Things To Do
in The Dalles
The Dalles is a city in Oregon, located along the Columbia River. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with hiking trails and parks offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The city has a rich history, with several historic sites and museums that showcase its past as a major trading hub in the region.
Today, The Dalles is a charming destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at the breathtaking Rowena Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy views of the Columbia River and observe local wildlife.
Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center to learn about the region's history and ecology. Take a stroll along the riverfront walking paths afterward.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor some Oregon wine. End your day with a sunset view at the Wasco County Historical Museum.
Rent a bike and ride along the scenic Historic Columbia River Highway. The smooth paths will lead you to stunning vistas of waterfalls and landscapes.
Stop for lunch at a local café in downtown The Dalles. Afterward, continue your bike adventure through the nearby vineyards.
Unwind with a relaxed dinner at a riverside restaurant. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the evening breeze.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful scenery with proximity to the Columbia River Gorge.
- Outdoor recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and water sports.
- Rich in history with several museums and historical sites.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Oregon.
- Growing local wine and craft beer scene.
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Public transportation options are sparse.
- Can experience extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters.
- Limited shopping and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
- Access to healthcare may be limited for specialized services.
- Sometimes faces issues with tourism crowding during peak seasons.
Best Activities in The Dalles
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning trails of the Columbia River Gorge, featuring waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and diverse ecosystems.
Enjoy a day of kayaking on the Columbia River, taking in breathtaking views and a chance to see wildlife along the waterway.
Bike along the Historic Columbia River Highway for beautiful vistas of the Columbia River and access to various parks and viewpoints.
Try your luck fishing at The Dalles Dam, where you can catch species such as salmon and steelhead.
Observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat, including birds, deer, and other animals in this scenic area.
Take a short trip to nearby wineries in the Columbia Valley for a delightful day of wine tasting and vineyard tours.
Camp at Deschutes River State Recreation Area, where you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and outstanding scenic views of the river.
Places to Visit in The Dalles
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge and opportunities for capturing beautiful photographs.
Provides panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, and surrounding landscapes, making it an ideal spot for photography.
Offers unique perspectives of the Columbia River and its surroundings, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Food in The Dalles
The Dalles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local delicacy made from sweet huckleberries, often found at the Baldwin Saloon.
Must-Try!
A local specialty that can be sampled at The Dalles Farmers' Market or at specialty food stores.
Savor the flavors of locally produced ciders at wineries and cideries in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An excellent place to explore local produce, artisanal foods, and grab a quick bite from food vendors.
Experience a variety of cuisines from food trucks offering everything from gourmet burgers to vegan bowls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take time to learn about the local customs and traditions in The Dalles, including any historical significance of the area. This understanding will help you engage respectfully with residents.
When interacting with locals, always use polite greetings. A simple 'hello' or 'how are you?' can go a long way in establishing rapport and showing respect.
Be mindful of the natural surroundings and the importance of environmental conservation to the local community. Participate in local initiatives or show respect for nature when visiting parks and outdoor areas.
Safety
Tipping in The Dalles
Ensure a smooth experience
In The Dalles, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. Generally, a tip of 15-20% of the total bill is considered standard for good service in restaurants. For other service industries, such as hairdressers and spa services, a similar percentage is often expected.
Most establishments in The Dalles accept a variety of payment methods, including cash, credit, and debit cards. Mobile payment options are also increasingly accepted. It is advisable to verify the payment methods accepted before dining or shopping, especially in more local or smaller businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities such as hiking and biking
Warm and dry weather, ideal for water-based activities on the Columbia River and exploring nearby attractions
Beautiful foliage and seasonal events like harvest festivals and wine tastings
Cool temperatures, occasional snowfall, and opportunities for snow sports in the nearby mountains
The Dalles at Night
Hiking in The Dalles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural area featuring numerous trails with breathtaking views of the Columbia River, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
A network of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, offering panoramic views of the Hood River Valley and Mount Hood.
A scenic viewpoint with accessible trails that provide outstanding views of the Columbia River Gorge and wildflower-filled landscapes.
A preserve with beautiful hiking trails that showcase the region's diverse flora and fauna, particularly stunning during wildflower season.
A hiking area with several trails that offer expansive views of the Columbia River, the surrounding hills, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Aiports
How to reach The Dalles by plane.
The largest airport in Oregon, located approximately 85 miles west of The Dalles, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Major international airport located around 175 miles north of The Dalles, serving a wide range of domestic and international destinations.
Located about 270 miles northeast of The Dalles, this airport provides both domestic and some limited international flights.
Located approximately 570 miles south of The Dalles, this airport serves as a key hub for domestic flights and offers a few international services.
Located approximately 600 miles south of The Dalles, it is one of the major international gateways to the United States.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in The Dalles, making up the majority of the population.
This group represents a significant portion of the population, reflecting a growing community.
A smaller demographic group in The Dalles, contributing to the city's diversity.
This group includes various Asian nationalities, making up a modest percentage of the population.
A small but important demographic group that holds cultural significance in the area.
Individuals identifying with multiple races, reflecting the diversity in The Dalles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played indoors in schools and recreational centers.
A widely followed sport, especially at the high school level, with local teams competing in leagues.
An increasingly popular sport among youth, with leagues and clubs available for various age groups.
A traditional American pastime, played both in youth leagues and at the high school level.
With its proximity to natural parks and the Columbia River Gorge, hiking is a popular outdoor activity.
The Dalles is known for fishing, especially in the Columbia River, attracting both locals and tourists.
With various trails and scenic routes, cycling is a favored activity for both recreation and commuting.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting The Dalles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in The Dalles provide a range of vegetarian dishes, including flavorful salads and plant-based entrees.
While fewer in number, several restaurants offer creative vegan dishes, such as grain bowls and vegan burgers.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating menus at various establishments, ensuring a stress-free dining experience.