Top 10 Amazing Experiences in Oregon

With breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and culinary delights, you'll never run out of things to enjoy in Oregon, though trying might be a thrill in itself.

Imagine Oregon as a vast canvas splashed with countless hues, open to interpretation. For some, the Beaver State shines through the urban charm of a city like Portland; for others, it reveals its wild side in the stunning coastlines, arid high desert, majestic mountains, or Crater Lake National Park.

This diversity is what makes Oregon irresistible. You can revisit time and again, discovering something fresh with each trip. Here are our top picks for unforgettable activities in Oregon to spark your next adventure.

1. Discover the Wonders of Crater Lake National Park

Oregon boasts a single national park, but it’s a powerhouse. At 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and ranks as the ninth deepest globally. Set within a caldera atop Mt. Mazama, Crater Lake dazzles with its striking blue hue, almost too vivid to be real. Even if you only step out of your vehicle to gaze at its waters, the journey is worthwhile. If you linger (which you should), explore 90 miles of trails, including the 1-mile looped, wheelchair-accessible Godfrey Glen Trail and the moderately challenging -mile trek to Garfield Peak, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the Cascade Mountains. In summer, enjoy boat rides to Wizard Island and accessible trolley tours.

Tip for your visit: Crater Lake National Park typically sees about 42 inches of snowfall each winter, primarily between November and March, though October, April, May, or June snow isn’t uncommon. The winter landscape is stunning and less crowded, but road closures might restrict access. Always check the NPS website for weather updates prior to your visit.

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2. Embark on a Road Trip along the Oregon Coast Scenic Byway

The 363-mile journey along the Oregon Coast Scenic Byway promises an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking rock formations, crashing waves, and the chance to spot wildlife such as seals and whales. It begins in Astoria and concludes in Brookings, taking you through quaint coastal towns, historic lighthouses, and endless sandy beaches that are completely free and accessible.

Key stops feature a wheelchair-friendly stroll along a century-old, 1.5-mile beachfront promenade in Seaside, as well as Haystack Rock, a towering 235-foot sea stack in Cannon Beach. Other must-see attractions include complimentary self-guided tours at the Tillamook Creamery, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the bustling sea lions at the Sea Lion Caves, and the scenic Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

Travel tip: The beauty of this scenic drive is that you can stop wherever and whenever you wish. Be sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to avoid last-minute scrambling for a place to stay.

3. Stay at the Weasku Inn located near Grants Pass

The Weasku Inn began as a fishing lodge in 1924, welcoming notable guests like Clark Gable and Walt Disney. Today, the great room radiates historic allure with its wooden beams, stone fireplace, and framed photographs of iconic visitors from Hollywood's golden age. The Weasku Inn is perfectly situated for exploring Grants Pass and Southwest Oregon, with nearby attractions such as the Oregon National Cave Monument and Preserve, thrilling adventures on the Rogue River through Hellgate Jetboat Excursions, and delightful wine tasting at Applegate Valley wineries like Schmidt Family Vineyards and Troon Vineyard.

Travel tip: The route to the Oregon National Cave Monument and Preserve can be steep and winding. It may close temporarily in winter following heavy snowfall.

4. Explore the Attractions in Portland

Portland’s position along the Willamette River offers endless recreational options, from swimming and kayaking to a wheelchair-accessible stroll at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Afterward, immerse yourself in the world’s largest independent bookstore, Powell’s City of Books. When hunger strikes, indulge in Portland’s famous food carts, conveniently located throughout the city, including the Third Avenue Food Cart Pod. However, Portland is a culinary haven, and we can't cover all our favorites here, so be sure to explore our list of the best restaurants loved by locals. Don’t miss other highlights like the beautiful Portland Japanese Garden and the Portland Saturday Market, the longest-running arts and crafts fair in the US (open from March to Christmas Eve).

Travel tip: Navigating Portland without a car is a breeze. The Max Redline connects directly from the airport to Pioneer Courthouse Square, where numerous hotels are just a few blocks away. Many of the riverfront attractions and top spots are within walking distance from downtown, and you can also use light rail, buses, and bike shares.

5. Immerse Yourself in Shakespeare in Ashland

Despite its name, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival goes beyond the Bard. Running from March through October, the festival features not only Shakespeare but also Broadway musicals, comedies, dramas, experimental plays, and more at various venues across the city.

While you could easily spend your entire visit enjoying theatrical performances, Ashland offers a multitude of other activities. Experience rafting on the Rogue and Klamath Rivers, take a leisurely stroll through the expansive 93-acre Lithia Park, or savor Rogue Valley wines at tasting rooms like Weisinger Family Winery and Irvine and Robert Vineyards. For more top things to do in Ashland, check out our guide to this vibrant city.

Detour: Ashland is just 1½ hours away from Crater Lake National Park. If you haven't experienced it yet, be sure to take the opportunity while you're in the vicinity.

6. Wander through Vineyards and Enjoy Wine Tasting in Willamette Valley

With more than 20 federally recognized American Viticulture Areas and over 900 wineries, Oregon’s Willamette Valley is a wine lover's paradise. In Forest Grove, you’ll discover 65 wineries within a 20-mile radius, including the charming farmhouse tasting room of David Hill Winery. The town is also home to the sake distillery Sake One, which offers intriguing weekend tours. If you decide to stay overnight, the McMenamins Grand Lodge Hotel is a quirky and enjoyable option, featuring reasonably priced rooms, live music, multiple bars and restaurants, a spa, and a theater.

McMinnville features over 20 walkable downtown tasting rooms and more than 250 wineries within a 20-mile radius. Be sure to savor some of Oregon’s finest Burgundy-style pinot noir and chardonnay at the stunning Resonance Wines tasting rooms in Carlton and Dundee Hills. This area also hosts some of the best accommodations in Oregon, ranging from luxury boutiques like Atticus Hotel to the quirky retro stays at the Vintages Trailer Resort. If you’re planning a trip to Willamette Valley, take a look at our first timer's guide to the region.

Travel tip: Willamette Valley is renowned for its native white truffles, typically harvested from November to May. The Oregon Truffle Festival offers events between February and March, featuring a truffle dog competition, special dinners, foraging tours, and a truffle trail.

7. Enjoy Craft Beer and Outdoor Adventures in Bend

In terms of outdoor adventure, there’s virtually nothing you can’t do in Bend. Nestled along the Deschutes River, Bend is a paradise for rafting, fishing, and kayaking. Even if you choose not to venture onto the water, Bend Whitewater Park provides excitement for both spectators and those riding the waves.

The surrounding area is filled with underground caves, mountains, and extensive hiking and biking trails. In summer, explore the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, a 54,000-acre landscape featuring lakes, forests, and otherworldly lava formations created by volcanic activity. Skiers also cherish Bend, as the Mt Bachelor ski season typically extends into late April or early May.

After a day filled with activities, treat yourself to a pint at one of Bend’s 30-plus breweries. Use the Bend Ale Trail app or grab a complimentary paper passport at the Bend Visitor Center to locate your nearest brewery.

Detour: Smith Rock State Park, located 25 miles from Bend, is a stunning landscape of copper-hued canyons, rivers, and towering rock formations, perfect for hiking, rock climbing, or simply taking in the breathtaking views.

Want more ideas for your time in Bend? Here’s some inspiration

8. Dive into Native American Culture

Experience 10,000 years of traditions from the Cayuse, Walla Walla, and Umatilla tribes at the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton. This venue goes beyond a typical museum, offering a deep dive into the culture through artifacts, interactive displays, and current initiatives to restore salmon habitats. Don’t forget to check the events calendar for special programs, art exhibitions, discounts in the gift shop, and free admission on the first Friday of each month.

Pendleton is home to the renowned Pendleton Woolen Mills, famous for its high-quality wool products. Factory tours are available, but space is limited, so make sure to register in advance. If you plan to visit in the fall, align your trip with the Pendleton Round-Up in September. This weeklong celebration, which dates back over a century, features rodeo competitions, parades, and concerts.

Detour: Pendleton is a three-hour drive from the prehistoric John Day Fossil Beds, where you can see fossils that are 44 million years old and enjoy scenic drives through the vibrantly striped Painted Hills formations.

9. Immerse Yourself in the Columbia River Gorge, the Largest National Scenic Area in the U.S.

The Columbia River Gorge holds the title of the largest national scenic area in the nation, and it’s easy to see why. This region is a spectacular landscape filled with waterfalls, lush forests, and towering cliffs, with the powerful Columbia River coursing through it all. One of the most iconic sights is Multnomah Falls, a stunning 620-foot waterfall surrounded by hiking trails, where the lower falls area offers excellent wheelchair-accessible views.

Other must-visit spots include breathtaking viewpoints from the historic Crown Point Vista House and the informative Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Be sure to explore Hood River, a picturesque river town renowned for its culinary scene, breweries, and kite surfing.

Detour: Hood River is just a 45-minute drive from Timberline Lodge, the historic ski resort that appeared in exterior shots of the 1980 film The Shining. Enjoy a meal at the restaurant, admire the impressive 92-foot-tall fireplace, or stay overnight before continuing your Oregon journey.

10. Relax in Mother Nature’s Bath

You can enjoy a hot soak almost anywhere, but Oregon elevates the experience with its natural springs filled with steaming, mineral-rich waters. While some spots, like Lithia Springs Resort, are exclusive to guests, the majority of Oregon’s hot springs are located on public lands or at resorts that offer day passes.

Oregon's hot spring resorts that provide day passes include Crane Hot Springs, Breitenbush Hot Springs, and Summer Lake Hot Springs. Public natural hot springs can be found at Umpqua Hot Springs or Paulina Lake, both accessible for $5 per vehicle or with a Northwest Forest Pass. For a comprehensive list of the best hot springs and how to visit them, check out our guide to Oregon's top hot springs.