Oregon

From vibrant cities like Portland and Bend, to pristine nature both inland and along the cliff-studded Oregon Coast, this Pacific Northwest state is a wonderful destination for travelers looking for art, culture, food, outdoors adventures, or some combination.

A photo of a beautiful waterfall in Oregon surrounded by evergreens and orange-leafed trees in the fall.

Make beautiful places—like Bend—a part of your trip to Oregon.

Photo by Aleksander Todorovic/Shutterstock

Overview

When’s the best time to go to Oregon?

Many will say that Oregon is best visited in the summer, when the state sees less rain, long days, and warm temperatures. Although more rainy, spring and fall bring their own kind of charm, and winter is the ideal time of year for enjoying Oregon’s ski and snowboarding slopes.

Can’t miss things to do in Oregon

Oregon has a wide variety of activities for travelers. Some highlights of travel in the state include:

  • Exploring the artistic and culinary scenes in the quirky, creative city of Portland.
  • Wine tasting in Willamette Valley.
  • Sipping your way through Oregon’s acclaimed craft beer scene.
  • Road tripping along the Oregon coast.
  • Hiking the iconic Multnomah Falls and going for a scenic drive along the Colombia River.
  • Mountain biking, hiking, or skiing on Mount Hood.
  • Visiting Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States.
  • Getting outdoors, any time of the year, in nature-loving Bend.
  • Attending the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland.

Practical Information

No matter what time of year it is, bring a great rain jacket. In summer months, prepare for heat and in winter, snow. Fall and spring weather are all over the map, so wear your layers for a comfortable stay.

Read Before You Go
Hotels
Not into camping? These hotels near national parks offer upscale luxury and comfort in remote, scenic locations.
Resources to help plan your trip
These 11 towns will surprise you with their vineyards, tasting rooms, restaurants, and boutique inns—and have you shipping bottles home by the case.
Quiet Parks International has selected parks, trails, and wilderness where you can escape noise pollution and finally find that ultimate luxury: some good old-fashioned silence.
These are the country’s best parks to see the night sky.
This Oregon Coast beach offers a serene escape to the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
These waterfront camping sites offer unbeatable sunrise and sunset views.
Waterside beauty goes beyond the beach.
What could be more all-American than escaping your everyday routine and holing up in a cozy retreat by one of the country’s picturesque lakes?
From crabbing to kayaking, Oregon’s stretch of 101 has nature, scenic beauty, and adventure in spades.
Pack your bags, put on your sunglasses, and get ready to discover your next favorite beach.
These state park campsites rival the beauty of U.S. national parks.
Experience national parks and renowned trails without worrying about accommodations.
The designation is given to destinations with exceptional night sky visibility, allowing for incredible views of the stars and other astronomical phenomena.
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