Dream Spring Break in Oregon: Where I’d Go if Money Was No Object

It’s no secret that I love Oregon. I love exploring this beautiful state, no matter the time of the year. While summer is when you’ll often find me on road trips or in charming small towns in the Beaver State, there’s nothing quite like visiting in the spring, especially during spring break. I’m a budget-friendly traveler and tend to visit destinations that won’t make a dent in my bank account. However, if money were no object, there are several places in the Beaver State that I’d add to my bucket list. The following are just seven places I’d love to visit for spring break in Oregon.

1. Go on a whale watching tour

While you can spot whales all year in Oregon, spring is one of the best times to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures as they migrate north. While you can often observe whales right from the shore, many state parks along Oregon’s coast offer excellent whale-watching opportunities. If you plan your spring break in late March, you can enjoy Whale Watch Weeks. These events allow you to meet volunteers who will help you spot the migrating whales and teach you a little more about them. However, I would also want to book a tour to see if I can get a glimpse of the whales up close. Depoe Bay, for example, is home to several whale-watching tour companies.

2. Check out the Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa in Hood River

Doesn’t a spring break full of rest and relaxation sound dreamy? You can enjoy a little R&R and some breathtaking views at the Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa in Hood River. This unique resort offers spectacular views of the Columbia River, cozy accommodations, delicious dining options, and a long list of spa treatments. Plus, I love Hood River and the many attractions and outdoor recreational activities in the area. This is one destination where the end of my trip may bring a few tears to my eyes. I won’t want it to end.

3. Road trip along Highway 101

One of my favorite road trips was a multi-day drive along Highway 101. While I'd love to experience this drive again, this time, I want to tackle it in the spring. I love stopping at the many small towns and state parks that dot the coast, but I also want to see the many waterfalls, blooming flowers, and quieter beaches that the spring months bring.

4. Go to the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

I’m sad to say that I’ve never attended the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in the Willamette Valley. However, it’s on my bucket list for my next spring break outing. This incredible spring festival is located at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn and is scheduled to take place this year from March 20 to April 26, 2026. This festival is where you can see thousands of blooming tulips, creating a sea of colors. I’m excited to put on my favorite walking shoes and wander along the pathways to see the flowers, stop at the various photo opportunities, enjoy some great food and drinks, and even take some fresh-cut flowers home with me.

5. Visit Allison Inn & Spa

Located within the gorgeous Willamette Valley, the Allison Inn and Spa is a breathtaking getaway destination. This luxury resort sits on 35 acres and is surrounded by vineyards and farmland. Here, you can stay for several days in one of the beautiful guest rooms or luxury suites. You’ll never need to leave, as you can enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurants and relax during one of the many spa treatments offered here. If you plan your visit just right, you may even attend one of the events that take place at this Oregon resort — it’s a picture-perfect destination.

6. Have an adventure at Camp Dakota

If you are up for a more heart-racing, adrenaline-pumping spring break activity, Camp Dakota Family Camping & Adventures is an absolute must. This unique destination is approximately one hour from Portland or Salem and is home to a 45-acre campground and adventure park. You can spend your spring break sleeping under the stars in a tent, yurt, cabin, tee-pee, or RV. Then, during the day, you can participate in activities like rock climbing, paintball, a high ropes challenge course, zipline, disc golf, and so much more. Just make sure to make a reservation, because they're required!

7. Spend a day at Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is one of my favorite state parks in Oregon and a destination I don’t get to explore enough. This breathtaking park boasts approximately nine miles of coast with beautiful views of rock formations, including the well-known Haystack Rock. There are gorgeous overlooks, bucket-list-worthy hiking trails, and a few secluded beaches where you may enjoy some peace and quiet (and are excellent for surfers). Unfortunately, this park is closed at the moment due to damage caused by landslides. In the meantime, you can visit nearby Oswald West State Park or wait until Ecola State Park is open again.

If money were no object, I would add all the above activities to my spring break itinerary. The Beaver State is home to many bucket-list-worthy activities — we love the spring months here. And if you're looking for more ways to spruce up your spring vacay, be sure to visit our itinerary planner for recommendations!