Top 11 Best Things to Do in Oregon
Oregon is a beautiful state that borders the North Pacific Ocean. If you're seeking for a rejuvenating holiday in the great outdoors, this wonderful state is ... read more...home to many natural beauties, including picturesque parks, immaculate beaches, massive mountains, and stunning lakes. Oregon offers the ideal escape from your everyday routine, whether you live nearby or far away. In addition to spending time in nature, there are a ton of other enjoyable things you can do, like visiting a museum, going wine tasting, unwinding at a hot spring, and much more. Start your fun-filled and memorable vacation off right by looking over this list of the best things to do in Oregon that Toplist hand-picked for you!
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Southwest Oregon in the United States is home to the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a linear state park. It is 12 miles (19 km) long, heavily forested, and has a few small sandy beaches along its rocky, treacherous shoreline. It bears the name Samuel H. Boardman in honor of the founder of the Oregon Parks Department. It is situated between US Route 101 and the Pacific Ocean, 3 to 15 miles (5 to 24 km) north of Brookings. The Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint is adjacent to the northern end. Over 14 named creeks pass through the region.
Visitors can expect craggy bluffs, quiet beaches, and offshore rock formations along the twelve miles of the Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor that follow the coastline. Highway 101 gives turnouts to ocean vista overlooks and access to miles of hiking trails along the coast between Brookings and Gold Beach. The Natural Bridge viewpoint must be located where you can see the seven recognizable arch rocks.Google Rating: 4.8/5.0
Address: U.S. 101, Brookings, OR 97415, United States
Contact: +1 800-551-6949
Website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=56 -
One of the largest sea grottos in the world and the only known mainland rookery for the Stellar Sea Lion are The Sea Lion Caves. The caves, which are located 11 miles north of Florence on Highway 101, are a networked system of several caves and tunnels that are open to the Pacific Ocean. One of the greatest sea caves in the world, Sea Lion Caves is currently the tenth-longest sea cave in the world. It is the longest in the country, measuring 1315 feet in length. The 1227-foot-long, undeveloped Painted Cave on Santa Cruz Island in California is a comparable cavern.
Over the years, the Steller's sea lion and, to a lesser extent, the California sea lion, have made this cave's sea level region and the sea cliff rocks outside of it their sole known mainland rookery and hauling place (winter residence). Sea birds have a natural resting place in the high vault. The pigeon guillemot, Brandt's cormorant, western, herring, California gulls, tufted puffins, and the rare hawk or bald eagle are just a few of the birds that call the Sea Lion Caves home. You must take the elevator down to the caves, which are located within the Sea Lion Caves Gift Shop, to see the California Seals and Sea Lions.
Google Rating: 4.3/5.0
Address: 91560 US-101, Florence, OR 97439, United States
Contact: +1 541-547-3111
Website: https://www.sealioncaves.com/sea-lions.php -
For many photographers, wildlife lovers, and drivers passing through Oregon, Thor's Well is a must-see location. A gaping sinkhole that sits on the edge of the Oregon coast close to Cape Perpetua swallows the continuous flow of the surrounding ocean. The famous natural wonder known as Thor's Well is not literally bottomless, although it is extremely hazardous.
High tide and storms when water violently pours over the rocks and funnels into the hole make the location particularly stunning. Unwary site visitors face the risk of getting carried right into the vortex during these abrupt torrents. Despite the dangers, photographers and nature enthusiasts continue to throng the magnificent fountain to see the hostile waters that faithfully reflect the stormy character of their holy namesake. The hour before the high tide is the perfect time to visit Thor's Well to view it dry and then watch as the formation fills with water.
Google Rating: 4.8/5.0
Address: Yachats, OR 97498, United States
Contact: N/A
Website: https://www.yachatsoregon.org/295/Thors-Well -
Bandon, which is on the Southern Oregon Coast and moves at a somewhat slower pace than its coastal siblings found further north, is the ideal destination for a tranquil getaway. All ages and abilities are welcomed, and the staff at this small, family-run business make an effort to make accommodations for everyone, including riders with disabilities. The staff's guides take the time to match each rider with the right horse based on their age and level of experience, and they painstakingly train them in the fundamentals of riding to make everyone feel comfortable. The horses are also familiar with this industry. They stay on the path because they are accustomed to the beach and carrying many riders.
Your helpful advisors will offer assistance as needed throughout the voyage. In addition to providing information about what you see on the beach and local mythology that explains the origin of some of the rocks, they will amuse you while you ride. They also know when to let the surroundings speak for themselves, allowing everyone to take in the peace.
Google Rating: 4.9/5.0
Address: 54629 Beach Loop Rd, Bandon, OR 97411, United States
Contact: +1 541-347-3423
Website: https://www.bandonstables.com/ -
To find fantastic wine, you do not need to travel to Napa Valley. Even though Oregon's vineyards may not be as well-known as those in California, they are nonetheless lush and lovely and can provide a pleasant afternoon with good company and a decent drink in a picturesque environment. The best illustration of a wine region in Oregon is the Willamette Valley. Every which way you look, there are vast vineyards, and it is sprinkled with adorable little stores and cottages to complete the picture-perfect appearance. This is one of the best things to do in Oregon.
Wine tastings and field rides on horses are just a couple of the local pursuits. Consider visiting the Willamette Valley if you are looking for the best things to do in Oregon. You will understand that traveling there was the perfect choice once you step into the lush, verdant grass of the countryside and take a deep breath of the grape-scented air.
Google Rating: 4.6/5.0
Address: Vineyards 8800 Enchanted Way SE Turner, OR 97392, United States
Contact: N/A
Website: https://willamettevalley.org/ -
Visiting Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach is a must-do on any trip to the Oregon coast. Cannon Beach is a well-liked vacation spot for residents of Oregon and visitors from other states because of its distinctive 235-foot sea stack that protrudes into the Pacific Ocean. The quaint hamlet, with its lovely coastal homes, was included in National Geographic's 2013 list of the top 100 most beautiful places on earth. The Goonies, Twilight, and Point Break, among other movies, all include Cannon Beach and the nearby Ecola State Park.
The site is also a haven for animals and the preservation of nature, in addition to its old-world charm and aesthetic appeal that draw in tourists of all ages. The Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge includes The Haystack Rock, where several animal species congregate in search of a safe and secure environment. One other Oregon destination that should be on your travel itinerary is Haystack Rock, which is also one of the top beaches in the world.
Google Rating: 4.8/5.0
Address: US-101, Cannon Beach, OR 97110, United States
Contact: +1 503-436-2623
Website: https://www.cannonbeach.org/things-to-do/beaches-and-parks/haystack-rock/ -
Astoria Bridge, also known as the Astoria-Megler Bridge or Columbia River (Astoria) Bridge, is a truss bridge in the western United States that connects the states of Oregon and Washington at the mouth of the Columbia River. It was created by William A. Bungee, and when it was finished in 1966, it was the longest continuous-truss bridge in the world. When it first opened to traffic, the bridge, which connected Astoria, Oregon, and Point Ellice (near Megler), Washington, served as the last piece of the U.S. highway system connecting Mexico and Canada.
Numerous tourists from all over the world come to Astoria solely to cross the Astoria-Megler Bridge by car. Although it is illegal for pedestrians to cross the 4.1-mile-long bridge, you can drive over it to enjoy some amazing river vistas. The Astoria Riverfront Walk offers some great views of the surrounding area, but the rooms of the River Walk Inn are the ideal site to see the bridge.
Google Rating: 4.8/5.0
Address: US-101, Astoria, OR 97103, United States
Contact: N/A
Website: N/A -
Along with Sheep Rock and Clarno, The Painted Hills is a geological site in Wheeler County, Oregon, and it is one of the three sections that make up the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. It is situated 9 miles (14 km) to the northwest of Mitchell, Oregon, and covers an area of 3,132 acres (12.67 km2). One of Oregon's Seven Wonders is the Painted Hills, according to the list. The site's distinctive color layers can be linked to cycles of wet and dry weather conditions that occurred when the Eocene epoch gave way to the colder, more temperate Oligocene epoch. The soil's mixture of mudstone, siltstone, shale, and lignite is what causes the various color layers.
The vividly colorful stratification in the soil that can be seen splashed across the hillsides here gives the area its moniker, The Painted Hills. The scenery in this bizarre Central Oregon location is covered in vivid greens, fiery reds, burned orange and shimmering pink and gold hues. It is simple to understand why the Painted Hills is considered one of Oregon's "7 Wonders."
Google Rating: 4.7/5.0
Address: Mitchell, Oregon, United States
Contact: (541) 462-3921
Website: https://paintedhillsvacation.com/ -
Along the Oregon Coast in Lincoln County, Oregon, in the United States, is a small lake called Devils Lake. It divides the Central Oregon Coast Range from Lincoln City's northern region. It is three miles (4.8 km) long, a third of a mile wide, and as much as 21 feet (6.4 m) deep. From the lake, the D River flows westward until it reaches the Pacific Ocean. The Devils Lake Water Improvement District oversees the management of the lake. 1982 saw the founding of the Preservation Association of Devils Lake (PADL).
The name, according to Oregon Geographic Names, is based on a Native American myth. According to the narrative, every now and then a big fish, octopus, or other large marine creature would surface, much to the surprise of any nearby fishermen. The water in Devils Lake has got to be the most vivid turquoise color you've ever seen. It is without a doubt Oregon's most gorgeous lake, and it's the ideal spot to spend a summer day.
Google Rating: 4.7/5.0
Address: Lincoln County, Oregon, United States
Contact: +1 800-551-6949
Website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=155
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State park Smith Rock State Park is situated close to the towns of Redmond and Terrebonne in the High Desert of central Oregon. The park's day-use portion is accessible every day from sunrise until nightfall. Additionally, the park offers a designated tent-only camping area. Rock climbing of all levels is perfect on its sheer tuff and basalt cliffs. Modern American sport climbing is often regarded as having its origins at Smith Rock, which is also home to cutting-edge climbing routes. It is well-liked for bouldering, multi-pitch climbing, classical climbing, and sports climbing.
You'll think you've just crossed the border into Utah when you visit Smith Rock State Park in Oregon. This state park is a must see for anybody traveling through Central Oregon because of its red rocks, which rise out of the state's high desert plain. There are many hiking options available in this area, including simple paths and viewing areas for non-hikers. The most well-liked hiking route in this area is called Misery Ridge, and it offers breath-taking panoramas of the surroundings. Smith Rock State Park offers camping, or a short 30-minute drive away lies the well-liked town of Bend.
Google Rating: 4.9/5.0
Address: Terrebonne, OR 97760, United States
Contact:+1 800-551-6949
Website: http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_51.php -
In the Cascade Range, west of Bend in the U.S. state of Oregon, Tumalo Falls is a 97-foot (30 m) waterfall that flows into Tumalo Creek. Upstream along Bridge Creek and its Bridge Creek Falls, a tributary of Tumalo Creek, are other waterfalls. The Deschutes National Forest has each of these waterfalls. About 14 miles (23 km) by forest roads from Bend, the Tumalo Falls Day Use Area is managed by the United States Forest Service. The day-use facility provides picnic areas, restrooms, and waterfall views in addition to providing access to hiking and mountain bike routes. A Northwest Forest Pass or payment of a charge is required to use the website.
No trekking is necessary to watch the waterfall; simply park in a neighboring lot and proceed a few short feet to the viewing location. However, it is about a quarter-mile trek if you want to see the falls from above. Not to fear, the hike is simple. Although Tumalo Falls is stunning all year round, there is something particularly special about it in the winter.
Google Rating: 4.7/5.0
Address: Cascade Range, west of Bend, Oregon, United States
Contact: N/A
Website: https://www.visitbend.com/listing/tumalo-falls/