8 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Oregon
Oregon is located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The state has dramatic landscapes, from the rugged Pacific coastline to the volcanic peaks of the Cascade Range, including Mount Hood. The Columbia River delineates much of Oregon's northern boundary with Washington state, while the Snake River marks much of its eastern boundary with Idaho. Hidden within this scenery are breathtakingly beautiful small towns, each distinct in its geographical and cultural features.
The possibilities are endless, whether the lovely Mount Ashland in Ashland or the sandy beaches in Cannon Beach.
Ashland
Ashland, Oregon, is in the Rogue Valley near the Siskiyou and Cascade mountain ranges. The town was initially established in the mid-19th century during the expansion into the western United States. It is known for its mineral springs, similar to those found in the spa town of Baden-Baden, Germany. However, it's the performing arts that transformed Ashland into a cultural hub. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is one of the oldest and largest professional non-profit theatres in the United States. Established in 1935, it has a wide range of Shakespearean and contemporary theater performances from February through October, drawing enthusiasts globally.
Lithia Park, stretching over 93 acres, is the jewel of Ashland’s park system. It features Japanese gardens, duck ponds, and miles of walking trails with lush foliage. Nearby, Mount Ashland is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking or mountain biking in the summer. Even those who just glimpse Mount Ashland rejoice as it is the highest peak in the Siskiyou Mountains, with an elevation of 7,500 feet.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is located on the northern Oregon coast and is named after a cannon from the U.S. Navy schooner Shark, which washed ashore in 1846. The town's history is deeply entwined with the lore of maritime explorations and shipwrecks. It became a seaside resort in the early 20th century and is known today for its arts scene and coastal charm.
Upon arrival, Haystack Rock is an essential stop for any visitor. Accessible at low tide, this massive sea stack is home to colorful tide pools and diverse birdlife, including puffins. Thus, along with a great photo spot, it is an excellent opportunity for environmental education and close-up encounters with marine life. Another nearby hotspot is Ecola State Park, which has rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and a dense rainforest. The park's trails have views of the ocean, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, and, on clear days, the distant shores of Washington. Speaking of which, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, also known as "Terrible Tilly," sits isolated on a rock outcropping about a mile offshore. While it is not accessible to the public, the lighthouse offers a rustic shadow of visibility from the park.
Florence
Florence, Oregon, is a coastal town at the mouth of the Siuslaw River along the Pacific Ocean. It historically served as a hub for logging and fishing, and its location influenced its establishment in the 19th century. Over the years, Florence became a popular destination for outdoor activities and retirement, mixing natural attractions with community amenities.
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, one of the world's largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes, can be explored via hiking, dune buggy rides, or horseback. The natural sand formations stretch for miles along the coast, offering a memorable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. For another unique experience, Darlingtonia State Natural Site is dedicated to preserving the Darlingtonia californica, also known as the cobra lily. This rare carnivorous plant is native to the area, and the site has a boardwalk that meanders through the habitat. Back in town, one can visit the Siuslaw River Bridge, a beautiful art decor structure designed by Conde McCullough and completed in 1936. It is a central structure in Florence, connecting the city across the Siuslaw River and offering ocean views, especially at sunset.
Newport
Newport is a town on the central Oregon Coast, with a historic bayfront and diverse marine habitats. Established in the 1860s and officially incorporated in 1882, Newport has long been a major fishing and shipping port. The town's lighthouses underscore its maritime heritage and importance in aiding naval navigation along the hazardous Pacific Northwest coastline.
The Oregon Coast Aquarium has educational exhibits that include local marine species, aviary encounters, and interactive displays. Known for its former resident, Keiko, the orca from "Free Willy," the aquarium educates visitors on the diverse marine life of the Pacific Northwest. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is notable for its historic lighthouse—the tallest on the Oregon coast—and its accessible tide pools, where visitors can observe sea stars, anemones, and crabs. Last but not least, Devil's Punchbowl State Natural Area is a geological formation created by the collapse of two sea caves that formed a large bowl shape. It is an excellent location for viewing ocean surges and exploring the surrounding tide pools.
Seaside
Seaside is a coastal town on the northern Oregon coast at the end of the historic Lewis and Clark Trail. The town's tourism roots go back to the 1870s when it began as a summer resort. By the early 20th century, Seaside had become a getaway spot due to its accessibility from Portland, which was enhanced by the railroad's arrival and, later, the highway.
The Promenade, affectionately known as the "Prom," is a 1.5-mile-long boardwalk along Seaside's beach. It's perfect for strolls, jogging, and sunset views. Nearby, the Lewis and Clark Salt Works is a historical site where expedition members boiled seawater to make salt, essential for preserving food for their return journey. This site is part of the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park and shows visitors the hardships and ingenuity of the explorers. Those who want to head out to the coast can visit Tillamook Head, a promontory that juts into the ocean and has rugged trails and the lighthouse on Tillamook Rock.
Silverton
Silverton is a town in the Willamette Valley. Founded in the 1850s, its growth was influenced by the timber industry and agriculture, which remain essential to the local economy. The town is often praised for its well-preserved downtown area, which features murals and buildings dating back to the early 20th century. To this end, history enthusiasts adore landmarks such as the Gordon House. Designed by the celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright, it is a Usonian house that exemplifies Wright’s philosophy of building in harmony with the environment. Guided tours provide insight into his architectural style and principles.
Meanwhile, nature enthusiasts opt for Silver Falls State Park, which has over 9,000 acres of woodland, crowned by the famous Trail of Ten Falls. This trail lets hikers discover a series of waterfalls that cascade into canyons. There is a chance to walk behind some of the falls, an authentic Pacific Northwest experience. Oregon Garden, another highlight, has 80 acres of botanical landscapes and more than 20 specialty gardens, including a water garden, a rose garden, and a children’s garden. The attraction includes educational programs and a garden market.
Yachats
Yachats, Oregon, is a small town between the Coast Range's forested mountains and the Pacific Ocean's vistas. The name "Yachats" originates from a Native American language, meaning "dark waters at the foot of the mountain"—a nod to the town's geographic setting. Yachats has a history that includes its time as a significant site for the Alsea Native American tribe.
Those here for the scenery rejoice at the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, which has views of the Oregon Coast and is the highest point accessible by car on the coast. The area includes a network of hiking trails through coastal rainforests, including the Thor's Well, often called a "sinkhole in the ocean." This natural wonder appears to drain the surrounding sea, creating a spectacle best viewed at high tide or during stormy weather when the water's spray and sound amplify its mystique. Just south of Thor's Well, visitors can find Devil's Churn, a long, narrow inlet where waves crash powerfully into the basalt. This site is particularly ideal for photo opportunities.
Sunriver
Sunriver, Oregon, is a planned residential and resort community set in the high desert of Central Oregon, near the base of the Cascade Range. Established in the late 1960s on the grounds of the former Camp Abbott, a World War II army training facility, Sunriver was designed to blend with its natural surroundings, incorporating local landscape elements into its layout and architecture.
The Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory shows the local flora and fauna through interactive exhibits and live animal displays. The adjacent observatory enhances the experience with state-of-the-art telescopes for stargazing and educational programs about astronomy. The High Desert Museum informs visitors on the cultural history and natural environment of the high desert region. Exhibits feature live wildlife, historical artifacts, and art. For an adventurous outing, the Lava River Cave in the nearby Newberry National Volcanic Monument invites visitors to hike through Oregon’s longest lava tube. The cave, formed by flowing lava over 80,000 years ago, is an exploration of volcanic geology.
In Summary
Oregon's breathtaking small towns epitomize the diverse geography of the Pacific Northwest. From Ashland's artistic vibrancy and Shakespearean roots to the seaside charm of Cannon Beach with its iconic Haystack Rock, these towns have cultural and natural beauty. Florence is a gateway to the expansive Oregon Dunes, while Newport is a deep dive into marine science and maritime history. Each town provides a distinct slice of Oregon's beauty, making them ideal destinations for those seeking relaxation and adventure in picturesque settings.
