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Oregon
United States
Visit Oregon
Oregon, a state known for its diverse landscapes and vibrant cultural scene, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication that makes it a must-visit destination. From the rugged Pacific coastline to the majestic Cascade Range, and from lush forests to high desert, the state's varied geography provides a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're hiking the scenic trails of the Columbia River Gorge, exploring the otherworldly landscapes of the Painted Hills, or enjoying water sports on the pristine lakes of the Cascades, Oregon's natural attractions are both breathtaking and accessible.
In addition to its natural wonders, Oregon boasts a rich cultural tapestry that reflects its history and contemporary innovation. Portland, the state's largest city, epitomizes Oregon's creative spirit, with its thriving arts scene, innovative culinary offerings, and famous craft breweries and coffeehouses. The city is also known for its eco-conscious approach, with extensive bike paths, parks, and green spaces that invite visitors to explore the urban environment sustainably. Beyond Portland, cities like Bend, Ashland, and Eugene offer their own unique charm, from the high desert arts and recreation in Bend to the internationally renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland.
Oregon's commitment to preservation and sustainability is evident in its approach to tourism. The state's wine industry is a perfect example, with numerous vineyards practicing organic and biodynamic farming to produce world-class wines, particularly Pinot Noir. A visit to the Willamette Valley, Oregon’s wine heartland, provides not just a taste of its viticultural bounty but also picturesque views of rolling hills dotted with vineyards. Meanwhile, the Oregon Coast offers a dramatic coastline with towering cliffs, secluded coves, and historic lighthouses, all connected by the scenic Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, which provides ample opportunities for whale watching, tide pooling, and coastal hikes.
Whether you're drawn by the call of the wild, the allure of cutting-edge urban culture, or the simple pleasure of a sunset over the Pacific, Oregon offers a rich and varied experience that combines the best of both nature and human creativity. It's a place where you can find both adventure and tranquility, often within just a few miles of each other, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in all aspects of the Pacific Northwest's enchanting environment.
Find your Next Adventure in Oregon
Explore Oregon
Iconic Landmarks
Crater Lake National Park
- Known for its vivid blue color and water clarity, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, formed from a collapsed volcano.
Multnomah Falls
- Located in the Columbia River Gorge, this stunning 620-foot waterfall is one of the tallest and most visited waterfalls in Oregon.
Cannon Beach
- Famous for its dramatic coastline and the iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach offers scenic views and is a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers.
Mount Hood
- Oregon's highest peak, Mount Hood is a prominent landmark offering year-round recreational activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and hiking.
Oregon Shakespeare Festival
- Based in Ashland, this internationally renowned festival celebrates the works of Shakespeare and other classic playwrights with performances running from February to October.
Portland Japanese Garden
- Situated in the West Hills of Portland, this serene garden is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, featuring traditional elements like koi ponds and tea houses.
Cultural Experiences
Oregon Shakespeare Festival
- Held in Ashland, this renowned festival celebrates the works of Shakespeare with performances running from February to October.
Portland Rose Festival
- An annual event since 1907, this festival features parades, fireworks, and a variety of family-oriented activities celebrating Portland's rich culture.
Pendleton Round-Up
- One of the oldest and most prestigious rodeos in the world, the Pendleton Round-Up showcases traditional cowboy and Native American culture every September.
Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest
- Every June, professional and amateur builders flock to Cannon Beach to create elaborate sand sculptures in one of the oldest sandcastle competitions in the United States.
Feast Portland
- A culinary festival that celebrates Oregon's bounty, featuring local and international chefs, with events spread across Portland focusing on food innovation and sustainability.
Northwest Folklife Festival
- Held in Seattle but drawing a significant crowd from Oregon, this festival celebrates the music, dance, and art of the Pacific Northwest, with performances and workshops highlighting folk and ethnic traditions.
Outdoor Adventures
Crater Lake National Park
- Explore the deep-blue waters of Crater Lake, formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano, offering scenic drives and spectacular hiking trails.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
- Experience breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, and over 100 miles of hiking trails along the Columbia River, which carves its way through a dramatic gorge.
Mount Hood
- Tackle Oregon's highest peak, which offers year-round skiing and snowboarding, as well as numerous hiking and mountain biking trails in the surrounding forest.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
- Stretching for 40 miles along the coast, this area offers adventures like dune buggy rides, sandboarding, and hiking through shifting sand landscapes.
Smith Rock State Park
- Known as a rock climbing mecca, this park also provides opportunities for hiking and mountain biking amidst dramatic volcanic rock formations.
Rogue River
- Raft or kayak through wild and scenic river sections, or fish for salmon and steelhead in one of Oregon's most famous waterways.
Off the Beaten Path
Alvord Desert
- A vast, arid expanse in southeastern Oregon, offering stunning views and a unique, remote landscape for camping and stargazing.
Owyhee Canyonlands
- A rugged and beautiful wilderness area in eastern Oregon, featuring dramatic canyons, rivers, and hot springs, ideal for adventurous hikers and rafters.
Cape Perpetua
- Located on the central Oregon coast, this scenic area offers lush forest trails leading to breathtaking ocean views and volcanic features.
Painted Hills
- Part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, these brilliantly colored hills are a geological wonder, showcasing millions of years of earth's history.
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
- A 12-mile stretch along Oregon’s southern coast that features secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, and dense coastal forests.
Malheur National Wildlife Refuge
- A haven for bird watchers and nature lovers, this refuge in eastern Oregon provides a vital habitat for a diverse array of migratory birds and wildlife.
Oregon Fun Facts
- Oregon has more ghost towns than any other state.
- The state's official animal is the beaver.
- Oregon is the only state with an official state nut, the hazelnut.
- Crater Lake in Oregon is the deepest lake in the United States.
- The "Oregon Trail" was a major route that pioneers traveled to reach the west coast.
- Portland, Oregon, is known as the "City of Roses."
- Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America.
- Oregon was the first state to decriminalize marijuana for personal use.
- The University of Oregon's mascot, The Duck, often does push-ups after the team scores.
- Oregon has no sales tax, making it a popular shopping destination for residents of neighboring states.
Featured Picture Gallery
Crater Lake was Formed By a Collapsed Volcano Named Mount Mazama
Even in the Winter, Crater Lake Provides a Beautiful View
Even When the Weather is Warming in Other Areas, Crater Lake Can Still be Snowy in May and June