Day Trips from Portland, Oregon: 10 Unique Itineraries

If you’re into history, river views, and a little coastal charm, Astoria is your kind of town. Sitting right on the Columbia River in northern Oregon, this port city is packed with character—and fun fact: it’s actually the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, dating all the way back to 1811.

Start your visit at the iconic Astoria Column. It’s perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the river, the ocean, and even parts of Washington on a clear day.

Highlights:

• Astoria Column with panoramic views and historic murals
• Interactive exhibits at the Columbia River Maritime Museum
• Scenic hike up Saddle Mountain
• Liberty Theater and Oregon Film Museum in historic downtown
• Local nightlife at the quirky Voodoo Room

Pro Tip:

Bring a windbreaker—Astoria’s got those classic coastal breezes year-round, especially up at the column or out on the riverfront.

Astoria, Clatsop County, Oregon
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What to See Between Portland and Astoria

• Sauvie Island – Just outside Portland; great for birdwatching, beaches, and u-pick farms in season.
• Scappoose-Vernonia Trail – A peaceful, forested trail perfect for a quick hike or bike ride.
• Clatskanie Riverfront Park – A small, relaxing stop with a view and picnic area.
• St. Helens, OR – Charming river town with antique shops and the filming location for Halloweentown.
• Rainier, OR – Offers a cool view of the Lewis & Clark Bridge and nearby parks.
• Clatskanie, OR – Quiet little town with historic buildings and local cafes.

If you’re looking for sunshine, mountain views, and a chill small-city vibe, Bend is the place to be. Tucked along the Deschutes River and just west of the Cascade Mountains, this Central Oregon gem gets more than 300 days of sun a year—and it’s no wonder it’s been called one of the best places to live in the U.S.

Highlights:

• 300+ days of sunshine and gorgeous mountain scenery
• Downtown Bend's unique shops, coffee spots, and live music venues
• 300+ miles of trails and year-round outdoor adventures
• World-famous skiing and snowboarding at Mount Bachelor
• The last Blockbuster Video store on Earth

Pro Tip:

Rent a bike and cruise the river trail—it’s an easy way to explore town and hit breweries, shops, and parks all in one ride.

Bend, Deschutes County, Oregon
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What to See Between Portland and Bend

• Mount Hood – Iconic peak with skiing, hiking, and stunning alpine views year-round.
• Timberline Lodge – Historic 1930s lodge and filming site for The Shining.
• Trillium Lake – Peaceful spot for paddling, fishing, or a picnic with a Mt. Hood backdrop.
• Government Camp – Cozy mountain village with shops, cafes, and ski rentals.
• Warm Springs Museum – Explore Native American history and culture in a scenic high desert setting.
• Smith Rock State Park – World-famous for rock climbing, hiking, and incredible canyon views.

If you're craving mountain views and outdoor adventures, it doesn't get much better than Mount Hood. Just about an hour southeast of Portland, this iconic 11,250-foot peak is the tallest in Oregon—and one of the most recognizable in the entire U.S.

Highlights:

• Oregon’s tallest peak at 11,250 feet
• 1,200+ miles of trails in Mount Hood National Forest
• Six ski areas, including Timberline and Mt. Hood Meadows
• Year-round skiing at Timberline Lodge
• Scenic hikes, waterfalls, and alpine lakes in every direction

Pro Tip:

Even if you’re not skiing, take a drive up to Timberline Lodge for the views—and a hot drink by the fire. Bonus: it was the exterior filming location for *The Shining*.

Mount Hood, Cascade Range, Oregon
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What to See Between Portland, Oregon and Mount Hood

• Sandy, OR – Gateway to Mt. Hood with cafes, gear shops, and scenic mountain views.
• Jonsrud Viewpoint – Quick stop for a postcard-perfect view of Mt. Hood over the Sandy River.
• Wildwood Recreation Site – Family-friendly spot with forest trails, river access, and interactive nature displays.
• Salmon River Trail – Serene hiking trail through old-growth forest and along the river.
• Mirror Lake Trailhead – Popular short hike with rewarding reflections of Mt. Hood on calm water.
• Government Camp – Charming alpine village with food, shops, and access to ski areas and trails.

If sipping world-class wine with a view sounds like your kind of vibe, The Willamette Valley should be high on your list. This stunning stretch of Oregon is the heart of Pacific Northwest wine country, home to 500+ wineries—and some of the best Pinot Noir on the planet.

Highlights:

• 500+ wineries spread across 19,000 scenic acres
• Top-notch Pinot Noir and cool-climate varietals
• Stunning valley views framed by three mountain ranges
• Charming towns with art galleries, shops, and restaurants
• Perfect for wine trails, weekend getaways, or scenic drives

Pro Tip:

Skip the big names on weekends and pop into smaller, family-run tasting rooms—you’ll often get more personal pours and fewer crowds.

Willamette Valley, Oregon
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What to See Between Portland, Oregon and the Willamette Valley

• Oregon City – Historic end of the Oregon Trail with museums and Willamette Falls viewpoints.
• Canby – Known for its flower farms and the scenic Canby Ferry across the Willamette River.
• Silver Falls State Park – Stunning park with the Trail of Ten Falls, a loop with waterfalls you can walk behind.
• Woodburn – Visit the Woodburn Premium Outlets or explore nearby tulip fields in spring.
• Mt. Angel – Quaint Bavarian town famous for its Oktoberfest and stunning Benedictine Abbey.
• Wine Country – Stop in Dundee, McMinnville, or Newberg for world-class Pinot Noir and wine tasting rooms.

If you're in the mood for a peaceful soak in the woods, Bagby Hot Springs is calling your name. Tucked deep in the Cascade Mountains, about an hour southeast of Portland, this rustic gem in Mount Hood National Forest is the ultimate back-to-nature retreat.

Highlights:

• Natural mineral hot springs deep in Mount Hood National Forest
• Main spring flows at 138°F with multiple soaking options
• Three rustic bathhouses open daily
• Five cedar log tubs + two Japanese-style soaking tubs
• Peaceful forest setting, perfect for unplugging

Pro Tip:

Bring a flashlight if you’re soaking near sunset—the hike in is about 1.5 miles and it gets dark fast in the forest. Also: no alcohol allowed, so keep it chill and respectful.

Bagby Hot Springs, Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

Discover more Hot Springs Near Portland, Oregon.

What to See Between Portland, Oregon and Bagby Hot Springs

• Estacada – Small artsy town with riverside charm, local eats, and a great launch point into the forest.
• Faraday Lake – Scenic stop for a quick stroll or picnic along the Clackamas River.
• North Fork Reservoir – Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, or soaking in peaceful mountain views.
• Ripplebrook Ranger Station – Gateway to the Mt. Hood National Forest with maps, info, and trail access.
• Clackamas River Scenic Drive – Enjoy a winding forest road with river views, hiking spots, and wildlife.
• Bagby Trail – 1.5-mile hike through old-growth forest leading to the famous cedar soaking tubs.

Day Trips from Portland for Families with Teens and Tweens

If you’re road-tripping through Eastern Oregon and want a peaceful stop with some unexpected charm, Boardman is a hidden gem. Nestled along the Columbia River, this small town is perfect for nature lovers and foodies who like their adventures a little off the beaten path.

Highlights:

• Interactive ag and energy exhibits at the SAGE Center
• Fishing, hunting, birding, and water sports on the Columbia River
• Home to top dairy production for Tillamook Creamery
• Burnt Field Brewing in a restored train depot
• Classic eats at C&D Drive-In and fruit-inspired beers at Ordnance Brewing

Pro Tip:

Time your visit around sunset—the Columbia River views are seriously stunning, and the light makes for perfect golden hour photos (and a great backdrop for that milkshake or beer).

Boardman, Morrow County, Oregon
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What to See Between Portland, Oregon and Boardman, Oregon

• Multnomah Falls – Oregon’s tallest waterfall; a must-stop for photos and short hikes.
• Bonneville Dam & Fish Hatchery – Learn about salmon runs and see “Herman the Sturgeon.”
• Hood River – Wind-sport capital with craft breweries, fruit stands, and Columbia River views.
• Mosier Twin Tunnels Trail – Scenic walk or bike ride along a restored section of the Historic Columbia River Highway.
• The Dalles – Explore pioneer history, museums, and local wineries.
• Celilo Park – Riverside park near a historic Native American fishing site.
• Maryhill Museum of Art – An elegant museum in the desert with Rodin sculptures and Columbia River views.
• Stonehenge Memorial – A full-scale WWI tribute replicating England’s Stonehenge, perched above the river.
• Boardman Marina Park – Peaceful spot along the Columbia River for walking, birdwatching, or launching a kayak.

If you’re dreaming of moody ocean views, dramatic rock formations, and cozy coastal vibes, Cannon Beach is your go-to spot on the Oregon Coast. Just a couple hours from Portland, this charming town has been named one of the world’s most beautiful places—and once you’re standing on the sand looking up at Haystack Rock, you’ll totally get why.

Highlights:

• Iconic Haystack Rock and four miles of beach
• Scenic hikes and coastal views at Ecola and Oswald West State Parks
• Tide pools, sea caves, and a hidden waterfall at Hug Point
• Charming downtown with galleries, shops, and cafés
• Named one of the world’s 100 most beautiful places by *National Geographic*

Pro Tip:

Plan your beach walks around low tide for the best tide pool exploring near Haystack Rock—and bring a camera, because the sunsets here are next level.

Cannon Beach, Clatsop County, Oregon
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What to See Between Portland, Oregon and Cannon Beach

• Sauvie Island – Just outside Portland; great for birdwatching, beaches, and seasonal farm stands.
• Scappoose – Small town stop with local cafes and views of the Columbia River.
• Camp 18 Logging Museum & Restaurant – Massive log cabin with hearty food and historic logging equipment.
• Nehalem River Scenic Byway – Lush detour with river views, forested curves, and quiet beauty.
• Hug Point State Recreation Site – Just before Cannon Beach; walk to waterfalls, caves, and tide pools at low tide.
• Arcadia Beach – Secluded spot for a peaceful walk and ocean views just south of Cannon Beach.

If you're looking for that classic Oregon Coast vibe—pine trees, ocean views, and salty air—Cape Lookout State Park is the perfect escape. Just about 90 minutes west of Portland, this peaceful spot on Netarts Bay started out as U.S. Lighthouse Service land before getting some upgrades from the Civilian Conservation Corps back in the 1930s.

Highlights:

• Three miles of beach along scenic Netarts Bay
• Two-mile headland nature trail through coastal forest
• Whale watching, paragliding, and hang gliding
• Interpretive center with local history and nature info
• Overnight options include campsites, yurts, and cabins

Pro Tip:

Book yurts or cabins early—they go fast, especially on summer weekends. And pack layers—it can go from sunny to foggy real quick on the coast.

13000 Whiskey Creek Rd, Tillamook, OR 97141
Phone: 800-551-6949

What to See Between Portland, Oregon and Cape Lookout State Park

• Sauvie Island – Optional early detour for farm stands, wildlife viewing, and river beaches.
• Banks–Vernonia State Trail – Forested trail for walking or biking through quiet countryside.
• Tillamook Forest Center – Interactive exhibits, suspension bridge, and hikes along the Wilson River.
• Wilson River Highway Scenic Corridor – Lush drive with access to swimming holes and waterfalls.
• Tillamook Creamery – Classic Oregon stop for ice cream, cheese samples, and self-guided tours.
• Cape Meares Scenic Loop – Detour with ocean cliffs, lighthouse, and the famous Octopus Tree.
• Netarts Bay – Quiet bay for kayaking, clamming, or a peaceful seafood lunch.

If you’re chasing big views, waterfalls, and a side of adventure, The Columbia River Gorge absolutely delivers. This 80-mile stretch of canyon carves its way through the Cascades and is packed with some of the Pacific Northwest’s most jaw-dropping scenery.

Highlights:

• Multnomah Falls and Crown Point views
• Mountain biking at Post Canyon
• Windsurfing and paddleboarding in Hood River
• Scenic drives on the Historic Columbia River Highway
• Wineries, breweries, and the 35-mile Fruit Loop trail

Pro Tip:

Go early in the day to beat the crowds at Multnomah Falls—and bring a light rain jacket, even in summer. Mist happens.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon
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What to See Between Portland, Oregon and the Columbia River Gorge

• Troutdale – Gateway town to the Gorge with antique shops and the Historic Columbia River Highway start point.
• Vista House at Crown Point – Stunning panoramic views of the Gorge and a historic observatory.
• Latourell Falls – A short hike leads to a tall, photogenic plunge waterfall near the road.
• Bridal Veil Falls – Quick, peaceful walk through forest to a romantic double waterfall.
• Multnomah Falls – Oregon’s most famous waterfall, with bridge views and hiking trails above.
• Wahkeena & Horsetail Falls – Two beautiful falls, great for a loop hike or roadside stop.
• Bonneville Dam & Fish Hatchery – Educational stop with historic dam tours and fish viewing windows.

If you’re after a mix of artsy vibes, outdoor fun, and seriously good eats, Eugene is your kind of town. Just two hours south of Portland, this picturesque spot on the Willamette River is known for its green spaces, creative energy, and that signature laid-back Oregon charm.

Highlights:

• Scenic Mount Pisgah Arboretum with 85 acres of nature trails
• University of Oregon’s art and natural history museums
• Local eats at Fifth Street Public Market and Kesey Square
• Theater and music at the Hult Center
• Beautiful parks like Alton Baker and Hendricks Park

Pro Tip:

Visit in spring when Eugene’s flowers are in full bloom—and rent a bike to cruise the city’s scenic river paths like a local.

Eugene, Lane County, Oregon
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What to See Between Portland, Oregon and Eugene, Oregon

• Oregon City – Historic end of the Oregon Trail with views of Willamette Falls.
• Canby – Charming town with seasonal flower farms and the scenic Canby Ferry.
• Silverton – Detour to see Silver Falls State Park, home to the famous Trail of Ten Falls.
• Salem – Oregon’s capital; visit the Capitol building, Riverfront Park, and Willamette University area.
• Albany – Known for its historic downtown, covered bridges, and seasonal events.
• Brownsville – Quaint, movie-famous town (*Stand By Me*) with old-time charm and small museums.
• Willamette Valley Wine Country – Detour to towns like Dundee or Corvallis for world-class wine tasting.