Your Ultimate Oregon Travel Guide: Explore the Beaver State

Oregon, a land of dramatic coastlines, dense forests, and volcanic peaks, offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, vibrant city life, or culinary delights, this Oregon Travel Guide will help you plan your perfect trip. Having explored Oregon extensively, I’m excited to share my insights and recommendations to ensure you fall in love with the Beaver State.

Getting to Oregon and Around

Oregon is easily accessible via air, road, and rail, making it a convenient destination to reach and explore.

Flying into Oregon

For those arriving by air, Portland International Airport (PDX) is the primary gateway. Serviced by all major US carriers, including United, Delta, Alaska, American, and Southwest, PDX offers numerous domestic and international connections. However, flights from the East Coast can be pricey. Consider using points and miles, especially looking for Alaska Airlines flights and transferring points to British Airways for potentially better deals.

Don’t rush through PDX; it’s an airport worth experiencing. Priority Pass holders with Chase credit cards can enjoy perks at Capers Cafe Le Bar and Westward Whiskey, where a restaurant credit of $28 can be applied to your bill.

Road and Rail Travel in Oregon

Oregon is well-connected by roads, making it ideal for scenic drives. Highway 101 along the coast is legendary, offering breathtaking views. Amtrak also serves Oregon, with routes connecting major cities like Portland and Eugene.

Portland is a short drive or train ride from Seattle (under 3 hours). However, to truly appreciate each region, consider dedicating at least a week to explore either Oregon or Washington separately. Both states boast incredible day trip options: Seattle with Mt. Rainier, Olympic Peninsula, and San Juan Islands, and Portland with numerous natural wonders accessible within a short drive.

Navigating Within Oregon Cities

Public transportation in Oregon cities varies. Portland has light rail and streetcar lines, but for comprehensive exploration, especially beyond city centers, a car is recommended. Ride-sharing services are readily available, but for day trips and venturing into more remote areas, having your own vehicle provides greater flexibility.

Driving in Oregon is generally pleasant, with manageable traffic and parking, even in larger cities like Portland. This ease of navigation makes renting a car a worthwhile option for maximizing your Oregon experience.

Best Time to Visit Oregon

Oregon’s weather is diverse, ranging from coastal mildness to high desert aridity and mountain snow. The best time to visit depends on your priorities.

Generally, Oregon experiences two primary weather patterns: a gray and rainy season, and a beautifully sunny season. While climate change is impacting weather patterns, the rainy season typically begins in November and lasts until late June.

For the highest chance of dry, sunny weather, plan your Oregon travel for July, August, or September. Summers in Oregon are characterized by blue skies and moderate temperatures. Heatwaves are infrequent and humidity remains low, ensuring comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

However, Oregon’s weather can be unpredictable year-round. Even during the drier months, pack layers and a rain jacket. Rain can be intermittent and often more of a mist than a downpour. Don’t let cloudy mornings deter you; many days transition to sunshine by afternoon. With a bit of preparedness, any time of year can be a good time to experience Oregon.

Accommodation in Oregon: Where to Stay

Oregon offers a wide array of accommodation options, from cozy coastal inns to stylish urban hotels and rustic mountain lodges. Consider your itinerary and preferred style when choosing where to stay.

In Portland, the city is divided by the Willamette River into distinct quadrants: Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast, and North Portland. The east side, encompassing Northeast and Southeast, is known for its “Portlandia” vibe, with independent shops, street art, and a residential atmosphere. The west side, including downtown and Northwest/Southwest, has a more urban feel with historic architecture, upscale hotels, and major attractions.

For a local Portland experience, consider Airbnbs on the east side, particularly near NE Alberta, NE Mississippi, SE Hawthorne, or SE Division streets, known for their vibrant shops and restaurants.

However, Portland’s west side offers numerous chic and affordable hotels with excellent walkability to downtown attractions. This location is ideal if you prefer hotel amenities and easy access to the city center while still being a short drive from the east side and day trip destinations.

Recommended Portland Hotels

Point Hotels:

The Porter Portland (Curio Collection by Hilton): A stylish and comfortable hotel in downtown Portland, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. Enjoy well-appointed rooms, city views, and the ability to use Hilton Honors points for free nights.
The Hi-Lo Hotel (Autograph Collection by Marriott): Located in a prime downtown location, this Marriott Autograph Collection hotel boasts beautiful design, a Northwest-inspired restaurant, and proximity to major attractions. Redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for stays here.

Boutique & Unique Hotels:

The Woodlark: Highly-rated boutique hotel in downtown Portland, known for its stunning ground floor featuring Good Coffee and Abigail Hall cocktail bar. Bookable through Chase travel portal or using points from Capital One Venture.
The Hoxton: Trendy and well-designed hotel with a fantastic rooftop taco bar, Tope, and a hidden speakeasy. Located in downtown Portland, offering a hip urban experience.
Ace Hotel: Originating in the Pacific Northwest, the Ace Hotel in Portland is centrally located and known for its cool, minimalist style and proximity to the Pearl District and Pioneer Courthouse Square.

Top Things to Do in Oregon: A Diverse Itinerary

Oregon’s attractions are as varied as its landscapes. From natural wonders to urban explorations, there’s something for everyone in this Pacific Northwest gem.

Nature and Outdoor Activities in Oregon

Oregon’s natural beauty is a major draw. Here are some must-visit outdoor destinations:

International Rose Test Garden (Portland): Known as the “City of Roses,” Portland’s International Rose Test Garden is the oldest continuously operating public rose test garden in the US. Visit during summer to witness over 10,000 roses in bloom and enjoy panoramic city views.
Forest Park (Portland): Escape into nature within city limits at Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the US. Explore over 80 miles of trails amidst lush greenery and serene landscapes.
Mt. Tabor Park (Portland): Hike or picnic in a park situated on an extinct volcano. Mt. Tabor Park offers hiking trails, reservoirs, and 360-degree views of Portland.
Cathedral Park (Portland): Unique park located beneath the St. Johns Bridge, offering stunning views of the bridge’s cathedral-like arches reflected in the Willamette River.
Columbia River Gorge: A short drive east of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge boasts dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Multnomah Falls is a popular highlight.
Mt. Hood: Oregon’s highest peak offers year-round recreation. Hike scenic trails like Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain Trail in summer, and ski at Timberline Lodge in winter.
Oregon Coast: Explore dramatic coastline, sandy beaches, and charming towns. Cannon Beach, with its iconic Haystack Rock, is a must-see. Visit tide pools and enjoy breathtaking ocean vistas.
Crater Lake National Park: Witness the deep blue waters of Crater Lake, formed in a volcanic caldera. Hike, boat, and marvel at the park’s unique geological beauty.
Smith Rock State Park: For rock climbing and hiking enthusiasts, Smith Rock offers stunning rock formations and challenging trails in Central Oregon’s high desert.

Urban Exploration and Cultural Experiences in Oregon

Oregon’s cities are vibrant and offer a range of cultural and urban attractions:

Alberta Arts District (Portland): Explore eclectic shops, art galleries, street art, and diverse restaurants in this Northeast Portland neighborhood.
Hawthorne & Division Streets (Portland): Wander along SE Hawthorne and SE Division streets, browsing quirky boutiques, cafes, and enjoying the unique Portland atmosphere. Division Street is particularly known for its dining scene.
Powell’s City of Books (Portland): Book lovers should not miss Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest used and new bookstore, spanning an entire city block in Portland’s Pearl District.
Pearl District (Portland): Explore this revitalized warehouse district with art galleries, boutiques, upscale restaurants, and breweries.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) (Portland): Interactive science museum perfect for families and anyone interested in science and technology.
Portland Art Museum: Discover a diverse collection of art spanning various periods and cultures.
Voodoo Doughnut (Portland): Iconic Portland doughnut shop known for its quirky and creative doughnut creations.

Scenic Views and Landmarks in Oregon

Portland Aerial Tram: Ride the aerial tram for panoramic views of Portland’s skyline, the Willamette River, and surrounding mountains.
Portland Saturday Market: Stroll through this weekend market along the Willamette River, enjoying riverfront views and browsing crafts and local products.
Pittock Mansion (Portland): Visit this historic house museum perched in the West Hills, offering stunning views of Portland and the Cascade Mountains. Explore the mansion’s history and gardens.
St. Johns Bridge (Portland): Admire the iconic St. Johns Bridge, a Gothic-style suspension bridge, from Cathedral Park or viewpoints along the Willamette River.
Haystack Rock (Cannon Beach): Marvel at the majestic Haystack Rock, a towering sea stack on Cannon Beach, a quintessential Oregon Coast landmark.

Day Trips from Portland: Exploring Beyond the City

Oregon’s diverse landscapes are easily accessible for day trips from Portland:

Columbia River Gorge: (West of Portland) Explore waterfalls, hike trails, and visit charming towns like Hood River in this natural wonder just a short drive east of Portland.
Mt. Hood: (West of Portland) Hike, ski, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain scenery at Mt. Hood National Forest.
Willamette Valley (Oregon Wine Country): (East of Portland) Sample world-class Pinot Noir and explore picturesque wineries in the Willamette Valley, clustered around Dundee and McMinnville.
Cannon Beach/Oregon Coast: (East of Portland) Enjoy a day trip to the Oregon Coast, exploring Cannon Beach, tide pools, and coastal scenery.

Oregon’s Culinary Scene: Where to Eat

Oregon’s food scene is as diverse and exciting as its landscapes. From farm-to-table dining to innovative food carts, here are some culinary highlights:

Portland Restaurants: Sit-Down Dining (Reservations Recommended)

Ava Gene’s: Modern Italian cuisine in SE Division, known for its consistently excellent dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
Tusk: Mediterranean small plates from the same team as Ava Gene’s, perfect for sharing and exploring diverse flavors.
Kachka: Modern Russian cuisine offering a unique and flavorful dining experience, famous for its dumplings (pelmeni).

Portland Restaurants: Sit-Down Dining (Walk-Ins Welcome)

Tope: Rooftop taco bar at The Hoxton hotel, offering delicious tacos, margaritas, and sunset mountain views.
Afuri Izakaya: Popular Japanese ramen chain with a Portland location, known for its high-quality ramen and ingredients.
Tasty & Alder: Well-known Portland dining destination serving brunch and dinner, with a focus on hearty and flavorful dishes.

Portland Restaurants: Casual Eats

Proud Mary: Australian cafe serving healthy and delicious dishes with customizable options and excellent coffee.
Lardo/Bunk Sandwiches: Popular Portland sandwich chains offering quick and satisfying meals, perfect for lunch on the go.
Sizzle Pie: Portland pizza spot with diverse options, including vegan and gluten-free choices.

Portland Desserts

Blue Star Donuts: Artisanal doughnut shop offering gourmet flavors and a local favorite.
Cloud City Ice Cream: Local ice cream shop with unique and delicious flavors, a great alternative to Salt & Straw.

Oregon’s Drinks Scene: Craft Beverages and More

Oregon is renowned for its craft beer, wine, and innovative cocktails.

Portland Cocktail Bars

Hale Pele: Premier tiki bar with immersive atmosphere, phenomenal cocktails, and a distinctly Portland vibe.
Abigail Hall: Stylish cocktail bar in The Woodlark hotel, known for creative cocktails and floral decor.
Pepe Le Moko: Intimate speakeasy inside the Ace Hotel, serving classic cocktails with expertise.
Vault Cocktail Lounge: Relaxed bar in the Pearl District with excellent cocktails and a comfortable atmosphere.
Basement Bar: Hidden speakeasy in the basement of The Hoxton hotel, offering custom cocktails based on your preferences.

Oregon Wine and Beer

Oui! Wine Bar + Restaurant at the Southeast Wine Collective: Wine bar showcasing Oregon wines with small plates in a charming setting.
Oregon Breweries: Explore Oregon’s famous craft beer scene, with numerous breweries throughout the state, from well-known brands to local microbreweries.

Portland Coffee Shops

Good Coffee: Local coffee chain with multiple locations, known for its quality coffee, seasonal lattes, and stylish cafes.
Coava Coffee: Portland-based roaster with its own cafes, serving stellar coffee with distinct character.
Upper Left Roasters: Coffee shop with excellent coffee, house-made macadamia milk, and delicious toasts.

Still on My Oregon Bucket List

Even after exploring extensively, there’s always more to discover in Oregon. Here are a few places still on my list:

Multnomah Whiskey Library (Portland): Extensive whiskey collection in a sophisticated setting.
Portland Japanese Garden: Renowned Japanese garden offering tranquility and beauty.
Woodblock Chocolate Manufactory (Portland): Chocolate factory and cafe where you can watch chocolate being made.
Swiss Hibiscus (Portland): Restaurant featuring Swiss cuisine, particularly Rösti Valaisanne.

This Oregon travel guide is designed to be your starting point for exploring this incredible state. From Portland’s urban delights to Oregon’s natural wonders, your adventure awaits! What are your questions about planning your Oregon trip? Let me know in the comments below!