Oregon has one of the most stunning stretches of the Pacific Coast, USA. Here you will find stunning natural attractions including sea stacks and sea arches, a rocky coastline often covered in fog, sand dunes that rise high into the air, pretty coastal towns, and historic lighthouses.

The coast is divided into three parts: northern Oregon coast, central Oregon, and southern Oregon. The drive the total length of the coastline from Astoria to Brookings along the Highway 101 takes 8 hours without stopping. Add in the many attractions and scenic spots, and we recommend devoting 5 to 7 days for this road trip.   

Fun fact: it’s time to hit the Oregon coast! Did you know that Oregon has nearly 362 miles of coastline? 

Or you can also split this road trip into small trips and see a section of the coast over a long weekend. It is really hard to pick the best area of the Oregon Coast, rest assured, whichever part you visit you are certain to fall in love with the amazing scenery here. 

If you plan to visit other Oregon attractions including Crater Lake, Columbia River Gorge area, Mount Hood, and the Cascades, then read our Best of Oregon Road Trip Planner which takes you through central and southern Oregon.

To explore all the attractions in the Beaver State, read Best Places to Visit in Oregon. 

Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Oregon Coast means endless adventure. Whether you want to go sea kayaking or horseback riding on the beach or ATV riding up and down the sand dunes, Oregon Coast has it all. From fishing to crabbing and clamming and from hiking to birding and biking, there are plenty of fun things to do along the Oregon Coast. 

Here are our favorite spots along the coast of Oregon that you must visit on the ultimate Highway 101 road trip. 

Northern Oregon Coast Attractions

The North Coast of Oregon is considered to extend from Astoria to Neskowin. Here you will find lots of history and architecture. It is also the most popular part of the coast, easily accessible from Portland and its suburbs. 

Portland

While Portland is not located on the coast, it is a great starting point for your Coastal Oregon road trip since it is easy to fly to Portland and rent a car. 

Portland is also an amazing city to visit. It is famous for its hipster vibe and millennial population. The city has everything from museums, parks and gardens, eclectic shopping, vibrant neighborhoods, and a legendary culinary scene. If you do happen to fly into Portland, we recommend spending at least a day or two here to experience its unique culture. 

Related: Best Things to do in Portland, Oregon

Astoria

Astoria was the first American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. It is also the oldest city in the state of Oregon and has plenty of historical attractions. Astoria is also popular among the movie buffs. The town was the main setting for the 1985’s cult classic, The Goonies. 

Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, this port city provides ample opportunities for fishing, sailing, kayaking, and more. Make sure to climb up the Astoria Column for a panoramic view encompassing the city, rivers, the Pacific Ocean, and several Cascade Mountain peaks. Drive through the 4-mile Megler Bridge, North America’s longest truss bridge. 

A great way to explore the town is to hop on Astoria’s Riverfront Trolley tour. This 3-mile heritage streetcar line runs all along the waterfront full of restaurants, docks, and piers. The trolley operates every day between March and September and costs $1 for a round-trip, or $2 for all-day on/off. 

After a day of exploration and water activities, enjoy fresh seafood at the cannery boatyard on the Astoria riverfront, Bridgewater Bistro. 

Lewis and Clark National Historic Park

Live an adventure in history as you navigate through the pine forests and coastal vistas at Lewis and Clark National Historic Park. The historic park was established to commemorate the completion of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 

On the expedition, the explorers were tasked with exploring and surveying the land that the United States had recently acquired through Louisiana Purchase. The park encompasses a total of 12 sites along 40 miles of the Pacific coast.

At the park, visitors can follow in the footsteps of the voyagers. Commence your journey at Fort Clatsop, a replica of the fort where the Corps of Discovery found shelter in the winter of 1805-1806. Continue by hiking the 6.5-mile one-way Fort to Sea Trail, and visit the Salt Works, the site where the Lewis and Clark expedition set up a camp to obtain salt for use at Fort Clatsop. 

During the peak season, summer, you may be lucky enough to witness some costumed demonstrations such as muzzleloading and shooting, hide tanning and candle making. Good news for those traveling with children – the park organizes various activities to keep the little ones engaged.

Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park is a 4,300-acre park along the Oregon Coast. Originally a historic military defense installation on the shores of the Columbia River, Fort Stevens, is the main highlight of the park. 

Fort Stevens was in use for 84 years, from the Civil War Era to World War II. While Fort Stevens is what makes this park unique, it is not the only attraction to see.

Visit the Peter Iredale shipwreck, the little that remains of a 275-foot-long sailing vessel that ran ashore in 1906. The shipwreck can be accessed via hiking the 0.4 miles moderately trafficked Peter Iredale Trail. Or swim in Coffenbury Lake, which can be accessed through 2.5 miles Coffenbury Lake Loop Hike. 

The other smaller lakes in the park are popular for canoeing and fishing. In total, the park has 6 paved trails suitable for biking and 6 unpaved trails for hiking. There are camping and picnic areas available throughout the park.

Seaside

Located on the Oregon Coast, Seaside is about one and a half-hour drive away from Portland. The resort town is highly popular among families and has multiple shops, art galleries, surf shops, and fine dining establishments for a relaxing urban beach getaway. 

Spend a day on the sandy beach or relive childhood memories by playing vintage arcade games at Funland Seaside Arcade. The entertainment center has been part of Seaside’s history since 1929 and is a favorite with locals.

Seaside’s 1.5-mile oceanfront promenade, popularly called the Prom, is a must-visit for those visiting the town for the first time. This historic promenade was built in the 1920s and is a great way to enjoy the coast. Take a romantic walk along the promenade at night. 

In the summer season, it’s common to find weekly farmer’s market, art gallery walks, seasonal holiday celebrations and fireworks on Memorial Day and the 4th of July, vintage car shows, and sandcastle competitions happening in Seaside.

Tillamook Head Trail & Tillamook Rock Lighthouse

At the south end of Seaside, at the end of Sunset Boulevard, visitors will find the Tillamook Head Trailhead. The hike is about 6-miles long through beautiful muddy forests with some ocean views along the way. 

Wear comfortable boots and take your time exploring and admiring the coast on the trail. You can even see the WWII era bunkers in the area while hiking. Stop for lunch in one of the picnic areas to admire the scenery and recharge by spending time in nature. 

On approaching the Hikers Camp at the end of this trail, visitors are greeted with an epic view of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. The light was called ‘Terrible Tilly’ by locals due to extreme weather conditions near the light and the dangerous path traversed by the lighthouse keepers to reach it. 

The light sits on top of a sea stack of basalt called the Tillamook Rock. It rises nearly 100 feet from the sea. The lighthouse was operational from 1881 to 1957 and was deactivated due to damage and erosion during severe storms.

Ecola State Park

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is one of the most romantic destinations in the country. This popular tourist resort is located on the Pacific Northwest Coast of Oregon. Cannon Beach is 80 miles west of Portland and 25 miles south of Astoria. 

It is home to 4 miles of pristine beach and the famous Haystack Rock, as well as beautiful parks, including the Ecola State Park. Everything in Cannon Beach is pretty close, given the small size of the town. Therefore, the downtown and surrounding area are perfect to explore on foot. 

Enjoy a quality cup of coffee accompanied by a pastry at Sleepy Monk Roasters. Visit the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum for an educational afternoon and see the cannon that gave this sleepy coastal town its name. 

Spend a romantic evening on the beach as you watch a glorious Pacific Northwest sunset. On weekends, there are live glass blowing demonstrations taking place at the Icefire Glassworks using the well-known technique invented during the 1st century BC.

Hug Point State Recreation Site

Your next stop on the Oregon Coast Road Trip is located just 5 miles south of Cannon Beach. Here travelers can find another wonderful beach hugging the cape and the coast. Visitors often think that this beautiful setting earns the area its name, Hug Point. 

However, there is a far more interesting story behind the name. Before the Pacific Coast Highway – Oregon Highway 101 was built – the stagecoach was the only way to travel via the coast. The pioneers had to travel on the beach in their stagecoaches and hug the point sticking out on the coast to get around it safely. Hence, the name. 

There are many hikes in the recreation area and visitors can even see the historic stagecoach ruts in the park. At low tide, you can get behind the point to a small waterfall as well as explore sea caves. Another popular low tide activity is tide-pooling. To find the times of high and low tides, check here.

Oswald West State Park

Over overshadowed by the more popular Ecola State Park and the scenic Three Capes area, Oswald West State Park is a spectacular 2,484-acre park along the Oregon Coast. The park comprises 4 miles of coastline as well as a temperate rainforest. 

Its highlight is the secluded Short Sand Beach, popularly called Shorty. The trail is just half a mile long and takes visitors through a rainforest, under Highway 101, along stunning coastal views to the beach. 

The state park also has several other trails including the Oregon Coast Trail which stretches through the entire park. This trail is recommended only for experienced hikers. Families prefer to spend a day at Shorty. This cove is picture-perfect for surfing, picnics, relaxation, and tide-pooling for the little sea creatures.

For those with more energy and time, points of interest include Cape Falcon and the Devil’s Cauldron. Beware that the short trail to Devil’s Cauldron gets rocky, uneven, very steep, and often muddy, though the views are totally worth it.

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

While this is a primarily road trip itinerary along the Oregon Coast, we aren’t ones to shy away from a scenic railroad ride when one beckons!

Visitors can embark on the heritage steam railroad and relive Oregon’s history while on the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. The primary mission of the railroad excursions along the coast is to revive the legacy of steam railroads and teach visitors about their importance in the development of Tillamook County. 

During summer, there are regular trips between Rockaway Beach and Garibaldi. This relaxing trip winds through Tillamook Bay and the Oregon Coast. The track winds up through thick forests along the Nehalem River and offers amazing views of the Pacific Coast. The beautiful views from the train are enjoyed by adults and children alike.

The prices are $22 for adults and $15 for children (3-12 years old) for a round trip. Feel free to explore Garibaldi once you get off the train – just ensure you don’t miss the last train back to Rockaway Beach. The railroad also offers occasional special event trains throughout the year.

The attraction is most enjoyable when it is warm and sunny outside, although there is a choice of an enclosed car to ride in too. In summer the tickets sell out fast, so we recommend booking online well in advance of your trip.

Rockaway Beach

The city of Rockaway Beach is a great place to check out on the Oregon Coast. The namesake Rockaway Beach is the most famous area attraction. This long sandy beach between the Coast Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean is as close as travelers can get to Twin Rocks without stepping off the land. Bring a camera to capture these unique and massive geological wonders. 

The Twin Rocks are one of the most well-known Oregon Coast rock outcroppings after Haystack Rock. The rocks are over 100 feet high and look spectacular at sunset. While it is hard to imagine now, the two rocks were formed 20 to 30 million years ago as one huge ridge structure. 

Over time, erosion separated the two rocks and also created the 35 feet arch in the leftmost rock. The rocks are incredibly romantic at sunset certainly and you can often see couples walking hand in hand and lovers professing their love as they gaze at the horizon.

There are many options for accommodations, restaurants, and shopping along the 7-mile shoreline of Rockaway Beach. Rockaway Beach City also hosts many events and festivals, including the annual July 4th celebration, the Pirate Festival early in the summer, and Kite and Art Festival in August. 

Garibaldi

Another cozy town sitting at the northern end of Tillamook Bay, Garibaldi, is home to 760-feet-long Pier’s End. This is the longest pier in Oregon and a beautiful dock to enjoy the Oregon Coast. 

Garibaldi treats its visitors with a relaxed beachy vibe and beautiful views. And don’t forget the fresh seafood! You can either dine out at a restaurant – try the famous ‘Fish Peddler @ Pacific Oyster’ in nearby Bay City or SOURCE Oyster and Wine Bar in garibaldi. Or visit the local seafood market, the Garibaldi Cannery, located in the port to buy fresh seafood to cook for yourself.

While many visitors are drawn to this town for fishing, crabbing, and clamming, Garibaldi is also home to the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad depot and the Garibaldi Maritime Museum, where you can learn the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest. 

There is a little motel and RV park right on the port of Garibaldi, Harborview Inn & RV Park. An overnight stay here is a good opportunity to unwind and relax before continuing the journey.

Tillamook Creamery

It would be a crime to not pass by the Tillamook Creamery once you’re in the Tillamook area. The Tillamook Creamery is an essential Coastal Oregon road trip stop for foodies! This coop dairy is one of the largest in the country and the famous Tillamook Cheese is a household name. Apart from cheese, the dairy also produces yogurt, butter, and ice-creams. 

This dairy lovers’ paradise offers an opportunity for self-guided interactive tours with educational videos and multiple kiosks. Best part? The tours are free! There are viewing windows from where visitors can directly observe the art of cheese making.

On a visit to the creamery, you can sample the world-famous cheese. There is also a café selling creamy Tillamook ice cream and other snacks such as grilled cheese sandwich, mac n cheese, artisan pizzas, salads, as well as Northwest brews and wine. 

Have long been waiting to spoil yourself with a wine and cheese session? This is a perfect chance!

Three Capes Scenic Loop

Oregon’s Three Capes Scenic Loop is one of the reasons you go on this road trip, one of the reasons you take a detour from the famous Highway 101. Located on the Tillamook Coast of Central Oregon, the scenic drive is all about slow travel, about savoring the views.

From downtown Tillamook, visitors can follow an epic 40-mile route northwest along the shoreline. You can enjoy many highlights and hidden attractions along the way as you drive around the 3 capes: Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda.

Cape Meares Lighthouse and State Scenic Viewpoint

Your first stop, the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, rests over 200 feet above the ocean. From here, visitors can enjoy great views of the largest colony of nesting common murres. Bring along a pair of binoculars to see them up close. You might also spot other seabirds and even bald eagles. 

The Cape Meares area also has several hiking trails. The trails will take you along vertical sea cliffs, perched high above the ocean, and through forests of giant Sitka spruce and hemlock trees.

Drive over to the 38 feet tall Cape Meares Lighthouse. Built-in 1889 on the steep cliff, the short light is charming and open to visitors for a free tour from April to October. Next to the parking lot, you will find the famous Octopus tree with its tentacle-like branches. The tree is over 200 years old, 50 feet wide, and a historic landmark. Cape Meares is also home to the National Wildlife Refuge, definitely worth visiting if time permits.

Cape Lookout State Park

Cape Lookout State Park, a nearly two-mile oceanfront promontory that juts out into the Pacific, is your next stop. At the park, you will find spectacular geological formations, Oregon Coast native flora and fauna, and impressive views of the Pacific Ocean. 

Spend a day at the beach or hike to a waterfall. Fish along the Wilson River or walk on the sandspit in Netarts Bay. Camp in the state park or rent one of the yurts. Go beachcombing for glass floats or hike through old-growth forests. The opportunities at Cape Lookout State Park are too many to count. 

Hike the easy 2.5-mile Cape Lookout Trail. This trail is popular with visitors – it winds through the Sitka spruce forest and takes you to the Cape Lookout headland. From here you can spot whales, see sunsets, and enjoy views of Neahkahnie Mountain. You can also spot Cape Kiwanda in the distance.

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area 

The southernmost of the three capes and also the smallest, Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area doesn’t have many hiking trails. Most visitors hike the 2.2 miles Cape Kiwanda Loop for a walk along the coast. However, it does have a huge sand dune, which makes it no less unique than the other two capes. 

With a little bit of effort, visitors can climb up the 250 feet high Cape Kiwanda dune to observe miles of the ocean and even Cape Lookout in the north. Make sure to stay within fenced areas as it can be really dangerous.

Cape Kiwanda is also famous for its huge crashing waves that pound the sandstone escarpment. From the cape, you can spot Oregon’s second Haystack Rock, located close to Pacific City. It is said that the rock has protected the cape from erosion by the waves and helped retain its shape. 

We also recommend spending time at the beach in Cape Kiwanda. You can watch the unique dory boats being launched into the ocean. 

Pacific City

Pacific City is a sleepy beachfront town that is perfect for outdoor adventures. The shore near Pacific City in Tillamook County is lined by capes, sandy spits, and rivers flowing into protected bays. The Oregon Coast here has a wild feel. Even the Oregon Pacific Coast Highway 101 curves inland here.From the beach, you have great views of Oregon’s second haystack rock.

Visitors can enjoy exploring tide pools, hiking along the coast, whaling, and birding at the Bob Straub State Park. For a unique experience, go horse riding on the beach or ATV riding at Sand Lake Recreation Area. The Nestucca Bay Refuge, located just off Highway 101, is another popular destination to spot wildlife. 

Even if you don’t like spending much time outdoors, Pacific City makes a great road trip stop. This is the perfect family beach vacation destination. You can go shopping, dining, check out the local Pelican Brewery, and other bars and grills.

Central Oregon Coast Attractions

The area of Oregon Coast from Lincoln City to Florence is considered as the Central Coast. Here the coastline turns quite rocky and wild compared to the north coast. This area is known for its stunning natural rock formations and natural phenomenon such as Thor’s Well and Spouting Horn. Because of its rocky shape, this area also has some of the most historic and powerful lighthouses along the coast. 

God’s Thumb

Located near Lincoln City, God’s Thumb is a unique shoreline formation. The coast here is shaped like a giant thumbs up sign. This is still one of Oregon’s coastal secrets and not known by many people. Hiking to the basalt peak for sweeping views of Lincoln City, Cascade Head, and the Pacific Ocean is popular with the locals.

There are two routes up God’s Thumb: both start at Road’s End State Recreation Area and are unmarked. On both you will encounter dramatic views, rocky cliffs, beaches, and wildflowers. The more popular and scenic option is the 4.4-mile Knoll loop. It takes visitors over forested lands and grassy meadows before suddenly following the ridgeline to the peak. 

The shorter alternative is the 3.4 miles out-and-back trail. This trail is less challenging, has gradual inclines and is good for families with kids. The best time to hike to God’s Thumb is from March through September.

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area has an intriguing geology. The Devil’s Punch Bowl is a large hollow rock formation that was probably created from the collapse of roofs of two sea caves due to wave action. Here you can watch waves from the Pacific Ocean waves swirl and froth as it bellows inside the punchbowl.

There are many things to do in the natural area. Visitors come to spot the wave action, birdwatch, whale watch, tidepool, and even surf. Many picnic tables are located here with a beautiful view of the shore.

To reach the punchbowl, hike the 1.8-mile trail from the parking lot. It is not safe to go inside the punchbowl except at low tide and generally, we recommend viewing the wave action from a safe distance. 

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

A must stop for bird watching and tide pooling, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is one of the best places to visit on the Oregon Coast. The rocky basalt beaches like Cobble Beach are perfect to spot sea stars, crabs, sea urchins, sea anemones, and other colorful intertidal life at low tide.

A highlight of the natural area is the 92-feet tall Yaquina Head Lighthouse, the tallest in Oregon. The charming lighthouse was built in 1873 and is still operational. Visitors can climb up the 114 steps to the top on a self-guided tour. 

At the Yaquina Head Interpretive Center, you can learn about the cultural history and marine life along this part of Oregon. There are several informative displays at the center. Other attractions include hiking, spotting nesting colonies of seabirds, and watching the gray whales migrating to Alaska.

Newport

Your next stop south on your Oregon coast road trip should be Newport. This charming coastal city has everything from museums, the Yaquina lighthouses, aquariums, eclectic shopping, and eateries serving delicious seafood. Newport is home to numerous attractions and outdoor activities.

Begin your visit at the Newport Historic Bayfront. While it is smelly and loud, it does have stunning views of the Yaquina Bay. Another must is the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Here kids can see sea turtles, sharks, sea lions, and other marine life of the Pacific Northwest.

See the weird museums in town including Ripley’s Believe It or Not or the Wax Works museum. Seafood lovers must visit Chowder Bowl located at Nye Beach. This eatery is famous for its award-winning chowder and local cuisine.

The Hatfield Marine Science Centre is a favorite of ocean enthusiasts. To enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and kayaking, visit South Beach State Park. The Newport Farmer’s Market that takes place on Saturdays is a great place to shop local produce and artisan goods.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Located within Siuslaw National Forest, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area protects a large part of Oregon Coast. Here you will find abundant marine life, a rainforest, miles of hiking trails, pretty beaches, sea caves, rock formations, and tide pools.

Stop at the Visitor Centre deck to enjoy postcard perfect views of the surrounding rainforest, rocky coastline, and turbulent waves of the Pacific Ocean. Drive up to the Cape Perpetua Lookout and enjoy the vistas. 

Cape Perpetua is also home to the famous Thor’s Well. This is a sinkhole on the coast which appears to engulf waves. It looks most spectacular at high tide when the waves disappear down the formation. Another interesting geological formation is the Spouting Horn at Cook’s Chasm. This looks eerily like a whale spouting water at high tide. 

To make the most of your trip to Cape Perpetua, visit at low tide since most formations and trails are dangerous and often inaccessible at high tide. 

Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint

A half mile trail to the top of Heceta Head leads visitors to the iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse, the most beautiful lighthouse in Oregon. It also bears the distinction of being the most photographed lighthouse in Oregon.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse including the ground floor with a park ranger. While visitors are not allowed on upper levels, a hiking trail near the lighthouse leads you to a good viewpoint of the lens. For a romantic option, experience the life of a lightkeeper by booking a night stay at the Light Keeper’s House. This has stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the beach.

Wildlife watching is one of the highlights of Heceta Head. Here you can not only spot migrating whales and sea lions but also land birds, nesting seabirds, and the magnificent Roosevelt Elk. You can also take the mile long trail to Hobbit Beach, a nice sheltered beach with pretty views. 

Florence

Located just off Pacific Coast Highway 101, Florence is a must visit on a Coastal Oregon road trip. The city is located at the mouth of Siuslaw River and has a plethora of natural attractions including lakes, coastal bluffs, beaches, and sand dunes.

The Oregon Coast Military Museum is located in Florence. Here visitors can learn about American contributions to WWI, WWII, and also know more about the Vietnam War, Korea War, and the work of the Coast Guards. You can see actual war items donated by Oregon veterans including guns, swords, documents, photographs, and more. 

Take a photo of the historical Siuslaw River Bridge located right on Oregon Highway 101. The bridge has beautiful Art Deco style architecture and Gothic arches. It is one of the iconic bridges on the Oregon Coast. 

After checking out the bridge, venture into Historic Old Town Florence. Visit the art galleries and unique shops. Don’t forget to watch the sea lions lounging around at the Sea Lion Cave, the largest sea cave in America.

Southern Oregon Coast Attractions

The southern coast of Oregon extends all the way from the Oregon dunes to Brookings in the south. Here the water looks turquoise more frequently than in other parts and teh landscapes are just striking and dramatic. All the way south near the California border, you will also find the largest stands of coastal redwoods in Oregon. 

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, located in the Siuslaw Forest, is one of the best places to visit in Oregon. The sand dunes are sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and a temperate forest. They look magical and enchanting as they easily tower about 500 feet above sea level. 

The sand dunes were formed by the blowing winds and continue to be sculpted every year. The dunes stretch for a very long part of the coast and the most popular areas for road trippers include the South Jetty Area or Oregon Dunes Day Use Area.  

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Popular activities here ATV riding, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, bird watching, sand boarding, and camping. There are enough activities to keep visitors of all ages happy.

Popular hiking trails include the Lagoon Loop Trail and the Oregon Dunes Overlook Trail. Along with ATVs, you can also rent dirt bikes, sand buggies, or go horse riding to explore the majestic sand dunes. 

Coos Bay

As you head south from the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Your next stop should be Coos Bay. Coos Bay is one of our favorite destinations on the Oregon Coast road trip primarily because of the beautiful sunsets and scenic beauty that it offers. 

This outdoor paradise is close to the southern entrance to the dunes but is also adorned by beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs, and a stunning wilderness. From the coast of Coos Bay, you can see views of the Capo Arago Lighthouse. Coos Bay is also the perfect place to explore 3 state parks along the Cape Arago Highway.

Coos Bay is also the largest city on the Oregon Coast and offers plenty of city attractions. Enjoy the interpretative displays, fish market, the Koos #2 tugboat, and many seafood restaurants along the Coos Bay Boardwalk. The views of the bay are beautiful from here.

Art lovers can visit the Coos Art Museum and admire its collection of Northwestern and contemporary art. The gallery exhibit dedicated to the runner Steve Prefontaine, who is a Coos Bay native, is loved by tourists and locals alike. Other attractions worth seeing include the Egyptian Theatre, Coos Bay Maritime Center, etc.

Cape Arago Lighthouse

The Cape Arago Lighthouse, located in Charleston, stands at Gregory Point on the detached Chief’s Island near the coast off Coos Bay. The lighthouse, while decommissioned and closed to the public, is popular with photographers. 

The lonely lighthouse perched on the rocky island looks romantic and mysterious. It was built in 1866 to aid ships carrying lumber to Coos Bay. The best views of the lighthouse can be seen along the Cape Arago Beach Loop. Try the pretty views from the Sunset Bay State Park or hike to Lighthouse Beach. 

Cape Arago Beach Highway

The detour to Cape Arago Beach Loop is a must on a Pacific Coast Highway 101 road trip in Oregon. Along the highway you can spot sea lions and seals, seabirds, and migrating whales. You will also find exceptional views along the coastline.

Cape Arago Highway runs parallel to Pacific Coast Highway 101 and provides access to 3 state parks in Oregon. From north to south you will find Shore Acres State Park, Sunset Bay State Park, and Cape Arago State Park. 

Shore Acres has a formal rose garden and Japanese lily pond and is great to visit. All three state parks have beach access, amazing scenery, and miles of hiking trails. Visit the Bastendorff Beach to enjoy flying kites, surfing the waves, or beachcombing for shells and even fossils. This is one of the most popular beaches to visit in southern Oregon. You can also go hiking along the 1.2 mile long Cape Arago Loop Trail. 

Bandon Beach Loop Drive

Just off Highway 101, further south, is the Bandon Beach Loop Drive. This 5 mile long scenic drive provides access to one of southern Oregon’s most dramatic stretches. Along the loop, you will find secluded beaches and stunning viewpoints. Visitors can tide pool and bird watch while they enjoy the coastal scenery. 

The drive begins in the city at the Bandon Historical Society Museum. Here you can understand the town’s history. Past the city, the loop turns west towards the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. 

Here you will find the first famous viewpoint, Coquille Point. The view here is magical: foaming waves, sea stack, offshore rock islands, and seabirds nesting colonies look stunning at sunrise or sunset. The views of Elephant Rock are pretty clear. 

The drive south to the Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint. The interpretive trail here does a great job of explaining the Ntaive American legend behind the face on the rock. The last stop is Bandon State Natural Area. Devil’s Kitchen, next along the loop, provides easy access to a pretty beach area. You will find plenty of interesting rock formations here.

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

The last stop on your Coastal Oregon road trip! Located between Brookings and Gold Beach parallel to Highway 101, the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a must visit. The byway stretches for 12 miles and provides access to coastal bluffs, secluded beaches, offshore rock formations, and hiking trails.

At the northern end you will find the Arch Rock Viewpoint. Arch Rock is a famous sea arch in southern Oregon. This area also has picnic tables and is perfect to enjoy an outdoors lunch. Then drive down to the Natural Bridges Viewpoint. It is a famous point to spot two arched rocks and blowholes. 

Visit the dunes at Indian Sands or enjoy the quiet China Beach. Last but not the least, hike the stunning trail to Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint. The mile-long trail has breathtaking views of the coastline, marine life, and gorgeous evening sky at sunset.

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner
Pacific Coast Highway 4 day Itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 10 Day itinerary
All PCH Itineraries
Best Places to Stay along the Pacific Coast Highway
Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

The post Ultimate Highway 101 Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

What makes Portland unique is that it is uber environment-conscious – biking is the preferred mode of transit and public transport takes you where your bike doesn’t. You’ll find a counterculture of protests and marches and friendly locals who take distinct pride in being eclectic – think man buns and naked bike rides! 

What if you’re not into the whole hip vibe? Don’t worry, Portland is in many ways your typical bustling American city with the usual cultural attractions of museums and art galleries. There’s plenty of shopping too. And with Portland’s cosmopolitan crowd, comes a diverse culinary scene of cafes, restaurants, and food trucks. And if nothing else, you can always go for a glass of cold beer! 

Fun fact: ‘Keep Portland Weird’ slogan was adapted from the original ‘Keep Austin Weird’ slogan of Austin, Texas. However, Portland is definitely weirder than Austin! 

Best Things to do in Portland, Oregon

In many ways, you come to love Portland’s weirdness even if you don’t understand it. What can you not like about a city that is home to magnificent parks and dense forests, that is a stone’s throw away from beautiful waterfalls, that has more craft breweries than most others, and that is the perfect starting point for exploring the Beaver State. 

Here’s a giant list of all fun, quirky, essential, and oh-so-weird things to do in Portland, Oregon. 

Craft Beer Scene

Craft beer is a religion in Portland. In fact, the city is lovingly nicknamed ‘Beervana’. The weather around the Willamette Valley and Portland is perfect for hops production and as a result, breweries have been changing Portland’s landscape since the 1980s. Pearl District is one of the best places to go for breweries. Lagers, stouts, and ales – whatever your choice, Portland has it all!

The city has innumerable breweries and new ones keep popping up every year. For German-style beers, try Occidental Brewing Company near St. John’s Bridge. For a farmhouse-style brewery, try Upright Brewing or Great Notion Brewing. For all the deets on which breweries to visit, read here.

In addition to breweries, Portland is also home to many gastropubs and even has child-friendly breweries where parents can sip a cold one while their kids have a gala time playing around. Of course, the city celebrates with beer-themed events, like Beerweek, Oktoberfest, and Holiday Ale Festival!

Washington Park

Located in West Hills, Washington Park is home to a number of attractions. Sprawled over 410 acres, the park not only has a zoo but many gardens and some of Portland’s best museums. The park has been around since the mid-1880’s and since then, welcomes thousands of tourists every year. Spring to fall is the most popular time to visit with most people visiting between June and August. The park is easy to reach via rental cars or buses.

Start your visit at the park by visiting the Hoyt Arboretum. The arboretum is free and has some of the best educational trails in the country. You can see rare plants and trees as well as lots of birds. The arboretum also offers classes to learn more about bird identification or plant evolution. For a unique experience, see the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum. This is a great place to learn about forests, trees, and the environment – there are several interactive exhibits about the world that we live in. Kids will love the locomotive engine, Peggy! 

If you have kids, then visit the Oregon Zoo. The zoo is home to many animals including porcupines, crocodiles, beavers, swamp monkeys, and more. The zoo also has a petting zoo, play area, and aviary. Another fun attraction to visit with the kids is the Portland Children’s Museum. It offers a variety of activities including boat races, mazes, pet hospital, and fort building among others. There are many other things to do in Portland’s Washington Park including hiking trails, memorials, the Japanese Garden, and the International Rose Test Garden.

Portland Japanese Garden

Portland’s Japanese Garden is one of the best in the country. The reason behind building the beautiful Japanese garden in Washington Park was to strengthen the ties between Japan and Oregon. It was opened to visitors in 1950 and since then has grown to over 5.5 acres of landscaped paradise. In 2017, it was expanded to include the Cultural Village section where you can explore 5 types of traditional Japanese gardens..

This beautiful garden has many features including ponds, tea houses, a zen rock garden, sculptures, and lanterns. In the Cultural Village, you can soak in several traditions of Japan and see cultural demonstrations including Japanese harp music, flower arrangements, kimonos, and tea making. The garden also has a cafe where you can taste authentic food and architectural styles in areas like Tsubo-Niwa, Pavilion Gallery, and the Bonsai Terrace. 

The garden is absolutely stunning in the spring and fall. During Spring, you can see breathtakingly beautiful blooms of Japanese Iris, Wisteria, Camelias, Azaleas, Magnolias, and many more trees. In fall, you will be spellbound by the changing color of the leaves. The bright red and tangerine leaves paint the Japanese garden in a splash of color and this becomes one of the most photogenic spots in Portland.

International Rose Test Garden

Portland is also known as the Rose City due to the presence of the International Rose Test Garden. The garden has a long history that dates back to 1905. Then the streets of Portland were covered with roses to commemorate the Lewis and Clark Centennial exposition. The idea of creating an entire garden with roses was conceived during that time and the International Rose Test garden came into being in 1918 to safely grow European hybrid roses during the turbulent times of WWI. 

While you are visiting the garden, stop and smell the roses. Let your eyes feast on the blooms. There are more than 10,000 rose bushes and a total of 650 varieties being grown there. If you want to witness the blooming shrubs, the best time to go is in June. Or else, you can go there anytime between April to October and still be able to smell at least a few flowers.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

If you love gardens, then you must visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden in Portland. Opened in 2005, Lan Su Chinese Garden is one of Portland’s newest gardens. The garden is unique and authentic for the fact that it was designed by architects who flew in from Suzhou, the sister city of Portland.

The Lan Su Chinese Garden draws inspiration from many gardens in Suzhou, China. For example, the Zither lake that is artificially created in the garden is a replica of an oasis located in the Chinese city. Apart from that, you will get to see a lot of bridges, pavilions, arcades, and the tower of cosmic reflection that is inspired by Suzhou as well. Do not forget to try the fabulous tea while you are visiting the garden.

Pittock Mansion

For a Portland history lesson, visit the famous Pittock Mansion. Pittock Mansion is located amidst the gorgeous backdrop of the Willamette river and mountains. The building has a striking French Renaissance style of architecture and is beautiful to explore. It was initially built in 1914 for Henry Pittock, the publisher of the Oregonian, and his wife. The building was opened as a museum to visitors in 1964 and since then attracts a number of tourists every year.

The mansion has over 40 rooms and has beautiful views over Downtown Portland. The mansion is a popular filming locale and also has the reputation of being haunted. You can view the gorgeous mansion on a self-guided tour. Pittock Mansion is the perfect place to understand the story of Portland’s industrialization via the history of the Pittock’s. From the parking lot and the grounds, you can see beautiful views of downtown Portland and Mt. Hood.

Oregon Maritime Museum

Located between Pine Street and Naito Parkway of Portland, Oregon Maritime Museum is not only the pride of Oregon but of the entire country. The museum is located inside a steam-powered tugboat, known as ‘The Portland’, on the Willamette River. The boat operated from 1947-1981 and is the last boat of its kind in the country. 

If you visit ‘the Portland’, you can tour the entire boat including the engine room and the boat pilothouse. Apart from that, you can also check out all the maritime artifacts, ship models, and wartime memorabilia. You can read the information on military exercises performed by the ships. The museum also has interesting exhibits geared towards kids. 

Apart from the ship, the waterfront area near the museum has trails and is great for a stroll. We recommend keeping aside about two hours to explore the area and ask for more information from the volunteers if necessary. The attraction is perfect for families as kids love the thrill of being on a boat. 

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is one of the top science museums in the country. The museum has a planetarium and many exhibition halls displaying technology, industry, and science exhibits. The museum is also home to USS Blueback, a naval submarine that was active in waters off the coast of Vietnam. Visitors can tour the submarine on guided tours led by veterans – this is one of the coolest things to do in Portland. You can see the torpedo room, see through the submarine periscope, and know more about life on the vessel.

The museum is a popular draw for kids of all ages. In the Turbine Hall, kids can experience earthquakes and see how storms begin. The museum also has a science playground where kids can conduct their own mad scientist experiments. The museum offers many practical science lessons for kids. The museum also has a four-story-high large screen theatre called the Empirical Theatre. You can watch educational shows at the theatre during your visit. We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 hours at the museum to see all the exhibits. 

Portland Art Museum

The Portland Art Museum is the oldest museum of art on the West Coast. The museum is a paradise for art lovers and has a vast collection of Native American and Asian Art. A separate modern wing is reserved for contemporary art pieces. The museum also has many interesting temporary exhibits.

The museum building itself is a well-known Portland landmark. It has striking architecture. The museum has over 40,000 art pieces and you can easily take a day to see them all. Some of the famous artwork at the museum includes Water Lilies by Monet, Madonna and Child by Cecco di Pietro, and the Ox Cart by Vincent van Gogh. 

Portland Farmers Market

To experience the genuine essence of Portland, you must visit the Portland Farmers Market. Held on Saturdays, the market has more than 30,000 shoppers every week during the peak seasons. The Framers Market has six different locations all over Portland including Shemanski Park, Kenton, King and Lents, Pioneer Courthouse, and the Portland State University. 

Our favorite is the Portland University location. Visiting the Farmers Market is fun. You can get fresh fruits and vegetables in the market or enroll your kids in a cooking class. Vendors sell cheese, seafood, baked goods, sausages, and other goodies. You can also buy craft ciders, distilled vodkas, and beer – because of course, this is Portland. The market is also great for people watching and listening to live music. 

Photo of Portland with Mt. Hood

One of the most popular photographs of Portland is the city skyline with Mt. Hood in the background. There are many locations around the city from where you can take great views of Portland. For the iconic view of Mount Hood, go to the parking lot of Pittock Mansion in Washington Park. Or else, visit the award-winning Portland City Grill for a romantic dinner date and to see the panorama from the 30th floor. Not only will you get to photograph Mount Hood, but also see the Willamette River and its bridges. 

Another great place to see the views is the historic Mt. Tabor park – here you can take a walk while seeing the skyline. For a unique view from the river, try the waterfront. Last but not the least, visit James Woodhill Park. It can be reached by driving up the summit of Rocky Butte, you can see a bird’s eye view of the entire region plus also visit a historic tunnel. 

Portland Aerial Tram

The Portland Aerial Tram is a great way to see views of the city from above on a budget. The tram rises about 500 ft above the waterfront and offers visitors beautiful vistas of the Portland skyline along with the Willamette River and Mount Hood in the background. The tram cabins have floor to ceiling panoramic windows – which are perfect for taking photographs. At the top, there is a viewing platform with spectacular views of the city – the platform is located inside the hospital but can be accessed by visitors. 

The Portland Aerial Tram carries commuters from the Waterfront district to Oregon Health & Science University campus and costs just under $6 for a round trip ticket. The tram runs year-round, even during rain and snow. The trip lasts roughly 4 minutes and is an instant favorite with kids. We recommend keeping aside half an hour for this attraction.

Witch’s Castle, Forest Park

Portland’s Forest Park is a large forested area that is full of trails crisscrossing the old-growth trees. The park is home to many species of birds and animals and is a favorite place to catch beautiful views of Portland. However, the most unique thing about Forest Park is the Witch’s Castle. 

The Witch’s Castle is an old ruined building located near the junction of the Wildwood Trail and the Lower MacLeay Trail. The structure was built in the 1950s as a ranger’s station but fell into disuse. It was soon covered by moss and all that remains visible are the old stone walls. The vibe of the place is wild and eerie but charming – and something to be experienced for yourself.

The building is said to be haunted – you can read the full story here – and a hike to the Witch’s Castle is a great way to get some exercise while learning about the local folklore. The hike is roughly half a mile long one way from the Upper MacLeay parking lot near Portland Audubon Society. 

Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Portland’s Tom McCall Waterfront Park was voted among the country’s top ten public places. With a history like that, visiting the park is a must. It is located in downtown Portland, by the west bank of the Willamette River. Popular things to do along the waterfront include walking by the esplanade, attending the famous Symphony concert at the park, and taking pictures in front of the beautiful Salmon Street Springs – the park’s famous water fountain. It has three different water displays and is a great attraction to spend time in the park.

Waterfront Park is also home to many festivals. Some of the popular city events that take place in McCall park are The Big Float, where everyone can float down the river in a tube, and the annual Oregon Brewers Festival in July, where you can sample craft beers. The park also hosts the Rose Festival in May, the legendary Portland Pride in June, and Cinco de Mayo celebrations in May. These events are well attended by locals as well as tourists and are a great way to enjoy the city and the park. 

The park is well landscaped and looks beautiful year-round. McCall Waterfront Park is one of the places in Portland where you can see a glorious display of Cherry Blossoms during spring. The cherry trees are located close to the American-Japanese historical plaza. While you visit the park, you should also check out the memorials including the famous Battleship Oregon Memorial and the memorial dedicated to Japanese Americans who were held in internment camps during World War II. 

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

If you haven’t had your fill of cherry blossoms at the Japanese garden and the roses at the International Rose Test garden – and want to see even more flowers – then visit the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. Located in southeast Portland, this garden is most delightful in spring when thousands of rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom from March to July. The garden is also a great place to relax by the lakeside and birdwatch. 

Powell’s City of Books

Book lover’s rejoice! Portland’s Powell’s City of Books is one of the largest independent bookstores in the country. It is comparable to New York’s Strand bookstore and stretches over a huge area. It has multiple floors and you actually need a map to locate different sections in the color-coded rooms! Sounds fun, doesn’t it? They sell new as well as used books plus things like rare books, magazines, cards, and more – and are the perfect way to fit in some reading during your Portland trip. 

Shanghai tunnels

Did you know that there is an underground group of passages known as the Shanghai Tunnels in Portland? The tunnels were originally built under restaurants, hotels, and pubs to move goods transported via the Willamette River in the 19th century. Legends say the tunnels were increasingly used for shanghaiing – abducting and selling men to sea captains and forcing them to work as crew on voyages across the Pacific. Hence the name Shanghai tunnels. Today you can take a guided tour of these tunnels that extend mostly from Downtown to the Old Town (Chinatown) neighborhood to discover the truth of the tunnels for yourself. Exploring the tunnels is one of the best things to do in Portland with older kids/teens. 

Famous doughnuts

This may come as a surprise, but among other things, Portland is known for its doughnuts! Portland has perfected America’s favorite snack and elevated it to a cuisine. Yes, we are still talking about fried dough. There are bakeries in Portland that specialize in doughnuts, the two most popular being Voodoo Doughnuts and Blue Star. This legendary battle is as popular as Giordano’s vs Lou Malnati’s for Chicago Deep Dish Pizza or Cafe du Monde vs Cafe Beignets for New Orleans beignets. 

Voodoo Doughnut is the one that started it all, with their cereal topped, Portland cream, and bacon maple versions. You need to try Voodoo doughnuts for their assorted flavors and delicious taste. But if you are looking for something exotic, make a beeline for Blue Star Donuts, Carry more than a little cash – these are pricey – but totally worth it. Where else can you get a blueberry bourbon doughnut! Some of the other doughnut shops to try include Donut Queen and Heavenly Donuts. To see other recommendations, see here.

Legendary Restaurants

Portland is much more than doughnuts. The city is famous for its culinary scene. It is one of the best cities to travel for foodies and you can easily spend a weekend in Portland trying its culinary delights. You will find everything in Portland including farm-to-table restaurants, vegan food, exotic animal meats, food carts, and shacks specializing in a single thing: doughnuts, ice-cream, chicken wings, dumplings, and so on. You will find all cuisines from around the world and can take food tours around the city’s famous eateries and restaurants. And of course, there are visits to the local wineries, distilleries, and breweries to wash all down all the food. The city has many food festivals around the year. To know more about Portland’s favorite foods, read here and here.

Food Truck Pods

Portland’s food trucks and food carts deserve a separate mention just because there are so many of them. You can visit Portland and survive just on the food trucks yet experience a variety of cuisines. Arguably, you will find more food carts than trucks, and they are located adjacent to each other in a single location called a pod. The city has many such pods and by visiting one, you are promised a heavenly experience. Portland’s quirky side is fully reflected here and you will find some really weird dishes along with the usual fare of sandwiches and lamb over rice. To spot the essential pods and know where to go, read this excellent guide by Eater. 

Mill Ends Park

While Portland is quite green and has parks such as the Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden, and the densely wooded Forest Park it is also home to the world’s smallest park, the Mill Ends Park. This park is actually a non-park – it is two feet wide and located on the median of Nato Parkway. But the Guinness Book of World Records mentions it’s the smallest park and so it is! Oh, and btw, the park is dedicated to leprechauns of Ireland! You can read all about the story here. The park is a popular spot for St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Portland. 

Bridges on the Willamette

Portland has some really pretty bridges on the Willamette River. We would encourage you to go exploring these, take their photographs, and walk across them – if allowed. Start at the pedestrian-friendly Tilikum Crossing, the newest bridge in the city that was completed in 2015. This cable-stayed bridge is a beauty and unique in the sense that it doesn’t allow private cars. Then go see the rustic engineering marvel, Steel Bridge. Last but not the least, walk across the St. Johns Bridge. This bridge has striking Gothic architecture and beautiful views of the city. This bridge was built by David Steinman, the same architect who built the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan. You can read more about Portland’s bridges here. 

Mount Tabor

Want to explore an extinct volcano near Portland? Go hiking at Mount Tabor Park! The volcano is named after Mount Tabor of Israel. The volcano is a cinder cone that has been dormant for many years. The park is located in the Boring Lava Field, a big volcanic field of cinder cones, lava flows, and small volcanoes. The park is quite popular for those interested in the geothermal phenomenon as visitors can actually see the cut cinder cone. The highest point of the peak is located 636 feet above sea level and the park has great views of the city.

Find your way to the top of the volcanic cone by hiking the Mt. Tabor trail. There are several trails to the summit – the three popular ones are the Green trail, the Red trail, and the Blue trail. We recommend taking the Blue trail. Most people can reach the summit without any difficulties on this easy, paved hike. The trail is about 2 miles roundtrip and makes a great stroll throughout the year. You can also get a trail map at the park visitor center.

Fun fact: Mt. Tabor Park has a statue of The Oregonian’s editor, Harvey Scott. This statue has been sculpted by Gutzon Borglum – the sculptor behind Mt. Rushmore in South Dakota!

Sauvie Island

Located in the waters of the Columbia River, Sauvie Island is one of Portland’s best-hidden gems. The Island is located 10 miles to the north-west of Portland at the intersection of the Columbia and Willamette rivers. It is named after a French Canadian, Laurent Sauvé dit Laplante, who managed a dairy on the island. You can easily reach the island via car or buses from Portland; it makes a great day trip during your stay. The island is quite different from the busy city – in Sauvie Island, you will find rolling farmlands, forested areas, and secluded beaches.  

This Manhattan sized island is one of the best wildlife-spotting spots around Portland. Over 250 species of birds can be observed in the refuge including bald eagles, cranes, hawks, chickadees, nuthatches, finches, and many species of songbirds and waterfowl. For a visitor’s guide and the best times to go, read this. The island is also a paradise for outdoor activities. Most people explore the island via hiking and biking trails. The popular trails include Warrior Rock lighthouse trail and Oak Island nature trail. You can also go kayaking, fishing, hunting, and boating on the island.

Other things to do on Sauvie Island include berry picking, produce picking, and spending time on the beaches. There are several farms located on the island that allows visitors to pick strawberries, blackberries, peaches, corn, pumpkins, and even Christmas trees during the holiday season. For renowned farms, try visiting Bella Organic Farm, Sauvie Island Farm, and Kruger’s Farm. The island has many public beaches for swimming and sunning. It also has a nude beach, so check out before you go. 

Historic Columbia River Highway

The Historic Columbia River Highway is one of the most scenic byways in Oregon. The length of the entire highway is just 70 miles but you will need a minimum of 4 to 5 hours to complete this enchanting drive. On the road, you can enjoy the views of towering mountains, densely forested trees, and the river for hours together. Most people prefer to drive down the road from spring to fall because of mild weather conditions and scenic vistas. Fall is especially a beautiful time to visit as the trees along the highway are colorful with vibrant fall foliage. In summer, you will find a swathe of wildflowers along the highway. Since its opening in 1922, the highway has been attracting visitors to the Columbia River Gorge area.

There are many things to do along this route connecting Portland and Mt. Hood / Columbia River Gorge. Apart from the beautiful road, you can visit a bevy of sites including waterfalls, charming bridges, and historic buildings. The waterfalls are most frequently visited by visitors, especially Multnomah Falls. Other attractions include the City of The Dalles, Troutdale Visitor Center, Crown Point, Vista House, and Chanticleer Point. There are many trailheads located along the route – a stroll along these will take you through the forests of maples and spruce. You will walk through moss-covered canyons and soak in the beauty of waterfalls like the gorgeous Bridal Veil Falls, Shepherd Dell falls, Wahkeena falls, and others. 

Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls in the Columbia River Gorge deserves a special mention. With a total height of 611 feet, Multnomah Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. A tragic legend related to the Multnomah People is said to be associated with the waterfall, which makes it even more beautiful – you can read the story here. To reach Multnomah Falls, drive along the scenic Historic Columbia River Highway from Portland. You can visit the falls year-round, with spring to fall being most popular. The Multnomah Falls are often frozen in winter and look fantastic. However, the best time to visit is in fall when the fall foliage is vibrant on both sides of the waterfall. 

The Multnomah Fall is a two-tiered fall. The Upper fall cascades over the cliff from a height of 542 feet while the lower fall drops down 69 feet. The iconic Benson bridge overlooks the bottom of Upper falls. The best way to see Multnomah Falls is by hiking. Experienced and beginner hikers alike will love this 2.4 miles long round trip trail to the top of the upper falls. Alternatively, you can also hike partway, up to the first stop located at the Benson Bridge. You can click beautiful pictures of the falls from the bridge, after which you can proceed to the top of the waterfalls if you wish. The view from the top is utterly breathtaking. If you are lucky, you might also spot wildlife while hiking near the waterfall.

After you see the falls, there are many other things to do in the area. You can spend time exploring the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge. This stone lodge was designed in 1925 by the Portland architect Albert E. Doyle and has striking architectural features. The rustic style beautifully complements the surrounding landscape. Check out the Visitor Center to learn more about the falls’ and lodge’s history. Pick up a trail map and if visiting in fall, ask the rangers for peak foliage dates. Dine in the restaurant. Then after getting rejuvenated, visit the gift shop and buy souvenirs including magnets, postcards, and more.

Mount Hood National Forest

Mt. Hood, located close to Portland, is the highest mountain in the state of Oregon. It is located at an altitude of 11,249 feet and 50 miles away from the city. The drive is almost two and a half hours long, accounting for the scenic stops. You can either drive to Mt. Hood or take the Mt. Hood Express bus from Portland. Mt. Hood is located in the Cascade range and is an active volcano. There are over 12 glaciers located in the area, and the surrounding forest is extremely scenic.

The area surrounding Mt. Hood is a great weekend getaway from Portland. The road Mount Hood Scenic Loop is beautiful to drive. Many quaint hotels and bed & breakfasts are located in the region. Several hiking trails of varying difficulty can be found near Mount Hood. Many first time visitors like to hike the popular Trillium Lake trail. You can also meet backpackers on the Mount Hood portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. If visiting in winter, you can ski at the Timberline Lodge Ski Area. 

Willamette Valley Vineyards

Willamette Valley is Oregon’s top wine-producing region. There are over 600 wineries located in the roughly 150-mile long region. The Valley is also home to many of Oregon’s cities – including the charming Eugene. Some of the renowned wineries located in this wine region are Adelsheim Vineyard, Raptor Ridge Winery, and Brooks Wine. All of the wineries offer wine tastings where you can sample some of the estate’s finest along with cheese and fruits. The valley also holds many wine-related events that are worth a visit. Harvest season is a great time to make the trip to the wineries.

Besides the wineries, there are many other things to do in Willamette Valley. The Valley is located right by the gorgeous McKenzie River and one of the fabulous ways to spend your time is on the water. You can go fishing, kayaking, or on a boat cruise. You can also see a variety of birds of prey including eagles, falcons, and hawks on a visit to the Cascades Raptor Center. Other popular activities in the valley include foraging for mushrooms, picking berries and produce, checking out the street art in Eugene, etc.  

Oregon Coastal Towns

Portland is the best place to drive down the Oregon Coast along Highway 101. You can make this drive even if you are in Portland just for a few days. If you have a full day, start your trip in the charming town of Astoria. It is located on the mouth of the Columbia River and has many historic attractions including shipwrecks, towers, filming locales, and more. Then drive down along the coast towards Cannon Beach. This is the most photographed part of the Oregon Coast and is famous for its fog-covered sea stacks. For more information on planning an Oregon Coastal road trip, read our itinerary now. If you are short on time, then we recommend skipping Astoria and making the 1.5 hrs long trip to Cannon Beach. You get to see the famous sea stacks, play on the beach, and enjoy a day along the coast.

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner
Pacific Coast Highway 4 day Itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 10 Day itinerary
All PCH Itineraries
Best Places to Stay along the Pacific Coast Highway
Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

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The Oregon Coast Road Trip along Highway 101 is one of our favorite road trips in the world.

This trip along the Pacific Coast has everything from panoramic beaches, fog-shrouded hiking trails, secret coves, quaint beachside towns, artist communities, and even redwood trees!

Yes, those giants are not limited to North California but also thrive in southern Oregon. 

The best place to see them? Along the Oregon Redwood Trail, of course! 

In this itinerary, we have also included attractions further inland which means along with sandy beaches and buffs….

….you also get to see beautiful waterfalls, stunning blue lakes, volcanic domes, hot springs, and desert landscapes..

After all, this is Oregon – Things look different here! 

Related: Best Places to Visit in Oregon

Oh, and if you love craft beer you are going to love Oregon.

Throughout the state, you can find brewpubs, microbreweries, craft beers served in restaurants, and beer aficionados!

Use this itinerary to plan a stunningly spectacular Oregon Road Trip now! 

What is the best time to visit Oregon?

Oregon is just stunning to visit throughout the year, even in winter and spring.

In winter, you may not see the cornflower blue Crater Lake and will definitely need a car with snow chains but it still looks beautiful.

However, if you want a relaxed trip with no chance of getting stuck in a blizzard, then the summer is your best bet for visiting eastern Oregon. 

In summer, you will find excellent weather throughout the state and wildflowers in the mountains.

Summer is perfect for hiking with the sunset as late as 9 pm in the northern part of the state.

The water is also good for swimming, though in our opinion the Pacific is always too cold to swim! 

Winter and spring are usually rainy/windy for the coast.

If you are visiting in these seasons, we recommend bringing raincoat or rain jackets and an umbrella.

Further inland, you will encounter snow and even blizzards.

Bring along warm jackets and thermals, and get snow chains on your tires.

Also, remember: snow chains may void rental car agreements so skip visiting Crater Lake or any nearby areas in winter if renting a car or read your rental agreement carefully. 

Fall is another good time to visit, especially in early fall.

The Columbia River Gorge region looks spectacular with fall colors and the Willamette Valley wineries have harvest events.

How many days do you need to see Oregon?

Oregon is quite vast – you don’t realize how vast unless you look at the state map!

The I-5 and Highway 101 are quite far from the eastern side.

Thankfully, most major attractions are located along these two roads, making it feasible to see the Best of Oregon in a week or so. 

If you like slow travel, then keep aside 10 days to 2 weeks for this road trip.

On the other hand, if you are short on time then you can easily split your trip and do the coastal attractions in 4 or 5 days, keeping aside the interior for another visit. 

Ultimate Oregon Road Trip Itinerary

This ultimate Oregon Road Trip Itinerary will take you through the best attractions in the state.

We have written this itinerary down along the coast starting in Portland and then up again towards this vibrant city. 

Whether it’s along Highway 1 in California or along Highway 101 in Oregon, we love driving along the Pacific Coast from the north to the south.

That way, the best views are on your right side and it is easy to stop at pullouts. 

Also, Portland makes a great city to fly in and out of, as well as to rent a car.

If you want to drive in the clockwise direction or fly into Eugene or someplace else, you can still use our itinerary – it is really easy to customize as per your interests. 

With that said, let’s dig down into what makes Oregon so special and how to plan a road trip along it all! 

Portland and the vicinity – 3 Days

Portland is a very convenient city to begin your Oregon Road Trip Itinerary.

But before you take the car and hit the Oregon coast, we would recommend spending a few days in Portland to experience its unique culture and vibe.

You should also check out the natural attractions just outside of Portland. 

Portland

Portland is pretty unique and known for its hipster culture.

The city goes by the slogan, ‘Keep Portland Weird‘. That should give you some idea of what to expect in this unique, vibrant city.

Bacon doughnuts, eateries serving ethically sourced foods, food trucks, board game cafes, karaoke bars, bike shares, indie coffees, murals – that sorta things! 

The Pacific Northwest’s incessant rains and humid climate provide a great growing environment for the city’s plants, trees, and bushes.

As a result – you will find many beautiful gardens in this city. 

Our favorite is the famous Japanese Garden.

Located within Washington Park, this beautifully landscaped garden is so tranquil that it transports you into a different world. 

Other things to do in Washington Park, Portland’s famous urban park, include the International Rose Test Garden, the Oregon Zoo, Children’s Museum, and more.

Keep aside at least half a day to see this area.

Another essential stop: Powell’s City of Books!

This used bookstore located in the Pearl District is a Portland landmark, akin to NYC’s Strand or Denver’s Tattered Cover Book Store.

Here you will find a million books, book readings and signings, and even writing workshops.

Book lovers can spend hours browsing through the books – if you have one, be prepared to literally drag them out to see the rest of Portland!

Other things to do in Portland include visiting the famous Pittock Mansion, Portland Art Museum, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, the chic Pearl district, the Lan Su Chinese Garden, and the Hoyt Arboretum.

If you want to focus more on experiencing the city rather than checking out attractions, then we’d suggest exploring more of the Pearl District.

This cool area was formerly a railyard and has the perfect mix of art galleries, cafes, boutiques, craft breweries, and pubs. 

Portland’s food scene is pretty amazing.

The city’s Voodoo doughnuts are popular with tourists but locals recommend Blue Star doughnuts.

Blue Star has plenty of unique flavors; Blueberry Bourbon Basil doughnut anyone?

If you do happen to visit Voodoo, don’t forget to take a photo with the ‘Keep Portland Weird’ sign which is located near the doughnut shop.

Another local chain worth trying is Salt & Straw ice cream.

They have unique flavors and a must for Portland visitors.

Other famous ice cream shops are Fifty Licks and Ruby Jewel.

For exotic cocktails, a visit to the famed Hale Pele Tiki Bar is essential.

Bring along friends and try their famous Volcano Bowl.

For real food (enough with ice creams, doughnuts, and cocktails), try Pok Pok’s fish sauce chicken wings! 

The city is also famous for its dumplings.

Portland also has many farmer’s markets where you can shop for organic produce and artisan products.

And don’t forget the horde of food trucks pampering every taste bud.

Where most cities have a truck or two lining up the sidewalks, Portland has food truck pods – areas where dozens of carts and trucks are parked next to each other, waiting for your patronage!

Wondering how much time to spend in Portland?

You ideally need at least 2 to 3 days to see most of Portland but you can cover the highlights including the Pearl District and Washington Park in a day if you have less time.

To make the most of your Portland trip, read our post on 29 Epic Things to do in Portland, Oregon.

Fun fact: Feeling lazy? Well, at least you don’t need to get out of the car to fill up on gas!

That’s right, Oregon is the second place where we encountered gas station attendants. The other being New Jersey!

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oregon.

While the area is vast, you can easily see it on a day trip from Portland on the Historic Columbia River highway.

Located just half an hour away, the national scenic area is full of trails, waterfalls, scenic drives, and lookout points.

We recommend driving along the 20 mile long Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway to explore the area.

Some of our favorite spots along the highway are Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Latourell Falls, and Vista House.

The parking lots along the byway, especially at Multnomah Falls, get full on weekends, so we recommend arriving early in the day. 

The #1 tourist attraction in the Columbia River Gorge area is the Multnomah Falls.

At 620 feet, the waterfall is the tallest of the many waterfalls in the gorge.

This beautiful waterfall has two drops, creating the upper falls and lower falls.

The picturesque Benson Bridge creates a perfect place to view the falls.

While you can see the falls from below after a 5 mins walk from the parking lot, you need to scramble up to Benson Bridge and another mile to reach the viewpoint at the top.

Another must visit is the Multnomah Falls Lodge which has a visitor center and is a designated historic place. 

Other things to do in the gorge region include hiking, boat cruises, visiting dams, winery tasting, waterfall hiking, etc.

We would recommend seeing Portland and the Columbia River Gorge area before beginning your Oregon road trip in either clockwise or counterclockwise direction as per your interest. 

The rugged Oregon Coast Road Trip – 3 Days

Oregon Coast is a different beast compared to most of the Californian Coast.

It is windy, rugged, wet, foggy, and cold. It is also beautiful and dramatic. 

Along the coast, you will find gorgeous geological formations including Haystack Rock, Thor’s Well, sand dunes, etc.

You will also find rainforests, artsy communities and beachy towns – plus, lots of seafood! 

The route you’ll be following – Highway 101 – completely parallels the coast and is a pleasure to drive. 

Astoria

We recommend starting your coastal road trip in Astoria in the north.

This pretty coastal town has many things to offer.

Start your visit by climbing to the top of the famed Astoria Column, a historic tower with stunning 360 degree views of Astoria and the coast. 

Other things to do in Astoria include:

the Columbia River Maritime Museum which narrates the seafaring history of the area,

the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park which is home to the historic Fort Clatsop,

and the Fort Stevens State Park where you can see a historic shipwreck. 

Seaside

Next stop at the resort town of Seaside.

It’s main attraction is the Seaside Promenade, a 1.5 mile long boardwalk, which is perfect for a stroll.

Other things to do include spotting harbor seals at the Seaside Aquarium, exploring the art galleries in town, sampling some of the famous Sea Star Gelato. 

While you are in Seaside, stop by the Bell Buoy, a locally owned seafood market where you can also order specialties like fish and chips, clam chowder, crab melt, and oyster shooters.

This is also a great place to pick up something for a picnic lunch. 

Cannon Beach

After leaving Seaside, head for the Cannon Beach area. Walk on the beach and marvel at the sea stacks.

To take the most photographed view of Haystack Rock with Cannon Beach in the background, visit Ecola State Park. 

From here, you can also spot the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse.

The state park is also good for wildlife watching including bald eagles, brown pelicans, tufted puffins, elk, seals, sea lions, and migrating gray whales.

The park also has tidepools where you can spot a variety of low tide creatures. 

Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach is a charming Oregon coastal town and has been a popular West Coast beach getaway for families since many years.

A highlight is the Twin Rock formation off the coast.

In the town, you will find charming buildings, shopping, and seafood restaurants.  

Tillamook Coast

For a change of pace, ride the Oregon Scenic Coast Railroad between Rockaway Beach and Garibaldi.

This historic train will take you along the coast and has many special excursions in the Tillamook Bay area. 

Then stop at the famous Tillamook Creamery.

The Creamery / Cheese factory is an essential stop on the Oregon coast road trip.

At the factory, you can go on a self- guided tour of the cheese making and packaging process.

You can sample a few cheeses as well as buy some for the road – plus, they have ice cream!

This stop is a favorite with families and kids. 

Post Tillamook, you can either follow Highway 101 inland or take a detour towards the Three Capes Scenic Drive.

Along this scenic road, you will have amazing views of Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda.

This road is a hidden gem and was a highlight of our road trip. 

Cape Perpetua

Next visit Devil’s Punchbowl and the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, before driving to Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.

See the view from Cape Perpetua Lookout point, visit Thor’s Well, see the spouting horn which shoots water into the air, and see the Devil’s Churn.

Next stop at the famous Heceta Head Lighthouse.

The lighthouse position is extremely scenic and makes for iconic photographs.

You can also tour the lighthouse, see timings on the official website. 

Other stops as you make your way south include the Oregon Dunes, Coos Bay, the state parks near Bandon beach, and the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor.

The views along the corridor are especially scenic and we fell in love with this scenic road trip. 

The total distance from Astoria in the north to Brooking in the south is about 8 hours (~340 miles).

We recommend breaking it into ideally 3 to 4 days so you can hike, take scenic drives, enjoy time at the beach, visit local restaurants and factories, explore museums and antique stores, and generally, have a grand time. 

If you have only two days to see the coast, we would recommend visiting our favorite attractions of Cannon Beach, Three Capes Scenic Drive, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, and the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Byway. 

If you can hike only one trail, hike to Thor’s Well. If you can visit only one lighthouse, visit the Heceta Head Lighthouse.

Don’t forget to visit Tillamook Creamery and eat the seafood at Bell Buoy.

Stay the night at either Newport or Florence near the Heceta Head Lighthouse and observe the stunning sunsets on the Pacific. 

If you have more time, then plan a leisurely drive down to Southern Oregon coast.

There is so much more to see and do on the Oregon coast beyond the attractions mentioned in this itinerary. 

You can see unique sites like the Goonies filming location in Astoria, Indian beach, Cape Meares Lighthouse, check out breweries along the coast, stroll along the Garibaldi Pier, go whale watching, visit the Oregon Aquarium at Newport, explore the Old Town of Florence, etc. 

To find out our 25 favorite stops along the Oregon Coast and plan your road trip along Highway 101, read our separate post on Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary. 

Through the Cascades – 2 Days

In central Oregon, you will find the beautifully breathtaking Cascade Mountain ranges – a must stop on any Oregon Itinerary.

This region of Oregon is stunning with snow capped mountain ranges, amazing hikes, a variety of outdoor adventures, and charming mountain towns. 

That’s why, we recommend adding Central Oregon to your Oregon state road trip.

Those who come to see only Portland and Coastal Oregon are missing out on the diversity that the Beaver State offers to its visitors. 

Here you will find majestic mountain peaks, dense evergreen forests, beautiful mountain lakes, skiing in winter, and lots of wildlife encounters. 

Where you start your Cascades part of the trip depends on how far south you go along the Coast.

If you go down to Brookings, you will need to enter California before you can reach Central Oregon. 

Irrespective of that, your first stop should be Crater Lake National Monument. 

Crater Lake National Park

No road trip in Oregon is complete without visiting Crater Lake National Park.

This is a majestic place to visit year round though in the winter, you will be treated to closed roads and snow on the rim.

The lake itself always looks a mysterious and shimmering blue. 

There are many ways in which you can enjoy the astounding scenery of this beautiful place.

Drive the scenic rim drive or go hiking into the surrounding forest.

Stop at the pullouts and take stunning photographs of Crater Lake.

In the summer, you can also swim in the lake at Cleetwood Cove. 

This deepest lake in the country was formed when the Mount Mazama volcano erupted more than seven thousand years ago and water filled up it’s collapsed caldera.

You can read more about the fascinating history of this geological wonder at the visitor center. 

Optional: Umpqua National Forest

The Umpqua National Forest is a gorgeous region to add to your road trip through Oregon.

While the recent wildfires in Oregon have affected the outdoor recreation area, it still remains quite beautiful.

You can go on scenic drives through the mountains or enjoy hiking trails.

There are also many waterfalls and swimming holes in the forest where you can go hiking, fishing, and swimming. 

Bend

Located on the banks of the Deschutes River on the eastern slopes of the Cascade mountains, Bend is a delightful and charming city.

In the city, you will find boutique shopping, craft breweries, coffee shops, and trendy eateries.

Talking of breweries, Bend is famous for its beer scene and even has an ale trail – it is a must for beer lovers! 

Bend is also famous for its plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.

In summer you can enjoy watersports and go on hiking trails while in the winter, you can go skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding.

This is really a fantastic city to visit while in Oregon. 

Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway

Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway begins in Bend and is an amazing drive to enjoy the stunning summer scenery in the Cascades ranges.

The drive is 66 miles long and takes about half a day to complete considering the stops.

The route goes through the Deschutes National Forest, Three Sisters Wilderness Area, and beautiful mountain lakes. 

Optional: Deschutes River

If you have time and are looking for a relaxing and cooling day in the summer, then consider a floating trip down the Deschutes River.

This river in central Oregon is perfect for river tubing.

You can rent floats, kayaks, or canoes in Bend and can launch your trip from the Riverbend Park.

You can also try whitewater rafting along the river or go fishing.

The river is a must on your Oregon road trip itinerary for water lovers. 

After visiting Deschutes River, you can drive northwest towards Oregon.

However, if you have the time we would suggest exploring the beautiful bare, rugged landscape of eastern Oregon. 

Optional: Via the desert landscapes of Eastern Oregon – 2 Days

While Eastern Oregon has many unique desert landscapes including:

the Painted Hills, Owyhee Canyonlands, Hart Mountains, and Alvord Desert,

We recommend visiting just the Painted Hills and other units of John Day if you have less time. 

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Oregon is located close to Deschutes River.

The monument comprises 3 units: Painted Hills, Sheep Rock, and Clarno. 

Painted Hills is the most visited unit of the National Monument. 

The monument is most renowned for the excellently preserved fossils of plants and animals that lived in Eastern Oregon millions of years ago.

The fossils span over 50 million years and this is one of the most complete fossil records in the world. 

The monument and it’s units are located in rural Oregon.

Here you will find tiny villages, open ranches where cattle wander onto the roads, and very basic amenities.

We suggest filling up on gas whenever you encounter a gas station, you definitely don’t want to be stuck in these parts! 

Painted Hills

Painted Hills is a beautiful, magical landscape that looks even more stunning at dusk or dawn.

It looks even more vibrant after a rainfall when the colors on the hills are vivid and alive.

The site is considered among the Seven Wonders of Oregon and is a must visit while in the state. 

There are many things to do in the Painted Hills unit of John Day and several ways to take in the beauty of the area.

Hike to the iconic Painted Hills Overlook to get a panoramic view of the colorful hills.

Hike the short Painted Cove Trail to get up close to the hills or hike the 1.6 mile round trip Carroll Rim Trail to see the sweeping vistas. 

Optional: Owyhee Canyonlands

Southeastern Oregon’s Owyhee Canyonlands seems to belong more to the American Southwest than to the Pacific Northwest.

Here you will find a red rock landscape reminiscent of Sedona and spectacular, eroded canyons. 

Not many visitors come here, keeping this one of the best kept secrets of Oregon.

This volcanic landscape has been carved by flowing rivers and glaciers and contains several badlands, clifftops, canyons, and desert landscapes. 

One of the best ways to explore this remote attraction is by hiking.

Take to the trails and discover beautiful spots such as Leslie Gulch, Jordan Craters, and Painted Canyon Loop.

Remember to bring maps, plenty of water, and other hiking essentials as there are no amenities near the Canyonlands.

Also, you will need a 4WD vehicle to make the drive out here as it is on unpaved roads.

Optional: Alvord Desert

Alvord Desert is located in southeastern Oregon near the Steens mountains.

This was once a lake that was several hundred feet deep.

Today, you will find just a dry lake bed and a beautiful desert landscape.

The minerals from the lake are deposited over hexagonal cracks in the ground.

In some ways, Alvord Desert is similar to Death Valley.

It is also eerily silent and one of the most underrated destinations in Oregon. 

The area is famous for its geothermal activity and it is said that at night, you can hear booming noises from the seismic activity.

Visitors often camp here in this desolate landscape because of its unprecedented beauty plus the camping here is free and doesn’t need any permits.

That’s right, you could just walk up here, set up your tent, and enjoy the sunset before you turn in for the night. 

On the western edge of the Alvord Desert, you will find the Alvord Hot Springs.

These are a result of the high seismic activity in the area.

They are privately owned and can be accessed for a small entry fee.

Here you will find two simple concrete pools with wooden edges to sit.

If you camp here, you can soak in the hot springs even at night.

This is a truly one of a kind outdoor experience in Oregon. 

While you are there you can also drive the Steens Mountains Loop drive which is 60 miles long and takes about 2 hours.

The views along the drive are beautiful and there are lookout points at regular intervals.

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner
Pacific Coast Highway 4 day Itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 10 Day itinerary
All PCH Itineraries
Best Places to Stay along the Pacific Coast Highway
Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

The post Best of Oregon Road Trip Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure! appeared first on PCH1 Road Trip.

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Oregon also has a rich culture and tradition. The state was home to many indigenous tribes before the first European settlers arrived from the east. Visitors can experience the history and crafts of the Native Americans through art and history museums. Oregon is also home to vibrant cities of Portland, Eugene, and Bend as well as coastal communities like Astoria and Newport. Here are the best places to visit, things to see, and do in Oregon. 

Best Places to visit in Oregon

Being a physically diverse state, visitors can find a variety of places to visit In Oregon from the coasts to the mountains. There are attractions for all types of travelers and activities where families can spend quality time together. From wine tasting to beachcombing and from skiing to spelunking, the range of attractions in Oregon is huge and sometimes intimidating to visitors. That’s why we have compiled a list of the best things to do in Oregon for the first time visitors:

Portland

Portland is the perfect place to start your Oregon trip for everyone. Known for its weird attractions, Portland has a lot of options for visitors. The city has many urban parks including the Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden, a popular culinary scene of food trucks, restaurants, and cafes as well as quality museums including the Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. 

Portland has a rich history and there is a lot you can learn about the city’s past at the Oregon Historical Society Museum. You will meet some of the friendliest people in Portland. The locals pride themselves on being environmentally friendly and the city is one of the hubs for activism along the West Coast. Portland’s hipster culture is a highlight of this city making it the perfect choice for millennials and Generation X.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

One of the highlights of Oregon is the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. There are many things to do in the area including waterfalls, scenic drives, historic buildings, and panoramic vistas. Visitors can drive along the historic River Columbia River Byway to explore the attractions of the gorge. Other than the awe-inspiring scenery, visitors can also get the finest hand-crafted beer and wine in nearby Willamette Valley, all thanks to the region’s unique geography. 

The scenic area is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state including the Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horsetail Falls. Watersports enthusiasts will love kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and boating. River Hood is said to be the windsurfing capital of the world. Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful place for explorers and adventures. The hype of this historic site is real, visit and you would find out why.

Multnomah Falls

Just a 30 minutes’ drive away from Portland, visitors can find themselves at the magical Multnomah Falls. The two stepped falls cascade down from a height of 620 feet, making it the highest waterfall in Oregon. The Upper Falls plunge from a height of 542 feet while the Lower Falls cascade down 69 feet. This. Icy cold water flows throughout the year. There is a 9-foot elevation drop between the two falls over which the beautiful Benson Bridge is located. 

The falls also have two hiking trails to see them up close. The moderate trail of 2.2 miles takes you to a small viewing platform at the top of the falls whereas the longer Wahkeena Falls trail of 5.4 miles combines many of the area’s stunning waterfalls in one amazing hike. Visitors can also visit the Visitor Center located inside the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge for exhibits and souvenirs. 

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake is one of Oregon’s most beautiful landscapes: the deep blue lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains is every photographer’s dream. The lake is one of the United State’s deepest lakes – it is also one of the oldest. The lake was formed more than 7700 years ago due to accumulated precipitation in the collapsed caldera of Mount Mazama volcano. The lake and its surrounding area are protected by the Crater Lake National Park. 

To see the lake from different viewpoints, drive along the Scenic Rim Drive. The national park has many hiking trails and visitors can even take a ferry to the center of the lake. The national park is open year-round but winter access and activities are limited to certain areas.  During winter, visitors can see snow on the rim drive and the lake partly covered in fog. Winter hiking, snowshoeing, and sledding in the park are popular. 

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a small coastal city in Northern Oregon. It is famous for its nine miles long beaches. The city is romantic and one of the best places in Oregon to experience the small city charm. Downtown Cannon Beach also has a unique vibe with its antique stores, seafood eateries, and art galleries. The view of Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock is the most iconic of the Oregon coast. Cannon Beach is famous for its sunsets that look like paintings by the Old Masters. To see the most beautiful views of Cannon Beach, visitors flock down to Indian Beach in Ecola State Park.

Astoria

Astoria is a historic seaport city located where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. The city is famous for its many historical museums and the Fort Clapton. Astoria is the oldest city in Oregon and is the best place to begin an Oregon Coast Road Trip. The museums in Astoria including the Columbia River Maritime Museum, Flavel House Museum, and Heritage Museum are well-maintained. To see the best views of the city and the coast, visit the Astoria–Megler bridge and the Astoria Column. The Lewis and Clark National Historical Park located in Fort Clapton is also a must-visit.

Bend

Along with Portland and Eugene, Bend is one of the largest cities in Oregon. This city combines a typical small-town vibe with big-city attractions and should be on everyone’s Oregon bucket list. Along with museums and theatres, the city is popular for its breweries. There are several located in town and almost all of them produce excellent craft beer. Deschutes Brewery is one of the oldest ones and worth a visit. Bend also has many wineries and distilleries located in town. 

Bend is amazing to visit for outdoor people because of its location on the eastern side of the Cascade mountains. Hundreds descend on the town in winter for the ski runs and ski resorts. The best time to visit Bend is however during the summer. The city’s popular summer activities include hiking, cycling, biking, river rafting, and rock climbing. Bend is also the perfect base for exploring the eastern side of the state and day trips from Bend to Painted Hills or Crater Lake are very popular.

Willamette Valley Wineries

Willamette Valley is Oregon’s famous wine-growing region. The Willamette Valley wineries make the world’s premium pinot-noir and are known for their wine tasting events and activities. On a scenic drive through the valley, visitors are privy to a gorgeous view of wineries. The ideal time to see Willamette Valley in its full glory is just before the harvest season which is usually from September to October. 

During fall, the crews work in the fields, some of the wines turn a beautiful bronze, and activities like grape stomping and pumpkin patches occur on weekends. During harvest season, thousands of visitors from all over the country visit Willamette Valley. While the wineries are the prime attraction of Willamette Valley, there are many other things to do in the region as well. Biking around the valley, hiking on trails, visiting art galleries, and taking a hot air balloon ride are some of the people’s favorites.

Mount Hood National Forest

Mount Hood National Forest is one of the most visited natural forests in the United States due to the variety of recreation sites that it offers visitors. This densely forested area is less than 50 miles away from Portland and a short one hour drive away. The road to Mount Hood passes through the scenic Columbia River Gorge and its waterfalls. Visitors can easily combine attractions like Multnomah Falls and Hood River with a visit to the Mount Hood National Forest. 

Mount Hood is the highlight of the national forest. The peak remains covered in snow year-round. Many lakes are located in the national forests and hiking around them is a fun experience. Popular summer activities include hiking, biking, mountain climbing, and camping while the main recreational activities in winter include skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. The view from the Mount Hood Scenic Byway is spectacular and a delight for photographers.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a scenic byway / linear state park with gorgeous coastal views, sandy beaches, and dense forests. The byway in southern Oregon is far from popular places like Astoria and Cannon Beach and remains a hidden gem along the Oregon Coast. There are several lookout points, geological formations, and trailheads located along the byway. Most of the hikes are beautiful and enough to make you fall in love with the Oregon coast. The corridor extends for 12 miles and visitors easily take 2 to 3 hours to complete the drive. Some of the most iconic geological attractions are Arch Rock, Natural Bridges, Secret Beach, Indian Sands Trail, etc.

Newport

Newport is a coastal city located along Central Oregon’s Pacific Coast. This city is famous for its views of migrating whales. During the migration season, the whales swim across the Yaquina Head making it a top sight for whale watching in Newport. The waters near Newport are a habitat for a variety of wildlife besides whales. Visitors can spot sea otters, elks, and eagles. 

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is where you can see all the marine life that lives off the Oregon Coast. The exhibits let you walk through the glass tunnels and children can see sharks and other marine life swim over their heads. Newport also has other attractions of a wax museum, historic bayfront district, and the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Devil’s Punch Bowl State Natural Area is located near Newport and famous for its collapsed sea cave bowl that churns sea waves. 

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area has the best sand dunes in Oregon and are in fact one of the largest dune systems in the entire world. The height of many of these sand dunes is almost 500 ft above sea level which makes them perfect for many recreational activities like horse riding, off-roading, sandboarding, and hiking. Other popular activities in the area include swimming at the beach, camping, photography, and more. The dunes are a result of natural wind erosion and water weathering which makes them a unique geological phenomenon. Sunrise and sunset among the dunes are magnificent. The nearby city of Florence is also worth a visit.

Salem

Salem is the capital of Oregon. It is located one hour south of Portland in the Willamette River valley. Oregon’s cherry-growing industry was once concentrated in and around Salem, leading to its name of the ‘Cherry City’. The city is settled on the banks of the Willamette River and is a peaceful city with many parks and gardens. Riverfront City Park is one of the most famous parks and is great to spend a day outdoors. Salem also has the oldest university on the West Coast of the United States. 

One of the highlights of a visit to Salem is the Oregon State Capitol building. The beautiful capitol building is made of marble and has artwork from artists all over the state. The Capitol is open to visitors and conducts free guided tours throughout the week. On a tour, visitors can admire the building and understand about Oregon’s history. Salem also has many historic buildings and museums to understand the heritage and history of the area.

Eugene

Eugene is the third-largest city in Oregon and it is as important a cultural destination as Portland. History-lovers should also visit Eugene at least once. Alton Baker Park, located along the banks of the Willamette River, is the largest park in the city. It has tracks for bicycling and jogging for the visitors. Other great parks and gardens are the Hendricks Park and Mount Pisgah Arboretum. 

The University of Oregon campus has great museums. The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art has a rich collection of Asian art. The Museum of Natural and Cultural History has many exhibits on the natural history of the Pacific Northwest.  Another great attraction is the Eugene Saturday market where you can listen to live music, eat international cuisines, and purchase from local artisans. Springfield, which is located across the river from Eugene, is also a great place to visit.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua is one of the most stunning places in Oregon. From coastal bluffs and wild cliffs to beautiful scenery and wildlife, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area has it all. It is located in Siuslaw National Forest along the coast. The main thing about it is its rainforest type conditions. The drive along it provides a wide view of the ocean. The Cape Perpetua Visitor Center has many exhibits about the geology and natural resources of the coast. 

Cape Perpetua has many lookout areas and trailheads located along the road. Visitors can see some of the famous Oregon coastal landmarks at Cape Perpetua including Spouting Chasm and Devil’s Churn. The most famous is the Cape Perpetua Lookout, which is the highest point along the coast that visitors can reach via car. Cape Perpetua is a place that the more you explore, the more you fall in love with. 

Oregon Caves National Monument

Oregon Caves National Monument is a natural wonder in Oregon. The cave is a collection of underground passages that are said to be 3 to 5 million years old. The cave is made of marble and contains stalagmites, stalactites, cave popcorn, and many other geological formations. Some of the cave chambers also contain fossils of animals that lived in the area many years ago. The area surrounding the caves is popular for hiking through old-growth forest and for spotting wildlife. 

Visitors can tour the caves with the rangers; the tour is perfect for those who seek adventure. Small kids are not allowed inside the caves and anyone has to be at least 42 inches tall to enter. The temperature inside the caves is always cool and carrying a jacket on the tour is a good idea. The half-mile walk through the caves is challenging but fun. You will climb almost 500 stairs. On the walk, you will walk through many cave chambers and rooms and see fascinating geological formations. The caves are open from spring to fall but the best time to visit them is during summer. 

Thor’s Well, Yachats

Located inside Cape Perpetua Natural Scenic Area near Yachats, Thor’s Well is a beautiful geological formation. Thor’s Well is included in the Seven Wonders of Oregon. This is a natural sinkhole that when filled with waves from the Pacific Ocean spouts out as a tall fountain before swallowing the water back into the hole. 

This series of events is spectacular to watch and is high on the bucket list of most visitors to Oregon. The best time to see Thor’s Well at its most magnificent is during high tide. However, the sinkhole is also extremely dangerous if you get too close to it and that’s why visitors should watch it from a safe distance. 

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a must for visitors who love natural history, fossils, and archeological sites. The monument preserves fossils of the animals and plants that lived here in ancient times. The monument comprises three geographically different park units known as Sheep Rock, Clarno, and Painted Hills. 

The monument has many hiking trails where visitors can observe naturally exposed fossils. The monument is located in eastern Oregon’s desert region that gets very cold during the winter. The best time to visit the monument is during summer when the weather is relatively dry. It can get hot as there is no shade and visitors should carry water for the hikes. 

Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Baker City

The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City is the best way to learn about the Oregon Trail. The Oregon Trail was a 2000 miles long route that started in Independence, Missouri and was used by the earliest settlers to discover the Pacific Northwest. Thousands of people migrated to the west via the Oregon Trail. The journey on the trail was not easy and it took at least five to six months to complete it. 

The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center explores the history of the trail through live demonstrations, exhibits, special events, and interpretive programs. At the museum, visitors can see films and videos about life on the trail and listen to stories of the pioneers, miners, explorers who first came to Oregon. 

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse is the most photographed lighthouse in Oregon. It stands on the 1000 foot high Heceta Head. It is named after the Spanish explorer, Bruno de Heceta, who surveyed the Oregon coast in the late 18th century. This lighthouse was completed in 1893 to help ships navigate the treacherous coast. The 56-foot-tall lighthouse is still working and its beam shines 21 miles out to the sea. This is the strongest light on the Oregon Coast. 

Today, the lighthouse and its surrounding beaches are a part of the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint. Visitors can hike a 1/2 miles long trail that climbs up 150 feet in elevation to reach the lighthouse. The views from the lighthouse are one of the best in Oregon. Visitors can tour the lighthouse lower levels with a ranger; access to the upper level and the lens is not permitted. The tour also takes visitors to see the assistant lightkeeper’s house. Visitors can see whales, sea lions, sea gulls, and cormorants from near the lighthouse. 

Tillamook

Tillamook is a coastal city located on the south end of Tillamook Bay. It offers a wide range of attractions for visitors to the city and the surrounding area. The city is famous for its parks, breweries, restaurants, and museums. Outdoor enthusiasts love Tillamook for its well-maintained hiking trails, crabbing, clamming, and fishing opportunities. The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, which has a fun 45 miles drive down the coast, is also easily accessible from Tillamook. 

If you want to find the best artisan food on the Oregon Coast, then you need to visit Tillamook. For dairy lovers, a visit to the famous Tillamook Creamery & Cheese Factory is a must. The company has a rich history and is open for self-guided tours to visitors. On the tour, you can view the cheese making process and sample popular American cheeses as well as eat delicious ice cream. 

Painted Hills

Painted Hills is one of the units that make up John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. The unit is located north of the town of Mitchell. The name comes from the beautiful color striations in the landscape. Painted Hills is also one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon. Most popular way to see this colorful landscape is via the Painted Hills Overlook Trail. In the afternoon, the colors on the hills look the most vibrant and resemble an alien landscape, making this the best time to visit Painted Hills. The colors also look best after a rainfall. The hills reflect the history of the earth and never fail to grasp the attention of earth lovers.

Other useful posts to plan your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Planner
Pacific Coast Highway 4 day Itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 5 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 7 day itinerary
Pacific Coast Highway 10 Day itinerary
All PCH Itineraries
Best Places to Stay along the Pacific Coast Highway
Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

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