See what the experts are saying about Oregon. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
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Introduction
You've probably already heard the jokes: Oregonians have webbed feet and they don't tan, they rust. Even people otherwise unfamiliar with Oregon seem to know that it rains a lot here. There's simply no getting around the fact that few states... Continue reading »
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Best dining bets
The Best Dining with a View Chart House (Portland; tel. 503/246-6963): Perched high on a hillside, this restaurant boasts the best view of any restaurant in Portland. The Willamette River is directly below and off in the distance stand Mou... Continue reading »
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The best beaches
Cannon Beach/Ecola State Park: With the massive monolith of Haystack Rock rising up from the low-tide line and the secluded beaches of Ecola State Park just north of town, Cannon Beach offers all the best of the Oregon coast. Oswald West S... Continue reading »
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The best family attractions
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (Portland): With an OMNIMAX theater, a planetarium, a submarine, and loads of hands-on exhibits, this Portland museum is fun for kids and adults alike. Oregon Coast Aquarium (Newport): This is the bigg... Continue reading »
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The best hikes
Cape Lookout Trail: Leading 2.5 miles through dense forests to the tip of this rugged cape on the north Oregon coast, this trail ends high on a cliff above the waters of the Pacific. Far below, gray whales can often be seen lolling in the wav... Continue reading »
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The best historic places to stay
The Benson (Portland; tel. 888/523-6766 or 503/228-2000): With its crystal chandeliers, walnut paneling, and ornate plasterwork ceiling in the lobby, this 1912 vintage hotel is Portland's most elegant lodging. Hotel Elliott (Astoria; tel.... Continue reading »
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The best historic sites
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park (Astoria): This national park comprises numerous historic sites that explorers Lewis and Clark utilized during the winter of 1805-06. The sites are located around the mouth of the Columbia River. Durin... Continue reading »
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The best inns and bed & breakfasts
The Best B&Bs Portland's White House (Portland; tel. 800/272-7131 or 503/287-7131): From the circular drive to the portico reminiscent of that other White House to the grand foyer and spacious guest rooms, everything about this inn is impr... Continue reading »
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The best museums
Portland Art Museum: Although the main focus is on bringing blockbuster, touring shows to town, the Portland Art Museum has an outstanding wing dedicated to contemporary and modern art. The museum also has respectable collections of Native Am... Continue reading »
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The best natural attractions
The Oregon Coast: Rocky headlands, offshore islands and haystack rocks, natural arches, caves full of sea lions, giant sand dunes, and dozens of state parks make this one of the most spectacular coastlines in the country. The only drawback is... Continue reading »
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The best outdoor pursuits
Biking the Oregon Coast: With U.S. 101 clinging to the edge of the continent for much of its route through Oregon, this road has become one of the most popular cycling routes in the Northwest. The entire coast can be done in about a week, but... Continue reading »
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The best family hotels & resorts
Embassy Suites (Portland; tel. 800/EMBASSY or 503/279-9000): Unlike most other Embassy Suites, this is a historic hotel, but it still has those spacious suites that are great for families. Plus, there's a pool and video arcade down in the bas... Continue reading »
