By Welcome to Oregon, the “Beaver State,” where stunning landscapes and pristine nature meet vibrant cities and culinary diversity. Oregon is a dream destination for those seeking the adventure of a road trip, wanting to experience the beauty of nature, and longing for authentic cultural experiences. From the wild beauty of the Pacific Ocean to the majestic peaks of the Cascade Mountains, Oregon offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history, explore the lively cities, and discover the culinary treasures of this diverse state. Here are some reasons why Oregon is an absolute must for your next vacation.
Discover Oregon’s natural beauty
Oregon is a paradise for nature lovers. The spectacular coastline offers dramatic views, hidden coves and picturesque lighthouses. The Cascade Mountains invite you to hike, ski and explore, while idyllic lakes and impressive waterfalls like Multnomah Falls invite you to linger and marvel. Crater Lake National Park , known for its deep blue water and stunning scenery, is a highlight that you shouldn’t miss.
Vibrant cities and cultural diversity
Portland, Oregon’s largest city, is the heart of the state and is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, innovative food culture, and love of coffee. The city embodies the spirit of Oregon with its friendly atmosphere, numerous parks, and a strong community that values sustainability and creativity. Other cities like Eugene , Salem , and Bend offer their own unique charms and are ideal bases for exploring Oregon’s diversity.
Culinary Discoveries
Oregon is a foodie’s paradise. The state’s rich agricultural tradition ensures fresh, local ingredients are used to create innovative dishes in the many restaurants and cafes. From fresh seafood along the coast to Portland’s famous food trucks, Oregon offers a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds. The thriving craft beer and wine scene also offers the perfect opportunity to try local beverages.
Welcoming communities and relaxed atmosphere
Oregonians are known for their friendly and laid-back nature. Communities across the state are welcoming to visitors and happy to share their love for this special place. Whether you’re wandering through the charming small towns or exploring the bustling streets of the big cities, you’ll quickly feel at home.
Why visit Oregon?
Oregon is a state that enchants every visitor with its natural beauty, cultural diversity and welcoming atmosphere. It is a place where history comes alive, adventure awaits you and culinary delights enrich your vacation. Oregon offers a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal destination for those looking for something special.
Flag
The Oregon flag, adopted in 1925, is unique in that it is the only state flag in the United States to feature two different designs on the front and back, reflecting Oregon’s diverse culture and history.
The obverse of the flag features the state coat of arms on a dark blue background. The coat of arms includes a shield with various elements, including a covered wagon (a symbol of the Oregon Trail pioneers), a British lion and an American eagle representing the claimed territories, and other symbols representing Oregon’s natural resources and economy.
The reverse of the flag features a golden image of a beaver, as Oregon is also known as the “Beaver State.” This animal is a symbol of the fur trade, which played an important role in the state’s early history.
| Capital city | Salem |
|---|---|
| Area | 255,000 km² |
| In the USA since | February 14, 1859 |
| Resident | 4.2 million |
| time zone | Pacific Time Zone (PT)UTC -8:00 / -7:00 |
| Left: | oregon.gov |
Unforgettable experiences in Oregon: From coastal cliffs to Crater Lake
Columbia River Gorge
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this gorge that stretches along the mighty Columbia River. Here you will find majestic waterfalls such as Multnomah Falls, which with its imposing height is one of Oregon’s most popular attractions. Hike along the numerous hiking trails and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Crater Lake National Park
This national park is home to the deepest lake in the USA, Crater Lake. The lake is located in an extinct volcano and is characterized by its bright blue color. Take a boat trip or explore the area on the scenic hiking trails.
The Oregon Coast
The Oregon coast stretches for more than 550 kilometers and offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Discover picturesque coastal towns such as Cannon Beach with its famous Haystack Rock or drive along the stunning coastal road Highway 101.
Mount Hood
Climb Oregon’s highest mountain for breathtaking views of surrounding glaciers and scenic hiking trails. In winter, the mountain transforms into a popular ski resort, while in summer, hiking, climbing and mountain biking take center stage.
National Parks, State Parks,
In harmony with nature: Oregon’s national parks and city parks
Oregon is home to an abundance of national parks and city parks that reflect the state’s pristine natural beauty. Here are some other notable natural havens you should definitely visit:
- Crater Lake National Park is a truly spectacular place. Surrounded by steep cliffs, the deep blue crater lake is the result of a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the lookouts along Rim Drive or explore the hiking trails that lead you to hidden coves and impressive viewpoints.
- Mount Hood National Forest offers a wealth of outdoor activities amidst a scenic mountain landscape. Climb majestic Mount Hood, which rises over 11,000 feet, and enjoy a variety of hiking and mountain biking opportunities. The forest also offers numerous campgrounds, fishing lakes, and abundant wildlife.
- Smith Rock State Park is a paradise for climbers and hikers. The imposing rock formations and cliffs offer challenges for experienced climbers and breathtaking views for hikers. Along the scenic Crooked River, you can explore hiking trails that lead you to hidden gorges and waterfalls.
- Silver Falls State Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls. The park is home to South Falls, an impressive 170-foot waterfall that cascades down from behind a rocky cliff face. Explore the scenic hiking trails that take you behind the waterfall and discover the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
- Painted Hills National Monument is a truly unique place. Here you will find colorful hills that look like a painted work of art. The vibrant colors created by mineral deposits create a surreal landscape. Explore the hiking trails and take home impressive photos of this fascinating place.
cities
Oregon’s Urban Magic: Portland, Eugene and Bend
Oregon is also home to some fascinating cities to explore. Here are three cities you shouldn’t miss on your trip:
- Portland is known for its vibrant culture, which is characterized by art, music, and a thriving food scene. Immerse yourself in the hip vibe of neighborhoods like the Pearl District and Alberta Arts District. Visit the world-famous Portland Saturday Market, which features local crafts and culinary delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the best food trucks in the country.
- Eugene , also known as “Track Town, USA,” is a charming college town known for its sports culture and eco-friendliness. Visit the Museum of Natural and Cultural History to learn about Oregon’s unique history, or explore the scenic hiking and biking trails along the Willamette River. The Eugene Saturday Market is a great place to discover local arts, crafts, and fresh produce.
- Bend is an outdoor enthusiast town characterized by scenic mountains and a laid-back atmosphere. The town is a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers and skiers. Explore the Bend Ale Trail and sample local craft beers from renowned breweries. Relax in the natural hot springs of Belknap or climb the peaks of the surrounding mountains for breathtaking views.
Places Worth Seeing
Discover Oregon’s hidden treasures beyond the cities
Aside from the cities and national parks, Oregon has many other places worth seeing that will make your visit worthwhile. Here are some more highlights:
- The Oregon Dunes : Experience the impressive sand dunes along the coast and enjoy activities such as sandboarding or dune bashing in an off-road vehicle.
- The scenic Willamette Valley wine regions: Enjoy a wine tasting tour through the numerous wineries and sample the award-winning wines from the Willamette Valley.
- The City of Ashland : Attend the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which offers world-class theater performances each year, or explore the charming downtown area with its art galleries and boutiques.
- Historic Jacksonville : Immerse yourself in the history of the Wild West, visit the well-preserved Victorian buildings and enjoy live music and festivals in this charming city.
The History of Oregon
The fascinating history of Oregon: From pioneers to hippie culture
Oregon’s history is closely tied to the expansion of the American West. The region was an important destination for fur traders, settlers and gold seekers traveling along the Oregon Trail in the 19th century. The Oregon Trail played a crucial role in the settlement of the West and was a major trade route that attracted thousands of people to the region.
Oregon joined the United States in 1859 as the 33rd state. During the 20th century, Oregon developed into a center for innovation and progress. The region became known for its environmental awareness and focus on sustainability.
Today, you can still discover traces of the past in historic cities like Oregon City and Astoria. Historic sites, museums and monuments tell the fascinating story of the state and offer insights into the pioneer era.
Oregon’s Flavor Adventures: From Seafood to Craft Beers
Oregon is known for its culinary diversity and high-quality local products. Here are some culinary highlights that you should definitely try:
- Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood along the coast, including delicious oysters, crab and salmon.
- Craft Beers: Oregon is famous for its craft beer scene. Visit one of the many breweries in Portland or Bend and sample a variety of craft beers.
- Farm-to-table cuisine: Oregon is proud of its agricultural tradition and places a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy dishes made with fresh vegetables, berries, mushrooms and cheese.
- Food Trucks: Portland is famous for its vibrant food truck scene. Sample a wide range of international cuisines, including Mexican, Thai, Lebanese, and more.
Where to Stay in Oregon
Oregon offers a variety of places to stay, from urban hotels in Portland to cozy coastal cabins and mountain lodges. The price range for accommodations varies depending on location and season.
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Portland: The city is home to numerous hotels and boutique accommodations that offer a wide range of prices, from budget options starting at $100 per night to more upscale accommodations that can cost $250 and more.
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Oregon Coast: There are many vacation rentals, hotels and bed and breakfasts along the coast, with prices that can range from $150 to over $300 per night in high season, especially for ocean view accommodations.
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Willamette Valley: The wine region offers charming bed and breakfasts and winery accommodations, with prices ranging from $150 to $250 per night, often including wine tastings and special experiences.
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Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood: For nature lovers, cabins, lodges and campsites are available, with prices that vary depending on amenities and location.
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Camping: Oregon offers numerous camping options in its state parks and national forests, providing an inexpensive and nature-based alternative to staying overnight. Prices for campsites typically range from $20 to $40 per night.
facts
7 Interesting Facts About Oregon
- Oregon is one of the few states in the US where refueling vehicles by trained personnel is mandatory. Self-service filling stations are the exception.
- Mount Hood, a popular destination for outdoor activities, is an active volcano and is considered a potentially dangerous volcano.
- Oregon has a rich hippie history and was a center of the counterculture movement in the 1960s and 1970s.
- The Timberline Trail, a loop trail around Mount Hood, offers breathtaking views and is a popular challenge for experienced hikers.
- There are over 200 wineries in Oregon and the region is known for its excellent Pinot Noir wines.
- The Oregon Zoo in Portland is the oldest zoo west of the Mississippi and is home to a variety of animal species from around the world.
- The Pendleton Round-Up, one of the oldest rodeo events in the United States, takes place every September in Pendleton and attracts thousands of visitors.
reasons
6 Reasons to Visit Oregon
- Outdoor adventure: Oregon offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, skiing, rafting and fishing. Explore the diverse landscape, climb majestic mountains and discover remote lakes and rivers.
- Natural Beauty: From the scenic coastline with its impressive cliffs and sandy beaches to the spectacular national parks and forests, Oregon offers a stunning natural setting that will delight any nature lover.
- Urban flair: Oregon’s cities like Portland, Eugene and Bend offer a vibrant cultural life with an abundance of art galleries, music festivals, restaurants and a lively craft beer scene.
- Culinary Delights: Sample the fresh seafood along the coast, discover the diverse farm-to-table cuisine, and explore the many wineries and breweries Oregon has to offer.
- Friendly atmosphere: The people of Oregon are known for their friendly and relaxed nature, which makes your stay a warm and welcoming experience.
- History and Culture: Immerse yourself in Oregon’s fascinating history, visit historic sites, museums and monuments, and experience the state’s vibrant cultural scene.
travel tips
insider tips for Oregon
- Powell’s City of Books, Portland: Be enchanted by the largest independent bookstore in the world. It stretches across an entire city block and even if you’re not the biggest bookworm, this place will fascinate you.
Insider tip: go to the rare book section, it’s like a small museum with books dating back to the 15th century. - Coffee Break in Eugene : Eugene has a passionate coffee scene that is often overlooked. You can try a local coffee at Vero Espresso Haus while enjoying a relaxing morning.
- Wallowa Region: Many tourists visit Crater Lake and Mount Hood, but the Wallowa Region is a hidden gem that is often overlooked. The views of the snow-capped peaks of the Wallowa Mountains are simply breathtaking.
- Ghost Town Shaniko: This old ghost town gives a truly unique feeling of Wild West history. You can visit the old hotel, the old school and even the prison. A real insider tip!
- Terwilliger Hot Springs: Located in the Willamette National Forest, these hot springs are the perfect place to relax after a long day of adventure. The natural pools have a range of temperatures, so you can find the perfect one for you.
- Wines: Oregon is known for its excellent Pinot Noirs. You can go wine tasting at one of the many wineries in the Willamette Valley. A personal favorite is Sokol Blosser Winery, known not only for its wine but also for its beautiful location and architecture.
- Rogue River: Grab a raft or kayak and venture down the Rogue River for a day of fun and adventure. You can even go on a multi-day rafting trip and camp in the wilderness.