When friends or family come to visit, one of the best parts is showing off the place you call home. And here in Oregon, there’s no shortage of things to do, see, and experience. From breathtaking outdoor adventures to cozy city moments, Oregon truly has something for everyone. Whether your visitors are thrill-seekers, foodies, or just looking to soak in the scenery, here’s your guide to planning an unforgettable trip.
1. Explore the Oregon Coast
You can’t go wrong with a trip to the coast. Just a short drive from the Portland Metro area, visitors will love exploring iconic spots like Cannon Beach (hello, Haystack Rock!), the charming shops in Manzanita, or the rugged beauty of Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City. Bonus points for grabbing fish and chips at one of the many coastal seafood shacks.
2. Visit Oregon’s Wine Country
Show off the Willamette Valley with a wine tasting day trip. With over 700 wineries, you’ll find everything from scenic vineyard views to cozy tasting rooms. A few standouts include Domaine Serene in Dayton, Stoller Family Estate in Dayton, and Ponzi Vineyards in Sherwood. Many wineries also serve small bites and charcuterie boards, so you can linger and relax with your guests.
3. Take in the Columbia River Gorge
For jaw-dropping scenery and easy access to nature, the Columbia River Gorge never disappoints. You can stop by Multnomah Falls for that iconic photo op, enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic viewpoints, or hit one of the many hiking trails. For a unique twist, plan a stop at Hood River for breweries, cideries, and even windsurfing in the summer.
4. Experience the City Vibes of Portland
Portland is full of fun and quirky things to do, and your visitors will love exploring them. Browse the stacks at Powell’s City of Books, stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden, or check out the food cart pods for an array of local flavors. If your crew enjoys a good laugh, Portland’s comedy scene and live music venues also make for a great night out.
5. Chase Waterfalls
It’s not just a saying—Oregon is packed with waterfalls, and many are easily accessible. The Silver Falls State Park “Trail of Ten Falls” is a must-do if your visitors are up for a bit of hiking. With options to walk behind waterfalls and enjoy lush forest views, this will definitely be a trip highlight.
6. Plan a Mount Hood Adventure
Mount Hood is the perfect year-round destination. In winter, head up for skiing or snowboarding at Timberline or Mt. Hood Meadows. In the warmer months, you can enjoy scenic chairlift rides, alpine hikes, and even mountain biking. Make sure to stop by Timberline Lodge—its historic charm and mountain views are unbeatable.
7. Enjoy Local Food and Drink
From craft beer to farm-to-table dining, Oregon’s culinary scene deserves its own highlight. Introduce your visitors to Portland’s breweries, the famous Voodoo Doughnut (or better yet, Blue Star if they’re into elevated flavors), and restaurants showcasing local ingredients. For something unique, take them to a distillery tour in the city or a cider house in the Gorge.
8. Soak in Oregon’s Hot Springs
If your guests are up for something different, a trip to one of Oregon’s natural hot springs is a relaxing way to spend a day. Popular options include Bagby Hot Springs (just east of Estacada) or Belknap Hot Springs near McKenzie Bridge.
9. Visit Unique Small Towns
Sometimes the best way to experience Oregon is to slow down and explore its charming small towns. McMinnville is perfect for wine, dining, and boutique shopping. Hood River has an adventurous vibe with easy access to hiking and water sports. Bend is ideal if your visitors love breweries, sunshine, and outdoor recreation.
10. Keep it Local with a Backyard BBQ or Firepit
After a day of exploring, invite your guests to unwind at home. Nothing beats a casual backyard BBQ, s’mores by the firepit, or a simple evening on the deck enjoying Oregon’s fresh air.
Oregon is a dream destination, and sharing it with friends and family makes it even better. Whether you’re planning a full itinerary or just hitting a few highlights, there’s no shortage of ways to show off the beauty and personality of our state.
