The places, most named first
From the 7 guides that rank for "best places to visit in oregon"
Named by 5 of 71. Columbia River GorgeAmerica's largest National Scenic Area, with waterfalls dropping over basalt cliffs.The scenic area stretches 80 miles along the river, and the Historic Columbia River Highway is a drive.
Named by 5 of 72. Oregon CoastThe coast runs over 360 miles; Highway 101 has many scenic stops.Early spring brings fewer tourists along the coast.
Named by 4 of 73. Crater Lake National ParkIt holds the deepest lake in the US, formed when a volcano collapsed.Rim Drive is 33 miles with 30 viewpoints; roads can close from November through April.
Named by 3 of 74. Cannon BeachThe most popular stop on the coast, known for Haystack Rock.Ecola State Park's Indian Beach Trail takes about an hour and a half.
Named by 2 of 75. BendA city with a strong brewery scene that warrants at least a weekend, near Smith Rock State Park.Mt. Bachelor, the state's largest ski resort, is 30 minutes away.Named by 2 of 76. PortlandA bike-friendly city with distinct neighborhoods and Powell's City of Books.The International Rose Test Garden is just outside the center and free to enter.
Named by 2 of 77. Mt. HoodOregon's tallest mountain, rising above a large national forest.Several trails reopened this fall, while burn-area trails stay shut until Dec 31.
Named by 2 of 78. Smith Rock State ParkAbout 26 miles from Bend, famous for tall rock walls and popular for climbing.It is part of the High Desert, so it is usually warm and dry.
Named by 2 of 79. Multnomah FallsA 611-foot waterfall about 30 miles east of Portland, open year-round.A timed entry permit for parking may be needed in summer.
Named by 2 of 710. Oregon DunesDune buggy rides run in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, reachable from Highway 101.Dunes span miles along the coast, and buggies can reach shoreline not open on foot.
Named by 2 of 711. BandonKnown for its beach, with tide pools and caves.The southern coast is often overlooked but has sea stacks and dunes.
Named by 2 of 712. Coos BayOne of the coast towns a road-tripper stopped in, with Gold Beach and Florence.A holiday lights event runs Nov 26 to Dec 31 with timed entry.
13. Painted HillsStriped layers of red, gold and black soil, 9 miles northwest of Mitchell.Late afternoon light brings out the colors; spring adds wildflowers.
14. FlorenceHas a downtown with good local restaurants and sits by the dunes.Best time to visit Florence
15. Gold BeachA southern coast stop on a ten-day Oregon trip.
16. Oregon Caves National MonumentAn underground attraction in southern Oregon.
17. Wallowa MountainsAlpine summits and green fields, compared to Switzerland, with craft beer and galleries in towns.
18. AstoriaA harbor town reached by the Astoria-Megler Bridge.
19. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic CorridorA stretch of southwest coast with viewpoints and short trails; plan 3 to 4 hours.
20. Cape PerpetuaA scenic stop on Highway 101 along with Thor's Well.
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When to go
Travel guides don't agree on one best time to visit Oregon; its page has the weather and what's on, month by month.
