Curator’s statement
“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul” —John Muir. This quote describes a journey through Oregon perfectly. While losing your mind is a bit easier when aided by some of the best Pinot Noirs and chardonnays in the US, Oregon’s nature is pleasantly sobering. Cast eyes on their meandering vineyards and lavender fields or travel to the coast to hike the jagged coastline, where you’ll be revived with fresh seafood at the end. The state has boundless areas to explore, but for four to five days, base your time in the gorgeous Willamette Valley with a quick sojourn to the coast, spending each day in nature and with a wine glass in hand.
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Things to do in Oregon
Wine tasting at Resonance
Wine tasting
Willamette Valley is best known for producing Pinot Noirs and chardonnays, but even non-drinkers can enjoy the incredible views at each winery. Compared to Napa, Willamette is refreshingly less developed, offering expansive views of the valley, dotted with farms and small estates. Enjoy one or two days of wine and food pairings at favorites like Soter Vineyards, Resonance, Ken Wright, Penner Ash Cellars, Rex Hill, and Duskey Goose.
Hiking
There are several trails throughout the valley, but you won’t beat the views on the coast. Hike Cape Falcon Trail before heading into Cannon Beach for a few days.
Farm visits & the Tillamook Creamery experience
Many local farms offer visits and tours. Oakwood Gardens is so charming and hosts herds of friendly alpacas lining up along the fence. The couple who run this B&B have also devoted themselves to growing a massive English garden. Each step through the blooms is breathtaking, especially at sunrise. As you head down the coast line, don’t miss a stop at the famous Tillamook Creamery to learn how their cheese and ice cream makes its way to your local grocer. It’s honestly like the Hershey factory, but for cheese lovers, and it’s amazing.
Shopping
Dundee, Carlton, McMinnville, and Cannon Beach have the most charming main streets with shops selling everything from clothes to soaps, jewelry, and home goods.
Haystack Rock
Located on Cannon Beach, this monolithic rock is surrounded by tide pools teeming with aquatic life. If you stay at the Hallmark, there’s nothing cozier than finishing a Pinot Noir next to your own beach bonfire.
Places to eat & drink in Oregon
Lunch tasting at Rex Hill Winery
The Meating Place: It’s a bit out of the way, but they have the most amazing breakfast burritos and sandwiches to start your day.
La Rambla: A Spanish restaurant and bar offering tapas, paella, and a large wine list set in a building from the 1880s.
Thistle: A chic American bistro and cocktail bar with an à la carte menu or chef’s tasting menu.
Bistro Maison: A cozy restaurant in an old house with garden seating that serves ample helpings of classic French food.
Forage: A casual spot for great pizza and cocktails on the patio.
Rosamarino’s: A traditional Italian trattoria in the center of downtown Newberg, OR.
Bite of Newberg Food Truck Pod: Offering just about every type of cuisine, this fun crop of food trucks offers an eclectic experience.
Pelican Brewing: A craft brewpub offering brewery tours, rotating taps, gourmet pub fare, and patio seating.
Wayfarer’s: A stylish, wood-paneled restaurant serving fresh seafood and the creamiest clam chowder. Perfect for chilly nights on the Oregon coast.
Lunch tastings: Many of the wineries throughout Willamette Valley offer lunch or dinner with wine pairings. Pro tip: Take advantage! Meals are prepared by some of the top chefs in the state, and they’ll often join the sommeliers to explain each course, creating a fine-dining experience against a rustic backdrop.
Need to know
Transportation
You’ll want to rent a car to explore the valley and the coast, but be responsible. Ubers aren’t plentiful, but there are several transportation services that can be reserved for a day of tastings. Trust me, you don’t want to be navigating the winding mountain roads in the pitch black of the night after a few glasses of vino.
Travel Advisor
Kaitlyn Knause
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Oregon page.