Brownsville, Oregon, Is A Charming Day Trip Destination

If you’re looking for the perfect day trip destination in Oregon, then you should check out Brownsville. This small town is about halfway between Salem and Eugene, and it has a population of fewer than 2,000 residents. Brownsville gained some fame back in the 1980s when it was the filming location for the 1986 film Stand By Me, starring River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, Jerry O’Connell, and Corey Feldman. It was the ultimate small town back then, and it still is today. You’ll love visiting! Read on to learn more about things to do in Brownsville, Oregon.

If you've seen the movie *Stand By Me* then you might recognize this bridge from the film. If you haven't seen the movie, then this bridge is still a charming way to cross over the Calapooia River to get from one part of Brownsville to the other.

Main Street in Brownsville crosses right over it. This historic Main Street area looks pretty much exactly like it did when they filmed the movie in 1986, as well as how it looked about 100 years ago. It's full of interesting small businesses that serve this town.

Carlson's Hardware and Lumber is on Main Street.

So is the Historic C.J. Howe Building. This property has been turned into vacation rentals if you wish to stay the night.

The Brownsville Post Office is also on Main Street.

Brownsville City Hall is on Main Street as well.

You can also visit the Linn County Historical Museum just off Main Street, too. It's located in Brownsville's original railroad depot. You can check out historic rail cars and learn about the people and history of this area.

The Moyer House is across Main Street from the museum. This historic, 3,000-square-foot home was built in 1881. Tours of it are offered every Saturday.

Another cool museum in Brownsville is Living Rock Studios. It's outside of the main downtown Brownsville area, but it's still very close by. It is a small museum that is full of history, art, and so much more.

If you're hungry, you might stop by Kirk's Ferry Trading Post for a good meal. This place is very well-rated and is one of the most popular spots to eat in town.

Truly, part of the experience of Brownsville is simply walking around town and looking at all the cool old buildings.

There are a number of pretty religious buildings in Brownsville, too, like the Brownsville Christian Church shown here.

Even the homes are adorable. We love this purple house!

Brownsville, Oregon is a pleasant, welcoming, and relaxing place to enjoy a day – and that’s what makes it the perfect day trip destination in Oregon. You’ll love Brownsville! Plan a visit there today.

If you’re someone who loves small towns, you’re in luck – Oregon is full of them! Check out this list for more of the coolest small towns in Oregon that you’ve probably never heard of.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Oregon Small Towns

Chris Muras | February 13, 2024

What are some of the best small towns in Oregon?
Oregon is filled with charming small towns along the coast as well as inland surrounded by natural wonders. Here are a few of the best small towns in Oregon for you to put on your bucket list:

Sisters, OR: With vast farmland backed by gorgeous mountain views, this charming small town is a little bit of heaven. If you enjoy outdoor adventures there is plenty to be had, kayaking or paddle boarding with views of Three Sisters Mountains is especially peaceful. Book a romantic getaway at the FivePine Lodge so you can explore the lovely downtown with historic shops and restaurants. Or, come to town for the Sister's Rodeo in June.
Oceanside, OR: About 10 miles west of Tillamook, you'll find this quiet seaside town. This lovely town is set up high on a hill overlooking the ocean, so it is a beautiful place to come for a weekend getaway. Oceanside is surrounded by natural areas and state parks, so there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The soft sandy beaches are also a huge draw. One of its coolest features is Three Arch Rocks, located just offshore. You can go explore the rocky beach and a man-made tunnel that was built in the 1920s.
Yachats, OR: This Central Oregon beach town is another of our favorites. It is often called the "gem of the Oregon coast." Yachats is certainly scenic with stunning views of the Heceta Head Lighthouse surrounded on one side by lush green landscape and the other by wonderful ocean views. You'll also find the iconic Thor's Well and Devil's Churn near Yachats. The town itself is equally as lovely with a walkable downtown, cute shops, restaurants, and local art galleries.

One of the best ways to explore Oregon is by going on a small-town road trip. Hop in an RV and go on this pre-planned road trip through some of our favorite small towns in Oregon.

Featured Addresses

Brownsville, OR 97327, USA

This Enchanting And Historic Town In Oregon Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination

Christy Articola

Author

Related Stories

This Is The Most Oregon Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

Hike, Ski, Bike, Soak, Relax, And More At This Amazing Riverfront Mount Hood Village Airbnb

Every Day's My Birthday When I Dine At This Famous Portland Restaurant

Want more Oregon in your inbox?

More to Explore

Oregon Small Towns

Related Articles

Featured Addresses