7 Quietest Small Towns Near Portland
Oregon is filled with small towns that provide a slower pace of life, just a short drive away from the capital, Portland, making them easily accessible to travellers worldwide. From the rolling vineyards of Dundee to the historic streets of Silverton, there are plenty of options for a quiet weekend getaway. Whether you're looking for a coastal town with dramatic rock formations or a rural community surrounded by farmland, visitors will find it in these hamlets near Portland. Check out seven of the best quiet small towns near the city, each with its own activities and lodging options.
Silverton
About an hour south of Portland, Silverton is a great destination for those who appreciate gardens and architecture. The town's main attraction is The Oregon Garden, a botanical garden spanning over 80 acres. It features a variety of specialty gardens, including a Pet-Friendly Garden and a Children’s Garden, making it a great stop for the whole family. If you're planning to stay for a few days, you can book a room at the Oregon Garden Resort, which is located right on the property.
Beyond the gardens, Silverton has other points of interest. Architecture buffs will want to tour The Gordon House, the only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home in Oregon. For water activities, you can head to Silver Creek Reservoir and rent a kayak from Silver Creek Kayaks. A short drive away is Silver Falls State Park, a serene park with a 7.2-mile loop trail that takes you past ten different waterfalls (note that pets are not allowed on this trail). After a day of activity, grab a creek-side burger at Mac's Place for a casual meal.
Astoria
Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, about two hours from Portland, Astoria is a town rich in history and maritime culture. A good way to get acquainted with the city is to walk along the Astoria Riverwalk, a waterfront path that provides views of the Astoria-Megler Bridge. Along the way, you can stop at the Columbia River Maritime Museum to learn about the region's seafaring past. For a panoramic perspective of the area, make your way to The Astoria Column. Built in 1926, this 126-foot column has murals depicting Oregon's history and an observation deck at the top.
History enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, home to a replica of Fort Clatsop. After taking in the sights, you can get a beverage and a burger at Astoria Brewing Company. When it comes to lodging, Astoria has plenty of choices. The Bowline Hotel is a solid pick, located right on the water with comfortable rooms that reflect the town's industrial and maritime heritage.
North Plains
Just a 30-minute drive west of Portland, North Plains provides a quiet, rural setting without being too far from the city. The town is particularly known for its agricultural landscape and is a popular spot for golf. Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club is a major draw, with two courses that have hosted major championships. For a different kind of high-flying activity, there's the Pumpkin Ridge Zip Tour, which sends you soaring over the treetops. The area is also home to several farms and vineyards, including Shumaker Vineyards, where you can sample local wines.
If you're visiting in August, you can check out the Elephant Garlic Festival, a local celebration of the town's agricultural roots. While North Plains itself doesn't have any hotels or B&Bs, which is part of its small-town appeal, there are several great Airbnbs available for rent. If you prefer a hotel, the nearby town of Hillsboro has plenty of options, such as the Residence Inn by Marriott.
Hood River
Hood River is famous for its wind, but the town itself stays remarkably calm and friendly. You can take a windsurfing lesson with Big Winds if you feel like hitting the water, or simply stroll along the Hood River Waterfront Trail. This path is also great for biking and provides a front-row seat to the action on the river. Another way to see the sights is via the Mount Hood Railroad. You can choose to ride in a vintage trolley or even pedal a rail bike along the heritage line with the mountain in the background.
For a relaxed afternoon, spend some time at The Gorge White House. This historic farm and winery has a great beer and cider tasting room along with gourmet food. You can sit outside and look at the peaks while you eat. If you want to treat yourself, book a room at the Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa. It sits on a cliff overlooking the river and has a very classic, old-world feel. It is a top choice for anyone looking for a break from city noise.
Carlton
Known as the "Wine Capital of Oregon," Carlton is a must-visit for any wine lover. This small town, about an hour from Portland, is surrounded by world-class vineyards and tasting rooms. You can spend your days sampling pinot noir and chardonnay at places like Cana's Feast Winery, Ken Wright Cellars, Flâneur Wines, and Lemelson Vineyards, to name just a few. If you prefer not to drive, you can book a tour with Heart of Oregon Wine Tours to hop from one vineyard to the next.
But Carlton isn't just about wine. For a different kind of outing, you can go horseback riding on the beach with Willamette Coast Ride. Families and groups might appreciate a trip to Tabula Rasa Farms, where you can meet the animals and learn about sustainable agriculture. After a day of activities, grab a sweet treat from the Carlton Bakery. When it's time to rest, The Carlton Inn Bed & Breakfast is a great lodging choice, putting you right in the center of this wine-focused community.
Cannon Beach
A classic Oregon coast destination, Cannon Beach is about a 90-minute drive from Portland and is famous for its dramatic shoreline. The iconic Haystack Rock dominates the view, and at low tide, you can walk right up to it to see the tide pools teeming with life. Beyond the beach, the town has a lively arts scene. You can catch a show at the Coaster Theatre Playhouse, an intimate venue in a remodeled 1920s roller rink, or watch glassblowers at work at Icefire Glassworks, a rustic studio featuring handcrafted pieces by local artists.
When you get hungry, Pelican Brewing is a popular spot for a meal and a craft beer with ocean views. For lodging, Cannon Beach has many options, from cozy inns to larger resorts. You can book a room at the Hallmark Resort & Spa, which offers oceanfront views and spa services for extra relaxation.
Dundee
Dundee is another hub for wine enthusiasts, located in the Willamette Valley about 45 minutes from Portland. The town is packed with wineries and tasting rooms, and the surrounding hills are covered in vineyards. With so many choices, it can be hard to know where to start, so booking a trip with Serendipity Wine Tours can be a good way to see a variety of local wineries without the stress of planning. Beyond wine, you can sample artisanal cheeses at Briar Rose Creamery, a local cheesemaker with a loyal following.
For those who want to get on the water, the Willamette River Water Trail runs nearby, and you can rent a kayak to paddle a portion of it. The river provides a different perspective of the wine country landscape. After a day of tasting and sightseeing, you can settle in for the night. Franziska Haus, a bed-and-breakfast set in a restored farmhouse, offers comfortable accommodations with a country feel. It's a fitting place to stay while enjoying this key part of Oregon's wine region.
Finding a quiet spot near Portland is easy if you know where to look. From the scenic beauty of Hood River, surrounded by vineyards and orchards, to the wide sandy shores of Cannon Beach, the wealth of nearby towns is impressive. These locations offer a chance to step back from the rush of daily life and appreciate the natural rhythms of the Pacific Northwest. You can spend your time learning about local history, tasting fresh produce, or simply watching the sunset over a vineyard.
Each of these seven towns provides a different version of the Oregon lifestyle. Whether you prefer the mountains, the valley, or the coast, there is a silent street waiting for you. Short trips like these remind us that we don't have to go far to find a completely different environment. Next time the city feels a bit too loud, pack a bag and head to one of these spots for some much-needed peace.
