The Small Town Near Portland You’ve Never Heard Of But Will Fall In Love With

With just under 1,000 residents, Aurora is a tiny town. Started as a religious commune in 1856, the city takes its name from that of the founder, Dr. William Keil's daughter. Located on just a half square mile of land, this quaint town is lovely and features plenty of small town charm to make your visit great.

After Dr. Keil's death in 1877, the commune was dissolved.

Today the town is an excellent place for antiquing so be sure to check out the Main Street Mercantile Antique Store, as well as many others, while you are there.

Many old buildings have been repurposed into new shops as well, so be on the lookout for cute shops in unexpected places.

Being so close to wine country, you are able to stop into a couple wineries and try their varietals while you are there. Pheasant Run Winery and Aurora Colony Vineyards both have tasting rooms here.

You are really going to love the slow pace of things in Aurora.

The great views will make you yearn for simpler times in your everyday life.

Still much of the surrounding area is filled with farm land, so it is not surprising to see evidence of that all around.

After a day of shopping, you are going to get hungry, and thankfully, there are plenty of lovely food options here as well. Combine antiquing with dining at Christa's Cafe and Antiques, visit White Rabbit Bakery for vegetarian and vegan selections, or check out the Colony Pub for classic bar food.

Whatever you do, take the time to soak up the beautiful scenery and culture of this small town hiding to the south.

If you go in the fall, the scenery is spectacular, but can you wait that long? This small town is just calling you for a day trip to its quiet streets and friendly faces.

Have you visited this tiny town? Let us know your favorite things about this spot.