5 Overhyped Oregon Places That Look Better Online Than in Real Life

Truthfully, Oregon has very few famous places that should be avoided by tourists. The restaurant scene is flourishing for a reason, the natural landscapes are gorgeous (and numerous), and nearly every area is able to boast a unique attribute that keeps tourists intrigued. There are, however, a few places that have become so popular due to social media and general word of mouth that they have become overhyped for what is actually being offered. The following are just five destinations in the Beaver State that we believe look better online than in real life.

1. Voodoo Doughnuts

• Location: Portland
• Known for: Creative and (occasionally) creepy donuts

Why it’s Overhyped: Voodoo Doughnuts serves a purpose with its creativity and flamboyant design, but there are other local shops that offer higher quality, are more cost-effective, and don’t have a line that can take hours to get through. Local favorite Blue Star Donuts is perhaps a more delicious choice.

2. 'The Goonies' House

• Location: Astoria
• Known for: One of the filming sites for the movie "The Goonies"

Why it’s Overhyped: Although fans of the movie are likely to enjoy seeing the house, as it looks nearly identical to how it was in the film, you can only view the outside of the house. This is now somebody’s residence, and there are strict signs to stay away from the fence. If you’re already in Astoria, it may be worth swinging by, but it’s not worth planning a trip around it.

3. Umpqua Hot Springs

• Location: Southwestern Oregon near Crater Lake
• Known for: Naturally occurring hot springs, being clothing-optional, and having no admission fee

Why it’s Overhyped: By themselves, the hot springs are beautiful and would be fun to relax in. However, the experience has been completely ruined by too many visitors who leave trash everywhere (it’s actually downright alarming, and it makes the water gross) and crowd the pools.

4. The Newport Sea Lion Docks

• Location: Newport
• Known for: One of the most popular gathering spots for sea lions on the Oregon Coast

Why it’s Overhyped: Viewing sea lions is always a fun experience, but these docks are overcrowded with tourists, and the large number of sea lions has left a permanent stench in the air. There are other places all along the coast where you can visit and see wildlife, while not constantly jostling the people around you. Plus, locals aren’t exactly as thrilled with the noisy animals as visitors seem to be.

5. The Prehistoric Gardens

• Location: Port Orford
• Known for: Giant dinosaur statues amid a temperate rainforest

Why it’s Overhyped: While cute as a random roadside attraction, this stopover is small and, shall we say, dated. The paint on the dinosaurs is fading, the descriptions aren't that informative, and there’s a lack of anything else to make this area engaging for anyone other than young children (if that). Additionally, the ticket price is far too high for something that is merely a short (but pretty, I’ll give it that) walk with limited attractions.

It's true that each of these destinations has something to offer, but we feel there are many other incredible places to visit around the state. Check out some of our favorite hidden gems in Oregon, and if you are ready to start planning your next trip, try Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.