6 Most Underrated Towns in Oregon
"The Beaver State" is renowned for its rugged natural beauty along the coastline and scenic wilderness. Its underrated towns pose the perfect base for getaways, with linger-worthy attractions along the historic, decorated streets. These towns are specks on the map but with a big character that shines brightly for some of the state's best nature.
Astoria
The old fishing port town of Astoria at the mouth of the Columbia River boasts a fabulous waterfront. You can dine on amazing seafood with views, sip beer on a pier, and buy freshly-caught fish right from the docks. A ride on a vintage trolley offers a perfect way to get the landscape's scope and scavenge for hit-worthy spots along the way. Meander the atmospheric streets to learn about the town's past amidst tons of attractions and landmarks. Modern pursuits include shopping, antiquing, and buying baked goods.
Astoria served as the backdrop for many scenes in the 1985 hit, The Goonies. Visitors can enjoy exploring numerous filming locations around town. While you're here, be sure to visit the local museums and climb the 164 steps to the top of the Astoria Column for stunning panoramic views. Astoria hosts regular festivals throughout the year, including the popular Wine and Seafood Festival that fills the otherwise quiet town with lively locals and tourists.
Coos Bay
One of the state's coolest towns is home to ample natural beauty, and a long list of restaurants to recharge and hit the outdoor scene on repeat. There are plentiful amenities to kick up the tired feet following a day worth of exploring and call in a night in style under any budget. The rugged coast awaits the next morning's ventures at the point where the Coos River meets the Pacific for especially scenic vistas galore, hikes, and water fun.
The surrounding area features diverse terrain, including dunes and state parks with trails for various adventures. The iconic Cape Arago Lighthouse, the newest version after its twice-fallen from bad weather and erosion, is best viewed from Bay Sunset Park. Coos Bay is the perfect town for scenic walks along streets decorated with shipbuilding memorabilia from the past.
Florence
The enchanting oceanfront city of around 10,000, boasts an idyllic locale along the central Oregon coast and Siuslaw River. It is home to a charming, historic Old Town district next to the Siuslaw River Bridge, worthy to meander for culture and sights. There are also tons of shopping opportunities, and places to stay, eat and drink with views, such as the state's best seafood chowder on the coast. The serene town offers a real peaceful respite from the city with easy access to hot spots along the coast. The shores are perfect for sandboarding and whale-watching, as well as shopping along the boardwalk market.
There are many interesting museums to explore the atmospheric community's history and current scene. The Darlingtonia State Natural Site is a must-visit for its unique cobra lily, a carnivorous plant. Other natural and sightseeing highlights include the Oregon Sand Dunes, Sea Lion Caves, and the Heceta Head Lighthouse. The town features its own attractions, including the Siuslaw River Coffee Roasters, a scenic riverfront, art galleries, and local businesses.
Manzanita
The underrated small town of just over 600 residents spreads scenically along Oregon's western coast. Manzanita has fewer crowds and a more pleasant climate than much of the state. It is perfect for exploring the nearby Oswald West State Park's trails, and the beach at the Nehalem Bay State Park along with breathtaking views of the Bay. Manzanita is an idyllic road-trip stop on the way to the neighboring Cannon Beach or Pacific City.
The quiet town with an expansive beach is ideal for a peaceful, year-round escape from the crowds while enjoying tranquil activities. Nature enthusiasts love wandering among tall pine trees, and town yoga studios offer a themed way to find true zen. The charming downtown features an organic grocery store and adorable coffee shops. For a perfect evening, the Manzanita Winery Wine Bar serves locally acclaimed wine in a cozy setting with fire pits right by the ocean.
Silverton
Only fifteen miles east of the state's capital of Salem, the affectionately-nicknamed "Garden City" demands a visit. It is a spectacular small town full of perennial attractions and nature pursuits without leaving the green premises. Although fewer crowds know about this gem, Silverton exemplifies the state's growing appeal with popular attractions such as The Oregon Garden, home to 80 beautifully-landscaped acres of botanic marvels. It is open year-round for some peaceful time with nature amidst scenery and smells and includes a Children's Garden and Pet-Friendly Garden.
There are several events at the garden throughout the year, such as the renowned Art in the Garden during summer, with local works displayed. The expansive outdoor Silver Falls State Park is nearby, featuring streaming waters and the nationally-recognized "Trail of Ten Falls." The 177-foot South Falls is a highlight, along with the Silver Creek that runs through the area. The nearby downtown is full of cozy coffee shops, local cafes, and restaurants, as well as many inviting places for a good night's rest.
Yachats
Pronounced "Yah-hots," the speck on the map along the central Oregon coast is a fun town for an excellent weekend escape. The friendly community boasts the state's best-rugged beauty tucked in between the coast and sprawling Siuslaw National Forest. You are bound to get sucked into enjoying the slower pace of life through bountiful laidback pursuits for each day. There are hiking trails and bike paths around town with wonderful attractions on the way and outlets into amazing scenery all around. While you are in the area, you must explore the hauntingly-beautiful Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.
The Amanda's Trail section of the Oregon Coast Trail runs through Yachats. It is a favorite local spot for wandering through the forest and a destination for tourists on a statewide hike with stunning viewpoints. Oregon's wild coastline looks just as it does in the mind's eye, worth taking your time to enjoy. The town's streets are filled with attractions and amenities, such as Luna Sea for the best fish and chips on the coast, or Bread and Roses for famous baked goods.
These Oregon towns are wildly-underrated. They are home to locals adamant about enjoying a slower pace of life amidst scenic vibes, delectable seafood cuisine, and attractions for all tastes. The relaxing and refreshing respite is easy on the eyes and wallet to lighten the soul on a getaway from the city.
