Best Oregon Towns for a Fall Colors Road Trip
The magic of the changing fall leaves in Oregon is something that every local knows and loves. As a knowledgable local, it’s time to share some of the best towns to visit in our beautiful state to get the most out of this autumnal spectacle.1. Hood River
Known for its apples and pears, Hood River is already bursting with color in the fall season. Add in the golden hued deciduous trees along the town’s streets and the stunning Columbia River Gorge, and it’s a canvas of autumn beauty. Make sure to visit the Fruit Loop, a scenic drive that weaves through local orchards and wineries.2. Bend
Bend offers breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains speckled with vibrant fall foliage. The locals favor tourists to explore the Deschutes River Trail for the best leaf-peeping experience. Don’t forget to try the seasonal brews at Deschutes Brewery after a long day of exploring.3. Ashland
Home of Oregon’s famous Shakespeare Festival, Ashland is especially beautiful in the fall. Lithia Park, in the heart of the city, is an explosion of reds, oranges, and yellows. Check out the charming downtown and enjoy some local theater!
4. McMinnville
McMinnville is an ideal spot for wine lovers. Fall is also harvest season in Oregon’s wine country and local vineyards like Eyrie and Domaine Drouhin are surrounded by radiant autumn scenery. Main Street is lined with pioneer-era buildings setting a picturesque backdrop of fall colors.5. Silverton
Experience the grandeur of fall colors in Silverton, the gateway to Silver Falls State Park. The park is a showstopper in autumn, with cascading waterfalls framed by vibrant leaves. And don’t miss the quaint downtown area with its murals!6. Astoria
Nestled by the Columbia River, Astoria’s waterside landscape is adorned with a cape of gold, copper and ruby foliage in the fall. The Astoria Column offers panoramic views of the city’s autumn beauty. Visit the charming coffee houses here like Coffee Girl for your caffeine fix.7. Sisters
The small town of Sisters, on the doorstep of the Deschutes National Forest, is surrounded by trees that set the whole area ablaze with color in the fall. Take a scenic drive on McKenzie Highway and be sure to stop by Sisters Coffee Company for a cozy hot beverage.8. Portland
No list of fall foliage would be complete without Portland. Forest Park, the largest urban forest in the US, is a local gem and autumn offers especially stunning views. Stroll through the leaf-strewn streets of the Eastside or drop by Powell’s Books to see how the city’s literary scene complements the fall season.9. Albany
Known as the ‘Hub of the Valley’, Albany is wrapped in fall colors every season. For a unique experience, take a tour of the historic Monteith House surrounded by vibrant fall hues. Albany’s talking water gardens are another must-try experience in the fall season.10. Eugene
Eugene is home to the University of Oregon whose campus is simply a riot of colors in the fall, especially around Knight Library. The town’s Saturday Market, imbued with an infectious energy and a kaleidoscope of fall colors, provides a uniquely Eugene experience.As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, there’s no better way to experience the charm of Oregon than a drive through its small towns. Each one is a unique jewel set amidst the stunning fall backdrop. Explore, savor, and fall in love with Oregon all over again!