10 budget-friendly ways to enjoy Oregon

Oregon is a diverse vacation paradise all in one state.

Beyond its stunning natural landscapes, the Beaver State boasts vineyards, vibrant cities, and exciting cultural events like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. The only downside? With so many attractions, your trip can quickly become expensive.

Fortunately, you can explore Oregon without breaking the bank. With some smart planning, you can visit must-see spots in Oregon—such as the Pacific Ocean, Crater Lake National Park, and cities like Portland—for less.

Daily expenses in Oregon

• Hostel dormitory stay: $28

• Standard hotel room for two: $100

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $110

• Camping fees: $17 per tent site

• Public transportation: $5.60 for a day pass in Portland

• Coffee: $3–6 per cup

• Sandwich: $10

• Dinner for two: $50

• Wine tasting: $15

Skip the car rental

Avoid the expense and inconvenience of renting a car on your next visit to Portland. Most of the city's main attractions are easily walkable from downtown, and bike-sharing and scooter rentals are available at nearly every corner. For longer trips, a day pass for Portland’s TriMet transportation system (covering light rail, commuter rail, and bus services) costs just $5.60.

Oregon’s inter-city bus service, Point, provides budget-friendly travel for longer trips. The picturesque route from Portland to Astoria is particularly favored, with tickets priced at just $18 each way. Upon arrival, downtown Astoria is easily navigable on foot. In the warmer months, you can also enjoy a ride on the historic riverfront trolley for only $2 a day.

Insider tip: If you're flying in, catch the light rail at the southern end of the PDX terminal building.

Discover the highlights of Oregon with our guide to the top attractions

Explore the beach during the shoulder season

The Oregon coast sees its peak popularity from Memorial Day to the end of September, leading to higher lodging prices. Visiting outside this window can save you money. Spring and fall often bring pleasant weather, and the beaches are much less crowded. Even winter's stormy days can be breathtaking as waves crash against the shore.

Buy your lift tickets ahead of time

If you're gearing up for a ski trip to places like Timberline or Mt Bachelor, consider purchasing your lift ticket online to save money. If your schedule is flexible, check multiple dates to snag the best rate. Typically, the earlier you book, the better the price you’ll find. With ski season in Oregon often extending into April or May, you have plenty of options.

Discover Southern Oregon

Beyond must-see spots like Crater Lake National Park, Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Southern Oregon boasts exceptional vineyards and wineries. It’s not just a wonderful vacation spot; lodging, dining, and activities like wine tasting typically cost less than in popular areas like Portland or the Willamette Valley. Consider staying in Grants Pass, Ashland, or Klamath Falls to save money while enjoying unforgettable experiences.

Reserve hotel rooms or rental homes during weekdays

Hotels and rental properties often charge lower rates during the week compared to weekends. If your travel dates are flexible, experiment with booking platforms to see how rates vary throughout the week. The savings can go toward meals or transportation.

Utilize free or discounted museum entry days

Many of Oregon’s premier museums frequently offer free or reduced admission days. For instance, the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton has free entry on the first Friday of each month, the Portland Art Museum allows free admission on the first Thursday, and the Omni Museum of Science and Industry charges only $5 on the first Sunday. Museum websites usually provide details on free entry and discount days.

Opt for hostel accommodations

Connect with fellow travelers and save on lodging by staying at places like the Portland Hostel, where dorm beds can be as low as $36 per night. If you’re headed to the Oregon coast, a shared room at the Seaside Lodge and International Hostel is about $50 a night. In Southern Oregon, shared rooms at the Ashland Commons Hostel can start at just $28 per night.

Make the most of your trip to Oregon with this seasonal guide

Try camping

Oregon’s state parks are not only stunning, but they also provide great accommodations. While fees vary by park, you can generally expect to pay around $17 per night for a tent site, $30–40 for a non-resident RV site, and approximately $50 per night for a yurt or rustic cabin. For precise rates, check online for your specific dates and preferred location.

Get a wine-tasting passport

Tasting fees at Oregon’s wineries typically range from $15 to $25 per person, but they can be higher depending on the winery. If you plan to visit multiple wineries, this can add up quickly. The Heart of Willamette Passport provides free or discounted tastings at wineries in the Corvallis area for a one-time fee of $45. If you’re with someone else, a second passport is available at a $5 discount.

Look for happy hour deals

Happy hour might not be a new trend, but in a food-loving city like Portland, the discounts can be particularly satisfying. Enjoy $5 cocktails and two tacos for just $5 at Pig Patas Tacos, or indulge in $10 chicken sandwiches paired with half-priced bottles of wine at Radio Room. Great happy hour deals are also available throughout the state, such as $6 for poutine and wings alongside discounted drinks at Taproot Lounge and Cafe in Salem.