14 Prettiest Small Towns In Oregon
Enchanting, awe-inspiring, and picture-perfect, first-timers often use these flattering words to describe Oregon. Boasting diverse natural landscapes, from snow-capped mountains and rugged coastlines to lush river valleys and dramatic gorges, the Beaver State offers spectacular views at every turn. These lovely landforms provide a backdrop for quaint rural communities that draw visitors with their small-town atmosphere and rich pastoral environment.
Together, they promise an unmissable escape from the rigors of city life, soothing travelers with a slow pace of life and laid-back opportunities indoors and outdoors. From Wine Country gems like McMinnville to oceanside villages like Cannon Beach, here are some of the prettiest small towns in Oregon.
Joseph
Joseph's majestic outdoors is punctuated by the rugged peaks of the Wallowa Mountains, which have been described as the "Swiss Alps of Oregon." Some of the best views of its otherworldly landscapes await those who ride the Wallowa Lake Tramway. This remarkable aerial excursion takes guests over the Wallowa Valley and Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, delivering sweeping views of the surroundings. Back on land, Wallowa Lake State Park cultivates numerous adventures for the outdoor inclined, including camping, hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
Main Street Joseph is lined with a string of galleries, which speaks to the town's lively art scene. Visitors can get cultured at the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, which offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions to educate the community.
Ashland
Ashland's unrivaled charm lies in its beautiful nature and vibrant art scene, drawing tourists throughout the year. Its location at the convergence of the Siskiyou and Cascade Mountain Ranges results in exquisite outdoor spaces, embodied by the 100-acre Lithia Park. This tranquil sanctuary features grassy lawns, lush gardens, and ponds, presenting the perfect setting to sit and relax.
Ashland is also known for its theater scene. It is home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, a world-class venue staging compelling classic and contemporary stage presentations. This is also true for the Oregon Cabaret Theatre, which sits just a block away. Meanwhile, visual art lovers will prefer to browse the fine creations displayed by the Schneider Museum of Art, featuring art by contemporary artists.
Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove is a historic village in Lane County known for its covered bridges and historic district, which feels frozen in time. The downtown area harbors a fair share of historical markers, including the Bohemian Gold Mining Museum. This rustic building stores a collection of old pictures, rocks, equipment, and other memorabilia depicting the region's gold mining past. Also, you will come across the Cottage Theatre, a nice location to catch engaging live performances by local talents.
Beyond the downtown, Cottage Grove hosts several covered bridges that offer an idea of old-world engineering. This includes the Chambers Covered Railroad Bridge, built in 1925 out of wood and spanning about 78 feet across the Willamette River.
Hood River
This adorable community along the Columbia River sits against the backdrop of the picturesque Mount Hood, resulting in a stupefying natural allure. Hood River's beauty is personified by the flowing waters of the Wah Gwin Gwin Waterfall, which attracts crowds of admirers looking for the perfect photo opportunity. Those who want to witness the unrivaled beauty in the town can hop on the Mount Hood Railroad for a delightful sightseeing tour through the Columbia River Valley in a vintage train.
Hood River favors tourists with a penchant for nostalgic experiences. These are welcomed at the History Museum of Hood River County, where a collection of interactive photographs, exhibits, and programs depicts the history of agriculture, railroad, lumbering, and other aspects of the town.
La Pine
This nature lover's paradise in Deschutes County enchants newcomers with its outdoor riches, framed by jagged mountain peaks, glistening lake waters, and winding river valleys. There is no shortage of recreational opportunities at LaPine State Park. Sprawling over thousands of acres, this popular playground accommodates everything from fishing to hiking and camping. The Lava Cast Forest Trail is an excellent escape if you enjoy isolated adventures, offering a demanding 9-mile route over rugged lava cast.
But if you prefer something less taxing during your outdoor activities, you can try golf with friends at the Quail Run Golf Course. This 18-hole championship course offers challenging play yet rewards players with exquisite views of the Central Oregon mountains.
Sisters
Popularly known as the "Gateway to the Cascades," Sisters is a beautiful small town with an artsy disposition and terrific outdoor landscapes. This opens doors to a variety of adventures in the open spaces, with hikers finding the perfect pursuit along the secluded Whychus Creek Trail. This mile-long pathway straddles the Scenic River and features picturesque vantage points overlooking the water. The Aspen Lakes Golf Course presents another excellent reason to be outside. Besides navigating past its 18 tricky holes, tourists will love the surrounding mountain and forest scenery.
Meanwhile, those who prefer indoor activities can get cultured at Raven Makes Gallery. This intimate neighborhood studio exhibits a colorful collection of artworks, including Native Indian jewelry, beadwork, basketry, and other crafts.
Astoria
Between panoramic views of the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline and the breathtaking banks of the Columbia River, Astoria is one of the prettiest small towns in Oregon. This historic riparian community spoils visitors with visual spectacles at every turn, which guests can take advantage of with a ride on the Astoria Riverfront Trolley. The open ride snakes along the Astoria waterfront in a 1913 trolley. The Astoria Column is an unmissable local sight, rising at least 120 feet above the mouth of the Columbia River. From the top of the structure, guests get a bird's-eye perspective of the whole town.
Astoria is also known for its historic downtown district and cluster of Victorian structures with distinct architecture. Prominent among them is the Queen Anne style Flavel House Museum, which provides a glimpse of life for the upper class 1880s with its colorful period decor.
Silverton
Silverton is a popular escape for residents in the state capital, which sits about 12 miles away, and provides the ideal small-town atmosphere with unmatched natural beauty. Tourists are drawn by the tranquility and allure of Silver Falls State Park, whose 9,000-acre territory features a network of gorgeous waterfalls and scenic nature trails. Silverton is also home to the Oregon Garden, whose sweet-scented gardens and quiet walking trails are designed for those who seek relaxation amidst the bounty of Mother Nature.
In addition to its green spaces, Silverton's walkable downtown region lures first-timers with fun shopping opportunities. At the Oregon Crafters Market, you can sort through an impressive assortment of produce, crafts, and souvenirs for something nice to buy.
Florence
A blend of supreme nature and historical heritage makes this coastal community a popular destination for vacationers in Oregon. Florence lies on the confluence of the Pacific Ocean and the Siuslaw River and boasts an enduring maritime heritage, which is best represented by the imposing Heceta Head Lighthouse. This postcard-worthy structure was originally erected in the 1890s and features among Oregon's most photographed landmarks. The Darlingtonia State Natural Site provides a lovely outdoor space where you stroll along a scenic boardwalk for enchanting vistas of the Pacific coast.
Florence's well-preserved downtown area is steeped in history and hosts a handful of vital historical markers. A tour of the Oregon Coast Military Museum reveals diverse artifacts and memorabilia paying tribute to veterans.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is a romantic village on the rugged coast of northwest Oregon, known for its stretchy sand beaches, mesmerizing sea views, and dramatic natural landforms. Most newcomers are quick to notice Haystack Rock, a 235-foot monolith in the middle of the ocean that photographers can't get enough of. Meanwhile, the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum tells a fascinating story about the community's dynamic chronology. Stored inside are thousands of photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia preserving the area's heritage.
If you want to meet the locals, you can do so while shopping at the Cannon Beach Farmers Market. This weekly gathering welcomes tourists with fresh-from-the-farm produce and adorable crafts by friendly vendors.
Baker City
It's been over 150 years since this Baker County community was founded, and its enduring heritage comes to life when you walk around its well-maintained historic downtown. Glimpses of old-world architecture, such as the Italianate Leo Adler House Museum, transport tourists back to the Victorian era. Also, the Baker Heritage Museum stockpiles resourceful artifacts from the town's past, which take you through its journey since it was founded in the late 1800s.
Away from downtown, Baker City invites golf enthusiasts to try out their swing on the 18 holes of Quail Ridge Golf Course. The beautiful course lies in the shadow of the Elkhorn Mountains, which spoils players with picturesque vistas at every turn.
McMinnville
McMinnville lies in the middle of Oregon's Wine Country, which hints at numerous wine-tasting opportunities visitors can look forward to in this Yamhill County municipality. You will notice sprawling vineyards as you drive into the town, from Eyrie Vineyards to Coeur De Terre Vineyards, which is where award-winning local wines are crafted to perfection. Meanwhile, the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum interests plane enthusiasts with a display of at least fifty iconic aircraft, including the Hughes H-4 Hercules, across four main structures.
McMinnville has a lively visual and performance art scene, giving vacationers an excellent opportunity to get cultured. You can visit Currents Gallery to inspect lovely creations by local artists or sit inside Gallery Theater for an exhilarating stage production.
Newport
Newport's rich mix and variety of attractions ensure there is something for everyone. This small town in Oregon's central coast boasts a scenic waterfront with stretches of powdery beach sands. Vacationers love flocking to South Beach State Park for unassuming walks to revel in the wide open spaces and magnificent ocean vistas. Elsewhere, the Oregon Coast Aquarium provides a rare opportunity for close-up interactions with delightful sea creatures. Guests walk through underwater tunnels to witness species like jellyfish, sea lions, and otters from behind the glass.
The imposing facade of the Yaquina Head Light reminds people of Newport's maritime heritage. This 93-foot structure is Oregon's tallest lighthouse and dates back to the late 19th century. It is also popular among photographers in the region.
Lincoln City
Lincoln City is another gem on Oregon's central coast with unbeatable scenery, marked by stretches of sand and glistering waters. There is more than adequate incentive to step outside and discover the open spaces, starting with the tranquil grounds of Roads End State Recreation Area. A romantic stroll along the shore exposes you to hidden coves, tidepools, and islands that make for an amazing time in seclusion. Additionally, the Connie Hansen Garden Conservancy provides a perfect alternative with lush greenery and a serene environment designed for relaxation.
Lincoln City is an excellent destination to get culture. It is home to the Lincoln City Cultural Center, which provides an all-encompassing experience, featuring art exhibitions, performances, festivals, and other social events that bring people together.
Final Thought
The best part about visiting the Beaver State is that you are bound to find something that tickles your fancy no matter how choosy you are. Whether you plan to indulge in Baker City's curious history or relax along Cannon Beach's sandy shores, these prettiest small towns in Oregon showcase the charm of the state's unrivaled diversity. With their rural ambience and colorful nature, they are just what you need to escape the rigors of urban living in the United States.
