Craving scenic vineyards, small-town vibes, and outdoor adventure? Head to Gaston! Tucked into Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley wine country, Gaston is a peaceful village surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and farmland. Whether you’re wine tasting, hiking, or simply soaking in the countryside, Gaston is an ideal rural getaway.
🌤 When I like to visit
The best time to visit Gaston is from May through October. Late spring and summer bring ideal weather for wine tasting, hiking, and festivals. Fall is harvest season in wine country and offers colorful foliage and cooler temperatures.
🗺 My tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Gaston is located along OR-47, about 45 minutes southwest of Portland and 20 minutes south of Forest Grove.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), about 1 hour away by car.
- By Train/Bus: Public transit is limited; driving is the best way to reach and explore Gaston.
🏬 Where I like to stay
- The Allison Inn & Spa (Newberg) – Upscale wine country resort with spa, fine dining, and vineyard views (30 min from Gaston).
- McMenamins Grand Lodge (Forest Grove) – Eclectic historic hotel with soaking pool, restaurant, and local flair.
- Airbnbs & Vineyard Stays – Gaston and surrounding areas offer charming guesthouses and cabins on farms and wineries.
Top Attractions
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Henry Hagg Lake & Scoggins Valley Park – Popular spot for fishing, kayaking, boating, and hiking around a scenic reservoir.
- Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge – Birdwatching and nature photography in a restored wetland habitat.
- Downtown Gaston – Tiny but charming, with a few local eateries and vintage Americana vibes.
🥗 Where to Eat
- Jem 100 Ice Cream & Burgers – Classic 1950s-style diner with hearty burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
- OutAZABlue – Nearby in Yamhill, this unexpected gourmet destination offers seasonal, locally-sourced fine dining (check for reservations).
- Wine Country Food Trucks – Many area vineyards host rotating food trucks on weekends with local fare and picnic spots.
🎟 If you are interested in local events:
- Willamette Valley Wine Tastings (Spring–Fall) – Most local vineyards host tastings, wine club parties, and live music.
- Forest Grove Uncorked (August) – Food, wine, and beer festival just a short drive from Gaston.
- Fall Harvest Celebrations (September–October) – Grape stomps, pumpkin patches, and wine-pairing dinners at local farms and wineries.
🚙 If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Gaston, Oregon:
- McMinnville (30–40 min) – Explore the historic downtown, dine at top restaurants, or visit the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum.
- Forest Grove (20 min) – Visit Pacific University’s campus, taste at nearby wineries, or relax at a McMenamins property.
- Yamhill-Carlton AVA (30 min) – Tour one of Oregon’s top wine regions with dozens of boutique vineyards.
- Tillamook State Forest (45 min) – Enjoy hiking trails, scenic drives, and nature walks in lush forest landscapes.
- Portland (1 hour) – Spend the day exploring breweries, museums, gardens, and city life before returning to the peace of the countryside.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Where is Gaston located?
- The city of Gaston may be the smallest city within Washington County, Oregon, but it is bursting with natural outdoor beauty.
- Why is Gaston a great destination for wine lovers?
- Since agriculture reigns in this area of the state, Gaston is a great destination for anyone who loves wine, as there are numerous vineyards and wineries, several of which are family-owned and operated and boast award-winning wines.
- What outdoor recreational activities are available in Gaston?
- The Tillamook State Forest offers a naturally gorgeous area for scenic driving, fishing, kayaking, or even just having a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
---|---|---|
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather, blooming vineyards, and scenic beauty. | The Allison Inn & Spa (nearby Newberg) – Luxurious accommodations in Oregon wine country. | Visit Elk Cove Vineyards – Enjoy wine tastings and picturesque vineyard views. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather perfect for winery tours and outdoor recreation. | McMenamins Grand Lodge (Forest Grove) – Unique lodging experience close to local attractions. | Explore Henry Hagg Lake – Ideal for swimming, kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. |
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather, harvest festivities, and vibrant foliage. | The Vintages Trailer Resort (nearby Dayton) – Stylish vintage trailer accommodations amidst vineyards. | Attend vineyard harvest events – Experience grape harvesting and wine tastings. |
Winter (December-February) – Cool, rainy weather perfect for cozy indoor experiences. | Best Western University Inn & Suites (Forest Grove) – Comfortable accommodations close to wineries. | Enjoy wine tasting rooms and local restaurants – Relax indoors with great food and local wines. |
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