Looking for the best things to do in Oregon?? Here’s the list with all the travel information that you need for planning a family tour.
Oregon is a fertile and picturesque state located on the shores of the North Pacific Ocean in the United States. So, you can experience many natural wonders in Oregon.
For example, there are pristine beaches, beautiful nature parks, stunning lakes, Columbia River, Snake River, huge mountains, spectacular waterfalls, and many more. Therefore, Oregon offers you tons of fun outdoor activities too.
The top tourist attractions in Oregon are Cannon Beach, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Crater Lake National Park, Mount Bachelor Ski Area, Washington Park, and Oregon Film Museum.
Do you like to discover the complete list? Well, here’s the full list of the best and fun things to do in Oregon.
Things to Do in Oregon
1. Things to Do in Oregon: Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is one of the most popular beach towns in the United States.
Located on the northern Oregon coast, its iconic features are the long, sandy shore, jagged coastal rocks, scenic ocean views, and hiking trails in Ecola State Park.
When it comes to the jagged coastal rocks of Cannon Beach, the largest (235 feet tall) and the most highlighted one is Haystack Rock. And it really offers an impressive backdrop for your photos.
Aside from the family-friendly shoreline, Cannon Beach is close to the enchanting Ecola State Park and Tillamook Head too. Mainly, Ecola State Park features exciting hiking trails with scenic ocean views, making it one of the best family-friendly destinations in Oregon.
Cannon Beach invites you to experience swimming in the cerulean water, sunbathing, watching spectacular sunsets, beachcombing with kids, observing diverse marine life in tide pools, birdwatching, and walking on the soft sand.
Also, Cannon Beach town has all the beach amenities, including restaurants, great hotels, boutique shops, and whatever you need.
So, accept the invitation and plan a tour with your family.
Address: US-101, Cannon Beach, OR 97110, United States Phone: (503) 436-2623
Things to Do in Oregon
2. Things to Do in Oregon: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is undoubtedly the most amazing natural wonder in Oregon.
Being a canyon of the Columbia River, it is 4,000 feet deep and stretches for over 80 miles. And it forms the boundary between Oregon and Washington.
The awe-inspiring Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a premier hiking destination that attracts millions of tourists annually.
You can experience numerous waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls and Punchbowl Falls. And also, there are many hiking trails and biking trails that you can try while camping in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
On the other hand, traveling along the Historic Columbia River Highway passing this stunning gorge is undoubtedly one of the best scenes to watch in Oregon.
If you are looking for a scenic weekend getaway (away from the hustle and bustle), plan camping in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area with your family.
Address: Hood River, OR 97031, United States Phone: +1 541-308-1700
Looking for amazing waterfalls in Oregon?? Here’s the complete list with all travel information.
Things to Do in Oregon
3. Things to Do in Oregon: Crater Lake National Park
The scenic Crater Lake is an intensely blue and bottomless lake formed by the collapsed volcano, Mount Mazama.
The Crater Lake, Wizard Island, The Rim Drive begins at Rim Village and 183,224 acres of surrounding forms the spectacular Crater Lake National Park in the Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon.
Since this national park is filled with scenic hiking trails, exciting campgrounds like Mazama Campground, breathtaking mountain backdrops, sparkling azure water, and towering trees, it attracts thousands of visitors annually.
So, people visit Crater Lake National Park during summer for camping, hiking through picturesque trails, stargazing, fishing, swimming, mountain biking, and cruising to Wizard Island from Cleetwood Cove.
On the other hand, Crater Lake National Park offers tons of winter activities too. For example, you can go snowshoeing, skiing, sledding, ice-fishing, winter camping, and many other things.
Here’s the best Crater Lake camping guide for camp lovers.
Address: Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, United States Phone: +1 541-594-3000
Things to Do in Oregon
4. Mount Bachelor Ski Area, Bend
Bend is an attractive city located in the middle of Oregon. There’s always something to see and do since it is a mix of mountains, volcanoes, forests, and dry plains.
For example, if you visit Bend during winter, you can try all the winter sports. And the best place for that is the Mount Bachelor Ski Resort. Located on Mount Bachelor, this excellent ski area spreads for more than 4,300 skiable acres.
So, pack your warm clothing and ski suit to experience skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and many other winter activities at Mount Bachelor Ski Resort.
On the other hand, this Ski Resort offers private lessons and guided ski excursions for kids and beginners.
That means whether you are a beginner or experienced skier, Mount Bachelor Ski Area warmly welcomes you all.
Are you ready to ski?
Address: 13000 SW Century Dr, Bend, OR 97702, United States Phone: +1 541-382-1709
Looking for the best ski resorts in Utah?? Here’s the list.
Things to Do in Oregon
5. Washington Park, Portland
Washington Park is one of the top attractions in Oregon. And it features a zoo, arboretum, rose garden, forestry museum, children’s museum, Japanese garden, memorials, archery range, amphitheater, soccer field, tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, and many hiking trails through wild forest areas.
The park spreads for 458 acres. And the Portland Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden are the most attractive gardens for sure.
And also, the Oregon Zoo and the Portland Children’s Museum at Washington Park attract thousands of families annually.
Since the park is huge and attractions are scattered, Washington Park operates a daily free shuttle during the high season (between April and September).
If you are into hiking, Washington Park is perfect for that too. Undoubtedly the park features the best hiking trails in the Portland area.
Address: 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221, United States Phone: +1 503-319-0999
Things to Do in Oregon
6. Oregon Film Museum, Astoria
Astoria is a charming beach city in Oregon with inspiring surroundings. Do you remember the 80s cult-classic movie, The Goonies? Astoria was the backdrop of that movie.
Aside from the pristine Astoria Beach, its most popular tourist attraction is the Oregon Film Museum.
It is a museum that features exhibits related to the legacy of television and movie production in Oregon. And you can see props and items used in famous films like The Goonies, Come See The Paradise, Free Willy, and many more.
Oregon Film Museum offers you a chance to make a short movie with your family, take funny mug shots, and do much other fun stuff.
After visiting Oregon Film Museum, check out the Flavel House Museum in Astoria because it provides historical insight into Astoria.
Address: 732 Duane St, Astoria, OR 97103, United States Phone: +1 503-325-2203
Things to Do in Oregon
7. Things to Do in Oregon: Mount Hood National Forest
Mount Hood National Forest is a scenic natural forest located east of Portland and south of the Columbia River Gorge.
And Mount Hood, the highest mountain in Oregon with 11,239 ft height, is a dormant volcano capped by glaciers. Therefore, its Mount Hood Skibowl offers fantastic skiing opportunities.
Aside from that, Mount Hood National Forest features picturesque hiking trails like Timberline Trail, the famous Pacific Crest Trail, and many others.
Also, Mount Hood National Forest’s historic town Government Camp and 1930s Timberline Lodge attracts many visitors annually.
Along with that, Mount Hood National Forest features the spectacular Trillium Lake, stunning waterfalls, hot springs, glacial creeks, and meadows too.
Simply that means Mount Hood National Forest is filled with summer and winter activities for every outdoor enthusiast. So, come along with your family and friends.
Address: Sandy, OR 97055, United States Phone: +1 503-668-1700
Things to Do in Oregon
8. Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve, Cave Junction
Looking for an adventurous cavern tour in Oregon?? Here’s the chance.
Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve is a 4,554-acre park that features a breathtakingly beautiful cave known as the Marble Halls of Oregon.
Located on the Siskiyou Mountains of southwestern Oregon, Caves National Monument and Preserve offer various ranger-led tours for visitors.
If you are in this park with your friends, book a Discovery Cave Tour that takes you through the cave 220 feet beneath the surface.
Another famous cave tour in Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve is the Candlelight Cave Tour. It takes you to explore the caves by the light of a flickering candle.
Or, if you are here with your kiddos, book the Kids and Family Tour, which is safer for kids.
Come on, let’s discover this underground beauty together.
Address: 19000 Caves Hwy, Cave Junction, OR 97523, United States Phone: +1 541-592-2100
Things to Do in Oregon
9. Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Bend
Bend is a scenic city located on the Deschutes River in Oregon. As mentioned above, it is filled with a lot of enjoyable things to do.
For example, Bend’s High Desert Museum features informative exhibits about the surrounding arid regions. And Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway offers you a chance to drive through scenic lakes, mountains, picnic areas, and campsites in the Deschutes National Forest.
Also, the iconic Tumalo Falls and Smith Rock are some of the top attractions in Bend too.
If you cannot cover them all, but surely consider Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts. This national monument protects Newberry Volcano and its surrounding.
Newberry National Volcanic Monument features stunning geological features, crystalline lakes, and lush greenery surrounding. Therefore, you can enjoy plenty of fun activities like horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, camping, boating, kayaking, swimming, and fishing during summer.
When it comes to winter, you can have a blast while snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling.
All the above hot tourist attractions prove that visiting Bend is one of the top things to do in Oregon for sure.
Address: Bend, OR 97702, United States Phone: +1 541-383-5300
Things to Do in Oregon
10. Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, Eugene
Located at the University of Oregon, the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art was opened in 1930.
Since this art museum features an impressive Victorian architecture style and tons of art exhibits and galleries, it attracts thousands of visitors annually.
Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art also hosts art programs, events, art film screenings, and workshops for art lovers.
If you like to learn every detail about each masterpiece in this museum, just take a guided tour.
Address: 1430 Johnson Lane, Eugene, OR 97403, United States Phone: +1 541-346-3027
Things to Do in Oregon
11. Oregon Coast Aquarium, Newport
Newport is a city in Oregon that contains a mix of Victorian heritage and scenic beaches.
This scenic beach city offers you tons of beach activities and many family-friendly tourist attractions.
For example, Newport has Oregon Coast Aquarium, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Yaquina Bay, Hatfield Marine Science Center, and many breathtakingly beautiful beaches.
Especially, Oregon Coast Aquarium is a world-class aquarium that offers a home to thousands of diverse marine animals. Therefore, it attracts many families with kids.
Oregon Coast Aquarium features Keiko, harbor seals, sharks, octopi, jellyfish, and shorebirds like tufted puffin and brown pelican, featuring many indoor and outdoor animal exhibits. So, visit this fantastic aquarium with your kids.
On the other hand, Hatfield Marine Science Center, located next to Yaquina Bay in Newport, offers research facilities and information related to marine creatures in Yaquina Bay.
And also, Yaquina Head Lighthouse is a beautiful lighthouse located on the Newport coastline. Surely visit it too.
Aside from that, Newport is one of the best destinations in Oregon for whale watching and camping.
Hurry up, plan your Newport tour now.
Address: 2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd, Newport, OR 97365, United States Phone: +1 541-867-3474
Things to Do in Oregon
12. Things to Do in Oregon: Willamette Valley, Portland
Willamette Valley is the leading wine region in Oregon. Spreading for 150 miles, Willamette Valley is home to more than six hundred wineries and scenic vineyards.
If you are a wine fan and looking for a romantic getaway in Oregon, surely consider Willamette Valley. You can experience wine tasting, beautiful views of huge vineyards, live music shows, hiking, and biking through gorgeous vineyards.
On the other hand, Willamette Valley is home to Salem, the state capital of Oregon. And Salem features Willamette Heritage Center, historic theaters, a fun amusement park, Riverfront City Park, and the State Capitol building.
Especially, Willamette Heritage Center is a 19th-century historic site that features fourteen impressive historical structures, an onsite art gallery, artist studios, retail shops, and many other things.
And also, you can visit an old textile mill, a church, a methodist parsonage, and learn more about Oregon’s history. If you are a history buff, do not miss visiting Willamette Heritage Center on your Willamette Valley tour.
Address: 1313 Mill St SE, Salem, OR 97301, United States Phone: +1 503-585-7012
Things to Do in Oregon
13. Willamette National Forest, Oregon
The Willamette National Forest is a beautiful lush forest located in the central portion of the Cascade Range of Oregon.
Spreading for 1,7 million acres, this forest contains seven major mountain peaks, several volcanoes, rivers, and some of the best hot springs in the state.
The Willamette National Forest is ideal for nature lovers as they can visit spectacular viewpoints like Dee Wright Observatory, scenic waterfalls like salt Creek Falls, and many other adventurous hiking trails through woods.
And also, Willamette National Forest offers you access to the second-largest wilderness area in Oregon, Three Sisters Wilderness.
Aside from that, on the east of the Willamette National Forest is the recreational heaven, Deschutes National Forest, while the impressive Mount Hood National Forest is on the north.
That means if you visit the Willamette National Forest, you can easily discover several scenic forest areas too.
Address: Blue River, OR 97413, United States Phone: +1 541-225-6300
Things to Do in Oregon
14. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Brookings
Stretching for 12 miles along the North Pacific Ocean, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a linear state park in the southwestern region of Oregon.
It contains heavily dense forests, a rugged coastline with dramatic rock formations, plenty of hiking trails, and several small charming beaches, including Lone Ranch Beach.
So if you like hiking while experiencing the fresh sea breeze and scenic ocean views, visit Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.
Apart from hiking oceanfront trails, visitors can enjoy making sandcastles on the beach, sunbathing, splashing in the cool water, exploring sea arches, picnicking, and many more.
Come and grab all these experiences.
Address: U.S. 101, Brookings, OR 97415, United States Phone: +1 800-551-6949
Things to Do in Oregon
15. Smith Rock State Park, Terrebonne
Here’s one of the most famous international climbing destinations in the United States, Smith Rock State Park.
Located in central Oregon’s High Desert near Redmond and Terrebonne communities, Smith Rock State Park is heaven for hikers and rock climbers. Mainly, it features over 1,000 bolted sport routes along with its stunning river canyon environment.
Aside from that, Smith Rock State Park attracts outdoor enthusiasts for mountain biking, hiking, camping, and getting fantastic views of the Crooked River and canyon walls.
If you are looking for a calm and scenic place for camping, the Smith Rock State Park’s RV-exclusive campground is perfect. Try it.
Address: Terrebonne, OR 97760, United States Phone: +1 800-551-6949
Things to Do in Oregon
16. Silver Falls State Park, Sublimity
Silver Falls State Park is the largest and the most popular state park in Oregon.
Covering more than 9,000 acres, Silver Falls State Park features breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, lush and calm surroundings.
Undoubtedly the most highlighted attraction in Silver Falls State Park is its picturesque waterfalls. Since this park is the home to the famous Trail of Ten Falls, you can visit ten impressive waterfalls from the same trail. So, it is like heaven for waterfall lovers.
Further, the park has plenty of hiking trails for any skill level. There are over 24 miles of walking trails, a 4-mile bike path, and 14 miles of horse trails. And that’s why it attracts thousands of visitors annually.
On the other hand, Silver Falls State Park does justice for camp lovers by offering many campsites with primitive and modern camping facilities.
While camping, you can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, visiting the waterfalls, and making camping foods with your family.
Address: 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity, OR 97385, United States Phone: +1 800-551-6949
Here’s the complete list of amazing waterfalls in Oregon. Click here to add them all to your list.
Things to Do in Oregon
17. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Reedsport
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a sandy state park that stretches 40 miles from the north of the Coos River to the Siuslaw River in Florence, Oregon. (along the stunning Pacific Coast)
The park’s most highlighted feature is the huge wind-shaped sand dunes located between the coastline and pocket forests. Visitors explore these unique sand dunes by hiking, horseback riding, motorbiking, and driving off-highway vehicles.
And also, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area’s Sand Master Park and the Umpqua Dunes area are famous sandboarding destinations.
After exploring the sand dunes, visitors can have fun while fishing, canoeing, boating, and swimming too.
Aside from that, Oregon Dunes are close to scenic observation points like Cape Perpetua and the Heceta Head Lighthouse in Oregon too.
If you are looking for camping with family, just drive 20 minutes from Oregon Dunes to reach the excellent campground, Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park.
Address: 855 US-101, Reedsport, OR 97467, United States Phone: +1 541-271-6000
Things to Do in Oregon
18. Things to Do in Oregon: Oregon Coast Trail
Are you ready for a long-distance hike??
The Oregon Coast Trail is a scenic hiking trail that stretches for over 360 miles along the Pacific coast in Oregon. It starts from the mouth of the Columbia River in Fort Stevens State Park and ends at the California border south of Brookings.
If you take this challenge, you will be able to pass scenic locations such as Fort Stevens State Park, Haystack Rock, Oregon Sand Dunes, Cape Perpetua, the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, and many others.
Come on, try the Oregon Coast Trail with your hiking group.
Things to Do in Oregon
19. Sea Lion Caves, Florence
The Sea Lion Caves are one of the largest sea cave systems located open to the Pacific Ocean in Oregon.
And most importantly, the Sea Lion Caves is home to a huge number of sea lions. If you like to see countless sea lions resting on rocks, visit the Sea Lion Caves with your family.
Not only sea lions, but this incredible sea cave also contains other creatures such as penguins, California gulls, herrings, bald eagles, whales swimming in the distance, and many others.
During spring, if you visit the Sea Lion Caves, you can see the sea lions give birth to their pups. But, many people visit during winter to spot hundreds of sea lions resting on rocks.
Just plan your Sea Lion Caves tour now.
Address: 91560 US-101, Florence, OR 97439, United States Phone: +1 541-547-3111
Things to Do in Oregon
20. Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area, Lincoln City
Looking for an exciting coastal camping experience?
Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area is the only park that features a coastal campground in Oregon. Located on the banks of Devil’s Lake in Lincoln City, this park also has family-friendly picnic areas and a dock too.
If you visit Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area, it offers a cool breeze, glimmering water, lush surrounding, and breathtaking sceneries.
Also, you experience swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, water-skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, hiking, and camping.
Address: Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United States Phone: +1 800-551-6949
Things to Do in Oregon
21. Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead, Idleyld Park
Are you ready for a hot spring bath?
Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead is a scenic hiking trail located in Idleyld Park. And it guides you to reach magical hot springs in Oregon.
If you are looking for an inexpensive way to spend a relaxing time close to nature, try Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead. It features comfortable hot water springs to dip while enjoying beautiful forest views.
So, just forget your problems and visit Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead to have a relaxing day.
Address: NF-3401, Idleyld Park, OR 97447, United States Phone: +1 541-957-3200
Things to Do in Oregon
22. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Oregon
Located on Oregon’s northeast side, Hells Canyon considers the deepest canyon in the United States.
Therefore, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area attracts many adventurous travelers for rafting and backpacking trips. Aside from that, visitors can enjoy scenic nature photography, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
Especially, the scenic Snake River in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is more famous for whitewater rafting and boating.
Address: US-95, Riggins, OR 83549, United States Phone: +1 541-523-6391
Things to Do in Oregon
23. Pendleton Whisky Music Fest
Pendleton Whisky Music Fest is the most famous music festival in Oregon, and it takes place at Pendleton Roundup Grandstand.
It features world-famous artists like 50 Cent, Post Malone, Maroon 5, Blake Shelton, Pitbull, and Macklemore. So, if you are into music, do not miss live shows at Pendleton Whisky Music Fest on your Oregon Tour.
Address: 1205 SW Court Ave, Pendleton, OR 97801, United States
Things to Do in Oregon
24. Things to Do in Oregon: Enchanted Forest, Turner
The Enchanted Forest is one of the most popular family-friendly amusement parks.
Opened in 1971, Enchanted Forest features a wide array of attractions and rides for the whole family.
For example, you can enjoy Big Timber Log, Challenge of Mondor, a thrilling log ride that ends with a splash, Tiny Tune Train, carousel, a haunted house, a face painting station, bumper boats, Ferris wheel, and many more.
So, come along with your kids.
Address: 8462 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR 97392, United States Phone: +1 503-371-4242
Things to Do in Oregon
25. Things to Do in Oregon: Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard, Woodburn
The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard is a beautiful place to visit with your family.
It is filled with colorful tulips (every color of the rainbow), vineyards, occasional festivals, and many other fun programs. If you visit the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard, you can take many photos, buy freshly cut tulips, and take a hot air balloon tour to view scenic views of the surrounding.
Are you looking for an idea to surprise your soul mate? Book a hot air balloon tour at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard.
Address: 33814 S Meridian Rd, Woodburn, OR 97071, United States Phone: +1 503-634-2243
Things to Do in Oregon
26. Things to Do in Oregon: Painted Hills, Mitchell
Visiting Painted Hills is the best way to end your Oregon tour.
Painted Hills is located at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Mitchell, Oregon. Undoubtedly it is one of the most picturesque geological sites in the world.
Spaning for 3,132 acres, Painted Hills had formed around 35 million years ago. Therefore, it considers the one of Seven Wonders of the United States.
You can also spot fossils of various wildlife lived in that era.
Painted Hills’ colors change according to the light and moisture levels. Therefore, it shows different views every time you visit there.
Address: John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon 97750, United States Phone: (541) 987-2333
Things to Do in Oregon
- Cannon Beach
- Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
- Crater Lake National Park
- Mount Bachelor Ski Area, Bend
- Washington Park, Portland
- Oregon Film Museum, Astoria
- Mount Hood National Forest
- Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve, Cave Junction
- Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Bend
- Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, Eugene
- Oregon Coast Aquarium, Newport
- Visit Astoria
- Willamette Heritage Center, Salem
- Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Brookings
- Mount Hood National Forest, Sandy
- Smith Rock State Park, Terrebonne
- Silver Falls State Park, Sublimity
- Visit Newport
- Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Reedsport
- Oregon Coast Trail
- Sea Lion Caves, Florence
- Willamette National Forest
- Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area, Lincoln City
- Willamette Valley, Portland
- Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead, Idleyld Park
- Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
- Pendleton Whisky Music Fest
- Enchanted Forest, Turner
- Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm & Vineyard, Woodburn
- Painted Hills, Mitchell
Things to Do in Oregon
