9 Off-The-Beaten-Path Towns In Oregon
A central component of America鈥檚 beloved Pacific Northwest region, Oregon is an unquestionably beautiful destination full of rich natural splendor and fascinating cultural charm. Lovingly known as the 鈥淏eaver State,鈥� Oregon boasts awesome river, ocean, and mountain panoramas, while its historic allure brings guests back to the days of its early Statehood in the 1850s. And while the cities of Portland and Salem remain the best well known, Oregon is also home to a number of equally captivating communities considered 鈥渙ff the beaten path鈥�. Here, tons of beauty awaits, ranging from the natural to the cultural, and all with plenty of welcoming hospitality and small-town charm. When visiting Oregon then, do not forget about the other smaller towns and become acquainted with another side of the 鈥淏eaver State鈥�, that may be off the beaten path but is no less stellar and exciting in every way!
The Dalles
The seat of Wasco County along the border with Washington State, The Dalles is a marvelous place situated within the truly special Columbia River Gorge. Long the home of Native American peoples, The Dalles was formally established in the 1850s, and today, just under 16,000 residents call it home. An awesome vacation spot to enjoy both the wonder of nature and the intrigue of history, guests will definitely never be in short supply of amazing activities to do. Featuring hot summers and warm winters, being outside is always delightful here, and with the town鈥檚 vicinity to the aforementioned Columbia River Gorge, breathtaking sights are never far away. Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum, which guides guests through 10,000 years of natural history in a most extraordinary and photogenic ambiance.
Meanwhile, for history lovers, be sure to explore the Fort Dalles Historic Site and its time machine-like attractions. A replica of an 1850s US Army Outpost this immersive living history museum brings its visitors back to the days of the Oregon Territory and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And with a charming Main Street full of inviting businesses like the Beachwood Eatery (near the Columbia River), it is easy to see why The Dalles is such a gem of the 鈥淏eaver State鈥�.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is a pretty coastal community where a modest population of just around 1,500 reside; known for its cool Pacific Ocean breezes and stunning panoramas; this charming place is a wonderful destination to enjoy the outdoors and the friendly ambiance only a small town can provide. Go sailing, swimming, hiking, and biking, while the chance to participate in some water sports can excite the casual and passionate adventurers alike. Add in special wildlife sightings and rainforest-like vistas at the Ecola State Park, and visiting Cannon Beach will certainly seem like a dream-like setting. And with the imposing 235-foot-tall Haystack Rock reliably standing sentinel, great photos and videos are never in short supply. Finally, enjoy such annual cultural events like the Fourth of July Parade and the ever-popular Sand Castle Contest, which showcases extraordinary works of art and the very talented sculptors who create them!
Cottage Grove
Also known as the 鈥淐overed Bridge Capital of Oregon,鈥� the town of Cottage Grove was formally incorporated in the 1880s, and today, just over 10,500 inhabitants call it home. A photographer鈥檚 dream place, the town has earned its nickname with its rich panorama of the iconic American-covered bridges, including five that are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beyond the bridges, however, is a most charming town that features intriguing history and delightful natural vistas. Situated at the confluence of the Row and Coast Fork Willamette Rivers, lush greenery and peaceful scenery make the town an ideal spot to simply unwind and escape the busyness of big city life.
Enjoy beautiful cycling and hiking trails at Bohemia Trails while picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching charm all guests at the Row River Nature Park. And do not forget about the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway, where visitors can explore the town at their own leisurely pace and get up close to the beloved Bridges. Finally, such fascinating museum outings like the Bohemia Gold Mining Museum and the Oregon Aviation Historical Society shed light on the history of the State prior to and immediately following its admission to the Union in 1859.
Troutdale
Just 16 miles from the city of Portland, Troutdale enchants all ages of visitors with its stunning setting within the Columbia River Gorge. With a population of just over 16,000, this mid-sized town continues to maintain an old-fashioned ambiance more than a century after its founding in the early 1900s. Spend time at the Multnomah County Poor Farm (1911), which, since the 1990s, has been transformed into a central entertainment complex complete with movie theatres, bars, and stunning outdoor gardens. Meanwhile, with local businesses, including Bandit鈥檚 Bar & Grill and the Troutdale Market, a true sense of Americana can be felt.
Finally, for the outdoors lover, Troutdale will certainly not disappoint. With upwards of 20 parks, including Glenn Otto Park and Sunrise Park, there is always fun to be had in nature by cycling, hiking, and picnicking. With its close vicinity to the Columbia River Gorge and the Mount Hood Scenic Byway, visitors will definitely want to add Troutdale to their itineraries. Marvel at splendid River panoramas and breathtaking mountain landscapes in a climate known for its warm and dry summers and moderate winters.
Hood River
Located in the same county, Hood River is undoubtedly one of the finest outdoor destinations in Oregon. Near its namesake river and the mighty Columbia River, this modest of just over 8,000 inhabitants was formally established in the 1890s, and it remains an exciting and scenic place of wonder for all ages. Right in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, in addition to time spent along the water swimming, sailing, and fishing, one can enjoy awesome opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and even wildlife watching. Marvel at the picturesque Multnomah Falls and the Cascade Mountains, and then drive along the exquisite Columbia River Highway, where photographic memories are made to last a lifetime.
Additionally, such fun cultural events like the Hood River Valley Blossom Time and Harvest Fest provide amusement for the whole family, while fascinating museum spots include the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum. Add in several landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the special Cathedral Ridge Winery, and it is easy to see what makes Hood River such a well rounded gem of the 鈥淏eaver State鈥�.
Florence
Scenically located along the mouth of the Siuslaw River, the Pacific Coast town of Florence is a most charming place of natural and cultural beauty. Long the home of indigenous peoples but formally founded in the 1890s, today, just over 9,400 residents call this most scenic community their home. Spend time along the pretty Siuslaw River while spectacular views of the Ocean never go out of style in a climate known for its mild winters and summers. From there, visit the Oregon Dunes Recreation Area or the Sea Lion Caves, two uniquely stunning attractions that showcase some of the very best of Oregon鈥檚 natural landscape and wildlife. Finally, for some cultural and historic attractions, stop by the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum, located inside a schoolhouse built in 1905. Highlighting the region鈥檚 history, this is a most informative and delightful place to spend an afternoon. And with several landmarks included on the National Register of Historic Places, Florence鈥檚 living history is palpable. And do not forget about the marvelous Rhododendron Flower Festival, which celebrates the town鈥檚 special flowers and the beauty of the Pacific Coast every year. The 2025 festival runs from May 15th to the 18th.
Bandon
Bandon was founded in the 1800s by Irish settlers, and today, just over 3,300 reside there. Scenically along the Coquille River (leading to the Pacific Ocean), the town is known for its cool temperatures throughout the year, which makes it a comfortable pit stop from which to enjoy the Oregon coast. Admire Bandon鈥檚 special Ocean backdrop while golden sandy beaches and majestic rocky cliffs create picture-perfect memories. Amongst the natural landmarks of note include the Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint and the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. For a unique athletic outing, why not visit the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, featuring upwards of 121 holes set against truly breathtaking scenery?
Furthermore, with a cute assortment of restaurants and shops downtown, including the Ghost Tree Grill and the Big Wheel General Store, a charming slice of Americana can really be felt. Finally, if visiting in the Fall, be sure to take the splendid sights and smells of the Cranberry Festival in September. Running annually since the 1940s, this special event celebrates Bandon鈥檚 harvest and rich heritage in cranberry production and attracts thousands from all across the Oregon coast.
Rockaway Beach
Formally incorporated in the 1940s, the seaside resort town of Rockaway Beach never disappoints with its tremendous scenery and laid-back atmosphere. Home to just over 1,400 residents, this Tillamook County community features some seven miles of Pacific Ocean shoreline, and it continues to attract all ages of guests with its great beach offerings. Spend time at the Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site, where swimming, sailing, picnicking, and fishing have delighted tourists for decades, while splendid seafood options offer the freshest catch of the day against a most stunning backdrop.
These include the Old Oregon Smoke House and the Sand Dollar Restaurant. Finally, for the historically minded tourist, be sure to explore the historic district and its charming Main Street, and do not forget about the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. Transporting passengers all along the coast of Tillamook County in vintage caboose cars, this one excursion will definitely warm the hearts and minds of the young and old alike.
Silverton
Known as 鈥淥regon鈥檚 Garden City,鈥� the lovely Silverton traces its modern roots to the 1850s, and today, just under 10,400 reside here. And with the pretty Silver Creek flowing through (which later joins the Pudding and Willamette Rivers), a quiet and charming ambiance is always on hand here. Browse through the numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants all along the Creek for a quaint and welcoming slice of small-town USA. These include eateries like Mac鈥檚 Place and The Noble Fox, while The Wild Dandelion gift shop is the perfect locale to bring back a special part of Oregon home.
Add in mild winter and warm summer temperatures and no matter what time of year, Silverton is simply a delight to experience. And with nearby landmarks like the Silver Falls State Park and the 80 acre Oregon Botanic Garden, photogenic moments are always on hand.
Oregon, or the 鈥淏eaver State,鈥� is a wondrous destination that forms a key part of the beloved Pacific Northwest region. Known for its natural beauty, its coastal allure, and its cultural and historic ambiance, Oregon is indeed one of the best places to explore for a family and solo vacation alike. However, while major cities like Portland, Salem, and Eugene will always attract their share of attention, the many 鈥渙ff the beaten path鈥� communities should also be on the list of destinations to visit. It is here that some of the very best of the State can be experienced and where nature, history, and community charm come together to create a lasting impression. From the coastal splendor of Bandon, Rockaway Beach, and Cannon Beach to the historic centers of The Dalles and Cottage Grove, when visiting these Oregon towns, fun and relaxation are always in abundance. Wait no longer; come visit Oregon and add these splendid towns to the itinerary, and see why the 鈥淏eaver State鈥� stands as a true gem of the Pacific Northwest.
