19 Beautiful Small Towns In Oregon - Updated 2024

small towns in oregon
Seema
Seema 
Updated
| 6 min read

Do you yearn to hike in autumn forests, breathe the fresh mountain air, be humbled by majestic snow-clad peaks, and be bewitched by a magical natural wonderland? Then Oregon is the perfect travel destination for you. Sandwiched between Washington and California, Oregon has everything from mountains and valleys to beaches and high deserts. From the west to the east, each town here has something new to offer be it ocean vistas, tree-lined hills, historical architecture, interesting cultures, or stunning mountain vistas. One of the best ways to explore this state is through its picturesque towns – each with a distinct charm. Here’s a list of the best small towns in Oregon for you to plan your next getaway. While you’re at it, have a look at the best vacation rentals and ranches in Oregon, too.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 02, 2024.

1. Joseph

Joseph OR - aerial
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sam Beebe used under CC BY 2.0

Surrounded by the breathtaking Wallowa mountain range, the town of Joseph is a charming little paradise in Oregon. Often dubbed the “Little Switzerland in America,” Joseph offers a wide variety of activities to guests. Outdoor enthusiasts will love going on hikes in the town’s emerald-green valleys, climbing the high mountain passes, and kayaking on the Snake River and Wallowa Lake.

If you’re an art lover, you can go on an Art Walk around town. This activity lets you marvel at several bronze sculptures, which are all either life-size or larger-than-life. For food connoisseurs, they’ll take delight in the many local restaurants serving delicious dishes.

Stayed at this property?

2. Yachats

Yachats, Oregon - Green Salmon Coffee Co. 01
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Joe Mabel used under CC BY 4.0

Yachats gets its name from the Siletz language, which translates to “dark water at the foot of the mountain.” True enough, this town is located on the base of the Oregon Coast Range, with the Pacific Ocean right in front of it. Because of this, locals and tourists alike enjoy strolling along the beach to take in the scenery. You can even spot a gray whale swimming near the shores if you’re lucky.

In addition to the ocean, Yachats also has forests, woodlands, and wetlands that are rich in biodiversity, making this town an attractive place for many nature lovers. And if you’re looking for more fun activities, you can simply head downtown and check out the many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues there.

Stayed at this property?

3. Sisters

Sisters main street
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Finetooth used under CC BY-SA 3.0

This charming town in Oregon is popular for the plethora of outdoor activities it has to offer. With its impressive 260-mile (418.43-kilometer)-network of trails and 281,000 acres (113716.77 hectares) of land area, the town’s Three Sisters Wilderness offers a one-of-a-kind experience with nature. See the Cascade peaks, discover majestic waterfalls, and see breathtaking views of alpine meadows and wildflowers as you hike along. You can also time your visit so you can take part in one of their festivals!

You have the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show, which showcases different quilts from all over the world. If you want something thrilling, the Sisters Rodeo might be for you.

Stayed at this property?

4. Cannon Beach

The Needles, Cannon Beach, OR
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Steven Pavlov used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Enjoy a beach getaway in this small coastal city in Oregon, which offers miles of beautiful beaches accented with stunning rock formations and accessible to viewpoints so you can marvel at the beauty of the sea. While the natural offerings of the city are a reason to visit on its own, its art scene is a definite bonus. One of the Northwest’s top art towns, make sure to visit one of its 15 art galleries or join an art festival such as Stormy Weather Arts Festival and Spring Unveiling Arts Festival.

Stayed at this property?

5. Cottage Grove (from USD 119)

Cottage Grove Historic District
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Visitor7 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Having already received two All-American City awards, Cottage Grove is one of the best choices for a getaway in Oregon. It is known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the West” and is a great place to take the kids for a ride as it is a bicycle-friendly town. A couple of the major events held in the area are the Bohemia Mining Days and the Western Oregon Exposition Heritage Fair and Logging Show. This town may be small and idyllic, but it does offer plenty of things to do for visitors. Museums like Cottage Grove Historical Museum feature vintage artifacts, including an article of clothing worn by a Titanic wreck survivor.

Stayed at this property?

Best Western Cottage Grove Inn

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1601 Gateway Blvd
133.93 km (83.3 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Business centre Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Free parking Internet services

6. Newport (from USD 160)

Newport
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Becherka used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Located on Oregon’s central coast, Newport is a great destination for your getaway if you’re into the idyllic marina life. Some of the major attractions you’ll find in this charming city are Oregon Coast Aquarium, Yaquina Bay Bridge, and Yaquina Bay State Park, where the 1871 lighthouse is located. If you’re looking for a mellow town with a tight-knit community rich in culture and camaraderie, you’ve come to the right place. Long walks on the beach, crabbing, and dining at popular Mo’s restaurant are some must-dos here.

Stayed at this property?

Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 232 SW Elizabeth St
108.28 km (67.3 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Free parking

Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

7. Pendleton (from USD 123)

Downtown Pendleton, Oregon
Source: Photo by Flickr user Ken Lund used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Pendleton is keeping the Wild West dreams alive in the Blue Mountains of Eastern Oregon, with its rural community that thrives in agriculture. If you are the outdoorsy type, this town is exactly your type of playground. The area is known for the Pendleton Round-Up rodeo, as well as activities like hunting, skiing, fishing, snowshoeing, and many more. This is not to say that there’s not another side to Pendleton, because the town does have a vibrant arts culture, too!

Stayed at this property?

Best Western Pendleton Inn

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 400 Southeast Nye Avenue
322.38 km (200.4 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Business centre Facilities for disabled guests Family rooms

8. Coos Bay (from USD 100)

Coos Bay bridge
Source: Photo by Flickr user Oregon State Univ... used under CC BY-SA 2.0

One of the best places to visit on the coast of Oregon is Coos Bay. It’s definitely worthy of being your next getaway. This thriving harbor isn’t just all about the beautiful coast, the arts scene is as energetic as it gets as well. If you’re the artsy type looking for a quiet destination that still has great things to offer in terms of the arts, you really shouldn’t miss this place. The famous Marshfield District houses various theaters, art galleries, restaurants, parks, and quirky shops.

Stayed at this property?

Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1313 North Bayshore Drive
212.93 km (132.4 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Dry cleaning Facilities for disabled guests

Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

9. Lincoln City (from USD 129)

Tranquil, Lincoln City Oregon
Source: Photo by Flickr user EyeMindSoul used under CC BY 2.0

Lincoln City is one of the best destinations for families who want to stay along Oregon’s coast where there’s plenty of things to do for everyone, especially children. Flying kites is a popular activity in this scenic coastal town that actually hosts two kite festivals: Summer Kite Festival and Fall Kite Festival. Nature walks at Connie Hansen Garden Conservancy and surfing on Nelscott Reef are some of the outdoor activities that really hook tourists when visiting this lovely town.

Stayed at this property?

Pelican Shores Inn

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 2645 Northwest Inlet Ave
96.36 km (59.9 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Family rooms Free parking Internet services

10. McMinnville (from USD 89)

Downtown McMinnville Oregon 3rd and Davis
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user M.O. Stevens used under CC BY 3.0

Set in the heart of Willamette Valley, famous for Pinot Noir, is the historical town of McMinnville. Spend a major chunk of your stay in the historical district of McMinnville - a charming nine-block area with over 64 well-preserved historical buildings. Stroll through lanes flanked with maple trees; explore Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum; relax in cafes and breweries, and enjoy hearty meals at farm-to-table restaurants. McMinnville hosts numerous events all year through including an annual UFO Festival in May.

Stayed at this property?

McMinnville Inn

Wifi Available

Address: 381 Northest Highway 99
40.78 km (25.4 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Garden Non-smoking rooms Business centre Free parking Internet services

11. Astoria (from USD 189)

Albert W. Ferguson House - Astoria, Oregon
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Steve Morgan used under CC BY-SA 3.0

A pretty town by the Columbia River, Astoria was named after John Jacob Astoria, an investor from New York, who built Fort Astoria about 207 years ago. This quaint town with its stately Victorian homes, picture-postcard views, and delicious seafood is easy to fall in love with. There are plenty of activities for those who love being outdoors, with many hiking trails and forest walks. If you want to learn the history of the town, visit the Heritage Museum. End your days on a peaceful note at one of the many charming restaurants by the pier.

Stayed at this property?

Hotel Elliott

Wifi Available

Address: 357 12th Street
155.51 km (96.7 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Internet services Lift Heating Fax/photocopying WiFi Available

12. Hood River (from USD 109)

Hood River Bridge
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sam Beebe used under CC BY 2.0

Hood River is a lively town popular among hikers, skiers, and bikers for its stunning location in the Columbia river gorge with both Mount Hood and the Columbia River close by. You’ll see a melange of spectacular views here from majestic snowy mountains to valleys of wildflowers, from fruit-laden orchards to charming vineyards. For a high adrenaline holiday, there are adventure sports like windsurfing and kite surfing. This mountain town in Oregon also boasts award-winning restaurants and breweries.

Stayed at this property?

Westcliff Lodge

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 4070 Westcliff Drive
124.88 km (77.6 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing

13. The Dalles (from USD 79)

The Dalles, Oregon (looking north to Googleville) - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sam Beebe/Ecotrust used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Dalles straddles the eastern entrance to the Columbia river gorge. It was named by French-Canadian trappers who called it ‘dalles,’ a French word for rapids of a river through a narrow gorge. Sun-drenched and peaceful, it makes for a perfect weekend getaway. Walk in the grassy prairies of Tom McCall Preserve, buy a book from Oregon’s oldest bookstore, learn about regional plant and wildlife at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum, have a family barbeque at Sorosis Park, or bike along the riverfront trail.

Stayed at this property?

The Dalles Inn

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 112 West Second Street
142.46 km (88.6 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Fishing Laundry

14. Baker City (from USD 169)

City Hall (Baker City, Oregon)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Visitor7 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Once termed the ‘Queen City of the Inland Empire’ in the 19th and 20th century, today Baker City is one of the most prominent towns along the historic Oregon Trail. Heritage architecture, boutiques and shops, and restaurants make the town’s historic district the most popular haunt for visitors. To dive into the history of the town, spend an afternoon at the Baker Heritage Museum and National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. For a taste of the great outdoors, go on one of the many hiking, cycling, or fishing trails nearby.

Stayed at this property?

Geiser Grand Hotel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1996 Main Street, Baker City, Baker City (OR), United States, 97814
391.36 km (243.2 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre

15. Jacksonville (from USD 219)

Jacksonville Oregon Museum
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Geographer used under CC BY 2.5

Quaint Jacksonville is a delightful mix of old-school American charm and the Gold Rush history. Life slows down here so that you can live a good life with food, wine, scenic surroundings, and warm hospitality. Hike along the mountain trails nearby, explore the boutiques and fine dining in the downtown, tour one of the many family-run wineries. For wine lovers, there are six exquisite Jacksonville Wineries with tasting rooms and the scenic Applegate Wine Trail to explore. You can also plan to visit during the Britt Fest outdoor concert held all summer long.

Stayed at this property?

McCully House Inn

Wifi Available

Address: 240 East California Street
298.52 km (185.5 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Non-smoking rooms Fishing Free parking Internet services Express check-in/check-out

16. Silverton (from USD 90)

Silverton Oregon 2
Source: Photo by user Edmund Garman used under CC BY 2.0

Nestled near Salem, on Hwy. 213, is Oregon’s garden city – Silverton. This historical town is the gateway to Oregon’s largest state park, Silver Falls State Park. Go on the famous Trail of Ten Falls where you get to walk behind a 177-foot waterfall. To take a break from outdoor adventures, visit interesting art galleries in the downtown. Enjoy the small-town charms here like tree-lined neighborhoods, artistic murals, fragrant gardens, quaint homes, and some refreshing beer.

Stayed at this property?

Oregon Garden Resort

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 895 W Main St
539 meters (0.4 ft) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km)

Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

17. Klamath Falls (from USD 77)

Klamath Falls downtown
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bobjgalindo used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Earlier known as Linkville, the sunny city of Klamath Falls is far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this cute town in Oregon, you can hike along the river, do some bird watching in Wood River Wetland, take a romantic boat tour with your partner, or explore one of the many well-marked trails here such as the Sky Lakes Trail. For history buffs, there are several museums to visit, historical walks, and a quaint Trolley ride reminiscent of the city’s beginnings along the Oregon Trail.

Stayed at this property?

Cimarron Inn Klamath Falls

Wifi Available

Address: 3060 South 6th Street
320.87 km (199.4 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Business centre Laundry Dry cleaning

18. Carlton

Main Street in Carlton Oregon
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user M.O. Stevens used under CC BY 3.0

Carlton is Oregon’s Pinot Noir paradise with romantic vine-covered valleys, engaging wine tours, quaint bed and breakfasts, beautifully restored cottages, and over two dozen wine tasting rooms in the historic downtown. Spend an evening on Main Street, exploring boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms. You’ll find a superb selection of organic cheese, artisan chocolates and desserts, fresh meats, and spicy preserves to choose from. This sleepy little village with its fine dining, gorgeous natural setting, and warm hospitality makes for an indulgent weekend getaway.

Stayed at this property?

19. Ashland (from USD 135)

Grainger House (Ashland, Oregon)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Visitor7 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Ashland, one of the prettiest towns in Oregon, is a relaxed artsy community town in the Rogue Valley near the California border. Surrounded by the majestic Siskiyou and Cascade mountain ranges, this town offers some great views, wine tastings, and mountain trails. However, the soul of the town is in its art and culture - you can browse through the many charming art galleries here, watch a few shows in the local theatres, and buy unique souvenirs at boutiques. If you are planning a visit, try to make it for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, held from February through early November. This 82-year-old tradition is a very popular local festival.

Stayed at this property?

Palm Cottages

Address: 1065 SISKIYOU BLVD
312.18 km (194.0 mi) from The Oregon Garden

Pool/beach towels Children television networks Air conditioning Daily housekeeping Sun terrace Private parking Express check-in/check-out Luggage storage

Small towns with big hearts

Oregon’s geography is varied and wonderful with everything from beaches to mountains to deserts. The smaller towns here reflect this rich natural and geographical heritage in a quiet and laidback fashion. Oregonians are spirited and welcoming people who love the outdoors and their home passionately. Stay in one of these Oregonian towns to experience the hospitality, culture, and beauty of this state at a leisurely pace.

Stayed at this property?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Seema Misra is an artist and writer. She has over nine years of experience in various writing fields including instructional design, editing, technical writing, business writing, travel writing,...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Explore Oregon
Looking for accommodation?
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.