Oregon, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, offers an array of experiences for travelers. This itinerary is divided into eight sections, each focusing on different aspects that make Oregon a must-visit destination. Explore landmarks, indulge in local cuisine, enjoy entertainment, immerse yourself in culture, and much more.
Landmarks
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park, located in southern Oregon, is home to the deepest lake in the United States. Formed over 7,700 years ago in the caldera of a collapsed volcano, Crater Lake is known for its stunningly clear blue water. Visitors can take the 33-mile Rim Drive around the lake, offering numerous viewpoints and hiking trails. Don’t miss the boat tours to Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone within the lake.
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls, located in the Columbia River Gorge, is Oregon’s tallest waterfall, cascading 620 feet in two tiers. Accessible from Interstate 84, the falls are a popular stop for travelers exploring the gorge. A short hike leads to Benson Bridge, which spans the lower falls and provides a breathtaking view. For a more challenging hike, continue up to the top of the falls for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Hood
Mount Hood, the tallest peak in Oregon, is an iconic landmark and a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at one of the several resorts, including Timberline Lodge and Ski Area. In the summer, the mountain offers hiking, mountain biking, and climbing opportunities. The historic Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark, provides accommodations and dining with stunning views of the mountain.
Food and Cuisine
Voodoo Doughnut
Start your culinary adventure in Portland with a visit to Voodoo Doughnut, famous for its unique and quirky doughnut creations. Try the Bacon Maple Bar, a raised yeast doughnut topped with maple frosting and bacon strips, or the Voodoo Doll, a raspberry-filled doughnut with chocolate frosting. The eclectic decor and fun atmosphere make it a must-visit spot.
Tillamook Creamery
Head to the Tillamook Creamery on the Oregon Coast to experience some of the best dairy products in the state. Take a self-guided tour to learn about the cheese-making process, and sample a variety of cheeses, including the famous Tillamook Cheddar. The on-site restaurant offers delicious grilled cheese sandwiches, ice cream, and other dairy delights.
Pine State Biscuits
For a hearty breakfast or brunch, visit Pine State Biscuits in Portland. Known for their Southern-style biscuits, this popular eatery serves up delicious dishes like The Reggie, a biscuit sandwich with fried chicken, bacon, cheese, and gravy, or the Pine State Fried Club, with buttermilk fried chicken, pickles, and mustard on a biscuit. Pair your meal with a side of their famous hash browns or pimento cheese fries.
Pok Pok
Experience the flavors of Thailand at Pok Pok, a renowned restaurant in Portland. Founded by Chef Andy Ricker, Pok Pok offers authentic Thai street food, such as Ike’s Vietnamese Fish Sauce Wings, Chiang Mai Sausage, and Khao Soi, a Northern Thai curry noodle soup. The casual, laid-back atmosphere and unique flavors make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Entertainment
Portland’s Music Scene
Portland is known for its vibrant music scene, offering a diverse range of genres and venues. Catch a live show at iconic venues like the Crystal Ballroom, Doug Fir Lounge, or Mississippi Studios. Portland hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the Waterfront Blues Festival and the PDX Jazz Festival. Don’t miss the chance to experience the city’s thriving indie music scene.
Oregon Shakespeare Festival
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival, held annually in Ashland, is one of the most renowned regional theater festivals in the United States. The festival runs from February to October and features a wide range of productions, from classic Shakespearean plays to contemporary works. Performances are held in three theaters, including the outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre, providing a unique and immersive theater experience.
OMSI
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland is a premier destination for families and science enthusiasts. The museum features interactive exhibits on topics such as physics, chemistry, and technology, as well as a planetarium and an OMNIMAX theater. The museum also houses the USS Blueback, a retired submarine that visitors can tour to learn about life aboard a submarine.
Culture
Portland Art Museum
The Portland Art Museum, founded in 1892, is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest. The museum’s extensive collection includes American, Native American, European, and contemporary art. Highlights include works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Andy Warhol. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.
Pittock Mansion
Pittock Mansion, located in the West Hills of Portland, is a historic house museum offering a glimpse into Portland’s past. Built in 1914 for newspaper tycoon Henry Pittock, the mansion features stunning architecture, period furnishings, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the 23-room mansion and enjoy panoramic views of downtown Portland and Mount Hood from the grounds.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Lan Su Chinese Garden, located in Portland’s Old Town Chinatown, is a serene oasis inspired by the traditional gardens of Suzhou, China. The garden features winding pathways, bridges, and a variety of plants and flowers. The Teahouse within the garden offers traditional Chinese tea and snacks, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and reflection.
The High Desert Museum
Located near Bend, the High Desert Museum offers a fascinating look at the natural and cultural history of the High Desert region. The museum’s exhibits include Native American artifacts, pioneer history, and live animal presentations featuring local wildlife such as birds of prey and otters. The museum’s outdoor exhibits include a living history ranch and a replica of a Native American rock shelter.
Outdoor Activities
Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge, a designated National Scenic Area, offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Oregon. The gorge features dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests, providing numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Hike the popular Eagle Creek Trail to see waterfalls like Punchbowl Falls and Tunnel Falls, or take a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway to visit waterfalls like Multnomah Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park, located in Central Oregon, is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing. The park’s towering cliffs and spires attract climbers from around the world, offering routes for all skill levels. For those who prefer to stay on the ground, the park also offers miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, including the popular Misery Ridge Trail, which provides stunning views of the park and the surrounding landscape.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, located along the central coast, features some of the largest sand dunes in North America. The dunes provide a unique landscape for activities such as dune buggy riding, sandboarding, and hiking. Visitors can also explore the area by horseback or take a guided tour to learn about the unique flora and fauna that inhabit the dunes.
Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park, located in the Cascade Mountains, is known for its stunning waterfalls and lush forested landscapes. The park’s Trail of Ten Falls is a 7.2-mile loop trail that passes by ten beautiful waterfalls, including the 177-foot South Falls. The park also offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Shopping
Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s City of Books, located in downtown Portland, is the largest independent bookstore in the world. The store occupies an entire city block and features over a million new and used books across multiple floors. Visitors can easily spend hours browsing the extensive collection, which includes everything from bestsellers to rare and out-of-print books. The store also hosts author readings, book signings, and other literary events.
Saturday Market
Portland’s Saturday Market, held every weekend from March through December, is the largest continually operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the United States. Located in the Old Town/Chinatown district, the market features over 250 vendors selling handmade goods, including jewelry, clothing, artwork, and home decor. The market also offers a variety of food vendors and live entertainment, making it a vibrant and lively destination.
Bend’s Old Mill District
The Old Mill District in Bend is a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located along the Deschutes River. The district features a mix of national retailers and local boutiques, offering everything from outdoor gear to fashion and home goods. The area also boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and breweries, as well as a movie theater and an outdoor concert venue.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach, located on the northern Oregon coast, is known for its charming downtown area filled with art galleries, boutiques, and specialty shops. Visitors can browse unique stores offering handmade jewelry, pottery, and local artwork. The town is also home to several annual events, including the Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest and the Stormy Weather Arts Festival.
History
Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, located near Baker City, offers a fascinating look at the history of the Oregon Trail and the pioneers who traveled it. The center’s exhibits include life-sized dioramas, historical artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the story of the journey westward. Visitors can also explore the center’s outdoor trails, which offer views of the original wagon ruts and the surrounding landscape.
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, located in Vancouver, Washington, just across the Columbia River from Portland, preserves the site of a 19th-century fur trading post and military fort. The site includes a reconstructed fort, historic buildings, and a visitor center with exhibits on the history of the area. Visitors can take guided tours, participate in living history programs, and explore the beautiful grounds.
Pittock Mansion
Pittock Mansion, located in the West Hills of Portland, is a historic house museum offering a glimpse into Portland’s past. Built in 1914 for newspaper tycoon Henry Pittock, the mansion features stunning architecture, period furnishings, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the 23-room mansion and enjoy panoramic views of downtown Portland and Mount Hood from the grounds.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Yaquina Head Lighthouse, located on the central Oregon coast near Newport, is the tallest lighthouse in the state. The lighthouse was built in 1873 and is still in operation today. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history, as well as explore the surrounding Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, which offers tide pools, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Beaches
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach, located on the northern Oregon coast, is one of the most picturesque beaches in the state. The beach is known for its iconic Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack that is home to a variety of marine life. Visitors can explore the tide pools at the base of the rock, take a walk along the sandy shore, or enjoy the charming town of Cannon Beach, with its art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
Newport
Newport, located on the central Oregon coast, offers a variety of beach experiences, from the family-friendly Nye Beach to the rugged beauty of Yaquina Head. Nye Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, while Yaquina Head offers dramatic cliffs, tide pools, and the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Newport is also home to the Oregon Coast Aquarium and the Hatfield Marine Science Center, making it a great destination for families.
Bandon
Bandon, located on the southern Oregon coast, is known for its stunning rock formations, sandy beaches, and charming downtown area. The beach at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint offers breathtaking views of sea stacks and the iconic Face Rock. Visitors can explore the tide pools, take a walk along the beach, or visit the nearby Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, which offers world-class golfing with stunning ocean views.
Seaside
Seaside, located on the northern Oregon coast, is one of Oregon’s most popular beach destinations. The town’s wide, sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball, while the historic promenade offers a scenic walk along the shoreline. Seaside is also home to a variety of attractions, including the Seaside Aquarium, the Seaside Carousel Mall, and the annual Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament.
Festivals and Events
Oregon Brewers Festival
The Oregon Brewers Festival, held annually in Portland, is one of the largest craft beer festivals in the United States. The festival features over 80 breweries from around the country, offering a wide variety of beers to sample. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and educational seminars on brewing and beer tasting. The festival takes place at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, providing a beautiful setting along the Willamette River.
Oregon Country Fair
The Oregon Country Fair, held annually in Veneta, is a unique and vibrant event celebrating music, art, and community. The fair features live performances on multiple stages, including music, theater, and dance. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, enjoy delicious food, and participate in workshops and activities. The fair’s whimsical and creative atmosphere makes it a one-of-a-kind experience.
Portland Rose Festival
The Portland Rose Festival, held annually in May and June, is one of Portland’s oldest and most beloved traditions. The festival includes a variety of events, such as the Grand Floral Parade, the Starlight Parade, and the Dragon Boat Races. Visitors can also enjoy carnival rides, live entertainment, and the CityFair waterfront festival. The festival celebrates Portland’s heritage as the “City of Roses” and provides fun for the whole family.
BendFilm Festival
The BendFilm Festival, held annually in October, is a celebration of independent filmmaking. The festival showcases a diverse lineup of feature films, documentaries, and short films, with screenings held at various venues around Bend. The festival also includes panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and special events. The BendFilm Festival is a great opportunity to discover new talent and enjoy a wide range of films in a supportive and creative environment.
Oregon offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cities to its rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re exploring landmarks, indulging in delicious cuisine, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in local culture, this itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit to the Beaver State.