4 Star Places To Visit in Oregon, United States (50)
4.5Portland Japanese Garden(6.279 reviews) - Serenity in the Heart of the City Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens
Considered the most authentic Japanese Garden outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of tranquil beauty in all four seasons. In Spring of 2017, the Garden opened its new Cultural Village, complete with new garden spaces, classrooms, exhibition and gallery space, and the Umami Cafe.See more..
The oldest official, continuously operated public rose test garden in the United States boasts more than 8,000 roses.See more..
4.5Multnomah Falls(3.356 reviews) - Easiest and most economical way to see Multnomah Falls. No Reservation Required! Sunday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Waterfalls
This 620-foot cascade is the fifth-largest waterfall in the U.S.See more..
4.5Oregon Coast Aquarium(3.034 reviews) - Wonderful Solo Activity Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Aquariums
The Oregon Coast Aquarium is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located in Newport, on the beautiful Oregon Coast. Our mission is to create unique and engaging experiences that connect you to the Oregon coast and inspire ocean conservation. The Aquarium is a living classroom for all learning styles and ages. As one of Oregon's top tourist attractions, the Aquarium is a vital educational resource for the state, with over 40,000 students visiting the Aquarium each year. The Aquarium strives to be a center of excellence for ocean literacy and plays an active role in conservation and animal rehabilitation efforts.See more..
4.5Astoria Column(2.684 reviews) - Wow! The Column Rises to Pacific Heights Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Nature & Wildlife Areas • Monuments & Statues
A 125-foot column which sits atop of Coxcomb Hill overlooking Astoria.See more..
4.5Oregon Zoo(2.604 reviews) - On the way to the coast. Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Zoos
See for yourself why we're #1! Community-supported since 1888, the Oregon Zoo is a world leader in animal welfare and conservation, connecting more than 1.5 million visitors with wildlife and nature every year.See more..
4.5Pittock Mansion(2.563 reviews) - Beautiful Mansion furnished with lovely antiques! Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
Built in 1914, Pittock Mansion was a modern home with unique architecture and the latest technology. Experience the story of Portland through the lives of one of its most influential families and get to know the pioneer spirit behind its transformation from “stumptown” to modern, industrial city.See more..
4.5Lan Su Chinese Garden(2.541 reviews) - Beautiful gardens Sunday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens
Lan Su Chinese Garden is much more than just a beautiful garden. It’s a creative wonder — an authentically built, powerfully inspiring experience based on a 2,000-year-old Chinese tradition that melds art, architecture, design and nature in perfect harmony. (Updated July 2020) In the light of COVID-19, masks are required during visit.See more..
4.5Cannon Beach(2.531 reviews) - Such a beautiful place!! Beaches
Marvel at the rugged beauty of Cannon Beach against the backdrop of Haystack Rock jutting out of the Pacific coast. Walk on the soft sand all the way to the mouth of Ecola Creek to spot Tillamook Lighthouse at a distance. While you’re at it, don’t miss the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum. You can camp overnight to discover all the attractions in the area; light a bonfire by the beach to stay warm. At low tide, walk out onto the sandbar to get closer to the sea stacks. Visit in June to catch the annual sandcastle contest. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5High Desert Museum(1.953 reviews) - A place for all ages Sunday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums
This one-of-a kind Museum reveals the nature of things in the West’s High Desert through artful exhibits, alluring animals, engaging programs and meaningful history. Otters, porcupines, owls, oh my! Encounter wildlife up close, explore the history and culture of this vast region and take in beautiful art. Get a close-up view of native wildlife, such as an otter, burrowing owl, porcupine and gray fox. Visit an authentic ranch and sawmill from 1904. In the summer, experience a close flying encounter with owls, falcons, hawks and even a vulture. Learn about Native American culture and history and delight your children with one of many fun, hands-on programs that bring history and science to life. With 135 acres and more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, it’s a “must see” for anyone traveling through the area. Go to highdesertmuseum.org/tickets for more details!See more..
From exploring tide pools teeming with life to witnessing Oregon's tallest lighthouse, there is something for every visitor at Yaquina Head. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area extends out from the Oregon coast, one mile into the Pacific Ocean. Standing 93 feet tall at the westernmost point of the basalt headland, the lighthouse has been a bright beacon of the night, guiding ships and their supplies along the west coast since the light was first lit on August 20, 1873. The offshore islands are a year-round refuge for harbor seals and a spring-summer home for thousands of nesting seabirds. Gray whales can be spotted during their annual migrations to Mexico (late fall-early winter) and Alaska (late winter-early spring). During the summer months some gray whales take the opportunity to feed in the shallow waters around the headland. Cobble Beach is compiled of millions of round basalt rocks that produce an applause-like sound as the waves roll in. When the tide is low a vibrant ocean floor is revealed—pools of colorful animals including orange sea stars, purple sea urchins, and giant green anemones. Rangers are at hand to answer questions and point out all of the amazing plants and animals that call the tide pools home. Visit the Interpretive Center and discover 140 years of lighthouse history and thousands of years of natural and cultural history. Friends of Yaquina Lighthouses, a non-profit organization, offers site-related books, maps, and postcards in their interpretive store. Whether you want to see raging winter storms batter the Oregon coast, learn about the role lighthouses played in the westward expansion of the United States, or watch peregrine falcons at play, visit Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and experience something wild.See more..
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a nationally-renowned science center providing science learning to a range of audiences. Our programming is guided by OMSI’s long-term vision to promote a healthy, innovative, and sustainable society where everyone is prepared to participate in civic life. OMSI’s science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programming helps visitors and program participants master 21st century skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration. We achieve this through exhibits, classes, camps, traveling educators, and adult programs around the state, making OMSI a trusted educational resource to all Oregonians.See more..
Considered the largest sea cave in the United States, this site is where Steller sea lions and their cubs take shelter each year. Sea Lion Caves is a privately owned wildlife preserve and bird sanctuary. The Caves has been in operation since 1932 preserving and protecting the wildlife under our care. We are open 363 days a year only closed on Christmas and Thanksgiving day. Our normal hours of operation are 9 am until dusk year round. We are not a zoo and the animals are free to come and go as they please. The sea lions can usually be found at either of four locations on the property; in the Cave, in the water, at the Lookout/rockery, and on other nearby rock ledges. HOWEVER, THE SEA LIONS ARE NOT ALWAYS IN THE CAVE OR MAY BE MIGRATING OUT OF AREA - THEY ARE WILD ANIMALS AND COME AND GO AS THE PLEASE. CALL AHEAD FOR INFORMATION. Self-guided are the rule, but guided tours are available.See more..
4.5Lithia Park(1.625 reviews) - A cool escape Parks
We have been coming to Ashland for the Shakespeare Festival for many years, and we always take a walk in the park at least once, sometimes going all the way through to the reservoir, or taking city streets and coming in to the park at the reservoir. It's also a quiet place to carry our take-out when we need some respite from crowds. In 1964 we camped in the park (there was a campground then) and walked through the park to attend the plays. Some times just sitting beside the creek is relief enough. Enjoy it!See more..
Founded by Angus Bowmer in 1935, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) has grown from a three-day festival of two plays to a nationally renowned theatre arts organization that presents an eight-month season of up to 11 plays that include works by Shakespeare as well as a mix of classics, contemporary plays, musicals and world-premieres.See more..
4.5Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum(1.565 reviews) - Spruce Goose Cockpit Tour Is the Best! Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums
Come soar through decades of aerospace innovation at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, located in McMinnville, Oregon. Discover more than 150 aircraft, spacecraft, and exhibits that tell the story of flight and space exploration with unique historic artifacts, including the Hughes Flying Boat Spruce Goose, SR-71 Blackbird, and the Titan II Space Launch Vehicle. We strive to make aviation and space innovation and history accessible to visitors of all ages, as a passion for innovation has no age restriction. With education as the cornerstone since our inception in 2001, our goal is to learn from the past while aiming for the future by immersing guests in STEAM topics. By telling these stories, we honor the legacy of aerospace pioneers and veterans by memorializing their commitment to scientific discovery. So, come aboard and experience the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. Together we spark a passion for innovation in our communities that ripples throughout the world.See more..
4.5Washington Park(1.556 reviews) - Why didn't we visit decades ago? This place is GREAT! Sunday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Zoos • Parks • Gardens
This popular park offers miles of trails, an extensive rose garden, a large Japanese garden and a zoo. For information on free shuttles, attraction admission hours and pricing within the park, and maps, visit our website.See more..
4.5Newport's Historic Bayfront(1.460 reviews) - Best Inexpensive Trip in Oregon! Spent < 1 hour Piers & Boardwalks
We stay at Embarcadero, which has saunas, hot tub, pool, crab pots, sinks and ice all included. We usually walk toward the stores and restaurants and stop by to listen to the sea lions. The food is always great and the service is even better. Whether we stop in at the Barge Inn, Rogue Brewery, or Local Ocean, the service is always the very best and the food just as equaling.See more..
An internationally renowned Catholic sanctuary set among 62 acres of botanical gardens, offering a place of peace and quiet reflection for all people. More than 100 beautiful statues,reflection ponds, and views offer inspiration to all who visit.See more..
4.5Heceta Head Lighthouse(1.265 reviews) - A must see when on the Oregon coast Lighthouses
4.5Yaquina Bay Lighthouse(1.233 reviews) - Tide pools during low tide are spectacular Lighthouses
Nineteenth-century lighthouse is one of a few on the Pacific coast that was built with the light-keeper's quarters in the same building.See more..
4.5Portland Art Museum(1.161 reviews) - Excellent. Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
One of the oldest art museums on the west coast with an impressive collection of Native American and Asian art, plus a large modern and contemporary wing. Rotating special exhibitions bring the best of the art world to Portland.See more..
4.5Pearl District(1.132 reviews) - Great window shopping, strolling and eateries! Neighborhoods
This district is the pearl of Portland, home to quirky boutiques and brands, cool restaurants, micro-breweries, and artisan coffee shops, housed in reclaimed warehouse spaces. Don't miss Powell’s City of Books, one of the largest independent bookstores in the world, and neat art galleries like Blue Sky and Augen Gallery. There's even a monthly art walk. The Jamison Square fountain is also a great spot to cool off in summer. Make a stop at Pearl District on a city tour of Portland, which often makes a stop here. If you love beer, you can explore the breweries on a bike tour. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Portland Saturday Market(1.111 reviews) - Check It Our! Sunday: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Flea & Street Markets
Operating since 1974 the Portland Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the nation. Located in Waterfront Park and Ankeny Plaza in Portland’s historic Old Town the Market is one of the most popular shopping destinations for local handcrafted goods. The Market offers a unique opportunity for customers to meet the artist as well as see one of a kind pieces created in the artist’s booth. Over 250 small businesses and individuals artists from across the NW region gather each week for the Saturday/Sunday event with live music and a plethora of exotic foods that will satisfy everyone’s appetite.See more..
4.5Fort Stevens State Park(1.108 reviews) - Outstanding Oregon State park Sunday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks
This is a really beautiful park and a great camping experience. It's big; something like 4,300 acres with literally hundreds of campsites, a lake with picnic areas, hiking trails and beach access. Very well managed and maintained. Very quiet at night. They rent bikes, even though the website indicates the bike rentals are closed. Be warned; the bikes are old beaters but they'll get you there and back.See more..
Very interesting geological wonder at the end of a short road through a cute little area with a winery and some restaurants/coffee houses (?) - all closed due to wildfire smoke unfortunately. The gaping formation is thought to be a result of some sea caves collapsing. I think you used to be able to walk around in it, but it’s all fenced off from what I can see. You might be able to access it from the beach somewhere but we weren’t able to thoroughly explore due to the smoke and fog. Also could be dangerous if the tide is coming in. I think we caught it at low tide. It’s a beautiful area, with rocks and caves and water swishing and swirling around deep in the “bowl”! It’s a quick visit but may take up more time when the little shops are open or if you can hike around the area! Definitely something to see! See more..
We were staying in Astoria for 3 nights and each day visited our friends in Ocean Park, WA so you either take the Wahkiakum County Ferry in Westport which is 30 minutes east of Astoria or you drive across the bridge. Personally I love the bridge as it is a 55 mph zone so basically just like a Highway. The bridge was built in 1966 and is the longest continuous truss bridge in North America. The views are spectacular and the passing ships are amazing. Highly recommend not only the bridge, but take some time to park near the bridge and watch the ships travel in and out of the Columbia River.See more..
When I landed in Portland, I followed the signs in the airport directing to the Max Lite Rail. Purchase a ticket via debit card at the ticket machine to ride the train to downtown. One single use ticket is $2.50 for 2.5 hrs which expires afterwards. Or 1 day ticket for $5 expires that same day at 3am (expiration date & time on back of card). Prior to boarding the rail, must tap the card on a Green Hop card reader stand, located outside, near the stop. Upon boarding, I sat near the legend to view the pit stops the Max Red line made every stop. Rail provided disposable face masks to grab yourself. Train was clean, air conditioned. The ride was convenient, efficient, and safe. From airport to downtown took least 40 minutes. Landed me at Pioneer Square, two blocks from my hotel. Must say it's the best affordable transportation to take advantage, especially being new to Portland!See more..
The Tram is a popular destination for tourists, locals and people just looking to try something fun. The lower tram terminal is at the intersection of South Moody Avenue & Gibbs Street --the most transportation-diverse intersection in the country. Besides one of the nation's only aerial commuter trams, you'll see cars, buses, a streetcar, a soaring pedestrian bridge, a cycle track and the densest bike parking in America's #1 biking city. Bike valet is offered free to the public at Portland Aerial Tram Monday through Friday. Exiting the upper terminal you'll see the largest enclosed sky bridge in North America. Take a right to access an outdoor patio with seating and views of the terminal, the cityscape, the Willamette River and, on a clear day, Mount Hood and Mount St Helens. The upper terminal links to the 4T Trail--a self-guided tour by train, trail, tram and trolley. Much of Marquam Hill is a natural area with several trails.See more..
4.5Nye Beach(904 reviews) - Still Very Special Beaches
Historic beach along the Oregon Coast that has been a favorite recreational area for more than 100 years.See more..
4.5Willamette Valley(897 reviews) - Great wines, good food Scenic Drives • Valleys
Best known for its diverse agriculture, this verdant valley is flanked by the Coast Range and the Cascades.See more..
4.5Fort Clatsop National Memorial(872 reviews) - Great Return Visit Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • National Parks
A replica of Lewis & Clark's original fort built during their expedition in 1805.See more..
Definitely worth the visit. There’s a nice paved trail to the light house from the parking lot. I’d say you’d need to be able-bodied to do this trail. It’s steep enough that a person in wheelchair or with a walker would have a difficult time. But there is a handicap accessible/usable platform at the parking lot to oversee the ocean vistas. There are overlook areas along the paved trail with beautiful views of the ocean and cliffs. The tiny lighthouse is fun to see in person.See more..
The Turnaround at Seaside is a Destination all in itself. I have seen every walks of life here from the Locals to the well know world travelers. All have visited this very spot to witness a part of the Oregon Coast that can only be seen from this location. You will find some of the most unique performers here that will amaze you with their talents. From this spot, You can walk to many other well known places in Seasides famous Downtown. The Turnaround at Seaside is one of those Iconic places you will always remember once you have seen it.See more..
4.5Wildlife Safari(751 reviews) - Wow! Pretty darn cool. Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
Wildlife Safari is a non-profit AZA accredited zoological park dedicated to conservation, education and research since its inception in 1972. Wildlife Safari is a fun-filled family destination where you can view over 500 animals in their natural habitat roaming freely much as they do in the wild! Visitors to the park drive through a 4.5 mile trek to see animals from Africa, Asia and the America’s. This unique setting offers many opportunities to get up close and personal with animals large and small. The free Safari Village is home to over 100 unique animals, a petting zoo, beautiful gardens, the Gift Shop, Safari Village Café and the White Rhino Event Center.See more..
4.5Forest Park(726 reviews) - A Gem in Portland. What makes Portland Great! Sunday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Parks • Hiking Trails
The largest urban park in the county, lined with trails for hiking and biking.See more..
4.5Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint(715 reviews) - great, quick, paved, safe day hike (only 2 hours) Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks • Hiking Trails
what a great hike, about 3 miles, but the first part out of the parking lot was not paved, but the trail met up with the paved roadway, and it was amazing, steep in parts, but the views were breathtaking, or was that my out of shape body telling me otherwise. this only took about 2 hours, including time at the top for the rest of us to catch out limited breaths. a must do..See more..
Absolutely stunning waterfall among the fall colors. Easy directions. The 2.5 mile graded dirt road was a bit rough the first mile but was much nicer the closer I got. The pay kiosk is just onto the start of the unpaved road and you need to pay for the pass there as there is no kiosk at the trailhead. ( cards only at kiosk) Parking is limited at the trailhead, and if you have to park on the road it’s a bit of a hike up. Easy walk to the lower viewpoint. The .25 mile hike to the upper viewpoint is steeply uphill, but the path is wide and smooth and easy to stop and catch your breath.See more..
A series of informative exhibits at the Hatfield Marine Science Center gives visitors a glimpse of hot topics in contemporary marine science research.See more..
What wonderful experience. We hopped on the restored hundred plus year old trolley at the beginning of the route and rode it round trip. A motorman drives, clang clanging and ringing the bell (shades of Judy Garland) while the conductor gives a wonderful history of the town, the waterfront, old buildings, and wharf. Fred told us the history of the trolley, originally from St. Louie, (more shades of Garland) and answered every question asked about Astoria and its history. The ride was VERY EXPENSIVE!! One dollar per person. Along the route, people would wave their dollar and the trolley would stop so they could board. Don't miss this treat.See more..
4.5Mt. Bachelor Ski Area(686 reviews) - Good old moody Bachelor Sunday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Ski & Snowboard Areas
Mt. Bachelor is the 6th largest ski resort in North America, with 4,323 acres of skiable terrain. This unique Pacific Northwest volcano is the only 360 skiable summit and home to Woodward Mountain Parks. With 101 ski trails and 13 chairlifts - Mt. Bachelor has skiing and snowboarding terrain for all ages and abilities. Mt. Bachelor's Nordic Center has 56 km of daily, groomed Nordic trails for skate and classic skiing, in addition to a network of snowshoe trails. Season pass, lift tickets, rentals, lessons, and more information are available at mtbachelor.comSee more..
The Oregon Garden features 80-acres of stunning botanical gardens, including 20 colorful specialty gardens, amazing blooms and beautiful water features. The Garden also boasts a Children's Garden, which is sure to keep the little ones entertained. The Garden also features a Visitor's Center, Cafe and Gift Shop, perfect for grabbing lunch or purchasing souvenirs. The Garden is the perfect setting for weddings and receptions, company events and family reunions.See more..
4.5Vista House(668 reviews) - Amazing views, a must see. Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Architectural Buildings
It's an odd structure, a stone octagon in "German art nouveau" style.See more..
4.5Harris Beach State Park(635 reviews) - Incredible beach with lots of tide pools! Sunday: State Parks
A year-round state park with spectacular monoliths.See more..
Spans the Columbia River and links Oregon and Washington.See more..
4.5Domaine Serene(625 reviews) - Make Reservation ahead for your wine tasting! Sunday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards
Join us at the winery for an unforgettable experience. Visit The Clubhouse at Domaine Serene seven days a week to enjoy exquisite Domaine Serene wines at the source, surrounded by the picturesque vineyards of our Winery Hill Estate. We offer tasting experiences by appointment for different occasions, from a casual experience to an intimate private tour of our state-of-the-art winery building.See more..
4.5Rim Drive(619 reviews) - 33 miles with LOTS of Lookout Points Scenic Drives
Scenic 33-mile drive which must be taken in a clockwise direction since areas of it are one-way.See more..
4.5Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve(594 reviews) - Great tour; definitely worth the effort to drive up to the cave Spent 2-3 hours National Parks • Caverns & Caves
ALERT: The Oregon Caves Chateau will be closed for rehabilitation throughout 2019 and 2020. Cave tours are still available late March through early November. The Oregon Caves is a place of adventure, wonder, and discovery. Join your guide and a small party of fellow cave explorers for a 90-minute tour. The route wends through narrow, twisting passages with ceilings as low as 45 inches! See strangely beautiful of stalactites, stalagmites, and other mysterious calcite flowstones. The route is moderately strenuous and not recommended for people with breathing, heart, knee or back issues. Children must be 42” tall or taller, no exceptions. The cave is 44 degrees year round. Tours are popular in the summer. Arrive early to avoid long waits or closures. Reservations are available at Recreation.gov. Cave tours offered late March to early November. There are a few wonderful trails to explore on the surface.See more..
4.5Flavel House Museum(586 reviews) - The craftsmanship is beautiful Sunday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
A historical Victorian home turned museum.See more..