Situated on the US north-western coast, Oregon is an interesting state to visit, brimming with amazing places and things to do. In this post, travel writers and Oregon experts share their favorite places to visit in Oregon.<\/p>\n
Oregon boasts some amazing geographical features, with natural parks, impressive waterfalls, dramatic coastlines, and postcard-like beaches; it\u2019s a piece of paradise for outdoor lovers.<\/p>\n
However, let\u2019s not underestimate the brilliant cultural scene of quaint cities such as Portland or Bend.<\/p>\n
There is so much to do and see for any kind of traveler, from solo explorers to families or couples\u2019 getaways.<\/p>\n
State of Oregon Facts<\/h2>\n\n- Oregon\u2019s Capital city<\/strong>: Salem<\/li>\n
- Oregon\u2019s Largest City<\/strong>: Portland (2.4 million people)<\/li>\n
- Oregon Total Population<\/strong>: 4.2 million people (2019 est.)<\/li>\n
- Oregon Extension<\/strong>: 254,800 km\u00b2 (98,379 sq mi)\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Nick Name<\/strong>: The Beaver State<\/li>\n
- Oregon Landmarks<\/strong>: Crater Lake<\/strong>: the deepest lake in the United States<\/li>\n
- Highest peak<\/strong>: \u00a0Mount Hood<\/strong>\u00a0(3,428.8 m or 11,249 ft), a potentially active stratovolcano in the Cascade Volcanic Arc.<\/li>\n
- Borders<\/strong>: Oregon\u2019s borders are defined by the Columbia River with\u00a0Washington\u00a0state in the north;\u00a0the Snake River with\u00a0Idaho\u00a0in the east, and the 42nd parallel north defines the borders with\u00a0California<\/strong><\/span><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Nevada\u00a0in the south.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The 15 best things to do in Oregon and places to visit<\/h2>\n1. Visit Portland<\/h3>\n
by Dan Bagby<\/em> @\u00a0Honeymoon Always <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n![\"Aerial](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Downtown-Portland-things-todo-in-oregon-860x656.jpg\")
<\/picture><\/figure>\nPortland<\/strong><\/span><\/a> is one of the best places to visit in Oregon for good reason. In the popular city you\u2019ll find a well-established food scene that continues to grow in notoriety and diversity, natural beauty, plenty of things to do, and the famous \u201cKeep Portland Weird\u201d<\/a> vibes<\/strong>.<\/p>\nThe city is easy to get to with the largest airport in the state and serves as a great place to visit<\/a> before or after exploring more of the Pacific Northwest.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nDuring your visit, enjoy the\u00a0greenery Portland<\/strong>\u00a0is known for by visiting the parks and gardens like\u00a0Washington Park,<\/strong>\u00a0which includes the Portland Japanese Gardens and International Rose Test Gardens, beside the quirky\u00a0Portland neighborhoods<\/a>\u00a0of Nob Hill and downtown.<\/span><\/p>\nJust out of the city is Multnomah Falls,<\/strong> which you can hike to the top of with a short hike. The Pittock Mansion<\/strong> is also worth visiting to learn of the history, see a beautiful home and get a fantastic view of the city.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nGet excited about the food in Portland! The city takes brunch<\/strong> seriously, and there are an overwhelming number of options. To get you started, I recommend\u00a0Tasty & Alder<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0Sanborn\u2019s<\/strong>\u00a0for the German Pancakes<\/span>. The food carts offer a fantastic variety of foods at low prices.<\/p>\nTo get a great variety of all the food and learn history along the way, there are tons of food tours that will give you a local\u2019s take on the city. You can also venture to the Willamette Valley<\/strong> to visit the vineyards<\/strong> not far from Portland.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n2. Silver Falls State Park<\/h3>\n
by Erika Bisbocci <\/em>@ Erika\u2019s Travels<\/p>\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Silver-Falls-State-Park-860x574.jpg\")
Photo Courtesy Erika<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nSilver Falls State Park<\/strong> <\/span><\/a>is known for its collection of beautiful waterfalls. The state park lies near the town of Silverton, amidst the Willamette Valley<\/strong>\u2019s rolling farms and vineyards.<\/p>\nIt is Oregon\u2019s largest state park and a popular day trip destination from Portland, Salem, and Eugene<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/p>\nSilver Falls is often regarded as the crown jewel of Oregon\u2019s state park system.<\/p>\n
A sprawling emerald wonderland, it contains an elaborate trail network that winds past dozens of waterfalls<\/a> and traverses moss-clad forest.<\/p>\nThe park\u2019s highlight is the 8.7-mile\u00a0Trail of Ten Falls<\/strong><\/a>. The loop trail is a waterfall chaser\u2019s dream.<\/p>\nOver the span of fewer than nine miles, the hike passes by no less than ten stunning cascades. South and North falls<\/strong> are the park\u2019s two main attractions.<\/p>\nThey lie at opposite ends of the loop, and both allow you to walk behind their silvery water curtains.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re looking for a shorter hike, there are tons of alternatives to the full trail. An abridged 5.1-mile loop omits North Falls<\/strong> and Twin Falls<\/strong>.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for something that is stroller-compatible and wheelchair-friendly, consider the 0.7-mile paved loop around South Falls<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/p>\nOther hikes in the park include the\u00a0Maple Ridge Loop<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0Buck Mountain Trail, in addition to the Trail of Ten Falls and its many variations<\/strong><\/span>.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n3. Multnomah Falls<\/h3>\n
by Debbie Fettback<\/em> @\u00a0World Adventurists<\/strong><\/p>\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Multnomah-falls-860x1216.jpg\")
<\/picture><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nWhen exploring the gorgeous outdoor paradise of Oregon,\u00a0visiting Multnomah Falls<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is a must. Cascading down 635 feet<\/strong>, over three major drops, it is the largest and one of the most iconic natural wonders of Oregon.<\/p>\nEasy to reach, it is a short five-minute walk<\/strong>, from the parking lot to the viewing platform at the base of the falls.<\/p>\nIf you want to see the falls from a different perspective, take the moderate 2.2-mile hike<\/strong> (700 feet elevation gain).<\/p>\nThe iconic Benson Bridge<\/strong> is part of what makes Multnomah Falls so memorable.<\/p>\nBuilt by Italian stonemasons in 1914, it was named after a businessman who owned the falls when the bridge was built. The bridge is located halfway up the falls.<\/p>\n
Being so popular and easily accessible, the falls can get extremely busy, especially during the summer months. Go early<\/strong>, or in the off-season to escape hordes of tourists. You can visit Multnomah Falls year-round.<\/p>\nThe falls do not dry up during the summer months since it is fed from rainwater, underground springs from Larch Mountain<\/strong> and snowmelt.<\/p>\nIf you want to see the falls at their maximum force, go during March<\/strong> when the snowmelt provides the extra power.<\/p>\nTo view the falls covered by snow and ice, visit between November<\/strong><\/a> and February<\/strong>.<\/p>\nMultnomah Falls is a short half-hour drive from Portland<\/strong>. Travel east on Interstate 84 and take exit #31, Multnomah Falls.<\/p>\n
\n4. Cannon Beach<\/h3>\n
by Katie Diederichs <\/em>@ Two Wandering Soles<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"Canon](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Canon-beach-portland.jpg\")
<\/picture>Photo by Katie Diederichs<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWith wide-open beaches and quaint fishing towns, taking a\u00a0road trip on the Oregon Coast<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is one of the most memorable things you can do in the state. If you don\u2019t have time to drive the entire coast, one of the best towns to visit in Oregon is Cannon Beach,<\/strong> also considered one of the best beach towns in the US by National Geographic<\/strong><\/span><\/a>,<\/p>\nThis picturesque oceanside town is packed with charm and things to do, giving you a good taste of what the Oregon Coast<\/a> is all about.<\/p>\nSituated 1.5 hours northwest of Portland, Cannon Beach<\/a> is a popular weekend getaway from Oregonians as well as out-of-state<\/strong> visitors, and it\u2019s easy to see why.\u00a0The town is made up of beautiful cedar-shingled houses<\/strong>, most of which seem to have million-dollar views of the Pacific Ocean.<\/p>\nWander the streets, and you\u2019ll find a mix of cute coffee shops, restaurants serving up fresh seafood, souvenir shops,<\/strong> and art galleries.<\/p>\nIf you\u2019re up for some light hiking, nearby Ecola State Park<\/strong> shouldn\u2019t be missed. With thickly forested trails and secluded beaches, you\u2019ll feel as if you\u2019ve jumped inside a postcard<\/strong>.<\/p>\nFrom just about anywhere in town, you can walk to the expansive beach that features the iconic Haystack Rock<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, made famous by the 80s classic\u00a0The Goonies<\/em>\u00a0and more recently, Instagram.<\/p>\nDuring low tide, you can explore the tide pools, which are filled with colorful sea anemones and starfish.<\/p>\n
Just be careful where you step! As dusk approaches, build a bonfire on the beach and watch as the sun sinks beneath the ocean<\/strong> for an evening you won\u2019t soon forget!<\/p>\n
\n5. Blue Pool <\/strong><\/h3>\nby Allison Boyle @ <\/em>She Dreams of Alpine<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/blue-pools-bend-860x573.jpg\")
<\/picture><\/figure>\nThe stunning sapphire water of the Tamolitch Falls Blue Pool <\/strong>is something you truly need to see for yourself to appreciate, making it a must-visit in Oregon<\/strong>.<\/p>\nLocated about an hour west of Bend<\/strong>, the unique turquoise Blue Pool was created over 1,600 years ago by a lava flow that partially buried the McKenzie River<\/strong>.<\/p>\nThe hike to the Blue Pool is very doable for most people at only 4.2 miles out & back (with just 300 feet of elevation gain). But the trail is very rocky<\/strong>, so even though you\u2019re heading to a lake, you should wear hiking shoes<\/strong> with good traction, not flip-flops.<\/p>\nAlso, be prepared to share the trail with lots of other people, since this is an extremely popular hike<\/strong>, especially in the summer.<\/p>\nIf you visit the Blue Pool in the spring<\/strong>, you might be lucky enough to see the waterfall of Tamolitch Falls running strong. Autumn<\/strong> is another great time to see the Blue Pool, with the fall colors <\/strong>contrasting against the beautiful blue water.<\/p>\nVisiting the Blue Pool is one of the very best things to do in Bend<\/strong><\/a>, and you should absolutely add it to your Oregon bucket list!<\/p>\n
\n6. Visit Bend, Oregon<\/h3>\n
Nick & Val<\/em> @ Wandering Wheatleys<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/bend-oregon-smith-rock-state-park-wandering-wheatleys-2-860x574.jpg\")
<\/picture>Photo \u00a9 Wandering Wheatleys<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nBend<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is a quaint little mountain town located in Central Oregon<\/strong>. It\u2019s about a 3-hour scenic drive from Portland<\/strong> or a 30-minute flight to the small airport in nearby Redmond. <\/p>\nBend attracts thousands of tourists every year \u2013 from all over Oregon<\/strong><\/a> and the rest of the country \u2013 who want to experience the amazing outdoor activities<\/strong> that the city is known for.<\/p>\nSkiing on Mt. Bachelor<\/strong>, rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park<\/strong>, floating down the Deschutes River<\/strong>, or attending an outdoor concert at the Les Schwab Amphitheater are just a few of Bend\u2019s highlights.\u00a0<\/p>\nIf you\u2019re looking for even more reasons to visit Bend, it\u2019s also known for its craft breweries<\/strong> and impressive foodie scene<\/strong>.<\/p>\nDeschutes Brewery<\/a><\/strong><\/span> is probably the most famous, but there are countless other breweries to visit during your visit.<\/p>\nCrux Fermentation Project<\/a><\/strong> has delicious beer and a large outdoor space with food trucks \u2013 the perfect spot to meet new friends in the warm summer months.<\/p>\nAnd if we still haven\u2019t sold you on why Bend is one of the best places to visit in Oregon<\/strong>, note that there are still countless other amazing activities yet to be mentioned.<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/bend-oregon-lava-tube-boyd-cave-wandering-wheatleys-2-860x574.jpg\")
<\/picture>Photo \u00a9 Wandering Wheatleys<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nBend has a darling downtown area with boutique shops<\/strong>, art galleries<\/strong>, and a monthly wine walk event<\/strong>. And there are hundreds of hiking and mountain biking trails right in your backyard. Plus Bend residents are known as being super friendly, outdoorsy, and welcoming.<\/p>\nIf you\u2019re traveling to Oregon<\/strong> and want to experience the gorgeous landscape that the state is famous for, you absolutely must book a few nights in Bend!\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n7. Florence<\/h3>\n
By Anjali Wadhwa<\/em> @ Cheerful Trails<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Heceta-Lighthouse-860x645.jpg\")
<\/picture><\/figure>\nFlorence<\/strong> is one of the prettiest small towns located on the Oregon<\/a> Coast.<\/p>\nIt offers various scenic sights which include the historic Siuslaw River Bridge<\/strong>, splendid sand dunes, dramatic beach shores, interesting hike trails, and wildlife exploration sights.<\/p>\n\u00a0Florence<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0is home to the largest Sea Lion Caves in the United States <\/strong>where you can see sea lions and other sea animals lounging on the rocky cliffs of the caves.<\/p>\nTo cater to your adventurous streak, rent a dune buggy or go sandboarding over the sand dunes at the Sand Master Park.<\/p>\n
To soak in some incredible views of the Oregon Coast, take a hike to the historic Heceta Head Lighthouse. You can also stay at the Lighthouse Keepers home which provides a bed and breakfast facility.<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/sea-lions-cave-860x645.jpg\")
Sea Lions Cave \u2013 photo courtesy Anjali Wadhwa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nIt\u2019s a unique experience to stay near the lighthouse and explore the many hiking trails, tidepools, and viewpoints.<\/p>\n
Take a stroll at the vibrant Old Town, the narrow lanes of which take you across many historical buildings and art galleries.<\/p>\n
From the riverside of the Old Town, you can see the iconic Siuslaw River Bridge which is a significant landmark of Florence.<\/p>\n
Florence can be conveniently reached from the Eugene airport through a one-hour scenic drive that boasts spectacular views of Oregon\u2019s coastline<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\n8. Hood River<\/h3>\n
The 15 best things to do in Oregon and places to visit<\/h2>\n1. Visit Portland<\/h3>\n
by Dan Bagby<\/em> @\u00a0Honeymoon Always <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Portland<\/strong><\/span><\/a> is one of the best places to visit in Oregon for good reason. In the popular city you\u2019ll find a well-established food scene that continues to grow in notoriety and diversity, natural beauty, plenty of things to do, and the famous \u201cKeep Portland Weird\u201d<\/a> vibes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The city is easy to get to with the largest airport in the state and serves as a great place to visit<\/a> before or after exploring more of the Pacific Northwest.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n During your visit, enjoy the\u00a0greenery Portland<\/strong>\u00a0is known for by visiting the parks and gardens like\u00a0Washington Park,<\/strong>\u00a0which includes the Portland Japanese Gardens and International Rose Test Gardens, beside the quirky\u00a0Portland neighborhoods<\/a>\u00a0of Nob Hill and downtown.<\/span><\/p>\n Just out of the city is Multnomah Falls,<\/strong> which you can hike to the top of with a short hike. The Pittock Mansion<\/strong> is also worth visiting to learn of the history, see a beautiful home and get a fantastic view of the city.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Get excited about the food in Portland! The city takes brunch<\/strong> seriously, and there are an overwhelming number of options. To get you started, I recommend\u00a0Tasty & Alder<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0Sanborn\u2019s<\/strong>\u00a0for the German Pancakes<\/span>. The food carts offer a fantastic variety of foods at low prices.<\/p>\n To get a great variety of all the food and learn history along the way, there are tons of food tours that will give you a local\u2019s take on the city. You can also venture to the Willamette Valley<\/strong> to visit the vineyards<\/strong> not far from Portland.\u00a0<\/p>\n by Erika Bisbocci <\/em>@ Erika\u2019s Travels<\/p>\n Silver Falls State Park<\/strong> <\/span><\/a>is known for its collection of beautiful waterfalls. The state park lies near the town of Silverton, amidst the Willamette Valley<\/strong>\u2019s rolling farms and vineyards.<\/p>\n It is Oregon\u2019s largest state park and a popular day trip destination from Portland, Salem, and Eugene<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/p>\n Silver Falls is often regarded as the crown jewel of Oregon\u2019s state park system.<\/p>\n A sprawling emerald wonderland, it contains an elaborate trail network that winds past dozens of waterfalls<\/a> and traverses moss-clad forest.<\/p>\n The park\u2019s highlight is the 8.7-mile\u00a0Trail of Ten Falls<\/strong><\/a>. The loop trail is a waterfall chaser\u2019s dream.<\/p>\n Over the span of fewer than nine miles, the hike passes by no less than ten stunning cascades. South and North falls<\/strong> are the park\u2019s two main attractions.<\/p>\n They lie at opposite ends of the loop, and both allow you to walk behind their silvery water curtains.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for a shorter hike, there are tons of alternatives to the full trail. An abridged 5.1-mile loop omits North Falls<\/strong> and Twin Falls<\/strong>.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for something that is stroller-compatible and wheelchair-friendly, consider the 0.7-mile paved loop around South Falls<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/p>\n Other hikes in the park include the\u00a0Maple Ridge Loop<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0Buck Mountain Trail, in addition to the Trail of Ten Falls and its many variations<\/strong><\/span>.\u00a0<\/p>\n by Debbie Fettback<\/em> @\u00a0World Adventurists<\/strong><\/p>\n When exploring the gorgeous outdoor paradise of Oregon,\u00a0visiting Multnomah Falls<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is a must. Cascading down 635 feet<\/strong>, over three major drops, it is the largest and one of the most iconic natural wonders of Oregon.<\/p>\n Easy to reach, it is a short five-minute walk<\/strong>, from the parking lot to the viewing platform at the base of the falls.<\/p>\n If you want to see the falls from a different perspective, take the moderate 2.2-mile hike<\/strong> (700 feet elevation gain).<\/p>\n The iconic Benson Bridge<\/strong> is part of what makes Multnomah Falls so memorable.<\/p>\n Built by Italian stonemasons in 1914, it was named after a businessman who owned the falls when the bridge was built. The bridge is located halfway up the falls.<\/p>\n Being so popular and easily accessible, the falls can get extremely busy, especially during the summer months. Go early<\/strong>, or in the off-season to escape hordes of tourists. You can visit Multnomah Falls year-round.<\/p>\n The falls do not dry up during the summer months since it is fed from rainwater, underground springs from Larch Mountain<\/strong> and snowmelt.<\/p>\n If you want to see the falls at their maximum force, go during March<\/strong> when the snowmelt provides the extra power.<\/p>\n To view the falls covered by snow and ice, visit between November<\/strong><\/a> and February<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Multnomah Falls is a short half-hour drive from Portland<\/strong>. Travel east on Interstate 84 and take exit #31, Multnomah Falls.<\/p>\n by Katie Diederichs <\/em>@ Two Wandering Soles<\/strong><\/p>\n With wide-open beaches and quaint fishing towns, taking a\u00a0road trip on the Oregon Coast<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is one of the most memorable things you can do in the state. If you don\u2019t have time to drive the entire coast, one of the best towns to visit in Oregon is Cannon Beach,<\/strong> also considered one of the best beach towns in the US by National Geographic<\/strong><\/span><\/a>,<\/p>\n This picturesque oceanside town is packed with charm and things to do, giving you a good taste of what the Oregon Coast<\/a> is all about.<\/p>\n Situated 1.5 hours northwest of Portland, Cannon Beach<\/a> is a popular weekend getaway from Oregonians as well as out-of-state<\/strong> visitors, and it\u2019s easy to see why.\u00a0The town is made up of beautiful cedar-shingled houses<\/strong>, most of which seem to have million-dollar views of the Pacific Ocean.<\/p>\n Wander the streets, and you\u2019ll find a mix of cute coffee shops, restaurants serving up fresh seafood, souvenir shops,<\/strong> and art galleries.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re up for some light hiking, nearby Ecola State Park<\/strong> shouldn\u2019t be missed. With thickly forested trails and secluded beaches, you\u2019ll feel as if you\u2019ve jumped inside a postcard<\/strong>.<\/p>\n From just about anywhere in town, you can walk to the expansive beach that features the iconic Haystack Rock<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, made famous by the 80s classic\u00a0The Goonies<\/em>\u00a0and more recently, Instagram.<\/p>\n During low tide, you can explore the tide pools, which are filled with colorful sea anemones and starfish.<\/p>\n Just be careful where you step! As dusk approaches, build a bonfire on the beach and watch as the sun sinks beneath the ocean<\/strong> for an evening you won\u2019t soon forget!<\/p>\n by Allison Boyle @ <\/em>She Dreams of Alpine<\/strong><\/p>\n The stunning sapphire water of the Tamolitch Falls Blue Pool <\/strong>is something you truly need to see for yourself to appreciate, making it a must-visit in Oregon<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Located about an hour west of Bend<\/strong>, the unique turquoise Blue Pool was created over 1,600 years ago by a lava flow that partially buried the McKenzie River<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The hike to the Blue Pool is very doable for most people at only 4.2 miles out & back (with just 300 feet of elevation gain). But the trail is very rocky<\/strong>, so even though you\u2019re heading to a lake, you should wear hiking shoes<\/strong> with good traction, not flip-flops.<\/p>\n Also, be prepared to share the trail with lots of other people, since this is an extremely popular hike<\/strong>, especially in the summer.<\/p>\n If you visit the Blue Pool in the spring<\/strong>, you might be lucky enough to see the waterfall of Tamolitch Falls running strong. Autumn<\/strong> is another great time to see the Blue Pool, with the fall colors <\/strong>contrasting against the beautiful blue water.<\/p>\n Visiting the Blue Pool is one of the very best things to do in Bend<\/strong><\/a>, and you should absolutely add it to your Oregon bucket list!<\/p>\n Nick & Val<\/em> @ Wandering Wheatleys<\/strong><\/p>\n Bend<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is a quaint little mountain town located in Central Oregon<\/strong>. It\u2019s about a 3-hour scenic drive from Portland<\/strong> or a 30-minute flight to the small airport in nearby Redmond. <\/p>\n Bend attracts thousands of tourists every year \u2013 from all over Oregon<\/strong><\/a> and the rest of the country \u2013 who want to experience the amazing outdoor activities<\/strong> that the city is known for.<\/p>\n Skiing on Mt. Bachelor<\/strong>, rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park<\/strong>, floating down the Deschutes River<\/strong>, or attending an outdoor concert at the Les Schwab Amphitheater are just a few of Bend\u2019s highlights.\u00a0<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for even more reasons to visit Bend, it\u2019s also known for its craft breweries<\/strong> and impressive foodie scene<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Deschutes Brewery<\/a><\/strong><\/span> is probably the most famous, but there are countless other breweries to visit during your visit.<\/p>\n Crux Fermentation Project<\/a><\/strong> has delicious beer and a large outdoor space with food trucks \u2013 the perfect spot to meet new friends in the warm summer months.<\/p>\n And if we still haven\u2019t sold you on why Bend is one of the best places to visit in Oregon<\/strong>, note that there are still countless other amazing activities yet to be mentioned.<\/p>\n Bend has a darling downtown area with boutique shops<\/strong>, art galleries<\/strong>, and a monthly wine walk event<\/strong>. And there are hundreds of hiking and mountain biking trails right in your backyard. Plus Bend residents are known as being super friendly, outdoorsy, and welcoming.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re traveling to Oregon<\/strong> and want to experience the gorgeous landscape that the state is famous for, you absolutely must book a few nights in Bend!\u00a0<\/p>\n By Anjali Wadhwa<\/em> @ Cheerful Trails<\/strong><\/p>\n Florence<\/strong> is one of the prettiest small towns located on the Oregon<\/a> Coast.<\/p>\n It offers various scenic sights which include the historic Siuslaw River Bridge<\/strong>, splendid sand dunes, dramatic beach shores, interesting hike trails, and wildlife exploration sights.<\/p>\n \u00a0Florence<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0is home to the largest Sea Lion Caves in the United States <\/strong>where you can see sea lions and other sea animals lounging on the rocky cliffs of the caves.<\/p>\n To cater to your adventurous streak, rent a dune buggy or go sandboarding over the sand dunes at the Sand Master Park.<\/p>\n To soak in some incredible views of the Oregon Coast, take a hike to the historic Heceta Head Lighthouse. You can also stay at the Lighthouse Keepers home which provides a bed and breakfast facility.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a unique experience to stay near the lighthouse and explore the many hiking trails, tidepools, and viewpoints.<\/p>\n Take a stroll at the vibrant Old Town, the narrow lanes of which take you across many historical buildings and art galleries.<\/p>\n From the riverside of the Old Town, you can see the iconic Siuslaw River Bridge which is a significant landmark of Florence.<\/p>\n Florence can be conveniently reached from the Eugene airport through a one-hour scenic drive that boasts spectacular views of Oregon\u2019s coastline<\/a>.<\/p>\n![\"Aerial](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Downtown-Portland-things-todo-in-oregon-860x656.jpg.webp)
<\/picture><\/figure>\n
\n2. Silver Falls State Park<\/h3>\n
\n3. Multnomah Falls<\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Multnomah-falls-860x1216.jpg.webp)
<\/picture><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n
\n4. Cannon Beach<\/h3>\n
![\"Canon](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Canon-beach-portland.jpg.webp)
<\/picture>
\n5. Blue Pool <\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/blue-pools-bend-860x573.jpg.webp)
<\/picture><\/figure>\n
\n6. Visit Bend, Oregon<\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/bend-oregon-smith-rock-state-park-wandering-wheatleys-2-860x574.jpg.webp)
<\/picture>![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/bend-oregon-lava-tube-boyd-cave-wandering-wheatleys-2-860x574.jpg.webp)
<\/picture>
\n7. Florence<\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Heceta-Lighthouse-860x645.jpg.webp)
<\/picture><\/figure>\n
\n8. Hood River<\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/bunny-wp-pullzone-aoqpl4b4bk.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Hood-River-860x573.jpg.webp)
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