10 Coziest Small Towns in Oregon
Also known as “The Beaver State,” Oregon is an important component of the Pacific Northwest region of America. Bordering the Pacific Ocean, the scenic and culturally rich land that is Oregon is indeed a place of great discovery for any potential visitor. Full of mountain and river views and with loads of unique American history special to the Western portion of the country, Oregon and its small towns are definite gems to experience firsthand. From fun outdoor activities to close encounters with stories of the past, Oregon’s towns will surely have something for a variety of interests. So do not delay and come see why this State is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to enjoy in all of the United States.
Troutdale
Troutdale is indeed a perfect gateway to the most stunning and unique Columbia River Gorge and is located just some 12 miles from the city of Portland. Founded in 1907, and today home to a population of just over 16,000 residents, Troutdale maintains an old-fashioned ambiance and hosts an assortment of antique shops, local galleries, and very cute family-run restaurants. Explore the historic Multnomah County Poor Farm (completed in 1911), which today contains beautiful outdoor gardens, bars, and even movie theatres for a most exciting outing. And naturally, with the town’s vicinity to the Mount Hood Scenic Byway and the Columbia River Gorge, stunning natural vistas are always on hand here. View the mountains, view the trees, and look out from Crown Point, when traveling to and from Troutdale, a special experience is sure to be encountered by all ages.
The Dalles
Another splendid Oregon destination that enjoys the vicinity of the extraordinary Columbia River Gorge, The Dalles was incorporated in the 1850s and serves as the seat of Wasco County. Home to some 16,000 inhabitants, this town is a great place the entire family can enjoy with historic sites and cultural events galore. Spend time at the Fort Dalles historic site, where a replica 1850s US Army Outpost brings visitors back to the days of the Oregon Territory. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this time machine-like place is a most special outing indeed, while even a casual stroll through town’s Main Street is a wonderful way to relax and learn some history. Meanwhile, at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum, an interactive guide through some 10,000 years of natural history is indeed a most fun and educational day trip.
Astoria
Astoria is Oregon’s oldest nonindigenous settlement, founded back in the year 1811. Also the first port town established west of the Rocky Mountains, this seat of Clatsop County is undoubtedly one of the State’s most beautiful coastal communities. Home to a population of just over 10,000 residents, splendid views of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean are always on hand in Astoria, and inhabitants and visitors alike enjoy such activities like swimming, sailing, and a variety of water-based sports amongst the other charming activities to partake in while in town include a ride on the Astoria Riverfront Trolley, and a visit to the Columbia River Maritime Museum. And with the always majestic Columbia River Gorge in the area, Astoria rightfully serves as a great stopover destination for those coming and going from the River.
Hood River
For those looking to truly be immersed in the splendor of the outdoors, the most beautiful town of Hood River is surely one of Oregon’s best. Indeed, from spectacular waterfalls to exquisite mountain vistas and loads of opportunities for recreational activities, this town of just over 8,000 residents always delights its guests. Go for a scenic bike ride, take a rigorous hike, swim and sail on the eponymous river, marvel at the exquisite Multnomah Falls, or simply drive along the very special Columbia River Highway when in Hood River, there is never a shortage of breathtaking things to do. In addition, why not sample some of the region’s best in locally made wine at spots like the Cathedral Ridge Winery, which pairs quite nicely with the totally awesome views?
Cascade Locks
The town of Cascade Locks is beautifully situated on the banks of the mighty Columbia River, where some of the most alluring vistas of the West Coast can be enjoyed by all. Just some 19 miles from Hood River, this town of just over 1,000 inhabitants will surely never leave anyone with a shortage of great photos or videos to take. Visit the impressive Bridge of the Gods (completed in 1926) which cross the River or take a day trip to Thunder Island, where truly stunning vistas are ready to welcome. In addition, time spent at the Cascade Lock Historical Museum is a great way to learn more about the former Oregon Territory, while a special ride on the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler truly creates a time machine-like experience.
Cannon Beach
Home to a humble population of just under 1,700 residents, the coastal town of Cannon Beach is a breathtaking place to take in cool ocean breezes and stunning views. A charming, cozy, and welcoming beach community, Cannon Beach is indeed a place where small-town American allure and splendid nature come together wonderfully. Enjoy opportunities for swimming, sailing, cycling, hiking, and even water sports, while some magnificent sights of wildlife can be marveled by all ages at the nearby Ecola State Park. With its rainforest-like surroundings, this is truly one place that needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. And do not forget to visit and take photos with the imposing Haystack Rock, which at 235 feet tales dominates the landscape in a most spectacular way.
Florence
The town of Florence lies right at the mouth of the Siuslaw River right on Oregon’s coast with the Pacific Ocean. Indeed one of the State’s most beautiful coastal gems, this Lane County town is full of great opportunities to relish the outdoors and take in a vibrant culture and solo travelers and families alike can certainly appreciate its offerings. Catch great breezes on the Siuslaw River, visit some of town’s landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places, enjoy the sights and smells of the Rhododendron Flower Festival, or spend an informative afternoon at the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum, when in Florence there is certainly never a shortage of things to do. Meanwhile a stop at the Oregon Dunes Recreation Area and the Sea Lion Caves most definitely cannot be missed. Here truly spectacular natural splendor awaits all who visit for a set of memories sure not to be forgotten soon!
Bandon
Established by Irish settlers in the 1870s, the picturesque town of Bandon is situated on the Coquille River which leads into the Pacific Ocean. Known for its year-round cool temperatures, this small town of just over 3,000 residents is indeed a comfortable place to enjoy splendid natural surroundings. Play a round of golf at the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, where up to 121 holes are superbly situated against a unique backdrop of the Ocean and dramatic rocky cliffs, or simply spend the day at any of Bandon’s golden sandy beaches. Meanwhile, in the town’s historic district, a fine assortment of charming and old-fashioned restaurants, shops, and local galleries will surely leave a fine impression on any visitor. And do not forget to take in the smells and sights of September’s Cranberry Festival. Celebrating the harvest, Bandon has long been proud of its heritage as a regional production center for cranberries and its related products.
Cottage Grove
With a modern history dating to the 1850s, the town of Cottage Grove is also affectionately known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon”. Indeed with six such iconic American structures in and around town (five of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places), there is always a memorable photo opportunity to be had in this community of just over 10,500 residents. But beyond the bridges, lush greenery and beautiful rivers are also the norm in Cottage Grove and visitors can enjoy a number of opportunities to take in the beautiful sights of nature. Visit Bohemia Park and its variety of picnicking spots and bike and hiking trails, spend the day at Row River Nature Park for fishing, birdwatching, and jogging opportunities, or simply ride your bike at the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway for a most pretty outing.
Ashland
Ashland is a pretty town located just some 16 miles from the border with California, where visitors will certainly find plenty of outdoor and cultural activities to enjoy in a most comfy setting. Established in the 1850s and now home to a population of just over 21,000 residents, tourists can spend time at such places like the Ashland Artworks Gallery or the Schneider Museum of Art, where some of the best of regional and American artists are prominently featured. Meanwhile, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival offers audiences unique adaptations of the Bard’s most famous works. And for the outdoors lover, Ashland is also a great place to explore throughout the year. Take in the slopes at Mount Ashland for awesome opportunities for alpine sports, while the beautiful Lithia Park is a must visit in the summer. Here, splendid walking and biking trails, picnic sites, swimming areas, duck ponds, and even stunning Japanese-style gardens make for truly relaxing outings for the solo traveler and family alike.
One of the Pacific Northwest’s most naturally beautiful and culturally important centers, the “Beaver State” of Oregon is indeed one of America’s best destinations. With stunning mountain vistas, riverside tranquility, awesome ocean coastline, and of course plenty of unique Western charm, Oregon and its smaller towns are true gems for any visitor or inhabitant. From the covered bridges of Cottage Grove to the picturesque beauty of Hood River and the Columbia River Gorge, these cozy and wonderful small towns are true testaments to the splendor of Oregon. Do not wait any longer, hit the road and discover firsthand these awesome places only found in the USA.
