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.
1. Joseph
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.
2. Yachats
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.
3. Sisters
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.
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4. Cannon Beach
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.
5. Cottage Grove (from USD 129)
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.
Best Western Cottage Grove Inn
Address: 1601 Gateway Blvd
Accommodates: 6
Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Business centre Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Free parking Internet services
6. Newport (from USD 208)
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.
Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection
Address: 232 Southwest Elizabeth Street
Accommodates: 4
Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Free parking
7. Pendleton (from USD 127)
Reasonable pricing for a convenient location near the freeway and downtown Pendleton.
Clean and well-maintained rooms, comfortable beds, and a nice swimming pool.
Conveniently located off the freeway, with easy access to downtown Pendleton and the casino.
Adequate breakfast options, though some inconsistency in food availability and quality due to COVID-19 restrictions.
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!
Best Western Pendleton Inn
Address: 400 Southeast Nye Avenue
Accommodates: 6
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)
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.
Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay
Address: 1313 North Bayshore Drive
Accommodates: 10
Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Dry cleaning Facilities for disabled guests
9. Lincoln City (from USD 149)
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.
Pelican Shores Inn
Address: 2645 Northwest Inlet Ave
Accommodates: 4
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)
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.
McMinnville Inn
Address: 381 Northest Highway 99
Accommodates: 4
Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Garden Non-smoking rooms Business centre Free parking Internet services
11. Astoria (from USD 152)
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.
Hotel Elliott
Address: 357 12th Street
Accommodates: 4
Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Internet services Lift Heating Fax/photocopying WiFi Available
12. Hood River (from USD 119)
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.
Westcliff Lodge
Address: 4070 Westcliff Drive
Accommodates: 4
Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing
13. The Dalles (from USD 89)
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.
The Dalles Inn
Address: 112 West Second Street
Accommodates: 5
Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Fishing Laundry
14. Baker City (from USD 239)
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.
Geiser Grand Hotel
Address: 1996 Main Street
Accommodates: 8
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre
15. Jacksonville (from USD 219)
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms and high-quality amenities
Bikes, umbrellas, 24-hour pantry, deluxe coffee machine, electric bikes, picnic baskets, gym access
Prime location in the heart of Jacksonville, close to shops, restaurants, and the Britt Festival
Excellent pantry offerings, nearby dining options, and upcoming restaurant/cafe
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.
McCully House Inn
Address: 240 East California Street
Accommodates: 2
Parking Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Non-smoking rooms Fishing Free parking Internet services Express check-in/check-out
16. Silverton (from USD 119)
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.
Oregon Garden Resort
Address: 895 West Main Street
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km)
17. Klamath Falls (from USD 86)
Reasonable rates, good value for money, economical pricing
Pet-friendly, clean rooms, comfortable beds, spacious accommodations, convenient location, quiet and well-lit property
Central location, close to restaurants, shopping centers, and food options, easy access, proximity to town
Amazing breakfast, plentiful selection, good dining options nearby, friendly and helpful staff
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.
Cimarron Inn Klamath Falls
Address: 3060 South 6th Street
Accommodates: 4
Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Business centre Laundry Dry cleaning
18. Carlton
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.
R. R. Thompson House
Address: 517 North Kutch Street Box 443
19. Ashland (from USD 135)
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.
Palm Cottages
Address: 1065 SISKIYOU BLVD
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.