By Lori Rice, MS
Family Vacation Ideas in Oregon
A trip to Oregon is full of opportunity. There are so many activities for families to enjoy that it is difficult to pick only one. This diverse state offers beachside retreats, mountain adventures and plenty of big-city events to keep everyone in the family entertained for days. Take your time during your Oregon vacation, and visit these popular places, each offering a little something different for the traveler.
Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock
For beautiful views of the Pacific Coast, with the cozy feeling of a quaint, beach town, head 70 miles west from Portland to Cannon Beach. Here you will find a gorgeous stretch of coastline and the widely known Haystack Rock towering in the distance. You can spend time playing on the beach or walking along the streets and through local shops and restaurants. Be sure to stop for breakfast at the Pig 'n Pancake. If you aren't staying in the area and plan to drive in for the day, get there early during the summer because the public parking lots fill up quickly.
Pig 'N Pancake
223 S. Hemlock
Cannon Beach, OR 97110
(503) 436-2851
Tillamook Cheese Factory
On your drive to the coast, you simply can't miss stopping in Tillamook to visit the cheese factory. Savor an early lunch at the Farmhouse Café, and you can choose from seven ways to have your grilled cheese sandwich. Take the self-guided tour, which explains the history of the company and the process of production. At the end, you will get to taste the results of their hard work. You can't leave without swinging by the ice cream counter, where you can experience the foods of the region with a scoop of the Marionberry Pie flavor. The visitor's center opens at 8 a.m., and if you want a more relaxed tour, be sure to get there before noon, at which time the place really starts to fill up.
Tillamook Cheese
4175 Highway 101 N.
Tillamook, OR 97141
(503) 815-1300
Columbia River Gorge
The landscape you see during your drive will be enough to take your breath away. Stay in a bed and breakfast in Hood River, or choose a camping site in The Dalles. Whether you choose to hike, fish, watch the local wildlife or go whitewater rafting, you are in store for a family vacation that is full of adventure. For some fun mixed with learning, stop by the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles, where both adults and children can take part in the interactive exhibits.
Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center
5000 Discovery Drive
The Dalles, OR 97058
(541) 296-8600
Portland
Portland is Oregon's largest city, which translates to lots of activities for travelers. The area is full of character and provides endless entertainment for the whole family. If you plan to visit all of the top spots, consider purchasing the Portland Attraction Pass, which will save you money on family-friendly activities and attractions. You can choose a history lesson about the end of the Oregon Trail and visit the Museum of the Oregon Territory. You can explore science while being entertained at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. Also, take some time to enjoy animal life at the Oregon Zoo. Attractions are easily accessible by car, and some can be reached by foot or by using the MAX light-rail system that runs through the city. Purchase your Portland Attraction Pass at the Travel Portland Information Center at 701 SW Sixth Ave. at Morrison Street; (877) 678-5263.
About the Author:
Lori Rice is a freelance health and travel writer. With a Master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences and a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Fitness and Health, she strives to positively influence the wellness of her readers. As an avid traveler and current ex-pat she enjoys sharing her experiences and tips with other enthusiastic explorers.
Photo Credits:
Lori Rice
