Oregon is a stunner of a state. With its majestic mountains, lush forests, and sublime shoreline, Oregon is Pacific Northwest living at its best. While Portland is easily the most well-known city in the state, when you're looking for a weekend getaway, sometimes, you want to take the road less traveled. Hood River is one of our favorite Oregon road trips. Hood River is home to some of the PNW's best outdoor recreation, breweries and wineries, and farm-to-table dining. Allow us to be your tour guide; here is the perfect weekend itinerary for exploring Hood River in Oregon:
Hood River is located along the eponymous Oregon river, in the shadow of the state's majestic Mt. Hood.
It's a rather small town, with a population of less than 8,000.
When visiting Hood River, you can't go wrong with a trip to the Columbia Cliff Villas.
These villas are the epitome of rustic luxury, with some of the best views in the area.
In the morning, stop for coffee and a cinnamon roll at Bette's Place.
Dubbed the "friendliest restaurant in town," Bette's Place is known for its crave-worthy cinnamon rolls.
After fueling up, it's time for a day of adventure.
Stop in town and rent bikes for cruising along the coastline.
Prefer hiking? We don't blame you - Hood River has some of the most scenic trails in the state.
We particularly love the Columbia River Gorge trails, which feature some of the most marvelous waterfalls in all of Oregon.
And Mirror Lake is another must-visit trail in Hood River.
There's nothing more breathtaking than seeing Mt. Hood's reflection in the lake.
But if you prefer to take in Mt. Hood in a more relaxing way, opt for a train ride via the iconic Mount Hood Railroad.
This charming passenger train is pure nostalgia and travels through some of Oregon's most beautiful places.
After an action-packed day, unwind with a burger and fries at Bridgeside.
This family dining spot is warm and welcoming, with downright delicious food, and sweeping Columbia River views.
The next day, stroll through Downtown Hood River and do some window shopping.
Stop by Downtown's Broder Øst for a hearty, Scandinavian-style breakfast.
Then it's time to indulge in Hood River's most popular pastime: windsurfing.
Hood River is known as the "windsurfing capital of the world." With the magnificent Columbia Gorge in its front yard, it's not difficult to see why. The wind arises with the sun, creating perfect windsurfing conditions.
These conditions also work for paragliding if you prefer to take flight.
Paragliding over the Hood River is one of those life-changing experiences you can only get in Oregon.
For dinner, head to Solstice Wood Fire Cafe & Bar, for stick-to-your-ribs comfort food in a charming, cozy setting.
Pair your pasta with a glass of Columbia Gorge wine, and relax at this quintessential PNW restaurant.
Before heading out the next day, grab a sandwich from Boda's Kitchen, a gourmet deli that uses fresh, Oregon ingredients.
Boda's Turkey Berry sandwich uses cranberry chutney and tastes like Thanksgiving.
But don't be in too big a hurry to leave.
Hood River is one of the most beautiful towns in Oregon and is a place you'll want to savor.
In fact, the drive out of Hood River is spectacular, especially if you go during the spring when the cherry trees are blossoming.
These trees are truly one of Oregon's most delightful natural wonders.
Hood River is utterly wonderful, and one of our very favorite weekend getaways in Oregon.
Hood River in Oregon is rugged and rustic; the perfect place to really get away. Do you agree? What other places would you add to our weekend itinerary for exploring Hood River? Oregon is such a beautiful place to visit; after checking out Hood River, you'll definitely want to explore these 11 absolutely stunning spots in the state.
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