Yeah, big cities like Portland tend to take up the bulk of attention in Oregon. But really, it's the small towns that dot the Beaver State that really is the heart of this place. Most of us, even if we grew up in a major metropolis, have roots in smaller communities, where perhaps our grandparents taught us good, old-fashioned values, where everyone knew each other, and where we developed our sense of community. Here are 10 of the most beautiful and charming small towns in Oregon:

1. Shaniko

A century ago this place was a bit of a boom town. Now it's a ghost town, but it remains an intriguing and hauntingly beautiful place to visit.

Learn more about the fascinating town of Shaniko, Oregon in this video from Johnny Joo. If you are looking for things to do in Shaniko, OR there are plenty of historical sites to see and experience in this interesting historic town:

2. Coburg

This town in Lane County has a population of just under 1,100 and is known for its Golden Years parade... Especially great for visiting during the summer. Coburg is a small town in Oregon that will win your heart!

3. Cottage Grove

Make sure to actually get off the freeway and get acquainted with this place's charming downtown. Cottage Grove has been named one of the most charming towns in Oregon, and we totally agree!

4. Depoe Bay

Your quintessential Oregon beach town, Depoe Bay is famous for fishing, chowder, and for being the filming site of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," starring Jack Nicolson. Depoe Bay is a delightful place to visit!

Let's take a look around the beautiful coastal town of Depoe Bay in this video from Adventures of J & K to see the abundance of fun things to do in Depoe Bay, OR:

5. Fossil

Fossil is a tiny town surrounded by the extraordinary scenery of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.

6. Newport

Newport is equal parts touristy beach town and home to working-class fishermen, unloading their booty on the docks. It's also home to some of the best seafood restaurants on the Oregon Coast!

7. Wallowa

This is a small piece of Eastern Oregon's natural beauty. Wallowa is a delight of a town to visit.

8. Cannon Beach

This is a haven for Portlanders who want to spend some time on the coast. And why shouldn't it be? It's got an artistic vibe, mixed with the vast views of the ocean, with Haystack Rock peaking out. Cannon Beach is one of the most beautiful places in all of Oregon.

9. Jacksonville

West of Medford, this community is the epitome of small-town America. Jacksonville is one of the coolest small towns in all of Oregon!

10. Yachats

Yachats is the quintessential Oregon Coast town, full of seafood shacks, weather-worn architecture, incredible beaches, and amazing vistas!

Watch and learn, not only how to pronounce Yachats, but some fun things to do in Yachats, OR in this video from Living On The Oregon Coast:

Have you visited any of these beautiful small towns in Oregon? What are your favorite Oregon small towns? Tell us about them in the comments below! Feeling proud to live in Oregon? You should! Wear your state pride on your sleeve when you check out this unique Oregon apparel collection from Wear Your Roots.

While we are showing our love for charming Oregon towns, check out this list of several of the best small towns in Oregon perfect for a weekend getaway:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/oregon/small-towns-weekend-escape-or/