoy a picnic on the beach and look at the beautiful views that the sea stacks make along the ocean. 

Nearby you will also find the city of Brookings that offers amazing views and tons of recreational activities to do. If you are looking to rent a boat or even charter a boat service that will take you to the mouth of the Chetco River this is the place to visit. 

Historic Oregon Trail in the Summer

If you are interested in recreating the history of the Oregon Trail you can visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. Here you will hear the story of the hopes, dreams, and heartaches of the Oregon Trail-era pioneers.

Summertime is the perfect time to visit this historic place where you can take a walk through a wagon train, and even experience history come to life at your own pace. 

Find Oregon Travel Guides at Amazon :

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38 Adventurous Things To Do In Bend Oregon in Summer

This post is sponsored by Visit Bend . All writing and ideas are our own!

It’s no secret that June, July, August, and September are some of the best months to visit Bend, Oregon. The summer season is the month that locals and visitors LIVE for.

That’s because with boundless biking, hiking, climbing, fishing, floating, and MORE, there are outdoor activities for practically everyone . Boredom doesn’t exist in Bend in summer!

In this post, we’re breaking down the best summer activities in Bend by land, water, town, and tours. This makes it easy to browse, which means you can get outside faster.

Let’s get started!

Getting To Bend, Oregon

Getting to Bend in the summer is pretty straightforward! Bend is located in Central Oregon , in the high desert region of the Pacific Northwest.

Here are some general distances and driving times to Bend:

• Portland to Bend Oregon: 160 miles, 3-hour 15-minute drive
• Eugene to Bend, Oregon: 130 miles, 2.5-hour drive
• Seattle, WA to Bend, Oregon: 330 miles, 6.5-hour drive
• Medford to Bend, Oregon: 170 miles, 3-hour drive

The easiest way to get to Bend is by car , but it’s also possible to fly.

Redmond Municipal Airport serves the area with only four carriers – Alaska Air, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines.

These flying destinations are mostly limited to the west coast area.

Redmond Airport has connecting flights to/from Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Seattle, LA, Denver, Portland, and Phoenix.

From here, you’ll have to rent a car or get a taxi into town – the airport is 17 miles from Bend.

Where To Stay In Bend, Oregon

There is an abundance of incredible places to stay in Bend, varying from uber-fancy to budget-friendly.

Here are our recommendations for Bend hotels at different price points:

Bend Oregon Hotels

($$$$) The Oxford Hotel . A perfect spot for a honeymoon or splurge trip, it’s RIGHT in the center of everything and extremely walkable to all things downtown.

($$$) Tetherow Hotel . The best choice for a solid mix of adventure and downtown luxury . It sits on a golf course, has a free shuttle to/from downtown Bend, and is a 20-minute drive form Mount Bachelor.

($$) Campfire Hotel . Less than a mile from the city center, this is t he perfect budget-friendly place to stay in Bend. Includes an outdoor pool + hangout area, and is outdoor-themed!

($$) LOGE Bend . An excellent budget-friendly Bend hotel for those who want to maximize their time outside . Has bike rentals, fire pits, and trails on-site!

Bend Oregon Vacation Rentals

Coming with a large group and want to stay together?

Renting vacation homes in Bend, Oregon is a great way to spend time with your people in one place! Here are some preferred vacation rentals in Bend:

Large Westside Home (Sleeps 10): Located in one of the best neighborhoods in Bend (Kingston), walkable, fully-fenced with a great outdoor grill and patio area.

Riverfront Lodge (Sleeps 14): This spacious home is located right downtown, perfect for big family or friend groups. Extremely walkable to downtown attractions. Comes with a hot tub, outdoor grill, spacious bedrooms, and bikes!

Amazing West Side Home (2 King Suites) (Sleeps 10): Comes with 2 king suites to fit multiple families or couples . It also had a basement hangout area, hot tub, and outdoor eating arrangement!

Camping in Bend, Oregon

Camping near Bend is an excellent way to maximize your time spent outside . Here are our favorite campgrounds near Bend Oregon:

Tumalo State Park : Not to be mistaken with Tumalo Falls, this state park is off Highway 20, on the way to Sisters, Oregon.

Cove Palisades State Park : This is a popular campground for watersports and canyon exploring. Choose between loops on the Deschutes River or the Crooked River.

Paulina Lake Campground : About a 45-minute drive south of Bend, this campground is right on the lake .

Camp Sherman : A small campground in the Deschutes National Forest and along the Metolius River. Stop by the Camp Sherman Store for some classic camping vibes.

Getting Around Bend

It is easiest to get around Bend by car.

There are taxis and Ubers available for trips to and from the airport, but I wouldn’t rely on them for anything else. It can get REALLY expensive if you just rely on uber to get you around Bend!

For even more independence and portability, consider renting a campervan . This way, you can hop to and from campsites, exploring all the things to do in Bend Oregon in summer with maximum ease.

Outdoorsy camper van rentals are in Bend! Think of it like Airbnb but for RVs . You can pick one up in town, and then return it on your way home.

Before Your Visit (Tips For Visiting Bend)

Before partaking in all of the things do in Bend Oregon in summer, there are a few things you need to know:

Take the Bend Pledge : It boils down to “taking care of the places that take care of us.”

The Bend Pledge is like an honor code , the golden rule, or treating others how you want to be treated. Sign it here , and you could win a free trip to Bend!

How To Visit Like A Local : Bend is a biker and walker-friendly town . When possible, consider walking to restaurants or bars, or renting e-bikes.

Get To Know The Permit System : Most wilderness areas around Bend require permits! Before planning your hikes in Bend , learn about when/where/and how to get permits here . Here are the most common types of permits you will need:

• Wilderness Permits (for day use and backpacking in wilderness areas, some permits cost money, some are free)
• Northwest Forest Pass (honored in National Forest areas)
• Sno-Park Pass (to use winter recreation areas)

Voluntourism Programs: It feels good to give back to the places you love most!

Try signing up for a Cave Cleanup with Wanderlust Tours , Smith Rock Volunteer Day , or the Deschutes River Cleanup .

These are just some of the many ways to volunteer in Bend!

What To Pack For Bend in Summer

Bend has a high desert climate , which means the summers here are generally dry and arid .

Here’s what you should be packing to enjoy Bend in summer:

Sunscreen: Yep, there’s tons of sunshine in Bend! Choose a sunscreen like Supergoop ( but here’s the invisible dupe from Trader Joe’s ) that’s sweat-resistant, and reapply regularly!

Sun Hat: Another way to protect yourself from the sun is wearing a hat. Here’s our current favorite.

Hiking Clothes: Choose pieces that have sweat-wicking, breathable fabrics like this series from REI .

Water Shorts: You’ll be in and out of the water all day, so Berty likes these Chubbies Retro Outdoor Shorts for all day stylish wear.

Water sandals: Our favorites are the Teva Hurricane XLT2s .

Northwest Forest Pass: You’ll need one to park at National Forest parking lots. Get one here .

Permits – Bend saw a 300% increase in visitors in the past 5 years, so obtaining permits is the new norm in wilderness areas.

Summer Activities in Bend, Oregon (In Town)

1. walk around downtown bend.

One of the easiest ways to experience Bend in summer is by walking around downtown .

With cobblestone streets, art galleries , public art pieces, and tons of restaurant options , you can easily spend an entire evening downtown.

During the summer, you can experience the Bend Farmer’s Market (more on that below), First Friday Art Walk , and meander around Drake Park after dinner.

It’s one of the best downtown areas in the Pacific Northwest!

2. Go Shopping In The Old Mill District

Address: 450 SW Powerhouse Dr, Bend, OR 97702

For everything shopping, restaurants, and cafes, the Old Mill District is the place to be! Personally, we like to go there for the REI or Athleta to grab any last-minute outdoor gear.

While we’re there, we can grab a bite to eat. Our favorite places are Pastini and Cafe Yumm !

Take a walk around the area and discover signs sharing stories about the old mills that once existed right in that very spot.

3. Get Some Fresh Air at Drake Park and Mirror Pond

Drake Park is 13 acres of green space , right in the heart of downtown. It sits along the Deschutes River, so you can enjoy your badminton game or picnic right by the water .

Berty and I loved taking post-dinner walks around this park before we turned in for the evening.

It’s popular for hosting events, especially in the spring, summer, and fall. It underwent some major renovations in 2003 and is currently undergoing maintenance again in 2022. It’s always improving!

4: Drink Craft Beer

Arguably, one of the best things to do in Bend in summer is gathering your friends to go have a beer!

Today, there are nearly 30 craft breweries in Bend , but this list includes Sisters, Prineville, Redmond, and Sunriver too. Here are some Bend breweries we recommend checking out:

Crux Fermentation Project : In the evening, Crux boasts the best sunset views in Bend on their patio.

Bend Brewing Company : Situate close to the water, this is a great gathering place for post-work drinks with coworkers downtown!

10 Barrel Brewing : Open kitchen, fire pit strewn patio, and tons of great food options, you’ll stay here all evening.

Deschutes Brewery Bend Public House : For classic pub food in a historic downtown building, this place is hard to beat!

Boneyard Beer Bend : This metal/junkyard-themed, spacious area is perfect for big crowds and rowdy (but respectful) gatherings. Come for the hoppy brews that have a cult following!

5. Bend Summer Indoor Adventures

What if it’s too hot outside? There are plenty of Bend summer activities that you can enjoy indoors too!

The High Desert Museum is the most popular indoor summer activity in Bend, with animal shows, history, and fun exhibitions happening all the time!

Downtown, you can pop into several art galleries, the Deschutes Historical Museum , or the Tower Theater to catch a movie.

Need to burn off some energy? Head to the Mountain Air Trampoline Park , Trampoline Zone , K1 Go Kart Racing , or the SHARC (Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic and Recreation Center.). Each of these activities costs around $25 per visit.

To plan an event with a group of friends, consider looking at The Central Oregon Symphony concert schedule, or trying out one of many Bend Escape Rooms !

6. Visit The Bend Farmers Market

The Bend Farmer’s Market runs from May to October, rain or shine! You can find the market in Brooks Alley , between Oregon and Franklin St, and right behind the Tower Theater.

It’s open every Wednesday from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm . Come grab some fresh produce, icecream from Bontá , handmade goods, and more!

7. Bend Summer Festivals and Concerts

One of the best ways to enjoy summers in Bend is by attending a festival!

Bend Summer Festival happens every year and includes live music, a market with local goods, and lots of family activities.

The Les Schwab Amphitheater hosts an impressive lineup of concerts every year too. In 2022, it hosted Alanis Morrisett, Jim Gaffigan, Amos Lee, The Chicks, LANY, and Jack Johnson!

Other Bend festivals include:

Pole Pedal Paddle: A summer event that starts by skiing at Mt Bachelor, biking to the river, paddling the Deschutes, and then finishing with a 1-mile sprint. This relay race supports Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (MSBEF).

Looking for more events during your summer in Bend? Check out the Bend Oregon Events Calendar .

8. Bend Brewfest

Bend Brewfest is an event that happens every year that brings together 150+ craft beer, ciders, and winemakers into one location . They don’t call is Beer Town USA for nothing!

Tickets cost $50 (2022) and provide attendees with 2-day admission , a mug, 10 tasting tokens, and a Bend Ale Trail beer notes notebook.

Looking for more beer events in Bend? Check out these:

The Bend Ale Trail : A self-guided tour of Bend’s best breweries. Collect stamps at each location and receive prizes over time!

Rent a Cycle Pub: Blend the best of Bend with beer and bikes by renting a Cycle Pub for your next group gathering.

9. Goody’s Chocolate

Address: 1111 SE Division Street, Bend, Oregon 97702, 541-385-7085

Goody’s Chocolate and Ice Cream has been in operation for over 30 years and make over 100 types of sweet treats!

Note: Goody’s Chocolate Factor Tours used to be a thing, but tours are no longer happening and have permanently closed . Visit their location is Downtown Bend for some sweet treats!

10. See The Last Blockbuster

Address: 211 NE Revere Ave, Bend, OR 97701, 541-385-9111

Thought Blockbuster was a thing of the past? Think again! Amazon Prime’s documentary of The Last Blockbuster has showcased the final store still in operation, located in Bend! Yes, you can still rent movies here, but it’s more of a fun relic and blast from the past.

It’s owned and operated by Debbie and Ken Tisher, who became a Blockbuster Franchise in 2000 after owning several video stores around Bend.

Outdoor Activities In Bend, Oregon (Land Sports)

11. Go Mountain Biking

Have you even experienced summer in Bend without hitting the bike trails? We think not!

Here are some mountain biking trails in Bend you should check out:

• Phils Trail System: Tons of moderate grades and fund descents.
• Swampy Lakes Sno-Park : This area is accessible for hikers and bikers in the summer.
• La Pine State Park: Great area for new riders or for people with kids.
• Mt Bachelors Downhill Park: Dozens of miles of trails via lift. Intermediate to advanced riders

Don’t have a bike? Rent them from Cog Wild and join their epic mountain bike tours too.

12. Try Road Cycling

Along with its beer accolades, Bend also has the title of Bike Town USA by many! The city is incredibly cycle-friendly, perfect for long rides and plenty of views!

The Three Sisters Scenic Bikeway is a series of routes that connect Central Oregon communities together. The most popular route is Sisters to Smith Rock , which is 36.5 miles one-way.

13. Visit Mt Bachelor In The Summer

Mount Bachelor isn’t just a snow sports destination!

During the summer season, you can experience hiking trails, the observatory, a scenic chairlift, disc golfing, and even a mountain bike park!

Mount Bachelor Background : Mount Bachelor is in the Central Oregon Cascade Range. It’s a stratovolcano that reaches 9,068 feet in elevation. It actually gets the name “Bachelor” because it stands apart from the Three Sisters peak nearby.

14. Smith Rock State Park

Address: Terrebonne, OR 97760

One of the most quintessential Bend Oregon outdoor activities has got to be visiting Smith Rock State Park .

It’s a climber’s paradise , boasting some of the most famous routes in the United States.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to just be a climber to enjoy this park! There are tons of hiking trails, camping, and photography opportunities too.

Some of the most popular things to do at Smith Park include hiking Misery Ridge , walking the Canyon Trail , and snapping photos right from the parking lot.

15. Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area

The Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area is handled by the Bureau of Land Management. It consists of 29,180 acres , and consists of the Dry River Canyon , Horse Ridge Volcanoes , and Badlands Volcanic Area .

A variety of wildlife inhabits this high desert area. Dring your visit, you may see elk, mule deer, antelopes, bobcats, yellow-bellied marmots, golden eagles, and prairie falcons.

This area can host a ton of activities like hiking and camping , but the most popular tend to be taking horseback riding trails or riding ATVs .

16. Stargazing

Central Oregon skies are perfect for stargazing ! Most of the rain deposits on the west side of the Cascade Range, meaning the skies in Bend are clear the majority of the year.

Head up to the  Oregon Observatory in Sunriver for daytime AND nighttime visits. The  Pine Mountain Observatory is a great one to visit after sunset for public viewing hours. If you want to simply be out in the open viewing the stars, the Oregon Badlands is where you need to be.

Prineville Reservoir State Park is designated an International Dark Sky Park , which means it limits the amount of light pollution in the area, preserving the clear night skies. This park would be great for a stargazing camping trip!

17. Cave Exploring

One of the most unique summer activities in Bend is to go spelunking!

“Spelunking”: the exploration of caves, especially as a hobby.

Because of Bend’s incredible volcanic history, there are a plethora of caves to explore in the area.

Some of the most popular caves in Bend include Lava River Cave, Boyd Cave, Skeleton Cave, Arnold ice cave, Hidden forest cave, and Skylight Cave .

Lava River Cave is the most accessible and family-friendly cave to explore. It’s the longest continuous lava tube in Oregon, stretching 5,211 feet long.

Visitors must listen to a ranger talk about White Nose Syndrome , which is a disease that can harm the resident bat population. It’s a $5 fee to enter the cave (or free if you have a Northwest Forest Pass or American the Beautiful Pass ).

When exploring caves, we HIGHLY recommend bringing your own headlamp . Don’t rely on your phone’s flashlight – some caves require both hands to climb around.

The temperature drops rapidly in caves, so wear layers to keep you warm. (It’s an average of 40 degrees even in the summer!)

18. Newberry National Volcanic Monument

If you’re a geology buff, you’re going to love the Newberry National Volcanic Monument .

Part of the Deschutes National Forest , the most recent major eruption was 75,000 years ago when it formed the Newberry Caldera .

Spread across 54,000 acres , you can explore a variety of sections with calderas, caves, lakes, mountains, and hikeable lava flows.

Lava Butte is a cinder cone that rises 500 feet above the ground. Hop on the shuttle ($3/ person) to take you to the top where there is a lookout.

Park at the Lava Lands Visitor Center to visit this, and hike the Trail of Molten Lake (a 1.1-mile loop.)

The Lava River Cave is also a popular attraction in the Newberry area. Hike the 1-mile tunnel in the dark to see the inside of an old lava tube!

19. Hiking In Bend, Oregon

One of our favorite things to do in Bend in summer is go hiking. There are tons of trails in town and nearby!

Here are some of our favorites hikes near Bend :

• Deschutes River Trail (12 miles one-way)
• Tumalo Falls (6.4 miles RT)
• Hiking Pilot Butte (1.8 miles RT in the city)
• Todd Lake Trail (1.7-mile loop)
• Broken Top Trail To No Name Lake (5.5 miles RT)
• Tumalo Peak For Sunrise (4 miles RT)
• Dry River Gorge Trail (6.4 miles RT)
• Sparks Lake Loop (2.4-mile loop)
• Hike the South Sister (12.4 miles RT)
• Peter Skene Ogden Trail (22.3 miles RT)
• Chush Falls Trail (5.8 miles RT)
• Oregon Desert Trail (Long-distance hiking trail through Eastern Oregon)

20. Rock Climbing in Bend

It’s no secret that Smith Rock State Park has the best rock climbing in the area. Some rock faces even reach up to 550 feet!

If you are looking for something a little less adventurous, walk along Tumalo Creek Trail to find a huge array of V1 and V2 bouldering climbs.

Early summer (and early morning) is the best time to go climbing in Bend. It’s not too hot!

21. Golfing in Bend

Bend boasts some pretty incredible golfing opportunities! There are three top-100 golf courses within Bend itself. These include Pronghorn, Crosswater, and Tetherow Golf Course .

Other golf courses include River’s Edge and Widgi Creek. We aren’t golfers ourselves, but this sounds like an incredible place to try it!

22. Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint

Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint is sadly passed by more than it should be! The Ogden Wayside is known for its basalt cliffs , striking sunrises and sunsets, and the incredibly scenic river canyon .

It hosts plenty of green space to stretch your legs and a rest stop for trucks and cars on either side of the highway.

If you want to stay longer, it’s actually a popular spot to go bungee jumping in Oregon !

Guided Tours in Bend, Oregon

23. wanderlust tours.

If you want to really experience summer in Bend, book an adventure with Wanderlust Tours . They do guided tours of caves, sunrise and sunset paddles, trips to the Cascade Lakes, and even a Prohibition tour .

On our last trip to Bend during the summer, we booked the Starlight Canoe Paddle Tour . We arrived at Hosmer Lake during sunset and stayed out late to watch the stars come out. It was an incredible experience!

24. Bend Photography Tours

It’s no surprise that Berty and I like to take photos ! We are always looking for new destinations to photograph, and Bend is no exception.

There are plenty of photography tours in Bend to check out, for those who want a guided experience with local photographers.

Looking for self-guided Bend photo tours? Download our Bend bucket list, or read our article about the best photo spots in Bend Oregon!

25. See Bend From Above!

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you need to see Bend from above!

Big Sky Ballon Company provides a unique experience to see the high desert reagion and float through the nearby river canyon.

If you prefer to see Bend by plane, Bend Aircraft a whole selection of scenic flights, popular especially with photographers!

Note: While many other blog posts still mention the outdated Big Mountain Heli Tours as an option, this business is now permanently closed.

26. Ultimate Scavenger Hunt Bend

Get to know the city of Bend in a fun and interactive way – take the Ultimate Scavenger Hunt! This is a self-guided tour downloadable on your phone, and it will bring you around the city, sharing Bend’s latest and greatest destinations.

It’s a great way to get to know the city in a short amount of time!

Bend Outdoor Activities in the Summer (Water-Focused)

27. surf on the deschutes river.

The Deschutes River runs right through town, making it a staple on any summer trip to Bend.

Through the main portion of town, there are three channels with distinct purposes:

• The Passageway Channel has a few rapids, perfect for tubers and floaters.
• Whitewater Channel has more rapids, and a section to try surfing. This is affectionately called Bend’s Whitewater Park.
• The Habitat Channel is not open to the public but is an area that protects various river vegetation, wildlife, and birds.

28. Floating The Deschutes River

Floating the Deschutes River is one of the most popular things to do in Bend Oregon in summer.

Tube rentals are available at Riverbend Park. From here, you can float through Old Mill District and through very light rapids. There is even a shuttle service to take you back to your starting point.

Floating the river takes around 60-90 minute ride, and the shuttle ride costs $3 per person.

29. Whitewater Rafting

Looking for some bigger rapids ?

Sun Country Tours hosts exciting trips on the Upper Deschutes River, Mckenzie River, and Umpqua River.

Their most popular trip is the “Big Eddy Thriller.” This is a partial-day trip for beginners , to get your feet wet (literally) into the world of whitewater rafting.

30. Stand Up Paddle Boarding

One of the best stretches of water for stand up addleboarding (SUP) is on the Upper Deschutes River , between Dillon Falls and Benham Falls.

You can also take your SUP downtown and paddle around Mirror Pond and Drake Park .

Sun Country Tours offers SUP rentals , as well as guided tours if you want some lessons too!

31. Visit Tumalo Falls

One of the most iconic Bend waterfalls is Tumalo Falls .

Dropping 89 feet into the stream below , this is a gorgeous Oregon waterfall with tons of vantage points to enjoy its beauty.

Getting there requires driving 2 miles on an unpaved road to the trailhead. There is a $5 parking fee, restrooms, and a picnic area.

32. Visit Other Waterfalls Near Bend

Tumalo Falls is just one of many waterfalls near Bend ! Here are some others to check out while you’re in the area:

• Dillon Falls
• Benham Falls
• Chush Falls
• Sahalie and Koosah Falls (McKenzie River Corridor)
• Proxy Falls
• Salt Creek Falls and Diamond Creek Falls
• Steelhead Falls

33. Fishing in Bend

Did you know Bend is ranked one of the top 10 fly fishing towns by Forbes ? With tons of rivers, streams, and lakes surrounding Bend, trout, steelhead and other fish are abundant.

Locals suggest checking out the Crooked River (by Smith Rock) , Deschutes , Metolious , and Fall River for the most frequent sightings.

Outside of Bend , you can also find world-class fishing in Prineville, Sisters, LaPine, and Redmond too.

34. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

Along the Cascade Lakes Highway are endless opportunities to launch your canoe or kayak in the water! The scenic drive itself is 66 miles long , and should takes you 4-5 hours to complete depending on how often you stop.

The road is open when the snow melts , so come later in the summer – it’s only open seasonally!

Of the 14 main lakes, the most popular lakes on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway include Todd Lake , Sparks Lake , Cultus Lake , Hosmer Lake , and Crane Prairie Reservoir .

This is a popular Bend summer destination for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and camping! It’s also an awesome day trip for having a lake day picnic.

35. Central Oregon’s Natural Hot Springs

Have you ever been soaking in one of the many natural Oregon hot springs ? Conveniently, Central Oregon has an abundance of them!

Paulina Hot Springs requires a bit of a hike, and is not super hot nor deep. But the views are incredible!

Umpqua Hot Springs is a 2-hour drive from Bend, but is an iconic Oregon pool that you’ve probably seen on social media!

Deer Creek Hot Springs (aka Bigelow HS) is a small pool tucked next to the McKenzie River in the Willamette National Forest.

McCredie Hot Springs is located outside of Oakridge. It’s known for its easy access and high temperatures.

Hart Mountain Hot Springs requires a longer drive from Bend, but you will be able to experience solitude in a natural pool and a structured one just 100 meters from each other.

For commercial pools, consider exploring Breitenbush , Summer Lake , Crane Hot Spring , or McMenamins Old St. Francis School.

Day Trips From Bend (To Other Places)

Summer in Bend doesn’t have to end within the city limits!

Here are other adventures to extend your time in Central Oregon:

36. North of Bend, Oregon (And West)

Willamette National Forest: Hike or backpack the Mckenzie River Trail . See Sahalie & Koosah Falls , and Tamolitch Blue Pool .

Mt. Jefferson Wilderness Area : Marion and Gatch Falls (permit required), West Metolius River, and Three Fingered Jack Loop are the most popular hikes here.

Mount Hood National Forest : There is an abundance of hiking trails on Mount Hood , but the most popular are the Ramona Falls trail , Zig-Zag Canyon, and Trillium Lake Loop .

37. South of Bend, Oregon

Umpqua National Forest : Here, visitors can go camping, see Toketee Falls, and soak at Umpqua Hot Springs.

Crater Lake National Park : Oregon’s only national park, this is the deepest lake (1,943 feet) in the United State!

Hart Mountain Antelope Refuge : This area is an incredible destination for wildlife photographers and those who seek solitude in nature.

38. Visit Bend’s Neighbors

Bend has some pretty incredible Central Oregon neighbors!

If you’ve got a little more time to explore even more things to do around Bend, make sure to check out these neighboring towns:

• Sisters, Oregon : This darling town is a great basecamp for even more adventures in the Deschutes National Forest.
• Redmond : Stay here to be near the Redmond Caves, and the Dry Canyon Trail.
• Madras : Come here for the high desert scenery, Crooked River Gorge, and the Pelton Dam.
• Prineville : Come here as a home base to explore the Oregon desert, like the Painted Hills, John Day Fossil Beds, and the Ochoco National Forest.
• La Pine : Visit La Pine for some nearby camping at Paulina Lake, East Lake, and incredible volcanic attractions.
• Sunriver : This is a destination resort perfect for families, golfers, and outdoor recreationists!

Things To Do In Bend Oregon in Summer (Summary List)

• Walk Around Downtown Bend
• Go Shopping in the Old Mill District
• Visit Drake Park and Mirror Pond
• Drink Craft Beer
• Bend Indoor Summer Activities
• Visit The Bend Farmer’s Market
• Enjoy Bend Summer Festivals and Concerts
• Bend Brewfest
• Goody’s Chocolate and Ice Cream
• Visit The Last Blockbuster Store
• Go Mountain Biking
• Try Road Cycling
• Visit Mount Bachelor in the Summer
• Smith Rock State Park
• Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area
• Cave Exploring
• Newberry National Volcanic Monument
• Hiking Trails in Bend, Oregon
• Rocky Climbing in Bend
• Golfing in Bend
• Peter SKene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint
• Book an adventure with Wanderlust Tours
• Bend Photography Tours
• See Bend From Above
• The Ultimate Scavenger Hunt, Bend
• Surf on the Deschutes River (Bend Whitewater Park)
• Floating the Deschutes River
• Go Whitewater Rafting
• Stand Up Paddleboarding
• Visit Tumalo Falls
• Visit Other Waterfalls Near Bend
• Fishing in Bend
• Drive Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
• Soak in Central Oregon’s hot springs
• Day Trips North of Bend
• Day Trips South of Bend
• Visit Bend’s Neighbors

Did we miss any things to do in Bend Oregon in summer? What would you add to the list? Tell us in the comments!

Top 8 Things to Do in Sunriver in Summer

Whatever you’re looking for from a fun summer vacation, you’ll find it in Sunriver . Just 20 minutes south of Bend, the bustling community sits surrounded by forests of ponderosa pines and offers a full weekend of enjoyment for travelers of all stripes—complete with world-class golf courses, otherworldly natural scenery, lazy river floats and comfortable overnight stays.

So as you make travel plans, here’s a look at the top eight things to do in Sunriver this summer.

1. Bike Sunriver’s Beautiful Bike Paths

One of the top activities in Sunriver, Oregon, is riding along more than 40 miles of paved bike paths (mostly flat and largely protected from motorized traffic) through meadows and forests, to community landmarks like The Village at Sunriver shopping center and Sunriver Resort Marina . Along the way, nearly two dozen interpretive panels explain the region’s history, flora, fauna and more.

Of particular note is the 12-mile (round-trip) Sun-Lava Path , which heads through a craggy lava flow before arriving at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument’s Lava Lands Visitor Center; there, visitors can learn about the national monument, follow paved walking paths through the heart of the lava flow and summit Lava Butte .

Ready to hit the trail? Check out our guide to biking in Sunriver, Oregon , to get started.

2. Play the Golf Courses at Sunriver Resort

Golfers of all abilities and skill levels love testing themselves at Sunriver Resort , which hosts four world-class courses.

Crosswater Golf Course , named one of the nation’s 100 top courses by Golf Digest, is beloved for a design that incorporates local scenery (such as woodlands and wetlands) while offering intermittent views of the Deschutes River and Mount Bachelor. Meadows Golf Course , meanwhile, occasionally hugs the winding Sun River while keeping golfers on their toes with sloping fairways and water hazards. Woodlands Golf Course , designed by architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., passes lava flows, water hazards, forests and other natural features over the course of 18 gorgeous holes. And the nine-hole, fast-playing Caldera Links Golf Course caters to families, newer golfers and relaxed players with shorter holes and scenic views of Mount Bachelor.

3. Explore the Newberry National Volcanic Monument

Up for a day trip from Sunriver? Check out the Newberry National Volcanic Monument , which hosts alpine lakes, jagged lava flows, volcanic remains and other natural marvels across 54,000 awe-inspiring acres.

A full day trip to some of the monument’s attractions might include a drive to the top of Paulina Peak (where wide-open Cascade peak views await), a hike through history along the Lava Cast Forest Trail , a trek into the 2.2-mile (round-trip) Lava River Cave (though timed reservation tickets are required between early May and mid-September), sightseeing from atop the Lava Butte cinder cone and educational insight at the Lava Lands Visitor Center . However you plan your day, each activity offers a fascinating glimpse at the natural forces that quite literally shaped Central Oregon as we know it today.

4. Get on the Water Around Sunriver

The Deschutes River winds its way north at the western edge of Sunriver, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy a sunny summer day on the water. 

The Marina at Sunriver Resort , for instance, rents canoes, solo and tandem kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rafts (measuring 10-14 feet long and fitting groups of up to 10) and inner tubes—all including life jackets, paddles and a post-trip shuttle ride. The marina’s recommended float totals about six miles (one-way); it begins at the marina and ends at Benham Butte—where paddlers and floaters can catch a ride back to the resort. Each trip takes 2-3.5 hours, depending on the craft, and showcases pine forests, snow-capped mountain peaks, lava flows and other scenic sites.

For a more thrilling adventure, read about whitewater rafting adventures around Sunriver .

5. Make a Splash in Pools Around Sunriver

Cool off on a warm summer afternoon with a few hours in the myriad pool facilities at Sunriver Resort.

The Cove Aquatic Center enchants resort guests with indoor and outdoor pools, an indoor-outdoor waterslide, lazy river, jetted tubs and other fun features; make a day of it, and relax between pool sessions in a private outdoor cabana. Also open to resort guests is Sage Springs Club and Spa , which comprises a three-lane lap pool for invigorating workouts—and hot tubs for enjoying some well-deserved downtime afterward.

6. Go Horseback Riding at Sunriver Stables

There are plenty of fun ways to get on the trails when visiting Sunriver, Oregon, but the most magical just might be a horseback ride through Sunriver Stables .

Here’s how it works: Visitors seven and older can sign-up for rides that include 15 minutes of instruction and up to an hour on the trail. Led by the locally owned Sunriver Trail Rides, the beginner-friendly outings head into meadows covered with wildflowers, pass through forests of pine, follow the bubbling Deschutes River and include occasional views of nearby volcanic peaks. Younger riders, meanwhile, can enjoy short pony rides around the stables. For more, get the skinny on horseback riding at Sunriver Resort .

7. Peer Into the Cosmos at Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory

In 2020, Sunriver was honored as a Dark Sky Friendly Development of Distinction by the International Dark Sky Association—a designation reflecting its dark night skies, lack of light pollution, and excellent stargazing opportunities.

Around the community, stargazers routinely gather after sunset at the Oregon Observatory at the Sunriver Nature Center , which hosts 12 to 20 telescopes on a given night—the largest collection of telescopes for public use in the United States. On a clear night, visitors can see stars, planets, nebulae and other cosmic wonders under the watchful eye of astronomers who can identify (and provide background on) those fascinating features. The fun doesn’t stop when the sun rises, either; the observatory is open during the daytime to view sunspots, solar storms and more.

8. Get a Good Night’s Sleep at Sunriver Resort

We’ve shared enough activities so far to fill three or four days—so you’ll want a comfortable place to rest and recharge each night. Around town, that almost always means staying at Sunriver Resort .

Befitting its status as the biggest, best-known overnight option in the area, Sunriver Resort offers 245 guestrooms between its Lodge Village and River Lodge properties—not to mention 275 vacation homes, cabins, bungalows, condos and more across three rental communities . These rooms accommodate everyone, from couples on a romantic retreat to groups of 16, and offer amenities that include decor crafted from locally sourced volcanic rock, free or discounted bike and boat rentals and more.

Other stories

More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.

Your Guide to Biking in Sunriver, Oregon

No tour of the best biking in Central Oregon is complete without a stop in Sunriver, Oregon. A city named after the abundance of sunshine and water, Sunriver is a nationally-renowned destination for outdoor adventure. The town is nestled right where the Deschutes National Forest meets the base of the Cascade Mountains, just a few miles south of beautifully stark high desert landscapes. From mountain biking trails near volcanic monuments to paved paths meandering near the river, Sunriver is perfect to explore from the seat of a bike.

Whitewater Rafting Adventures Near Sunriver

A visit to Sunriver, Oregon calls for getting on the water and soaking up the sunshine. Sunriver is a community based around Sunriver Resort that lives and breathes outdoor recreation. Visitors from all over the world call Sunriver one of their favorite vacation destinations, and much of the reason belongs to the stretch of the Deschutes River that runs through town. When the summer sun is high in the sky, one of the best ways to cool off and get some thrills is to float a whitewater section of the river.

The Best Hiking Around Sunriver, Oregon

Sunriver, Oregon is known for two things that might not come as a surprise: ample sunshine, and plenty of rivers and waterways. Nestled in the Deschutes National Forest at the base of the Cascade Range, Sunriver is a perfect destination for people who want to explore and see the best of the local landscape. The surrounding area is filled with tall pines and forested lands with meadows dotted throughout. The forest often gives way to a dry and volcanic landscape, contrasted by the refreshing rivers, lakes and ponds that can be enjoyed on a hot summer day. Want to get going? Here are five jaw-dropping hikes for you to try in and near Sunriver.

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20 Incredible Places to Visit in Oregon With Kids

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit Oregon

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

• 4.  Admire haystack Rock on Canon Beach

5.  Float Down the Deschutes River in Bend

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Places to Visit In Oregon With Kids

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4.  Admire Haystack Rock on Canon Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More to come from Oregon & the Pacific North West!

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

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

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• 6 Coolest Towns in The Pacific Northwest for a Summer Vacation in 2024

Low in crowds and high in attractions—what more can a heart desire for a summer getaway or vacation? How about a dose of PNW charm and wildness in equal proportion to what these towns aspire to? Spectacularly remote within the vast region, the shoreside gems offer easy access along scenic oceanfront highways, while the inland town of Snoqualmie is Seattleans' favorite escape, being 30 miles out of the city. There's no better time than this summer to visit a cool town under the hot sun with a beach nearby and shaded hikes a hop away.

Seaside, Cannon Beach's calm neighbor, offers a fair share of incredible attractions by the ocean, like the unique Painted Rock Beach, animal interactions at the Seaside Aquarium, and the mega-popular Funland Entertainment. Snoqualmie is home to a gigantic waterfall for misty picnics and adventures through the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. From the soaring mountainscapes to the soaring eagles over the ocean in Oysterville and comic baby seals, the Pacific Northwest keeps it authentic but incredibly cool.

Bandon, Oregon

Panoramic view of sea stacks along Bandon Beach in Oregon.

Bandon , at the heart of Oregon's South Coast, where the beach feels softer, and the sun feels pleasant enough to make you linger just a tad longer at ocean vistas, yearns for a true expression of the PNW. From the boulder-studded Bandon Beach to Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, this is coastal life to the fullest, to taste in the salty air, seafood at Lord Bennett's Sand, and delectable pies and pastries throughout bakeries like Bandon Coffee Cafe. The active can enjoy fishing, hiking, and kayaking on the Wild Rivers Coast, while the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge is just to the north for a nature hike.

Once destroyed by a fire, Bandon is home to charming shops and galleries, a wooden boardwalk on the beach, and spectacular sunsets while lounging on the sands, making it undeniably cool and hitting something on the bucket list of every traveler in the PNW. Bandon is the "Cranberry Capital of Oregon," with thriving agriculture, and Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is world-famous for having the best links in the country. Putting its heart into everything and bringing the storied past into the present, don't miss Coquille River Lighthouse and the intriguing outdoor sculptures of painted creatures at the waterfront Washed Ashore Gallery & Volunteer Workshop.

Camas, Washington

Street view of Camas, Washington. By Another Believer, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Camas, a small Washington town, delivers a hefty dose of cool for any taste to maximize every PNW experience. Nestled between Lacamas Lake and the Columbia River , visitors can enjoy waterfront recreation from the doorstep, from calm kayaking paddles to the thrills of whitewater rafting. One of the larger small towns, Camas, comes with a lot of attractions for active seafood lovers or if relaxing is your top priority. From the waterfront Heritage Park to Lacamas Park for hikes, Liberty Theatre and Top Burger Drive-in evoke an old-timey feel.

Home to just over 27,000, the tree-lined town nestles in between the rugged Washington Coast and the nearby forests with easy access over tranquil, misty hills, perfect for a packed picnic or a backpack for in-depth hikes. Lacamas Lake Regional Park is just a hop from the Camas downtown area with its historic buildings, where visitors can browse the Camas antique store filled with gifts before departing, while the aforesaid cinema also hosts live performances and music concerts for a romantic and cultural evening. There's no better time to plan a visit than now for the Camas Farmers Market between May and October and the 2024 Camas Plant & Garden Fair.

Oysterville, Washington

If oysters, quirky history, and dreamy seaside walks are your cup of tea, take a stroll along the shores of Willapa Bay with bald eagles diving for small fish and oysters in the tide pools—life-changing. The ocean here ebbs at its own tide, and the comic baby seals entertain passersby while their mamas snack on some of the best salmon in the country, which you, too, can enjoy. Just a tiny town of profound beauty found along the north end of the 45-mile Long Beach Peninsula, Oysterville, will take away your breath as a photographer's paradise. This historic village with ultra-fresh seafood from the bay, one of the top-producing oyster regions in the world, maximizes the sweeping views over the bay to the horizon at sunset, coloring the skies in purples and oranges.

Home to Oysterville Sea Farm, visitors can buy fresh-from-the-sea delicacies and cook 'em up over a beachside fire or a grill at a cozy waterfront rental. From fishing charters to Ilwaco on the south end of the peninsula to a scenic drive between the area’s seafood markets for some of the Pacific Northwest’s finest Dungeness crab, salmon, and Albacore tuna, don't miss a downtown stroll amid perfectly preserved homes from the 1800s and manicured gardens straight from a Norman Rockwell painting. In the mid-1800s, Robert Hamilton Epsy and Isaac Alonzo Clark befriended Chief Klickeas of the Chinook Indian tribe, who introduced them to oystering. Sold as far as San Francisco , Oysterville was the county seat of Pacific County until a legendary rebel stole all the county documents, and the seat went to South Bend.

Seaside, Oregon

Boat rental at Necanicum River in the city center of Seaside, Oregon. Editorial credit: Victoria Ditkovsky / Shutterstock.com

Not quite as popular as the neighboring Cannon Beach , Seaside is every bit as beautiful. Home to a beachfront promenade, from the Little Beach to the Seaside Beach, the unique Painted Rock Beach is southernmost, and visitors can enjoy wistful strolls in between all three for different vibes and views to lounge in. This family-friendly town boasts attractions like the Seaside Aquarium, which has interactive marine life and creatures like seals and sea lions next door to the mega-popular Funland Entertainment Center right in the heart, by the ocean.

Don't miss a chance for a sunset stroll of your life at Seaside Cove; chances are you'll be virtually alone for the most romantic photoshoot, perfect after a day of go-karting at the fun Captain Kid Amusement Park nearby. Featuring not one but two rivers through the heart, visitors can follow the Necanicum River to where it empties into the Pacific or the Neacoxie Creek to the ocean. From there, it is all about paddleboarding or surfing in the sea, or, if you prefer to stay dry, ride the bike path along the promenade against the sea or hike some incredible trails through Ecola State Park with expansive views of the rocky coastline.

Snoqualmie, Washington

View of Snoqualmie Falls on a powerful day in Washington State.

Snoqualmie, a remarkable town in the Evergreen State to visit in the summer, stands wholeheartedly behind its nickname, delivering a dose of inland wilderness. Just 30 minutes from the city, it is Seattleans' favorite escape on the weekends, and you could discover over a whole vacation of wonders that this scenic Washington Corner is renowned for. Home to Snoqualmie Falls, a world-class natural landmark and attraction, it is a spectacular sight to behold in the refreshing mist under the sun after a hot day hike. The magnificent 268-foot waterfall is a background location in the hugely popular 1990s TV show Twin Peaks, while the 45-mile Snoqualmie River runs through the town's heart.

Great for recreation from the doorstep, waterside strolls, and pretty views while browsing for souvenirs or a bite to eat, the three forks join above the waterfall in a sight to behold and experience as boaters and anglers do while the hikers in your group explore the trails through Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Reconvene at a great camping site, Douglas Fir Campground, for a night under the stars on the banks of the North Fork Nooksack River after a fire-cooked fish dinner against sunset views. The 7.7-mile Mailbox Peak Trail Loop is an arduous and rewarding trek to reward yourself with wine at Sigillo Cellars or a deserving stay and some pampering at the Attic at Salish Lodge & Spa.

Winchester Bay, Oregon

Aerial view of Winchester Bay, Oregon.

Winchester Bay is a small port village between the open waters of the ocean at the Pacific end of the Umpqua River and the bay in the heart of the dunes, with its most notable attraction being the Umpqua River Lighthouse Museum. Whether you're in for sailing, dune buggy rides, or exploring the length of the river via kayak, Winchester Bay is an ideal base camp for all the cool pursuits, with no better place to start than the lighthouse with the Coastal Visitors Centre and gift shop for souvenirs before departing. As a long-time riverside strategic location and no stranger to expeditions, the frontier town in between the Oregon Coastal Dunes and the Southern Coast thrived early from fur and timber trades.

The legacy is its historic downtown, the flamboyant light, and plenty of unique opportunities in the outdoors for visitors, like photography, horseback along the beach, trails, and dunes, or partaking in the famous crabbing tradition. Being in the "Crab Capital of the World," there's everything from rental equipment to guides to try your own hand at crabbing for fresh Dungeness crab, ending the day with a fire-cooked dinner along the shore at sunset. Visitors can even rent out a yurt or cabin by the sea to fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and view of Umpqua Lighthouse, open for tours, and step out into the fresh morning sea breeze with gentle waves at their feet.

Discover Your Perfect Pacific Northwest Escape

The Pacific Northwest, aka Cascadia, covers mountain ranges, rugged coasts, sandy beaches with wilderness in between, and tiny towns close to it all. From Washington to Oregon , the Pacific Northwest is full of beauty, while the towns come with quirks like Bandon's intriguing outdoor sculptures of painted creatures at the waterfront Washed Ashore Gallery & Volunteer Workshop or Camas' old-timey attractions like the waterfront Heritage Park, as well as Liberty Theatre and Top Burger Drive-in for the evening. Evoking every kind of fantasy, there's a town on this list with something cool to catch your eye, where a simple stroll along the shores of Willapa Bay in Oysterville around tide pools is not just dreamy but life-changing.

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Oregon City is a perfect day trip destination, with rivers, restaurants and trails to explore

• Updated: Apr. 20, 2024, 8:05 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 20, 2024, 7:00 a.m.

A spring morning on the McLoughlin Promenade, a scenic walkway along the bluff above downtown Oregon City, with Willamette Falls in the distance. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

• Jamie Hale | The Oregonian/OregonLive

Between riverside beaches, good restaurants, beautiful trails and one incredible waterfall , Oregon City has more than enough to fill your cup.

Those in the Portland area looking for a quick day trip – say, something far enough to be removed but close enough to be convenient – should look no further than the historic city at the end of the Oregon Trail.

Popularly lauded as the first incorporated U.S. city west of the Rocky Mountains (though Mayor Denyse McGriff will tell you it was the first west of the Missouri River ), the town sits at the intersection of the Willamette and Clackamas rivers with a small, historic downtown near the amazing Willamette Falls and a more sprawling section of town on the bluff above the Willamette River .

While there’s definitely a small-town vibe, its proximity to Portland is clear, especially in the restaurant scene. This is a place where you can find the offshoot of Gabriel Rucker’s famed Canard , and at least one cafe that stocks beans from Deadstock Coffee . That said, you’re more likely to see people populating beloved establishments like Mike’s Drive-In and Ranee’s on Main, where the food is decidedly unfussy.

I have long loved spending the day in Oregon City, taking any opportunity to go there. For years, I took my car to a mechanic in town, often lingering long after the work was done.

This spring, when the sun emerged and the flowers began to bloom, I plotted my return: a daylong exploration of old favorites and new spots around town. If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a travel reporter, it’s that there are always new things to discover.

Coffee and a danish at Black Ink Coffee in downtown Oregon City. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

The Oregon City Municipal Elevator is a 130-foot elevator built in 1955 that takes pedestrians to the bluff above the town. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

BREAKFAST AND A WALK

The best place to start your day downtown is Black Ink Coffee , a cafe on the southern end of the historic downtown that shares space with White Rabbit Gifts. Portland coffee snobs will be at home here with beans from Deadstock, Proud Mary and Stumptown. On a sunny Thursday morning, I sipped a macchiato at a table with vague “Alice in Wonderland” markings, then slipped out into the beautiful day.

While this part of Oregon City seems designed for walking, those embarking on foot will have to contend with parking: Metered spots downtown have two-hour limits, forcing visitors to return and move their cars. There are a few four-hour and eight-hour spots, as well as one pay lot, but I usually just surrender and organize my day around the meter.

Not far from Black Ink Coffee is the famed Oregon City Municipal Elevator , a 130-foot free public elevator that takes pedestrians up to the bluff over town (a charming stairway to the top is also available). The elevator opened in 1955, replacing an old hydraulic model that forced people to cross a 35-foot catwalk over the railroad tracks. All this I learned at the top, where a cheerful worker sat at a desk offering information to curious passersby.

The city continues at the top of the elevator, with more shops and restaurants, as well as historic buildings and neighborhoods. A few blocks over, I found The Hive Social , a hip, modern restaurant that serves food all day. In a cozy booth, I sidestepped the pricey Benedicts for an order of the Just Avo Toast and over-easy eggs, with a (surprisingly tall) glass of grapefruit juice that came out to about $20 – good fuel for a morning walk.

Oak trees and green spaces are found along the McLoughlin Promenade. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Willamette Falls, seen from a viewpoint on the side of Oregon 99E in Oregon City. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

A mock pharmacy showcases old medicine bottles and other medical devices inside the Museum of the Oregon Territory. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

The elevator gives access not only to the upper part of town, but also the McLoughlin Promenade , a half-mile pathway that runs along the edge of the bluff, past beautiful gardens and great views. The promenade comes alive in the spring, with blooming flowers, blue skies and lots of green space to enjoy. For now, this is also the best place outside of a boat to get a look at Willamette Falls , which since time immemorial has been a place for fishing and communal gathering.

As walkers on the promenade can see, Willamette Falls is still surrounded by several old paper mill buildings and hydroelectric powerhouses, some of which are active and some of which are actively being torn down. On the Oregon City side of the river, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde is slowly demolishing those buildings to make room for its tumwata village project. On the other side, the Willamette Falls Inter-Tribal Public Access Project is working on a vision of its own . Both projects promise new, beautiful community spaces, but are expected to take years to complete.

At the end of the McLoughlin Promenade, I crossed a pedestrian bridge over Oregon 99E and walked up to the main Willamette Falls viewpoint on the side of the highway. The view here doesn’t come close to what you’d get on the river, but it’s still a pretty good look.

Across the street, I popped into the Museum of the Oregon Territory , a small museum run by the Clackamas County Historical Society that had just opened for the day. The $8 admission gave me a self-guided tour of the exhibits, which run from Indigenous history through the industrial era into modern times. This is a nice way to dip your toes into local history; those looking for a more immersive experience can visit the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center on the other side of town, with its historic re-enactors, crafts, games and tours.

The Corner 14 food cart pod is bustling on a weekday afternoon. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

People gather along a beach on the Willamette River at Burnside Park in West Linn, with Goat Island in the distance. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

WILDFLOWERS AND RIVERSIDES

Back along the promenade, down the elevator and once again downtown, I searched for something to eat. I’ve lunched a lot in Oregon City over the years and have settled on a few favorites: the lefse wraps at Ingrid’s Scandinavian Food , the perfectly-portioned lunch menu at Pho Thi , and the creative, upscale options at Canard .

On this trip, I decided to check out the Corner 14 food carts , across the street from Oregon City Brewing on the north end of downtown. After browsing carts offering Thai, burgers, Mexican and Russian peroshki, I settled on a place called Veggie Bowl, where I devoured a box of rice, quinoa, veggies and nori, flavored with an addictive spicy sauce for a reasonable $11. Fueled up once again, I set off for an afternoon exploring the outdoor opportunities around town.

Oregon City has a number of good hiking areas, including Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park , which opened in 2021 with more than four miles of forested trails, and Canemah Bluff Nature Park , a small park with river views.

One of my favorite outdoor destinations here is the Camassia Natural Area , a 26-acre nature preserve just across the Willamette River in West Linn. Camassia is known for its beautiful spring wildflower blooms, which on this day I couldn’t resist. A short loop trail took me through a forest blooming with trillium and Oregon grape, and into meadows where purple camas lilies and pink sea blush flowers were popping. Nestled into a local neighborhood, the preserve has limited parking, so be respectful of neighbors when finding a spot. (Alternately, you can make the one-mile walk from downtown Oregon City, which is along sidewalks most of the way.)

After the flowers, I drove a few minutes deeper into West Linn to Maddax Woods , a seven-acre park along the Willamette River. Despite what the name suggests, the highlight here is a riverside viewing platform that looks out to Goat Island (another misnomer, as the resident animals are roosting herons). A wooded trail leads a short way uphill and enters Burnside Park , a neighborhood forest that gives access to a shaded river beach. I could have spent the rest of the afternoon on the sand, where the scenery was peaceful despite the rumble of motors from a boat launch across the water. Instead, I marked it down for another time and continued on my journey.

Camas lilies bloom at Camassia Nature Preserve. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

A margherita pizza at Mi Famiglia, a pizza restaurant in downtown Oregon City. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

A river intake pump station is an unusual landmark along the Clackamas River Trail. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Somehow hungry again, I stopped at the Mi Famiglia pizzeria in downtown Oregon City, where I downed half a $17 margherita pie, cooked speedily in the wood-fired oven. The day had grown warm, and I found the meal a necessary break from both the sun and from walking. Of course, that didn’t mean I was done exploring.

After visiting the banks of the Willamette River, I was interested to see what the Clackamas River parks had to offer. Back in my car, I drove to the north side of town where I found River Access Park , part of the Clackamas River Trail . Between the noise of nearby Interstate 205 and the disappointingly small river access points, this was no peaceful getaway (though the sunny, accessible picnic areas were tempting). The paved trail is better suited for cycling than walking, and my feet soon tired of the hard surface. I had hoped to spend more time by the Clackamas, but after a quick two-mile out-and-back walk, I had seen enough.

With evening descending and my to-do list complete, I searched for one final stop to put a cherry on the top of my Oregon City day trip. The day before my trip, a colleague who lives in the area gave me a great tip: Mike’s Drive-In , a local burger chain with a spot in the heart of Oregon City, offers soft serve ice cream cones for $1.49. There, I ordered a vanilla-strawberry swirl and grabbed a seat outside, chilled by both the ice cream and the cooling day.

It might have been a little early in the season for days filled with riverside beaches and ice cream cones, but I felt certain this town would soon be buzzing with activity, the community’s many wonderful destinations well enjoyed.

-- Jamie Hale covers travel and the outdoors and co-hosts the Peak Northwest podcast . Reach him at 503-294-4077, [email protected] or @HaleJamesB .

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Oregon Outback: Summer Lake area has hot springs, dark skies, adventure and thick steaks

Everything feels just a little bigger in the Oregon Outback.

The mountains are steeper, history deeper, night skies darker and cuts of steak thicker than anyone has a right to expect in remote southcentral Oregon.

And don’t get me started on the birds.

I’ve seen vast flocks on rivers and wildlife refuges. But the scale and sound of migration season at Summer Lake Wildlife Area boggles the senses.

Over spring break I returned to the Oregon Outback for the first time in a few years to explore just a few of the places I’d missed, including Summer Lake. It reminded me how great this area is for a spring road trip.   

Here’s a few ideas for places to stay, explore and eat near Summer Lake.

Summer Lake and Winter Ridge

On Dec. 16, 1843, Capt. John C. Frémont and a mapping expedition were trekking across a snow-covered plateau when they came to a cliff and saw a remarkable sight.

“More than a thousand feet below, we looked into a green prairie country, in which a beautiful lake, some twenty miles in length, was spread along the foot of the mountain,” Frémont wrote. “Shivering on snow three feet deep, and stiffening in a cold north wind, we exclaimed at once that the names of Summer Lake and Winter Ridge should be applied to these proximate places of such sudden and violent contrast.”

The name is fitting, especially in the spring. It can feel sunny and pleasant along Summer Lake while almost directly overhead, it’s snowing on 30-mile long Winter Ridge.

The dynamic scenery is the the first thing you notice upon driving here. It has the “whoa” factor as much as any place in Oregon.

The interesting thing is that while Summer Lake looks cool — 15 miles long and sparkling — it’s not a recreation spot itself. The lake is alkaline and shallow — not a place to boat, swim or explore. It’s really the places around its edges that create the magic.

Base camp: Summer Lake Hot Springs

This has become one of Oregon’s more beloved hot springs, but what struck me most in visiting was it’s still a small, low-impact site. You would never refer to this as a resort.

You can rent funky and cool cabins here, with geothermically warmed floors, along with RV spots and campsites. But the entire compound blends into the landscape so well it’s hard to spot it from a distance. It’s a place that lets the scenery and hot springs do the work.

Speaking of the hot springs. It has three outdoor pools open all night. By day, you can soak and enjoy views of the aforementioned Winter Ridge. At night, you can view one of the world’s darkest skies, part of the newly-established Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary .

By mid-May, an indoor swimming pool bathhouse opens up that allows for a little bit more space and access for hot springing.

Nearby gem: Summer Lake Wildlife Area

Nothing quite prepares you for the number of birds here during migration season at this wildlife area on the north side of the lake. The sky and wetlands are packed, and the sound is a chaotic symphony of chirps and trills as hundreds of thousands of birds migrate through here each year on the Pacific Flyway.

The wildlife area is 18,941 acres of wetlands and streams that becomes a temporary home for all manner of shorebirds and waterfoul, from tundra swans to western sandpipers to sandhill cranes.

The area has three main seasons for visitors, according to manager Jason Journey. There is the spring migration (March to May) and fall migration (August to September). Both times are good for birdwatching, hiking, photography and canoeing around the streams and wetlands. Apparently, mosquitoes and flies make it unpleasant during peak-summer.

The third option is hunting season, which runs from October to late January.

Ana Reservoir

The water in the wildlife area and Summer Lake comes directly from Ana Reservoir, a scenic place good for boating, swimming and fishing.

For anglers, the area is probably most famous for its population of hybrid striped bass — often known as “wipers.” They were stocked years ago to control the population of invasive tui chub, and the largest wiper on record was caught here in 2009.

Deepest history in North America

The history near Summer Lake goes deeper than just about anywhere else in North America.

Summer Lake is now about 15 miles long, which seems large, but it was once far larger. Prehistoric Lake Chewaucan once covered 461 square miles at depths of up to 375 feet.

The waves from that ancient lake cut a series of caves, now famously known as the Paisley Caves, which are home to the oldest evidence of human habitation in North America — up to 14,300 years ago.

Evidence of those ancient people can be found at Picture Rock Pass Petroglyphs Site, just north of Summer Lake on the side of Highway 31, likely created between 7,500 and 12,000 years ago.

Fort Rock Cave tours

The Paisley Caves aren’t the only famous historical site. Head to Fort Rock State Park, and you’ll not only be treated to a hike through a massive colosseum of stone, but you can also tour caves where the earliest known footwear on Earth was discovered.

Fort Rock Cave tours offered throughout spring and early summer cost $20. This is the site where the famous sagebrush sandals were discovered and dated to 9,350 to 10,500 years old.

Eat at the Cowboy Dinner Tree

The best restaurant in Oregon is a little place nestled deep in the Oregon Outback, about an hour from Summer Lake, called the Cowboy Dinner Tree . Their menu is simple: A gigantic top sirloin steak or a whole roasted chicken, plus salad, soup, sweet rolls and dessert.

It’s a place you don’t order your meal or make requests. There’s no vegetarian options, you can’t pick your dressing or even how your steak is cooked. You eat what you’re given. And they only take cash.

That model would seem to doom a restaurant, but the simplicity allows the restaurant to focus on doing what they do really well. The steak was the best I’ve ever eaten, cooked to that perfect spot that's rare but not raw. The chicken was flavorful and delicious.

The restaurant opened in 1992, but legend is that it goes back to the early 1900s. The place where the restaurant is located used to be a little shack where cowboys would seek shade under a juniper tree. Sometimes a chuckwagon would park there and cowboys and ranchers would gather to eat. Before it was the Cowboy Dinner Tree it was originally called the dinner tree.

The inside is rustic and packed with character, including lots of $1 bills tucked into the corners of pictures and tables. People started putting them there around a decade ago. The restaurant collects them every now and again and donates them to local charity.

From the setting to the scene, there is no place quite like it. Just make sure to make reservations way ahead of time by calling 541-576-2426 .

Ride the Christmas Valley sand dunes

Riding ATVs is popular at the Christmas Valley sand dunes, but there is some hiking as well.

Visit Paisley

This town of 250 features the Pioneer Saloon and Restaurant and the Paisley Mercantile, both worth checking out. And also …

Fly-fish the Chewaucan

If you’re fly-fishing, check out the much beloved Chewaucan River for rainbow trout. I’m saving this adventure for my next trip to the Oregon Outback, but there's a decent amount of information out there about it.

Hike Winter Ridge or Hager Mountain

For those looking to get into the alpine regions of the area, there are hikes on Winter Ridge, right above Summer Lake, that typically open up in late May. There is also Hager Mountain, a challenging mountain that climbs to a lookout. I wrote about staying overnight in the lookout back in 2016.

With this much possible adventure — and food — there’s good reason to visit, and keep coming back.

Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 15 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast . Urness is the author of “ Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon ” and “ Hiking Southern Oregon .” He can be reached at [email protected] or (503) 399-6801. Find him on X at @ZachsORoutdoors.

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The Lyrids meteor shower is peaking. Here's how to enjoy it with a bright moon

Huo Jingnan

A Leonid fireball is shown during the storm of 1966 in the sky above Wrightwood, Calif. NASA/Getty Images hide caption

A Leonid fireball is shown during the storm of 1966 in the sky above Wrightwood, Calif.

Stargazers can get ready to watch one of the oldest-known meteor showers soon — they'll just need to find some darkness from a nearly full moon.

The Lyrids meteor shower is active until April 29 and is predicted to peak overnight from Sunday into Monday, according to the American Meteor Society. It's best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere, the group says.

Views throughout the night will change as Lyra, the constellation from which the shower radiates and gets its name, moves through the sky. Lyra hangs high at dawn so that will be a better time to view, the AMS says .

The nearly full moon over the weekend will make it more difficult to see the meteor shower, but viewers can still see some, and it always helps to make the sky you're looking at as dark as possible. Astronomy website EarthSky advises avoiding city lights as you would in most stargazes, but it also suggests finding a place where the moon can be blocked from view, like in the shadows of a mountain or under trees.

A rare fireball flew over Maine. Now there's a $25K reward for pieces of space rock

Meteor watchers should prepare to stay warm and lie back. NASA recommends lying with your feet facing east, and allow 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Photography fans will need slower shutter speed, higher ISO and the stability of a tripod to capture the shooting stars.

While we are unlikely to see bright trains from the Lyrids' travel through the Earth's atmosphere, we can watch out for bright flashes called fireballs, according to NASA.

Fireballs are brighter than the planet Venus. NASA has set up over a dozen cameras across the country to record them. The agency says the data helps them better understand objects floating in space near the Earth and is important for spacecraft designers.

Never seen an exploding star? This year, you'll have your chance

The first recorded sighting of the Lyrids came from Chinese people over 2,700 years ago. Meteor showers happen when the Earth passes through the trail of dust and debris that comets and asteroids leave behind when they come around the sun. The Lyrids come from the trail of comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher , which was discovered by amateur astronomer A.E. Thatcher in 1861.

While the Earth passes through the comet's trail every year, it takes over 400 years for Comet Thatcher to orbit the sun. The last time it reached its closest point to the sun was in the year it was discovered.

The next meteor shower for the Earth is the Eta Aquariids that is better viewed from the southern tropics in early May, according to the AMS. The next one people in North America can see well is the Alpha Capricornids at the end of July. The moon will be darker then.

• lyrid meteor shower
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Lyrid meteor shower 2024: How to watch stunning shooting stars and 'fireballs' during the event's peak this week

The annual Lyrid meteor shower peaks between April 21 and 22 this year, potentially offering views of hundreds of shooting stars and rare "fireballs." Here's where and when to catch the cosmic light show.

The Lyrid meteor shower has officially begun and the sky show's spectacular peak, which could see hundreds of shooting stars and "fireballs" fill the night sky, is scheduled to begin later this week. But what are the Lyrids? When exactly do they peak? And where is the best place to look for them? 

The Lyrids, which were first observed by humans around 2,700 years ago, are one of the oldest meteor showers on record, according to NASA . They are not quite as magnificent as some other meteor showers, such as the Perseids . However, at their best, the Lyrids are known to produce bright exploding space rocks, known as fireball meteors , and leave persistent trails of light, known as meteor trains, that remain in the sky for several seconds.

These meteors come from the dusty trail left behind by Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher , which orbits the sun every 415.5 years. Once a year, Earth passes through the comet's expansive debris field, causing disconnected chunks of the comet to burn up in our atmosphere, giving the impression of shooting stars racing across the night sky.

The annual event normally lasts for around two weeks in April but is most prominent during a roughly day-long peak. This year, the Lyrids began on April 15 and will continue until April 29. However, they will peak between Sunday (April 21) and Monday (April 22). 

Normally, dozens of meteors light up the sky every hour during this period, according to NASA. But this shower is also known for rare surges that can bring as many as 100 meteors an hour. However, this has only happened a handful of times over the last 200 years.

Related: How many meteorites hit Earth every year?

Unfortunately, this year's peak coincides with an almost full "pink moon," which will become full on April 23 . As a result, the light from our cosmic companion will obscure most of the peak, meaning the meteors will likely not be as spectacular as in other years, EarthSky reported . 

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But don't let this put you off. 

The best time to see the Lyrids will be just before dawn on April 22 when the moon is at its lowest. At this point, you should still be able to see dozens of bright meteors — as long as there isn't too much cloud cover or light pollution near you.

The shower is best viewed with the naked eye anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere. Even the best telescopes and stargazing binoculars will only impede your view during a meteor shower — though there will be plenty of other great stargazing opportunities in 2024 to use them.

— Eerie green fireball detected hours before smashing into Lake Ontario

— Meteorites from flaming fireball over Mississippi scattered across the state

— Watch a gargantuan fireball tumble over New York in the dead of night

The meteors' radiant — the point in the sky where they appear to be coming from — is around Vega in the constellation Lyra, also known as the Harp — but they can appear anywhere in the sky. Vega is one of the brightest stars in the sky so it shouldn't be too hard to find. However, NASA recommends that you look slightly away from the radiant so you can see longer, stretched-out shooting stars. If you look head-on, they will appear to be much more truncated.

For the best views, head to a viewing spot away from city lights. You can consult a light pollution map to find dark areas with the best chances of seeing the shooting stars.

If you miss the peak, don't worry. If you go outside on the nights either side of the peak and look up for at least half an hour or so, you should still be able to spot at least one of these space rocks twinkle in the sky as they die a fiery death.

Harry is a U.K.-based senior staff writer at Live Science. He studied marine biology at the University of Exeter before training to become a journalist. He covers a wide range of topics including space exploration, planetary science, space weather, climate change, animal behavior, evolution and paleontology. His feature on the upcoming solar maximum was shortlisted in the "top scoop" category at the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) Awards for Excellence in 2023. 

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Novo-peredelkino.

Visit Novo-Peredelkino

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You can learn about the history of Moscow with a trip to Red Square. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.

• Moscow Kremlin

Visit the most iconic square in Russia, which is bordered by many of the city’s most famous landmarks.

• St. Basil's Cathedral

Think of Russia and you probably picture this iconic building, whose onion-shaped domes overlook the Moscow skyline.

• Bolshoi Theatre

A centerpiece of the Russian arts scene, this theater’s magnificent auditorium and top-tier productions will impress even the most jaded theatergoer.

• Lenin's Mausoleum

Mourners and curious visitors stream to the grave to see the embalmed Vladimir Lenin, the famous revolutionary and one-time leader of the Soviet Union.

Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy

Learn about the events happening at Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy during your trip to Moscow. Wander the parks and gardens while you're in the area.

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Other neighbourhoods around novo-peredelkino.

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Moskovskiy and surrounding area, you can visit Vnukovo Airport Public Museum of Battle and Labor Glory and Peredelkino Dacha Complex.

Rumyantsevo

While Rumyantsevo might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Prince Plaza and Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God in Uzkoye.

Tyoply Stan District

While you're in Tyoply Stan District, take in top sights like Troparevsky Forest Park and jump on the metro at Konkovo Station to see more of the city.

Konkovo District

While you're in Konkovo District, take in top sights like Orlov Museum of Paleontology and jump on the metro at Belyayevo Station to see more of the city.

South-Western Administrative Okrug

While you're in South-Western Administrative Okrug, take in top sights like Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God in Uzkoye or Church of the Intercession of the Holy Virgin, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Konkovo Station or Yasenevo Station.

You might enjoy the shopping while in Shelepikha. Battle of Borodino Panorama Museum is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Kutuzovskaya Station or Mezhdunarodnaya Station to see more of the city.

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A cozy place for a summer night - Aist

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“A cozy place for a summer night” Review of Aist

Quite place just in the heart of Moscow. Tasty food, attentive staff. They also serve there tasty waterpipes.

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53 - 57 of 375 reviews

Went there with a friend of mine on a warm summer evening. Had a very nice dinner on their roof-top terrace that overlooks a nice neighborhood with many trees. The service was attentive, food nice, but quite pricey - most seafood is by the 100 grams, and langoustines can weigh quite a bit as we learned. It is a place for the Moscow in-crowd, lots of big cars and their chauffeurs waiting outside. Worth a visit especially on warm sunny days, but if your focus is on food, not ambience, then there a less pricey options around.

We've ended up there a few times by now. The menu never disappoints and we've been getting delicious dishes every time. Furthermore, they have a good wine selection which is overall well-fitting with the food on the menu. the atmosphere is cozy albeit a bit formal. The main problem however is CIGARETTE SMOKE. It's an issue across the board in Moscow, but in this place it's especially bad. Poor ventilation system can ruin which is otherwise a fantastic culinary experience.

Aist Cafe is a great place to visit any time of the year. However if you go in the summer time you can eat outside on the ground floor patio, inside in the relaxed cafe style area, first floor with a more traditional restaurant lay out and watch the chefs at work or on the roof patio. The food is generally international leaning towards Italian due to the chef's origins. Fish courses are particularly good with fresh catch each day. The young staff are generally attentive and most speak some English. Though I did once witness the owner, Arkady Novikov cracking the whip on his staff. He does set high standards. All menus are Russian/English so finger pointing is no problem with the waiters for your choice! A good wine list though not unexpected prices are steep though there is normally a good South African or even a classy Graves under GBP100! After many visits I usually lean towards fish courses but this is purely down to taste. Expensive? Yes but the quality of food is good and generally the staff very helpful. If you want to be brave try ordering their specially brewed ginger tea it is addictive!

Went to Aist cafe a few times during my one week stay in Moscow. Excellent food. Sunday brunch was very delicious as well as the usual dinner menu. VERY nice and friendly staff. A friend of mine who doesn't speak any Russian was able to order in English and surprisingly got the right order. Considering how rude the crowd can be at other places it is impressive that these folks stay so chill and helpful. Interior decor is classy and cozy. Loved it so much especially the roof top. Highly recommend this place to both locals and visitors. I was impressed.

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