8 Unspoiled Small Towns in Oregon

With nearly half of Oregon’s population calling the Portland metro area home, it’s no wonder city-goers crave a getaway. Fortunately, Oregon is packed with lush forests, towering mountains, and lively rivers and lakes, offering plenty of options for a relaxing escape. These unspoiled towns across "The Beaver State" each bring something unique to the table, from exciting activities such as whitewater rafting to hidden natural gems, such as Hells Canyon, ensuring a refreshing adventure for every visitor.

Florence

Florence is located along both the beautiful Central Oregon Coast and the Siuslaw River, a town of over 9,000 residents with plenty of scenic beauty. Between the town and the sea, visitors can take in the Oregon Dunes, one of the continent’s largest expanses of coastal sand dunes. On the northern tip of these dunes, travelers can walk along a section known as North Jetty, where they can appreciate panoramic views of the ocean below. Those eager to view some marine wildlife can visit the Sea Lion Caves Wildlife Preserve, home to hundreds of sea lions, as well as a variety of sea birds. Lucky visitors may spot a whale off of the coast as well.

Downtown, there is a historic district with several blocks of 19th-century buildings, making for an excellent stroll. River Roasters is a great spot for an afternoon coffee, located right by the river and offering a variety of souvenirs and gifts.

Redmond

Redmond, located in Central Oregon with a population of about 38,000 people, has a vibrant culinary and brewery scene, making it the perfect escape for foodies. Those looking for a premium meal can make a reservation at Brickhouse, a specialty prime steak and seafood restaurant, or enjoy a more laidback meal and a beer at Cascade Lakes Pub on 7th Street. For even more great craft beer, General Duffy’s Waterhole offers 20 different varieties of local craft beer, and Silver Line Brewing offers both traditional and experimental varieties.

In addition to its culinary scene, Redmond has some excellent places to hike nearby. Smith Rock State Park, featuring steep canyons and winding rivers, is an excellent option, as well as Lake Billy Chinook, which is also excellent for fishing, boating, and swimming.

Cannon Beach

Just 90 minutes west of Portland, Cannon Beach, a small town with a population of just 1,500 residents, makes a great weekend escape from city life. Because of its location along the Pacific coast, visiting its scenic beaches is a must. The beach surrounding Haystack Rock is one of the most popular, stretching from Ecola Creek to Tolovana Park. The towering 235-foot rock is one of the town’s most photographed landmarks, surrounded by lively tidepools and nesting puffins. Ecola State Park is another popular coastal attraction featuring paved walking trails where visitors can stroll along and appreciate panoramic views of the coastline.

One of the other magical aspects of a weekend away in Cannon Beach is lodging in one of the town’s waterfront accommodations, such as The Ocean Lodge, a premium beach resort that offers a 1940s-era vibe and beautiful architecture. Recognized as one of the country’s top art towns, visitors must find the time to stop by one of the local art galleries or attend one of its art festivals, such as the Stormy Weather Arts Festival, which takes place at the beginning of November.

Joseph

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and alpine lakes, Joseph, with a population of 1,194 residents, has earned itself the nickname the “Little Switzerland of America.” The town is the perfect base camp for serious hikers. The Eagle Cap Wilderness lies in the surrounding area around the town, featuring over 360,000 acres of wilderness and 534 miles of trails, making it the largest wilderness area in the state. Hells Canyon National Recreation area, home to the deepest river gorge on the continent, is also nearby, offering adventurers the opportunity to hike, horseback ride, or white water boat.

Within the town, a number of restaurants continue to reflect the natural mountain atmosphere, such as Stubborn Mule Saloon and Steakhouse, which has a laid-back outdoor seating area in the warmer months and a wide variety of dishes, including steaks, pasta, burgers, and salads. Joseph also puts on a popular annual car show featuring up to 200 mountain cruise cars, taking place each summer.

Oregon City

Just about a half-hour south of Portland is Oregon City, Oregon’s first capital, with a fascinating history that reminisces on the 19th century. The Museum of the Oregon Territory is an excellent place to start, showcasing the region’s stories and cultural and industrial stories through exhibits, programs, and activities. The Baker Cabin Historical Site is another important landmark, featuring a family cabin dating back to 1856 and a restored 1895 German Methodist Pioneer Church.

Along both the Willamette and Clackamas rivers, there are plenty of recreational activities for visitors to take part in. eNRG Kayaking is a great kayak rental option for those wanting to get out on the Willamette River and explore the falls. After a busy day exploring the town’s history and rivers, hungry visitors can grab a bite at one of the town’s famed local restaurants, such as Canard, which offers everything from seafood to pork ribeye to tasty salads.

Silverton

Silverton, home to around 10,000 residents, has a rich history rooted in Native American tribes who lived there for centuries and settlers who arrived in the 1800s seeking hydropower and timber. The Silverton Country Historical Society is a fantastic way for visitors to explore more of the history, with an old-fashioned school room, vintage photography collection, and logging and agricultural artifacts on display. There are also over ten National Registered places buildings scattered throughout town, ranging from an early 20th-century barn to a Greek Revival style steeple.

The Silverton Farmers Market is another great way to get a sense of the town’s tight-knit community, selling a variety of fresh and local produce, such as berries, carrots, and even lavender. In the mood for a sweet treat? The Silverton Bake Shop is a cozy bakery in downtown Silverton, specializing in cakes and cupcakes, and also serving croissants, brownies, cookies, and scones.

Grants Pass

In the heart of Oregon's wine country and with a packed calendar of events, Grants Pass is a lively town that keeps travelers entertained year-round. Bikers will enjoy the scenic ride through Applegate Valley, winding past the Applegate River, forests, and rocky hills. With around 20 vineyards along the route, it's perfect for a few memorable pit stops.

Not into biking? Rafting is another exciting option down the white waters of the Rogue River. Indigo Creek Outfitters, for example, offers a morning rafting expedition followed by an afternoon trip to several wineries for a tasting of the area’s local wines. Before heading to Grants Pass, make sure to check out the town’s annual calendar. Annual events include May Wine Month, the Boatnik carnival-style festival, Art in the Garden—a garden tour featuring local artists—and a festive events calendar in November and December.

Hood River

Just about an hour northeast of Portland is Hood River, a laid-back town with a population of a little over 8,000 residents. With a rich agricultural history and agrotourism scene, a trip out to one of the town’s nearby orchards or farms is a must. Draper Girls Country Farm has a year-round stand selling seven varieties of apples as well as Dahlia flowers. Packer Orchards is open seasonally, hosting family-friendly events such as a fall festival and seasonal produce, such as strawberries, peaches, cherries, apples, pears, and pumpkins, which are available for purchase on the farm.

Art enthusiasts will enjoy the town’s Big Art Walking Tour, a 4.5-mile tour that passes through various public art sculptures around town. There is also an audio tour available on the tour’s website. Hood River has several charming bed and breakfasts to lodge in, such as the Inn at the Gorge, a historic inn constructed in the early 20th century that offers a homemade and fresh breakfast each morning.

Whether you prefer trips packed with adventure or a peaceful retreat, these less-traveled Oregon towns cater to every type of traveler. Wine lovers can have a relaxing trip away at Grants Pass, while hikers and campers can enjoy the great outdoors in Joseph's nearby parks. So, fuel up, book your stay, and get ready to explore these off-the-beaten-path towns in Oregon!