8 Oregon Tourist Spots I Tried to Hate (But Ended Up Loving)

Traditionally, the term "tourist spot" has meant a specific place that vacationing tourists like to visit. Typically, these destinations boast some type of historical value or scenic beauty, or is of interest in terms of amusement. However, in current times, the term has become synonymous with places that are overcrowded and, at times, overrated. Every state has such sites, and Oregon is no exception, but I found that many of these tourist hotspots weren’t over-glorified, but instead lived up to their hype. Here are just eight Oregon tourist spots that I really wanted to hate, but I ended up loving instead.

1. The Painted Hills

• Location: Northcentral Oregon
• Known For: Rolling hills of layered, colorful soil

Why It’s Worth Visiting: In addition to learning about the fossils in the area and the scientific explorations gained from research there, the hills themselves are visually stunning, with vivid rings of warm-hued colors circling the mountains.

2. Powell’s City of Books

• Location: Portland
• Known For: Powell’s is the largest independent bookstore in the world.

Why It’s Worth Visiting: In a time when bookstores seem to be disappearing before our eyes, Powell’s has remained strong. It offers both used and new books and keeps its expansive building warm and homelike. 

3. Crater Lake

• Location: Crater Lake National Park in Klamath County
• Known For: Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S.

Why It’s Worth Visiting: Crater Lake’s appearance is unlike any other. It was caused by the collapse of an erupting volcano and fed only by rain and snow, not by rivers or streams. As a result, the water is extremely pure and deep, almost cobalt blue. 

4. Tillamook Creamery

• Location: Tillamook 
• Known For: Ice cream and dairy products

Why It’s Worth Visiting: Tillamook is a famous name in the world of dairy, and this creamery is where it all began. Here, you can take tours of the facility and see how they make their goods, as well as buy (oddly excellent) merchandise in their visitor center. 

5. Cannon Beach

• Location: Northwestern Oregon
• Known For: Haystack Rock and a charming downtown area

Why It’s Worth Visiting: Popularized by its appearance in "The Goonies," this town is one of the most famous on the Oregon Coast. Here, you'll enjoy stunning natural landscapes and subsequent activities, as well as an artsy (but also somewhat chic) downtown with many popular food options. 

6. Multnomah Falls

• Location: Columbia River Gorge
• Known For: Its impressive height and picturesque setting

Why It’s Worth Visiting: Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and is easily one of the most visually stunning and memorable. Luckily, it is fairly easy to visit, does not require a hike, and offers free parking. However, for those who want to hike, there are other options available nearby.

7. The Willamette Valley

• Location: Northwestern Oregon
• Known For: Fertile soil that has led to an abundance of famous vineyards

Why It’s Worth Visiting: With adorable farm stands dotting the roadsides and charming towns with historic downtowns, this valley has long been renowned for its agricultural prowess. It is one of the best areas for wine production in the world.

8. The Portland International Rose Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden

• Location: Portland
• Known For: Large, well-manicured, and beautiful gardens 

Why It’s Worth Visiting: These two famous gardens are neighbors, and both deserve a visit. The Portland International Rose Test Garden is the oldest in the U.S., and the meticulously designed Japanese garden is also a cultural center. 

Are you ready to start planning your next trip to an Oregon hotspot? Try Only In Your State’s itinerary planner. And if you have any suggestions for Oregon destinations that belong on this list, let me know by filling out this nomination form. I'd love to hear from you.