11 Little-Known Towns In Oregon

In Oregon, visitors can discover a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic culture. From the windswept coastline to the scenic Columbia River Gorge, small-town Oregon is a treasure trove of hidden gems. Explore quaint main streets lined with boutique shops and artisan eateries, hike through stunning landscapes, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. Come and uncover the secrets of small-town Oregon, where the pace is slow, the people are friendly, and the memories are unforgettable."

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a quiet, scenic town on Oregon’s northern Pacific coast. The town’s most iconic landmark is Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack that is home to numerous species of seabird and dominates the coastal landscape. Visit this monolithic giant and then explore the town’s nine miles of pristine sandy beaches that stretch into the hazy distance, with peaks of the Oregon Coast Range in the background. Just a short drive away is Ecola State Park, where visitors can enjoy spectacular hikes with views of both the Pacific Ocean and the towering Tillamook Head.

Downtown Cannon Beach is alluring, with a variety of independent businesses, including seafood restaurants, locally-owned cafes, boutique vintage shops, and watering holes. Public Coast Brewing Company is home to nearly 20 rotating taps including over a dozen styles of beer and soft drinks like their homemade cream and blueberry sodas. For a town of roughly 1,500 people, Cannon Beach is a surprisingly art-dense little hamlet. The town contains more than half a dozen galleries, including Icefire Glassworks, where visitors can watch artisans blow glass in real-time, while staff are happy to answer any questions about the process. To glimpse Cannon Beach’s history, head to the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum, and learn about the region’s rich history and its role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Joseph

Joseph is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs, located at the base of the stunning Wallowa Mountains in northeastern Oregon. The centerpiece of Joseph is the Wallowa Lake, an idyllic, reflective mountain lake that helped inspire the region’s nickname, the Little Switzerland of America. The verdant meadows, pine forests, and snow-capped mountains are so serene that the area surrounding Joseph was the site of a proposed National Park. Wallowa Lake State Park is an enviable outdoor escape, containing designated swimming areas and hiking trails as well as campsites for tent or RV camping and even some cabins and yurts for rent.

Don't overlook Joseph’s enchanting downtown area. Main Street is home to the town’s art walk, a series of large-scale bronze sculptures depicting significant characters and symbols of the town’s past. These sculptures were facilitated by Valley Bronze of Oregon, a Joseph bronze foundry that opened in 1982. History enthusiasts can visit the Joseph Branch Railroad Museum, which celebrates the town’s history as a rail hub for the region. Visitors can also learn about the Native American tribes of the area at the Nez Perce National Historical Park, located just outside of town.

Bandon

Bandon has impressive sea stacks and pristine beaches. It is a great spot for beachcombing and sunset photography, and in the summer it is the site of one of Oregon’s most unique public art displays, Circles in the Sand. The project was started by labyrinth artist Denny Dyke, and each display is created by a collective of artists working in full view of the public to create ephemeral, walkable mazes in the sand augmented with beautiful design flourishes. Each work lasts only until the next high tide.

This Oregon town is also a destination for recreationalists. Located just a few miles north of Bandon, Whiskey Run Mountain Bike Trails offers more than 10 miles of planned and landscaped mountain bike terrain for a range of riders. The Bandon Dunes Golf Resort attracts golfers from around the world with its world-class courses overlooking the ocean.

The town also has a fascinating past, visible in its historic Bandon Old Town, where Victorian-style buildings line the streets. For a dose of history, visit the Bandon Historical Society Museum, which highlights the town's role in the logging and fishing industries.

The Dalles

The Dalles is an inland port city along the Columbia River, vital as a commercial hub and rich with history. A must-visit spot is the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum, which explores the region’s geological history, Native American heritage, and role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Indigenous tribes like the Wyams, Teninos, Wascos, traded goods with European settlers here centuries ago. From there, visitors can take a short drive to Rowena Crest Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the nearby Deschutes River State Recreation Area for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Astoria

Another town along the banks of the Columbia River, Astoria is one of Oregon’s oldest towns. It is a place where history, culture, and nature intersect. The Astoria Column, a towering 125-foot monument, offers sweeping views of the Columbia River, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding hills. Visitors can learn about the area's maritime history at the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Astoria’s historic district is filled with charming Victorian buildings, and the town is home to a vibrant arts community, the Riversea Gallery exhibits a diverse array of local sculpture, ceramics, and paintings. For a taste of local life, head to Burgerville for a meal made with fresh, regional ingredients.

Brookings

Along the southern Oregon coast, Brookings is has beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Just north of the Oregon-California border, Brookings boasts a variety of outdoor activities, like tide pooling at Samuel H. Boardman State Park or hiking along the Redwood National and State Parks. A hidden gem in the area is Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint, where visitors can enjoy dramatic ocean views and explore the coastline. Brookings is also home to the Chetco River, a popular spot for salmon fishing, and the Azalea Park, which features beautiful gardens and a historic gazebo.

La Grande

La Grande, found in the heart of the Grande Ronde Valley, is a vibrant town surrounded by the Wallowa Mountains. Known for its stunning natural surroundings and outdoor recreation, La Grande offers numerous hiking and camping opportunities in the nearby Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. History lovers will enjoy the Union County Museum, which showcases the area’s pioneer past and the history of the local indigenous Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde.

The town also boasts a thriving arts scene, with Arts Center East running three galleries, Main Gallery, Orlaske Gallery, and Gift Gallery, that highlight work from artists in the Pacific Northwest, and additionally they offer classes for artists seeking to expand their palette of skills. For those seeking a relaxing outdoor experience, the Hot Lake Springs offers a historic hot spring resort where visitors can unwind in mineral-rich waters.

Silverton

Visitors looking for a gateway to Oregon’s natural beauty should look no further than Silverton. One of the town's top attractions is Silver Falls State Park, which features a collection of breathtaking waterfalls, including the famous 177-foot South Falls. The park is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and photography. The falls make for a compelling scenery.

Silverton itself is home to the Oregon Garden, an 80-acre botanical garden that showcases the diversity of Oregon’s flora. And visitors can learn about the area's past at the Silverton Country Historical Society Museum.

Cottage Grove

Known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon," Cottage Grove is home to a number of historic, covered bridges, including the Bohemia Bridge and the Dorena Covered Bridge. Both landmarks date back to the early 20th century.

Visitors can also explore the Cottage Grove History Museum to learn more about the town's logging past; the town is in the heart of Oregon’s logging country. For outdoor enthusiasts, Dorena Lake offers fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities in a picturesque setting. The town is also home to the Cottage Grove Reservoir, ideal for a day of relaxing by the water.

Hood River

Hood River, Oregon, is a charming town nestled in the Columbia River Gorge. Hood River has world-class windsurfing and kiteboarding opportunities and a thriving, craft beer scene. The town's unique geography, with the Columbia River flowing through it, creates a wind tunnel effect that makes it an ideal spot for windsurfers and kiteboarders. Visitors from around the world flock to Hood River to take advantage of the consistent winds and scenic beauty. After a day on the water, visitors can sample some of the town's renowned craft beers at one of the many local breweries, such as Full Sail Brewing or Double Mountain Brewery.

Conclusion

Oregon’s lesser-known towns, with their rich histories and stunning natural landscapes, provide countless opportunities for exploration. From the charming coastal communities of Cannon Beach and Bandon to the scenic mountain views in La Grande and Joseph, these towns offer something for every traveler. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in history, explore the great outdoors, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of a small town, Oregon’s hidden gems are ready to welcome you.