7 Bucket-List Small Towns In Oregon

Renowned for its mesmerizing coastal landscapes, dramatic snow-capped peaks, and some of the deepest lakes in the USA, Oregon is an incredible destination to visit. From Astoria to Rockaway Beach, you can discover breathtaking vistas combined with fascinating historical landmarks and architectural wonders that will leave you in awe. Explore "The Beaver State" in all its beauty and grandeur as you get to know these 7 bucket-list small towns in Oregon.

Astoria

Welcome to Astoria, where the waters are blue, the streets are historic, and the scenery is beyond spectacular. Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, there is no better place to mix history with nature as you can see exquisite Victorian-era homes with extraordinary views of the water. Get your steps in climbing The Astoria Column, a 125-foot-tall historic monument (inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris), uncovering panoramic views from the top. Next, let yourself be transported into a fairytale as you visit the Flavel House Museum. This magnificent Queen Anne-style mansion, constructed as a retirement home for Captain George Flavel and his family between 1884 and 1885, perfectly portrays the elegance of the Victorian period. Another incredible site you can not miss is the Astoria Riverfront Trolley. Head on a captivating one-hour ride on this historic trolley built in 1913, for an immersive journey back in time.

Cannon Beach

Spend some time getting sun-kissed in Cannon Beach, one of the top bucket-list small towns in Oregon. This is where the iconic Haystack Rock is located, a famous basalt sea stack featured in endless TV shows, novels, and movies. Rising 235 feet from the shoreline's edge, you can see striking views of this landmark and even walk right up to it during low tide. Nature lovers can wander through the breathtaking trails of Ecola State Park, where you must explore the road that stretches through a lush Sitka spruce forest, eventually opening up to the bluff offering jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. From there, discover the captivating waterfall that cascades right onto the beach, along with the spectacular sandstone cliff caves of Hug Point State Park, located just five miles south of Cannon Beach.

McMinnville

A city with a slightly larger population, McMinnville is renowned for its world-class wines, beautiful boutiques, exhilarating activities, and specialty museums. Start by visiting the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, home to an international collection of over 150 aircraft and spacecraft exhibits and displays. If you are traveling with kids, you have to take them to the Wings & Waves Waterpark. Enjoy a fun-filled day with exciting water slides, fun vortex pools, all kinds of treats in the Milky Way Cafe, and even the virtual reality Sonic Boom Waterslide. If you would like some time on your own or with your spouse and friends, make your way to the R. Stuart & Co. Tasting Room. Discover their Mixed or Reserve Flights, with quality varietals to choose from.

Florence

While the Italian city shines with its Renaissance beauty, this hidden Pacific Northwest gem offers its own magic. A small city situated at the mouth of the Siuslaw River, Florence was nicknamed "Oregon's Coastal Playground" for a reason. Start your journey by exploring the Sea Lion Caves. Here, you will find America's largest naturally formed basalt rock sea cave as you step into a world of mystery and enchantment, created over 25 million years ago (SeaLionCaves). The Heceta Head Lighthouse is another unmissable site in one of the prettiest bucket-list small towns in Oregon. Behold the dramatic scenery of the extraordinary 56-foot tower situated 206 feet over the Pacific; its light was first illuminated in 1894. This is also a wonderful spot for seeing whales (during the spring and winter migration), as well as sea lions and several bird species.

Manzanita

If a peaceful, picturesque escape sounds perfect to you, Manzanita is the place you have been searching for. Between exceptionally stunning yet significantly less crowded beaches, vibrant arts centers, and a charming downtown area featuring exquisite boutiques and quaint locally owned shops, you will be in for a real treat. Taste some local quality Pacific Northwest wines in The Winery at Manzanita, a lovely spot only 2.5 blocks away from the beach. Take the perfect opportunity to reconnect with your mind, body, and soul, with a relaxing afternoon getting pampered in Pauseful Massage & Botanicals. Roughly two miles south lies Nehalem Bay State Park, a scenic area on a four-mile sand spit.

Sisters

Yes, there is a town in Oregon called Sisters—and it is exceptionally charming. Travel back in time to the Old West, as you get to know one of the most fascinating bucket-list small towns in Oregon. From the vibrant town-takeover Sisters Folk Festival, to a real live rodeo, and an iconic quilt show, once you set foot here, you will not want to leave. If you would like to challenge yourself with a truly impressive hike, enter an outdoor oasis as you venture up the South Sister Trail. The views from the summit here are almost otherworldly. For a short, easy hike only five miles from downtown, head to the Whychus Creek Overlook. This one-mile trail will take you to a gorgeous overlook, unlocking wonderful views of the Whychus Creek Wild and Scenic River area and the Three Sisters' peaks.

Rockaway Beach

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and small-town culture of Oregon in Rockaway Beach. Between quality restaurants, fascinating festivals, legendary landmarks, and seven miles of sandy beaches, this charming town offers the perfect mix for every traveler. Soak in the stunning scenery from Manhattan Beach State Recreation Site, a lovely place for a scenic stroll by the water or a picnic by the shore. Step straight into a fairytale as you meander through the Rockaway Big Tree Trailhead via the gorgeous 1.1-mile trail, leading you to the gigantic 154-foot-tall western red cedar tree. Seeing The Three Graces is a must. This jaw-dropping rock formation offers tide pooling, beach combing, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Discover Oregon

There you have it—the most awe-inspiring 7 bucket-list small towns in Oregon you must explore. From the eloquent Victorian-era homes and expansive waterfront views of Astoria, to Florence's towering 56-foot lighthouses stretching over the Pacific, and Rockaway Beach's expansive trees and picturesque forest trails, you will be in for a real treat. Lose yourself in the beauty of The Beaver State as you soak up the natural, historical, and cultural beauty of Oregon.