Have you ever visited a place that just feels…right? That was Oregon for me. I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect to fall for it as hard as I did. I actually overlooked this corner of the USA for a long time.
But there is a specific kind of magic in the Pacific Northwest that you won’t find anywhere else. The Beaver State is rugged, a bit moody, and incredibly creative.
One minute you are grabbing a world-class coffee in a city that prides itself on being ‘weird.’ The next, you are standing on a cliffside that feels like the edge of the world.
Oregon is for the adventurers. It is for the people who love a good road trip and don’t mind getting their boots a bit muddy.
If you are looking for the top things to do in Oregon, you are in for a treat. I’ve pulled together some absolute favourite spots to help you plan your own escape.
If you want a solid plan to follow, check out my Oregon itinerary for first-timers. It covers all the logistics you need for a smooth trip.
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| Booked It, Loved It: My Oregon Picks Where to Stay: Woodlark Hotel Portland Highlights: Pittock Mansion, Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Tour and Willamette Valley Wine Tour Flights to Portland: Skyscanner eSIM: Holafly Travel Insurance: SafetyWing |
What’s Inside This Oregon Guide
I want you to have the best possible trip. This guide covers everything from the quirky streets of Portland to the rugged coast.
We will explore the hidden gems of the high desert and the lush Tualatin Valley. I have packed this post with my personal June travel tips and a ‘best time to visit’ table.
You will find my hand-picked hotel recommendations to make your stay extra special. I’ve even included a section on the best local food and wine.
This post is your one-stop shop for planning an epic Pacific Northwest adventure. Let’s dive into the absolute top things to do in Oregon!
The Cheat Sheet: 11 Spots You Can’t Miss
If you are short on time, here are the 11 top things to do in Oregon that you should cover on your trip:
- The International Rose Test Garden (A Portland icon)
- Columbia River Gorge and Multnomah Falls (The crown jewel of the Gorge)
- Cannon Beach & Haystack Rock (Rugged coastal beauty)
- Portland’s Food Cart Pods (Specifically the Midtown Beer Garden)
- Powell’s City of Books (The world’s largest indie bookstore)
- Silver Falls State Park (The “Trail of Ten Waterfalls”)
- Washington Park (Nature in the heart of the city)
- The Tualatin Valley (Oregon’s underrated wine country)
- Ecola State Park (For the best coastal views)
- Hood River (The windsurfing capital of the world)
- Lan Su Chinese Garden (A peaceful sanctuary in Old Town)
Map of the Top Things to Do in Oregon
To make your planning even easier, I’ve pinned all the top things to do in Oregon onto this interactive map. You can save this to your phone and use it while you are on the road!
Best Things to Do in Oregon at a Glance
Oregon is a big state. You can’t see it all in one go, but you can certainly try! Here is a quick look at the best bits.
| Category | The Top Pick | Why You Will Love It |
| Must-See | Crater Lake | It is the deepest and bluest lake in the USA. |
| Coastal View | Cannon Beach | Famous for the massive Haystack Rock. |
| Adventure | Columbia River Gorge | Waterfalls and world-class biking trails. |
| City Vibe | Portland | Amazing food, coffee, and independent shops. |
| Hidden Gem | Painted Hills | Rare hills with bright red and gold stripes. |
Most people fly into Portland (PDX) to start their journey. From there, most of these top things to do in Oregon are within a half-day’s drive. It is a very road-trip-friendly state!
Choosing Your Adventure: When to Visit Oregon
I visited in June and found it a perfect introduction to the state but Oregon is truly a year-round destination.
| Season | Vibe | Why Go? | Best For… |
| Spring (March – May) | Fresh & Flowery | The waterfalls are at their most powerful. | Wildflowers and hiking. |
| Early Summer (June) | My Favourite! | Everything is lush and the days are super long. | Avoiding the peak crowds. |
| High Summer (July – Sept) | Sunny & Dry | Every mountain road and high-altitude trail is open. | Crater Lake and beach days. |
| Autumn (Oct – Nov) | Gold & Cosy | The vineyards turn incredible shades of orange. | Wine tasting in Tualatin Valley. |
| Winter (Dec – Feb) | Moody & Snowy | You can experience “the mist” and snowy mountains. | Skiing and cosy cabin stays. |
Expert Tips for Visiting Oregon in June
June is a magical time in the Beaver State. To make the most of your early summer trip, keep these ‘insider’ tips in mind:
- Layer Up: Pack a light fleece and waterproof shell for misty mornings.
- Coast is Cooler: It can be 10°C colder than Portland; always bring a hoodie!
- Permit Check: Book Multnomah Falls entry early to avoid missing out.
- Midday Rainbows: Look for rainbows in the waterfall spray around noon.
- Ocean Safety: Never turn your back on the Pacific—watch for sneaker waves.
- Max Sunlight: Enjoy the 9:00 PM sunsets for extra exploring time.
Mark Your Calendar: Oregon Events in June 2026
If you are visiting in June, you are in luck. The Beaver State truly comes alive with festivals this month. Here are three big events you should try to catch. These are easily some of the top things to do in Oregon this summer.
- Portland Rose Festival (June 2026): This is the city’s biggest party. For 2026, there is a big change! The Grand Floral Parade and the Starlight Parade are both happening on Saturday, June 6th. You can see the floral floats by day and the glowing lights by night!
- Sisters Rodeo (June 10–14, 2026): Head to the charming town of Sisters for “The Biggest Little Show in the World.” It is a fantastic way to see authentic Western culture. The Saturday morning parade through the town is a personal favourite.
- Bend Yoga Festival (June 11–14, 2026): This is perfect for the wellness crowd. You can practice yoga on riverfront lawns with views of the mountains. It is a very “Pacific Northwest” experience that is both relaxing and social.
1. Stare into the Blue of Crater Lake
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the USA. It sits inside a collapsed volcano and stays incredibly pure because no rivers feed it. You can drive the Rim Road to see ‘Wizard Island’ from every angle. It is easily one of the top things to do in Oregon.
In summer, hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail to touch the water. It is a steep climb back up, but the experience is legendary. Just check the National Park website before your drive. The North Entrance often stays closed until July due to snow!
Top Tip: Check the National Park website before your drive. The North Entrance often stays closed until July due to snow.
2. Bike the Columbia River Gorge and Visit Multnomah Falls
Just a short drive from Portland, the Gorge is a natural playground. It’s famous for having more waterfalls than almost anywhere else.
Rent a bike and ride the historic highway to feel the spray of the falls. It is much more peaceful than hunting for a parking spot!
If you decide to hire a car, the Historic Columbia River Highway is breathtaking. Stop at Cascade Locks for a break before seeing Multnomah Falls.
Top Tip: Start your ride at the Bridal Veil car park. Rent an e-bike. You’ll be thanking me later!
If you want the full route, check out my guide to biking the Columbia River Gorge. It is a day of pure adventure and amazing views.
3. Dive into the Portland Food Scene
Portland is built for food lovers. Skip the fancy restaurants and head straight for the food cart pods. You can grab authentic Thai food, vegan burgers, and artisanal waffles all in one spot. It is the best way to spend a lunch hour with friends.
The city also has a massive coffee culture. Every neighbourhood has a local roaster that takes their beans seriously. Grabbing a brew and people-watching is a must-do for a slow morning.
If you want to dive deeper into the local scene, check out my post on local artisans in Portland. It’s a great way to find unique souvenirs.
Top Tip: Visit the Prost! Pod on North Mississippi Avenue. It has a great seating area and some of the best food in the city.
4. Celebrate at the Portland Rose Festival
If you visit in June, you must join the party. Known as the ‘City of Roses,’ Portland’s Rose Festival is its biggest annual celebration. The Grand Floral Parade is the star, featuring floats covered in real flowers.
It is a fun, happy event that shows off the city’s spirit. I’ve written a separate guide to the parade with all my best tips.
Top Tip: Stake out a spot on the pavement at least an hour before the parade starts. The best views are near the Memorial Coliseum.
5. Sunset at Cannon Beach
This is one of the most iconic spots on the West Coast. Haystack Rock sits right on the beach and looks incredibly dramatic at low tide. You can walk right to the base to see nesting puffins!
The sunsets here are legendary, turning the sky pink and orange behind the rock’s silhouette. The town itself is full of art galleries and saltwater taffy shops.
Top Tip: Ecola State Park gives you that classic ‘Goonies’ view of the coastline. A lot of the film was shot nearby in Astoria, so it’s a must if you’re a fan like me.
| Where To Stay * My Personal Choice: Woodlark Hotel – This is where I stayed. A stylish boutique hotel set across two historic buildings, with a botanical, moody vibe I loved. Plus, there’s an on-site café, Good Coffee, ideal for a morning brew before exploring. * The Coastal Luxury: The Ocean Lodge – The ultimate beachfront stay in Cannon Beach. Cosy, high-end, steps from Haystack Rock, with a huge stone fireplace and free cookies around the clock. * The Artistic Hub: Jupiter NEXT – Located in the Central Eastside, this hotel is super modern and artsy. It is perfect if you want to be near the best craft breweries and local music venues. |
6. Walk Behind a Waterfall at Silver Falls
Silver Falls State Park is like a fairytale. The ‘Trail of Ten Falls’ leads you through a lush, mossy canyon. As the name suggests, you pass ten stunning waterfalls.
The best part? You can actually walk behind several of them! Standing behind a massive curtain of roaring water is a magical experience. Just wear shoes with a good grip, as the paths get misty and slick.
Top Tip: If you are short on time, just do the South Falls loop. It is the most dramatic waterfall and only takes about half an hour.
| Explore More of Oregon Don’t stop here! I have written deep-dive guides for these specific spots: 🌹 Rose Festival: Read the full parade guide here 🚲Gorge Biking: See my exact cycling route 🎨 Portland Makers: Where to shop local |
7. Discover the Painted Hills
Located in Central Oregon, the Painted Hills look like another planet. These hills feature vibrant stripes of red, gold, and black soil. The colours actually shift depending on the light and moisture in the air!
It is a quiet, peaceful place that feels like a hidden world. While it is a bit of a drive, the unique landscape is worth the trek. It is one of the top things to do in Oregon for photography lovers.
Top Tip: Try to visit in the late afternoon. The ‘Golden Hour’ light makes the red stripes look like they are glowing.
8. Sip Pinot Noir in the Tualatin Valley
Oregon is world-famous for its Pinot Noir. I visited the Tualatin Valley and loved the intimate, boutique wineries. Most spots are family-owned and offer a very warm, personal welcome.
You can spend a day driving through rolling hills for tastings with incredible views. The vibe here is much more relaxed than other famous wine regions. It is a fantastic way to enjoy the local ‘farm-to-glass’ culture.
Top Tip: Visit a winery near Banks or Gaston for the best views. The Coast Range mountains look spectacular from those northern tasting rooms.
9. Road Trip the Samuel H. Boardman Coast
If you want to see the wild side of the Oregon coast, head south. The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a stretch of cliffs and coves that will take your breath away. It is much less crowded than the northern coast, making it feel like a true hidden gem.
There are natural bridges and sea stacks everywhere. The hiking trails go right along the edge of the cliffs. It feels very raw and untouched. You can spend a whole afternoon finding secret spots here. It is a photographer’s dream and one of the top things to do in Oregon.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the ‘Secret Beach’ trailhead. It is a short, steep walk down to a hidden cove that feels completely private.
| Oregon Tour Cheat Sheet Want to skip the driving? I recommend these top tours for a stress-free trip. Willamette Valley Wine Tour: Includes three boutique wineries and a local lunch. Columbia Gorge Waterfalls: See the ‘Big 5’. Perfect for amazing photos without the parking stress! Oregon Coast Day Trip: Covers Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock, and Ecola State Park. |
The Portland City Round-up: Urban Gems
If you have stayed with me this far, you are a true adventurer! We have covered the coast and the mountains. Now, let’s head back into the city.
Portland is the heart of the Beaver State. These final spots are my absolute favourites for a day in town. They are the top things to do in Oregon if you want to experience the true ‘Stumptown’ vibe.
10. Get Lost in Powell’s Books
You can’t go to Portland and not visit Powell’s. It is the largest independent bookstore in the world! It takes up an entire city block with multiple floors. They even give you a colour-coded map at the door so you don’t get lost.
I spent three hours wandering through the stacks. They sell new and used books on the same shelves, which is such a lovely touch. It is a treasure trove for any reader and one of the top things to do in Oregon.
Top Tip: Visit the Coffee Room on the gold floor. It is the perfect place to start reading your new finds.
11. Find Peace in the Lan Su Chinese Garden
The Lan Su Chinese Garden is a hidden sanctuary in downtown Portland. Artisans from Suzhou, Portland’s sister city, built this Ming Dynasty-style oasis. It is full of winding paths, bridges, and beautiful pavilions.
Walking over the bridges of Zither Lake feels like a total escape. Make sure you visit the authentic tea house inside the garden. Sipping tea while looking over the water is the most peaceful way to end a busy trip.
Top Tip: Check the schedule for local events like calligraphy or tea ceremonies. These sessions add a lovely layer of culture to your visit.
Bonus Guide: Exploring Washington Park
If you have extra time, do not miss the Washington Park. It is one of the most iconic top things to do in Oregon!
Getting to the park is super easy from downtown. You can take the MAX Light Rail (Blue or Red line), which drops you at the deepest transit station in North America! Once you are there, you can use the free shuttle to hop between these spots:
- Portland Japanese Garden: This is right next to the Rose Garden. It is incredibly serene and offers one of the best views of Mt. Hood.
- Hoyt Arboretum: If you love trees, this ‘living museum’ has miles of beautiful trails. It is perfect for a peaceful morning hike.
- Oregon Zoo: Great for families or animal lovers. They do incredible conservation work with the California Condor.
Sustainable Stumptown: The Green Travel Angle
In 2026, Portland is the ultimate eco-destination. It is the perfect place for a ‘green’ getaway. The city makes it easy to lower your carbon footprint while you explore. Here is how I kept my trip sustainable:
- Ride Biketown Ebikes: You will see bright orange bikes everywhere. Renting one is the most ‘Portland’ way to get around! It is perfect for hopping between food cart pods and keeps the air clean.
- Master the TriMet System: I barely used a car in the city. The TriMet buses and MAX light rail are world-class. Even better, the MAX system is powered by 100% renewable energy!
- Support Local Artisans: Portlanders love local. Buying from small shops keeps money in the community. It also reduces emissions from shipping mass-produced goods.
Oregon Travel for All: Accessibility & Inclusion
I want everyone to enjoy the magic of the Beaver State. During my trip, I noticed how hard Oregon works to be inclusive. If you have mobility needs or are travelling with a pram, here is what you need to know.
- Nature for Everyone: The lower viewing platform at Multnomah Falls is fully paved. It offers a stunning view without needing to hike. Many trails in the Columbia River Gorge also offer accessible options.
- City Transport: Portland is a leader in accessible travel. The MAX Light Rail stations have elevators. Every city bus and the Washington Park shuttle feature low-floor boarding for wheelchairs.
- Sand and Surf: Don’t let the sand stop you at the coast! You can actually borrow “beach wheelchairs” for free in Cannon Beach. Just check the official city website to book one in advance.
- Quiet Spaces: If you need a break from the crowds, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is a wonderful choice. It is flat, paved, and incredibly peaceful.
FAQ: Planning Your Trip to Oregon
When is the best time to visit Oregon? June to September offers the best weather for exploring. I visited in June and loved the lush scenery. High-altitude spots like Crater Lake may still have snow until July.
Do I need a car to see the top things to do in Oregon? Yes, I highly recommend renting a car. Public transport is great in Portland, but you need wheels for the coast. A car gives you the freedom to find hidden gems.
How many days should I spend in Oregon? Seven to ten days is a perfect amount of time. This allows you to see Portland, the coast, and the mountains. You won’t feel rushed on your road trip.
What should I pack for an Oregon trip? Layers are essential for the Pacific Northwest. Even in summer, the evenings can get quite chilly. Always bring a waterproof jacket for those misty morning walks.
Is Oregon Worth Visiting? The answer is a massive yes. Oregon is a place that feels very genuine. It isn’t trying to be anything other than what it is. It is wild, creative and incredibly beautiful.
Is Oregon Worth Visiting?
Oregon really is a place that stays with you. I hope this guide helps you plan your own dream trip to the Beaver State! Whether you are a hiker, a foodie, or a book lover, you will find something to fall in love with here.
Have you been to any of these spots? Or is Oregon still on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!
| Planning Your First Trip? If this is your first time in the Beaver State, I have made things even easier for you with my I have a full, day-by-day Itinerary. Click here to read my perfect Oregon itinerary for first-time visitors |
Note: I visited Oregon as part of a hosted press trip with Travel Oregon. As always, all opinions and ‘must-see’ recommendations are entirely my own!
