Need a wine country getaway or small-town escape in Oregon? Head to McMinnville! Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, McMinnville offers world-class wineries, charming shops, and a rich aviation history. Whether you're sipping Pinot Noir, browsing boutiques, or chasing UFO lore, McMinnville is full of quirky, cozy, and classy surprises.
McMinnville, OR Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike Miller Woods – Explore forested trails, wildlife viewing, and beautiful valley views just minutes from town.
- For History Buffs: Visit Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum – Home of the Spruce Goose, space exhibits, and vintage aircraft.
- For Shoppers: Stroll Historic Third Street – Discover art galleries, indie bookstores, wine tasting rooms, and boutiques in a walkable downtown.
- For Couples: Wine tasting in Willamette Valley – Sample world-famous Pinot Noir at intimate vineyards and scenic tasting rooms.
- For Families: Play and learn at Wings & Waves Waterpark – Waterpark with slides, wave pool, and even a Boeing 747 on the roof!
When I like to visit McMinnville, OR
The best time to visit McMinnville is from May to October when the weather is ideal for wine tasting, strolling downtown, and enjoying vineyard views and outdoor events.
Tips for getting to McMinnville, OR
- If you are traveling by car: McMinnville is located on Highway 99W, about 1 hour southwest of Portland and 1.5 hours from the Oregon Coast.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), with car rentals or shuttles available to reach McMinnville.
- By Bus: Yamhill County Transit connects McMinnville to nearby cities like Salem and Hillsboro.
Where I like to stay in McMinnville, OR
- Recommended for Families: Comfort Inn & Suites McMinnville – Convenient location near the Evergreen Museum, with a pool and free breakfast.
- For Couples: Atticus Hotel – Boutique downtown hotel with luxury touches and Oregon-inspired design.
- For a Boutique Hotel Stay: 3rd Street Flats – Stylish, apartment-style suites right on McMinnville’s main street.
Best Things to Do in McMinnville, OR
1. Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum
The Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum is an inspirational and educational experience that teaches visitors about the achievements in aviation and space travel. The displays on-site feature the history of aircraft with a focus on the human endeavors that have built upon mathematics, sciences, and the human spirits desire to go beyond our limitations. The Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum offers guided tours and engaging programs for flight enthusiasts of all ages. Popular exhibits at the museum include the famous wooden airplane, the Spruce Goose, built by Howard Hughes during World War II and the Titan II Missile booster rocket where guests can experience a space launch simulation.
500 NE Captain Michael King Smith Way, McMinnville, OR 97128, Phone: 503-434-4180
2. Willamette Valley Vineyards Tasting Room
Willamette Valley Vineyards was founded in 1983 by winemaker Jim Bernau who’s boyhood curiosity led him to take frozen grape juice and knowledge from the family encyclopedias and ferment a batch of homemade wine when he was only 10 years old. Eventually, young Jim ventured off to college at UC Davis and then to Beaune, France where his passion for wine and vineyard management flourished. Early struggles and solid determination pushed Jim to build a farm of sustainability with collaborative efforts from Oregon’s family of vintners. His hard work has given his winery the honor of America’s Great Pinot Noir producer by Wine Enthusiast.
Willamette Valley Vineyards Tasting Room, 300 NE 3rd St., McMinnville, OR 97128, Phone: 503-883-9013
3. Maysara Winery
Maysara Winery grew from the reclaimed land of an abandoned wheat farm south of McMinnville that Moe and Flora Momtazi bought in April of 1997. They fell in love with the untamed rolling hills and made a promise to take time and cultivate an all-natural vineyard and began the journey with 13-acres of pinot noir vines. Moe and Flora created Maysara Winery with an understanding that great wines can only come from well-maintained, chemical-free vineyards. Exquisite quality grapes are the reward for meticulous and passionate care of the vines and the resulting award-winning wines keep customers coming back.
15765 SW Muddy Valley Rd, McMinnville, OR 97128, Phone: 503-843-1234
For Younger Couples:
4. Visit McMinnville
Visit McMinnville broke ground in 2014 with a mission to promote the community of McMinnville as a year-round vacation and visitor destination. The goal of this initiative is to enrich the robustness of the bustling community and the city council has paved the way to cultivate a haven of culture and history that radiates a warm welcome to all who come and explore the beauty and reverence of this growing town. Visit McMinnville strives to provide the best information and services of tourism to visitors, businesses in the community, and prospective companies interested in becoming a part of Oregon’s culture and pride.
328 NE Davis St #1, McMinnville, OR 97128, Phone: 503-857-0182
5. Coeur de Terre Vineyard
Coeur de Terre Vineyard found its home in the Willamette Valley by happenstance. In 1998, Scott and Lisa Neal went out in search of the ideal place to build their dream vineyard. The got lost while scouting out locations when they stumbled upon a diamond in the rough hidden away off the beaten path. They knew in their hearts that this spot would be the perfect place for both their family and their wine. Coeur de Terre Vineyard takes meticulous steps from start to finish to create an ethereal bottle of wine. This hands-on approach ensures the sustainability of the vines, but more importantly, the longevity of the earth where they’ve taken root.
21000 SW Eagle Pt Rd, McMinnville, OR 97128, Phone: 503-883-4111
For a Date:
6. Yamhill Valley Vineyards
Yamhill Valley Vineyards has been farming the treasured hills of the Coast Range Mountains of Oregon since their first bottle was corked in 1983. There famous Pinot Noir has received accolades from New York’s Burgundy Challenge and at tastings held across the nation. Yamhill Valley Vineyards is one of the oldest wineries in the region and continues to generate exceptional quality wines with the love and dedication only fine wine connoisseurs understand and appreciate. The spellbinding scenery of the vineyard’s sprawling estate is ideal for small weddings and special occasions or a wondrous place to reconnect with friends and family over a glass of wine.
16250 SW Oldsville Rd, McMinnville, OR 97128, Phone: 503-843-3100
7. Youngberg Hill
Youngberg Hill was established by a budding Iowa farm family raised with the belief that prosperity comes from hard work, integrity, and respect for the land. The Bailey Family built their hilltop oasis on 50-acres of lush green rolling landscape and with their combined knowledge of winemaking, hospitality, and marketing, they have created a polished gem that shines with pride. The luxurious Inn offers guests a choice of nine spacious suites decorated in rich wood accents, bold colorful linens, elegant baths, and breathtaking views of the coastal range valley. Youngberg Hill Winery and Inn has given the Bailey Family an enchanting place to welcome everyone home.
10660 SW Youngberg Hill Road, McMinnville, OR 97128, Phone: 503-389-8286
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
8. McMinnville City Park
McMinnville City Park is home to a sprawling playland for young children to climb and explore. This 10,000 square foot wooden construction features castle-like towers, slides, bridges, and a labyrinth of childhood imagination. City Park is also where visitors will find McMinnville’s Aquatic Center and public library. In the lower level of the park, guests can picnic and play alongside Cozine Creek or take a stroll on the paved paths and soft surface walkways. The park also features a statuesque fountain in memory of Geroge W. Soper, a beloved citizen whose sudden passing was mourned by all. McMinnville City Park gives visitors and the community a tranquil place to unwind and relish in the beauty of nature.
McMinnville, OR 97128, Phone: 503-434-7311
Where I Like to Eat in McMinnville, OR
- Recommended for Families: Community Plate – Homey, all-day breakfast and sandwiches made with local ingredients.
- For Wine & Small Plates: Thistle – Intimate farm-to-table restaurant with a creative seasonal menu.
- For Casual Dining: Serendipity Ice Cream – Old-fashioned soda fountain with sweet treats and sandwiches.
My favorite local events:
- For UFO Fans: UFO Festival (May) – Second only to Roswell, this quirky fest features parades, costumes, and extraterrestrial fun.
- For Foodies: McMinnville Wine & Food Classic (March) – Sip and savor Oregon’s best food and wine under one roof.
- For Families: Turkey Rama Festival (July) – Local tradition featuring food booths, live music, and a downtown street fair.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of McMinnville, Oregon:
- For Nature Lovers: Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge (30 min) – Birdwatching and easy trails in protected wetlands and grasslands.
- For Wine Enthusiasts: Dundee Hills (20–30 min) – Tour scenic vineyards and taste award-winning Willamette Valley wines.
- For Families: Champoeg State Heritage Area (30 min) – Picnic, walk riverfront trails, and learn early Oregon pioneer history.
- For Scenic Drives: Coastal Range Foothills (25–30 min) – Enjoy winding drives through forests, farmland, and vineyards.
- For Art & Shopping: Carlton (15–20 min) – Quaint wine village with galleries, tasting rooms, and artisan shops.
Plan Your Trip