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!
If you are planning a weekend getaway to Brownsville, start boning up on your local lingo by watching this video talking about some common words and phrases you'll hear here in Oregon:
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.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!