30 Things to Do in Oregon
Oregon’s stunning diversity, from its rugged coastline and lush forests to high desert plains and volcanic peaks, offers endless adventure for every traveler. The state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, blending dramatic natural landscapes with quirky cities and charming towns, and exploring its scenic byways or state parks reveals many fantastic free things to do in Oregon. Prepare to discover dramatic waterfalls, sample world-class wines, and embrace the unique spirit of the Pacific Northwest.
This guide highlights 30 distinct experiences across the Beaver State, showcasing its incredible range of attractions. Whether you’re hiking through ancient forests, marveling at coastal rock formations, sipping pinot noir, or exploring vibrant urban centers, these suggestions will help you craft an unforgettable Oregon journey. Get ready to see what makes this state so captivating.
The Spectacular Oregon Coast
Cannon Beach & Haystack Rock: Walk along the iconic sandy shores of Cannon Beach and admire the massive Haystack Rock, a famous sea stack teeming with birdlife at low tide. Enjoy the charming village atmosphere and art galleries nearby for a classic Oregon coast day.
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor: Drive this breathtaking stretch of Highway 101 in Southern Oregon, stopping at viewpoints like Natural Bridges and Arch Rock. Numerous short trails lead to secluded beaches and dramatic coastal vistas.
Tillamook Creamery: Visit this famous cheese factory for self-guided tours, interactive exhibits, cheese samples, and delicious ice cream. It’s a fun and tasty stop for families offering a behind-the-scenes look at dairy production.
Astoria & Goonies Filming Locations: Explore Oregon’s oldest American settlement at the mouth of the Columbia River, known for its maritime history and as the setting for the movie The Goonies. Climb the Astoria Column for panoramic river and ocean views.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: Experience the massive sand dunes stretching along the coast near Florence, offering opportunities for dune buggy rides, sandboarding, or hiking. The vast expanse of shifting sands creates a unique coastal landscape.
Newport’s Historic Bayfront & Oregon Coast Aquarium: Wander the working waterfront in Newport, watching fishing boats and sea lions, then visit the renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium. Explore diverse marine habitats, including impressive shark exhibits and a giant Pacific octopus.
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area: Hike trails through coastal rainforest to stunning viewpoints overlooking the ocean, like the Cape Perpetua Overlook. Witness unique geological features like Thor’s Well and Spouting Horn at high tide for dramatic wave action.
Majestic Mountains & Waterfalls
Crater Lake National Park: Marvel at the intensely blue waters of Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the USA, formed within a collapsed volcano. Drive the scenic Rim Drive (summer/fall) and hike down the Cleetwood Cove Trail for boat tours on the lake.
Multnomah Falls & Historic Columbia River Highway: Visit Oregon’s tallest waterfall, the stunning Multnomah Falls, easily accessible from the Historic Columbia River Highway. Explore other nearby waterfalls like Latourell and Wahkeena Falls along this picturesque scenic drive.
Mount Hood & Timberline Lodge: Explore Oregon’s highest peak, offering year-round skiing at Timberline Lodge, hiking trails in summer, and stunning alpine scenery. Visit the historic Timberline Lodge, known for its architecture and role in the movie The Shining, for impressive mountain views.
Silver Falls State Park: Hike the “Trail of Ten Falls,” a beautiful loop trail that takes you behind several cascading waterfalls within a lush forest setting. It’s renowned as the crown jewel of the Oregon State Parks system.
Smith Rock State Park: Admire the dramatic volcanic rock formations popular with rock climbers in Central Oregon’s high desert canyon. Hike trails like Misery Ridge for spectacular views of the Crooked River and surrounding cliffs.
McKenzie River National Recreation Trail: Hike or bike alongside the incredibly clear, turquoise waters of the McKenzie River through old-growth forests. Highlights include the stunning Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool) and serene river scenery.
High Desert Wonders
Bend & the Ale Trail: Explore the vibrant city of Bend, a hub for outdoor recreation nestled in the high desert, known for its numerous craft breweries. Pick up an Ale Trail passport and sample local brews after a day outdoors.
Painted Hills (John Day Fossil Beds National Monument): Witness the stunning colors layered in the hills of this unit of the John Day Fossil Beds, showcasing millions of years of geological history. Visit in the late afternoon for the most vivid colors.
Alvord Desert: Experience the vast, flat expanse of this dry lake bed in southeastern Oregon, offering opportunities for driving, land sailing, or simply soaking in the remote, stark beauty (check conditions before driving on the playa).
Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Area: Drive the Steens Mountain Loop Road (summer/fall) for incredible panoramic views across the Alvord Desert and high-elevation scenery. This rugged area offers wild landscapes and hiking opportunities.
Portland & Urban Exploration
Powell’s City of Books: Get lost browsing the endless shelves of new and used books at this legendary independent bookstore covering an entire city block in Portland. It’s a book lover’s paradise you could explore for hours.
Portland Food Cart Pods: Sample diverse and delicious food from the numerous food cart pods scattered throughout Portland. It’s an affordable and tasty way to experience the city’s renowned culinary scene.
International Rose Test Garden: Wander through stunning gardens in Washington Park featuring thousands of rose bushes, especially beautiful during peak bloom (typically June). Enjoy lovely city views from this fragrant oasis.
Portland Japanese Garden: Find tranquility within this authentic Japanese garden, considered one of the best outside of Japan, located in Washington Park. Explore its various garden styles, teahouse, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Explore the Alberta Arts District: Stroll through this vibrant Northeast Portland neighborhood known for its colorful murals, independent boutiques, art galleries, and unique eateries. Visit during Last Thursday (monthly art walk, seasonally) for extra street festivities.
Willamette Valley Wine & Food
Willamette Valley Wine Tasting: Explore Oregon’s premier wine region, renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir. Visit numerous wineries offering tastings and vineyard tours throughout the scenic valley south of Portland for a delicious viticultural experience.
Hood River Fruit Loop: Drive this scenic loop through orchards and farms in the Hood River Valley, stopping at farm stands for fresh fruit, pies, jams, and wine or cider tastings. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Hood and Mount Adams.
Oregon Cheese Guild Trail: Follow a map to discover artisan cheesemakers across the state, sampling unique local cheeses directly from the source. It’s a tasty journey for cheese aficionados.
Unique Oregon Experiences
Oregon Shakespeare Festival (Ashland): Experience world-class theater performances, including Shakespearean plays and contemporary works, in the charming southern Oregon town of Ashland (typically Feb-Oct). It’s a major cultural destination.
Eugene Saturday Market: Browse crafts, food, and enjoy live music at the oldest continuously operating open-air craft market in the USA (Saturdays, April-Nov). It captures the creative spirit of Eugene.
Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve: Take a guided tour through marble caves deep within the Siskiyou Mountains. Explore unique formations and learn about cave geology in this subterranean wonder.
Terwilliger Hot Springs (Cougar Hot Springs): Soak in clothing-optional terraced hot spring pools nestled in the Willamette National Forest (requires fee and adherence to rules). It offers a natural, rustic soaking experience.
Wooden Shoe Tulip Fest (Seasonal): Wander through acres of colorful tulip fields during the annual festival near Woodburn each spring (typically March-May). Enjoy stunning floral displays, activities, and great photo opportunities.
