12 Unforgettable Oregon Day Trips, One for Each Month of the Year

Oregon is one of the most beautiful states in the nation, and there’s so much to see and do here that it often feels impossible to see it all! It can be tempting to snuggle up on the couch in the winter or hit the same old favorite spots in the summer, but this year, we'd like to challenge you to try something different. We've come up with 12 different day trips in Oregon - one for every month of the year, and they're located in spots all over the state. Of course, don’t think you have to limit yourself to just one day trip adventure per month! Make this the year you get outdoors and explore new places!

January - Mt. Hood Ski Bowl

Head to Mt. Hood to enjoy the fluffy white stuff while it lasts! If skiing and snowboarding isn't your thing, hit the tubing park. Learn why this charming small town in Oregon is simply the best winter town in the state.

February - Multnomah Falls

The most iconic waterfall in Oregon is well worth a visit any time of year, but in the winter it has an ethereal beauty that can't be beat. You'll also avoid most of the tourists who show up during the summer months, which is always a win. Make sure you've got some proper winter gear before you tackle this snowy scene!

March - Wings & Waves Waterpark, McMinnville

The weather might be drizzy and dreary, but you can still spend the day splashing and swimming. Head to McMinnville and look for the building with the airplane on the roof. You can't miss it.

April - Painted Hills Unit At John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Take a stroll on the boardwalk through the Painted Hills Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds to see some gorgeous geological features and fossils that are up to 39 million years old. A springtime visit ensures that the weather won't be too hot, which is why this is one of the best day trips in Oregon. There's very little shade (as you can see from the photo above!) so be sure to bring some sunnies and a hat.

May - Depoe Bay

You can see whales year-round at Depoe Bay, but if you want to see tons of these magnificent creatures (and their calves), May is the month to visit. The migration from Baja, Mexico to Alaska brings thousands of whales right past the Whale Watching Center. The migration starts in late March and goes through the first part of June. Take a whale-watching tour for an epic day trip in Oregon!

June - Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland

There's nothing like enjoying a Shakespeare play in an outdoor theater. The Shakespeare Festival in Ashland is a Tony Award-winning event, and it gets started in February, but if you want to catch the Green Show, plan your visit from June through September.

July - Crater Lake National Park

The country's deepest, most pristine lake is a true sight to behold. During the summer, you can take a trolley tour around the 33-mile-long Rim Drive, and hop on a ranger-led boat tour that includes a stop on Wizard Island.

August - Bandon

Bandon is one of the coast's most charming little towns. While you're there, make sure to check out Circles in the Sand, an outdoor art installation that appears on the beach for several days every month. Check out all of the amazing things to do in Bandon, Oregon.

September - Smith Rock State Park

The vistas and views at Smith Rock State Park always looks as though they came right out of a storybook. It's a great place to visit year-round, but during fall months the weather is particularly nice, and the climbers are out in droves. If you're not into climbing, bring your binoculars so you can watch.

October - Silver Falls State Park

Take the Trail of Ten Waterfalls to see stunning cascades surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. This state park is jaw-dropping any time of year, but it's especially pretty dressed up in autumn colors.

November - Breitenbush Hot Springs

You can soak here year-round, but when the scenery is covered in a blanket of snow, Breitenbush Hot Springs is a winter wonderland. Leave your cell phone and laptop behind so you can relax and rejuvenate at this special place.

December - Shore Acres State Park

The gardens at Shore Acres State Park are stunning, and there's something in bloom year-round. During the holiday season, the park is filled with colorful twinkle lights and displays.

Depending on where you live in the Beaver State, obviously, some of these are doable as day trips, and others would be overnight adventures. 

Share this article with someone you want to take one of these incredible day trips in Oregon with. Be sure to have all your favorite road trip snacks ready!