9 Best Small Towns in Oregon For A Weekend Escape
Known as “The Beaver State”, the beautiful State of Oregon is one of the great treasures of the famed Pacific Northwest. With its stunning natural surroundings and unique historic roots, any visitor to Oregon will surely discover firsthand why it remains one of the most fascinating places in America. Amongst the nation’s most geographically diverse places, the natural splendor is only rivalled by the charm and awe of many of its towns. Indeed whether one loves the outdoors or is seeking a cultural thrill, Oregon and its towns are always ready to welcome newcomers with a healthy dose of pure Americana.
Hood River
Situated within the stunning Columbia River Gorge, the most scenic town of Hood River is home to a population of just over 8,000 residents. Along the majestic Columbia River, an outdoor paradise can indeed be appreciated in Hood River and numerous activities like camping, hiking, cycling, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching are all popular.
A site of many beautiful waterfalls, the town is also framed by Mount Hood and the Mount Hood National Forest creating a most alluring mountainous atmosphere. And with a number of historic buildings and charming shops, museums, and restaurants, Hood River is truly a wondrous escape for anyone in the State of Oregon.
Astoria
Oregon’s oldest town, Astoria was founded back in 1811 and today is home to a population of just over 10,000 residents. Seat of Clatsop County the town is bordered by both the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean. Indeed spending time near the water is one of Astoria’s most popular activities and visitors and residents alike can always find a way to enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. Walk along the Astoria Riverwalk, a historic walkway along the Columbia River where relaxing views, cool breezes, and the smell of seafood all fill out the landscape.
Meanwhile the Astoria historic downtown district is too filled with much allure. Browse by numerous historic buildings or visit such interesting museums like the Oregon Film Museum and the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Add in an abundance of tasty restaurants and charming boutique stores and a day spent in this part of town is sure to be an amusing one.
Joseph
Founded in the 1880s and named for the famed Native American leader Chief Joseph, the small town of Joseph is home to a most modest population of just over 1,000 residents. Surrounded by the splendid peaks of the Wallowa Mountains, the town has even been nicknamed the “Little Switzerland of America”. Indeed for the adventurous mountain loving tourist, Joseph is an ideal stopover to enjoy the majesty of these lesser known mountains.
And with easy access to the nearby Wallowa Lake State Park, activities like hiking, canoeing, biking, and even horseback riding can be appreciated in a most serene and beautiful ambience. In addition a number of great restaurants, souvenir shops, local museums and the Wallowa County Farmers’ Market make an afternoon in Joseph always a pleasurable one.
Florence
Formally established in the 1890s, the modern town of Florence is now the home to just under 10,000 residents. Situated on Oregon’s west coast and along the Siuslaw River, this charming historic town is a beautiful place to spend time in. Indeed an old world charm permeates Florence, and a number of fascinating historic landmarks and great cultural events entertain tourists and residents alike. And of course with its vicinity to the Pacific Ocean, splendid natural vistas are always on hand.
Among the points of interest here include the Heceta Head Lighthouse, the Siuslaw River Bridge, and the Honeyman State Park, while the Old Town district has many spots listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Add in an assortment of delicious restaurants (where seafood is always a specialty), cute souvenir boutique shops, and the stunning Oregon Dunes Recreation Area, and a sojourn in Florence will surely not be forgotten.
Gold Beach
Seat of Curry County, the town of Gold Beach lies on the Oregon Coast and is just some 34 miles from the border with California. Home to a population of 2,341 residents, this charming town is situated at the junction of the Pacific Ocean and the beautiful Rogue River. Known for its cool climate and mild summers, visitors to Gold Beach will surely experience the beauty of nature first hand in a less crowded ambience. Indeed from the stunning Cape Sebastian Scenic Corridor to the imposing Kissing Rock, the views and beach side delights of the town make it a great place for a weekend excursion. In addition a number of cute shops, galleries, eateries, and charming old style buildings round out Gold Beach’s landscape, making it truly an Oregon stop one will want to return to.
Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach is another Oregon coastal town where nearly 1,500 people reside. Within Tillamook County, this charming sea side town boasts some seven miles of beautiful shoreline. At spots like the Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site some of the most beautiful panoramas and easy water access make Rockaway Beach truly seem like paradise. In addition seafood lovers will absolutely relish their time in town where a variety of great dining options can be found, many with specialties in fresh ocean food. Meanwhile in the historic district several fascinating buildings can be explored, while a ride on the charming Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad is surely one of the most memorable and scenic experiences one can have in the State.
Baker City
With a population of just over 10,000, Baker City is also known as the “Base Camp for Eastern Oregon”. Tracing its history back to the 1860s, the town was also a nearby stop for those travelling on the famed Oregon Trail and visitors can explore this important migratory history at several fascinating landmarks. These include the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and the Farwell Bend State Park where preserved wagon ruts can still be observed.
Meanwhile at the Baker Historic District several buildings on the National Register of Historic Places can be discovered including the Geiser Grand Hotel (1889), the Baker City Tower (1929), and the Baker Heritage Museum. And of course outdoor beauty can too be enjoyed here. Spend time at the nearby Snake River and the stunning Hells Canyon, where the majestic river gorge is a prime spot for activities like white water rafting and hiking.
Silverton
The town of Silverton is also known as “Oregon’s Garden City”, and is indeed a beautiful locale with plenty of natural and historic allure. Founded back in 1854 and now home to nearly 10,500 residents, visitors and inhabitants alike will always have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in Silverton. Amongst the most noteworthy attractions include the Oregon Garden, a sprawling complex where some 80 acres of stunning botanic splendor can be observed. But even time spent along the charming Silver Creek will guarantee serenity and relaxation, while a number of shops, restaurants, and cafes can all be found along the water’s edge. And with Silverton’s warm summers and mild winters, being outdoors can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Cottage Grove
Situated in Western Oregon’s Lane County, the town of Cottage Grove is also affectionately known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the West”. With six such bridges in the town’s vicinity, including five on the National Register of Historic Places, visitors can experience these most uniquely American structures in a most charming small town ambience. Indeed one can even take a relaxing bike ride past the bridges on the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway. Other points of interest in this town of just over 10,000 residents include the Oregon Aviation History Center and the Bohemia Gold Mining Museum. Meanwhile at the nearby Willamette and Umpqua National Forests stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, hot springs, and local wildlife all fill out the landscape for a most serene and memorable outdoor experience.
The great State of Oregon is an essential part of America’s Pacific Northwest, and any visitor passing through its charming towns will encounter first hand fascinating history, stunning natural surroundings, and warm hospitality. Also known as “The Beaver State”, Oregon is indeed one of the country’s most geographically diverse destinations, enhanced by its interesting historical roots and cultural attractions. For great weekend excursions, these Oregon towns offer optimal snapshots of why the State is so beloved and where nature, culture, and history all come together in a most extraordinary way.
