Places to Visit in Oregon

Oregon

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What makes Oregon an exciting destination?
- Boasting over 360 miles of scenic coastline together with a diverse landscape comprising mountains, forests, rivers, and a fossil-studded desert, Oregon is an exciting destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
What activities can visitors enjoy in Oregon?
- For a change of pace, you can take long romantic beach walks, sample fresh seafood, visit a winery, or head to one of the vibrant Oregon cities.
What are the best places to visit in Oregon?
- Here are the best places to visit in Oregon.

Best Time to Visit Oregon

May to June – Lush green landscapes, waterfalls at full flow, and ideal for hiking and nature trips.
September to October – Mild fall weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful changing colors in the valleys and forests.
July & August – Warm and dry, perfect for coast trips, festivals, and exploring the outdoors.
December to February – Rainy in the west, snowy in the mountains—great for skiing and cozy retreats.
Early July – Wildflower season in the mountains and clear skies for outdoor adventures.

Multnomah Falls

Admire towering waterfalls and walk along misty trails during a quick day trip.

Multnomah Falls

What is Multnomah Falls?
- The majestic Multnomah Falls is a must-visit attraction in the Mount Hood/Columbia Gorge region of Oregon.
How can visitors reach Multnomah Falls?
- The falls are just a 30-minute drive on the I-84 from Portland, making it a perfect day trip.
What is the legend behind Multnomah Falls?
- According to legend, the falls once provided a private place for a princess to bathe, but today, everyone can enjoy this impressive natural masterpiece.
Where is the best place to view the falls?
- You can see part of the 611-foot falls from the highway, but for the best view, take a five-minute walk to the mist-shrouded base of the falls.
- From there, a short climb will bring you to the Benson Bridge in Benson State Recreation Area, which offers an excellent viewpoint.

Astoria

Explore historic streets and savor coastal views on a weekend getaway.

Astoria

What makes Astoria a unique destination?
- As the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains, Astoria is packed with history and small-town charm, offering a variety of cultural and outdoor activities for weekenders.
What cultural attractions can visitors explore in Astoria?
- Art enthusiasts can visit galleries, studios, and unique shops around town.
- Visitors can enjoy a concert at the historic Liberty Theater.
What historical sites can visitors explore?
- You can explore Astoria’s historic working waterfront by riding the Astoria Trolley.
- Learn about the region’s rich fishing industry at the Bumble Bee Cannery Museum.
- Discover maritime history at the Maritime Museum.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Astoria?
- Take advantage of Astoria’s idyllic waterfront location by trying your hand at fishing or clam-digging.

Hood River, Oregon

Discover scenic vineyards and go windsurfing on an exciting summer adventure.

Hood River, Oregon

What makes Hood River a great place to visit?
- Hood River is a delightful small town that serves as a perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of the Hood River and the Columbia River Gorge.
What adventure activities are available in Hood River?
- Hood River offers easy access to a variety of outdoor adventure activities, including hiking, windsurfing, kite-boarding, and river rafting.
What cultural attractions can visitors explore?
- Visitors can admire art and culture while strolling through the beautifully restored historic downtown.
- Art lovers can visit galleries or watch a show at the Columbia Center for the Arts.
What food and drink experiences are available?
- Foodies can indulge in tastings and tours at local wineries, breweries, coffee roasters, and farm-to-fork restaurants.
- Visitors can also drive the scenic Hood River County Fruit Loop to sample fresh farm produce.

Cannon Beach

Walk along sandy shores and look at iconic Haystack Rock on a romantic visit.

Cannon Beach

What makes Cannon Beach a popular destination?
- Cannon Beach is one of Oregon’s most popular seaside villages, offering visitors an amazing stretch of beach to explore, iconic landmarks, and easy access to miles of hiking and biking trails.
What cultural attractions can visitors explore?
- Cannon Beach has been named one of America’s top 100 Best Art Towns and is packed with wonderful galleries and studios.
- Visitors can explore fascinating museums such as the Garibaldi Museum of Maritime History and the Coaster Theater Playhouse.
What adventure activities are available in Cannon Beach?
- Thrill-seekers can try a zip-line tour with High Life Adventures.
- Hikers can explore a rainforest at Ecola State Park.
What unique wildlife can be seen at Cannon Beach?
- Visitors can uncover amazing marine life around Haystack Rock.
- In early summer, Tufted Puffins can be spotted at Haystack Rock.

Eugene

Visit vibrant markets and explore artsy neighborhoods on an affordable Oregon trip.

Eugene

What types of attractions can visitors enjoy in Eugene?
- Eugene offers a diverse collection of historical, outdoor, and cultural attractions for visitors.
What historical and cultural sites are worth visiting?
- Art and history enthusiasts can visit the historic Shelton McMurphy Johnson House (1888).
- Visitors can explore the Museum of Natural and Cultural History and the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art.
Are there educational attractions for families?
- Families can combine fun with education at the Oregon Air and Space Museum.
- Kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Eugene Science Center, which also features a planetarium.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Eugene?
- Nature lovers can cycle just about anywhere in town along a network of paved trails.
- Hikers can explore the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail.
- Adventurers can climb the basalt columns at Skinner Butte Park.
What food and drink experiences does Eugene offer?
- Foodies can enjoy a craft brewery tour and dine at farm-to-fork restaurants.
- Visitors can browse fresh local produce at the farmers’ market in Eugene.

Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

Hike forest trails and admire mountain views on a fun family adventure.

Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

What is Mount Hood National Forest?
- The Mount Hood National Forest stretches across 60 miles of lushly forested mountains, lakes, and streams, just south of the spectacular Columbia Gorge, about 20 miles east of Portland.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy?
- The forest offers outdoor enthusiasts an idyllic destination for a wide variety of activities, including camping, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, boating, and swimming.
- Visitors can also relax in the natural Bagby Hot Springs.
What winter activities are available?
- In winter, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding, among other seasonal activities.
Are there educational programs available?
- Visitors can take advantage of ranger-led educational programs and tours.
- Young visitors can participate in free fishing lessons.
Where can visitors camp in Mount Hood National Forest?
- There are dozens of campsites where visitors can pitch a tent or park an RV to spend a few nights communing with nature.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

See dramatic cliffs and waterfalls on an easy, scenic drive through top attractions.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

What is the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area?
- The beautiful and diverse landscape of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a magnet for outdoor adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Can visitors camp in the Columbia River Gorge?
- Yes! Visitors can bring a tent or RV and spend a few nights under the stars in one of three designated campsites.
What outdoor activities are available?
- Visitors can take a scenic drive through the extensive area, go on day hikes, or choose longer backpacking adventures along dozens of scenic trails that offer wildlife viewing en route.
- Other popular activities include biking, fishing, boating, swimming, tubing, and windsurfing.
- Several areas within the Gorge are accessible for visitors with mobility restrictions.
Are there cultural attractions in the Columbia River Gorge?
- The area features several museums showcasing the region’s history and natural beauty.
- Visitors can even combine great views with great beer on the Gorge Beer Trail.

Jacksonville

Stroll through historic streets and savor local wines in a charming retirement town.

Jacksonville

What makes Jacksonville a unique destination?
- Visiting Jacksonville is like stepping back in time to the gold rush era, as the entire downtown has been declared a National Historic Area.
How can visitors learn about Jacksonville’s history?
- Visitors can explore the town’s history on a guided or self-guided tour.
- A fun way to discover Jacksonville is by hopping aboard the vintage Jacksonville Trolley.
Is Jacksonville known for wine tasting?
- Yes! Many visitors come to Jacksonville for wine tasting at some of the 60 wineries in the area along the famous Jacksonville Wine Trail and the Applegate Wine Trail.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy?
- Visitors can go hiking, biking, and horseback riding along a variety of trails.
- Adventure seekers can try a Rogue Jet Boat Adventure or go river rafting with Indigo Creek Outfitters.
What food and drink experiences does Jacksonville offer?
- Foodies can explore Jacksonville’s culinary scene, which ranges from cozy coffee shops to fine-dining restaurants.

Salem

Visit state landmarks and explore blooming gardens during a beautiful spring weekend.

Salem

What makes Salem a great place to visit?
- Nestled in the heart of the wine-growing Willamette Valley, Salem is surrounded by vineyards and filled with historical and cultural attractions for all ages.
What historical and cultural attractions are in Salem?
- A great starting point is the gracious Oregon State Capitol building.
- Visitors can learn about the early days of Salem at the Deepwood Museum and Gardens, the Bush House Museum, and the Oregon State Hospital Museum.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy?
- Outdoor enthusiasts can go hiking, biking, boating, and fishing in the Willamette Mission State Park.
- Visitors looking for a unique experience can treat themselves to a thrilling hot air balloon ride.
What family-friendly attractions are in Salem?
- Families with young children will love the Gilbert House Children’s Museum and the Enchanted Forest Theme Park.
What food and drink experiences does Salem offer?
- Foodies can enjoy visiting wineries in the Willamette Valley and exploring the local farmers’ market.

Best Time to Visit	Places to Stay	Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers.	The Allison Inn & Spa (Newberg) – A luxurious retreat in Oregon’s wine country.	See the Tulip Fields at Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival – Experience breathtaking fields of colorful tulips.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and dry, perfect for outdoor adventures.	Timberline Lodge (Mt. Hood) – A historic mountain lodge with stunning views.	Hike Crater Lake National Park – Visit the deepest lake in the U.S. and enjoy incredible scenery.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning autumn foliage.	Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge (Gold Beach) – A peaceful riverside retreat on the Oregon coast.	Drive the Columbia River Gorge – See waterfalls and vibrant fall colors along this scenic highway.
Winter (December-February) – Snow in the mountains, rain in the valleys, perfect for cozy retreats.	Salishan Coastal Lodge (Gleneden Beach) – A cozy resort with ocean views and spa amenities.	Storm Watch on the Oregon Coast – Experience dramatic waves and rugged beauty from Cannon Beach or Depoe Bay.

Map:

Plan Your Trip

Table of Contents:

1. Multnomah Falls
2. Astoria
3. Hood River, Oregon
4. Cannon Beach
5. Eugene
6. Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon
7. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
8. Jacksonville
9. Salem