Oregon is a state of beautiful landscapes, a rich history, and a vibrant culture. From its rocky coastline to its lush forests, and bustling cities to its peaceful countryside, Oregon offers a variety of attractions that appeal to all types of travelers. 

Here you will find detailed information about the best places to visit in Oregon that will help you plan an unforgettable visit.

Why Oregon is a Must-Visit Destination?

Oregon's appeal lies in its variety of attractions that cater to different interests. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Oregon has something for everyone. The state's commitment to preserving its natural environment ensures that visitors can enjoy pristine landscapes and numerous recreational opportunities.

Best Places to Visit in Oregon

1. Crater Lake National Park:

Crater Lake National Park is undoubtedly one of Oregon's crown jewels. Formed over 7,700 years ago after the explosion of Mount Mazama, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the most pristine on Earth. The deep blue waters and stunning clarity of the lake make it a sight to behold.

Activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking, boat tours, and scenic drives. The Rim Drive offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding nature, with numerous pullouts for photography and picnicking. Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Must-See: Don't miss Wizard Island, a cinder cone island in the lake, and the Phantom Ship, a natural rock formation that looks like a ghost ship.

2. Columbia River Gorge:

The Columbia River Gorge is a canyon of the Columbia River that stretches over 80 miles along the Oregon-Washington border. This area is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls, lush greenery, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Activities: Hiking is extremely popular here, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. The most famous hike is the Multnomah Falls trail, leading to Oregon’s tallest waterfall. Other notable waterfalls include Latourell Falls, Wahkeena Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Must-See: The Historic Columbia River Highway offers some of the best scenic drives in the region, with numerous viewpoints and picnic spots.

3. Portland:

Portland, Oregon's largest city, is known for its quirky culture, craft beer scene, and vibrant arts community. The city's motto, "Keep Portland Weird," reflects its unique and inclusive spirit.

Activities: Explore the neighborhoods of Pearl District and Alberta Arts District for galleries, boutiques, and street art. Visit Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore, and the Portland Saturday Market for local crafts and food.

Must-See: The International Rose Test Garden, located in Washington Park, features over 10,000 rose bushes and offers stunning views of the city and Mount Hood. Additionally, don't miss the iconic White Stag Sign, a historic landmark that lights up the city's skyline.

Tip: For travelers and enthusiasts wanting to carry a piece of Oregon with them, Heart Sticker offers a range of Oregon-themed merchandise. Our collection includes the popular Trucker Hat with the Heart in Oregon design, Oregon state flag sticker, Winter Beanie Hat, Pacific Coastline sticker, Oregon Flag Buttons, and a Bigfoot sticker, among many others. 

These items are perfect for personalizing your belongings or as thoughtful gifts for friends and family, allowing you to share the beauty and spirit of Oregon wherever you go.

4. Cannon Beach:

Cannon Beach is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Oregon, known for its iconic Haystack Rock, which rises 235 feet from the edge of the shoreline. This area offers beautiful beaches, charming shops, and excellent dining.

Activities: Beachcombing, tide pooling, and bird watching are popular activities. The town also has a thriving arts scene with galleries and festivals.

Must-See: Ecola State Park, just north of Cannon Beach, offers dramatic coastal views, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

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• Oregon Country Fair—A 50 year tradition of Music, Arts, and Craft

5. Mount Hood:

Mount Hood is Oregon’s highest peak and a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into skiing, hiking, or simply enjoying scenic drives, Mount Hood has something to offer.

Activities: In winter, the mountain’s ski resorts, including Timberline Lodge and Mount Hood Meadows, are prime spots for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, the area offers hiking, mountain biking, and fishing.

Must-See: Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark, is not only a ski resort but also a piece of Oregon’s history and was famously used in the film "The Shining."

6. Bend and Central Oregon:

Bend is a hub for adventure seekers, located in the heart of Central Oregon. Known for its high desert climate and proximity to the Cascade Mountains, Bend offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Activities: Enjoy hiking, rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park, and water sports on the Deschutes River. Bend is also famous for its craft breweries and has been dubbed "Beer Town USA."

Must-See: The High Desert Museum provides fascinating exhibits on the region's natural and cultural history. Nearby, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument showcases lava flows, cinder cones, and volcanic landscapes.

7. Willamette Valley:

The Willamette Valley is Oregon’s leading wine region, known for its world-class Pinot Noir. The valley's rolling hills and fertile lands make it an idyllic destination for wine tasting and farm-to-table dining.

Activities: Wine tours and tastings at some of the over 500 wineries in the region. Cycling and scenic drives through the countryside are also popular.

Must-See: The towns of McMinnville and Dundee offer charming downtowns with excellent dining and boutique shopping.

8. Ashland:

Ashland, located in Southern Oregon, is best known for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which attracts theater lovers from around the world. The town itself is quaint, with beautiful parks and historic architecture.

Activities: Besides enjoying the festival, visitors can explore Lithia Park, a 93-acre park with gardens, duck ponds, and trails. The Ashland Art Center and local galleries showcase regional art.

Must-See: The Oregon Cabaret Theatre offers musicals and comedies in a historic venue, providing a different theatrical experience than the Shakespeare Festival.

9. Oregon Coast Aquarium:

Located in Newport, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is one of the top aquariums in the United States. It offers an in-depth look at the diverse marine life of the Pacific Northwest.

Activities: The aquarium features interactive exhibits, touch pools, and a walk-through tunnel that gives visitors an up-close view of sharks and other sea creatures.

Must-See: The Sea Otter exhibit and the Passages of the Deep tunnel, where you can walk beneath the water and see sharks swimming overhead.

Oregon is a state of incredible beauty and diversity, offering a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler. From the vibrant city life of Portland to the beautiful surroundings of Crater Lake and the majestic peaks of Mount Hood, there's no shortage of places to explore and enjoy. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the best places in Oregon!