Top 34 Must-See Attractions in Oregon for 2025

Welcome to the beautiful state of Oregon. Located in the Pacific Northwest, sandwiched between California and Washington, Oregon just might be one of the most underrated destinations in the United States. There are so many things to do in Oregon, from incredible hiking trails to picturesque beaches, hip urban centers, high mountains, and stunning waterfalls. Oregon truly has it all! So let’s dive into some of the top places to visit in Oregon.

The Best Things to Do in Oregon

People often skip over Oregon when traveling from Seattle, Washington to vacation in California, but it should not be missed! To help you plan your visit to Oregon and place it higher on your travel radar, let’s explore all the top attractions in the state. Where will you go next on a road trip? I bet Oregon will rise to the top of your bucket list after this!

1. Smith Rock State Park

For some of the best hiking in Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is a must-visit. Travel Oregon made it a part of the 7 Wonders of Oregon for good reason. This beautiful State Park is a mecca for rock climbers with more than 1,000 bolted routes! The stunning cathedral rock spires provide picture-perfect scenery, beautifully reflected in the winding river below.

Things to do in Smith Rock State Park

Beyond rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Hikers can enjoy beautiful trails, making it one of the most popular state parks in Oregon.

• The Misery Ridge Trail, although challenging, offers stunning views of the park’s rock formations.
• The River Trail follows the Crooked River, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for golden eagles, mule deer, and river otters during your hike.

Smith Rock State Park is also a great place for mountain biking, featuring 30 miles of trails suitable for all levels. Rent a bike to hit the trails or unwind with some car camping. Campsites are available for RV camping, tent camping, and there are even yurts and cabins for rent in the park.

Where to Stay Near Smith Rock

For accommodations closer to Smith Rock, consider the Smith Rock Resort or Crooked River Ranch Cabins.

Stay in Sisters, where our experience at Five Pine Lodge provided unique lodging. This central Oregon town serves as a convenient base for outdoor activities, as well as annual events like the Sisters Rodeo and the Sisters Folk Fest.

2. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Another one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon is the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, which is a key attraction for visitors to the state. It is the largest National Scenic Area in the United States, covering an impressive 80 miles in length and 4,000 feet in depth along the Columbia River.

The gorge features numerous waterfalls, including Wahclella Falls, Horsetail Falls, Latourell Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can track these beautiful cascades among the 80 miles of trails throughout the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Some of the more popular trails are Eagle Creek Trail, Dog Mountain Trail, and the Gorge Trail #400.

This area is one of the most popular day trips from Portland. The Half-Day Waterfalls Tour offers a 3.5-hour guide to attractions like the Portland Women’s Forum, the Crown Point Vista House, Latourell Falls, Multnomah Falls, and Horse Tail Falls.

3. Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is the highest waterfall in Oregon and the second tallest year-round waterfall in the United States. This aerial beauty is a highlight within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The waterfall features two tiers, with the upper falls reaching 542 feet and the lower falls at 69 feet, all surrounded by lush greenery—making it one of the best photography spots in Oregon.

Visitors can reach the falls via car, bus, or train. There is a parking lot at the site, which can become crowded during peak season. A shuttle service is also available during this time. The Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop trail is a popular option that leads guests past several other waterfalls in the region.

Rock climbing opportunities are abundant in the area, and the Columbia River Gorge is a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding due to the strong winds. The Hood River area is particularly popular among enthusiasts of these sports.

4. Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway

Road-tripping through Oregon is an unforgettable experience, especially along the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway. This picturesque drive spans approximately 75 miles, taking visitors past numerous scenic viewpoints and waterfalls. The highway features various overlooks, including Crown Point and the Vista House, making it a perfect route to soak in the breathtaking views.

Constructed between 1913 and 1922, the historic Columbia River Highway is recognized for its remarkable engineering and design, earning a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

It is an incredible way to experience the highlights of the Columbia River Gorge, including Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horsetail Falls. Be sure to stop at the various viewpoints, picnic areas, and trails along the way for an even more immersive experience.

One unique way to explore the gorge is to venture onto the water. The Jet Boat Tour takes you along the Willamette River and the Columbia River at an exhilarating 45 miles per hour, providing stunning views of attractions like Cape Horn, Beacon Rock, Mount Hood, and more.

Where to Stay at Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Numerous lodging options are available in the Columbia River Gorge area on both the Washington State and Oregon sides. For accommodations on the Oregon side, consider:

• Cascade River Watch – A highly-rated vacation rental known for its prime location.
• Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn – Offers an ideal location with great amenities, including an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

5. Visit Bend

Bend is a vibrant community in Oregon filled with activities and attractions that make it a standout destination. Be sure to visit one of the many microbreweries, enjoy a cold drink, or float along the Deschutes River while tubing.

With abundant shopping and dining options, Bend serves as an excellent base for exploring all the enjoyable experiences in Central Oregon. Outdoor enthusiasts can find hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as the impressive Tumalo Falls.

6. Newberry National Volcanic Monument

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument, located in Central Oregon, is a fascinating site covering 54,000 acres within the Deschutes National Forest. Filled with lava flows and cinder cones from past volcanic activity, you can even explore inside Lava Cones to discover how they formed thousands of years ago.

The Lava Lands Visitor Center offers a variety of exhibits and educational displays highlighting the region’s geology, ecology, and history.

A main attraction at the Lava Lands Visitor Center is Lava Butte, a cinder cone volcano that rises over 500 feet above the surrounding area. Visitors can hike to the butte’s summit for panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains. Additionally, the center provides ranger-led programs, guided hikes, and educational activities suitable for people of all ages.

7. Soak in Some Natural Hot Springs

Oregon’s volcanic activity has blessed the region with several hot springs for visitors to enjoy. Some popular locations include Paulina Lake Hot Springs, East Lake Hot Springs, and Summer Lake Springs. Breitenbush is the largest thermal spring area in the Oregon Cascades.

The Umpqua Hot Springs, located in the Umpqua National Forest, features three descending pools set against the North Umpqua River and surrounded by beautiful pine trees, making it a fantastic spot for relaxation.

8. High Desert Museum

Incorporating the theme of outdoor adventure, the High Desert Museum of Bend spans an impressive 135 acres of forest land, dedicated to the natural and cultural history of the high desert region. The museum includes numerous nature trails and outdoor exhibits, sharing stories of the area’s unique wildlife and inhabitants. It regularly features permanent and changing exhibits, workshops, animal shows, and lectures.

Where to Stay in Bend

• Oxford Hotel – A charming property we adored located in downtown Bend.
• Tetherow Hotel – This award-winning hotel is situated on a golf course, 10 minutes from downtown and conveniently close to Mt. Bachelor.

9. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

From Bend, embark on a journey along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, starting in the heart of the city. A few bike ride segments were particularly memorable! The byway spans approximately 66 miles through the Deschutes National Forest and the Cascade Mountains.

Along the way, visitors can stop at several scenic viewpoints, including Mount Bachelor, the Three Sisters Mountains, and the beautiful Sparks Lake. The byway also features numerous recreational areas near lakes like Elk Lake, Cultus Lake, and Devils Lake, along with excellent hiking trails such as the Green Lakes Trail and the challenging South Sister Trail.

The best time to explore the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is during summer and early fall when the weather is mild, and the roads remain clear. In winter, some sections may close due to snow, making it a popular destination for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling enthusiasts.

10. Mount Hood National Forest

Speaking of winter, Mount Hood National Forest features the highest peak in Oregon at 11,239 feet. We visited the area in late summer and encountered some snow while traveling the Mount Hood Scenic Byway, a 105-mile route that showcases Mount Hood’s majesty, offering exceptional skiing opportunities in the winter and hiking trails in summer.

Covering over one million acres, Mount Hood National Forest is home to more than 1,200 miles of hiking and biking trails in summer and winter sports at Timberline Lodge and Ski Area, Mount Hood Meadows, and Ski Bowl.

11. Cove Palisades State Park

Cove Palisades State Park, a public recreation area in Central Oregon, covers over 6,000 acres and is located on the eastern side of Lake Billy Chinook. This park offers several campgrounds, hiking trails, picnic areas, and boat ramps, enabling visitors to enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and various water sports.

The park’s standout feature is the Tam-a-lau Trail, a popular hiking trail leading to the summit of a cliff with remarkable views of the lake. Also noteworthy is the Crooked River Canyon, carved by the river and surrounded by towering cliffs featuring unique rock formations like Chimney Rock and the Island.

12. Crater Lake National Park

Did you know that Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America? Formed from a volcanic eruption over 7,700 years ago, this stunning lake is an impressive 1,943 feet deep. With no inlets, its waters remain both pristine and clear, unlike anything you have ever seen. Visitors can take guided boat tours of the lake or explore its many trails.

Crater Lake is an iconic natural landmark in Oregon, offering many activities beyond just dipping your toes into the deepest lake in the USA. With 90 miles of trails for hiking and opportunities for snowshoeing in the winter, the park also features remarkable geological formations such as Wizard Island—an iconic cinder cone that rises from the lake—and the rock formation Phantom Ship, resembling a ghostly ship gliding on the water.

13. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Oregon’s diverse landscape includes lush forests and expansive high desert plains. The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument transports visitors to an ecosystem reminiscent of the Badlands. The area is known for its layered fossils and colorful cliffs, making it one of the most popular attractions in Oregon.

The Painted Hills, with their vibrant colors, create a striking and unforgettable scene. The Painted Hills Overlook Trail showcases its beauty, while the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway provides a scenic drive through the area.

This national monument encompasses over 14,000 acres and contains one of the world’s most diverse and well-preserved fossil records, featuring fossils dating back more than 50 million years. Each unit in the monument has a visitor center with exhibits highlighting the fossil history of the region, including fossils of plants, mammals, and insects.

14. Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast spans an impressive 300 miles, making it a part of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Cannon Beach is an ideal base for exploring the stunning coastline. Known for its appearances in movies like The Goonies and Point Break, this picturesque beach is undeniably one of the top attractions in Oregon.

Another must-see is the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, home to the most temperate coastal sand dunes in the world, stretching for 40 miles and perfect for sandboarding.

15. Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is the most iconic beach in Oregon, featuring the remarkable Haystack Rock that rises 235 feet from the shoreline, creating a breathtaking view.

National Geographic declared Cannon Beach one of the most beautiful places in the world, as it prominently features the captivating Haystack Rock. The area also provides various activities off the beach, including hiking, craft brewery tours, and abundant opportunities for birdwatching, including puffins!

Consider joining the Oregon Coast Day Tour, which takes you on a full-day journey to witness the white sand beaches of Oregon, including Cannon Beach, Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, Ecola State Park, and Neahkahnie Point that showcase the dramatic coastline.

16. Thor’s Well

For photographers, one of the best destinations in Oregon is the magnificent Thor’s Well. Located just outside of Yachats in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area along Highway 101, this impressive sinkhole creates a stunning spectacle.

Accessing the well requires some hiking, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear as conditions on the Oregon Coast can change unexpectedly. Remember to maintain a safe distance as the waves can be powerful at times.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

A popular destination for families is the Oregon Coast Aquarium, located on the picturesque Oregon coast with views of Yaquina Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking scenery while learning about the diverse marine life inhabiting the region.

We have mixed feelings about aquariums, yet we acknowledge their conservation efforts that work to protect our oceans. Inside the Oregon Coast Aquarium, animals are housed in environments resembling their natural habitats, receiving the necessary diets for their well-being.

Furthermore, the aquarium participates in several conservation initiatives, including sea otter rehabilitation and the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network, which rescues and rehabilitates stranded marine animals.

17. Astoria

Astoria, located at the mouth of the Columbia River, is another popular tourist destination in Oregon. A key reason to visit Astoria is its deep-rooted connection to the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition.

In 1805, explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark reached the mouth of the Columbia River and set up camp near present-day Astoria. Today, visitors can explore the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park in Astoria, which includes several sites connected to the expedition, including the rebuilt Fort Clatsop where the crew spent the winter of 1805-1806.

While in Astoria, climb the Astor Column for stunning views and visit the many museums, including the Oregon Film Museum, located in the Old Clatsop County Jail, famously featured in The Goonies.

Don’t miss the chance to drive across the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge, the longest continuous truss bridge in the United States, stretching 4.1 miles across the Columbia River to connect Oregon with Washington State.

18. Columbia River Maritime Museum

Located on the waterfront of Astoria, the Columbia River Maritime Museum deserves a mention of its own. This museum highlights the historical significance of this port city and its influence on Oregon’s maritime history over more than two centuries.

Featuring a variety of exhibits, the museum explores the history of the Columbia River through artifacts and displays that cover fishing boats, shipping vessels, navigation tools, and maritime art. The museum also houses an extensive collection of photographs and archives detailing the area’s rich history.

19. Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park, located on Oregon’s northern coast, spans 4,200 acres, including nine miles of ocean shoreline. The park is named after historic Fort Stevens, which served as a military defense facility during the Civil War, World War I, and World War II.

One highlight of your road trip here is the Peter Iredale Shipwreck, located directly on the beach and a popular photo opportunity. The site features the old fort, military batteries, and the Oregon Military Museum, showcasing the fort’s history and military defense in the region.

If you’re looking to stretch your legs, the Columbia River Beach offers a lengthy stretch, perfect for beachcombing and tide pool exploration.

20. Oregon Coast Trail

If you enjoy sandy beaches, dramatic coastlines, and the spirit of adventure, then the Oregon Coast Trail is a fantastic choice. This trail stretches along 363 miles of coastline on the Pacific Coast, comprising several segments designed for easy hiking. A standout portion is located in Ecola State Park, offering breathtaking cliff views of the ocean.

The Oregon Coast Trail starts at the Columbia River south jetty in Fort Stevens State Park, traveling all the way down to the California border at Crissey Field State Recreation Site.

21. Pacific Crest Trail

For those seeking a more challenging experience, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) runs 455.2 miles from the Washington border to southern Oregon. If you want a taste of what hikers experience while traveling from Canada to Mexico, join the PCT for a few days.

You’ll pass through picturesque landscapes of lodgepole pines while enjoying views of Crater Lake, the Oregon Cascade Mountains, wildflowers, rivers, wildlife, and so much more. You don’t have to hike the entire trail to enjoy its beauty; you can join it at any time. For more information on day hikes, check the PCT Oregon Website.

22. Oregon Caves National Monument

Located in the Siskiyou Mountains of southern Oregon, the Oregon Caves National Monument is an essential stop for families seeking adventurous things to do in Oregon. Established in 1909, this unique destination occupies over 480 acres of protected land, centering around the Oregon Caves—an extensive series of marble caverns formed by underground streams over millions of years.

Visitors can join a guided cave tour led by a park ranger to explore the underground caves and witness the unique stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and guides visitors through paths that dip down to 45 inches in height, requiring a minimum height of 42 inches to participate. Visit the website for more details on tours.

23. Sea Lions Cave

Sea Lions Cave is another fun attraction for visitors eager to see sea lions in their natural habitat. Situated near Florence, this is the largest sea cave in America and the only known mainland rookery for Stellar sea lions in the country. Discovered in 1880, the cave developed into a tourist attraction during the 1930s.

More than 12 stories tall, the cave spans an area comparable to a football field. With an elevator that transports visitors into the caves, this unique adventure allows guests to observe sea lions lounging, swimming, and interacting with one another.

In addition to the Stellar sea lions, visitors may also spot harbor seals and a variety of seabirds that call the cave’s walls home. The best time to visit Sea Lion Caves is during winter and spring when the sea lions are most active.

24. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor features a stunning stretch of the Oregon coast, showcasing the Pacific Ocean’s rugged cliffs and pristine beaches. With several scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and natural landmarks such as Arch Rock and Natural Bridges, the experience here is breathtaking.

This 12-mile stretch of coastline runs just south of Brookings to the Pistol River and offers a full day’s worth of exploration, including hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for whale spotting.

25. Willamette Valley Vineyards

Oregon wine country thrives in the Willamette Valley, which boasts over 500 wineries within 150 miles. Known for producing some of the best Pinot Noirs in America, this beautiful region is also ideal for cycling, hiking, and leisurely vineyard visits. Consider taking a wine tour to explore the scenery and sample the wines.

Oregon is also home to additional wine regions beyond Willamette Valley, with 21 regions producing over 100 varieties of grapes. An example is the Faith, Hope, and Charity Vineyard , located just 20 minutes from Bend.

26. Silver Falls State Park

For waterfall enthusiasts, Silver Falls State Park should top your list of Oregon activities. Located in the Cascade Mountains east of Salem, this expansive park encompasses over 9,000 acres of protected land.

A highlight at Silver Falls is the Trail of Ten Falls, weaving through forested landscapes and passing by a series of ten waterfalls. This moderate 7.2-mile loop trail is well-maintained and an essential experience.

Silver Falls State Park offers typical park amenities such as picnic areas, campgrounds, and day-use facilities. In the summer, visitors can swim and fish in the park’s streams and pools, while winter invites snowshoeing and cross-country skiing activities.

27. Go Horseback Riding at Brasada Ranch

Our time at Brasada Ranch was among our favorite experiences in Oregon, especially the unforgettable trail ride. Located in Central Oregon, just 30 minutes from Bend, this dude ranch combines urban elegance with the beauty of the high desert landscape.

During our ride, we explored Spirit Rock, reminiscent of a scene from an old Western film, with sage filling the air as desert shrubs swayed along the dusty trail. Afterward, we celebrated with a luxurious spa experience and a gourmet dinner.

28. Willamette National Forest

The vast Willamette National Forest enjoys recognition for its outstanding natural beauty, spanning 1.6 million acres across the region.

A key attraction within the forest is the Three Sisters Wilderness, a protected area featuring three volcanic peaks named the Three Sisters. This wilderness provides a plethora of hiking trails through alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and across rushing streams. Lakes and waterfalls, including the popular Sahalie and Koosah Falls, add to the beauty of the landscape.

The McKenzie River Trail, a 26-mile trail following the river through the forest, offers stunning views and leads past attractions like Tamolitch Blue Pool and Sahalie and Koosah Falls.

29. Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF), situated in Ashland, is one of the largest and most renowned regional theaters in the United States. Naturally, it primarily showcases the works of William Shakespeare.

Founded in 1935, OSF has established itself as a cultural institution in the Pacific Northwest, attracting over 400,000 visitors each year and becoming a major tourist draw in Oregon. The festival produces plays in three theaters, including the iconic outdoor Elizabethan Theatre, seating over 1,000 attendees.

Experiencing a Shakespearean play performed by professional actors is a must for anyone, making the Oregon Shakespeare Festival an unforgettable experience.

30. Wallowa Whitman National Forest

Venturing to the Wallowa Mountains, the Wallowa Whitman National Forest is another sought-after hiking destination in Oregon. Popular trails include the Chief Joseph Trail, the Eagle Cap Wilderness Loop, and the Wallowa Lake Trail.

This national forest features scenic drives and camping options, in addition to various outdoor activities throughout the year. Enjoy the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway and the Wallowa Mountain Loop Road drives, all while keeping an eye out for local wildlife like elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and black bears. During winter, the Anthony Lakes Ski Resort is a favored spot for downhill skiing and snowboarding.

31. Wallowa Lake Tramway

For breathtaking views, take the tramway to the summit of Mt. Howard, where expansive panoramas of Wallowa Lake await. Located in Northeastern Oregon, this 3,700-foot tramway provides one of the most popular attractions in Oregon. Relax at the top with a drink while admiring the stunning scenery.

The Wallowa Mountains are often compared to the Swiss Alps, a compliment to their impressive beauty!

32. Spend Time in Portland

No exploration of Oregon would be complete without mentioning Portland. This vibrant city sits at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, creating an exciting destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an urban vibe.

Portland pleasantly surprised us with its laid-back ambiance and quirky charm. With the fitting slogan “Keep Portland Weird,” the city offers a plethora of things to do, especially for foodies and culture seekers. Highlights include indulging in food truck delicacies, browsing over a million books at Powell’s City of Books, and walking across the St. John’s Bridge for scenic views of the Willamette River.

33. Washington Park

Washington Park, a sprawling urban oasis easily accessible via Portland’s light rail, spans 458 acres replete with attractions. The park features the Oregon Zoo, an archery range, tennis courts, an arboretum, and numerous trails. Notably, two unique gardens stand out as star attractions.

Rose Garden

Known as the City of Roses, Portland proudly hosts the stunning International Rose Test Garden. Situated within Washington Park, this garden showcases 500 varieties of roses from around the world. Roses are brought to this location to test their viability and character.

While the garden is open year-round, it’s best appreciated from May to September, during which over 10,000 rose bushes bloom, accompanied by breathtaking views of Mt. Hood. After visiting the garden, consider stopping by the iconic Salt & Straw ice cream shop for unique flavors.

Portland Japanese Garden

Regarded as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is another must-see within Washington Park. Our experiences visiting Japanese and Chinese gardens have revealed their serene beauty, with elements like water features, rocks, and traditional architecture working together harmoniously.

The Portland Japanese Garden replicates the tranquil gardens of Japan, incorporating rocks, pagodas, and ponds that create a peaceful atmosphere.

34. Portland Museums

If you find yourself seeking indoor activities, consider Portland’s museums. A couple of standout options include:

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) has operated since 1944 and is one of the oldest science museums in the country. It’s an excellent destination for indoor fun on a rainy day.

OMSI features numerous hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and interactive displays across various scientific disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and technology. Popular exhibits include the Earth Science Hall, where visitors can explore a replica of a Pacific Northwest cave, and the Turbine Hall with large-scale demonstrations of water and electricity.

Portland Art Museum

For art aficionados, the Portland Art Museum is a must-visit. Located near Portland State University, the museum showcases works from around the globe, especially focusing on Pacific Northwest Native American art.

Dedicate a day to wander the galleries and absorb the impressive masterpieces, stunning photography, and iconic prints. Even with just a couple of hours, you can have a fulfilling experience.

Where to Stay in Portland

• The Benson, a Coastal Hotel – This elegant hotel has been serving guests for over a century, situated in the heart of downtown Portland.
• The Jupiter – A retro-themed hotel that evokes nostalgia, having transformed a vintage motor inn into a stylish boutique hotel with mid-century decor.

So these are the best things to do in Oregon! Have you explored the Pacific Northwest? What are your favorite attractions in Oregon?