Summary of Oregon’s Best Small Towns
Astoria
If you’ve seen “The Goonies,” Astoria’s beautiful seaside location may seem familiar. Enjoy incredible water views from the historic pedestrian corridor along the Columbia River on foot or hop on the Astoria Riverfront Trolley for a scenic ride. The downtown area is a vibrant strip filled with Oregon-focused boutiques, seafood restaurants housed in reclaimed canneries, and the nearby Oregon Film Museum. Both Buoy Beer Company and Fort George vie for the title of best brewery in Astoria; however, the former boasts stunning ocean views.
Hood River
Home to the Columbia River Gorge, Cascade Range, and noted as the windsurfing capital of the world, Hood River is undoubtedly among Oregon’s best small towns. This area showcases some of the most magnificent waterfalls in the state. Outdoor enthusiasts, including trekkers, bikers, and water sports aficionados, flock to Hood River. For those seeking culinary delights, the historic downtown features over 30 restaurants, while the surrounding countryside is abundant with vineyards and orchards. Hiyu Wine Farm provides gourmet dishes complemented with lavish seated dinners.
Jacksonville
Located near Medford in southern Oregon, Jacksonville is a picturesque small town and a National Historic Landmark. Founded during the gold rush before Oregon officially became a state, Jacksonville is now known for its annual Britt Music & Arts Festival and numerous antique shops. In summer, the Jacksonville Trolley offers a 45-minute tour exploring the area’s distinctive history and architecture, with a haunted version available in October.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach, located approximately 90 minutes northwest of Portland, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. The convenience of access to the expansive sandy shoreline from a variety of family-oriented beachfront resorts and restaurants enhances its allure. The iconic Haystack Rock serves as a remarkable backdrop and offers tide pools for exploration. Pet owners will appreciate the beach’s dog-friendly policies.
Joseph
In Eastern Oregon, Joseph stands as another remarkable small town. The surrounding Wallowa Mountains give Joseph the nickname “Little Switzerland of America.” Visitors can enjoy Wallowa Lake, renowned for its trophy fish and Eagle Cap Wilderness hiking opportunities for outdoor adventures. The area also features gear outfitters, the Wallowa County Museum, and a seasonal farmers market. For breathtaking views, don’t miss taking a ride on the Wallowa Lake Tramway to the summit of Mount Howard.
Baker City
Baker City is often referred to as the “base camp for Eastern Oregon.” Known for its outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, and whitewater rafting on the Snake River, expect some surprises here. Attractions include the Glacier 45 vodka distillery, a tiny Chinese cemetery, and the historic Geiser Grand Hotel, which dates back to 1889 and still accommodates guests (rumored to be haunted).
Sisters
Sisters, located on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, enjoys near-constant sunshine and is a favorite for rock climbing and hiking enthusiasts. The iconic Three Sisters volcanic peaks in Deschutes National Forest draw attention, while the town itself features 19th-century architecture alongside contemporary art galleries and restaurants. Since 1975, Sisters has proudly hosted the world’s largest outdoor quilt show, attracting thousands.
Yachats
Yachats, positioned on the central Oregon coast, displays unparalleled natural beauty with modern conveniences. Pronounced yah-hots, this quaint town lies between the rugged coastline and expansive Siuslaw National Forest. Hiking and biking are the best ways to explore, with Amanda’s Trail stretching through stunning forest landscapes. Stop by Green Salmon Coffee Company for fair trade coffee and vegan treats before your outdoor adventure.
Silverton
Just 15 miles east of Oregon’s capital, Salem, Silverton is known as Oregon’s Garden City because of the Oregon Garden, which spans 80 acres filled with flowers and parkland. En route to Silver Falls State Park, renowned for its impressive waterfall trail, be sure to check out the town’s numerous vibrant murals. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Gordon House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Florence
Positioned where the central Oregon coast meets the Siuslaw River, Florence is a captivating destination. Renowned coastal attractions include the famous Sea Lion Caves and Heceta Head Lighthouse, along with the nearby Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where sand-crawling vehicles are a prevalent exploration method. The Old Town district and the Siuslaw River Bridge entice visitors with local shopping and seafood dining options, including the Waterfront Depot Restaurant.
Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove, often described as the Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon, features an abundance of these picturesque structures. To see them all, take the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway, which starts downtown and winds for 36 miles through agricultural lands and the Cascade Mountains. The autumn foliage is particularly spectacular along this route. Visitors can enjoy local flavors at Saginaw Vineyard and Coast Fork Brewing.
Mosier
Vino enthusiasts will find Mosier delightful, as this small town is home to Columbia River Gorge wineries. The community boasts three vineyards close enough to explore in a single day. Analemma Wines began as a cherry farm and now offers lavender fields, orchards, and a tasting room. Garnier Vineyards overlooks the Columbia River while producing rosé and pinot noir, and Idiot’s Grace specializes in organic winemaking, with vineyard plots straddling both the Oregon and Washington sides of the river.
