Top 10 Things to Do in Oregon
By Emily Johnson
Introduction
As someone who has lived in Oregon for most of my life, I can say with confidence that this state has a lot to offer. From the rugged coastline to the stunning mountains, there are endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 10 favorite things to do in Oregon.
Top 10 Things to Do in Oregon
Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick look at the top attractions in Oregon:
- Visit Crater Lake National Park
- Explore the Columbia River Gorge
- Take a hike in the Cascade Mountains
- Visit Portland’s food and beer scene
- Relax on the Oregon Coast
- Go wine tasting in the Willamette Valley
- Visit the Painted Hills
- Go rafting on the Rogue River
- Explore the Oregon Dunes
- Visit the Oregon Shakespeare Festival
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these activities and what makes them so special.
1. Visit Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. This stunning lake was formed over 7,700 years ago when Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed. Today, it is the deepest lake in the country and is known for its crystal-clear blue water.
I visited Crater Lake for the first time when I was in high school, and it was an experience I’ll never forget. I hiked down to the edge of the lake and was mesmerized by the clarity of the water. I even took a dip (it was freezing!) and felt like I was swimming in a giant sapphire.
If you’re planning a trip to Oregon, Crater Lake is a must-see. Whether you want to hike, swim, or just take in the stunning views, this national park has something for everyone.
2. Explore the Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a stunning canyon that stretches for over 80 miles along the Columbia River. This area is known for its incredible hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
One of my favorite hikes in the Gorge is to the top of Multnomah Falls. The hike is challenging but the views from the top are absolutely worth it. Another must-see spot in the Gorge is the Oneonta Gorge, which is a narrow slot canyon with a beautiful waterfall at the end.
The Columbia River Gorge is a great day trip from Portland, but you could easily spend a week exploring all the different trails and viewpoints.
3. Take a Hike in the Cascade Mountains
The Cascade Mountains are a stunning range that runs through Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. There are countless hiking trails in the Cascades, ranging from easy strolls to challenging overnight backpacking trips.
One of my favorite hikes in the Cascades is to the summit of South Sister. This is a challenging hike that takes you to the third-highest peak in Oregon. The views from the top are incredible, and you can even see all the way to Crater Lake on a clear day.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, the Cascade Mountains offer endless opportunities for adventure.
4. Visit Portland’s Food and Beer Scene
Portland is known for its incredible food and beer scene. There are hundreds of restaurants, food carts, and breweries to choose from, making it a foodie’s paradise.
One of my favorite spots in Portland is the Pine Street Market, which is a food hall with a variety of different vendors. Some of my favorite vendors include Marukin Ramen, Trifecta Annex, and Wiz Bang Bar (for ice cream).
Of course, no visit to Portland would be complete without sampling some of the local beer. Some of my favorite breweries in the city include Deschutes, Breakside, and Ecliptic.
5. Relax on the Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world. There are countless beaches and small towns to explore, each with its own unique charm.
One of my favorite towns on the coast is Cannon Beach, which is known for its iconic Haystack Rock. This massive rock formation juts out of the ocean and is a popular spot for photos.
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach, I recommend checking out Oswald West State Park. This park has a beautiful beach with towering cliffs and is a great spot for surfing.
6. Go Wine Tasting in the Willamette Valley
The Willamette Valley is Oregon’s premier wine region, known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. There are over 500 wineries in the valley, making it a wine lover’s dream.
One of my favorite wineries in the Willamette Valley is Domaine Drouhin, which has a beautiful tasting room with stunning views of the valley. Other great wineries to check out include Ponzi Vineyards and Adelsheim Vineyard.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a good glass of vino, the Willamette Valley is a must-visit destination in Oregon.
7. Visit the Painted Hills
The Painted Hills are a unique geological wonder located in central Oregon. These hills are made up of layers of brightly colored sediment, giving them a rainbow-like appearance.
I visited the Painted Hills for the first time last year and was blown away by their beauty. The colors are even more vibrant in person than they are in photos.
If you’re interested in geology or just love stunning natural landscapes, the Painted Hills are a must-see.
8. Go Rafting on the Rogue River
The Rogue River is a beautiful river that runs through southwestern Oregon. This river is known for its exciting rapids and stunning scenery, making it a popular spot for rafting.
I went on a rafting trip on the Rogue River a few years ago and had an absolute blast. The rapids were exhilarating and the scenery was breathtaking.
Whether you’re an experienced rafter or just looking for a fun adventure, the Rogue River is a great spot to check out.
9. Explore the Oregon Dunes
The Oregon Dunes are a unique natural wonder located on the coast. These massive sand dunes stretch for over 40 miles and are a popular spot for hiking, camping, and ATV riding.
I visited the Oregon Dunes a few years ago and was amazed by their size. It’s hard to comprehend just how massive these dunes are until you’re standing at the base of one.
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, the Oregon Dunes are definitely worth checking out.
10. Visit the Oregon Shakespeare Festival
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a renowned theater festival that takes place in Ashland every summer. This festival features a variety of Shakespearean plays as well as other classic and contemporary works.
I’ve been to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival a few times and have always been blown away by the performances. The actors are incredibly talented and the productions are always top-notch.
If you’re a fan of theater or just looking for a unique cultural experience, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a must-see.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Oregon?
The best time to visit Oregon depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in hiking and outdoor activities, the summer months (June-August) are the best time to visit. If you’re interested in wine tasting or visiting the coast, the fall months (September-November) are a great time to visit.
What are some other popular destinations in Oregon?
Some other popular destinations in Oregon include Bend (a mountain town known for its outdoor activities), Eugene (home to the University of Oregon), and the Oregon Vortex (a mysterious spot where gravity seems to work differently).
What is the weather like in Oregon?
The weather in Oregon varies depending on where you are in the state. The western part of the state (including Portland and the coast) is known for its rainy winters and mild summers. The eastern part of the state (including Bend and the Painted Hills) has a more arid climate with hot summers and cold winters.
What is Oregon known for?
Oregon is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and food and beer scene. The state is also home to Nike, Intel, and other major companies.