Learn About Oregon
Oregon is located in the northwestern USA, directly above California. Oregon is best known for its 340-mile spectacular coastline. Yet there are other hidden gems to explore; including Central Oregon's ancient volcanic landscape, gleaming sub-alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and waterfalls.
Q: What is the largest city in Oregon?
The largest city in Oregon is the thriving metropolis of Portland, a liberal and progressive city. Portland is at the forefront of innovation around urban planning, with one of the most advanced public transport systems in the world, and the revitalized Pearl District. The Pearl District has undergone a transformation from an industrial area into a pedestrian friendly, mixed use business and residential area, with innovative architecture, trendy restaurants and cafes, and thoughtfully designed public spaces.
Q: What are the top attractions in Portland?
Portland has a host of tourist attractions including the exquisite Pittock Mansion, Oregon Zoo, Science Museum (OSMI), Aerial Tram, Rose Garden and Japanese Garden. It’s also known for its boutique hotels, including the Nines, Hotel de Luxe, Benson Hotel, Hotel Modera and Hotel Lucia.
Q: What "must-see" waterfalls are close to Portland?
Travel 40 minutes east of Portland to the spectacular Multnomah Falls along the Columbia Gorge. Alternatively, just 1.5 hours south of Portland, visit the "trail of ten waterfalls" and the historic lodge at Silver Falls State Park.
Q: What are the highlights along the famous "Oregon Coast"?
Directly south of Portland, visitors can experience the romance of the Oregon Coast by planning a week-long Oregon Coast Roadtrip, from the fascinating seaport town of Astoria, to Brookings near the Californian Border. The Oregon Coast is worthy of its long standing reputation as of one of America’s best drives, and includes charming coastal towns such as Cannon Beach, Manzanita and Oceanside, and fascinating lighthouses steeped in history along a coastline notorious for shipwrecks; known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific”. There are eight lighthouses in total along the Oregon Coast, but the two most memorable are at Heceta Head and Yaquina Head. For a once in a lifetime experience, consider staying at the Lighthouse Keeper’s quarters at Heceta Head.
Q: Should I visit the Columbia Gorge?
Just a stone’s throw from Portland, visitors can travel east to the spectacular Columbia Gorge along the mighty Columbia River. The 19-mile section of the old historic highway from Troutdale to Dodson, transports visitors into the heart of this lush gorge, with dramatic waterfalls cascading from impossible heights at every turn. The most famous of these waterfalls is Multnomah Falls, with an elegant historic footbridge between the upper and lower falls.
The Hood River township on the Columbia Gorge is perfect for an overnight stay, and transforms into a recreational hub for water-sports on the Columbia River over summer. It’s also the gateway to the Hood River Winery Loop in the fertile foothills around Mount Hood, where visitors can take an enchanting cycling or driving loop through quaint country roads with fruit stalls, u-picks and orchards, and glorious views of Mount Hood.
Q: Where is Oregon's best skiing?
Oregon's two most popular ski destinations are Mount Hood in Northern Oregon, and Mount Bachelor in Central Oregon.
Mount Hood is a popular weekend destination from Portland, and features the famous Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark. This lodge was constructed as a public works project during the 1930’s depression, and dedicated by President Roosevelt in 1937. The building also appears in the 1980’s Jack Nicholson Movie, “The Shining”.
Mount Bachelor is located near the fun ski town of Bend.
Q: Does Oregon have volcanic monuments?
Central Oregon's ancient volcanic landscape will leave a lasting impression on visitors. This vast landscape has unique geological features such as volcanic craters, buttes and an obsidian flow, sculpted over tens of thousands of years.
Some of the key attractions in Central Oregon are the Newberry Volcanic Monument, and Crater Lake National Park, both formed from volcanic eruptions. The Newberry Crater was formed when Mount Newberry collapsed from a series of volcanic eruptions over 500,000 years, and Crater Lake is the remnant of Mount Mazema’s collapse during an eruption 7,700 years ago. Visitors can stay at the historic Crater Lake Lodge on the rim of the crater.
Q: Where are Oregon's best lakes?
Oregon has an abundance of beautiful lakes, mostly inaccessible during winter, but idyllic in summer. When standing on the edge of these pristine jewels, you will experience a sense of peace and tranquility like no other. These lakes are also free from the ravages of over-development, and the sense of solitude is preserved by only a few small resorts and camping grounds.
One of Oregon's most photographed lakes is spectacular Lost Lake in Northern Oregon, located in the Hood River National Forest in the shadow of Mt Hood.
Central Oregon is home to Crater Lake National Park, with a historic lodge situated on the cliffs of this famous lake.
The attractive Central Oregon town of Bend is a great base to explore the Cascades Lakes Loop, featuring a chain of pristine lakes near Mt Bachelor. Some other attractions near Bend include the dramatic Tumalo Falls, and the Newberry Volcanic Monument featuring Paulina Lake, East Lake and beautiful Paulina Falls.
Q: Where are Central Oregon's most charming towns?
Central Oregon's best towns include the trendy ski-town of Bend, the historic village of Jacksonville, and the bustling cultural hub of Ashland, home to the Shakespearean Festival each year. When visiting Ashland, plan a day trip to the Oregon Cave, located in the heart of the mist-laden Siskyou Mountains. Stay overnight in the historic lodge, nestled at the base of a ravine, deep in these mysterious mountains.
Q: What roadtrips would you recommend?
Oregon can best be explored in a week-long road trip. We have therefore provided a 9-day road trip itinerary for both the Oregon Coast and Central Oregon.
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