Oregon is a great place to explore, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
The state is home to lush forests, beautiful landscapes, and avant-garde culture, making it ideal for all kinds of travelers.
This western US state reflects the true blend of urban charms and natural beauty. Looking forward to visiting Oregon? Scroll the guide and find some unique things to do in Oregon and prepare your itinerary accordingly.
Is there anything to do in Oregon?
Yes, definitely. There are various things to enjoy in Oregon, such as travelers can take a hiking or biking trail in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area near Portland or can drive down the scenic Oregon Coast Highway for views of miles of ocean and sandy beaches.
Tourists can also attend one of the many world-famous jazz festivals when visiting this western US state.
What is the coolest thing in Oregon?
While the US state of Oregon is packed with a myriad of coolest things, some options you cannot afford to miss include Crater Lake National Park, Deschutes National Forest,
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Washington Park, Hood River, and Cannon Beach.
10 Fun Things To Do & Best Places To Visit In Oregon
Oregon is a beautiful place with an abundant natural resource base and a long history of agricultural production.
This beautiful state is filled with beaches, lakes, resorts, and several unique attractions. Here, we have outlined some best things to do in Oregon that will surely please visitors of all ages.
1. Crater Lake National Park
The fifth-oldest national park in the United States, Crater Lake National Park is one of the must-visit places in Oregon.
It is widely famous for Crater Lake, formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama volcano. The lake is known to be one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world.
The nearby restaurants where you can enjoy food are Crater lake Lodge Dining Room, Annie Creek Restaurant, Steamboat Inn, The Smash Box, etc.
The exact location of the park is Klamath County, Oregon, and you can connect with the staff members at +1 541-594-3000.
Is Crater Lake Oregon worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely. The park is home to a beautiful lake and features some of the most fantastic scenery in the United States.
Can you swim in Crater Lake?
Yes, you can swim at designated areas, such as Cleetwood Cove Trail. This trail is the only place where it is safe and legal to get down to the lake shores.
What is the best time of year to visit Crater Lake?
The best time to visit Crater Lake is July, August, and September when the park’s roads and trails are fully open.
2. Cannon Beach
Looking for the best things to do in Oregon for couples? Pay a visit to Cannon Beach and savor the breathtaking views of the ocean and sunset.
It is a small coastal city in northwest Oregon, famous for its long, sandy shore. The city also boasts Haystack Rock, a seasonal haven for tufted puffins.
The best restaurants near Cannon Beach are Cannon Beach Smokehouse, Ecola Seafood Restaurant & Market,
The Wayfarer Restaurant and Lounge, and more. It is just 90 minutes from Portland.
What is the best time of year to go to Cannon Beach Oregon?
The best time to go to Cannon Beach is between October and May when the pace of the coast changes dramatically.
Is Cannon Beach Oregon worth visiting?
Yes, definitely. The coastal city is packed with gorgeous beaches and stunning scenery, making it ideal for those who want to explore ocean views.
Can you swim at Cannon Beach, Oregon?
No. Travelers shouldn’t expect to jump in the waters without a surfboard, and wet suit.
3. Washington Park, Portland
Visiting WashingtonPark is one of the best things to do in Oregon this weekend.
It is a public urban state park in Portland, famous for its zoo, forestry, museum, arboretum, rose garden, tennis courts, and acres of wild forest with miles of hiking trails.
The best restaurants close to Washington Park include Umami Cafe, Vista Spring Cafe, Salt & Straw, etc.
The precise address of the park is 4033 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR. For any queries, you can connect with their staff members at +1 503-319-0999.
Is Washington Park free?
Yes, Washington Park in Portland is free to enter; however, tourists have to pay an admission fee to enter other attractions included in the Park, such as the Japanese garden, forestry center discovery museum, etc.
Visitors should also check the best time to visit Portland Oregon Waterfalls and add these attractions to your itinerary.
What are three tourist sites in Washington Park?
The three major tourist sites in Washington Park are Oregon Zoo, World Forestry Center Discovery Museum, and Portland International Rose Test Garden.
What does Washington Park have?
Washington Park includes a wide array of attractions, such as a zoo, forestry museum, rose garden, Japanese garden, picnic areas, public art, playgrounds, soccer field, arboretum, amphitheater, and wild forest with hiking trails.
4. Mount Hood National Forest
Located in northern Oregon, Mount Hood National Forest is best known for its scenic charms, hot springs, glaciers, waterfalls, alpine wildflowers, and varied wildlife.
The evergreen landscape of Mount Hood National Forest draws crowds from far and wide.
This place also offers various activities to keep the travelers occupied, such as hiking trails, climbing opportunities, and numerous campgrounds.
Cascade Dining Room, Alpenstube, Sahale Grill, etc., are some of the famous restaurants located close to the park.
The park is located in Sandy, OR, and you can connect with them at +1 503-668-1700.
Is Mount Hood worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Visiting Mount Hood is one of the best things to do in Oregon. It offers picturesque recreation, ranging from camping and hiking to fishing and skiing.
Is Mt. Hood open to the public?
No. Mt Hood is closed for the 2022 season. However, some regions of this national park open occasionally, and travelers should connect with their staff members to know the exact timeline.
Why are there no trees on Mt. Hood?
Since Mt Hood is a stratovolcano in northwest Oregon, it features fewer or no trees, owing to the inhospitable environment.
5. Astoria, Oregon
A famous and beautiful Port City, Astoria is referred to as the best place to live in Oregon for weather. It was founded in 1811, which makes Astoria the oldest city in the state of Oregon.
This iconic coastal town is famous for being the site of the classic 1985 film ‘The Goonies”. It is rich in natural beauty and features a myriad of tourist attractions.
The famous restaurants where you can dine-in in Astoria are Bowpicker Fish and Chips, Mo’s Restaurant, Silver Salmon Grille, etc.
It is located on the shores of the Columbia River and is the seat of Clatsop County.
Is it worth visiting Astoria, Oregon?
Yes, definitely. Astoria is a lovely destination for road trippers, honeymooners, and backpackers.
Is Astoria, Oregon, a nice place to live?
Absolutely yes. Astoria offers a suburban feel to the residents and features lots of bars, restaurants, schools, and tourist attractions.
Which is better, Seaside or Astoria?
Astoria is much better than Seaside since it offers various tourist attractions, such as The Astor Tower, the old downtown, and sunny shores.
6. Hood River
Located at the panoramic crossroads of the Cascade Range and Columbia River Gorge, Hood River is widely acclaimed as the Windsurfing Capital of the world.
It is famous for offering clock-full hiking, craft breweries, mountain biking trails, and farm-to-table bounty.
Some of the popular restaurants in this port city are Romulus, Mesquitery Restaurant & Bar, The Sixth Street Bistro & Pub, etc.
The city is the seat of Hood River County and is located at the confluence of the Hood River and the Columbia River.
How do you spend a day in Hood River?
You can spend a beautiful day in Hood River by visiting the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, Mirror Lake Trail, and Marchesi Vineyards.
Is Hood River a good place to live?
Yes. Living in Hood River offers a suburban feel to the residents. This city tends to be one of the best places to retire in Oregon.
Where does the Hood River begin and end?
Hood River descends from the wilderness areas in the Cascade Range in Mount Hood and flows through the Hood River Valley.
7. Newport, Oregon
Incorporated in 1882, Newport is a beautiful city in Lincoln County, Oregon. It is popular for featuring local marine life, arched Yaquina Bay State park, a basalt rock beach, and Yaquina Bay.
The city is located on Oregon’s central coast and boasts some famous restaurants, including Clearwater Restaurant, Mo’s Seafood & Chowder, Nana’s Irish Pub, etc.
Is Newport, Oregon, worth visiting?
Yes. Newport is an ideal destination to explore, especially if you wish to enjoy some time at the beach and participate in family-friendly activities.
Is Newport, Oregon, a good place to live?
Yes, of course. This beautiful town is one the most affordable cities in Oregon and is home to several attractions like Oregon Coast Aquarium, lighthouses, state parks, and more.
How hot does it get in Newport, Oregon?
The average high temperature in Newport, Oregon, is over 62F, and the warm season lasts from June to October, with August being the hottest month.
8. Klamath Falls
Founded in 1867, Klamath Falls is the county seat of Klamath County, Oregon. It was originally called Linkville and was named after the Link River, on whose falls the city is located.
Klamath Falls is famous for offering a variety of recreational activities, such as cross-country skiing, fishing, hunting, and golfing.
The famous restaurants in Klamath Falls where you can savor delicious food are Girasol Family Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, Starv’n Marv’n Family Restaurant, Waffle Hut & Eatery, etc.
It is tucked into the Klamath Basin at the southern tip of Upper Klamath Lake.
Is Klamath Falls a nice place to live?
Yes, Klamath Falls is one of the safest cities with a low crime rate, making it one of the best places in Oregon to live.
Is Klamath Falls worth visiting?
Yes, Klamath Falls is worth visiting, especially for those who love enjoying outdoor activities. It is home to several waterfalls and other scenic tourist attractions.
Does Klamath Falls have a waterfall?
Yes. Klamath Falls is packed with various beautiful waterfalls, such as Clearwater Falls, Watson Falls, Toketee Falls, and Duwee Falls.
9. Oregon Coast Trail
Also known as OCT, Oregon Coast Trail is a beautiful, long-distance hiking route along the Pacific coast of Oregon.
This 362-mile coastline is famous for offering the majestic landscape and gives hikers the opportunity to cross sandy beaches, forest-shaded corridors, and beautiful headlands.
Some of the popular restaurants that you must not miss when visiting the Oregon Coast Trail are Beach Street Kitchen,
Camp 18 Restaurant, Osprey Cafe, etc. It is located on the Pacific Ocean Coast of Oregon.
How long does it take to hike Oregon Coast Trail?
It almost takes around four weeks to hike Oregon Coast Trail.
What is the best section of the Oregon Coast Trail?
The northern section is coined as the best part of the OCT, offering scenic and stunning views of the trail.
Do you need a permit for the Oregon Coast Trail?
No. No permit is required for hikers; however, you need to make prior reservations to get a permit if you park a car at Oregon State Park.
Where does the Oregon Coast Trail start and end?
It begins at the Columbia River South Jetty in Fort Stevens State Park, the northernmost tip of Oregon and ends at the California Border, located in Crissey Field State Recreation Site.
10. Willamette National Forest
Home to eight wilderness areas, visiting Willamette National Forest is one of the best things to do in Oregon this weekend.
This national forest is famous for featuring Three Sisters Wilderness and Mt. Jefferness Wilderness. Moreover, it is home to various backpacking and day hiking trails.
The must-visit restaurants near Willamette National Forest Marche, Ninkasi’s Better Living Room, Mazzi’s Italian Food Restaurant, etc.
It is located in the central part of the Cascade Range of the US state of Oregon.
Are you planning to pay a visit? Dial +1 541-225-6300 to check the camp availability and hiking details and then make your trip accordingly.
What city is Willamette National Forest in?
The nearest city to Willamette National Forest is Eugene, Oregon Salem, Oregon Oakridge, Oregon.
Can you camp anywhere in Willamette National Forest?
Yes, you can camp anywhere in Willamette National Forest except within 100 feet of a lake, trail, or stream.
Are there bears in Willamette National Forest?
Yes, you can see bears in Willamette National Forest, but be aware of the safety recommendations to avoid any trouble.
Things to do in Oregon FAQs
What is the number 1 attraction in Oregon?
Crater Lake National Park is the best and must-visit attraction in the US state of Oregon.
It lies in the Cascade Mountains of southwestern Oregon and is famous for offering scenic landscapes and beautiful Crater Lake, whose water comes from snow or rain.
What part of Oregon should I visit?
While the entire US State of Oregon is beautiful and worth visiting, you should not miss the Central part of the state to explore small-town charm, great outdoor activities, and world-famous cuisines.
Find the best restaurants in Bend and savor mouthwatering and signature Oregon dishes.
What are three things Oregon is famous for?
The three things Oregon is famous for are Crater Lake, Mount Hood, and Cannon Beach.
In addition, this US State is famous for its beautiful forests, unique wildlife, and easygoing culture. Tourists can visit the state to explore hiking trails and natural landmarks.
Conclusion
The guide to the best things to do in Oregon concludes here. This western US state is home to many attractions that are sure to appeal to travellers of all tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet relaxing stroll through nature or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, there is something for everyone in Oregon.
We hope our research will narrow your choices and help you make a perfect itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Make moving to Oregon Checklist now, pack your bags, and get ready to enjoy the memorable trip.