The 15 Best Places To Visit In Oregon

A scenic view of Mount Hood towering in the distance, its snowy peak contrasting with the colorful autumn foliage of the surrounding landscape, highlighting it as one of the stunning places to visit in Oregon.

Discover the best places to visit in Oregon, the tenth largest state in the United States.

This epitome of beauty is home to breathtaking waterfalls, verdant mountains, cascading rivers, pristine beaches and arid deserts.

Indeed, a treat for nature lovers.

So, here are the 15 best places to explore in Oregon.

15. Strawberry Lake

In the picturesque landscape of Malheur National Forest lies Strawberry Lake, nestled in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness.

Ideal for those who love the outdoors, this lake offers trout fishing, hiking, and camping.

It’s a trifecta of outdoor adventure waiting for you!

A tranquil view of Strawberry Lake, set against a backdrop of towering mountains and lush evergreen forests, showcasing one of the serene places to visit in Oregon.

14. Wallowa Lake

Wallowa Lake, also known as “The Little Switzerland of America” is an irresistible natural beauty in Northeastern Oregon.

Its serene waters and surrounding natural beauty are a magnet for those seeking peace and outdoor activities like swimming and boating.

A vibrant autumn view of Wallowa Lake with clear blue waters, surrounded by golden and evergreen trees against a backdrop of the majestic Wallowa Mountains.

13. Columbia River Gorge

This is a must on your Oregon’s bucket list and one of the best places to visit in Oregon for sure!

The Columbia River Gorge is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re into hiking, water sports, or just capturing the perfect photo, the gorge is a destination that truly has it all.

A serene sunset view over the Columbia River Gorge with soft orange hues in the sky, highlighting the natural grandeur of this scenic destination.

12. Crater Lake

Nestled in southern Oregon, this is the 5th oldest national park in America.

Its hallmark is this beautiful crystalline blue lake: Crater Lake.

Apart from its jaw dropping beauty, it is the USA’s deepest lake at 1,943 feet.

Marvel at the lake’s deep blue waters and explore the park’s various activities, from boating to hiking.

A breathtaking view of Crater Lake's deep blue waters with Wizard Island in the foreground, surrounded by steep cliffs under a clear blue sky, showcasing one of the most majestic places to visit in Oregon.

11. Bend

Located about three hours southeast of Portland, Bend is the perfect adventure for avid travelers.

Surrounded by dry plains, volcanoes and forests, the place presents a plethora of opportunities for shopping, exploring restaurants, snowboarding, skiing and hiking.

And don’t forget to visit another wonder of Oregon: Smith Rock State Park.

A picturesque view of the Deschutes River flowing through Bend, Oregon, flanked by vibrant autumnal trees and a clear blue sky.

10. The Painted Hills

If you want to give an aesthetic sense to your trip, do visit this fascinating geologic site.

The hills get their name from the delicately colored stratifications in the soil. These yellow, gold, black and red colors are embodiments of ancient and recent history of Oregon.

There are several well-maintained trails in the area but you can also see the hills from your car.

The Painted Hills, with their striking layers of yellow, gold, black, and red soil, under a vast sky.

9. Alvord Desert

Experience the vastness of the Alvord Desert, a striking expanse in Southeastern Oregon where the horizon stretches endlessly.

Camp under the stars in this 12×7-mile playa, soak in nearby hot springs, and enjoy the simplicity of desert life.

It’s a unique getaway where the skies are vast, and the landscapes are mesmerizing.

A solitary tree with sparse yellow foliage stands resilient on the cracked earth of Alvord Desert, with a backdrop of distant mountains under a vast blue sky, epitomizing the harsh yet beautiful desert landscape.

8. Cannon Beach

A small coastal city in Northwest Oregon known for its exquisite shoreline featuring sand dunes and tide pools.

Whether you’re biking, jogging, or simply soaking up the scenery, this beach is a family favorite.

And don’t miss Haystack Rock, an iconic sea stack that’s a sanctuary for vibrant sea life and birds.

This spot in our list of the best places to visit in Oregon is truly deserved.

Cannon Beach is also one of the best beaches in the US!

An expansive view of Cannon Beach, Oregon, with its signature Haystack Rock and surrounding sea stacks, as waves break on the sandy shore with lush green hills in the background, illustrating the natural beauty that makes it a popular place to visit in Oregon.

7. Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art — Eugene

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art in Eugene offers a deep dive into artistic brilliance.

Located at the University of Oregon, this museum showcases a diverse array of works from Europe and America.

Immerse yourself in its innovative exhibitions and be inspired by the creative spirit.

The facade of the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art in Eugene, showcasing the distinctive architectural pattern and design of the building's exterior, with a lush green tree to the side and a clear blue sky above.

6. Tulip field in Woodburn

This enchanting farm is more than just a feast for the eyes; it’s a place where joy and peace meet amidst rows of vibrant tulips.

Attend the annual festival, capture the beauty in every bloom, and find a moment of tranquility in this picturesque setting.

A vibrant tulip field in Woodburn with a colorful array of blooming tulips, featuring a classic pink tractor in the foreground and the majestic Mount Hood in the distant background, under a clear sky.

5. Portland

With an arts scene that pulsates with creativity, from cutting-edge theaters to eclectic music venues, Oregon’s largest city is a cultural hub.

Stroll through the serene Japanese Garden, visit the engaging Oregon Zoo, or relax in the lush Washington Park.

This city is a playground of urban delights, offering countless spots to unwind, dine, and discover.

Evening view of Portland, Oregon, with the city lights starting to twinkle against the twilight sky, and the snow-capped Mount Hood rising majestically in the background.

4. Mount Hood

As one of the premier places to visit in Oregon, Mount Hood stands tall as the state’s highest peak, beckoning outdoor enthusiasts to its paradise-like surroundings.

Whether you’re carving down its snowy slopes, snowshoeing through winter wonderlands, or camping under starlit skies, Mount Hood promises exhilarating adventures and soul-soothing vistas.

Nature lovers, it’s time to gear up and embrace the majestic beauty of this iconic mountain.

Tranquil sunset at Mount Hood reflected in a forest-lined lake, with pastel skies and the serene water highlighting the mountain's majestic presence.

3. Astoria

Located in Northwest Oregon, right across the Columbia River from Washington state is the little port city of Astoria.

The city is full of museums, parks, restaurants and camping sites. If you are in for some ‘me time’, then Astoria is a place to be.

Don’t forget to visit the nearby Fort Stevens State Park where the famous Peter Iredale shipwreck remains still sitting on the beach.

Overlooking Astoria, Oregon, this image captures the charming coastal town with its dense clusters of homes and buildings, set against the backdrop of the expansive Astoria-Megler Bridge stretching across the Columbia River, with rolling hills and the vast water body framing the scenic landscape.

2. Hood River

This quaint little town will quench your thirst for adventure.

Renowned for its ideal conditions for kiteboarding and windsurfing, this destination is a magnet for thrill-seekers.

Yet, even if adrenaline sports aren’t your calling, Hood River’s charming brunch spots, vibrant breweries, and unique boutiques provide a delightful retreat for every visitor.

An aerial view of Hood River, Oregon, showing the town's unique location along the winding river with a bridge crossing over, surrounded by lush forested hills and a backdrop of misty mountains under a soft cloudy sky.

1. Silver Falls State Park

Concluding our list of top places to visit in Oregon is the Beaver State’s grandest and most picturesque state park.

With a land area of over 9,000 acres, the park is home to wonderful waterfalls, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and camping.

The striking size of the park and iconic views attract thousands of tourists every year.

You need to definitely visit this breathtaking place.

A peaceful trail leads to a cascading waterfall at Silver Falls State Park, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant plant life, epitomizing the natural splendor found at this cherished destination among the places to visit in Oregon.

If you wanna see more of the West Coasts most beautiful spots, check out our list featuring the best places on the US West Coast!

Also, if you enjoyed reading this list, you’ll LOVE watching it in video format:

Related articles

Most Viewed
View of Mount Shasta covered in snow, seen from the Interstate 5 in California, highlighting one of the best stops along I-5 California amidst verdant forests under a clear blue sky.
The 14 Best Stops Along I-5 California
Sunset at Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park, showcasing the serene waters, driftwood-strewn sands, and lush greenery, one of the best places to visit on the US West Coast.
The 25 Best Places To Visit On The US West Coast
Scenic view of Yosemite Valley with towering granite cliffs and Bridalveil Falls cascading down, surrounded by lush forests, under a partly cloudy sky in Yosemite, one of the California National Parks and one of the best things to do in Northern California
The Complete Guide to California's National Parks
Visit Our Shop
Shop
Explore
California
Florida
Hawaii