Things To Do
in Oregon
Oregon is a Pacific Northwest state known for diverse landscapes—from rugged coastlines to volcanic peaks and lush valleys. It’s home to vibrant city life, world-class craft beer, and a strong focus on sustainability and outdoor recreation. Explore the urban culture in Portland, wine country in Willamette Valley, and dramatic scenery along the Oregon Coast and Cascade Range.
Expect friendly locals, plenty of rain in winter, and unforgettable natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Morning light spills along the coast as you step onto the sand and feel the spray on your skin. Salt air fills your lungs while the rhythm of the waves sets a gentle tempo for your wander.
Continue inland along scenic back roads to the Cascades, stopping for a hearty lunch at a rustic cafe. Emerald forests rise around you as you traverse towering pines and a winding river glints in the sun.
Check into a cozy inn with a view of treetops and lodge-inspired comforts. A dinner of local seafood and a crackling fire close the day as the stars begin to puncture the night.
Wake among old-growth sentinels and breathe mossy air as a trail unfurls beneath your boots. A chorus of birds follows you along slippery roots where ferns unfurl like green ribbons.
Pause for a picnic near a thundering waterfall and feel the mist kiss your cheeks. The forest swallows sounds except for the rush of water and the whisper of leaves in the wind.
Find a cabin or lodge tucked beside a stream and settle into the quiet after a day of exploration. Dinner arrives with hearty flavors and the night sounds of the forest provide a natural lullaby.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,500-2,800/month |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $60-120 |
| 🛒Monthly groceries | $250-500 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural diversity (coast, deserts, mountains)
- Strong craft beer and wine scenes
- Walkable cities in Portland with easy access to nature
- Rainy winters can be gray and wet
- Some tourist areas can be crowded in summer
- Driving between regions is common and can be lengthy
Places to Visit in Oregon
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Oregon coast scene with sea stacks, dramatic sunsets, and expansive shoreline.
Lush forest canyons with waterfalls such as Multnomah and Latourell; a top spot for waterfalls and long exposure shots.
Deep blue caldera lake with dramatic rim views and clear, reflective surfaces.
Snow-capped peaks, iconic mid-century lodge, and sweeping mountain landscapes year-round.
Stunning rock formations and cliff faces ideal for landscape photography and wildlife.
Food in Oregon
Oregon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tart, jammy pie made with Oregon's native Marionberries; widely available in bakeries across Portland and the Willamette Valley.
Must-Try!
A classic Northwest dish featuring fresh Dungeness crab with vegetables and Louie sauce; common at coastal and urban seafood spots.
Salmon grilled on cedar planks with dill and lemon, a staple in Oregon's coastal towns and river communities.
Hazelnuts are a regional specialty; try hazelnut praline, chocolates, or tarts from Willamette Valley producers.
Fresh oysters from Oregon coast served raw, charred, or in chowder at market halls and waterfront eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant open-air market featuring local artisans, street food, and live music near Old Town Portland.
Seasonal market with fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and farm-to-market goods in downtown Portland.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Oregonians value sustainability; pack out trash and minimize impact in natural areas.
Be patient in lines; people are generally friendly and helpful.
Tipping for service is common in restaurants and cafés; in casual settings, tips are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Oregon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants and services; 15-20% of the bill before tax is typical. For counter-service, tips are appreciated but not always expected.
Most places accept cash and cards; Oregon has no state sales tax, though local taxes may apply on some items.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Lush greenery with wildflowers; frequent showers, but pleasant temperatures overall.
Warm and dry in valleys; coast stays cooler. Perfect for outdoor activities but expect crowds in popular spots.
Mild days with colorful foliage in wine country and forests; ideal for photography and tastings.
Rain on the coast; snow in the mountains making for great skiing on Mount Hood and storm watching along the coast.
Oregon at Night
Hiking in Oregon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest canyon hike with creeks and waterfalls; iconic and photogenic.
Popular looping hike behind and beside multiple waterfalls in a lush forest.
Classic rock formations with sweeping cliff views; challenging but rewarding.
Remote alpine trails around the Three Sisters peaks; wildflower displays and dramatic scenery.
Circular rim route around Crater Lake offering dramatic caldera vistas.
Airports
How to reach Oregon by plane.
Major international hub for domestic and global flights; easy access to downtown via light rail and highways.
Regional airport serving the Eugene area; connects mainly to larger hubs through domestic carriers.
Medium-sized airport serving southern Oregon with connections to several major hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically large demographic with diverse urban and rural communities.
Growing presence with vibrant cultural events, markets, and bilingual services.
Growing communities contributing to diverse cuisine and festivals.
Rich historical presence with current tribal communities and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at schools, colleges, and community leagues; strong local following for college teams.
Growing popularity with outdoor leagues, youth programs, and local clubs.
Seasonal emphasis in schools and colleges; tailgates and stadium culture are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oregon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Portland and Oregon offer abundant vegetarian options; look for veggie bowls, plant-based entrees, and clearly marked menus. When dining out, request substitutions or ingredient lists to avoid animal products.