Top 22 Things To Do In Florence, Oregon

1. Learn about military history at Oregon Coast Military Museum

Browse through the artifacts, combat vehicles & life-sized dioramas devoted to various conflicts at the Oregon Coast Military Museum. This museum is for all ages and is a great place for those who are fond of discovering the history of military veterans. Oregon Coast Military Museum offers interactive and engaging learning experiences for the visitors.

Oregon Coast Military Museum

Address: 2145 Kingwood St, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Oregon Coast Military Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 12am - 4pm (Closed on Mon & Tue)

Price: 5 USD

2. Get your feet moving by hiking the Hobbit Trail

Your vacation in Florence, Oregon, is already a perfect stress-reliever, but you can increase the power of that stress relief through hiking. When you’re in Florence, Oregon, hike through the scenic Hobbit Trail. This trail will make you feel that you are in a different world because of the breathtaking lush forests you’ll see. In the middle of hiking, you may set up a picnic, meditate, or do some low-impact exercises. Before starting the trail, you may have some fun at the Hobbit Beach because it’s the starting point of the trail.

Hobbit Trail

Address: 91892-91974 Oregon Coast Hwy, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Hobbit Trail

Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)

3. Marvel at the views from the Heceta Head Lighthouse

After hiking from the Hobbit Trail, don’t forget to unwind and feel the breeze. From the said trail, you can head to Heceta Head Lighthouse. From this lighthouse, you can get panoramic views of the coastal region. The best time to reach Heceta Head Lighthouse would be late afternoon because of the stunning sunset view from the lighthouse. When you’re in Florence, don’t forget to include Heceta Head Lighthouse in your itinerary because it’s one of the most top-rated destinations in Oregon.

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Address: 725 Summer St, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Heceta Head Lighthouse

Opening hours: 11am - 5pm (daily)

4. Check out the splendid Siuslaw River Bridge

Clear your head from all the worries while you’re on a vacation in Florence. You can relax and marvel at the architecture of the Siuslaw River Bridge. This river bridge will definitely leave you in awe because of its rustic yet majestic appearance. When you see the bridge, you’ll surely feel thankful to those who have built it because its charm will wake up the inspired artist in you.

Siuslaw River Bridge

Address: 97439 US-101, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Siuslaw River Bridge

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

5. Meet sea lions at the Sea Lion Caves

If you love cute creatures, explore the Sea Lion Caves and of course, seek sea lions. Sea Lion Caves is one of the greatest reasons why Florence, Oregon, is truly a destination worth a visit. Your heart will surely melt when you get to see the adorable sea lions and their puppy-like eyes. Aside from sea lions, the views outside the cave will take your breath away.

Sea Lion Caves

Address: 91560 US-101, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Sea Lion Caves

Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)

6. Appreciate history at the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum

Awaken your history buff at the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum. In this museum, your eyes will surely have the treat to see the impressive historical displays about the Siuslaw River and Florence’s past. You can also see paintings and photographs of the early Florence populace. Ask the museum guides to show you more about the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum and they will encourage you to watch a DVD film about the early years of Siuslaw, or an audio-visual production about Florence’s history.

Siuslaw Pioneer Museum

Address: 278 Maple St, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Siuslaw Pioneer Museum

Opening hours: 12pm - 4pm (daily)

7. Take a stroll at Darlingtonia State Natural Site

Discover the weird insect-eating plants and carnivorous plants, enjoy a picnic session with friends or family, unwind with the greenery, and experience a healthful ecology. All these and more only at the Darlingtonia State Natural Site, where you can truly enjoy the moment with nature. Darlingtonia State Natural Site is a state park perfect for those who love or curious about all things botanical. For just an hour or two, you can already enjoy a lot of sightseeing activities in this park, so do include Darlingtonia State Natural Site in your Florence go-to list.

Darlingtonia State Natural Site

Address: 5400 Mercer Lake Rd, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Darlingtonia State Natural Site

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

8. Display your skills at Sand Master Park

Give yourself some adrenaline rush by sandboarding and sledding at Sand Master Park. If you’re new to sandboarding, you can learn more about sandboarding in this park because sandboarding lessons are offered. If you’re a pro, you can also rent a sandboard, sled, and surfboard. There are a lot of fun activities waiting for you at Sand Master Park, so be sure to check it out.

Sand Master Park

Address: 5351 US-101, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Sand Master Park

Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)

9. Admire the views from Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint

Soak in the view and create countless memories at Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint. Adjectives of admiration are not enough to describe how beautiful this isolated beach is. There are green forests nearby, there are grasses where visitors can enjoy a picnic, and there are sights of seagulls and other lovely sea creatures. Indeed, great time and a pleasant vacation are guaranteed when you visit this view point

Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint

Address: 97439 US-101, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint

Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)

10. Spend some quality time at Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park

If you’re looking for some activities that would make you feel ecstatic, visit Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park. This park welcomes everyone who is up for engaging and enjoyable activities. You and your family can set up a camping site, rent a bike, paddle boats, and a lot more. Still not enticed? Visit Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park and see for yourself.

Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park

Address: 84505 Highway 101, Florence, OR 97439-8405

Website: Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

11. Shop your heart out at the Boardwalk Market

If you’re looking for fresh produce, artistic handcrafted goods, perfect gifts, and luscious foods, you better shop at Boardwalk Market. The market is listed in the ‘Best Farmers Market’ website, so that means it’s worth a visit, whether you’re a shopaholic or not. You’re lucky if you get to participate in some of the major shopping events or bazaars – you’ll get the best deals on crafted items and more.

Boardwalk Market

Address: 1439 Bay St, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Boardwalk Market

12. Challenge your luck at Three Rivers Casino Resort

If you’re looking for more exciting recreational activities, head on to Three Rivers Casino Resort. If you love amusements and casinos, you can play here – who knows, you might win some moolahs, right? But if you’re just looking for relaxation and good food, Three Rivers Casino also got you covered. In other words, when you want to play, relax, and rejuvenate after a day of adventure in Florence, Three Rivers Casino Resort is the place to be.

Three Rivers Casino Resort

Address: 5647 OR-126, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Three Rivers Casino Resort

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

13. Satisfy your bookworm soul at the Siuslaw Public Library

If you really can’t take a vacation from the books you’re reading, take them with you to Florence. When you’re in Florence, you can read your books at the Siuslaw Public Library. This library has a modern design and a conducive atmosphere. You’ll surely be able to focus on what you’re reading when you choose to read at the Siuslaw Public Library. On the other hand, you can also check the books they have in store or do some of your research here because they also have a reliable internet connection.

Siuslaw Public Library

Address: 1460 9th St, Florence, OR 97439-9427

Website: Siuslaw Public Library

Opening hours: Mon, Thu - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Tue - Wed: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm

14. Gorge on mouthwatering crabs at Novelli's Crab & Seafood

When you’re sick and tired of the usual steak, pasta, or bread for lunch, go for seafood! Visit Novelli’s Crab & Seafood and enjoy their huge servings of crabs, crab chowder (this is one of their bestsellers), salmon, and many more. If you love eating crabs, you can opt to eat live, cooked, or crab cocktail. Everything on their menu is definitely a bang for your buck.

Novelli's Crab & Seafood

Address: Boat Slip A13, Corner of Bay St and, Nopal St, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Novelli’s Crab and Seafood

Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 11am - 7pm (closed on Tue)

15. Stroll across Old Town, Florence

There’s no reason for you to get bored in Florence, Oregon, because you can go to Old Town, Florence. Here at Old Town, there are many choices of shops, restaurants, museums, and other recreational facilities. These establishments are not just establishments but they put meaning into Florence’s wonderful history. Old Town is such a magnificent place in Florence because every corner you’ll see here symbolizes art and history.

Old Town, Florence

Address: Florence, Oregon 97349

Website: Old Town, Florence

16. Go horseback riding with C & M Stables

If you’ve never experienced horseback riding on the beach, C & M Stables got you covered. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or an advanced horseback rider, C & M Stables will provide you exciting horseback riding experiences on the panoramic Oregon Coast beaches and dunes. For 30 minutes, you can feel the breeze of salty air while having a beach ride. You’ll also get to see breathtaking views of the ocean through dune trail rides. C & M Stables has a lot more to offer, so make a reservation now!

C & M Stables

Address: 90241 US-101, Florence, OR 97439

Website: C & M Stables

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

17. Say cheers to your mate at Beachcomber Pub

Good food, chilled beer, awesome music – you can get all these and more at Beachcomber Pub. Since 1936, this restaurant is best known for its craft beers and casual dining experience for every guest. Aside from craft beers, they also offer an excellent selection of wines and cocktails. At Beachcomber Pub, you’ll also enjoy live music and friendly bartenders – you’ll never regret a minute spent here.

Beachcomber Pub

Address: 1355 Bay St, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Beachcomber Pub

Opening hours: 7am - 12pm (daily)

18. Feed the seagulls at Strawberry Hill Wayside

Get the chance to meet seagulls when you visit Strawberry Hill Wayside. Tourists often come here to relax and unwind at the Oregon Coast. Aside from seagulls, you’ll be amazed to catch a sight of seals, starfish, crabs, mussels and a lot of sea creatures living in the tide pools. Strawberry Hill Wayside is truly worth a visit. So, if you want a truly memorable Florence experience, visit this scenic coastline.

Strawberry Hill Wayside

Address: 95720-95744 Oregon Coast Hwy, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Strawberry Hill Wayside

Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)

19. Buy local items at the Backstreet Gallery

Buy Christmas gifts, cute handicrafts, nice paintings, fascinating paper arts and more from the Backstreet Gallery. Backstreet Gallery is a perfect place for you to buy some stuff or souvenir for your friends, especially if you are running out of gift ideas. Most of the items you’ll get here are made out of love and effort from 20 artists residing in Florence, Oregon. Just by visiting this store, you’ll enjoy the artistic displays and unique items. You’ll also get the chance to interact with friendly artists.

Backstreet Gallery

Address: 1421 Bay Street, Florence OR, PO Box 313

Website: Backstreet Gallery

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

20. Calm your soul at Florence Church of the Nazarene

Attending church has never been so heartwarming and calming when you visit Florence Church of the Nazarene. It’s a church nestled in the heart of lush trees and greenery. Inside, you’ll get a homey vibe brought by the great people running this church. Everyone is welcome at Florence Church of the Nazarene. If you need to stop for a moment and get some spiritual recharge, drop by at this lovely church.

Florence Church of the Nazarene

Address: 1536 12th St, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Florence Church of the Nazarene

Opening hours: Mon: 10am - 4pm; Tue - Wed: 11am - 4pm; Thu: 12pm - 2pm; Sun: 8:30am - 1pm (closed on Fri & Sat)

21. Visit the beautiful Tokatee Klootchman State Natural Site

If you’re a certified wildlife lover, go to Tokatee Klootchman State Natural Site and have fun watching whales, birds, marine-mammal and many more. You can also walk here and just appreciate the views of the beach. You can take your friends here and enjoy having a picnic while listening to the serene waves of the beach. Since the place is cloudy, it would be nice if you can drink a cup of coffee here while unwinding. You’ll surely feel refreshed after stopping by at Tokatee Klootchman State Natural Site.

Tokatee Klootchman State Natural Site

Address: 97439 US-101, Florence, OR 97439

Website: Tokatee Klootchman State Natural Site

Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)

22. Stay in a yurt at Siltcoos Lake Resort

Looking for a nice place to stay that can host some fun-filled activities? If yes, you can rent yurts and kayaks at Siltcoos Lake Resort to explore the Oregon dunes. Their yurts are huge and these already include kitchen and bathroom at the Siltcoos River. When you rent yurts, you’ll get a great deal because your kayak rentals will be discounted already. As for the kayaking activities, expect to explore the 3-mile (4.8 km) easy paddle to the Pacific Ocean and of course, around Siltcoos Lake and Oregon Dunes.

Siltcoos Lake Resort

Address: 82855 Fir St, Florence, Oregon

Website: Siltcoos Lake Resort

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Lots of exciting activities await you in Florence

If you have all the fortune and time, you can try every activity we’ve listed here. It’s not every day you’ll get to explore Florence, Oregon – and it’s not every day that you’ll get to travel. Make the most out of your vacation by enjoying all the things to do here.